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

Preservation of protein fluorescence in embedded human dendritic cells for targeted 3D light and electron microscopy.

PubMed

Höhn, K; Fuchs, J; Fröber, A; Kirmse, R; Glass, B; Anders-Össwein, M; Walther, P; Kräusslich, H-G; Dietrich, C

2015-08-01

In this study, we present a correlative microscopy workflow to combine detailed 3D fluorescence light microscopy data with ultrastructural information gained by 3D focused ion beam assisted scanning electron microscopy. The workflow is based on an optimized high pressure freezing/freeze substitution protocol that preserves good ultrastructural detail along with retaining the fluorescence signal in the resin embedded specimens. Consequently, cellular structures of interest can readily be identified and imaged by state of the art 3D confocal fluorescence microscopy and are precisely referenced with respect to an imprinted coordinate system on the surface of the resin block. This allows precise guidance of the focused ion beam assisted scanning electron microscopy and limits the volume to be imaged to the structure of interest. This, in turn, minimizes the total acquisition time necessary to conduct the time consuming ultrastructural scanning electron microscope imaging while eliminating the risk to miss parts of the target structure. We illustrate the value of this workflow for targeting virus compartments, which are formed in HIV-pulsed mature human dendritic cells. © 2015 The Authors Journal of Microscopy © 2015 Royal Microscopical Society.

Functional Carbon Nanofibers with Semi-Embedded Titanium Oxide Particles via Electrospinning.

PubMed

Chang, Guoqing; Ullah, Wajid; Hu, Yunfeng; Lin, Liwei; Wang, Xu; Li, Chang-Zhi

2018-05-22

The formulation of optoelectronic components into 1D nanostructures allows the promotion of new materials with multifunctionalities. In this work, it is demonstrated that new synthesis of photocatalytic carbon nanofiber decorated with semi-embedded titanium oxide (TiO 2 ), namely, TiO 2 @carbon fiber, is conveniently accessed through the electrospinning of polyacrylonitrile polymer and TiO 2 particle comixture, and then followed by photon-activated self-erosion to expose the embedded TiO 2 and carbonization. The hybrid nanofibers are characterized by field emission scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and X-ray diffraction analysis. Furthermore, the photocatalytic activities of the resultant fibers are tested with photodegradation of Rhodamine B in aqueous solution, which reveals that the carbon nanofiber with semi-embedded TiO 2 drastically improved catalytic efficiency and recyclability, comparing to those fibers without or with embedded TiO 2 . © 2018 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Method for observation of deembedded sections of fish gonad by scanning electron microscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mao, Lian-Ju

2000-09-01

This article reports a method for examining the intracellular structure of fish gonads using a scanning electron microscope(SEM). The specimen preparation procedure is similar to that for transmission electron microscopy wherein samples cut into semi-thin sections are fixed and embedded in plastic. The embedment matrix was removed by solvents. Risen-free specimens could be observed by SEM. The morphology of matured sperms in the gonad was very clear, and the oocyte internal structures appeared in three-dimensional images. Spheroidal nucleoli and yolk vesicles and several bundles of filaments adhered on the nucleoli could be viewed by SEM for the first time.

Ultra-thin resin embedding method for scanning electron microscopy of individual cells on high and low aspect ratio 3D nanostructures.

PubMed

Belu, A; Schnitker, J; Bertazzo, S; Neumann, E; Mayer, D; Offenhäusser, A; Santoro, F

2016-07-01

The preparation of biological cells for either scanning or transmission electron microscopy requires a complex process of fixation, dehydration and drying. Critical point drying is commonly used for samples investigated with a scanning electron beam, whereas resin-infiltration is typically used for transmission electron microscopy. Critical point drying may cause cracks at the cellular surface and a sponge-like morphology of nondistinguishable intracellular compartments. Resin-infiltrated biological samples result in a solid block of resin, which can be further processed by mechanical sectioning, however that does not allow a top view examination of small cell-cell and cell-surface contacts. Here, we propose a method for removing resin excess on biological samples before effective polymerization. In this way the cells result to be embedded in an ultra-thin layer of epoxy resin. This novel method highlights in contrast to standard methods the imaging of individual cells not only on nanostructured planar surfaces but also on topologically challenging substrates with high aspect ratio three-dimensional features by scanning electron microscopy. © 2016 The Authors Journal of Microscopy © 2016 Royal Microscopical Society.

A new method of preparing embeddment-free sections for transmission electron microscopy: applications to the cytoskeletal framework and other three-dimensional networks.

PubMed

Capco, D G; Krochmalnic, G; Penman, S

1984-05-01

Diethylene glycol distearate is used as a removable embedding medium to produce embeddment -free sections for transmission electron microscopy. The easily cut sections of this material float and form ribbons in a water-filled knife trough and exhibit interference colors that aid in the selection of sections of equal thickness. The images obtained with embeddment -free sections are compared with those from the more conventional epoxy-embedded sections, and illustrate that embedding medium can obscure important biological structures, especially protein filament networks. The embeddment -free section methodology is well suited for morphological studies of cytoskeletal preparations obtained by extraction of cells with nonionic detergent in cytoskeletal stabilizing medium. The embeddment -free section also serves to bridge the very different images afforded by embedded sections and unembedded whole mounts.

Dual-labeling method for electron microscopy to characterize synaptic connectivity using genetically encoded fluorescent reporters in Drosophila

PubMed Central

Tanaka, Nobuaki K.; Dye, Louis; Stopfer, Mark

2010-01-01

Light and electron microscopy (LM and EM) both offer important advantages for characterizing neuronal circuitry in intact brains: LM can reveal the general patterns neurons trace between brain areas, and EM can confirm synaptic connections between identified neurons within a small area. In a few species, genetic labeling with fluorescent proteins has been used with LM to visualize many kinds of neurons and to analyze their morphologies and projection patterns. However, combining these large-scale patterns with the fine detail available in EM analysis has been a technical challenge. To analyze the synaptic connectivity of neurons expressing fluorescent markers with EM, we developed a dual-labeling method for use with pre-embedded brains. In Drosophila expressing genetic labels and also injected with markers we visualized synaptic connections among two populations of neurons in the AL, one of which has been shown to mediate a specific function, odor evoked neural oscillation. PMID:21074556

Silver nanoparticles embedded mesoporous SiO2 nanosphere: an effective anticandidal agent against Candida albicans 077

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Qasim, M.; Singh, Braj R.; Naqvi, A. H.; Paik, P.; Das, D.

2015-07-01

Candida albicans is a diploid fungus that causes common infections such as denture stomatitis, thrush, urinary tract infections, etc. Immunocompromised patients can become severely infected by this fungus. Development of an effective anticandidal agent against this pathogenic fungus, therefore, will be very useful for practical application. In this work, Ag-embedded mesoporous silica nanoparticles (mSiO2@AgNPs) have successfully been synthesized and their anticandidal activities against C. albicans have been studied. The mSiO2@AgNPs nanoparticles (d ˜ 400 nm) were designed using pre-synthesized Ag nanoparticles and tetraethyl orthosilicate (TEOS) as a precursor for SiO2 in the presence of cetyltrimethyl ammonium bromide (CTAB) as an easily removable soft template. A simple, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly approach has been adopted to synthesize silver (Ag) nanoparticles using silver nitrate and leaf extract of Azadirachta indica. The mesopores, with size-equivalent diameter of the micelles (d = 4-6 nm), were generated on the SiO2 surface by calcination after removal of the CTAB template. The morphology and surface structure of mSiO2@AgNPs were characterized through x-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), particle size analysis (PSA), atomic force microscopy (AFM), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET) and high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM). The HRTEM micrograph reveals the well-ordered mesoporous structure of the SiO2 sphere. The antifungal activities of mSiO2@AgNPs on the C. albicans cell have been studied through microscopy and are seen to increase with increasing dose of mSiO2@AgNPs, suggesting mSiO2@AgNPs to be a potential antifungal agent for C. albicans 077.

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.

A novel permeabilization protocol to obtain intracellular 3D immunolabeling for electron tomography.

PubMed

Jiménez, Nuria; Post, Jan A

2014-01-01

Electron tomography (ET) is a very important high-resolution tool for 3D imaging in cell biology. By combining the technique with immunolabeling, ET can provide essential insights into both cellular architecture and dynamics. We recently developed a protocol to achieve 3D immunolabeling of intracellular antigens without the need for uncontrolled permeabilization steps that cause random, extensive cell membrane disruption. Here we describe this novel method based on well-controlled permeabilization by targeted laser cell perforation. Mechanical permeabilization of the plasma membrane can be applied at specific sites without affecting other parts of the plasma membrane and intracellular membranes. Despite the relatively small opening created in the plasma membrane, the method allows specific 3D immunolocalization of cytoplasmic antigens in cultured cells by a pre-embedment protocol. The approach is unique and leads to a superior ultrastructural preservation for transmission electron microscopy and electron tomography.

A new method of preparing embeddment-free sections for transmission electron microscopy: applications to the cytoskeletal framework and other three-dimensional networks

PubMed Central

1984-01-01

Diethylene glycol distearate is used as a removable embedding medium to produce embeddment -free sections for transmission electron microscopy. The easily cut sections of this material float and form ribbons in a water-filled knife trough and exhibit interference colors that aid in the selection of sections of equal thickness. The images obtained with embeddment -free sections are compared with those from the more conventional epoxy-embedded sections, and illustrate that embedding medium can obscure important biological structures, especially protein filament networks. The embeddment -free section methodology is well suited for morphological studies of cytoskeletal preparations obtained by extraction of cells with nonionic detergent in cytoskeletal stabilizing medium. The embeddment -free section also serves to bridge the very different images afforded by embedded sections and unembedded whole mounts. PMID:6539336

In situ flat embedding of monolayers and cell relocation in the acrylic resin LR white for comparative light and electron microscopy studies.

PubMed

Steiner, M; Schöfer, C; Mosgoeller, W

1994-12-01

A simple and reliable method has been developed for the in situ LR White embedding of cell monolayers grown on glass cover-slips. Combined with cytochemical or immunological procedures, this technique allows light and/or electron microscopy investigations of a large number of cells in the same horizontal plane within a relatively short period of time. It can be applied to cells grown on microgrid finder cover-slips which allows a distinct site of even an individual cell of a monolayer to be studied at first at the light microscope level and subsequently at the electron microscope level. Hence, it is also suitable for controlling manipulation of single cells, followed by their serial sectioning after relocation in the electron microscope.

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

Song, Jiaming; Hudak, Bethany M.; Sims, Hunter

One-dimensional (1D) nanostructures are highly sought after, both for their novel electronic properties as well as for their improved functionality. However, due to their nanoscale dimensions, these properties are significantly affected by the environment in which they are embedded. Here in this paper, we report on the creation of 1D homo-endotaxial Si nanostructures, i.e. 1D Si nanostructures with a lattice structure that is uniquely different from the Si diamond lattice in which they are embedded. We use scanning tunneling microscopy and spectroscopy, scanning transmission electron microscopy, density functional theory, and conductive atomic force microscopy to elucidate their formation and properties.more » Depending on kinetic constraints during growth, they can be prepared as endotaxial 1D Si nanostructures completely embedded in crystalline Si, or underneath a stripe of amorphous Si containing a large concentration of Bi atoms. Lastly, these homo-endotaxial 1D Si nanostructures have the potential to be useful components in nanoelectronic devices based on the technologically mature Si platform.« less

Homo-endotaxial one-dimensional Si nanostructures

DOE PAGES

Song, Jiaming; Hudak, Bethany M.; Sims, Hunter; ...

2017-11-29

One-dimensional (1D) nanostructures are highly sought after, both for their novel electronic properties as well as for their improved functionality. However, due to their nanoscale dimensions, these properties are significantly affected by the environment in which they are embedded. Here in this paper, we report on the creation of 1D homo-endotaxial Si nanostructures, i.e. 1D Si nanostructures with a lattice structure that is uniquely different from the Si diamond lattice in which they are embedded. We use scanning tunneling microscopy and spectroscopy, scanning transmission electron microscopy, density functional theory, and conductive atomic force microscopy to elucidate their formation and properties.more » Depending on kinetic constraints during growth, they can be prepared as endotaxial 1D Si nanostructures completely embedded in crystalline Si, or underneath a stripe of amorphous Si containing a large concentration of Bi atoms. Lastly, these homo-endotaxial 1D Si nanostructures have the potential to be useful components in nanoelectronic devices based on the technologically mature Si platform.« less

Visualization of Neutrophil Extracellular Traps and Fibrin Meshwork in Human Fibrinopurulent Inflammatory Lesions: II. Ultrastructural Study

PubMed Central

Onouchi, Takanori; Shiogama, Kazuya; Matsui, Takahiro; Mizutani, Yasuyoshi; Sakurai, Kouhei; Inada, Ken-ichi; Tsutsumi, Yutaka

2016-01-01

Neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) represent an extracellular, spider’s web-like structure resulting from cell death of neutrophils. NETs play an important role in innate immunity against microbial infection, but their roles in human pathological processes remain largely unknown. NETs and fibrin meshwork both showing fibrillar structures are observed at the site of fibrinopurulent inflammation, as described in our sister paper [Acta Histochem. Cytochem. 49; 109–116, 2016]. In the present study, immunoelectron microscopic study was performed for visualizing NETs and fibrin fibrils (thick fibrils in our tongue) in formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded sections of autopsied lung tissue of legionnaire’s pneumonia. Lactoferrin and fibrinogen gamma chain were utilized as markers of NETs and fibrin, respectively. Analysis of immuno-scanning electron microscopy indicated that NETs constructed thin fibrils and granular materials were attached onto the NETs fibrils. The smooth-surfaced fibrin fibrils were much thicker than the NETs fibrils. Pre-embedding immunoelectron microscopy demonstrated that lactoferrin immunoreactivities were visible as dots on the fibrils, whereas fibrinogen gamma chain immunoreactivities were homogeneously observed throughout the fibrils. Usefulness of immunoelectron microscopic analysis of NETs and fibrin fibrils should be emphasized. PMID:27682015

Rethinking cell structure.

PubMed Central

Penman, S

1995-01-01

Cell structure, emerging from behind the veil of conventional electron microscopy, appears far more complex than formerly realized. The standard plastic-embedded, ultrathin section can image only what is on the section surface and masks the elaborate networks of the cytoplasm and nucleus. Embedment-free electron microscopy gives clear, high-contrast micrographs of cell structure when combined with removal of obscuring material such as soluble proteins. The resinless ultrathin section is the technique of choice; it is simple and inexpensive, and it uses ordinary electron microscopes. The resulting pictures reveal a world of complex cell structure and function. These images necessarily change our conception of the cytoskeleton, nuclear matrix, mitosis, and the relation of membranes to cytostructure. Images Fig. 1 Fig. 2 Fig. 3 Fig. 4 Fig. 5 Fig. 6 PMID:7777493

7A projection map of the S-layer protein sbpA obtained with trehalose-embedded monolayer crystals.

PubMed

Norville, Julie E; Kelly, Deborah F; Knight, Thomas F; Belcher, Angela M; Walz, Thomas

2007-12-01

Two-dimensional crystallization on lipid monolayers is a versatile tool to obtain structural information of proteins by electron microscopy. An inherent problem with this approach is to prepare samples in a way that preserves the crystalline order of the protein array and produces specimens that are sufficiently flat for high-resolution data collection at high tilt angles. As a test specimen to optimize the preparation of lipid monolayer crystals for electron microscopy imaging, we used the S-layer protein sbpA, a protein with potential for designing arrays of both biological and inorganic materials with engineered properties for a variety of nanotechnology applications. Sugar embedding is currently considered the best method to prepare two-dimensional crystals of membrane proteins reconstituted into lipid bilayers. We found that using a loop to transfer lipid monolayer crystals to an electron microscopy grid followed by embedding in trehalose and quick-freezing in liquid ethane also yielded the highest resolution images for sbpA lipid monolayer crystals. Using images of specimens prepared in this way we could calculate a projection map of sbpA at 7A resolution, one of the highest resolution projection structures obtained with lipid monolayer crystals to date.

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.

Araldite as an Embedding Medium for Electron Microscopy

PubMed Central

Glauert, Audrey M.; Glauert, R. H.

1958-01-01

Epoxy resins are suitable media for embedding for electron microscopy, as they set uniformly with virtually no shrinkage. A mixture of araldite epoxy resins has been developed which is soluble in ethanol, and which yields a block of the required hardness for thin sectioning. The critical modifications to the conventional mixtures are the choice of a plasticized resin in conjunction with an aliphatic anhydride as the hardener. The hardness of the final block can be varied by incorporating additional plasticizer, and the rate of setting can be controlled by the use of an amine accelerator. The properties of the araldite mixture can be varied quite widely by adjusting the proportions of the various constituents. The procedure for embedding biological specimens is similar to that employed with methacrylates, although longer soaking times are recommended to ensure the complete penetration of the more viscous epoxy resin. An improvement in the preservation of the fine structure of a variety of specimens has already been reported, and a typical electron microgram illustrates the present paper. PMID:13525433

Effect of pre-strain on precipitation and exfoliation corrosion resistance in an Al-Zn-Mg alloy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lu, Xianghan; Du, Zhiwei; Han, Xiaolei; Li, Ting; Wang, Guojun; Lu, Liying; Bai, Xiaoxia; Zhou, Tietao

2017-12-01

To investigate the effect of pre-strain on behaviors in a specially developed Al-4.5Zn-1.2Mg alloy, transmission electron microscopy (TEM) bright field (BF) imaging combined with select area electron diffraction (SAED), Vickers-hardness tests and electrical conductivity tests was conducted for insight into precipitation in aluminum (Al) matrix during two step ageing, and standard exfoliation corrosion (EXCO) test combined with high-angle angular dark field scanning transmission electron microscopy (HAADF-STEM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was carried out for corrosion behavior. Results showed that pre-strain accelerated precipitation during two step ageing as the sequence of: (i) supersaturated solid solution (SSS), GPI zones precipitations, GPI dissolution; (ii) SSS, fcc precipitates, η’ phases or η phases. And the precipitation hardening of the fcc precipitates was not effective as GPI zones. Pre-strain also accelerated EXCO developing, which was mainly attributed to the coverage ratio of η phases on high-angle grain boundaries (HAGBs) increasing as pre-strain increase.

Comparison of selective staining of fungi in paraffin sections by light microscopy, SEM and BEI

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

Berman, E.L.; Laudate, A.; Carter, H.W.

Paraffin-embedded sections from human tissues with fungi or organisms classified with fungi were studied by light microscopy (LM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and the backscatter electron imaging (BEI) mode of the SEM. The fungal organisms selected for study were those familiar to the pathologist on the basis of their appearance in paraffin-embedded material stained with the Gomori-Grocott Chromic Acid Methenamine Silver Stain (GMS). The organisms were Actinomyces, Rhizopus, Cryptococcus, Histoplasma capsulatum, and Coccidia imitis. Sections were stained with the GMS Stain and/or the Becker modification of the GMS Stain (BGMS) and examined in the secondary electron imaging mode (SEI) andmore » BEI mode with an annular backscatter electron detector. This silver staining technique accentuated the wall of fungal organisms, in the backscatter mode. Depending on the fungal organism and type of silver stain employed, the GMS seemed the preferable stain. The advantages of SEM over LM were greater depth of focus and potential range of magnifications. BEI may also be used in conjunction with LM stain for microorganisms to establish their presence.« less

Antibiotic loading and release studies of LSMO nanoparticles embedded in an acrylic polymer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Biswas, Sonali; Keshri, Sunita; Goswami, Sudipta; Isaac, Jinu; Ganguly, Swastika; Perov, Nikolai

2016-12-01

In this paper, we present the drug loading and release works of ? (LSMO) manganite nanoparticles (NPs). The LSMO NPs, grown using the sol-gel method, were embedded in an acrylic interpenetrating polymer network to make the sample applicable for biomedical purposes. The results of scanning electron microscopy showed that these NPs were well dispersed in the polymer. The grain size of these NPs lies in the range of 25-45 nm, as confirmed by transmission electron microscopy. The measurements of DC magnetization and hysteresis loops reveal that the basic magnetic behaviour of the LSMO NPs remained almost unaltered even after embedding in polymer, but with lower saturation value of magnetization. The drug loading and release studies of the grown sample were carried out using an antibiotic, ciprofloxacin. The minimum inhibitory effect of the sample loaded with this drug has exhibited high activity against different strains of bacteria, comparable to the pure ciprofloxacin.

Airborne asbestos in Colorado public schools.

PubMed

Chadwick, D A; Buchan, R M; Beaulieu, H J

1985-02-01

Levels of airborne asbestos for six Colorado public school facilities with sprayed-on asbestos materials were documented using three analytical techniques. Phase contrast microscopy showed levels up to the thousandths of a fiber per cubic centimeter (f/cc), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) up to the hundredths of a f/cc, and transmission electron microscopy coupled to selected area electron diffraction and energy dispersive X-ray analysis (TEM-SAED-EDXA) up to the tenths of an asbestos f/cc. Phase contrast microscopy was found to be an inadequate analytical technique for documenting the levels of airborne asbestos fibers in the schools: only large fibers which were not embedded in the filter were counted, and asbestos fibers were not distinguished from nonasbestos.

Nano-fEM: protein localization using photo-activated localization microscopy and electron microscopy.

PubMed

Watanabe, Shigeki; Richards, Jackson; Hollopeter, Gunther; Hobson, Robert J; Davis, Wayne M; Jorgensen, Erik M

2012-12-03

Mapping the distribution of proteins is essential for understanding the function of proteins in a cell. Fluorescence microscopy is extensively used for protein localization, but subcellular context is often absent in fluorescence images. Immuno-electron microscopy, on the other hand, can localize proteins, but the technique is limited by a lack of compatible antibodies, poor preservation of morphology and because most antigens are not exposed to the specimen surface. Correlative approaches can acquire the fluorescence image from a whole cell first, either from immuno-fluorescence or genetically tagged proteins. The sample is then fixed and embedded for electron microscopy, and the images are correlated (1-3). However, the low-resolution fluorescence image and the lack of fiducial markers preclude the precise localization of proteins. Alternatively, fluorescence imaging can be done after preserving the specimen in plastic. In this approach, the block is sectioned, and fluorescence images and electron micrographs of the same section are correlated (4-7). However, the diffraction limit of light in the correlated image obscures the locations of individual molecules, and the fluorescence often extends beyond the boundary of the cell. Nano-resolution fluorescence electron microscopy (nano-fEM) is designed to localize proteins at nano-scale by imaging the same sections using photo-activated localization microscopy (PALM) and electron microscopy. PALM overcomes the diffraction limit by imaging individual fluorescent proteins and subsequently mapping the centroid of each fluorescent spot (8-10). We outline the nano-fEM technique in five steps. First, the sample is fixed and embedded using conditions that preserve the fluorescence of tagged proteins. Second, the resin blocks are sectioned into ultrathin segments (70-80 nm) that are mounted on a cover glass. Third, fluorescence is imaged in these sections using the Zeiss PALM microscope. Fourth, electron dense structures are imaged in these same sections using a scanning electron microscope. Fifth, the fluorescence and electron micrographs are aligned using gold particles as fiducial markers. In summary, the subcellular localization of fluorescently tagged proteins can be determined at nanometer resolution in approximately one week.

Magnetic {Mo72Fe30}-embedded hybrid nanocapsules.

PubMed

Cui, Jiwei; Fan, Dawei; Hao, Jingcheng

2009-02-15

Magnetic nanocapsules were constructed by fabricating nanometer scaled C(60)-like "Keplerate" type {Mo(72)Fe(30)} with molecular formula [Mo(72)(VI)Fe(30)(III)O(252)(CH(3)COO)(12){Mo(2)O(7)(H(2)O)}(2){H(2)Mo(2)O(8)(H(2)O)}(H(2)O)(91)] x ca.150 H(2)O into nanocapsule shells using the LbL technique. The morphology of the obtained hybrid nanocapsules was examined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Shell thickness of the {Mo(72)Fe(30)}-embedded nanocapsules can be tailored at the nanometer level more precisely than other nanoparticle-embedded capsules due to the homogeneous diameter and surface charges of {Mo(72)Fe(30)}. Interestingly, the {Mo(72)Fe(30)}-embedded nanocapsules could be separated and aligned under a circumstance of magnetic field, though {Mo(72)Fe(30)} is a paramagnetic molecule. This is the first time to fabricate hybrid magnetic materials containing {Mo(72)Fe(30)} using LbL technique. The obtained nanocapsules can be a good candidate for bioseparation as well as targeted delivery.

Imparting functionality to biocatalysts via embedding enzymes into nanoporous materials by a de novo approach: size-selective sheltering of catalase in metal-organic framework microcrystals.

PubMed

Shieh, Fa-Kuen; Wang, Shao-Chun; Yen, Chia-I; Wu, Chang-Cheng; Dutta, Saikat; Chou, Lien-Yang; Morabito, Joseph V; Hu, Pan; Hsu, Ming-Hua; Wu, Kevin C-W; Tsung, Chia-Kuang

2015-04-08

We develop a new concept to impart new functions to biocatalysts by combining enzymes and metal-organic frameworks (MOFs). The proof-of-concept design is demonstrated by embedding catalase molecules into uniformly sized ZIF-90 crystals via a de novo approach. We have carried out electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, nitrogen sorption, electrophoresis, thermogravimetric analysis, and confocal microscopy to confirm that the ~10 nm catalase molecules are embedded in 2 μm single-crystalline ZIF-90 crystals with ~5 wt % loading. Because catalase is immobilized and sheltered by the ZIF-90 crystals, the composites show activity in hydrogen peroxide degradation even in the presence of protease proteinase K.

Minimal resin embedding of multicellular specimens for targeted FIB-SEM imaging.

PubMed

Schieber, Nicole L; Machado, Pedro; Markert, Sebastian M; Stigloher, Christian; Schwab, Yannick; Steyer, Anna M

2017-01-01

Correlative light and electron microscopy (CLEM) is a powerful tool to perform ultrastructural analysis of targeted tissues or cells. The large field of view of the light microscope (LM) enables quick and efficient surveys of the whole specimen. It is also compatible with live imaging, giving access to functional assays. CLEM protocols take advantage of the features to efficiently retrace the position of targeted sites when switching from one modality to the other. They more often rely on anatomical cues that are visible both by light and electron microscopy. We present here a simple workflow where multicellular specimens are embedded in minimal amounts of resin, exposing their surface topology that can be imaged by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). LM and SEM both benefit from a large field of view that can cover whole model organisms. As a result, targeting specific anatomic locations by focused ion beam-SEM (FIB-SEM) tomography becomes straightforward. We illustrate this application on three different model organisms, used in our laboratory: the zebrafish embryo Danio rerio, the marine worm Platynereis dumerilii, and the dauer larva of the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans. Here we focus on the experimental steps to reduce the amount of resin covering the samples and to image the specimens inside an FIB-SEM. We expect this approach to have widespread applications for volume electron microscopy on multiple model organisms. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Post-embedding tem signal-to-noise ratio of S-100

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Fermin, C. D.; Lee, D. H.; Martin, D.

1994-01-01

We assessed the reactivity of purified S-100 antiserum in immuno-electron microscopy by counting the number of gold particles per microns 2 over inner ear tissues embedded in different media. Sections containing predominantly Schwann's cell cytoplasm and nucleus, afferent fiber axoplasm and myelin sheath of chick cochleae were reacted with anti-S-100 IgG, an antibody to a calcium binding protein of neuronal tissues, then labeled with anti-IgG-gold conjugate. This investigation was conducted because previously published procedures, unmodified, did not yield acceptable results. Preparation of all specimens was identical. Only the medium (PolyBed 812, Araldite or Spurr epoxies; and LR White, LR Gold or Lowicryl plastics) was changed. The medium was made the changing variable because antigens available in post-embedding immuno-electron microscopy are decreased by heat, either used and/or released during polymerization of the embedding medium. The results indicate that: (a) none of the embedding media above provided optimal signal-to-noise ratio for all parts of the nerve stained in the same section; (b) aggregation of gold particles over cells was highest in embedding media with high background labeling over areas devoid of tissue (noise); (c) aggregation occurred randomly throughout both cellular and acellular regions; and (d) particles aggregated less and were distributed more evenly in tissues from media yielding good ultrastructural integrity.

Freezing without Ice Crystal Damage: Semithin and Ultrathin Frozen Sections of Ethanol-Infiltrated Tissue for Microscopy, with Applications to Immunocytochemistry

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Christensen, A. Kent; Lowry, Terry B.

1995-10-01

Ethanol (ethyl alcohol) has long been a standard reagent used in preparing tissues for light and electron microscopy. After fixation, tissues are usually dehydrated with ethanol before being embedded in paraffin or plastic. In this study we show that the ethanol-infiltrated tissue can be frozen and sectioned directly without embedding. When tissue impregnated with ethanol is cooled below about [minus sign]117°C with liquid nitrogen, the ethanol solidifies without appreciable crystallization. The frozen tissue can then be sectioned in a commercial cryoultramicrotome that is set at [minus sign]155 to [minus sign]170°C to produce semithin frozen sections (0.5 to 3 [mu]m thick) for light microscopy or ultrathin frozen sections (50 to 100 nm thick) for electron microscopy. Sections are picked up and mounted on glass slides or EM grids by means that are in current use for ice ultrathin frozen sectioning. Because there is no apparent freezing damage, the morphology in these ethanol frozen sections of unembedded tissue appears generally quite good, often resembling that obtained by conventional EM techniques. Examples are provided that illustrate the use of this material for immunocytochemistry at the light and electron microscope levels.

New Insights on Subsurface Imaging of Carbon Nanotubes in Polymer Composites via Scanning Electron Microscopy

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Zhao, Minhua; Ming, Bin; Kim, Jae-Woo; Gibbons, Luke J.; Gu, Xiaohong; Nguyen, Tinh; Park, Cheol; Lillehei, Peter T.; Villarrubia, J. S.; Vladar, Andras E.;

Grinding and polishing instead of sectioning for the tissue samples with a graft: Implications for light and electron microscopy.

PubMed

Mukhamadiyarov, Rinat A; Sevostyanova, Victoria V; Shishkova, Daria K; Nokhrin, Andrey V; Sidorova, Olga D; Kutikhin, Anton G

2016-06-01

A broad use of the graft replacement requires a detailed investigation of the host-graft interaction, including both histological examination and electron microscopy. A high quality sectioning of the host tissue with a graft seems to be complicated; in addition, it is difficult to examine the same tissue area by both of the mentioned microscopy techniques. To solve these problems, we developed a new technique of epoxy resin embedding with the further grinding, polishing, and staining. Graft-containing tissues prepared by grinding and polishing preserved their structure; however, sectioning frequently required the explantation of the graft and led to tissue disintegration. Moreover, stained samples prepared by grinding and polishing may then be assessed by both light microscopy and backscattered scanning electron microscopy. Therefore, grinding and polishing outperform sectioning when applied to the tissues with a graft. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Correlative Fluorescence and Electron Microscopy in 3D-Scanning Electron Microscope Perspective.

PubMed

Franks, Jonathan; Wallace, Callen T; Shibata, Masateru; Suga, Mitsuo; Erdman, Natasha; Stolz, Donna B; Watkins, Simon C

2017-04-03

The ability to correlate fluorescence microscopy (FM) and electron microscopy (EM) data obtained on biological (cell and tissue) specimens is essential to bridge the resolution gap between the data obtained by these different imaging techniques. In the past such correlations were limited to either EM navigation in two dimensions to the locations previously highlighted by fluorescence markers, or subsequent high-resolution acquisition of tomographic information using a TEM. We present a novel approach whereby a sample previously investigated by FM is embedded and subjected to sequential mechanical polishing and backscatter imaging by scanning electron microscope. The resulting three dimensional EM tomogram of the sample can be directly correlated to the FM data. © 2017 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Inc.

Avoiding artefacts during electron microscopy of silver nanomaterials exposed to biological environments

PubMed Central

Goode, Angela E.; Skepper, Jeremy N.; Thorley, Andrew J.; Seiffert, Joanna M.; Chung, K. Fan; Tetley, Teresa D.; Shaffer, Milo S. P.; Ryan, Mary P.

2015-01-01

Electron microscopy has been applied widely to study the interaction of nanomaterials with proteins, cells and tissues at nanometre scale. Biological material is most commonly embedded in thermoset resins to make it compatible with the high vacuum in the electron microscope. Room temperature sample preparation protocols developed over decades provide contrast by staining cell organelles, and aim to preserve the native cell structure. However, the effect of these complex protocols on the nanomaterials in the system is seldom considered. Any artefacts generated during sample preparation may ultimately interfere with the accurate prediction of the stability and reactivity of the nanomaterials. As a case study, we review steps in the room temperature preparation of cells exposed to silver nanomaterials (AgNMs) for transmission electron microscopy imaging and analysis. In particular, embedding and staining protocols, which can alter the physicochemical properties of AgNMs and introduce artefacts thereby leading to a misinterpretation of silver bioreactivity, are scrutinised. Recommendations are given for the application of cryogenic sample preparation protocols, which simultaneously fix both particles and diffusible ions. By being aware of the advantages and limitations of different sample preparation methods, compromises or selection of different correlative techniques can be made to draw more accurate conclusions about the data. PMID:25606708

A simple method for orienting silk and other flexible fibres in transmission electron microscopy specimens.

PubMed

Trancik, J E; Czernuszka, J T; Merriman, C; Viney, C

2001-09-01

When microstructures are characterized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), the interpretation of results is facilitated if the material can be sectioned in defined orientations. In the case of fibres, it is especially useful if transverse and longitudinal sections can be obtained reliably. Here we describe a procedure for orienting spider silk and other flexible fibres for TEM investigation. Prior to embedding in epoxy resin, the silk is wound around a notched support made from polyester film. No glue is required. After the silk and its supporting film have been embedded and the resin has been cured the film can be peeled away to reveal nearly perfectly orientated silk threads. Both transverse and longitudinal sections can then be cut with a microtome. The method can be extended to obtain sections at any intermediate orientation.

High-resolution imaging by scanning electron microscopy of semithin sections in correlation with light microscopy.

PubMed

Koga, Daisuke; Kusumi, Satoshi; Shodo, Ryusuke; Dan, Yukari; Ushiki, Tatsuo

2015-12-01

In this study, we introduce scanning electron microscopy (SEM) of semithin resin sections. In this technique, semithin sections were adhered on glass slides, stained with both uranyl acetate and lead citrate, and observed with a backscattered electron detector at a low accelerating voltage. As the specimens are stained in the same manner as conventional transmission electron microscopy (TEM), the contrast of SEM images of semithin sections was similar to TEM images of ultrathin sections. Using this technique, wide areas of semithin sections were also observed by SEM, without the obstruction of grids, which was inevitable for traditional TEM. This study also applied semithin section SEM to correlative light and electron microscopy. Correlative immunofluorescence microscopy and immune-SEM were performed in semithin sections of LR white resin-embedded specimens using a FluoroNanogold-labeled secondary antibody. Because LR white resin is hydrophilic and electron stable, this resin is suitable for immunostaining and SEM observation. Using correlative microscopy, the precise localization of the primary antibody was demonstrated by fluorescence microscopy and SEM. This method has great potential for studies examining the precise localization of molecules, including Golgi- and ER-associated proteins, in correlation with LM and SEM. © 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.

Visualization of Neutrophil Extracellular Traps and Fibrin Meshwork in Human Fibrinopurulent Inflammatory Lesions: III. Correlative Light and Electron Microscopic Study

PubMed Central

Onouchi, Takanori; Shiogama, Kazuya; Mizutani, Yasuyoshi; Takaki, Takashi; Tsutsumi, Yutaka

2016-01-01

Neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) released from dead neutrophils at the site of inflammation represent webs of neutrophilic DNA stretches dotted with granule-derived antimicrobial proteins, including lactoferrin, and play important roles in innate immunity against microbial infection. We have shown the coexistence of NETs and fibrin meshwork in varied fibrinopurulent inflammatory lesions at both light and electron microscopic levels. In the present study, correlative light and electron microscopy (CLEM) employing confocal laser scanning microscopy and scanning electron microscopy was performed to bridge light and electron microscopic images of NETs and fibrin fibrils in formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded, autopsied lung sections of legionnaire’s pneumonia. Lactoferrin immunoreactivity and 4'-6-diamidino-2-phenylindole (DAPI) reactivity were used as markers of NETs, and fibrin was probed by fibrinogen gamma chain. Of note is that NETs light microscopically represented as lactoferrin and DAPI-colocalized dots, 2.5 μm in diameter. CLEM gave super-resolution images of NETs and fibrin fibrils: “Dotted” NETs were ultrastructurally composed of fine filaments and masses of 58 nm-sized globular materials. A fibrin fibril consisted of clusters of smooth-surfaced filaments. NETs filaments (26 nm in diameter) were significantly thinner than fibrin filaments (295 nm in diameter). Of note is that CLEM was applicable to formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded sections of autopsy material. PMID:27917008

Immunocytochemistry by electron spectroscopic imaging using well defined boronated monovalent antibody fragments.

PubMed

Kessels, M M; Qualmann, B; Sierralta, W D

1996-01-01

Contributing to the rapidly developing field of immunoelectron microscopy a new kind of markers has been created. The element boron, incorporated as very stable carborane clusters into different kinds of peptides, served as a marker detectable by electron spectroscopic imaging (ESI)--an electron microscopic technique with high-resolution potential. Covalently linked immunoreagents conspicuous by the small size of both antigen recognizing part and marker moiety are accessible by using peptide concepts for label construction and their conjugation with Fab' fragments. Due to a specific labeling of the free thiol groups of the Fab' fragments, the antigen binding capacity was not affected by the attachment of the markers and the resulting immunoprobes exhibited an elongated shape with the antigen combining site and the label located at opposite ends. The labeling densities observed with these reagents were found to be significantly higher than those obtained by using conventional colloidal gold methods. Combined with digital image processing and analysis systems, boron-based ESI proved to be a powerful approach in ultrastructural immunocytochemistry employing pre- and post-embedding methods.

An historical account of the development and applications of the negative staining technique to the electron microscopy of viruses.

PubMed

Horne, R W; Wildy, P

1979-09-01

A brief historical account of the development and applications of the negative staining techniques to the study of the structure of viruses and their components as observed in the electron microscope is presented. Although the basic method of surrounding or embedding specimens in opaque dyes was used in light microscopy dating from about 1884, the equivalent preparative techniques applied to electron microscopy were comparatively recent. The combination of experiments on a sophisticated bacterial virus and the installation of a high resolution electron microscope in the Cavendish Laboratory, Cambridge, during 1954, subsequently led to the analysis of several important morphological features of animal, plant and bacterial viruses. The implications of the results from these early experiments on viruses and recent developments in negative staining methods for high resolution image analysis of electron micrographs are also discussed.

Consecutive light microscopy, scanning-transmission electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy of traumatic human brain oedema and ischaemic brain damage.

PubMed

Castejon, O J; Castejon, H V; Diaz, M; Castellano, A

2001-10-01

Cortical biopsies of 11 patients with traumatic brain oedema were consecutively studied by light microscopy (LM) using thick plastic sections, scanning-transmission electron microscopy ((S)TEM) using semithin plastic sections and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) using ultrathin sections. Samples were glutaraldehyde-osmium fixed and embedded in Araldite or Epon. Thick sections were stained with toluidine-blue for light microscopy. Semithin sections were examined unstained and uncoated for (S)TEM. Ultrathin sections were stained with uranyl and lead. Perivascular haemorrhages and perivascular extravasation of proteinaceous oedema fluid were observed in both moderate and severe oedema. Ischaemic pyramidal and non-pyramidal nerve cells appeared shrunken, electron dense and with enlargement of intracytoplasmic membrane compartment. Notably swollen astrocytes were observed in all samples examined. Glycogen-rich and glycogen-depleted astrocytes were identified in anoxic-ischaemic regions. Dark and hydropic satellite, interfascicular and perivascular oligodendrocytes were also found. The status spongiosus of severely oedematous brain parenchyma observed by LM and (S)TEM was correlated with the enlarged extracellular space and disrupted neuropil observed by TEM. The (S)TEM is recommended as a suitable technique for studying pathological processes in the central nervous system and as an informative adjunct to LM and TEM.

Fixation methods for electron microscopy of human and other liver

PubMed Central

Wisse, Eddie; Braet, Filip; Duimel, Hans; Vreuls, Celien; Koek, Ger; Olde Damink, Steven WM; van den Broek, Maartje AJ; De Geest, Bart; Dejong, Cees HC; Tateno, Chise; Frederik, Peter

2010-01-01

For an electron microscopic study of the liver, expertise and complicated, time-consuming processing of hepatic tissues and cells is needed. The interpretation of electron microscopy (EM) images requires knowledge of the liver fine structure and experience with the numerous artifacts in fixation, embedding, sectioning, contrast staining and microscopic imaging. Hence, the aim of this paper is to present a detailed summary of different methods for the preparation of hepatic cells and tissue, for the purpose of preserving long-standing expertise and to encourage new investigators and clinicians to include EM studies of liver cells and tissue in their projects. PMID:20556830

ultraLM and miniLM: Locator tools for smart tracking of fluorescent cells in correlative light and electron microscopy.

PubMed

Brama, Elisabeth; Peddie, Christopher J; Wilkes, Gary; Gu, Yan; Collinson, Lucy M; Jones, Martin L

2016-12-13

In-resin fluorescence (IRF) protocols preserve fluorescent proteins in resin-embedded cells and tissues for correlative light and electron microscopy, aiding interpretation of macromolecular function within the complex cellular landscape. Dual-contrast IRF samples can be imaged in separate fluorescence and electron microscopes, or in dual-modality integrated microscopes for high resolution correlation of fluorophore to organelle. IRF samples also offer a unique opportunity to automate correlative imaging workflows. Here we present two new locator tools for finding and following fluorescent cells in IRF blocks, enabling future automation of correlative imaging. The ultraLM is a fluorescence microscope that integrates with an ultramicrotome, which enables 'smart collection' of ultrathin sections containing fluorescent cells or tissues for subsequent transmission electron microscopy or array tomography. The miniLM is a fluorescence microscope that integrates with serial block face scanning electron microscopes, which enables 'smart tracking' of fluorescent structures during automated serial electron image acquisition from large cell and tissue volumes.

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

A national facility for biological cryo-electron microscopy

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

Saibil, Helen R., E-mail: h.saibil@mail.cryst.bbk.ac.uk; Grünewald, Kay; Stuart, David I.

2015-01-01

This review provides a brief update on the use of cryo-electron microscopy for integrated structural biology, along with an overview of the plans for the UK national facility for electron microscopy being built at the Diamond synchrotron. Three-dimensional electron microscopy is an enormously powerful tool for structural biologists. It is now able to provide an understanding of the molecular machinery of cells, disease processes and the actions of pathogenic organisms from atomic detail through to the cellular context. However, cutting-edge research in this field requires very substantial resources for equipment, infrastructure and expertise. Here, a brief overview is provided ofmore » the plans for a UK national three-dimensional electron-microscopy facility for integrated structural biology to enable internationally leading research on the machinery of life. State-of-the-art equipment operated with expert support will be provided, optimized for both atomic-level single-particle analysis of purified macromolecules and complexes and for tomography of cell sections. The access to and organization of the facility will be modelled on the highly successful macromolecular crystallography (MX) synchrotron beamlines, and will be embedded at the Diamond Light Source, facilitating the development of user-friendly workflows providing near-real-time experimental feedback.« less

3D imaging of cells and tissues by focused ion beam/scanning electron microscopy (FIB/SEM).

PubMed

Drobne, Damjana

2013-01-01

Integration of a scanning electron microscope (SEM) and focused ion beam (FIB) technology into a single FIB/SEM system permits use of the FIB as a nano-scalpel to reveal site-specific subsurface microstructures which can be examined in great detail by SEM. The FIB/SEM technology is widely used in the semiconductor industry and material sciences, and recently its use in the life sciences has been initiated. Samples for FIB/SEM investigation can be either embedded in a plastic matrix, the traditional means of preparation of transmission electron microscopy (TEM) specimens, or simply dried as in samples prepared for SEM imaging. Currently, FIB/SEM is used in the life sciences for (a) preparation by the lift-out technique of lamella for TEM analysis, (b) tomography of samples embedded in a matrix, and (c) in situ site-specific FIB milling and SEM imaging using a wide range of magnifications. Site-specific milling and imaging has attracted wide interest as a technique in structural research of single eukaryotic and prokaryotic cells, small animals, and different animal tissue, but it still remains to be explored more thoroughly. In the past, preparation of samples for site-specific milling and imaging by FIB/SEM has typically adopted the embedding techniques used for TEM samples, and which have been very well described in the literature. Sample preparation protocols for the use of dried samples in FIB/SEM have been less well investigated. The aim of this chapter is to encourage application of FIB/SEM on dried biological samples. A detailed description of conventional dried sample preparation and FIB/SEM investigation of dried biological samples is presented. The important steps are described and illustrated, and direct comparison between embedded and dried samples of same tissues is provided. The ability to discover links between gross morphology of the tissue or organ, surface characteristics of any selected region, and intracellular structural details on the nanometer scale is an appealing application of electron microscopy in the life sciences and merits further exploration.

Transmission electron microscopy of amyloid fibrils.

PubMed

Gras, Sally L; Waddington, Lynne J; Goldie, Kenneth N

2011-01-01

Transmission Electron Microscopy of negatively stained and cryo-prepared specimens allows amyloid fibrils to be visualised at high resolution in a dried or a hydrated state, and is an essential method for characterising the morphology of fibrils and pre-fibrillar species. We outline the key steps involved in the preparation and observation of samples using negative staining and cryo-electron preservation. We also discuss methods to measure fibril characteristics, such as fibril width, from electron micrographs.

Thon rings from amorphous ice and implications of beam-induced Brownian motion in single particle electron cryo-microscopy.

PubMed

McMullan, G; Vinothkumar, K R; Henderson, R

2015-11-01

We have recorded dose-fractionated electron cryo-microscope images of thin films of pure flash-frozen amorphous ice and pre-irradiated amorphous carbon on a Falcon II direct electron detector using 300 keV electrons. We observe Thon rings [1] in both the power spectrum of the summed frames and the sum of power spectra from the individual frames. The Thon rings from amorphous carbon images are always more visible in the power spectrum of the summed frames whereas those of amorphous ice are more visible in the sum of power spectra from the individual frames. This difference indicates that while pre-irradiated carbon behaves like a solid during the exposure, amorphous ice behaves like a fluid with the individual water molecules undergoing beam-induced motion. Using the measured variation in the power spectra amplitude with number of electrons per image we deduce that water molecules are randomly displaced by a mean squared distance of ∼1.1 Å(2) for every incident 300 keV e(-)/Å(2). The induced motion leads to an optimal exposure with 300 keV electrons of 4.0 e(-)/Å(2) per image with which to observe Thon rings centred around the strong 3.7 Å scattering peak from amorphous ice. The beam-induced movement of the water molecules generates pseudo-Brownian motion of embedded macromolecules. The resulting blurring of single particle images contributes an additional term, on top of that from radiation damage, to the minimum achievable B-factor for macromolecular structure determination. Copyright © 2015 The Authors. Published by Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Synthesis of carbon-encapsulated metal nanoparticles from wood char

Treesearch

Yicheng Du; Chuji Wang; Hossein Toghiani; Zhiyong Cai; Xiaojian Liu; Jilei Zhang; Qiangu Yan

2010-01-01

Carbon-encapsulated metal nanoparticles were synthesized by thermal treatment of wood char, with or without transition metal ions pre-impregnated, at 900ºC to 1,100ºC. Nanoparticles with concentric multilayer shells were observed. The nanoparticles were analyzed by scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray diffraction...

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

4D multiple-cathode ultrafast electron microscopy

PubMed Central

Baskin, John Spencer; Liu, Haihua; Zewail, Ahmed H.

2014-01-01

Four-dimensional multiple-cathode ultrafast electron microscopy is developed to enable the capture of multiple images at ultrashort time intervals for a single microscopic dynamic process. The dynamic process is initiated in the specimen by one femtosecond light pulse and probed by multiple packets of electrons generated by one UV laser pulse impinging on multiple, spatially distinct, cathode surfaces. Each packet is distinctly recorded, with timing and detector location controlled by the cathode configuration. In the first demonstration, two packets of electrons on each image frame (of the CCD) probe different times, separated by 19 picoseconds, in the evolution of the diffraction of a gold film following femtosecond heating. Future elaborations of this concept to extend its capabilities and expand the range of applications of 4D ultrafast electron microscopy are discussed. The proof-of-principle demonstration reported here provides a path toward the imaging of irreversible ultrafast phenomena of materials, and opens the door to studies involving the single-frame capture of ultrafast dynamics using single-pump/multiple-probe, embedded stroboscopic imaging. PMID:25006261

4D multiple-cathode ultrafast electron microscopy.

PubMed

Baskin, John Spencer; Liu, Haihua; Zewail, Ahmed H

2014-07-22

Four-dimensional multiple-cathode ultrafast electron microscopy is developed to enable the capture of multiple images at ultrashort time intervals for a single microscopic dynamic process. The dynamic process is initiated in the specimen by one femtosecond light pulse and probed by multiple packets of electrons generated by one UV laser pulse impinging on multiple, spatially distinct, cathode surfaces. Each packet is distinctly recorded, with timing and detector location controlled by the cathode configuration. In the first demonstration, two packets of electrons on each image frame (of the CCD) probe different times, separated by 19 picoseconds, in the evolution of the diffraction of a gold film following femtosecond heating. Future elaborations of this concept to extend its capabilities and expand the range of applications of 4D ultrafast electron microscopy are discussed. The proof-of-principle demonstration reported here provides a path toward the imaging of irreversible ultrafast phenomena of materials, and opens the door to studies involving the single-frame capture of ultrafast dynamics using single-pump/multiple-probe, embedded stroboscopic imaging.

Design of Embedded-Hybrid Antimicrobial Peptides with Enhanced Cell Selectivity and Anti-Biofilm Activity

PubMed Central

Xu, Wei; Zhu, Xin; Tan, Tingting; Li, Weizhong; Shan, Anshan

2014-01-01

Antimicrobial peptides have attracted considerable attention because of their broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity and their low prognostic to induce antibiotic resistance which is the most common source of failure in bacterial infection treatment along with biofilms. The method to design hybrid peptide integrating different functional domains of peptides has many advantages. In this study, we designed an embedded-hybrid peptide R-FV-I16 by replacing a functional defective sequence RR7 with the anti-biofilm sequence FV7 embedded in the middle position of peptide RI16. The results demonstrated that the synthetic hybrid the peptide R-FV-I16 had potent antimicrobial activity over a wide range of Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria, as well as anti-biofilm activity. More importantly, R-FV-I16 showed lower hemolytic activity and cytotoxicity. Fluorescent assays demonstrated that R-FV-I16 depolarized the outer and the inner bacterial membranes, while scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy further indicated that this peptide killed bacterial cells by disrupting the cell membrane, thereby damaging membrane integrity. Results from SEM also provided evidence that R-FV-I16 inherited anti-biofilm activity from the functional peptide sequence FV7. Embedded-hybrid peptides could provide a new pattern for combining different functional domains and showing an effective avenue to screen for novel antimicrobial agents. PMID:24945359

Transmission electron microscope studies of extraterrestrial materials

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Keller, Lindsay P.

1995-01-01

Transmission Electron Microscopy, X-Ray spectrometry and electron-energy-loss spectroscopy are used to analyse carbon in interplanetary dust particles. Optical micrographs are shown depicting cross sections of the dust particles embedded in sulphur. Selected-area electron diffraction patterns are shown. Transmission Electron Microscope specimens of lunar soil were prepared using two methods: ion-milling and ultramicrotomy. A combination of high resolution TEM imaging and electron diffraction is used to characterize the opaque assemblages. The opaque assemblages analyzed in this study are dominated by ilmenite with lesser rutile and spinel exsolutions, and traces of Fe metal.

Zn nanoparticle formation in FIB irradiated single crystal ZnO

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pea, M.; Barucca, G.; Notargiacomo, A.; Di Gaspare, L.; Mussi, V.

2018-03-01

We report on the formation of Zn nanoparticles induced by Ga+ focused ion beam on single crystal ZnO. The irradiated materials have been studied as a function of the ion dose by means of atomic force microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, Raman spectroscopy and transmission electron microscopy, evidencing the presence of Zn nanoparticles with size of the order of 5-30 nm. The nanoparticles are found to be embedded in a shallow amorphous ZnO matrix few tens of nanometers thick. Results reveal that ion beam induced Zn clustering occurs producing crystalline particles with the same hexagonal lattice and orientation of the substrate, and could explain the alteration of optical and electrical properties found for FIB fabricated and processed ZnO based devices.

Overview of electron crystallography of membrane proteins: crystallization and screening strategies using negative stain electron microscopy.

PubMed

Nannenga, Brent L; Iadanza, Matthew G; Vollmar, Breanna S; Gonen, Tamir

2013-01-01

Electron cryomicroscopy, or cryoEM, is an emerging technique for studying the three-dimensional structures of proteins and large macromolecular machines. Electron crystallography is a branch of cryoEM in which structures of proteins can be studied at resolutions that rival those achieved by X-ray crystallography. Electron crystallography employs two-dimensional crystals of a membrane protein embedded within a lipid bilayer. The key to a successful electron crystallographic experiment is the crystallization, or reconstitution, of the protein of interest. This unit describes ways in which protein can be expressed, purified, and reconstituted into well-ordered two-dimensional crystals. A protocol is also provided for negative stain electron microscopy as a tool for screening crystallization trials. When large and well-ordered crystals are obtained, the structures of both protein and its surrounding membrane can be determined to atomic resolution.

Enzyme Histochemistry for Functional Histology in Invertebrates.

PubMed

Cima, Francesca

2017-01-01

In invertebrates, enzyme histochemistry has recently found a renaissance regarding its applications in morphology and ecology. Many enzyme activities are useful for the morphofunctional characterization of cells, as biomarkers of biological and pathologic processes, and as markers of the response to environmental stressors. Here, the adjustments to classic techniques, including the most common enzymes used for digestion, absorption, transport, and oxidation, as well as techniques for azo-coupling, metal salt substitution and oxidative coupling polymerization, are presented in detail for various terrestrial and aquatic invertebrates. This chapter also provides strategies to solve the problems regarding anesthesia, small body size, the presence of an exo- or endoskeleton and the search for the best fixative in relation to the internal fluid osmolarity. These techniques have the aim of obtaining good results for both the pre- and post-embedding labeling of specimens, tissue blocks, sections, and hemolymph smears using both light and transmission electron microscopy.

Two novel approaches to study arthropod anatomy by using dualbeam FIB/SEM.

PubMed

Di Giulio, Andrea; Muzzi, Maurizio

2018-03-01

Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) has always been the conventional method to study arthropod ultrastructure, while the use of Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) was mainly devoted to the examination of the external cuticular structures by secondary electrons. The new generation field emission SEMs are capable to generate images at sub-cellular level, comparable to TEM images employing backscattered electrons. The potential of this kind of acquisition becomes very powerful in the dual beam FIB/SEM where the SEM column is combined with a Focused Ion Beam (FIB) column. FIB uses ions as a nano-scalpel to slice samples fixed and embedded in resin, replacing traditional ultramicrotomy. We here present two novel methods, which optimize the use of FIB/SEM for studying arthropod anatomy. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Imaging electron wave functions inside open quantum rings.

PubMed

Martins, F; Hackens, B; Pala, M G; Ouisse, T; Sellier, H; Wallart, X; Bollaert, S; Cappy, A; Chevrier, J; Bayot, V; Huant, S

2007-09-28

Combining scanning gate microscopy (SGM) experiments and simulations, we demonstrate low temperature imaging of the electron probability density |Psi|(2)(x,y) in embedded mesoscopic quantum rings. The tip-induced conductance modulations share the same temperature dependence as the Aharonov-Bohm effect, indicating that they originate from electron wave function interferences. Simulations of both |Psi|(2)(x,y) and SGM conductance maps reproduce the main experimental observations and link fringes in SGM images to |Psi|(2)(x,y).

An Effective Method of Preparing Sections of Bacillus polymyxa Sporangia and Spores for Electron Microscopy

PubMed Central

Holbert, Pauline E.

1960-01-01

Bacillus polymyxa sporangia and spores were prepared for examination in the electron microscope by methods whose critical features were apparently: judicious use of vacuum, to encourage complete penetration of the embedding medium; the use of epoxy resins as embedding media; and cutting of the thin sections with a diamond knife. Electron micrographs of material prepared in this manner exhibit undeformed sporangial sections. Some of the structures revealed have been shown before, though perhaps less distinctly; other structures are revealed here for the first time. While this single study does not pretend to elucidate all the complexities of sporulation in bacteria, these and similar images should make this possible, and some mention of the preparatory techniques that lead to them seems advisable at this time. PMID:14402552

Acid-etching technique of non-decalcified bone samples for visualizing osteocyte-lacuno-canalicular network using scanning electron microscope.

PubMed

Lampi, Tiina; Dekker, Hannah; Ten Bruggenkate, Chris M; Schulten, Engelbert A J M; Mikkonen, Jopi J W; Koistinen, Arto; Kullaa, Arja M

2018-01-01

The aim of this study was to define the acid-etching technique for bone samples embedded in polymethyl metacrylate (PMMA) in order to visualize the osteocyte lacuno-canalicular network (LCN) for scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Human jaw bone tissue samples (N = 18) were collected from the study population consisting of patients having received dental implant surgery. After collection, the bone samples were fixed in 70% ethanol and non-decalcified samples embedded routinely into polymethyl metacrylate (PMMA). The PMMA embedded specimens were acid-etched in either 9 or 37% phosphoric acid (PA) and prepared for SEM for further analysis. PMMA embedded bone specimens acid-etched by 9% PA concentration accomplishes the most informative and favorable visualization of the LCN to be observed by SEM. Etching of PMMA embedded specimens is recommendable to start with 30 s or 40 s etching duration in order to find the proper etching duration for the samples examined. Visualizing osteocytes and LCN provides a tool to study bone structure that reflects changes in bone metabolism and diseases related to bone tissue. By proper etching protocol of non-decalcified and using scanning electron microscope it is possible to visualize the morphology of osteocytes and the network supporting vitality of bone tissue.

Application of high-angle annular dark field scanning transmission electron microscopy, scanning transmission electron microscopy-energy dispersive X-ray spectrometry, and energy-filtered transmission electron microscopy to the characterization of nanoparticles in the environment.

PubMed

Utsunomiya, Satoshi; Ewing, Rodney C

2003-02-15

A major challenge to the development of a fundamental understanding of transport and retardation mechanisms of trace metal contaminants (<10 ppm) is their identification and characterization at the nanoscale. Atomic-scale techniques, such as conventional transmission electron microscopy, although powerful, are limited by the extremely small amounts of material that are examined. However, recent advances in electron microscopy provide a number of new analytical techniques that expand its application in environmental studies, particularly those concerning heavy metals on airborne particulates or water-borne colloids. High-angle annular dark field scanning transmission electron microscopy (HAADF-STEM), STEM-energy-dispersive X-ray spectrometry (EDX), and energy-filtered TEM (EFTEM) can be effectively used to identify and characterize nanoparticles. The image contrast in HAADF-STEM is strongly correlated to the atomic mass: heavier elements contribute to brighter contrast. Gold nanocrystals in pyrite and uranium nanocrystals in atmospheric aerosols have been identified by HAADF-STEM and STEM-EDX mapping and subsequently characterized by high-resolution TEM (HRTEM). EFTEM was used to identify U and Fe nanocrystals embedded in an aluminosilicate. A rare, As-bearing nanophase, westerveldite (FeAs), was identified by STEM-EDX and HRTEM. The combined use of these techniques greatly expands the effective application of electron microscopy in environmental studies, especially when applied to metals of very low concentrations. This paper describes examples of how these electron microbeam techniques can be used in combination to characterize a low concentration of heavy metals (a few ppm) on nanoscale particles.

Electron microscopy using the genetically encoded APEX2 tag in cultured mammalian cells

PubMed Central

Martell, Jeffrey D; Deerinck, Thomas J; Lam, Stephanie S; Ellisman, Mark H; Ting, Alice Y

2018-01-01

Electron microscopy (EM) is the premiere technique for high-resolution imaging of cellular ultrastructure. Unambiguous identification of specific proteins or cellular compartments in electron micrographs, however, remains challenging because of difficulties in delivering electron-dense contrast agents to specific subcellular targets within intact cells. We recently reported enhanced ascorbate peroxidase 2 (APEX2) as a broadly applicable genetic tag that generates EM contrast on a specific protein or subcellular compartment of interest. This protocol provides guidelines for designing and validating APEX2 fusion constructs, along with detailed instructions for cell culture, transfection, fixation, heavy-metal staining, embedding in resin, and EM imaging. Although this protocol focuses on EM in cultured mammalian cells, APEX2 is applicable to many cell types and contexts, including intact tissues and organisms, and is useful for numerous applications beyond EM, including live-cell proteomic mapping. This protocol, which describes procedures for sample preparation from cell monolayers and cell pellets, can be completed in 10 d, including time for APEX2 fusion construct validation, cell growth, and solidification of embedding resins. Notably, the only additional steps required relative to a standard EM sample preparation are cell transfection and a 2- to 45-min staining period with 3,3′-diaminobenzidine (DAB) and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2). PMID:28796234

Synthesis of AzPhchitosan-bifenthrin-PVC to protect cables against termites.

PubMed

Zhang, Lingkun; Cai, Weiwei; Chen, Wu-Ya; Zhang, Li; Hu, Kaikai; Guan, Yan-Qing

2016-03-30

The destruction of PVC cables by termites is a continuing and long-standing problem, which can lead to power leakage and power cut. Given the environmental demerits of insecticide overuse, alternative methods of addressing this problem are a highly desirable goal. In this study, we used photo-immobilization to develop a chitosan carrier system to help bifenthrin immobilize on the surface of the PVC substrate. The immobilization was analyzed using nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), UV absorption, reverse-phase high-performance liquid chromatography (RP-HPLC), Raman absorption spectroscopy, and thermal gravimetric analysis (TGA). The surface structure and biological activity of the embedded and immobilized bifenthrin were examined using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), and X-ray photon-electron spectroscopy (XPS). Its efficacy was assessed in pest experiments. The results indicate a successful embedding and immobilization of bifenthrin. Furthermore, the chemical bonding network between AzPhchitosan, bifenthrin, and PVC is stable, guaranteeing no environmental release of bifenthrin, and also providing more efficacious protection against termites. The evidence suggests that this photo-immobilization of bifenthrin-embedded chitosan on the surface of PVC substrates is a novel and environmentally friendly technique for termite control. This paper also reports a modification of chitosan with respect to its novel application in environmental protection. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Carrier transport in flexible organic bistable devices of ZnO nanoparticles embedded in an insulating poly(methyl methacrylate) polymer layer.

PubMed

Son, Dong-Ick; Park, Dong-Hee; Choi, Won Kook; Cho, Sung-Hwan; Kim, Won-Tae; Kim, Tae Whan

2009-05-13

The bistable effects of ZnO nanoparticles embedded in an insulating poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA) polymer single layer by using flexible polyethylene terephthalate (PET) substrates were investigated. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) images revealed that ZnO nanoparticles were formed inside the PMMA polymer layer. Current-voltage (I-V) measurement on the Al/ZnO nanoparticles embedded in an insulating PMMA polymer layer/ITO/PET structures at 300 K showed a nonvolatile electrical bistability behavior with a flat-band voltage shift due to the existence of the ZnO nanoparticles, indicative of trapping, storing, and emission of charges in the electronic states of the ZnO nanoparticles. The carrier transport mechanism of the bistable behavior for the fabricated organic bistable device (OBD) structures is described on the basis of the I-V results by analyzing the effect of space charge.

Extremely halophilic archaea from ancient salt sediments and their possible survival in halite fluid inclusions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Stan-Lotter, H.; Fendrihan, S.; Gerbl, F. W.; Dornmayr-Pfaffenhuemer, M.; Frethem, C.

2008-09-01

Halophilic archaebacteria (haloarchaea) thrive in environments with salt concentrations approaching saturation, such as natural brines, marine solar salterns and alkaline salt lakes; they have also been isolated from ancient subsurface salt sediments of great geological age (195-280 million years) and some of those strains were described as novel species (1). The cells survived perhaps while being enclosed within small fluid inclusions in the halite. The characterization of subsurface microbial life is of astrobiological relevance since extraterrestrial halite has been detected and since microbial life on Mars, if existent, may have retreated into the subsurface. We attempted to simulate the embedding process of extremely halophilic archaea and to analyse any cellular changes which might occur. When enclosing haloarchaea in laboratory grown halite, cells accumulated preferentially in fluid inclusions, as could be demonstrated by pre-staining with fluorescent dyes. With increased time of embedding, rod-shaped cells of Halobacterium salinarum strains were found to assume roundish morphologies. Upon dissolution of the salt crystals, these spheres were stable and viable for months when kept in buffers containing 4 M NaCl. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) following fixation with glutaraldehyde suggested a potentially gradual transformation from rods to spheres. This notion was supported by fluorescence microscopy of Halobacterium cells, following embedding in halite and staining with SYTO 9. One-dimensional protein patterns of rods and spheres, following SDS polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, were similar except that the S-layer protein appeared reduced by about 15 - 20 % in spheres. The reddish-orange pigmentation of spheres was much lighter compared to that of rod-shaped cells, suggesting lowered concentrations of carotenoids; this was confirmed by extraction and spectrometry of pigments. The data suggested that Halobacterium cells are capable of forming specific cellular structures upon embedding in fluid inclusions of halite. It is tempting to speculate that such structures may be responsible for long term survival in ancient geological materials such as salt sediments, including extraterrestrial salt. (1) Fendrihan S., Legat A., Pfaffenhuemer M., Gruber C., Weidler W., Gerbl F.W., Stan-Lotter H. (2006) Extremely halophilic archaea and the issue of long-term microbial survival. Reviews in Environmental Science and Bio/technology 5, 1569-1605.

Optical nondestructive dynamic measurements of wafer-scale encapsulated nanofluidic channels.

PubMed

Liberman, Vladimir; Smith, Melissa; Weaver, Isaac; Rothschild, Mordechai

2018-05-20

Nanofluidic channels are of great interest for DNA sequencing, chromatography, and drug delivery. However, metrology of embedded or sealed nanochannels and measurement of their fill-state have remained extremely challenging. Existing techniques have been restricted to optical microscopy, which suffers from insufficient resolution, or scanning electron microscopy, which cannot measure sealed or embedded channels without cleaving the sample. Here, we demonstrate a novel method for accurately extracting nanochannel cross-sectional dimensions and monitoring fluid filling, utilizing spectroscopic ellipsometric scatterometry, combined with rigorous electromagnetic simulations. Our technique is capable of measuring channel dimensions with better than 5-nm accuracy and assessing channel filling within seconds. The developed technique is, thus, well suited for both process monitoring of channel fabrication as well as for studying complex phenomena of fluid flow through nanochannel structures.

Magneto-optical Faraday rotation of semiconductor nanoparticles embedded in dielectric matrices.

PubMed

Savchuk, Andriy I; Stolyarchuk, Ihor D; Makoviy, Vitaliy V; Savchuk, Oleksandr A

2014-04-01

Faraday rotation has been studied for CdS, CdTe, and CdS:Mn semiconductor nanoparticles synthesized by colloidal chemistry methods. Additionally these materials were prepared in a form of semiconductor nanoparticles embedded in polyvinyl alcohol films. Transmission electron microscopy and atomic force microscopy analyses served as confirmation of nanocrystallinity and estimation of the average size of the nanoparticles. Spectral dependence of the Faraday rotation for the studied nanocrystals and nanocomposites is correlated with a blueshift of the absorption edge due to the confinement effect in zero-dimensional structures. Faraday rotation spectra and their temperature behavior in Mn-doped nanocrystals demonstrates peculiarities, which are associated with s, p-d exchange interaction between Mn²⁺ ions and band carriers in diluted magnetic semiconductor nanostructures.

Three-dimensional imaging of adherent cells using FIB/SEM and STEM.

PubMed

Villinger, Clarissa; Schauflinger, Martin; Gregorius, Heiko; Kranz, Christine; Höhn, Katharina; Nafeey, Soufi; Walther, Paul

2014-01-01

In this chapter we describe three different approaches for three-dimensional imaging of electron microscopic samples: serial sectioning transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM) tomography, and focused ion beam/scanning electron microscopy (FIB/SEM) tomography. With these methods, relatively large volumes of resin-embedded biological structures can be analyzed at resolutions of a few nm within a reasonable expenditure of time. The traditional method is serial sectioning and imaging the same area in all sections. Another method is TEM tomography that involves tilting a section in the electron beam and then reconstruction of the volume by back projection of the images. When the scanning transmission (STEM) mode is used, thicker sections (up to 1 μm) can be analyzed. The third approach presented here is focused ion beam/scanning electron microscopy (FIB/SEM) tomography, in which a sample is repeatedly milled with a focused ion beam (FIB) and each newly produced block face is imaged with the scanning electron microscope (SEM). This process can be repeated ad libitum in arbitrary small increments allowing 3D analysis of relatively large volumes such as eukaryotic cells. We show that resolution of this approach is considerably improved when the secondary electron signal is used. However, the most important prerequisite for three-dimensional imaging is good specimen preparation. For all three imaging methods, cryo-fixed (high-pressure frozen) and freeze-substituted samples have been used.

Backscattered electron SEM imaging of resin sections from plant specimens: observation of histological to subcellular structure and CLEM.

PubMed

Rizzo, N W; Duncan, K E; Bourett, T M; Howard, R J

2016-08-01

We have refined methods for biological specimen preparation and low-voltage backscattered electron imaging in the scanning electron microscope that allow for observation at continuous magnifications of ca. 130-70 000 X, and documentation of tissue and subcellular ultrastructure detail. The technique, based upon early work by Ogura & Hasegawa (1980), affords use of significantly larger sections from fixed and resin-embedded specimens than is possible with transmission electron microscopy while providing similar data. After microtomy, the sections, typically ca. 750 nm thick, were dried onto the surface of glass or silicon wafer and stained with heavy metals-the use of grids avoided. The glass/wafer support was then mounted onto standard scanning electron microscopy sample stubs, carbon-coated and imaged directly at an accelerating voltage of 5 kV, using either a yttrium aluminum garnet or ExB backscattered electron detector. Alternatively, the sections could be viewed first by light microscopy, for example to document signal from a fluorescent protein, and then by scanning electron microscopy to provide correlative light/electron microscope (CLEM) data. These methods provide unobstructed access to ultrastructure in the spatial context of a section ca. 7 × 10 mm in size, significantly larger than the typical 0.2 × 0.3 mm section used for conventional transmission electron microscopy imaging. Application of this approach was especially useful when the biology of interest was rare or difficult to find, e.g. a particular cell type, developmental stage, large organ, the interface between cells of interacting organisms, when contextual information within a large tissue was obligatory, or combinations of these factors. In addition, the methods were easily adapted for immunolocalizations. © 2015 The Author. Journal of Microscopy published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd on behalf of the Royal Microscopical Society.

Electronically decoupled stacking fault tetrahedra embedded in Au(111) films

PubMed Central

Schouteden, Koen; Amin-Ahmadi, Behnam; Li, Zhe; Muzychenko, Dmitry; Schryvers, Dominique; Van Haesendonck, Chris

2016-01-01

Stacking faults are known as defective structures in crystalline materials that typically lower the structural quality of the material. Here, we show that a particular type of defect, that is, stacking fault tetrahedra (SFTs), exhibits pronounced quantized electronic behaviour, revealing a potential synthetic route to decoupled nanoparticles in metal films. We report on the electronic properties of SFTs that exist in Au(111) films, as evidenced by scanning tunnelling microscopy and confirmed by transmission electron microscopy. We find that the SFTs reveal a remarkable decoupling from their metal surroundings, leading to pronounced energy level quantization effects within the SFTs. The electronic behaviour of the SFTs can be described well by the particle-in-a-box model. Our findings demonstrate that controlled preparation of SFTs may offer an alternative way to achieve well-decoupled nanoparticles of high crystalline quality in metal thin films without the need of thin insulating layers. PMID:28008910

Electronically decoupled stacking fault tetrahedra embedded in Au(111) films.

PubMed

Schouteden, Koen; Amin-Ahmadi, Behnam; Li, Zhe; Muzychenko, Dmitry; Schryvers, Dominique; Van Haesendonck, Chris

2016-12-23

Stacking faults are known as defective structures in crystalline materials that typically lower the structural quality of the material. Here, we show that a particular type of defect, that is, stacking fault tetrahedra (SFTs), exhibits pronounced quantized electronic behaviour, revealing a potential synthetic route to decoupled nanoparticles in metal films. We report on the electronic properties of SFTs that exist in Au(111) films, as evidenced by scanning tunnelling microscopy and confirmed by transmission electron microscopy. We find that the SFTs reveal a remarkable decoupling from their metal surroundings, leading to pronounced energy level quantization effects within the SFTs. The electronic behaviour of the SFTs can be described well by the particle-in-a-box model. Our findings demonstrate that controlled preparation of SFTs may offer an alternative way to achieve well-decoupled nanoparticles of high crystalline quality in metal thin films without the need of thin insulating layers.

Formation of nanogaps in InAs nanowires by selectively etching embedded InP segments.

PubMed

Schukfeh, M I; Storm, K; Hansen, A; Thelander, C; Hinze, P; Beyer, A; Weimann, T; Samuelson, L; Tornow, M

2014-11-21

We present a method to fabricate nanometer scale gaps within InAs nanowires by selectively etching InAs/InP heterostructure nanowires. We used vapor-liquid-solid grown InAs nanowires with embedded InP segments of 10-60 nm length and developed an etching recipe to selectively remove the InP segment. A photo-assisted wet etching process in a mixture of acetic acid and hydrobromic acid gave high selectivity, with accurate removal of InP segments down to 20 nm, leaving the InAs wire largely unattacked, as verified using scanning electron and transmission electron microscopy. The obtained nanogaps in InAs wires have potential as semiconducting electrodes to investigate electronic transport in nanoscale objects. We demonstrate this functionality by dielectrophoretically trapping 30 nm diameter gold nanoparticles into the gap.

The sea urchin egg jelly coat is a three-dimensional fibrous network as seen by intermediate voltage electron microscopy and deep etching analysis.

PubMed

Bonnell, B S; Larabell, C; Chandler, D E

1993-06-01

The egg jelly (EJ) coat which surrounds the unfertilized sea urchin egg undergoes extensive swelling upon contact with sea water, forming a three-dimensional network of interconnected fibers extending nearly 50 microns from the egg surface. Owing to its solubility, this coat has been difficult to visualize by light and electron microscopy. However, Lytechinus pictus EJ coats remain intact, if the fixation medium is maintained at pH 9. The addition of alcian blue during the final dehydration step of sample preparation stains the EJ for visualization of resin embedded eggs by both light and electron microscopy. Stereo pairs taken of thick sections prepared for intermediate voltage electron microscopy (IVEM) produce a three-dimensional image of the EJ network, consisting of interconnected fibers decorated along their length by globular jelly components. Using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), we have shown that before swelling, EJ exists in a tightly bound network of jelly fibers, 50-60 nm in diameter. In contrast, swollen EJ consists of a greatly extended network whose fibrous components measure 10 to 30 nm in diameter. High resolution stereo images of hydrated jelly produced by the quick-freeze/deep-etch/rotary-shadowing technique (QF/DE/RS) show nearly identical EJ networks, suggesting that dehydration does not markedly alter the structure of this extracellular matrix.

Methods for characterizing plant fibers.

PubMed

Cruthers, Natasha; Carr, Debra; Niven, Brian; Girvan, Elizabeth; Laing, Raechel

2005-08-01

The effectiveness of different microscopy techniques for measuring the dimensions of ultimate fibers from harakeke (Phormium tenax, New Zealand flax) was investigated using a factorial experimental design. Constant variables were geographical location, location of specimens along the leaf, season (winter), individual plant, a fourth leaf from a north-facing fan, age of plant, and cultivars (two). Experimental variables were microscopy techniques and measurement axis. Measurements of width and length of harakeke ultimate fibers depended on the microscopic preparation/technique used as well as the cultivar examined. The best methods were (i) transverse sections of leaf specimens 4 microm thick, embedded in Paraplast and observed using light microscopy, and (ii) nonfixed ultimate fibers observed using scanning electron microscopy. (c) 2005 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

Corrosion protection and adhesion properties of the epoxy coating applied on the steel substrate pre-treated by a sol-gel based silane coating filled with amino and isocyanate silane functionalized graphene oxide nanosheets

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Parhizkar, Nafise; Ramezanzadeh, Bahram; Shahrabi, Taghi

2018-05-01

This research has focused on the effect of graphene oxide (GO) nano-fillers embedded in the sol-gel based silane coating on the corrosion protection and adhesion properties of the epoxy coating applied on the steel substrate pre-treated by silane coatings. For this purpose, a mixture of Methyltriethoxysilane (MTES) and Tetraethylorthosilicate (TEOS) silane precursors was used for preparation of composite matrix and the GO nanosheets, which are covalently functionalized with 3-(Triethoxysilyl)propyl isocyanate (TEPI, IGO nano-fillers) and 3-aminopropyltriethoxysilane (APTES, AGO nano-fillers), were used as filler. The GO, AGO and IGO nanosheets were characterized by Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FT-IR), UV-Visible analysis and field emission-scanning electron microscopy techniques. The performance of the silane/epoxy coatings was investigated by pull-off adhesion, cathodic delamination, salt spray and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) tests. Results revealed that AGO and IGO nano-fillers significantly improved the corrosion resistance and adhesion properties of the top epoxy coating due to better compatibility with silane matrix, excellent barrier properties and the formation of covalent bonds with the top epoxy coating.

NiCo2S4 nanorod embedded rGO sheets as electrodes for supercapacitor

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sarkar, Aatreyee; Bera, Supriya; Chakraborty, Amit Kumar

2018-04-01

We report the synthesis of a hybrid nanostructure based on NiCo2S4 and reduced graphene oxide (rGO) following a facile hydrothermal method. X-ray diffraction (XRD), and electron microscopy (FESEM and HRTEM) analyses showed rod-like NiCo2S4 nanostructures embedded in rGO sheets. The electrochemical analysis of the synthesized nanohybrid using cyclic voltammetry (CV) and galvanostatic charge discharge (GCD) revealed specific capacitance of 410 F/gm indicating its suitability as a good electrode material for supercapacitor.

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

Semi-thin sections of epoxy resin-embedded mouse embryos in morphological analysis of whole mount in situ RNA hybridization.

PubMed

Mitrecić, D; Cunko, V F; Gajović, S

2008-12-01

Descriptive morphological studies are often combined with gene expression pattern analyses. Unembedded vibratome or cryotome sections are compatible with in situ RNA hybridization, but spatial resolution is rather low for precise microscopic studies necessary in embryology. Therefore, use of plastic embedding media, which allow semi-thin and ultra-thin sectioning for light and electron microscopy, could be an important advantage. This work suggested a new approach based on the whole mount hybridization of mouse embryos and subsequent epoxy resin embedding. Epoxy resin allowed serial sectioning of semi-thin sections with preserved in situ RNA hybridization signal, which was a necessary prerequisite for precise morphological analysis of embryo development.

Self-Cleaning Anticondensing Glass via Supersonic Spraying of Silver Nanowires, Silica, and Polystyrene Nanoparticles.

PubMed

Lee, Jong-Gun; An, Seongpil; Kim, Tae-Gun; Kim, Min-Woo; Jo, Hong-Seok; Swihart, Mark T; Yarin, Alexander L; Yoon, Sam S

2017-10-11

We have sequentially deposited layers of silver nanowires (AgNWs), silicon dioxide (SiO 2 ) nanoparticles, and polystyrene (PS) nanoparticles on uncoated glass by a rapid low-cost supersonic spraying method to create antifrosting, anticondensation, and self-cleaning glass. The conductive silver nanowire network embedded in the coating allows electrical heating of the glass surface. Supersonic spraying is a single-step coating technique that does not require vacuum. The fabricated multifunctional glass was characterized by X-ray diffraction analysis (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy, and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The thermal insulation and antifrosting performance were demonstrated using infrared thermal imaging. The reliability of the electrical heating function was tested through extensive cycling. This transparent multifunctional coating holds great promise for use in various smart window designs.

Otoconial formation in the fetal rat

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Salamat, M. S.; Ross, M. D.; Peacor, D. R.

1980-01-01

Otoconial formation in the fetal rat is examined by scanning and transmission electron microscopy, and by X-ray elemental analysis. The primitive otoconia appear highly organic, but are trigonal in cross section, indicating that they already possess a three-fold axis of symmetry and a complement of calcite. These otoconia develop into spindle-shaped and, subsequently, dumbbell-shaped units. Transmission electron microscopy of dumbbell-shaped otoconia not exposed to fluids during embedment showed that calcite deposits mimicked the arrangement of the organic material. X-ray elemental analysis demonstrated that calcium was present in lower quantities in the central core than peripherally. It is concluded that organic material is essential to otoconial seeding and directs otoconial growth.

Preparation and magnetic properties of magnetic photonic crystal by using monodisperse polystyrene covered Fe3O4 nanoparticles onto glass substrate

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Azizi, Zahra Sadat; Tehranchi, Mohammad Mehdi; Vakili, Seyed Hamed; Pourmahdian, Saeed

2018-05-01

Engineering approach towards combined photonic band gap properties and magnetic/polymer composite particles, attract considerable attention of researchers due to their unique properties. In this research, two different magnetic particles were prepared by nearly monodisperse polystyrene spheres as bead with two concentrations of Fe3O4 nanoparticles to prepare magnetic photonic crystals (MPCs). The crystal surfaces and particles morphology were investigated employing scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy. The volume fraction of magnetic material embedded into colloidal spheres and their morphology was found to be a key parameter in the optical and magneto-optical properties of transparent MPC.

Enhanced Photocatalytic Activity of Diamond Thin Films Using Embedded Ag Nanoparticles.

PubMed

Li, Shuo; Bandy, Jason A; Hamers, Robert J

2018-02-14

Silver nanoparticles embedded into the diamond thin films enhance the optical absorption and the photocatalytic activity toward the solvated electron-initiated reduction of N 2 to NH 3 in water. Here, we demonstrate the formation of diamond films with embedded Ag nanoparticles <100 nm in diameter. Cross-sectional scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy-dependent SEM, and energy-dispersive X-ray analysis demonstrate the formation of encapsulated nanoparticles. Optical absorption measurements in the visible and ultraviolet region show that the resulting films exhibit plasmonic resonances in the visible and near-ultraviolet region. Measurements of photocatalytic activity using supraband gap (λ < 225 nm) and sub-band gap (λ > 225 nm) excitation show significantly enhanced ability to convert N 2 to NH 3 . Incorporation of Ag nanoparticles induces a nearly 5-fold increase in activity using a sub-band gap excitation with λ > 225 nm. Our results suggest that internal photoemission, in which electrons are excited from Ag into diamond's conduction band, is an important process that extends the wavelength region beyond diamond's band gap. Other factors, including Ag-induced optical scattering and formation of graphitic impurities are also discussed.

Scanning electron microscopy of bone.

PubMed

Boyde, Alan

2012-01-01

This chapter described methods for Scanning Electron Microscopical imaging of bone and bone cells. Backscattered electron (BSE) imaging is by far the most useful in the bone field, followed by secondary electrons (SE) and the energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) analytical modes. This chapter considers preparing and imaging samples of unembedded bone having 3D detail in a 3D surface, topography-free, polished or micromilled, resin-embedded block surfaces, and resin casts of space in bone matrix. The chapter considers methods for fixation, drying, looking at undersides of bone cells, and coating. Maceration with alkaline bacterial pronase, hypochlorite, hydrogen peroxide, and sodium or potassium hydroxide to remove cells and unmineralised matrix is described in detail. Attention is given especially to methods for 3D BSE SEM imaging of bone samples and recommendations for the types of resin embedding of bone for BSE imaging are given. Correlated confocal and SEM imaging of PMMA-embedded bone requires the use of glycerol to coverslip. Cathodoluminescence (CL) mode SEM imaging is an alternative for visualising fluorescent mineralising front labels such as calcein and tetracyclines. Making spatial casts from PMMA or other resin embedded samples is an important use of this material. Correlation with other imaging means, including microradiography and microtomography is important. Shipping wet bone samples between labs is best done in glycerol. Environmental SEM (ESEM, controlled vacuum mode) is valuable in eliminating -"charging" problems which are common with complex, cancellous bone samples.

A national facility for biological cryo-electron microscopy

PubMed Central

Saibil, Helen R.; Grünewald, Kay; Stuart, David I.

2015-01-01

Three-dimensional electron microscopy is an enormously powerful tool for structural biologists. It is now able to provide an understanding of the molecular machinery of cells, disease processes and the actions of pathogenic organisms from atomic detail through to the cellular context. However, cutting-edge research in this field requires very substantial resources for equipment, infrastructure and expertise. Here, a brief overview is provided of the plans for a UK national three-dimensional electron-microscopy facility for integrated structural biology to enable internationally leading research on the machinery of life. State-of-the-art equipment operated with expert support will be provided, optimized for both atomic-level single-particle analysis of purified macromolecules and complexes and for tomography of cell sections. The access to and organization of the facility will be modelled on the highly successful macromolecular crystallography (MX) synchrotron beamlines, and will be embedded at the Diamond Light Source, facilitating the development of user-friendly workflows providing near-real-time experimental feedback. PMID:25615867

Studying Dynamic Processes of Nano-sized Objects in Liquid using Scanning Transmission Electron Microscopy.

PubMed

Hermannsdörfer, Justus; de Jonge, Niels

2017-02-05

Samples fully embedded in liquid can be studied at a nanoscale spatial resolution with Scanning Transmission Electron Microscopy (STEM) using a microfluidic chamber assembled in the specimen holder for Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) and STEM. The microfluidic system consists of two silicon microchips supporting thin Silicon Nitride (SiN) membrane windows. This article describes the basic steps of sample loading and data acquisition. Most important of all is to ensure that the liquid compartment is correctly assembled, thus providing a thin liquid layer and a vacuum seal. This protocol also includes a number of tests necessary to perform during sample loading in order to ensure correct assembly. Once the sample is loaded in the electron microscope, the liquid thickness needs to be measured. Incorrect assembly may result in a too-thick liquid, while a too-thin liquid may indicate the absence of liquid, such as when a bubble is formed. Finally, the protocol explains how images are taken and how dynamic processes can be studied. A sample containing AuNPs is imaged both in pure water and in saline.

Studying Dynamic Processes of Nano-sized Objects in Liquid using Scanning Transmission Electron Microscopy

PubMed Central

Hermannsdörfer, Justus; de Jonge, Niels

2017-01-01

Samples fully embedded in liquid can be studied at a nanoscale spatial resolution with Scanning Transmission Electron Microscopy (STEM) using a microfluidic chamber assembled in the specimen holder for Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) and STEM. The microfluidic system consists of two silicon microchips supporting thin Silicon Nitride (SiN) membrane windows. This article describes the basic steps of sample loading and data acquisition. Most important of all is to ensure that the liquid compartment is correctly assembled, thus providing a thin liquid layer and a vacuum seal. This protocol also includes a number of tests necessary to perform during sample loading in order to ensure correct assembly. Once the sample is loaded in the electron microscope, the liquid thickness needs to be measured. Incorrect assembly may result in a too-thick liquid, while a too-thin liquid may indicate the absence of liquid, such as when a bubble is formed. Finally, the protocol explains how images are taken and how dynamic processes can be studied. A sample containing AuNPs is imaged both in pure water and in saline. PMID:28190028

Preparation of high-quality ultrathin transmission electron microscopy specimens of a nanocrystalline metallic powder.

PubMed

Riedl, Thomas; Gemming, Thomas; Mickel, Christine; Eymann, Konrad; Kirchner, Alexander; Kieback, Bernd

2012-06-01

This article explores the achievable transmission electron microscopy specimen thickness and quality by using three different preparation methods in the case of a high-strength nanocrystalline Cu-Nb powder alloy. Low specimen thickness is essential for spatially resolved analyses of the grains in nanocrystalline materials. We have found that single-sided as well as double-sided low-angle Ar ion milling of the Cu-Nb powders embedded into epoxy resin produced wedge-shaped particles of very low thickness (<10 nm) near the edge. By means of a modified focused ion beam lift-out technique generating holes in the lamella interior large micrometer-sized electron-transparent regions were obtained. However, this lamella displayed a higher thickness at the rim of ≥30 nm. Limiting factors for the observed thicknesses are discussed including ion damage depths, backscattering, and surface roughness, which depend on ion type, energy, current density, and specimen motion. Finally, sections cut by ultramicrotomy at low stroke rate and low set thickness offered vast, several tens of square micrometers uniformly thin regions of ∼10-nm minimum thickness. As major drawbacks, we have detected a thin coating on the sections consisting of epoxy deployed as the embedding material and considerable nanoscale thickness variations. Copyright © 2011 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

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.

Immunocytochemical detection of choline acetyltransferase in the human organ of Corti.

PubMed

Schrott-Fischer, A; Egg, G; Kong, W J; Renard, N; Eybalin, M

1994-08-01

In the mammalian cochlea acetylcholine has been considered a major neurotransmitter of the lateral and medial efferent fibers. The aims of the present study were to investigate the expression of ChAT in the human cochlea and to develop a new method for immunohistochemical investigations in the human cochlea both at the light and electronmicroscopic level. We thus examined the ChAT-like immunoreactivity in the human inner ear using light and electron microscopy with a pre-embedding technique. Our present results agree with the previously published data acquired in rodent species. The ChAT-like immunostaining could be found in the inner spiral fibers, the inner spiral bundle, tunnel crossing fibers and at the base of the outer hair cells. No staining was noted in the negative controls experiments, while rat cochleas used as positive controls showed the usual ChAT-like immunostaining as described above. The main difference between human and rat cochleas was that the efferent nerve supply seems to be less pronounced in the human cochleas.

SILVER IMPREGNATION OF ULTRATHIN SECTIONS FOR ELECTRON MICROSCOPY

PubMed Central

Marinozzi, Vittorio

1961-01-01

A new procedure is described for silver impregnation of thin sections for electron microscopy. Sections of various tissues, fixed in OsO4 and embedded in methacrylate, were treated with an ammoniacal silver solution, directly or after oxidation with periodic acid or hydrogen peroxide. After OsO4 fixation all cellular membranous systems exhibit a primary argentaffinity probably due to the reduction of ammoniacal silver solution by the reduced osmium bound to unsaturated lipids. Bleaching the sections with hydrogen peroxide removes the argentaffinity of protoplasmic structures. Treatment of the sections with periodic acid results in decreased argentaffinity of protoplasmic components while the argentaffinity of metaplasmic structures is greatly enhanced. The latter procedure appears particularly useful for enhancing the contrast of basement membranes. PMID:13766855

Precise and economic FIB/SEM for CLEM: with 2 nm voxels through mitosis.

PubMed

Luckner, Manja; Wanner, Gerhard

2018-05-23

A portfolio is presented documenting economic, high-resolution correlative focused ion beam scanning electron microscopy (FIB/SEM) in routine, comprising: (i) the use of custom-labeled slides and coverslips, (ii) embedding of cells in thin, or ultra-thin resin layers for correlative light and electron microscopy (CLEM) and (iii) the claim to reach the highest resolution possible with FIB/SEM in xyz. Regions of interest (ROIs) defined in light microscope (LM), can be relocated quickly and precisely in SEM. As proof of principle, HeLa cells were investigated in 3D context at all stages of the cell cycle, documenting ultrastructural changes during mitosis: nuclear envelope breakdown and reassembly, Golgi degradation and reconstitution and the formation of the midzone and midbody.

Improved Serial Sectioning Techniques for Correlative Light-Electron Microscopy Mapping of Human Langerhans Islets

PubMed Central

Saitoh, Sei; Ohno, Nobuhiko; Saitoh, Yurika; Terada, Nobuo; Shimo, Satoshi; Aida, Kaoru; Fujii, Hideki; Kobayashi, Tetsuro; Ohno, Shinichi

2018-01-01

Combined analysis of immunostaining for various biological molecules coupled with investigations of ultrastructural features of individual cells is a powerful approach for studies of cellular functions in normal and pathological conditions. However, weak antigenicity of tissues fixed by conventional methods poses a problem for immunoassays. This study introduces a method of correlative light and electron microscopy imaging of the same endocrine cells of compact and diffuse islets from human pancreatic tissue specimens. The method utilizes serial sections obtained from Epon-embedded specimens fixed with glutaraldehyde and osmium tetroxide. Double-immunofluorescence staining of thick Epon sections for endocrine hormones (insulin and glucagon) and regenerating islet-derived gene 1 α (REG1α) was performed following the removal of Epoxy resin with sodium ethoxide, antigen retrieval by autoclaving, and de-osmification treatment with hydrogen peroxide. The immunofluorescence images of endocrine cells were superimposed with the electron microscopy images of the same cells obtained from serial ultrathin sections. Immunofluorescence images showed well-preserved secretory granules in endocrine cells, whereas electron microscopy observations demonstrated corresponding secretory granules and intracellular organelles in the same cells. In conclusion, the correlative imaging approach developed by us may be useful for examining ultrastructural features in combination with immunolocalisation of endocrine hormones in the same human pancreatic islets. PMID:29622846

Reconstitution of Homomeric GluA2flop Receptors in Supported Lipid Membranes

PubMed Central

Baranovic, Jelena; Ramanujan, Chandra S.; Kasai, Nahoko; Midgett, Charles R.; Madden, Dean R.; Torimitsu, Keiichi; Ryan, John F.

2013-01-01

AMPA receptors (AMPARs) are glutamate-gated ion channels ubiquitous in the vertebrate central nervous system, where they mediate fast excitatory neurotransmission and act as molecular determinants of memory formation and learning. Together with detailed analyses of individual AMPAR domains, structural studies of full-length AMPARs by electron microscopy and x-ray crystallography have provided important insights into channel assembly and function. However, the correlation between the structure and functional states of the channel remains ambiguous particularly because these functional states can be assessed only with the receptor bound within an intact lipid bilayer. To provide a basis for investigating AMPAR structure in a membrane environment, we developed an optimized reconstitution protocol using a receptor whose structure has previously been characterized by electron microscopy. Single-channel recordings of reconstituted homomeric GluA2flop receptors recapitulate key electrophysiological parameters of the channels expressed in native cellular membranes. Atomic force microscopy studies of the reconstituted samples provide high-resolution images of membrane-embedded full-length AMPARs at densities comparable to those in postsynaptic membranes. The data demonstrate the effect of protein density on conformational flexibility and dimensions of the receptors and provide the first structural characterization of functional membrane-embedded AMPARs, thus laying the foundation for correlated structure-function analyses of the predominant mediators of excitatory synaptic signals in the brain. PMID:23382380

Relationship between microstructure and optical properties of a novel perovskite C12PbI4 embedded in matrix of porous alumina

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zaghdoudi, W.; Bardaoui, A.; Khalifa, N.; Chtourou, R.

2013-01-01

In this study, organic-inorganic hybrid perovskite multiple quantum wells (PbI QWs) embedded in porous anodic alumina (PAA) thin films on glass and aluminum substrates are investigated in detail. The pore height and diameter of the nanoscale structure of porous anodic alumina (PAA) film produced by the anodization technique are controllable. The synthesized films are characterized morphologically using the atomic force microscopy (AFM). Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) study showed granular surface. The structural and optical properties were investigated by X-ray diffraction (XRD), photoluminescence (PL) and UV-Vis-NIR spectrophotometer. The effect of the two different substrates on the impregnation of the PbI QW in the PAA is presented. Both PL and AFM studies show a better penetration of the PbI QW in the case of the Al substrate providing a wider pore diameter. Remarkable enhancement of quantum confinement is demonstrated.

Interrelations between the Parasitophorous Vacuole of Toxoplasma gondii and Host Cell Organelles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cardoso Magno, Rodrigo; Cobra Straker, Lorian; de Souza, Wanderley; Attias, Marcia

2005-04-01

Toxoplasma gondii, the causative agent of toxoplasmosis, is capable of actively penetrating and multiplying in any nucleated cell of warm-blooded animals. Its survival strategies include escape from fusion of the parasitophorous vacuole with host cell lysosomes and rearrangement of host cell organelles in relation to the parasitophorous vacuole. In this article we report the rearrangement of host cell organelles and elements of the cytoskeleton of LLCMK2 cells, a lineage derived from green monkey kidney epithelial cells, in response to infection by T. gondii tachyzoites. Transmission electron microscopy made on flat embedded monolayers cut horizontally to the apical side of the cells or field emission scanning electron microscopy of monolayers scraped with scotch tape before sputtering showed that association of mitochondria to the vacuole is much less frequent than previously described. On the other hand, all parasitophorous vacuoles were surrounded by elements of the endoplasmic reticulum. These data were complemented by observations by laser scanning microscopy using fluorescent probes from mitochondria and endoplasmic reticulum and reinforced by three-dimensional reconstruction from serial sections observed by transmission electron microscopy and labeling of mitochondria and endoplasmic reticulum by fluorescent probes.

Quantum dot immunocytochemical localization of somatostatin in somatostatinoma by Widefield Epifluorescence, super-resolution light, and immunoelectron microscopy.

PubMed

Killingsworth, Murray C; Lai, Ken; Wu, Xiaojuan; Yong, Jim L C; Lee, C Soon

2012-11-01

Quantum dot nanocrystal probes (QDs) have been used for detection of somatostatin hormone in secretory granules of somatostatinoma tumor cells by immunofluorescence light microscopy, super-resolution light microscopy, and immunoelectron microscopy. Immunostaining for all modalities was done using sections taken from an epoxy resin-embedded tissue specimen and a similar labeling protocol. This approach allowed assessment of labeling at light microscopy level before examination at super-resolution and electron microscopy level and was a significant aid in interpretation. Etching of ultrathin sections with saturated sodium metaperiodate was a critical step presumably able to retrieve some tissue antigenicity masked by processing in epoxy resin. Immunofluorescence microscopy of QD-immunolabeled sections showed somatostatin hormone localization in cytoplasmic granules. Some variable staining of tumor gland-like structures appeared related to granule maturity and dispersal of granule contents within the tumor cell cytoplasm. Super-resolution light microscopy demonstrated localization of somatostatin within individual secretory granules to be heterogeneous, and this staining pattern was confirmed by immunoelectron microscopy.

Quantum Dot Immunocytochemical Localization of Somatostatin in Somatostatinoma by Widefield Epifluorescence, Super-resolution Light, and Immunoelectron Microscopy

PubMed Central

Lai, Ken; Wu, Xiaojuan; Yong, Jim L. C.; Lee, C. Soon

2012-01-01

Quantum dot nanocrystal probes (QDs) have been used for detection of somatostatin hormone in secretory granules of somatostatinoma tumor cells by immunofluorescence light microscopy, super-resolution light microscopy, and immunoelectron microscopy. Immunostaining for all modalities was done using sections taken from an epoxy resin-embedded tissue specimen and a similar labeling protocol. This approach allowed assessment of labeling at light microscopy level before examination at super-resolution and electron microscopy level and was a significant aid in interpretation. Etching of ultrathin sections with saturated sodium metaperiodate was a critical step presumably able to retrieve some tissue antigenicity masked by processing in epoxy resin. Immunofluorescence microscopy of QD-immunolabeled sections showed somatostatin hormone localization in cytoplasmic granules. Some variable staining of tumor gland-like structures appeared related to granule maturity and dispersal of granule contents within the tumor cell cytoplasm. Super-resolution light microscopy demonstrated localization of somatostatin within individual secretory granules to be heterogeneous, and this staining pattern was confirmed by immunoelectron microscopy. PMID:22899862

Mechanism of morphology transformation during annealing of nanostructured gold films on glass.

PubMed

Karakouz, Tanya; Tesler, Alexander B; Sannomiya, Takumi; Feldman, Yishay; Vaskevich, Alexander; Rubinstein, Israel

2013-04-07

Nanostructured, just-percolated gold films were prepared by evaporation on bare glass. Annealing of the films at temperatures close to or higher than the softening temperature of the glass substrate induces morphological transformation to discrete Au islands and gradual embedding of the formed islands in the glass. The mechanism and kinetics of these processes are studied here using a combination of in situ high-temperature optical spectroscopy; ex situ characterization of the island shape by high-resolution scanning electron microscopy (HRSEM), atomic force microcopy (AFM) and cross-sectional transmission electron microscopy (TEM); and numerical simulations of transmission spectra using the Multiple Multipole Program (MMP) approach. It is shown that the morphological transformation of just-percolated, 10 nm (nominal thickness) Au films evaporated on glass and annealed at 600 °C, i.e., in the vicinity of the substrate glass transition temperature (Tg = 557 °C), proceeds via three processes exhibiting different time scales: (i) fast recrystallization and dewetting, leading to formation of single-crystalline islands (minutes); the initial spectrum characteristic of a continuous Au film is transformed to that of an island film, displaying a surface plasmon (SP) absorption band. (ii) Reshaping and faceting of the single-crystalline islands accompanied by formation of circumferential glass rims around them (first few hours); the overall optical response shows a blue shift of the SP band. (iii) Gradual island embedding in the glass substrate (tens of hours), seen as a characteristic red shift of the SP band. The influence of the annealing atmosphere (air, vacuum) on the embedding process is found to be minor. Numerical modeling of the extinction cross-section corresponding to the morphological transformations during island recrystallization and embedding is in qualitative agreement with the experimental data.

Endemic Scrub Typhus-like Illness, Chile

DTIC Science & Technology

2011-09-01

from Asia. The primary hosts for Rickettsia species are arthropods that can also act as disease vectors for humans and other vertebrates. Ticks...are vectors for most rickettsioses caused by spotted fever group rickettsiae . Alternative vectors for rickettsiae are well known, including fl eas as...sample recovered from a paraffi n- embedded sample for electron microscopy, showed round and oval rickettsia -like microorganisms, maximum diameter

Characterization of CuCl quantum dots grown in NaCl single crystals via optical measurements, X-ray diffraction, and transmission electron microscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Miyajima, Kensuke; Akatsu, Tatsuro; Itoh, Ken

2018-05-01

We evaluated the crystal size, shape, and alignment of the lattice planes of CuCl quantum dots (QDs) embedded in NaCl single crystals by optical measurements, X-ray diffraction (XRD) patterns, and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). We obtained, for the first time, an XRD pattern and TEM images for CuCl QDs in NaCl crystals. The XRD pattern showed that the lattice planes of the CuCl QDs were parallel to those of the NaCl crystals. In addition, the size of the QDs was estimated from the diffraction width. It was apparent from the TEM images that almost all CuCl QDs were polygonal, although some cubic QDs were present. The mean size and size distribution of the QDs were also obtained. The dot size obtained from optical measurements, XRD, and TEM image were almost consistent. Our new findings can help to reveal the growth mechanism of semiconductor QDs embedded in a crystallite matrix. In addition, this work will play an important role in progressing the study of optical phenomena originating from assembled semiconductor QDs.

Atomic layer deposition of high-density Pt nanodots on Al2O3 film using (MeCp)Pt(Me)3 and O2 precursors for nonvolatile memory applications

PubMed Central

2013-01-01

Pt nanodots have been grown on Al2O3 film via atomic layer deposition (ALD) using (MeCp)Pt(Me)3 and O2 precursors. Influence of the substrate temperature, pulse time of (MeCp)Pt(Me)3, and deposition cycles on ALD Pt has been studied comprehensively by scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. Therefore, Pt nanodots with a high density of approximately 2 × 1012 cm-2 have been achieved under optimized conditions: 300°C substrate temperature, 1 s pulse time of (MeCp)Pt(Me)3, and 70 deposition cycles. Further, metal-oxide-semiconductor capacitors with Pt nanodots embedded in ALD Al2O3 dielectric have been fabricated and characterized electrically, indicating noticeable electron trapping capacity, efficient programmable and erasable characteristics, and good charge retention. PMID:23413837

Combined scanning transmission electron microscopy tilt- and focal series.

PubMed

Dahmen, Tim; Baudoin, Jean-Pierre; Lupini, Andrew R; Kübel, Christian; Slusallek, Philipp; de Jonge, Niels

2014-04-01

In this study, a combined tilt- and focal series is proposed as a new recording scheme for high-angle annular dark-field scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM) tomography. Three-dimensional (3D) data were acquired by mechanically tilting the specimen, and recording a through-focal series at each tilt direction. The sample was a whole-mount macrophage cell with embedded gold nanoparticles. The tilt-focal algebraic reconstruction technique (TF-ART) is introduced as a new algorithm to reconstruct tomograms from such combined tilt- and focal series. The feasibility of TF-ART was demonstrated by 3D reconstruction of the experimental 3D data. The results were compared with a conventional STEM tilt series of a similar sample. The combined tilt- and focal series led to smaller "missing wedge" artifacts, and a higher axial resolution than obtained for the STEM tilt series, thus improving on one of the main issues of tilt series-based electron tomography.

Electron microscopic demonstration of hormone-producing metastatic carcinoma of the choroid from the bronchus.

PubMed

Amemiya, T; Nomura, S

1975-01-01

Clinical, laboratory and pathological findings of a patient in bronchial carcinoma with choroidal metastasis were presented. X-ray examination of the chest suggested the tumor shadow in the posterior segmental bronchus of the right upper lobe of the lung (r-B2b), while funduscopy and fluorescein angiography revealed the presence of choroidal tumor. ACTH levels in tumor tissues at autopsy and in serum were measured and definitely demonstrated and elevated. Histopathologically, the primary lesion was r-B2b and diagnosed as a mucocellular type of adenocarcinoma. The choroidal lesion was metastatic carcinoma. Electron microscopic examination of the choroidal lesion reembedded for electron microscopy from celloidin-embedded materials for light microscopy could reveal the presence of characteristic cytoplasmic granules referred to as neurosecretory-type granules. It is extremely rare that a hormone-producing metastatic carcinoma of the choroid from the bronchus has been proved.

Observations on Si-based micro-clusters embedded in TaN thin film deposited by co-sputtering with oxygen contamination

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

Lee, Young Mi; Jung, Min-Sang; Choi, Duck-Kyun, E-mail: duck@hanyang.ac.kr, E-mail: mcjung@oist.jp

2015-08-15

Using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and high-resolution x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy with the synchrotron radiation we investigated Si-based micro-clusters embedded in TaSiN thin films having oxygen contamination. TaSiN thin films were deposited by co-sputtering on fixed or rotated substrates and with various power conditions of TaN and Si targets. Three types of embedded micro-clusters with the chemical states of pure Si, SiO{sub x}-capped Si, and SiO{sub 2}-capped Si were observed and analyzed using SEM and Si 2p and Ta 4f core-level spectra were derived. Their different resistivities are presumably due to the different chemical states and densities of Si-based micro-clusters.

Free form fabricated features on CoCr implants with and without hydroxyapatite coating in vivo: a comparative study of bone contact and bone growth induction.

PubMed

Grandfield, Kathryn; Palmquist, Anders; Gonçalves, Stéphane; Taylor, Andy; Taylor, Mark; Emanuelsson, Lena; Thomsen, Peter; Engqvist, Håkan

2011-04-01

The current study evaluates the in vivo response to free form fabricated cobalt chromium (CoCr) implants with and without hydroxyapatite (HA) plasma sprayed coatings. The free form fabrication method allowed for integration of complicated pyramidal surface structures on the cylindrical implant. Implants were press fit into the tibial metaphysis of nine New Zealand white rabbits. Animals were sacrificed and implants were removed and embedded. Histological analysis, histomorphometry and electron microscopy studies were performed. Focused ion beam was used to prepare thin sections for high-resolution transmission electron microscopy examination. The fabricated features allowed for effective bone in-growth and firm fixation after 6 weeks. Transmission electron microscopy investigations revealed intimate bone-implant integration at the nanometre scale for the HA coated samples. In addition, histomorphometry revealed a significantly higher bone contact on HA coated implants compared to native CoCr implants. It is concluded that free form fabrication in combination with HA coating improves the early fixation in bone under experimental conditions.

Synthesis of zirconia (ZrO2) nanowires via chemical vapor deposition

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Baek, M. K.; Park, S. J.; Choi, D. J.

2017-02-01

Monoclinic zirconia nanowires were synthesized by chemical vapor deposition using ZrCl4 powder as a starting material at 1200 °C and 760 Torr. Graphite was employed as a substrate, and an Au thin film was pre-deposited on the graphite as a catalyst. The zirconia nanostructure morphology was observed through scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy. Based on X-ray diffraction, selected area electron diffraction, and Raman spectroscopy data, the resulting crystal structure was found to be single crystalline monoclinic zirconia. The homogeneous distributions of Zr, O and Au were studied by scanning transmission electron microscopy with energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy mapping, and there was no metal droplet at the nanowire tips despite the use of an Au metal catalyst. This result is apart from that of conventional metal catalyzed nanowires.

Secretory glands and microvascular systems imaged in aqueous solution by atmospheric scanning electron microscopy (ASEM).

PubMed

Yamazawa, Toshiko; Nakamura, Naotoshi; Sato, Mari; Sato, Chikara

2016-12-01

Exocrine glands, e.g., salivary and pancreatic glands, play an important role in digestive enzyme secretion, while endocrine glands, e.g., pancreatic islets, secrete hormones that regulate blood glucose levels. The dysfunction of these secretory organs immediately leads to various diseases, such as diabetes or Sjögren's syndrome, by poorly understood mechanisms. Gland-related diseases have been studied by optical microscopy (OM), and at higher resolution by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) of Epon embedded samples, which necessitates hydrophobic sample pretreatment. Here, we report the direct observation of tissue in aqueous solution by atmospheric scanning electron microscopy (ASEM). Salivary glands, lacrimal glands, and pancreas were fixed, sectioned into slabs, stained with phosphotungstic acid (PTA), and inspected in radical scavenger d-glucose solution from below by an inverted scanning electron microscopy (SEM), guided by optical microscopy from above to target the tissue substructures. A 2- to 3-µm specimen thickness was visualized by the SEM. In secretory cells, cytoplasmic vesicles and other organelles were clearly imaged at high resolution, and the former could be classified according to the degree of PTA staining. In islets of Langerhans, the microvascular system used as an outlet by the secretory cells was also clearly observed. Microvascular system is also critically involved in the onset of diabetic complications and was clearly visible in subcutaneous tissue imaged by ASEM. The results suggest the use of in-solution ASEM for histology and to study vesicle secretion systems. Further, the high-throughput of ASEM makes it a potential tool for the diagnosis of exocrine and endocrine-related diseases. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Severe head lice infestation in an Andean mummy of Arica, Chile.

PubMed

Arriaza, Bernardo; Orellana, Nancy C; Barbosa, Helene S; Menna-Barreto, Rubem F S; Araújo, Adauto; Standen, Vivien

2012-04-01

Pediculus humanus capitis is an ancient human parasite, probably inherited from pre-hominid times. Infestation appears as a recurrent health problem throughout history, including in pre-Columbian populations. Here, we describe and discuss the occurrence of pre-Columbian pediculosis in the Andean region of the Atacama Desert. Using a light microscope and scanning electron microscopy, we studied a highly infested Maitas Chiribaya mummy from Arica in northern Chile dating to 670-990 calibrated years A.D. The scalp and hair of the mummy were almost completely covered by nits and adult head lice. Low- and high-vacuum scanning electron microscopy revealed a well-preserved morphology of the eggs. In addition, the excellent preservation of the nearly 1,000-yr-old adult head lice allowed us to observe and characterize the head, antennae, thorax, abdomen, and legs. Leg segmentation, abdominal spiracles, and sexual dimorphism also were clearly observed. The preservation of the ectoparasites allowed us to examine the micromorphology using scanning electron microscopy; the opercula, aeropyles, and spiracles were clearly visible. This case study provides strong evidence that head lice were a common nuisance for Andean farmers and herders. Head lice are transmitted by direct head-to-head contact; thus, this ancient farmer and herder was potentially infesting other people. The present study contributes to the body of research focusing on lice in ancient populations.

New advances in scanning microscopy and its application to study parasitic protozoa.

PubMed

de Souza, Wanderley; Attias, Marcia

2018-07-01

Scanning electron microscopy has been used to observe and study parasitic protozoa for at least 40 years. However, field emission electron sources, as well as improvements in lenses and detectors, brought the resolution power of scanning electron microscopes (SEM) to a new level. Parallel to the refinement of instruments, protocols for preservation of the ultrastructure, immunolabeling, exposure of cytoskeleton and inner structures of parasites and host cells were developed. This review is focused on protozoan parasites of medical and veterinary relevance, e.g., Toxoplasma gondii, Tritrichomonas foetus, Giardia intestinalis, and Trypanosoma cruzi, compilating the main achievements in describing the fine ultrastructure of their surface, cytoskeleton and interaction with host cells. Two new resources, namely, Helium Ion Microscopy (HIM) and Slice and View, using either Focused Ion Beam (FIB) abrasion or Microtome Serial Sectioning (MSS) within the microscope chamber, combined to backscattered electron imaging of fixed (chemically or by quick freezing followed by freeze substitution and resin embedded samples is bringing an exponential amount of valuable information. In HIM there is no need of conductive coating and the depth of field is much higher than in any field emission SEM. As for FIB- and MSS-SEM, high resolution 3-D models of areas and volumes larger than any other technique allows can be obtained. The main results achieved with all these technological tools and some protocols for sample preparation are included in this review. In addition, we included some results obtained with environmental/low vacuum scanning microscopy and cryo-scanning electron microscopy, both promising, but not yet largely employed SEM modalities. Copyright © 2018. Published by Elsevier Inc.

Characterization of lignin during oxidative and hydrothermal pre-treatment processes of wheat straw and corn stover.

PubMed

Kaparaju, Prasad; Felby, Claus

2010-05-01

The objective of the study was to characterize and map changes in lignin during hydrothermal and wet explosion pre-treatments of wheat straw and corn stover. Chemical composition, microscopic (atomic force microscopy and scanning electron microscopy) and spectroscopic (attenuated total reflectance Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, ATR-FTIR) analyses were performed. Results showed that both pre-treatments improved the cellulose and lignin content with substantial removal of hemicellulose in the pre-treated biomasses. These values were slightly higher for hydrothermal compared to wet explosion pre-treatment. ATR-FTIR analyses also confirmed these results. Microscopic analysis showed that pre-treatments affected the biomass by partial difibration. Lignin deposition on the surface of the hydrothermally pre-treated fibre was very distinct while severe loss of fibril integrity was noticed with wet exploded fibre. The present study thus revealed that the lignin cannot be removed by the studied pre-treatments. However, both pre-treatments improved the accessibility of the biomass towards enzymatic hydrolysis. Copyright 2009 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Ultrastructure studies on the papillae and the nonciliated sensory receptors of adult Spirometra erinacei (Cestoda, Pseudophyllidea).

PubMed

Okino, T; Hatsushika, R

1994-01-01

The small numerous papillae on the ventral surface of the gravid proglottid of adult Spirometra erinacei were studied by scanning electron microscopy. The arrangement of clumps of papillae was recognized on the surface of the central portion around the genital atrium, with lateral clumps being located above a pair of longitudinal nerve cords and marginal ones, on both sides of the proglottid. By transmission electron microscopy, two types of nonciliated sensory receptors were observed within the papillae. The type I, single receptor was embedded within a papilla. This dome-like sensory receptor contained two electron-dense collars and four rootlets surrounded by numerous thin filaments. The type II receptor was found arranged in groups in the area between the papillae, and the apical end was exposed to the external environment. This simple, club-like sensory receptor contained electron-lucent vesicles and microtubules. We believe that the papillae play an important role in cross-insemination.

Correlative and integrated light and electron microscopy of in-resin GFP fluorescence, used to localise diacylglycerol in mammalian cells

PubMed Central

Peddie, Christopher J.; Blight, Ken; Wilson, Emma; Melia, Charlotte; Marrison, Jo; Carzaniga, Raffaella; Domart, Marie-Charlotte; O׳Toole, Peter; Larijani, Banafshe; Collinson, Lucy M.

2014-01-01

Fluorescence microscopy of GFP-tagged proteins is a fundamental tool in cell biology, but without seeing the structure of the surrounding cellular space, functional information can be lost. Here we present a protocol that preserves GFP and mCherry fluorescence in mammalian cells embedded in resin with electron contrast to reveal cellular ultrastructure. Ultrathin in-resin fluorescence (IRF) sections were imaged simultaneously for fluorescence and electron signals in an integrated light and scanning electron microscope. We show, for the first time, that GFP is stable and active in resin sections in vacuo. We applied our protocol to study the subcellular localisation of diacylglycerol (DAG), a modulator of membrane morphology and membrane dynamics in nuclear envelope assembly. We show that DAG is localised to the nuclear envelope, nucleoplasmic reticulum and curved tips of the Golgi apparatus. With these developments, we demonstrate that integrated imaging is maturing into a powerful tool for accurate molecular localisation to structure. PMID:24637200

Modulation of electrical potential and conductivity in an atomic-layer semiconductor heterojunction

PubMed Central

Kobayashi, Yu; Yoshida, Shoji; Sakurada, Ryuji; Takashima, Kengo; Yamamoto, Takahiro; Saito, Tetsuki; Konabe, Satoru; Taniguchi, Takashi; Watanabe, Kenji; Maniwa, Yutaka; Takeuchi, Osamu; Shigekawa, Hidemi; Miyata, Yasumitsu

2016-01-01

Semiconductor heterojunction interfaces have been an important topic, both in modern solid state physics and in electronics and optoelectronics applications. Recently, the heterojunctions of atomically-thin transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDCs) are expected to realize one-dimensional (1D) electronic systems at their heterointerfaces due to their tunable electronic properties. Herein, we report unique conductivity enhancement and electrical potential modulation of heterojunction interfaces based on TMDC bilayers consisted of MoS2 and WS2. Scanning tunneling microscopy/spectroscopy analyses showed the formation of 1D confining potential (potential barrier) in the valence (conduction) band, as well as bandgap narrowing around the heterointerface. The modulation of electronic properties were also probed as the increase of current in conducting atomic force microscopy. Notably, the observed band bending can be explained by the presence of 1D fixed charges around the heterointerface. The present findings indicate that the atomic layer heterojunctions provide a novel approach to realizing tunable 1D electrical potential for embedded quantum wires and ultrashort barriers of electrical transport. PMID:27515115

Extremely thin layer plastification for focused-ion beam scanning electron microscopy: an improved method to study cell surfaces and organelles of cultured cells.

PubMed

VAN Donselaar, E G; Dorresteijn, B; Popov-Čeleketić, D; VAN DE Wetering, W J; Verrips, T C; Boekhout, T; Schneijdenberg, C T W M; Xenaki, A T; VAN DER Krift, T P; Müller, W H

2018-03-25

Since the recent boost in the usage of electron microscopy in life-science research, there is a great need for new methods. Recently minimal resin embedding methods have been successfully introduced in the sample preparation for focused-ion beam scanning electron microscopy (FIB-SEM). In these methods several possibilities are given to remove as much resin as possible from the surface of cultured cells or multicellular organisms. Here we introduce an alternative way in the minimal resin embedding method to remove excess of resin from two widely different cell types by the use of Mascotte filter paper. Our goal in correlative light and electron microscopic studies of immunogold-labelled breast cancer SKBR3 cells was to visualise gold-labelled HER2 plasma membrane proteins as well as the intracellular structures of flat and round cells. We found a significant difference (p < 0.001) in the number of gold particles of selected cells per 0.6 μm 2 cell surface: on average a flat cell contained 2.46 ± 1.98 gold particles, and a round cell 5.66 ± 2.92 gold particles. Moreover, there was a clear difference in the subcellular organisation of these two cells. The round SKBR3 cell contained many organelles, such as mitochondria, Golgi and endoplasmic reticulum, when compared with flat SKBR3 cells. Our next goal was to visualise crosswall associated organelles, septal pore caps, of Rhizoctonia solani fungal cells by the combined use of a heavy metal staining and our extremely thin layer plastification (ETLP) method. At low magnifications this resulted into easily finding septa which appeared as bright crosswalls in the back-scattered electron mode in the scanning electron microscope. Then, a septum was selected for FIB-SEM. Cross-sectioned views clearly revealed the perforate septal pore cap of R. solani next to other structures, such as mitochondria, endoplasmic reticulum, lipid bodies, dolipore septum, and the pore channel. As the ETLP method was applied on two widely different cell types, the use of the ETLP method will be beneficial to correlative studies of other cell model systems and multicellular organisms. © 2018 The Authors. Journal of Microscopy published by JohnWiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Royal Microscopical Society.

Advanced electron microscopy methods for the analysis of MgB2 superconductor

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Birajdar, B.; Peranio, N.; Eibl, O.

2008-02-01

Advanced electron microscopy methods used for the analysis of superconducting MgB2 wires and tapes are described. The wires and tapes were prepared by the powder in tube method using different processing technologies and thoroughly characterised for their superconducting properties within the HIPERMAG project. Microstructure analysis on μm to nm length scales is necessary to understand the superconducting properties of MgB2. For the MgB2 phase analysis on μm scale an analytical SEM, and for the analysis on nm scale a energy-filtered STEM is used. Both the microscopes were equipped with EDX detector and field emission gun. Electron microscopy and spectroscopy of MgB2 is challenging because of the boron analysis, carbon and oxygen contamination, and the presence of large number of secondary phases. Advanced electron microscopy involves, combined SEM, EPMA and TEM analysis with artefact free sample preparation, elemental mapping and chemical quantification of point spectra. Details of the acquisition conditions and achieved accuracy are presented. Ex-situ wires show oxygen-free MgB2 colonies (a colony is a dense arrangement of several MgB2 grains) embedded in a porous and oxygen-rich matrix, introducing structural granularity. In comparison, in-situ wires are generally more dense, but show inhibited MgB2 phase formation with significantly higher fraction of B-rich secondary phases. SiC additives in the in-situ wires forms Mg2Si secondary phases. The advanced electron microscopy has been used to extract the microstructure parameters like colony size, B-rich secondary phase fraction, O mole fraction and MgB2 grain size, and establish a microstructure-critical current density model [1]. In summary, conventional secondary electron imaging in SEM and diffraction contrast imaging in the TEM are by far not sufficient and advanced electron microscopy methods are essential for the analysis of superconducting MgB2 wires and tapes.

Correlating microscopy techniques and ToF-SIMS analysis of fully grown mammalian oocytes.

PubMed

Gulin, Alexander; Nadtochenko, Victor; Astafiev, Artyom; Pogorelova, Valentina; Rtimi, Sami; Pogorelov, Alexander

2016-06-20

The 2D-molecular thin film analysis protocol for fully grown mice oocytes is described using an innovative approach. Time-of-flight secondary ion mass spectrometry (ToF-SIMS), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM) and optical microscopy imaging were applied to the same mice oocyte section on the same sample holder. A freeze-dried mice oocyte was infiltrated into embedding media, e.g. Epon, and then was cut with a microtome and 2 μm thick sections were transferred onto an ITO coated conductive glass. Mammalian oocytes can contain "nucleolus-like body" (NLB) units and ToF-SIMS analysis was used to investigate the NLB composition. The ion-spatial distribution in the cell components was identified and compared with the images acquired by SEM, AFM and optical microscopy. This study presents a significant advancement in cell embryology, cell physiology and cancer-cell biochemistry.

Correlative microscopy of detergent granules.

PubMed

van Dalen, G; Nootenboom, P; Heussen, P C M

2011-03-01

The microstructure of detergent products for textile cleaning determines to a large extent the physical properties of these products. Correlative microscopy was used to reveal the microstructure by reconciling images obtained by scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive X-ray analysis, X-ray microtomography and Fourier transform infrared microscopy. These techniques were applied on the same location of a subsample of a spray-dried detergent base powder embedded in polyacrylate. In this way, the three-dimensional internal and external structure of detergent granules could be investigated from milli to nano scale with detailed spatial information about the components present. This will generate knowledge how to design optimal microstructures for laundry products to obtain product properties demanded by the market. This method is also very useful for other powder systems used in a large variety of industries (e.g. for pharmaceutical, food, ceramic and metal industries). © 2010 The Authors Journal of Microscopy © 2010 The Royal Microscopical Society.

Fabrication and characterization of aerosol-jet printed strain sensors for multifunctional composite structures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhao, Da; Liu, Tao; Zhang, Mei; Liang, Richard; Wang, Ben

2012-11-01

Traditional multifunctional composite structures are produced by embedding parasitic parts, such as foil sensors, optical fibers and bulky connectors. As a result, the mechanical properties of the composites, especially the interlaminar shear strength (ILSS), could be largely undermined. In the present study, we demonstrated an innovative aerosol-jet printing technology for printing electronics inside composite structures without degrading the mechanical properties. Using the maskless fine feature deposition (below 10 μm) characteristics of this printing technology and a pre-cure protocol, strain sensors were successfully printed onto carbon fiber prepregs to enable fabricating composites with intrinsic sensing capabilities. The degree of pre-cure of the carbon fiber prepreg on which strain sensors were printed was demonstrated to be critical. Without pre-curing, the printed strain sensors were unable to remain intact due to the resin flow during curing. The resin flow-induced sensor deformation can be overcome by introducing 10% degree of cure of the prepreg. In this condition, the fabricated composites with printed strain sensors showed almost no mechanical degradation (short beam shearing ILSS) as compared to the control samples. Also, the failure modes examined by optical microscopy showed no difference. The resistance change of the printed strain sensors in the composite structures were measured under a cyclic loading and proved to be a reliable mean strain gauge factor of 2.2 ± 0.06, which is comparable to commercial foil metal strain gauge.

Electron microscopic diagnosis of human flavivirus encephalitis: use of confocal microscopy as an aid.

PubMed

Chu, C T; Howell, D N; Morgenlander, J C; Hulette, C M; McLendon, R E; Miller, S E

1999-10-01

The distinction between intracranial viral infections and inflammatory conditions requiring immunosuppression is important. Although specific laboratory reagents are readily available for some viruses, diagnosis of arbovirus infection is more difficult. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) theoretically allows identification of viral particles independent of reagent availability, but it has limited sensitivity. We report two cases of human flavivirus encephalitis diagnosed by TEM. Laser scanning confocal microscopy (LSCM) was used in one case to survey unembedded tissue slices for focal abnormalities, from which fragments smaller than 1 mm2 were excised for epoxy embedding. This facilitated TEM identification of intracytoplasmic, budding, 35-40 nm spherical virus particles, confirmed by serology as St. Louis encephalitis. In contrast to mosquitoes and newborn mice, in which high viral loads are associated with minimal tissue responses, these biopsies showed florid angiodestructive inflammation and microgliosis, with rare virions in necrotic perivascular cells and astrocytes. To our knowledge, this represents the first ultrastructural study of St. Louis encephalitis in humans, indicating the potential value of LSCM-aided TEM.

Electronic components embedded in a single graphene nanoribbon.

PubMed

Jacobse, P H; Kimouche, A; Gebraad, T; Ervasti, M M; Thijssen, J M; Liljeroth, P; Swart, I

2017-07-25

The use of graphene in electronic devices requires a band gap, which can be achieved by creating nanostructures such as graphene nanoribbons. A wide variety of atomically precise graphene nanoribbons can be prepared through on-surface synthesis, bringing the concept of graphene nanoribbon electronics closer to reality. For future applications it is beneficial to integrate contacts and more functionality directly into single ribbons by using heterostructures. Here, we use the on-surface synthesis approach to fabricate a metal-semiconductor junction and a tunnel barrier in a single graphene nanoribbon consisting of 5- and 7-atom wide segments. We characterize the atomic scale geometry and electronic structure by combined atomic force microscopy, scanning tunneling microscopy, and conductance measurements complemented by density functional theory and transport calculations. These junctions are relevant for developing contacts in all-graphene nanoribbon devices and creating diodes and transistors, and act as a first step toward complete electronic devices built into a single graphene nanoribbon.Adding functional electronic components to graphene nanoribbons requires precise control over their atomic structure. Here, the authors use a bottom-up approach to build a metal-semiconductor junction and a tunnel barrier directly into a single graphene nanoribbon, an exciting development for graphene-based electronic devices.

Suppression of planar defects in the molecular beam epitaxy of GaAs/ErAs/GaAs heterostructures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Crook, Adam M.; Nair, Hari P.; Ferrer, Domingo A.; Bank, Seth R.

2011-08-01

We present a growth method that overcomes the mismatch in rotational symmetry of ErAs and conventional III-V semiconductors, allowing for epitaxially integrated semimetal/semiconductor heterostructures. Transmission electron microscopy and reflection high-energy electron diffraction reveal defect-free overgrowth of ErAs layers, consisting of >2× the total amount of ErAs that can be embedded with conventional layer-by-layer growth methods. We utilize epitaxial ErAs nanoparticles, overgrown with GaAs, as a seed to grow full films of ErAs. Growth proceeds by diffusion of erbium atoms through the GaAs spacer, which remains registered to the underlying substrate, preventing planar defect formation during subsequent GaAs growth. This growth method is promising for metal/semiconductor heterostructures that serve as embedded Ohmic contacts to epitaxial layers and epitaxially integrated active plasmonic devices.

Analysis of the Henze precipitate from the blood cells of the ascidian Phallusia mammillata

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ciancio, Aurelio; Scippa, Silvia; Nette, Geoffrey; De Vincentiis, Mario

The Henze precipitate, a peculiar blue-green microparticulate obtained by lysis of the blood cells of the ascidian Phallusia mammillata (Protochordata), was investigated with atomic force microscopy (AFM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray microanalysis. The precipitate was collected from the Henze solution, an unstable red-brown product obtained by treating blood with distilled water, whose degradation yields a characteristic blue-green product. The microparticulates measured 50-100 µm in diameter and appeared irregular in shape. SEM examination showed smooth, roughly round boundaries. The microparticulate surface examined with AFM appeared as an irregular matrix formed by 70-320-nm-wide mammillate composites, including and embedding small (500-800 nm wide) crystal-like multilayered formations. X- ray analysis showed that the elements present in these same precipitates were mainly C, Si, Al and O. The microparticulate composition appeared close to those of natural waxes or lacquers, embedding amorphous silicates and/or other Si-Al components. The unusual occurrence of Si in ascidian blood and its role are discussed.

Evidence of interfacial charge trapping mechanism in polyaniline/reduced graphene oxide nanocomposites

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

Islam, Rakibul; Brun, Jean-François; Roussel, Frederick, E-mail: frederick.roussel@univ-lille1.fr

Relaxation mechanisms in polyaniline (PANI)/Reduced Graphene Oxide (RGO) nanocomposites are investigated using broad band dielectric spectroscopy. The multilayered nanostructural features of the composites and the intimate interactions between PANI and RGO are evidenced by field emission scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and Raman spectroscopy. Increasing the RGO fraction in the composites results in a relaxation process observed at a frequency of ca. 5 kHz. This mechanism is associated with an electrical charge trapping phenomenon occurring at the PANI/RGO interfaces. The dielectric relaxation processes are interpreted according to the Sillars approach and the results are consistent with the presence ofmore » conducting prolate spheroids (RGO) embedded into a polymeric matrix (PANI). Dielectric permittivity data are analyzed within the framework of the Kohlrausch-William-Watts model, evidencing a Debye-like relaxation process.« less

Cement lines of secondary osteons in human bone are not mineral-deficient: new data in a historical perspective.

PubMed

Skedros, John G; Holmes, Jennifer L; Vajda, Eric G; Bloebaum, Roy D

2005-09-01

Using qualitative backscattered electron (BSE) imaging and quantitative energy dispersive X-ray (EDX) spectroscopy, some investigators have concluded that cement (reversal) lines located at the periphery of secondary osteons are poorly mineralized viscous interfaces with respect to surrounding bone. This conclusion contradicts historical observations of apparent highly mineralized (or collagen-deficient) cement lines in microradiographs. Such conclusions, however, may stem from unrecognized artifacts that can occur during scanning electron microscopy. These include specimen degradation due to high-energy beams and the sampling of electron interaction volumes that extend beyond target locations during EDX analysis. This study used quantitative BSE imaging and EDX analysis, each with relatively lower-energy beams, to test the hypothesis that cement lines are poorly mineralized. Undemineralized adult human femoral diaphyses (n = 8) and radial diaphyses (n = 5) were sectioned transversely, embedded in polymethyl methacrylate, and imaged in a scanning electron microscope for BSE and EDX analyses. Unembedded samples were also evaluated. Additional thin embedded samples were stained and evaluated with light microscopy and correlated BSE imaging. BSE analyses showed the consistent presence of a bright line (higher atomic number) coincident with the classical location and description of the cement line. This may represent relative hypermineralization or, alternatively, collagen deficiency with respect to surrounding bone. EDX analyses of cement lines showed either higher Ca content or equivalent Ca content when compared to distant osteonal and interstitial bone. These data reject the hypothesis that cement lines of secondary osteons are poorly mineralized. Copyright 2005 Wiley-Liss, Inc

Fabrication and characterisation of embedded metal nanostructures by ion implantation with nanoporous anodic alumina masks

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Guan, Wei; Peng, Nianhua; Jeynes, Christopher; Ghatak, Jay; Peng, Yong; Ross, Ian M.; Bhatta, Umananda M.; Inkson, Beverley J.; Möbus, Günter

2013-07-01

Lateral ordered Co, Pt and Co/Pt nanostructures were fabricated in SiO2 and Si3N4 substrates by high fluence metal ion implantation through periodic nanochannel membrane masks based on anodic aluminium oxides (AAO). The quality of nanopatterning transfer defined by various AAO masks in different substrates was examined by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) in both imaging and spectroscopy modes.

Carbon Nanotubes Embedded in Oriented Polymer Nanofibers by Electrospinning

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cohen, Yachin; Dror, Yael; Khalfin, Rafail L.; Salalha, Wael; Yarin, Alexander L.; Zussman, Eyal

2004-03-01

The electrospinning process was used successfully to fabricate nanofibers of poly(ethylene oxide) [PEO] in which carbon nanotubes, either multi-walled (MWCNT) or single-walled (SWCNT) are embedded. MWCNTs were dispersed in water using SDS or Gum Arabic - a highly branched polyelectrolyte. Aqueous dispersion of SWCNT's was achieved using an alternating copolymer of styrene and maleic anhydride, hydrolyzed with NaOH. The focus of this work is on the development of axial orientations in the multi-component nanofibers. The degree of orientation of polymers, surfactants and nanotubes was studied using X-ray diffraction and transmission electron microscopy. Individual nanotubes were successfully embedded in the polymer nanofibers with good axial alignment. A high degree of alignment of PEO crystals and SDS layers was also found in the electrospun nanofibers containing SWCNT's. Oriented ropes of the nanofibers were fabricated in a converging electric field by a rotating disc with a tapered edge. These results can lead to further usage of the nanofibers with embedded carbon nanotubes in applications such as nano-scale energy storage devices.

Efficient linear phase contrast in scanning transmission electron microscopy with matched illumination and detector interferometry

DOE PAGES

Ophus, Colin; Ciston, Jim; Pierce, Jordan; ...

2016-02-29

The ability to image light elements in soft matter at atomic resolution enables unprecedented insight into the structure and properties of molecular heterostructures and beam-sensitive nanomaterials. In this study, we introduce a scanning transmission electron microscopy technique combining a pre-specimen phase plate designed to produce a probe with structured phase with a high-speed direct electron detector to generate nearly linear contrast images with high efficiency. We demonstrate this method by using both experiment and simulation to simultaneously image the atomic-scale structure of weakly scattering amorphous carbon and strongly scattering gold nanoparticles. Our method demonstrates strong contrast for both materials, makingmore » it a promising candidate for structural determination of heterogeneous soft/hard matter samples even at low electron doses comparable to traditional phase-contrast transmission electron microscopy. Ultimately, simulated images demonstrate the extension of this technique to the challenging problem of structural determination of biological material at the surface of inorganic crystals.« less

Efficient linear phase contrast in scanning transmission electron microscopy with matched illumination and detector interferometry.

PubMed

Ophus, Colin; Ciston, Jim; Pierce, Jordan; Harvey, Tyler R; Chess, Jordan; McMorran, Benjamin J; Czarnik, Cory; Rose, Harald H; Ercius, Peter

2016-02-29

The ability to image light elements in soft matter at atomic resolution enables unprecedented insight into the structure and properties of molecular heterostructures and beam-sensitive nanomaterials. In this study, we introduce a scanning transmission electron microscopy technique combining a pre-specimen phase plate designed to produce a probe with structured phase with a high-speed direct electron detector to generate nearly linear contrast images with high efficiency. We demonstrate this method by using both experiment and simulation to simultaneously image the atomic-scale structure of weakly scattering amorphous carbon and strongly scattering gold nanoparticles. Our method demonstrates strong contrast for both materials, making it a promising candidate for structural determination of heterogeneous soft/hard matter samples even at low electron doses comparable to traditional phase-contrast transmission electron microscopy. Simulated images demonstrate the extension of this technique to the challenging problem of structural determination of biological material at the surface of inorganic crystals.

Efficient linear phase contrast in scanning transmission electron microscopy with matched illumination and detector interferometry

PubMed Central

Ophus, Colin; Ciston, Jim; Pierce, Jordan; Harvey, Tyler R.; Chess, Jordan; McMorran, Benjamin J.; Czarnik, Cory; Rose, Harald H.; Ercius, Peter

2016-01-01

The ability to image light elements in soft matter at atomic resolution enables unprecedented insight into the structure and properties of molecular heterostructures and beam-sensitive nanomaterials. In this study, we introduce a scanning transmission electron microscopy technique combining a pre-specimen phase plate designed to produce a probe with structured phase with a high-speed direct electron detector to generate nearly linear contrast images with high efficiency. We demonstrate this method by using both experiment and simulation to simultaneously image the atomic-scale structure of weakly scattering amorphous carbon and strongly scattering gold nanoparticles. Our method demonstrates strong contrast for both materials, making it a promising candidate for structural determination of heterogeneous soft/hard matter samples even at low electron doses comparable to traditional phase-contrast transmission electron microscopy. Simulated images demonstrate the extension of this technique to the challenging problem of structural determination of biological material at the surface of inorganic crystals. PMID:26923483

Magnetoresistivity and microstructure of YBa2Cu3Oy prepared using planetary ball milling

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hamrita, A.; Ben Azzouz, F.; Madani, A.; Ben Salem, M.

2012-01-01

We have studied the microstructure and the magnetoresistivity of polycrystalline YBa2Cu3Oy (YBCO or Y-123 for brevity) embedded with nanoparticles of Y-deficient YBCO, generated by the planetary ball milling technique. Bulk samples were synthesized from a precursor YBCO powder, which was prepared from commercial high purity Y2O3, Ba2CO3 and CuO via a one-step annealing process in air at 950 °C. After planetary ball milling of the precursor, the powder was uniaxially pressed and subsequently annealed at 950 °C in air. Phase analysis by X-ray diffraction (XRD), granular structure examination by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), microstructure investigation by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) coupled with energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDXS) were carried out. TEM analyses show that nanoparticles of Y-deficient YBCO, generated by ball milling, are embedded in the superconducting matrix. Electrical resistance as a function of temperature, ρ(T), revealed that the zero resistance temperature, Tco, is 84.5 and 90 K for the milled and unmilled samples respectively. The milled ceramics exhibit a large magnetoresistance in weak magnetic fields at liquid nitrogen temperature. This attractive effect is of high significance as it makes these materials promising candidates for practical application in magnetic field sensor devices.

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

Trypanosoma cruzi Necrotizing Meningoencephalitis in a Venezuelan HIV+-AIDS Patient: Pathological Diagnosis Confirmed by PCR Using Formalin-Fixed- and Paraffin-Embedded-Tissues

PubMed Central

Rossi Spadafora, Marcello Salvatore; Céspedes, Ghislaine; Romero, Sandra; Fuentes, Isabel; Boada-Sucre, Alpidio A.; Cañavate, Carmen; Flores-Chávez, María

2014-01-01

Coinfections with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and infectious agents have been recognized since the early 90s. In the central nervous system (CNS) of HIV+ patients, parasitic protozoans like Toxoplasma gondii have been described as responsible for the space occupying lesions (SOL) developed. However, the involvement of Trypanosoma cruzi is also described but appears to be less frequent in acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) and transplant recipients, associated with necrotizing myocarditis and neurological symptoms related to the occurrence of necrotizing pseudotumoral encephalitis (NPE) and meningoencephalitis (NME). The present work aims to present a Venezuelan case of NME associated with the coinfection of HIV and a T. cruzi-like trypanosomatid as well as its evolution and diagnosis by histopathological techniques, electron microscopy, and PCR methods using formalin-fixed- (FF-) and paraffin-embedded- (PE-) tissues. Postmortem cytological studies of leptomeninges imprints reveal the presence of trypomastigotes of Trypanosoma sp. Histopathological and electron microscopy studies allowed us to identify an amastigote stage and to reject the involvement of other opportunistic microorganisms as the etiological agent of the SOL. The definitive confirmation of T. cruzi as the etiological agent was achieved by PCR suggesting that the NME by T. cruzi was due to a reactivation of Chagas' disease. PMID:25763312

Ultrastructure of Plant Leaf Cuticles in relation to Sample Preparation as Observed by Transmission Electron Microscopy

PubMed Central

Guzmán, Paula; Fernández, Victoria; García, María Luisa; Fernández, Agustín; Gil, Luis

2014-01-01

The leaf cuticular ultrastructure of some plant species has been examined by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) in only few studies. Attending to the different cuticle layers and inner structure, plant cuticles have been grouped into six general morphological types. With the aim of critically examining the effect of cuticle isolation and preparation for TEM analysis on cuticular ultrastructure, adaxial leaf cuticles of blue-gum eucalypt, grey poplar, and European pear were assessed, following a membrane science approach. The embedding and staining protocols affected the ultrastructure of the cuticles analysed. The solubility parameter, surface tension, and contact angles with water of pure Spurr's and LR-White resins were within a similar range. Differences were however estimated for resin : solvent mixtures, since Spurr's resin is combined with acetone and LR-White resin is mixed with ethanol. Given the composite hydrophilic and lipophilic nature of plant cuticles, the particular TEM tissue embedding and staining procedures employed may affect sample ultrastructure and the interpretation of the results in physicochemical and biological terms. It is concluded that tissue preparation procedures may be optimised to facilitate the observation of the micro- and nanostructure of cuticular layers and components with different degrees of polarity and hydrophobicity. PMID:24895682

Nonenzymatic glucose sensor based on renewable electrospun Ni nanoparticle-loaded carbon nanofiber paste electrode.

PubMed

Liu, Yang; Teng, Hong; Hou, Haoqing; You, Tianyan

2009-07-15

A novel nonenzymatic glucose sensor was developed based on the renewable Ni nanoparticle-loaded carbon nanofiber paste (NiCFP) electrode. The NiCF nanocomposite was prepared by combination of electrospinning technique with thermal treatment method. The scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) images showed that large amounts of spherical nanoparticles were well dispersed on the surface or embedded in the carbon nanofibers. And the nanoparticles were composed of Ni and NiO, as revealed by energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) and X-ray powder diffraction (XRD). In application to nonenzymatic glucose determination, the renewable NiCFP electrodes, which were constructed by simply mixing the electrospun nanocomposite with mineral oil, exhibited strong and fast amperometric response without being poisoned by chloride ions. Low detection limit of 1 microM with wide linear range from 2 microM to 2.5 mM (R=0.9997) could be obtained. The current response of the proposed glucose sensor was highly sensitive and stable, attributing to the electrocatalytic performance of the firmly embedded Ni nanoparticles as well as the chemical inertness of the carbon-based electrode. The good analytical performance, low cost and straightforward preparation method made this novel electrode material promising for the development of effective glucose sensor.

Fine structures of embryonic discs of in vivo post-hatching porcine blastocysts at the pre-primitive streak stage.

PubMed

Xia, P; Liu, Z; Qin, P

2011-04-01

To date, reports about the ultrastructure of porcine embryonic discs have not shown details of the primitive streak. The main objective of this study was to examine the ultrastructure of interior and exterior embryonic discs in porcine in vivo blastocysts with diameters of 1, 3 and 9 mm using scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy. For the first time, we revealed the ultrastructure of the unusual group of cells in the pre-primitive streak area of embryonic discs. The cells were 1-2 μm in diameter, had high electron density and contained abundant, free ribosomes and endoplasmic reticulum. These primitive streak cells could represent original embryonic stem cells or represent a stem cell niche. The results also showed three types of cells on the exterior surface of the embryonic discs. Moreover, our results provided morphological evidence of condensed nuclei in the smooth cells on the surface of the embryonic disc. © 2010 Blackwell Verlag GmbH.

Accurate modelling of single-particle cryo-EM images quantifies the benefits expected from using Zernike phase contrast

PubMed Central

Hall, R. J.; Nogales, E.; Glaeser, R. M.

2011-01-01

The use of a Zernike-type phase plate in biological cryo-electron microscopy allows the imaging, without using defocus, of what are predominantly phase objects. It is thought that such phase-plate implementations might result in higher quality images, free from the problems of CTF correction that occur when images must be recorded at extremely high values of defocus. In single-particle cryo-electron microscopy it is hoped that these improvements in image quality will facilitate work on structures that have proved difficult to study, either because of their relatively small size or because the structures are not completely homogeneous. There is still a need, however, to quantify how much improvement can be gained by using a phase plate for single-particle cryo-electron microscopy. We present a method for quantitatively modelling the images recorded with 200 keV electrons, for single particles embedded in vitreous ice. We then investigate what difference the use of a phase-plate device could have on the processing of single-particle data. We confirm that using a phase plate results in single-particle datasets in which smaller molecules can be detected, particles can be more accurately aligned and problems of heterogeneity can be more easily addressed. PMID:21463690

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

Tao-Cheng, Jung-Hwa; Yang, Yijung; Bayer, K. Ulrich

Highlights: • NMDA-induces accumulation of Shank at the postsynaptic density. • Shank accumulation is preferential to the distal region of the postsynaptic density. • Shank accumulation is mediated by CaMKII. - Abstract: Shank is a specialized scaffold protein present in high abundance at the postsynaptic density (PSD). Using pre-embedding immunogold electron microscopy on cultured hippocampal neurons, we had previously demonstrated further accumulation of Shank at the PSD under excitatory conditions. Here, using the same experimental protocol, we demonstrate that a cell permeable CaMKII inhibitor, tatCN21, blocks NMDA-induced accumulation of Shank at the PSD. Furthermore we show that NMDA application changesmore » the distribution pattern of Shank at the PSD, promoting a 7–10 nm shift in the median distance of Shank labels away from the postsynaptic membrane. Inhibition of CaMKII with tatCN21 also blocks this shift in the distribution of Shank. Altogether these results imply that upon activation of NMDA receptors, CaMKII mediates accumulation of Shank, preferentially at the distal regions of the PSD complex extending toward the cytoplasm.« less

Scanning Electron Microscopy Findings With Energy-Dispersive X-ray Investigations of Cosmetically Tinted Contact Lenses

PubMed Central

Hotta, Fumika; Imai, Shoji; Miyamoto, Tatsuro; Mitamura-Aizawa, Sayaka; Mitamura, Yoshinori

2015-01-01

Objective: To investigate the surfaces and principal elements of the colorants of cosmetically tinted contact lenses (Cos-CLs). Methods: We analyzed the surfaces and principal elements of the colorants of five commercially available Cos-CLs using scanning electron microscopy with energy-dispersive x-ray analysis. Results: In two Cos-CLs, the anterior and posterior surfaces were smooth, and colorants were found inside the lens. One lens showed colorants located to a depth of 8 to 14 μm from the anterior side of the lens. In the other lens, colorants were found in the most superficial layer on the posterior surface, although a coated layer was observed. The colorants in the other three lenses were deposited on either lens surface. Although a print pattern was uniform in embedded type lenses, uneven patterns were apparent in dot-matrix design lenses. Colorants used in all lenses contained chlorine, iron, and titanium. In the magnified scanning electron microscopy images of a certain lens, chlorine is exuded and spread. Conclusions: Cosmetically tinted contact lenses have a wide variety of lens surfaces and colorants. Colorants may be deposited on the lens surface and consist of an element that has tissue toxicity. PMID:25799458

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

Correlation study of nanocrystalline carbon doped thin films prepared by a thermionic vacuum arc deposition technique

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dinca-Balan, Virginia; Vladoiu, Rodica; Mandes, Aurelia; Prodan, Gabriel

2017-11-01

The synthesis of Ag, Mg and Si nanocrystalline, embedded in a hydrogen-free amorphous carbon (a-C) matrix, deposited by a high vacuum and free buffer gas technique, were investigated. The films with compact structures and extremely smooth surfaces were prepared using the thermionic vacuum arc method in one electron gun configuration, on glass and silicon substrates. The surface morphology and wettability of the obtained multifunctional thin films were investigated using transmission electron microscopy (TEM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and free surface energy (FSE) by See System. The results from the TEM measurements show how the Ag, Mg and Si interacted with carbon and the influence these materials have on the thin film structure formation and the grain size distribution. SEM correlated with EDX results reveal a very precise comparative study, regarding the quantity of the elements that morphed into carbides nanostructures. Also, the FSE results prove how different materials in combination with carbon can make changes to the surface properties.

Transmission Electron Microscopy of Iron Metal in Almahata Sitta Ureilite

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mikouchi, T.; Yubuta, K.; Sugiyama, K.; Aoyagi, Y.; Yasuhara, A.; Mihira, T.; Zolensky, M. E.; Goodrich, C. A.

2013-01-01

Almahata Sitta (AS) is a polymict breccia mainly composed of variable ureilite lithologies with small amounts of chondritic lithologies [1]. Fe metal is a common accessory phase in ureilites, but our earlier study on Fe metals in one of AS fragments (#44) revealed a unique mineralogy never seen in other ureilites [2,3]. In this abstract we report detailed transmission electron microscopy (TEM) on these metal grains to better understand the thermal history of ureilites. We prepared FIB sections of AS#44 by JEOL JIB-4000 from the PTS that was well characterized by SEM-EBSD in our earlier study [2]. The sections were then observed by STEM (JEOL JEM- 2100F). One of the FIB sections shows a submicron-sized symplectic intergrown texture composed of Fe metal (kamacite), Fe carbide (cohenite), Fe phosphide (schreibersite), and Fe sulfide (troilite). Each phase has an identical SAED pattern in spite of its complex texture, suggesting co-crystallization of all phases. This is probably caused by shock re-melting of pre-existing metal + graphite to form a eutectic-looking texture. The other FIB section is mostly composed of homogeneous Fe metal (93 wt% Fe, 5 wt% Ni, and 2 wt% Si), but BF-STEM images exhibited the presence of elongated lathy grains (approx. 2 microns long) embedded in the interstitial matrix. The SAED patterns from these lath grains could be indexed by alpha-Fe (bcc) while interstitial areas are gamma-Fe (fcc). The elongated alpha-Fe grains show tweed-like structures suggesting martensite transformation. Such a texture can be formed by rapid cooling from high temperature where gamma-Fe was stable. Subsequently alpha-Fe crystallized, but gamma-Fe remained in the interstitial matrix due to quenching from high temperature. This scenario is consistent with very rapid cooling history of ureilites suggested by silicate mineralogy.

Electrical properties of films of zinc oxide nanoparticles and its hybrid with reduced graphene oxide

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

Madhuri, K. Priya; Bramhaiah, K.; John, Neena S., E-mail: jsneena@cnsms.res.in

Free-standing films of ZnO nanoparticles (NPs) and reduced graphene oxide (rGO)-ZnO NPs hybrid are prepared at a liquid/liquid interface. The films are characterized by UV-visible spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy and atomic force microscopy. ZnO film consists of spherical aggregated NPs while the hybrid film contains folded sheets of rGO with embedded ZnO NPs. Electrical properties of the films and its photoresponse in presence of UV radiation are investigated using current sensing atomic force microscopy (CSAFM) at nanoscale and bulk measurements using two probe methods. Enhancement in photocurrent is observed in both cases and the current imaging reveals anmore » inhomogeneous contribution by different ZnO grains in the film.« less

An embedded checklist in the Anesthesia Information Management System improves pre-anaesthetic induction setup: a randomised controlled trial in a simulation setting.

PubMed

Wetmore, Douglas; Goldberg, Andrew; Gandhi, Nishant; Spivack, John; McCormick, Patrick; DeMaria, Samuel

2016-10-01

Anaesthesiologists work in a high stress, high consequence environment in which missed steps in preparation may lead to medical errors and potential patient harm. The pre-anaesthetic induction period has been identified as a time in which medical errors can occur. The Anesthesia Patient Safety Foundation has developed a Pre-Anesthetic Induction Patient Safety (PIPS) checklist. We conducted this study to test the effectiveness of this checklist, when embedded in our institutional Anesthesia Information Management System (AIMS), on resident performance in a simulated environment. Using a randomised, controlled, observer-blinded design, we compared performance of anaesthesiology residents in a simulated operating room under production pressure using a checklist in completing a thorough pre-anaesthetic induction evaluation and setup with that of residents with no checklist. The checklist was embedded in the simulated operating room's electronic medical record. Data for 38 anaesthesiology residents shows a statistically significant difference in performance in pre-anaesthetic setup and evaluation as scored by blinded raters (maximum score 22 points), with the checklist group performing better by 7.8 points (p<0.01). The effects of gender and year of residency on total score were not significant. Simulation duration (time to anaesthetic agent administration) was increased significantly by the use of the checklist. Required use of a pre-induction checklist improves anaesthesiology resident performance in a simulated environment. The PIPS checklist as an integrated part of a departmental AIMS warrant further investigation as a quality measure. Published by the BMJ Publishing Group Limited. For permission to use (where not already granted under a licence) please go to http://www.bmj.com/company/products-services/rights-and-licensing/

Application of SEM and EDX in studying biomineralization in plant tissues.

PubMed

He, Honghua; Kirilak, Yaowanuj

2014-01-01

This chapter describes protocols using formalin-acetic acid-alcohol (FAA) to fix plant tissues for studying biomineralization by means of scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and qualitative energy-dispersive X-ray microanalysis (EDX). Specimen preparation protocols for SEM and EDX mainly include fixation, dehydration, critical point drying (CPD), mounting, and coating. Gold-coated specimens are used for SEM imaging, while gold- and carbon-coated specimens are prepared for qualitative X-ray microanalyses separately to obtain complementary information on the elemental compositions of biominerals. During the specimen preparation procedure for SEM, some biominerals may be dislodged or scattered, making it difficult to determine their accurate locations, and light microscopy is used to complement SEM studies. Specimen preparation protocols for light microscopy generally include fixation, dehydration, infiltration and embedding with resin, microtome sectioning, and staining. In addition, microwave processing methods are adopted here to speed up the specimen preparation process for both SEM and light microscopy.

Field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM) as an approach for nanoparticle detection inside cells.

PubMed

Havrdova, M; Polakova, K; Skopalik, J; Vujtek, M; Mokdad, A; Homolkova, M; Tucek, J; Nebesarova, J; Zboril, R

2014-12-01

When developing new nanoparticles for bio-applications, it is important to fully characterize the nanoparticle's behavior in biological systems. The most common techniques employed for mapping nanoparticles inside cells include transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM). These techniques entail passing an electron beam through a thin specimen. STEM or TEM imaging is often used for the detection of nanoparticles inside cellular organelles. However, lengthy sample preparation is required (i.e., fixation, dehydration, drying, resin embedding, and cutting). In the present work, a new matrix (FTO glass) for biological samples was used and characterized by field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM) to generate images comparable to those obtained by TEM. Using FE-SEM, nanoparticle images were acquired inside endo/lysosomes without disruption of the cellular shape. Furthermore, the initial steps of nanoparticle incorporation into the cells were captured. In addition, the conductive FTO glass endowed the sample with high stability under the required accelerating voltage. Owing to these features of the sample, further analyses could be performed (material contrast and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS)), which confirmed the presence of nanoparticles inside the cells. The results showed that FE-SEM can enable detailed characterization of nanoparticles in endosomes without the need for contrast staining or metal coating of the sample. Images showing the intracellular distribution of nanoparticles together with cellular morphology can give important information on the biocompatibility and demonstrate the potential of nanoparticle utilization in medicine. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Peering at Brain Polysomes with Atomic Force Microscopy

PubMed Central

Lunelli, Lorenzo; Bernabò, Paola; Bolner, Alice; Vaghi, Valentina; Marchioretto, Marta; Viero, Gabriella

2016-01-01

The translational machinery, i.e., the polysome or polyribosome, is one of the biggest and most complex cytoplasmic machineries in cells. Polysomes, formed by ribosomes, mRNAs, several proteins and non-coding RNAs, represent integrated platforms where translational controls take place. However, while the ribosome has been widely studied, the organization of polysomes is still lacking comprehensive understanding. Thus much effort is required in order to elucidate polysome organization and any novel mechanism of translational control that may be embedded. Atomic force microscopy (AFM) is a type of scanning probe microscopy that allows the acquisition of 3D images at nanoscale resolution. Compared to electron microscopy (EM) techniques, one of the main advantages of AFM is that it can acquire thousands of images both in air and in solution, enabling the sample to be maintained under near physiological conditions without any need for staining and fixing procedures. Here, a detailed protocol for the accurate purification of polysomes from mouse brain and their deposition on mica substrates is described. This protocol enables polysome imaging in air and liquid with AFM and their reconstruction as three-dimensional objects. Complementary to cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM), the proposed method can be conveniently used for systematically analyzing polysomes and studying their organization. PMID:27023752

Graphite nanoplatelet enabled embeddable fiber sensor for in situ curing monitoring and structural health monitoring of polymeric composites.

PubMed

Luo, Sida; Liu, Tao

2014-06-25

A graphite nanoplatelet (GNP) thin film enabled 1D fiber sensor (GNP-FibSen) was fabricated by a continuous roll-to-roll spray coating process, characterized by scanning electron microscopy and Raman spectroscopy and evaluated by coupled electrical-mechanical tensile testing. The neat GNP-FibSen sensor shows very high gauge sensitivity with a gauge factor of ∼17. By embedding the sensor in fiberglass prepreg laminate parts, the dual functionalities of the GNP-FibSen sensor were demonstrated. In the manufacturing process, the resistance change of the embedded sensor provides valuable local resin curing information. After the manufacturing process, the same sensor is able to map the strain/stress states and detect the failure of the host composite. The superior durability of the embedded GNP-FibSen sensor has been demonstrated through 10,000 cycles of coupled electromechanical tests.

Iodine Vapor Staining for Atomic Number Contrast in Backscattered Electron and X-ray Imaging

PubMed Central

Boyde, Alan; Mccorkell, Fergus A; Taylor, Graham K; Bomphrey, Richard J; Doube, Michael

2014-01-01

Iodine imparts strong contrast to objects imaged with electrons and X-rays due to its high atomic number (53), and is widely used in liquid form as a microscopic stain and clinical contrast agent. We have developed a simple technique which exploits elemental iodine's sublimation-deposition state-change equilibrium to vapor stain specimens with iodine gas. Specimens are enclosed in a gas-tight container along with a small mass of solid I2. The bottle is left at ambient laboratory conditions while staining proceeds until empirically determined completion (typically days to weeks). We demonstrate the utility of iodine vapor staining by applying it to resin-embedded tissue blocks and whole locusts and imaging them with backscattered electron scanning electron microscopy (BSE SEM) or X-ray microtomography (XMT). Contrast is comparable to that achieved with liquid staining but without the consequent tissue shrinkage, stain pooling, or uneven coverage artefacts associated with immersing the specimen in iodine solutions. Unmineralized tissue histology can be read in BSE SEM images with good discrimination between tissue components. Organs within the locust head are readily distinguished in XMT images with particularly useful contrast in the chitin exoskeleton, muscle and nerves. Here, we have used iodine vapor staining for two imaging modalities in frequent use in our laboratories and on the specimen types with which we work. It is likely to be equally convenient for a wide range of specimens, and for other modalities which generate contrast from electron- and photon-sample interactions, such as transmission electron microscopy and light microscopy. Microsc. Res. Tech. 77:1044–1051, 2014. © 2014 The Authors. Microscopy Research Technique published by Wiley Periodocals, Inc. PMID:25219801

HIV and influenza share a similar structural blueprint

Cancer.gov

HIV uses a protein called the envelope glycoprotein spike to attach itself and fuse with the cell membrane; NCI scientists have now defined the structure of this spike in its pre-fusion state using cryo-electron microscopy

Transmission electron microscopy study of the formation of epitaxial CoSi2/Si (111) by a room-temperature codeposition technique

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

D'Anterroches, Cecile; Yakupoglu, H. Nejat; Lin, T. L.; Fathauer, R. W.; Grunthaner, P. J.

1988-01-01

Co and Si have been codeposited on Si (111) substrates near room temperature in a stoichiometric 1:2 ratio in a molecular beam epitaxy system. Annealing of these deposits yields high-quality single-crystal CoSi2 layers. Transmission electron microscopy has been used to examine as-deposited layers and layers annealed at 300, 500, and 600 C. Single-crystal epitaxial grains of CoSi2 embedded in a matrix of amorphous Co/Si are observed in as-deposited samples, while the layer is predominantly single-crystal, inhomogeneously strained CoSi2 at 300 C. At 600 C, a homogeneously strained single-crystal layer with a high density of pinholes is observed. In contrast to other solid phase epitaxy techniques used to grow CoSi2 on Si (111), no intermediate silicide phases are observed prior to the formation of CoSi2.

Mineralization of collagen may occur on fibril surfaces: evidence from conventional and high-voltage electron microscopy and three-dimensional imaging

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Landis, W. J.; Hodgens, K. J.; Song, M. J.; Arena, J.; Kiyonaga, S.; Marko, M.; Owen, C.; McEwen, B. F.

1996-01-01

The interaction between collagen and mineral crystals in the normally calcifying leg tendons from the domestic turkey, Meleagris gallopavo, has been investigated at an ultrastructural level with conventional and high-voltage electron microscopy, computed tomography, and three-dimensional image reconstruction methods. Specimens treated by either aqueous or anhydrous techniques and resin-embedded were appropriately sectioned and regions of early tendon mineralization were photographed. On the basis of individual photomicrographs, stereoscopic pairs of images, and tomographic three-dimensional image reconstructions, platelet-shaped crystals may be demonstrated for the first time in association with the surface of collagen fibrils. Mineral is also observed in closely parallel arrays within collagen hole and overlap zones. The mineral deposition at these spatially distinct locations in the tendon provides insight into possible means by which calcification is mediated by collagen as a fundamental event in skeletal and dental formation among vertebrates.

Facile synthesis of Ni/NiO@GO nanocomposites and its enhanced dielectric constant

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sarkar, S.; Giri, N.; Mondal, A.; Ray, R.

2018-05-01

Ni/NiO embedded Graphene Oxide (GO): Ni/NiO@GO is synthesized by citric acid assisted Pechini-type method. Structural and morphological characterizations are performed by X-ray powdered diffraction (XRD), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) and tunneling electron microscopy (TEM). Defects in GO sheets are probed by RAMAN spectroscopy. The temperature variation of dielectric constant (ɛR) and dielectric loss (tan δ) are investigated in the temperature range 300 - 400 K. Decoration of GO with Ni/NiO nanoparticles enhances its ɛR by˜55 times. Moreover, its dielectric constant measured at 5 MHz is found to be˜430 times to that of Ni/NiO along with the reduction of dielectric loss by a factor˜0.5. The enhanced dielectric constant makes the composite Ni/NiO@GO a potential candidate for using in ecologically friendly energy storage devices.

Preparation of herpes simplex virus-infected primary neurons for transmission electron microscopy.

PubMed

Miranda-Saksena, Monica; Boadle, Ross; Cunningham, Anthony L

2014-01-01

Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) provides the resolution necessary to identify both viruses and subcellular components of cells infected with many types of viruses, including herpes simplex virus. Recognized as a powerful tool in both diagnostic and research-based virology laboratories, TEM has made possible the identification of new viruses and has contributed to the elucidation of virus life cycle and virus-host cell interaction. Whilst there are many sample preparation techniques for TEM, conventional processing using chemical fixation and resin embedding remains a useful technique, available in virtually all EM laboratories, for studying virus/cell ultrastructure. In this chapter, we describe the preparation of herpes simplex virus-infected primary neurons, grown on plastic cover slips, to allow sectioning of neurons and axons in their growth plane. This technique allows TEM examination of cell bodies, axons, growth cones, and varicosities, providing powerful insights into virus-cell interaction.

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.

Synergistically-enhanced ion track formation in pre-damaged strontium titanate by energetic heavy ions

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

Xue, Haizhou; Zarkadoula, Eva; Sachan, Ritesh

Latent ion tracks created by energetic heavy ions (12 MeV Ti to 946 MeV Au) in single crystal SrTiO 3 are investigated in this paper using Rutherford backscattering spectrometry and scanning transmission electron microscopy. The results demonstrate that pre-existing irradiation damage, introduced via elastic collision processes, interacts synergistically with the electronic energy deposition from energetic heavy ions to enhance formation of latent ion tracks. The average amorphous cross-section increases with the level of pre-damage and is linearly proportional to the electronic energy loss of the ions, with a slope dependent on the pre-damage level. For the highest energy ions (629more » MeV Xe and 946 MeV Au), the tracks are continuous over the pre-damaged depth, but become discontinuous beyond the pre-damaged region. Finally, this work provides new understanding and insights on ion-solid interactions that significantly impact the interpretation of latent track formation processes, models of amorphization, and the fabrication of electro-ceramic devices.« less

Synergistically-enhanced ion track formation in pre-damaged strontium titanate by energetic heavy ions

DOE PAGES

Xue, Haizhou; Zarkadoula, Eva; Sachan, Ritesh; ...

2018-03-20

Latent ion tracks created by energetic heavy ions (12 MeV Ti to 946 MeV Au) in single crystal SrTiO 3 are investigated in this paper using Rutherford backscattering spectrometry and scanning transmission electron microscopy. The results demonstrate that pre-existing irradiation damage, introduced via elastic collision processes, interacts synergistically with the electronic energy deposition from energetic heavy ions to enhance formation of latent ion tracks. The average amorphous cross-section increases with the level of pre-damage and is linearly proportional to the electronic energy loss of the ions, with a slope dependent on the pre-damage level. For the highest energy ions (629more » MeV Xe and 946 MeV Au), the tracks are continuous over the pre-damaged depth, but become discontinuous beyond the pre-damaged region. Finally, this work provides new understanding and insights on ion-solid interactions that significantly impact the interpretation of latent track formation processes, models of amorphization, and the fabrication of electro-ceramic devices.« less

Preparation and characterization of a novel highly hydrophilic and antifouling polysulfone/nanoporous TiO2 nanocomposite membrane.

PubMed

Bidsorkhi, H Cheraghi; Riazi, H; Emadzadeh, D; Ghanbari, M; Matsuura, T; Lau, W J; Ismail, A F

2016-10-14

In this research, novel ultrafiltration nanocomposite membranes were prepared by incorporating self-synthesized nanoporous titanium dioxide (NTiO2) nanoparticles into polysulfone. The surface of the nanoparticle was treated with a silane-based modifier to improve its distribution in the host polymer. Atomic-force microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, Brunauer-Emmett-Teller, transmission electron microscopy, energy-dispersive x-ray spectroscopy, porosity and contact angle tests were conducted to characterize the properties of the particles as well as the fabricated nanocomposite membranes. The effects of the nanoparticle incorporation were evaluated by conducting ultrafiltration experiments. It was reported that the membrane pure water flux was increased with increasing NTiO2 loading owing to the high porosity of the nanoparticles embedded and/or formation of enlarged pores upon addition of them. The antifouling capacity of the membranes was also tested by ultrafiltration of bovine serum albumin fouling solution. It was found that both water flux and antifouling capacity tended to reach desired level if the NTiO2 added was at optimized loading.

Structural and optical investigation on the wings of Idea malabarica (Moore, 1877).

PubMed

Sackey, Juliet; Nuru, Zebib Y; Sone, Bertrand Tumbain; Maaza, Malik

2017-02-01

The nanostructures on the wings of Idea malabarica (Moore, 1877) were analysed using scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, atomic force microscopy, Fourier transform-infrared spectroscopy, and reflectance measurements. The chemical and morphological analyses revealed the chitin-based intricate nanostructures. The influence of the nanostructures on the wetting characteristics of the wing was investigated using optical imaging. Applying the Maxwell-Garnet approximation to the porosities within the nanostructures, the refractive indices, which relate the reflectance response, were estimated. It was concluded that the colour seen on the wings of the Idea malabarica originate from the nanostructural configurations of the chitin-based structures and the embedded pigment.

STED super-resolution microscopy of clinical paraffin-embedded human rectal cancer tissue.

PubMed

Ilgen, Peter; Stoldt, Stefan; Conradi, Lena-Christin; Wurm, Christian Andreas; Rüschoff, Josef; Ghadimi, B Michael; Liersch, Torsten; Jakobs, Stefan

2014-01-01

Formalin fixed and paraffin-embedded human tissue resected during cancer surgery is indispensable for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes and represents a vast and largely unexploited resource for research. Optical microscopy of such specimen is curtailed by the diffraction-limited resolution of conventional optical microscopy. To overcome this limitation, we used STED super-resolution microscopy enabling optical resolution well below the diffraction barrier. We visualized nanoscale protein distributions in sections of well-annotated paraffin-embedded human rectal cancer tissue stored in a clinical repository. Using antisera against several mitochondrial proteins, STED microscopy revealed distinct sub-mitochondrial protein distributions, suggesting a high level of structural preservation. Analysis of human tissues stored for up to 17 years demonstrated that these samples were still amenable for super-resolution microscopy. STED microscopy of sections of HER2 positive rectal adenocarcinoma revealed details in the surface and intracellular HER2 distribution that were blurred in the corresponding conventional images, demonstrating the potential of super-resolution microscopy to explore the thus far largely untapped nanoscale regime in tissues stored in biorepositories.

STED Super-Resolution Microscopy of Clinical Paraffin-Embedded Human Rectal Cancer Tissue

PubMed Central

Wurm, Christian Andreas; Rüschoff, Josef; Ghadimi, B. Michael; Liersch, Torsten; Jakobs, Stefan

2014-01-01

Formalin fixed and paraffin-embedded human tissue resected during cancer surgery is indispensable for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes and represents a vast and largely unexploited resource for research. Optical microscopy of such specimen is curtailed by the diffraction-limited resolution of conventional optical microscopy. To overcome this limitation, we used STED super-resolution microscopy enabling optical resolution well below the diffraction barrier. We visualized nanoscale protein distributions in sections of well-annotated paraffin-embedded human rectal cancer tissue stored in a clinical repository. Using antisera against several mitochondrial proteins, STED microscopy revealed distinct sub-mitochondrial protein distributions, suggesting a high level of structural preservation. Analysis of human tissues stored for up to 17 years demonstrated that these samples were still amenable for super-resolution microscopy. STED microscopy of sections of HER2 positive rectal adenocarcinoma revealed details in the surface and intracellular HER2 distribution that were blurred in the corresponding conventional images, demonstrating the potential of super-resolution microscopy to explore the thus far largely untapped nanoscale regime in tissues stored in biorepositories. PMID:25025184

Expanded polyglutamine embedded in the endoplasmic reticulum causes membrane distortion and coincides with Bax insertion

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

Ueda, Masashi; Li, Shimo; Itoh, Masanori

The endoplasmic reticulum (ER) is important in various cellular functions, such as secretary and membrane protein biosynthesis, lipid synthesis, and calcium storage. ER stress, including membrane distortion, is associated with many diseases such as Huntington's disease. In particular, nuclear envelope distortion is related to neuronal cell death associated with polyglutamine. However, the mechanism by which polyglutamine causes ER membrane distortion remains unclear. We used electron microscopy, fluorescence protease protection assay, and alkaline treatment to analyze the localization of polyglutamine in cells. We characterized polyglutamine embedded in the ER membrane and noted an effect on morphology, including the dilation of ERmore » luminal space and elongation of ER-mitochondria contact sites, in addition to the distortion of the nuclear envelope. The polyglutamine embedded in the ER membrane was observed at the same time as Bax insertion. These results demonstrated that the ER membrane may be a target of polyglutamine, which triggers cell death through Bax. -- Highlights: •We characterized polyglutamine embedded in the ER membrane. •The polyglutamine embedded in the ER membrane was observed at the same time as Bax insertion. •The ER membrane may be a target of polyglutamine, which triggers cell death.« less

Resinless section electron microscopy reveals the yeast cytoskeleton.

PubMed

Penman, J; Penman, S

1997-04-15

The cytoskeleton of Saccharomyces cerevisiae is essentially invisible using conventional microscopy techniques. A similar problem was solved for the mammalian cell cytoskeleton using resinless section electron microscopy, a technique applied here to yeast. In the resinless image, soluble proteins are no longer cloaked by embedding medium and must be removed by selective detergent extraction. In yeast, this requires breaching the cell wall by digesting with Zymolyase sufficiently to allow detergent extraction of the plasma membrane lipids. Gel electropherograms show that the extracted or "soluble" proteins are distinct from the retained or "structural" proteins that presumably comprise the cytoskeleton. These putative cytoskeleton proteins include the major portions of a 43-kDa protein, which is presumably actin, and of proteins in a band appearing at 55 kDa, as well as numerous less abundant, nonactin proteins. Resinless section electron micrographs show a dense, three-dimensional web of anastomosing, polymorphic filaments bounded by the remnant cell wall. Although the filament network is very heterogenous, there appear to be two principal classes of filament diameters-5 nm and 15-20 nm-which may correspond to actin and intermediate filaments, respectively. A large oval region of lower filament density probably corresponds to the vacuole, and an electron dense spheroidal body, 300-500 nm in diameter, is likely the nucleus. The techniques detailed in this report afford new approaches to the study of yeast cytoarchitecture.

Resinless section electron microscopy reveals the yeast cytoskeleton

PubMed Central

Penman, Joshua; Penman, Sheldon

1997-01-01

The cytoskeleton of Saccharomyces cerevisiae is essentially invisible using conventional microscopy techniques. A similar problem was solved for the mammalian cell cytoskeleton using resinless section electron microscopy, a technique applied here to yeast. In the resinless image, soluble proteins are no longer cloaked by embedding medium and must be removed by selective detergent extraction. In yeast, this requires breaching the cell wall by digesting with Zymolyase sufficiently to allow detergent extraction of the plasma membrane lipids. Gel electropherograms show that the extracted or “soluble” proteins are distinct from the retained or “structural” proteins that presumably comprise the cytoskeleton. These putative cytoskeleton proteins include the major portions of a 43-kDa protein, which is presumably actin, and of proteins in a band appearing at 55 kDa, as well as numerous less abundant, nonactin proteins. Resinless section electron micrographs show a dense, three-dimensional web of anastomosing, polymorphic filaments bounded by the remnant cell wall. Although the filament network is very heterogenous, there appear to be two principal classes of filament diameters—5 nm and 15–20 nm—which may correspond to actin and intermediate filaments, respectively. A large oval region of lower filament density probably corresponds to the vacuole, and an electron dense spheroidal body, 300–500 nm in diameter, is likely the nucleus. The techniques detailed in this report afford new approaches to the study of yeast cytoarchitecture. PMID:9108046

EMHP: an accurate automated hole masking algorithm for single-particle cryo-EM image processing.

PubMed

Berndsen, Zachary; Bowman, Charles; Jang, Haerin; Ward, Andrew B

2017-12-01

The Electron Microscopy Hole Punch (EMHP) is a streamlined suite of tools for quick assessment, sorting and hole masking of electron micrographs. With recent advances in single-particle electron cryo-microscopy (cryo-EM) data processing allowing for the rapid determination of protein structures using a smaller computational footprint, we saw the need for a fast and simple tool for data pre-processing that could run independent of existing high-performance computing (HPC) infrastructures. EMHP provides a data preprocessing platform in a small package that requires minimal python dependencies to function. https://www.bitbucket.org/chazbot/emhp Apache 2.0 License. bowman@scripps.edu. Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online. © The Author(s) 2017. Published by Oxford University Press.

Au-nanoparticle-embedded cross-linked gelatin films synthesized on aqueous solution in contact with dielectric barrier discharge

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shirafuji, Tatsuru; Nakamura, Yusuke; Azuma, Shiori; Sotoda, Naoya; Isshiki, Toshiyuki

2018-01-01

A wine-red free-standing thin film has been formed by irradiating dielectric barrier discharge plasma on an aqueous solution containing HAuCl4 and gelatin. The film has a fibrous structure with an inhomogeneous thickness profile and is composed of cross-linked gelatin, as confirmed by optical microscopy and infrared absorption spectroscopy. The film has embedded Au nanoparticles (GNPs), as confirmed by transmission electron microscopy. In the region with a relatively small film thickness, the number density of GNPs is relatively low, and the sizes of GNPs range from 5.3 to 34.3 nm. In the region with a relatively large film thickness, on the other hand, GNPs are highly accumulated, and the sizes of GNPs range from 10.0 to 26.7 nm. The aqueous solution remains transparent even after the film growth process, which indicates that the plasma-induced processes involving GNP formation and film growth are confined near the surface of the aqueous solution. A possible film growth mechanism is discussed on the basis of the experimental results of this study.

[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.

Characterization of microbially Fe(III)-reduced nontronite: Environmental cell-transmission electron microscopy study

USGS Publications Warehouse

Kim, Jin-wook; Furukawa, Yoko; Daulton, Tyrone L.; Lavoie, Dawn L.; Newell, Steven W.

2003-01-01

Microstructural changes induced by the microbial reduction of Fe(III) in nontronite by Shewanella oneidensis were studied using environmental cell (EC)-transmission electron microscopy (TEM), conventional TEM, and X-ray powder diffraction (XRD). Direct observations of clays by EC-TEM in their hydrated state allowed for the first time an accurate and unambiguous TEM measurement of basal layer spacings and the contraction of layer spacing caused by microbial effects, most likely those of Fe(III) reduction. Non-reduced and Fe(III)-reduced nontronite, observed by EC-TEM, exhibited fringes with mean d001 spacings of 1.50 nm (standard deviation, σ = 0.08 nm) and 1.26 nm (σ = 0.10 nm), respectively. In comparison, the same samples embedded with Nanoplast resin, sectioned by microtome, and observed using conventional TEM, displayed layer spacings of 1.0–1.1 nm (non-reduced) and 1.0 nm (reduced). The results from Nanoplast-embedded samples are typical of conventional TEM studies, which have measured nearly identical layer spacings regardless of Fe oxidation state. Following Fe(III) reduction, both EC- and conventional TEM showed an increase in the order of nontronite selected area electron diffraction patterns while the images exhibited fewer wavy fringes and fewer layer terminations. An increase in stacking order in reduced nontronite was also suggested by XRD measurements. In particular, the ratio of the valley to peak intensity (v/p) of the 1.7 nm basal 001 peak of ethylene glycolated nontronite was measured at 0.65 (non-reduced) and 0.85 (microbially reduced).

Synthesis of metal nanoparticle and patterning in polymeric films induced by electron beam

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yamamoto, Hiroki; Kozawa, Takahiro; Tagawa, Seiichi; Marignier, Jean-Louis; Mostafavi, Mehran; Belloni, Jacqueline

2018-03-01

Using an electron beam, thin polymeric films loaded with metal nanoparticles of silver were prepared by a one-step irradiation-induced reduction of the metal ions embedded in the polymer. The metal nanoparticles were observed by either optical absorption or microscopy. The mechanism of the reduction of metal ions and of the polymer crosslinking were deduced from the average absorbance measurements. In view of realizing specific patterns of high resolution using the electron beam, electron beam produces 200 nm wide lines that can be separated by unexposed spaces of adjustable width, where precursors were dissolved. The resolution of the electron beam has been exploited to demonstrate the achievement of nanopatterning on polymer films using a direct-writing process. This method supplies interesting applications such as masks, replicas, or imprint molds of improved density and contrast.

Defect reduction of SiNx embedded m-plane GaN grown by hydride vapor phase epitaxy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Woo, Seohwi; Kim, Minho; So, Byeongchan; Yoo, Geunho; Jang, Jongjin; Lee, Kyuseung; Nam, Okhyun

2014-12-01

Nonpolar (1 0 -1 0) m-plane GaN has been grown on m-plane sapphire substrates by hydride vapor phase epitaxy (HVPE). We studied the defect reduction of m-GaN with embedded SiNx interlayers deposited by ex-situ metal organic chemical vapor deposition (MOCVD). The full-width at half-maximum values of the X-ray rocking curves for m-GaN with embedded SiNx along [1 1 -2 0]GaN and [0 0 0 1]GaN were reduced to 528 and 1427 arcs, respectively, as compared with the respective values of 947 and 3170 arcs, of m-GaN without SiNx. Cross-section transmission electron microscopy revealed that the basal stacking fault density was decreased by approximately one order to 5×104 cm-1 due to the defect blocking of the embedded SiNx. As a result, the near band edge emission intensities of the room-temperature and low-temperature photoluminescence showed approximately two-fold and four-fold improvement, respectively.

Evaluation of laser ablation microtomy for correlative microscopy of hard tissues.

PubMed

Boyde, A

2018-02-27

Laser ablation machining or microtomy (LAM) is a relatively new approach to producing slide mounted sections of translucent materials. We evaluated the method with a variety of problems from the bone, joint and dental tissues fields where we require thin undecalcified and undistorted sections for correlative light microscopy (LM) and backscattered electron scanning electron microscopy (BSE SEM). All samples were embedded in poly-methylmethacrlate (PMMA) and flat block surfaces had been previously studied by BSE-SEM and confocal scanning light microscopy (CSLM). Most were also studied by X-yay microtomography (XMT). The block surface is stuck to a glass slide with cyanoacrylate adhesive. Setting the section thickness and levelling uses inbuilt optical coherence tomographic imaging. Tight focusing of near-infrared laser radiation in the sectioning plane gives extreme intensities causing photodisruption of material at the focal point. The laser beam is moved by a fast scanner to write a cutting line, which is simultaneously moved by an XY positioning unit to create a sectioning plane. The block is thereby released from the slide, leaving the section stuck to the slide. Light, wet polishing on the finest grade (4000 grit) silicon carbide polishing paper is used to remove a 1-2 μm thick damaged layer at the surface of the section. Sections produced by laser cutting are fine in quality and superior to those produced by mechanical cutting and can be thinner than the 'voxel' in most laboratory X-ray microtomography systems. The present extensive pilot studies have shown that it works to produce samples which we can study by both light and electron microscopy. © 2018 The Authors Journal of Microscopy © 2018 Royal Microscopical Society.

The erosive potential of soft drinks on enamel surface substrate: an in vitro scanning electron microscopy investigation.

PubMed

Owens, Barry M; Kitchens, Michael

2007-11-01

Using scanning electron and light microscopy, this study qualitatively evaluated the erosive potential of carbonated cola beverages as well as sports and high-energy drinks on enamel surface substrate. Beverages used in this study included: Coca Cola Classic, Diet Coke, Gatorade sports drink, Red Bull high-energy drink, and tap water (control). Extracted human permanent molars free of hypocalcification and/or caries were used in this study. The coronal portion of each tooth was removed and sectioned longitudinally from the buccal to the lingual surface. The crown sections were embedded in acrylic resin, leaving the enamel surfaces exposed. Following finishing and polishing of all surfaces, one side was covered with red nail varnish while the remaining side was exposed to individual beverage immersion for 14 days, 24 hours per day, at 37 degrees C. The specimens were evaluated for enamel surface changes using scanning electron and light microscopy. Enamel specimens exhibited visual surface changes following immersion in the test beverages with Red Bull and Gatorade revealing the most striking surface morphological changes. Specimens subjected to Coca Cola Classic and Diet Coke immersion also displayed irregular post-treatment surface morphology. As verified by microscopic evaluation, all test beverages displayed enamel dissolution in the following order: Red Bull>Gatorade>Coca-Cola Classic>Diet Coke.

Microscopic and ultrastructural changes of Müller's muscle in patients with simple congenital ptosis.

PubMed

Alshehri, Mohammed D; Al-Fakey, Yasser H; Alkhalidi, Hisham M; Mubark, Mohamed A; Alsuhaibani, Adel H

2014-01-01

To study microscopic and ultrastructural changes of Müller's muscle in patients with isolated congenital ptosis. In this prospective, observational case-control study, Müller's muscle specimens were collected during ptosis surgical correction for 18 consecutive patients. Each specimen was divided into 2 parts. One part was embedded in formalin for light microscopy, and the other one was fixed in 3% glutaraldehyde for electron microscopy. A neuropathologist, serving as a masked evaluator, blindly reviewed all the different features for every case and counted the number of myocytes showing distinct myofilaments in the whole grid for every case. Statistical analysis using compare means and correlation tests was conducted to investigate potential associations and/or differences within and across groups. Twelve Müller's muscle specimens from patients with simple congenital ptosis of various severities and 6 specimens from patients with aponeurotic ptosis (controls) were collected and studied. Under light microscopy, congenital ptosis slides showed a small number of dispersed myocytes in a fibrotic background, whereas acquired ptosis slides showed a greater number of well-defined myocytes. Under electron microscopy, all congenital ptosis specimens had only a very small number of myocytes with clear, distinct myofilaments. Most myocytes in the aponeurotic ptosis group showed clear, distinct myofilaments, indicating a well-preserved muscle. No relationship existed between the number of clear, distinct myofilaments observed in the congenital ptosis group by transmission electron microscopy and patient age or ptosis severity. Substantial Müller's muscle atrophy was observed in patients with different severities of isolated congenital ptosis.

Assessment and characterization of biofilm formation among human isolates of Streptococcus dysgalactiae subsp. equisimilis.

PubMed

Genteluci, Gabrielle Limeira; Silva, Ligia Guedes; Souza, Maria Clara; Glatthardt, Thaís; de Mattos, Marcos Corrêa; Ejzemberg, Regina; Alviano, Celuta Sales; Figueiredo, Agnes Marie Sá; Ferreira-Carvalho, Bernadete Teixeira

2015-12-01

The capacity to form biofilm is considered a protective mechanism that allows the bacteria to survive and proliferate in hostile environments, facilitating the maintenance of the infectious process. Recently, biofilm has become a topic of interest in the study of the human pathogen group A Streptococcus (GAS). Although GAS has not been associated with infection on medical implants, the presence of microcolonies embedded in an extracellular matrix on infected tissues has been reported. Despite the similarity between GAS and Streptococcus dysgalactiae subspecies equisimilis (SDSE), there are no studies in the literature describing the production of biofilm by SDSE. In this work, we assessed and characterized biofilm development among SDSE human isolates of group C. The in vitro data showed that 59.3% of the 118 isolates tested were able to form acid-induced biofilm on glass, and 28% formed it on polystyrene surfaces. More importantly, biofilm was also formed in a foreign body model in mice. The biofilm structure was analyzed by confocal laser scanning microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, and scanning electron microscopy. Long fibrillar-like structures were observed by scanning electron microscopy. Additionally, the expression of a pilus associated gene of SDSE was increased for in vitro sessile cells compared with planktonics, and when sessile cells were collected from biofilms formed in the animal model compared with that of in vitro model. Results obtained from the immunofluorescence microscopy indicated the biofilm was immunogenic. Our data also suggested a role for proteins, exopolysaccharide and extracellular DNA in the formation and accumulation of biofilm by SDSE. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier GmbH. All rights reserved.

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

Janeoo, Shashi; Sharma, Mamta, E-mail: mamta.phy85@gmail.com; Goswamy, J.

Polyaniline-indium oxide (In{sub 2}O{sub 3}/PANI) nanocomposite have been prepared by in-situ polymerization of aniline and as-synthesized In{sub 2}O{sub 3} nanoparticles. X-ray diffraction (XRD), Transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Fourier transformation infrared (FTIR) and UV/Vis spectroscopy techniques are used to investigate the structural and optical properties of In{sub 2}O{sub 3}/PANI nanocomposite. TEM analysis shows In{sub 2}O{sub 3} nanoparticles are embedded in PANI nanofibers. FTIR spectra show the good interactions between PANI nanofibers and In{sub 2}O{sub 3} nanoparticles. The band gap and electronic transitions in In{sub 2}O{sub 3}/PANI nanocomposite is determined by using UV/Vis spectra.

Zernike phase-contrast electron cryotomography applied to marine cyanobacteria infected with cyanophages.

PubMed

Dai, Wei; Fu, Caroline; Khant, Htet A; Ludtke, Steven J; Schmid, Michael F; Chiu, Wah

2014-11-01

Advances in electron cryotomography have provided new opportunities to visualize the internal 3D structures of a bacterium. An electron microscope equipped with Zernike phase-contrast optics produces images with markedly increased contrast compared with images obtained by conventional electron microscopy. Here we describe a protocol to apply Zernike phase plate technology for acquiring electron tomographic tilt series of cyanophage-infected cyanobacterial cells embedded in ice, without staining or chemical fixation. We detail the procedures for aligning and assessing phase plates for data collection, and methods for obtaining 3D structures of cyanophage assembly intermediates in the host by subtomogram alignment, classification and averaging. Acquiring three or four tomographic tilt series takes ∼12 h on a JEM2200FS electron microscope. We expect this time requirement to decrease substantially as the technique matures. The time required for annotation and subtomogram averaging varies widely depending on the project goals and data volume.

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.

Qualitative and quantitative interpretation of SEM image using digital image processing.

PubMed

Saladra, Dawid; Kopernik, Magdalena

2016-10-01

The aim of the this study is improvement of qualitative and quantitative analysis of scanning electron microscope micrographs by development of computer program, which enables automatic crack analysis of scanning electron microscopy (SEM) micrographs. Micromechanical tests of pneumatic ventricular assist devices result in a large number of micrographs. Therefore, the analysis must be automatic. Tests for athrombogenic titanium nitride/gold coatings deposited on polymeric substrates (Bionate II) are performed. These tests include microshear, microtension and fatigue analysis. Anisotropic surface defects observed in the SEM micrographs require support for qualitative and quantitative interpretation. Improvement of qualitative analysis of scanning electron microscope images was achieved by a set of computational tools that includes binarization, simplified expanding, expanding, simple image statistic thresholding, the filters Laplacian 1, and Laplacian 2, Otsu and reverse binarization. Several modifications of the known image processing techniques and combinations of the selected image processing techniques were applied. The introduced quantitative analysis of digital scanning electron microscope images enables computation of stereological parameters such as area, crack angle, crack length, and total crack length per unit area. This study also compares the functionality of the developed computer program of digital image processing with existing applications. The described pre- and postprocessing may be helpful in scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy surface investigations. © 2016 The Authors Journal of Microscopy © 2016 Royal Microscopical Society.

Rigorous quantitative elemental microanalysis by scanning electron microscopy/energy dispersive x-ray spectrometry (SEM/EDS) with spectrum processing by NIST DTSA-II

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Newbury, Dale E.; Ritchie, Nicholas W. M.

2014-09-01

Quantitative electron-excited x-ray microanalysis by scanning electron microscopy/silicon drift detector energy dispersive x-ray spectrometry (SEM/SDD-EDS) is capable of achieving high accuracy and high precision equivalent to that of the high spectral resolution wavelength dispersive x-ray spectrometer even when severe peak interference occurs. The throughput of the SDD-EDS enables high count spectra to be measured that are stable in calibration and resolution (peak shape) across the full deadtime range. With this high spectral stability, multiple linear least squares peak fitting is successful for separating overlapping peaks and spectral background. Careful specimen preparation is necessary to remove topography on unknowns and standards. The standards-based matrix correction procedure embedded in the NIST DTSA-II software engine returns quantitative results supported by a complete error budget, including estimates of the uncertainties from measurement statistics and from the physical basis of the matrix corrections. NIST DTSA-II is available free for Java-platforms at: http://www.cstl.nist.gov/div837/837.02/epq/dtsa2/index.html).

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.

Electron Microscopist | Center for Cancer Research

Cancer.gov

PROGRAM DESCRIPTION The Cancer Research Technology Program (CRTP) develops and implements emerging technology, cancer biology expertise and research capabilities to accomplish NCI research objectives. The CRTP is an outward-facing, multi-disciplinary hub purposed to enable the external cancer research community and provides dedicated support to NCI’s intramural Center for Cancer Research (CCR). The dedicated units provide electron microscopy, protein characterization, protein expression, optical microscopy and genetics. These research efforts are an integral part of CCR at the Frederick National Laboratory for Cancer Research (FNLCR). CRTP scientists also work collaboratively with intramural NCI investigators to provide research technologies and expertise. KEY ROLES/RESPONSIBILITIES - THIS POSITION IS CONTINGENT UPON FUNDING APPROVAL The Electron Microscopist will: Operate ultramicrotomes (Leica) and other instrumentation related to the preparation of embedded samples for EM (TEM and SEM) Operate TEM microscopes, (specifically Hitachi, FEI T20 and FEI T12) as well as SEM microscopes (Hitachi); task will include loading samples, screening, and performing data collection for a variety of samples: from cells to proteins Manage maintenance for the TEM and SEM microscopes Provide technical advice to investigators on sample preparation and data collection

An endolithic microbial community in dolomite rock in central Switzerland: characterization by reflection spectroscopy, pigment analyses, scanning electron microscopy, and laser scanning microscopy.

PubMed

Horath, T; Neu, T R; Bachofen, R

2006-04-01

A community of endolithic microorganisms dominated by phototrophs was found as a distinct band a few millimeters below the surface of bare exposed dolomite rocks in the Piora Valley in the Alps. Using in situ reflectance spectroscopy, we detected chlorophyll a (Chl a), phycobilins, carotenoids, and an unknown type of bacteriochlorophyll-like pigment absorbing in vivo at about 720 nm. In cross sections, the data indicated a defined distribution of different groups of organisms perpendicular to the rock surface. High-performance liquid chromatography analyses of pigments extracted with organic solvents confirmed the presence of two types of bacteriochlorophylls besides chlorophylls and various carotenoids. Spherical organisms of varying sizes and small filaments were observed in situ with scanning electron microscopy and confocal laser scanning microscopy (one- and two-photon technique). The latter allowed visualization of the distribution of phototrophic microorganisms by the autofluorescence of their pigments within the rock. Coccoid cyanobacteria of various sizes predominated over filamentous ones. Application of fluorescence-labeled lectins demonstrated that most cyanobacteria were embedded in an exopolymeric matrix. Nucleic acid stains revealed a wide distribution of small heterotrophs. Some biological structures emitting a green autofluorescence remain to be identified.

Theory of the spatial resolution of (scanning) transmission electron microscopy in liquid water or ice layers.

PubMed

de Jonge, Niels

2018-04-01

The sample dependent spatial resolution was calculated for transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and scanning TEM (STEM) of objects (e.g., nanoparticles, proteins) embedded in a layer of liquid water or amorphous ice. The theoretical model includes elastic- and inelastic scattering, beam broadening, and chromatic aberration. Different contrast mechanisms were evaluated as function of the electron dose, the detection angle, and the sample configuration. It was found that the spatial resolution scales with the electron dose to the -1/4th power. Gold- and carbon nanoparticles were examined in the middle of water layers ranging from 0.01--10 µm thickness representing relevant classes of experiments in both materials science and biology. The optimal microscope settings differ between experimental configurations. STEM performs the best for gold nanoparticles for all layer thicknesses, while carbon is best imaged with phase-contrast TEM for thin layers but bright field STEM is preferred for thicker layers. The resolution was also calculated for a water layer enclosed between thin membranes. The influence of chromatic aberration correction for TEM was examined as well. The theory is broadly applicable to other types of materials and sample configurations. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Simulation of bone resorption-repair coupling in vitro.

PubMed

Jones, S J; Gray, C; Boyde, A

1994-10-01

In the normal adult human skeleton, new bone formation by osteoblasts restores the contours of bone surfaces following osteoclastic bone resorption, but the evidence for resorption-repair coupling remains circumstantial. To investigate whether sites of prior resorption, more than the surrounding unresorbed surface, attract osteoblasts or stimulate them to proliferate or make new matrix, we developed a simple in vitro system in which resorption-repair coupling occurs. Resorption pits were produced in mammalian dentine or bone slabs by culturing chick bone-derived cells on them for 2-3 days. The chick cells were swept off and the substrata reseeded with rat calvarial osteoblastic cells, which make bone nodules in vitro, for periods of up to 8 weeks. Cell positions and new bone formation were investigated by ordinary light microscopy, fluorescence and reflection confocal laser microscopy, and SEM, in stained and unstained samples. There was no evidence that the osteoblasts were especially attracted to, or influenced by, the sites of resorption in dentine or bone before cell confluence was reached. Bone formation was identified by light microscopy by the accumulation of matrix, staining with alizarin and calcein and by von Kossa's method, and confirmed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) by using backscattered electron (BSE) and transmitted electron imaging of unembedded samples and BSE imaging of micro-milled embedded material. These new bone patches were located initially in the resorption pits. The model in vitro system may throw new light on the factors that control resorption-repair coupling in the mineralised tissues in vivo.

Interfacial adhesion of carbon fibers

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bascom, Willard D.

1987-01-01

Relative adhesion strengths between AS4, AS1, and XAS carbon fibers and thermoplastic polymers were determined using the embedded single filament test. Polymers studied included polycarbonate, polyphenylene oxide, polyetherimide, polysulfone, polyphenylene oxide blends with polystyrene, and polycarbonate blends with a polycarbonate polysiloxane block copolymer. Fiber surface treatments and sizings improved adhesion somewhat, but adhesion remained well below levels obtained with epoxy matrices. An explanation for the differences between the Hercules and Grafil fibers was sought using X ray photon spectroscopy, wetting, scanning electron microscopy and thermal desorption analysis.

Boutons containing vesicular zinc define a subpopulation of synapses with low AMPAR content in rat hippocampus.

PubMed

Sindreu, Carlos Balet; Varoqui, Hélène; Erickson, Jeffrey D; Pérez-Clausell, Jeús

2003-08-01

Cortical regions of the brain stand out for their high content in synaptic zinc, which may thus be involved in synaptic function. The relative number, chemical nature and transmitter receptor profile of synapses that sequester vesicular zinc are largely unknown. To address this, we combined pre-embedding zinc histochemistry and post-embedding immunogold electron microscopy in rat hippocampus. All giant mossy fibre (MF) terminals in the CA3 region and approximately 45% of boutons making axospinous synapses in stratum radiatum in CA1 contained synaptic vesicles that stained for zinc. Both types of zinc-positive boutons selectively expressed the vesicular zinc transporter ZnT-3. Zinc-positive boutons further immunoreacted to the vesicular glutamate transporter VGLUT-1, but not to the transmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid. Most dendritic spines in CA1 immunoreacted to alpha-amino-3-hydroxy-5-methylisoxazole-4-propionic acid receptor (AMPAR) subunits GluR1-3 (approximately 80%) and to N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDAR) subunits NR1 + NR2A/B (approximately 90%). Synapses made by zinc-positive boutons contained 40% less AMPAR particles than those made by zinc-negative boutons, whereas NMDAR counts were similar. Further analysis indicated that this was due to the reduced synaptic expression of both GluR1 and GluR2 subunits. Hence, the levels of postsynaptic AMPARs may vary according to the presence of vesicular zinc in excitatory afferents to CA1. Zinc-positive and zinc-negative synapses may represent two glutamatergic subpopulations with distinct synaptic signalling.

Concordance of Gleason grading with three-dimensional ultrasound systematic biopsy and biopsy core pre-embedding.

PubMed

van der Aa, Anouk A M A; Mannaerts, Christophe K; van der Linden, Hans; Gayet, Maudy; Schrier, Bart Ph; Mischi, Massimo; Beerlage, Harrie P; Wijkstra, Hessel

2018-02-01

To determine the value of a three-dimensional (3D) greyscale transrectal ultrasound (TRUS)-guided prostate biopsy system and biopsy core pre-embedding method on concordance between Gleason scores of needle biopsies and radical prostatectomy (RP) specimens. Retrospective analysis of prostate biopsies and subsequent RP for PCa in the Jeroen Bosch Hospital, the Netherlands, from 2007 to 2016. Two cohorts were analysed: conventional 2D TRUS-guided biopsies and RP (2007-2013, n = 266) versus 3D TRUS-guided biopsies with pre-embedding (2013-2016, n = 129). The impact of 3D TRUS-guidance with pre-embedding on Gleason score (GS) concordance between biopsy and RP was evaluated using the κ-coefficient. Predictors of biopsy GS 6 upgrading were assessed using logistic regression models. Gleason concordance was comparable between the two cohorts with a κ = 0.44 for the 3D cohort, compared to κ = 0.42 for the 2D cohort. 3D TRUS-guidance with pre-embedding, did not significantly affect the risk of biopsy GS 6 upgrading in univariate and multivariate analysis. 3D TRUS-guidance with biopsy core pre-embedding did not improve Gleason concordance. Improved detection techniques are needed for recognition of low-grade disease upgrading.

Photoluminescence properties of arsenic and boron doped Si3N4 nanocrystal embedded in SiN x O y matrix

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Puglia, Denise; Sombrio, Guilherme; dos Reis, Roberto; Boudinov, Henri

2018-03-01

Photoluminescence emission of Si3N4 nanocrystals embedded in SiN x O y matrices was investigated. Nanocrystals were grown by annealing of silicon oxynitride films deposited by sputtering, passivated in forming gas atmosphere and implanted with boron and arsenic. Emission energy was tuned from green to ultraviolet by changing the composition of SiN x O y matrices. Structural characterization of the nanocrystals was performed by Transmission Electron Microscopy. Photoluminescence at room and low temperatures was analyzed and the results suggest that light emission originates in the interface between the nanocrystals and the matrix. The highest photoluminescence intensity at room temperature was achieved by arsenic doped silicon oxynitride films deposited with an excess of nitrogen.

Domain configurations in dislocations embedded hexagonal manganite systems: From the view of graph theory

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Cheng, Shaobo; Zhang, Dong; Deng, Shiqing; Li, Xing; Li, Jun; Tan, Guotai; Zhu, Yimei; Zhu, Jing

2018-04-01

Topological defects and their interactions often arouse multiple types of emerging phenomena from edge states in Skyrmions to disclination pairs in liquid crystals. In hexagonal manganites, partial edge dislocations, a prototype topological defect, are ubiquitous and they significantly alter the topologically protected domains and their behaviors. Herein, combining electron microscopy experiment and graph theory analysis, we report a systematic study of the connections and configurations of domains in this dislocation embedded system. Rules for domain arrangement are established. The dividing line between domains, which can be attributed by the strain field of dislocations, is accurately described by a genus model from a higher dimension in the graph theory. Our results open a door for the understanding of domain patterns in topologically protected multiferroic systems.

Anisotropic magnetism and spin-dependent transport in Co nanoparticle embedded ZnO thin films

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, D. Y.; Zeng, Y. J.; Pereira, L. M. C.; Batuk, D.; Hadermann, J.; Zhang, Y. Z.; Ye, Z. Z.; Temst, K.; Vantomme, A.; Van Bael, M. J.; Van Haesendonck, C.

2013-07-01

Oriented Co nanoparticles were obtained by Co ion implantation in crystalline ZnO thin films grown by pulsed laser deposition. Transmission electron microscopy revealed the presence of elliptically shaped Co precipitates with nanometer size, which are embedded in the ZnO thin films, resulting in anisotropic magnetic behavior. The low-temperature resistance of the Co-implanted ZnO thin films follows the Efros-Shklovskii type variable-range-hopping. Large negative magnetoresistance (MR) exceeding 10% is observed in a magnetic field of 1 T at 2.5 K and the negative MR survives up to 250 K (0.3%). The negative MR reveals hysteresis as well as anisotropy that correlate well with the magnetic properties, clearly demonstrating the presence of spin-dependent transport.

Filaments in Carbonaceous Meteorites: Mineral Crystals, Modern Bio-Contaminants or Indigenous Microfossils of Trichomic Prokaryotes?

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hoover, Richard B.; Borisyak, A. A.

2011-01-01

Environmental (ESEM) and Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FESEM) investigations have resulted in the detection of a large number of complex filaments in a variety of carbonaceous meteorites. Many of the filaments were observed to be clearly embedded the rock matrix of freshly fractured interior surfaces of the meteorites. The high resolution images obtained combined with tilt and rotation of the stage provide 3-dimensional morphological and morphometric data for the filaments. Calibrated Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDS) and 2-D elemental X-ray maps have provided information on the chemical compositions of the filaments and the minerals of the associated meteorite rock matrix. These observations are used to evaluate diverse hypotheses regarding the possible abiotic or biogenic nature of the filaments found embedded in these meteorites.

Characterisation of biosynthesised silver nanoparticles by scanning electrochemical microscopy (SECM) and voltammetry.

PubMed

Battistel, Dario; Baldi, Franco; Gallo, Michele; Faleri, Claudia; Daniele, Salvatore

2015-01-01

Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) were biosynthesised by a Klebsiella oxytoca strain BAS-10, which, during its growth, is known to produce a branched exopolysaccharide (EPS). Klebsiella oxytoca cultures, treated with AgNO3 and grown under either aerobic or anaerobic conditions, produced silver nanoparticles embedded in EPS (AgNPs-EPS) containing different amounts of Ag(0) and Ag(I) forms. The average size of the AgNPs-EPS was determined by transmission electron microscopy, while the relative abundance of Ag(0)- or Ag(I)-containing AgNPs-EPS was established by scanning electrochemical microscopy (SECM). Moreover, the release of silver(I) species from the various types of AgNPs-EPS was investigated by combining SECM with anodic stripping voltammetry. These measurements allowed obtaining information on the kinetic of silver ions release from AgNPs-EPS and their concentration profiles at the substrate/water interface. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Mitochondrial targeting of the human peptide methionine sulfoxide reductase (MSRA), an enzyme involved in the repair of oxidized proteins.

PubMed

Hansel, Alfred; Kuschel, Lioba; Hehl, Solveig; Lemke, Cornelius; Agricola, Hans-Jürgen; Hoshi, Toshinori; Heinemann, Stefan H

2002-06-01

Peptide methionine sulfoxide reductase (MSRA) catalyzes the reduction of methionine sulfoxide to methionine. This widely expressed enzyme constitutes an important repair mechanism for oxidatively damaged proteins, which accumulate during the manifestation of certain degenerative diseases and aging processes. In addition, it is discussed to be involved in regulatory processes. Here we address the question of how the enzyme's diverse functions are reflected in its subcellular localization. Using fusions of the human version of MSRA with the enhanced green fluorescence protein expressed in various mammalian cell lines, we show a distinct localization at mitochondria. The N-terminal 23 amino acid residues contain the signal for this mitochondrial targeting. Activity tests showed that they are not required for enzyme function. Mitochondrial localization of native MSRA in mouse and rat liver slices was verified with an MSRA-specific antibody by using immunohistochemical methods. The protein was located in the mitochondrial matrix, as demonstrated by using pre-embedding immunostaining and electron microscopy. Mitochondria are the major source of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Therefore, MSRA has to be considered an important means for the general reduction of ROS release from mitochondria.

Coupling crystal plasticity and phase-field damage to simulate β-HMX-based polymer-bonded explosive under shock load

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Grilli, Nicolo; Dandekar, Akshay; Koslowski, Marisol

2017-06-01

The development of high explosive materials requires constitutive models that are able to predict the influence of microstructure and loading conditions on shock sensitivity. In this work a model at the continuum-scale for the polymer-bonded explosive constituted of β-HMX particles embedded in a Sylgard matrix is developed. It includes a Murnaghan equation of state, a crystal plasticity model, based on power-law slip rate and hardening, and a phase field damage model based on crack regularization. The temperature increase due to chemical reactions is introduced by a heat source term, which is validated using results from reactive molecular dynamics simulations. An initial damage field representing pre-existing voids and cracks is used in the simulations to understand the effect of these inhomogeneities on the damage propagation and shock sensitivity. We show the predictions of the crystal plasticity model and the effect of the HMX crystal orientation on the shock initiation and on the dissipated plastic work and damage propagation. The simulation results are validated with ultra-fast dynamic transmission electron microscopy experiments and x-ray experiments carried out at Purdue University. Membership Pending.

Detection of fibrils associated with Rickettsia rickettsii.

PubMed

Todd, W J; Burgdorfer, W; Wray, G P

1983-09-01

The ultrastructural appearance of the "halozone" formed at the interface between the spotted fever agent Rickettsia rickettsii and the cytoplasm of persistently infected cultured vole cells (Microtus pennsylvanicus) was studied by transmission electron microscopy. In sections of epoxy-embedded specimens stained with uranyl acetate and lead citrate, the halozone appeared clear and devoid of ultrastructural features. However, when unembedded preparations of whole infected cells were examined at 1,000 kV, fine structural features were observed within the halozone. These features, associated with the rickettsial outer membrane, were more clearly detectable when the infected cells were extracted with the detergent Triton X-100 before fixation. Under such conditions, long extensions of the rickettsial outer membrane, microfilament-like structures attached to that membrane, and extensive attachments between adjacent rickettsiae were seen. The fine structural features within the rickettsial halozone were also seen at 75 kV when unembedded sections were prepared from polyethylene glycol-embedded specimens. Thus, epoxy-embedding medium obscures the fine structural features within the halozone surrounding the rickettsiae in infected cells.

Detection of fibrils associated with Rickettsia rickettsii.

PubMed Central

Todd, W J; Burgdorfer, W; Wray, G P

1983-01-01

The ultrastructural appearance of the "halozone" formed at the interface between the spotted fever agent Rickettsia rickettsii and the cytoplasm of persistently infected cultured vole cells (Microtus pennsylvanicus) was studied by transmission electron microscopy. In sections of epoxy-embedded specimens stained with uranyl acetate and lead citrate, the halozone appeared clear and devoid of ultrastructural features. However, when unembedded preparations of whole infected cells were examined at 1,000 kV, fine structural features were observed within the halozone. These features, associated with the rickettsial outer membrane, were more clearly detectable when the infected cells were extracted with the detergent Triton X-100 before fixation. Under such conditions, long extensions of the rickettsial outer membrane, microfilament-like structures attached to that membrane, and extensive attachments between adjacent rickettsiae were seen. The fine structural features within the rickettsial halozone were also seen at 75 kV when unembedded sections were prepared from polyethylene glycol-embedded specimens. Thus, epoxy-embedding medium obscures the fine structural features within the halozone surrounding the rickettsiae in infected cells. Images PMID:6411620

Cryogenic coherent X-ray diffraction imaging of biological samples at SACLA: a correlative approach with cryo-electron and light microscopy.

PubMed

Takayama, Yuki; Yonekura, Koji

2016-03-01

Coherent X-ray diffraction imaging at cryogenic temperature (cryo-CXDI) allows the analysis of internal structures of unstained, non-crystalline, whole biological samples in micrometre to sub-micrometre dimensions. Targets include cells and cell organelles. This approach involves preparing frozen-hydrated samples under controlled humidity, transferring the samples to a cryo-stage inside a vacuum chamber of a diffractometer, and then exposing the samples to coherent X-rays. Since 2012, cryo-coherent diffraction imaging (CDI) experiments have been carried out with the X-ray free-electron laser (XFEL) at the SPring-8 Ångstrom Compact free-electron LAser (SACLA) facility in Japan. Complementary use of cryo-electron microscopy and/or light microscopy is highly beneficial for both pre-checking samples and studying the integrity or nature of the sample. This article reports the authors' experience in cryo-XFEL-CDI of biological cells and organelles at SACLA, and describes an attempt towards reliable and higher-resolution reconstructions, including signal enhancement with strong scatterers and Patterson-search phasing.

Photovoltaic devices based on quantum dot functionalized nanowire arrays embedded in an organic matrix

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kung, Patrick; Harris, Nicholas; Shen, Gang; Wilbert, David S.; Baughman, William; Balci, Soner; Dawahre, Nabil; Butler, Lee; Rivera, Elmer; Nikles, David; Kim, Seongsin M.

2012-01-01

Quantum dot (QD) functionalized nanowire arrays are attractive structures for low cost high efficiency solar cells. QDs have the potential for higher quantum efficiency, increased stability and lifetime compared to traditional dyes, as well as the potential for multiple electron generation per photon. Nanowire array scaffolds constitute efficient, low resistance electron transport pathways which minimize the hopping mechanism in the charge transport process of quantum dot solar cells. However, the use of liquid electrolytes as a hole transport medium within such scaffold device structures have led to significant degradation of the QDs. In this work, we first present the synthesis uniform single crystalline ZnO nanowire arrays and their functionalization with InP/ZnS core-shell quantum dots. The structures are characterized using electron microscopy, optical absorption, photoluminescence and Raman spectroscopy. Complementing photoluminescence, transmission electron microanalysis is used to reveal the successful QD attachment process and the atomistic interface between the ZnO and the QD. Energy dispersive spectroscopy reveals the co-localized presence of indium, phosphorus, and sulphur, suggestive of the core-shell nature of the QDs. The functionalized nanowire arrays are subsequently embedded in a poly-3(hexylthiophene) hole transport matrix with a high degree of polymer infiltration to complete the device structure prior to measurement.

Effects of micronisation and dehulling of pre-soaked bambara groundnut seeds on microstructure and functionality of the resulting flours.

PubMed

Ogundele, Opeolu M; Minnaar, Amanda; Emmambux, M Naushad

2017-01-01

Functional properties of flours from pre-soaked and micronised (130°C) whole and dehulled bambara seeds (5, 10 and 15min) were determined. An increase in micronisation time significantly reduced the pasting viscosity of the flours. Significant reductions in the differential scanning calorimetry endothermic peak enthalpies and loss of birefringence in the starch were found, indicating starch pre-gelatinisation when micronised. The low viscous paste of resultant flours seems to be related to protein denaturation as shown by decrease in nitrogen solubility index. Starch was embedded in a protein matrix as shown by confocal laser scanning microscopy. This denatured protein matrixes could be in part preventing starch hydration and dispersion during pasting and thus reduced viscosity. Dehulling reduced the pasting viscosity suggesting higher effect of micronisation for dehulled than whole samples. Resulting flours can be useful ingredients in protein energy-dense foods due to low viscosity. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Quantitative Connection between Ensemble Thermodynamics and Single-Molecule Kinetics: A Case Study Using Cryogenic Electron Microscopy and Single-Molecule Fluorescence Resonance Energy Transfer Investigations of the Ribosome.

PubMed

Thompson, Colin D Kinz; Sharma, Ajeet K; Frank, Joachim; Gonzalez, Ruben L; Chowdhury, Debashish

2015-08-27

At equilibrium, thermodynamic and kinetic information can be extracted from biomolecular energy landscapes by many techniques. However, while static, ensemble techniques yield thermodynamic data, often only dynamic, single-molecule techniques can yield the kinetic data that describe transition-state energy barriers. Here we present a generalized framework based upon dwell-time distributions that can be used to connect such static, ensemble techniques with dynamic, single-molecule techniques, and thus characterize energy landscapes to greater resolutions. We demonstrate the utility of this framework by applying it to cryogenic electron microscopy (cryo-EM) and single-molecule fluorescence resonance energy transfer (smFRET) studies of the bacterial ribosomal pre-translocation complex. Among other benefits, application of this framework to these data explains why two transient, intermediate conformations of the pre-translocation complex, which are observed in a cryo-EM study, may not be observed in several smFRET studies.

Micro-wrinkling and delamination-induced buckling of stretchable electronic structures

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

Oyewole, O. K.; Department of Materials Science and Engineering, Kwara State University, Malete, P.M.B 1530, Ilorin, Kwara State; Yu, D.

This paper presents the results of experimental and theoretical/computational micro-wrinkles and buckling on the surfaces of stretchable poly-dimethylsiloxane (PDMS) coated with nano-scale Gold (Au) layers. The wrinkles and buckles are formed by the unloading of pre-stretched PDMS/Au structure after the evaporation of nano-scale Au layers. They are then characterized using atomic force microscopy and scanning electron microscopy. The critical stresses required for wrinkling and buckling are analyzed using analytical models. The possible interfacial cracking that can occur along with film buckling is also studied using finite element simulations of the interfacial crack growth. The implications of the results are discussedmore » for potential applications of micro-wrinkles and micro-buckles in stretchable electronic structures and biomedical devices.« less

Beam deceleration for block-face scanning electron microscopy of embedded biological tissue.

PubMed

Ohta, Keisuke; Sadayama, Shoji; Togo, Akinobu; Higashi, Ryuhei; Tanoue, Ryuichiro; Nakamura, Kei-ichiro

2012-04-01

The beam deceleration (BD) method for scanning electron microscopes (SEM) also referred to as "retarding" was applied to back-scattered electron (BSE) imaging of the flat block face of a resin embedded biological specimen under low accelerating voltage and low beam current conditions. BSE imaging was performed with 0-4 kV of BD on en bloc stained rat hepatocyte. BD drastically enhanced the compositional contrast of the specimen and also improved the resolution at low landing energy levels (1.5-3 keV) and a low beam current (10 pA). These effects also functioned in long working distance observation, however, stage tilting caused uncorrectable astigmatism in BD observation. Stage tilting is mechanically required for a FIB/SEM, so we designed a novel specimen holder to minimize the unfavorable tilting effect. The FIB/SEM 3D reconstruction using the new holder showed a reasonable contrast and resolution high enough to analyze individual cell organelles and also the mitochondrial cristae structures (~5 nm) of the hepatocyte. These results indicate the advantages of BD for block face imaging of biological materials such as cells and tissues under low-voltage and low beam current conditions. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Charging/discharging behavior and mechanism of silicon quantum dots embedded in amorphous silicon carbide films

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wen, Xixing; Zeng, Xiangbin; Zheng, Wenjun; Liao, Wugang; Feng, Feng

2015-01-01

The charging/discharging behavior of Si quantum dots (QDs) embedded in amorphous silicon carbide (a-SiCx) was investigated based on the Al/insulating layer/Si QDs embedded in a-SiCx/SiO2/p-Si (metal-insulator-quantum dots-oxide-silicon) multilayer structure by capacitance-voltage (C-V) and conductance-voltage (G-V) measurements. Transmission electron microscopy and Raman scattering spectroscopy measurements reveal the microstructure and distribution of Si QDs. The occurrence and shift of conductance peaks indicate the carrier transfer and the charging/discharging behavior of Si QDs. The multilayer structure shows a large memory window of 5.2 eV at ±8 V sweeping voltage. Analysis of the C-V and G-V results allows a quantification of the Coulomb charging energy and the trapped charge density associated with the charging/discharging behavior. It is found that the memory window is related to the size effect, and Si QDs with large size or low Coulomb charging energy can trap two or more electrons by changing the charging voltage. Meanwhile, the estimated lower potential barrier height between Si QD and a-SiCx, and the lower Coulomb charging energy of Si QDs could enhance the charging and discharging effect of Si QDs and lead to an enlarged memory window. Further studies of the charging/discharging mechanism of Si QDs embedded in a-SiCx can promote the application of Si QDs in low-power consumption semiconductor memory devices.

Low-Density, Refractory Multi-Principal Element Alloys of the Cr-Nb-Ti-V-Zr System: Microstructure and Phase Analysis (Postprint)

DTIC Science & Technology

2012-12-19

remelted five times, being flipped for each melt, and was in a liquid state for about 5 min during each melting event. The pre- pared cigar -shaped...section surfaces using a 136 Vickers diamond pyramid under a 500 g load applied for 20 s. The micro- structure was analyzed by scanning electron ...microscopy (SEM) using a Quanta 600F scanning electron microscope (FEI, North America NanoPort, Hillsboro, OR) equipped with backscatter electron (BSE

The control of ice crystal growth and effect on porous structure of konjac glucomannan-based aerogels.

PubMed

Ni, Xuewen; Ke, Fan; Xiao, Man; Wu, Kao; Kuang, Ying; Corke, Harold; Jiang, Fatang

2016-11-01

Konjac glucomannan (KGM)-based aerogels were prepared using a combination of sol-gel and freeze-drying methods. Preparation conditions were chosen to control ice crystal growth and aerogel structure formation. The ice crystals formed during pre-freezing were observed by low temperature polarizing microscopy, and images of aerogel pores were obtained by scanning electron microscopy. The size of ice crystals were calculated and size distribution maps were drawn, and similarly for aerogel pores. Results showed that ice crystal growth and aerogel pore sizes may be controlled by varying pre-freezing temperatures, KGM concentration and glyceryl monostearate concentration. The impact of pre-freezing temperatures on ice crystal growth was explained as combining ice crystal growth rate with nucleation rate, while the impacts of KGM and glyceryl monostearate concentration on ice crystal growth were interpreted based on their influences on sol network structure. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Fabrication and characterization of novel microsphere-embedded optical devices for enhancing microscopy resolution

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Darafsheh, Arash

2018-02-01

Microsphere-assisted imaging can be incorporated onto conventional light microscopes allowing wide-field and flourescence imaging with enhanced resolution. We demonstrated that imaging of specimens containing subdiffraction-limited features is achievable through high-index microspheres embedded in a transparent thin film placed over the specimen. We fabricated novel microsphere-embedded microscope slides composed of barium titanate glass microspheres (with diameter 10-100 μm and refractive index 1.9-2.2) embedded in a transparent polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) elastomer layer with controllable thickness. We characterized the imaging performance of such microsphere-embedded devices in white-light microscopies, by measuring the imaging resolution, field-of-view, and magnification as a function of microsphere size. Our results inform on the design of novel optical devices, such as microsphere-embedded microscope slides for imaging applications.

Electrostatic-assembly three-dimensional CNTs/rGO implanted Cu2O composite spheres and its photocatalytic properties

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zeng, Bin; Chen, Xiaohua; Ning, Xutao; Chen, Chuansheng; Deng, Weina; Huang, Qun; Zhong, Wenbin

2013-07-01

Carbon nanotubes/reduced graphene oxides (CNTs/rGO) implanting cuprous oxide (Cu2O) composite spheres have been successfully prepared via an electrostatic self-assemble with microwave-assisted. Scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy observations confirmed that the hybrid of CNTs and rGO was implanted into Cu2O matrix and formed a three-dimensional embedded micrometer sphere structure. The possible formation mechanism of this architecture was also proposed. The photocatalytic properties were further investigated by evaluating on photo-degradation of a pollutant methyl orange (MO). The experimental results indicated that this novel architecture enhanced photocatalytic performance with 99.8% decomposition of MO after 40 min in the presence of H2O2 under visible light irradiation, which was much higher than that of pure Cu2O powders (67.9%). This study provides a convenient method for assembling various CNTs/rGO-semiconductor composites in the future applications of water purification as well as optoelectronic fields at a large scale.

Effect of intermetallic phases on the anodic oxidation and corrosion of 5A06 aluminum alloy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Song-mei; Li, Ying-dong; Zhang, You; Liu, Jian-hua; Yu, Mei

2015-02-01

Intermetallic phases were found to influence the anodic oxidation and corrosion behavior of 5A06 aluminum alloy. Scattered intermetallic particles were examined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) after pretreatment. The anodic film was investigated by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and its corrosion resistance was analyzed by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and Tafel polarization in NaCl solution. The results show that the size of Al-Fe-Mg-Mn particles gradually decreases with the iron content. During anodizing, these intermetallic particles are gradually dissolved, leading to the complex porosity in the anodic film beneath the particles. After anodizing, the residual particles are mainly silicon-containing phases, which are embedded in the anodic film. Electrochemical measurements indicate that the porous anodic film layer is easily penetrated, and the barrier plays a dominant role in the overall protection. Meanwhile, self-healing behavior is observed during the long immersion time.

Green synthesis of tea Ag nanocomposite hydrogels via mint leaf extraction for effective antibacterial activity.

PubMed

Jayaramudu, Tippabattini; Varaprasad, Kokkarachedu; Raghavendra, Gownolla Malegowd; Sadiku, E R; Mohana Raju, Konduru; Amalraj, John

2017-10-01

In this report, we investigated the swelling behavior and antibacterial property of nanosilver composite hydrogels made from tea with polyacrylamide via a free-radical polymerization and green process technique. This is probably for the first time; tea-based nano silver composite hydrogels were developed. The composite hydrogels comprise embedded nano silver particles in the tea hydrogel matrix via a green process with mint leaf extract. The size of the nano silver particles in the hydrogel matrix was found to be < 10 nm. The nano silver composite hydrogels formed and their blank hydrogels from the mint leaf were characterized by using ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy, thermogravimetric analysis and X-ray diffraction studies. The nano silver composite hydrogels developed exhibit eminent antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. This clearly indicates that the nano silver composite hydrogels are potential candidates for antimicrobial applications.

Starch nanoparticle as a vitamin E-TPGS carrier loaded in silk fibroin-poly(vinyl alcohol)-Aloe vera nanofibrous dressing.

PubMed

Kheradvar, Shadi Alsadat; Nourmohammadi, Jhamak; Tabesh, Hadi; Bagheri, Behnam

2018-06-01

Core-sheath nanofibrous mat as a new vitamin E (VE) delivery system based on silk fibroin (SF)/poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA)/aloe vera (AV) was successfully prepared by the electrospinning method. Initially, VE-loaded starch nanoparticles were produced and then incorporated into the best beadless SF-PVA-AV nanofibers. The successful loading of VE in starch nanoparticles was proved by Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy. The scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy indicated that spherical nanoparticles were successfully embedded within the nanofibers. In vitro release studies demonstrated that the release of VE was controlled by Fickian diffusion and was faster in samples containing more nanoparticles. Fibroblast attachment, proliferation, and collagen secretion were enhanced after adding AV and VE to the SF-PVA nanomatrix. Moreover, the incorporation of VE into the nanocomposite dressing enhanced antioxidant activity, which can have a positive effect on wound healing process by protecting the cells from toxic oxidation products. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

3D reconstruction of the Shigella T3SS transmembrane regions reveals 12-fold symmetry and novel features throughout

PubMed Central

Hodgkinson, Julie L.; Horsley, Ashley; Stabat, David; Simon, Martha; Johnson, Steven; da Fonseca, Paula C. A.; Morris, Edward P.; Wall, Joseph S.; Lea, Susan M.; Blocker, Ariel J.

2009-01-01

Type III secretion systems (T3SSs) mediate bacterial protein translocation into eukaryotic cells, a process essential for virulence of many Gram-negative pathogens. They are composed of a cytoplasmic secretion machinery and a base bridging both bacterial membranes into which a hollow, external needle is embedded. When isolated, the latter two parts are termed ‘needle complex’ (NC). Incomplete understanding of NC structure hampers studies of T3SS function. To estimate the stoichiometry of its components, the mass f its sub-domains was measured by scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM). Subunit symmetries were determined by analysis of top and side views within negatively stained samples in low dose transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Application of 12-fold symmetry allowed generation of a 21-25Å resolution three-dimensional (3D) reconstruction of the NC base, revealing many new features and permitting tentative docking of the crystal structure of EscJ, an inner membrane component. PMID:19396171

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.

Response to lead pollution: mycorrhizal Pinus sylvestris forms the biomineral pyromorphite in roots and needles.

PubMed

Bizo, Maria L; Nietzsche, Sandor; Mansfeld, Ulrich; Langenhorst, Falko; Majzlan, Juraj; Göttlicher, Jörg; Ozunu, Alexandru; Formann, Steffi; Krause, Katrin; Kothe, Erika

2017-06-01

The development of mycorrhized pine seedlings grown in the presence of lead was assessed in order to investigate how higher plants can tolerate lead pollution in the environment. Examination with scanning electron microscopy (SEM) revealed that Pb uptake was prominent in the roots, while a smaller amount was found in pine needles, which requires symplastic uptake and root-to-shoot transfer. Lead was concentrated in nanocrystalline aggregates attached to the cell wall and, according to elemental microanalyses, is associated with phosphorus and chlorine. The identification of the nanocrystalline phase in roots and needles was performed by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and synchrotron X-ray micro-diffraction (μ-XRD), revealing the presence of pyromorphite, Pb 5 [PO 4 ] 3 (Cl, OH), in both roots and needles. The extracellular embedding of pyromorphite within plant cell walls, featuring an indented appearance of the cell wall due to a callus-like outcrop of minerals, suggests a biogenic origin. This biomineralization is interpreted as a defense mechanism of the plant against lead pollution.

Electron microscopy and positron annihilation study of CdSe nanoclusters embedded in MgO

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

van Huis, M. A.; van Veen, A.; Schut, H.; Eijt, S. W. H.; Kooi, B. J.; De Hosson, J. Th. M.

2004-06-01

CdSe nanoclusters are created in MgO by means of co-implantation of 280 keV, 1 × 10 16 Cd ions cm -2 and 210 keV, 1 × 10 16 Se ions cm -2 in single crystals of MgO(0 0 1) and subsequent thermal annealing at a temperature of 1300 K. The structural properties and the orientation relationship between the CdSe and the MgO are investigated using cross-sectional transmission electron microscopy (XTEM). The crystal structure of the nanoclusters depends on their size. The smallest nanoclusters with a size below 5 nm have the cubic rocksalt crystal structure. The larger nanoclusters have a different (most likely the cubic sphalerite) crystal structure. The defect evolution in the sample after ion implantation and during thermal annealing is investigated using Doppler broadening positron beam analysis (PBA). The defect evolution in samples co-implanted with Cd and Se is compared to the defect evolution in samples implanted with only Cd or only Se ions.

Preparation of biocompatible magnetite-carboxymethyl cellulose nanocomposite: characterization of nanocomposite by FTIR, XRD, FESEM and TEM.

PubMed

Habibi, Neda

2014-10-15

The preparation and characterization of magnetite-carboxymethyl cellulose nano-composite (M-CMC) material is described. Magnetite nano-particles were synthesized by a modified co-precipitation method using ferrous chloride tetrahydrate and ferric chloride hexahydrate in ammonium hydroxide solution. The M-CMC nano-composite particles were synthesized by embedding the magnetite nanoparticles inside carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) using a freshly prepared mixture of Fe3O4 with CMC precursor. Morphology, particle size, and structural properties of magnetite-carboxymethyl cellulose nano-composite was accomplished using X-ray powder diffraction (XRD), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), Fourier transformed infrared (FTIR) and field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) analysis. As a result, magnetite nano-particles with an average size of 35nm were obtained. The biocompatible Fe3O4-carboxymethyl cellulose nano-composite particles obtained from the natural CMC polymers have a potential range of application in biomedical field. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Facile and green fabrication of electrospun poly(vinyl alcohol) nanofibrous mats doped with narrowly dispersed silver nanoparticles.

PubMed

Lin, Song; Wang, Run-Ze; Yi, Ying; Wang, Zheng; Hao, Li-Mei; Wu, Jin-Hui; Hu, Guo-Han; He, Hua

2014-01-01

Submicrometer-scale poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) nanofibrous mats loaded with aligned and narrowly dispersed silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) are obtained via the electrospinning process from pure water. This facile and green procedure did not need any other chemicals or organic solvents. The doped AgNPs are narrowly distributed, 4.3±0.7 nm and their contents on the nanofabric mats can be easily tuned via in situ ultraviolet light irradiation or under preheating conditions, but with different particle sizes and size distributions. The morphology, loading concentrations, and dispersities of AgNPs embedded within PVA nanofiber mats are characterized by transmission electron microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, ultraviolet-visible spectra, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and X-ray diffraction, respectively. Moreover, the biocidal activities and cytotoxicity of the electrospun nanofiber mats are determined by zone of inhibition, dynamic shaking method, and cell counting kit (CCK)-8 assay tests.

Spin-coated epoxy resin embedding technique enables facile SEM/FIB thickness determination of porous metal oxide ultra-thin films.

PubMed

Peña, B; Owen, G Rh; Dettelbach, K E; Berlinguette, C P

2018-01-25

A facile nonsubjective method was designed to measure porous nonconductive iron oxide film thickness using a combination of a focused ion beam (FIB) and scanning electron microscopy. Iron oxide films are inherently nonconductive and porous, therefore the objective of this investigation was to optimize a methodology that would increase the conductivity of the film to facilitate high resolution imaging with a scanning electron microscopy and to preserve the porous nature of the film that could potentially be damaged by the energy of the FIB. Sputter coating the sample with a thin layer of iridium before creating the cross section with the FIB decreased sample charging and drifting, but differentiating the iron layer from the iridium coating with backscattered electron imaging was not definitive, making accurate assumptions of the delineation between the two metals difficult. Moreover, the porous nature of the film was lost due to beam damage following the FIB process. A thin layer plastication technique was therefore used to embed the porous film in epoxy resin that would provide support for the film during the FIB process. However, the thickness of the resin created using conventional thin layer plastication processing varied across the sample, making the measuring process only possible in areas where the resin layer was at its thinnest. Such variation required navigating the area for ideal milling areas, which increased the subjectivity of the process. We present a method to create uniform thin resin layers, of controlled thickness, that are ideal for quantifying the thickness of porous nonconductive films with FIB/scanning electron microscopy. © 2018 The Authors Journal of Microscopy © 2018 Royal Microscopical Society.

Hierarchical super-structure identified by polarized light microscopy, electron microscopy and nanoindentation: Implications for the limits of biological control over the growth mode of abalone sea shells

PubMed Central

2012-01-01

Background Mollusc shells are commonly investigated using high-resolution imaging techniques based on cryo-fixation. Less detailed information is available regarding the light-optical properties. Sea shells of Haliotis pulcherina were embedded for polishing in defined orientations in order to investigate the interface between prismatic calcite and nacreous aragonite by standard materialographic methods. A polished thin section of the interface was prepared with a defined thickness of 60 μm for quantitative birefringence analysis using polarized light and LC-PolScope microscopy. Scanning electron microscopy images were obtained for comparison. In order to study structural-mechanical relationships, nanoindentation experiments were performed. Results Incident light microscopy revealed a super-structure in semi-transparent regions of the polished cross-section under a defined angle. This super-structure is not visible in transmitted birefringence analysis due to the blurred polarization of small nacre platelets and numerous organic interfaces. The relative orientation and homogeneity of calcite prisms was directly identified, some of them with their optical axes exactly normal to the imaging plane. Co-oriented "prism colonies" were identified by polarized light analyses. The nacreous super-structure was also visualized by secondary electron imaging under defined angles. The domains of the super-structure were interpreted to consist of crystallographically aligned platelet stacks. Nanoindentation experiments showed that mechanical properties changed with the same periodicity as the domain size. Conclusions In this study, we have demonstrated that insights into the growth mechanisms of nacre can be obtained by conventional light-optical methods. For example, we observed super-structures formed by co-oriented nacre platelets as previously identified using X-ray Photo-electron Emission Microscopy (X-PEEM) [Gilbert et al., Journal of the American Chemical Society 2008, 130:17519–17527]. Polarized optical microscopy revealed unprecedented super-structures in the calcitic shell part. This bears, in principle, the potential for in vivo studies, which might be useful for investigating the growth modes of nacre and other shell types. PMID:22967319

Hard X-ray irradiation of cosmic silicate analogs: structural evolution and astrophysical implications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gavilan, L.; Jäger, C.; Simionovici, A.; Lemaire, J. L.; Sabri, T.; Foy, E.; Yagoubi, S.; Henning, T.; Salomon, D.; Martinez-Criado, G.

2016-03-01

Context. Protoplanetary disks, interstellar clouds, and active galactic nuclei contain X-ray-dominated regions. X-rays interact with the dust and gas present in such environments. While a few laboratory X-ray irradiation experiments have been performed on ices, X-ray irradiation experiments on bare cosmic dust analogs have been scarce up to now. Aims: Our goal is to study the effects of hard X-rays on cosmic dust analogs via in situ X-ray diffraction. By using a hard X-ray synchrotron nanobeam, we seek to simulate cumulative X-ray exposure on dust grains during their lifetime in these astrophysical environments and provide an upper limit on the effect of hard X-rays on dust grain structure. Methods: We prepared enstatite (MgSiO3) nanograins, which are analogs to cosmic silicates, via the melting-quenching technique. These amorphous grains were then annealed to obtain polycrystalline grains. These were characterized via scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) before irradiation. Powder samples were prepared in X-ray transparent substrates and were irradiated with hard X-rays nanobeams (29.4 keV) provided by beamline ID16B of the European Synchrotron Radiation Facility (Grenoble). X-ray diffraction images were recorded in transmission mode, and the ensuing diffractograms were analyzed as a function of the total X-ray exposure time. Results: We detected the amorphization of polycrystalline silicates embedded in an organic matrix after an accumulated X-ray exposure of 6.4 × 1027 eV cm-2. Pure crystalline silicate grains (without resin) do not exhibit amorphization. None of the amorphous silicate samples (pure and embedded in resin) underwent crystallization. We analyze the evolution of the polycrystalline sample embedded in an organic matrix as a function of X-ray exposure. Conclusions: Loss of diffraction peak intensity, peak broadening, and the disappearance of discrete spots and arcs reveal the amorphization of the resin embedded (originally polycrystalline) silicate sample. We explore the astrophysical implications of this laboratory result as an upper limit to the effect of X-rays on the structure of cosmic silicates.

External cervical resorption: an analysis using cone beam and microfocus computed tomography and scanning electron microscopy.

PubMed

Gunst, V; Mavridou, A; Huybrechts, B; Van Gorp, G; Bergmans, L; Lambrechts, P

2013-09-01

To provide a three-dimensional representation of external cervical resorption (ECR) with microscopy, stereo microscopy, cone beam computed tomography (CT), microfocus CT and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). External cervical resorption is an aggressive form of root resorption, leading to a loss of dental hard tissues. This is due to clastic action, activated by a damage of the covering cementum and stimulated probably by infection. Clinically, it is a challenging situation as it is characterized by a late symptomatology. This is due to the pericanalar protection from a resorption-resistant sheet, composed of pre-dentine and surrounding dentine. The clastic activity is often associated with an attempt to repair, seen by the formation of osteoid tissue. Cone beam CT is extremely useful in the diagnoses and treatment planning of ECR. SEM analyses provide a better insight into the activity of osteoclasts. The root canal is surrounded by a layer of dentine that is resistant to resorption. © 2013 International Endodontic Journal. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Large-scale Scanning Transmission Electron Microscopy (Nanotomy) of Healthy and Injured Zebrafish Brain.

PubMed

Kuipers, Jeroen; Kalicharan, Ruby D; Wolters, Anouk H G; van Ham, Tjakko J; Giepmans, Ben N G

2016-05-25

Large-scale 2D electron microscopy (EM), or nanotomy, is the tissue-wide application of nanoscale resolution electron microscopy. Others and we previously applied large scale EM to human skin pancreatic islets, tissue culture and whole zebrafish larvae(1-7). Here we describe a universally applicable method for tissue-scale scanning EM for unbiased detection of sub-cellular and molecular features. Nanotomy was applied to investigate the healthy and a neurodegenerative zebrafish brain. Our method is based on standardized EM sample preparation protocols: Fixation with glutaraldehyde and osmium, followed by epoxy-resin embedding, ultrathin sectioning and mounting of ultrathin-sections on one-hole grids, followed by post staining with uranyl and lead. Large-scale 2D EM mosaic images are acquired using a scanning EM connected to an external large area scan generator using scanning transmission EM (STEM). Large scale EM images are typically ~ 5 - 50 G pixels in size, and best viewed using zoomable HTML files, which can be opened in any web browser, similar to online geographical HTML maps. This method can be applied to (human) tissue, cross sections of whole animals as well as tissue culture(1-5). Here, zebrafish brains were analyzed in a non-invasive neuronal ablation model. We visualize within a single dataset tissue, cellular and subcellular changes which can be quantified in various cell types including neurons and microglia, the brain's macrophages. In addition, nanotomy facilitates the correlation of EM with light microscopy (CLEM)(8) on the same tissue, as large surface areas previously imaged using fluorescent microscopy, can subsequently be subjected to large area EM, resulting in the nano-anatomy (nanotomy) of tissues. In all, nanotomy allows unbiased detection of features at EM level in a tissue-wide quantifiable manner.

Large-scale Scanning Transmission Electron Microscopy (Nanotomy) of Healthy and Injured Zebrafish Brain

PubMed Central

Kuipers, Jeroen; Kalicharan, Ruby D.; Wolters, Anouk H. G.

2016-01-01

Large-scale 2D electron microscopy (EM), or nanotomy, is the tissue-wide application of nanoscale resolution electron microscopy. Others and we previously applied large scale EM to human skin pancreatic islets, tissue culture and whole zebrafish larvae1-7. Here we describe a universally applicable method for tissue-scale scanning EM for unbiased detection of sub-cellular and molecular features. Nanotomy was applied to investigate the healthy and a neurodegenerative zebrafish brain. Our method is based on standardized EM sample preparation protocols: Fixation with glutaraldehyde and osmium, followed by epoxy-resin embedding, ultrathin sectioning and mounting of ultrathin-sections on one-hole grids, followed by post staining with uranyl and lead. Large-scale 2D EM mosaic images are acquired using a scanning EM connected to an external large area scan generator using scanning transmission EM (STEM). Large scale EM images are typically ~ 5 - 50 G pixels in size, and best viewed using zoomable HTML files, which can be opened in any web browser, similar to online geographical HTML maps. This method can be applied to (human) tissue, cross sections of whole animals as well as tissue culture1-5. Here, zebrafish brains were analyzed in a non-invasive neuronal ablation model. We visualize within a single dataset tissue, cellular and subcellular changes which can be quantified in various cell types including neurons and microglia, the brain's macrophages. In addition, nanotomy facilitates the correlation of EM with light microscopy (CLEM)8 on the same tissue, as large surface areas previously imaged using fluorescent microscopy, can subsequently be subjected to large area EM, resulting in the nano-anatomy (nanotomy) of tissues. In all, nanotomy allows unbiased detection of features at EM level in a tissue-wide quantifiable manner. PMID:27285162

Measurement of Trace Constituents by Electron-Excited X-Ray Microanalysis with Energy-Dispersive Spectrometry.

PubMed

Newbury, Dale E; Ritchie, Nicholas W M

2016-06-01

Electron-excited X-ray microanalysis performed with scanning electron microscopy and energy-dispersive spectrometry (EDS) has been used to measure trace elemental constituents of complex multielement materials, where "trace" refers to constituents present at concentrations below 0.01 (mass fraction). High count spectra measured with silicon drift detector EDS were quantified using the standards/matrix correction protocol embedded in the NIST DTSA-II software engine. Robust quantitative analytical results for trace constituents were obtained from concentrations as low as 0.000500 (mass fraction), even in the presence of significant peak interferences from minor (concentration 0.01≤C≤0.1) and major (C>0.1) constituents. Limits of detection as low as 0.000200 were achieved in the absence of peak interference.

Ultrastructural histochemical investigations of "dense deposit disease". Pathogenetic approach to a special type of mesangiocapillary glomerulonephritis.

PubMed

Muda, A O; Barsotti, P; Marinozzi, V

1988-01-01

Dense deposit disease is characterized by the presence of intramembranous dense deposits; their constituents are unknown but immunological and biochemical studies have demonstrated that they contain no gamma-globulins or any other plasma protein. In order to clarify the nature of the dense deposits better, we investigated their most distinctive character, (marked electron-density) by means of ultrastructural histochemistry techniques using thin sections from Formaldehyde fixed, OsO4 postfixed and Epon embedded specimens collected for diagnostic electron microscopy. The dense deposits have a higher osmium affinity than the lamina densa of normal basement membranes, and the electron-density is strictly osmium-dependent suggesting the presence of a lipid component. Further data, obtained using an extraction method for lipids, seems to confirm our hypothesis.

Transmission electron microscopy as a tool for nanocrystal characterization pre- and post-injector

PubMed Central

Stevenson, H. P.; DePonte, D. P.; Makhov, A. M.; Conway, James F.; Zeldin, O. B.; Boutet, S.; Calero, G.; Cohen, A. E.

2014-01-01

Recent advancements at the Linac Coherent Light Source X-ray free-electron laser (XFEL) enabling successful serial femtosecond diffraction experiments using nanometre-sized crystals (NCs) have opened up the possibility of X-ray structure determination of proteins that produce only submicrometre crystals such as many membrane proteins. Careful crystal pre-characterization including compatibility testing of the sample delivery method is essential to ensure efficient use of the limited beamtime available at XFEL sources. This work demonstrates the utility of transmission electron microscopy for detecting and evaluating NCs within the carrier solutions of liquid injectors. The diffraction quality of these crystals may be assessed by examining the crystal lattice and by calculating the fast Fourier transform of the image. Injector reservoir solutions, as well as solutions collected post-injection, were evaluated for three types of protein NCs (i) the membrane protein PTHR1, (ii) the multi-protein complex Pol II-GFP and (iii) the soluble protein lysozyme. Our results indicate that the concentration and diffraction quality of NCs, particularly those with high solvent content and sensitivity to mechanical manipulation may be affected by the delivery process. PMID:24914151

Fabrication and textural characterization of nanoporous carbon electrodes embedded with CuO nanoparticles for supercapacitors.

PubMed

Prasad, Kumaresa P S; Dhawale, Dattatray S; Sivakumar, Thiripuranthagan; Aldeyab, Salem S; Zaidi, Javaid S M; Ariga, Katsuhiko; Vinu, Ajayan

2011-08-01

We introduce a novel strategy of fabricating nanoporous carbons loaded with different amounts of CuO nanoparticles via a hard templating approach, using copper-containing mesoporous silica as the template and sucrose as the carbon source. The nature and dispersion of the CuO nanoparticles on the surface of the nanoporous carbons were investigated by x-ray diffraction (XRD), high-resolution scanning electron microscopy (HRSEM) and high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM). XRD results reveal that nanoporous carbons with embedded CuO nanoparticles exhibit a well-ordered mesoporous structure, whereas the nitrogen adsorption measurements indicate the presence of excellent textural characteristics such as high surface area, large pore volume and uniform pore size distribution. The amount of CuO nanoparticles in the nanochannels of the nanoporous carbon could be controlled by simply varying the Si/Cu molar ratio of the mesoporous silica template. Morphological characterization by SEM and TEM reveals that high-quality CuO nanoparticles are distributed homogeneously within the nanoporous carbon framework. The supercapacitance behavior of the CuO-loaded nanoporous carbons was investigated. The material with a small amount of CuO in the mesochannels and high surface area affords a maximum specific capacitance of 300 F g -1 at a 20 mV s -1 scan rate in an aqueous electrolyte solution. A supercapacitor containing the CuO-loaded nanoporous carbon is highly stable and exhibits a long cycle life with 91% specific capacitance retained after 1000 cycles.

Fabrication and textural characterization of nanoporous carbon electrodes embedded with CuO nanoparticles for supercapacitors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Prasad, Kumaresa P. S.; Dhawale, Dattatray S.; Sivakumar, Thiripuranthagan; Aldeyab, Salem S.; Zaidi, Javaid S. M.; Ariga, Katsuhiko; Vinu, Ajayan

2011-08-01

We introduce a novel strategy of fabricating nanoporous carbons loaded with different amounts of CuO nanoparticles via a hard templating approach, using copper-containing mesoporous silica as the template and sucrose as the carbon source. The nature and dispersion of the CuO nanoparticles on the surface of the nanoporous carbons were investigated by x-ray diffraction (XRD), high-resolution scanning electron microscopy (HRSEM) and high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM). XRD results reveal that nanoporous carbons with embedded CuO nanoparticles exhibit a well-ordered mesoporous structure, whereas the nitrogen adsorption measurements indicate the presence of excellent textural characteristics such as high surface area, large pore volume and uniform pore size distribution. The amount of CuO nanoparticles in the nanochannels of the nanoporous carbon could be controlled by simply varying the Si/Cu molar ratio of the mesoporous silica template. Morphological characterization by SEM and TEM reveals that high-quality CuO nanoparticles are distributed homogeneously within the nanoporous carbon framework. The supercapacitance behavior of the CuO-loaded nanoporous carbons was investigated. The material with a small amount of CuO in the mesochannels and high surface area affords a maximum specific capacitance of 300 F g-1 at a 20 mV s-1 scan rate in an aqueous electrolyte solution. A supercapacitor containing the CuO-loaded nanoporous carbon is highly stable and exhibits a long cycle life with 91% specific capacitance retained after 1000 cycles.

Fabrication and textural characterization of nanoporous carbon electrodes embedded with CuO nanoparticles for supercapacitors

PubMed Central

Prasad, Kumaresa P S; Dhawale, Dattatray S; Sivakumar, Thiripuranthagan; Aldeyab, Salem S; Zaidi, Javaid S M; Ariga, Katsuhiko; Vinu, Ajayan

2011-01-01

We introduce a novel strategy of fabricating nanoporous carbons loaded with different amounts of CuO nanoparticles via a hard templating approach, using copper-containing mesoporous silica as the template and sucrose as the carbon source. The nature and dispersion of the CuO nanoparticles on the surface of the nanoporous carbons were investigated by x-ray diffraction (XRD), high-resolution scanning electron microscopy (HRSEM) and high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM). XRD results reveal that nanoporous carbons with embedded CuO nanoparticles exhibit a well-ordered mesoporous structure, whereas the nitrogen adsorption measurements indicate the presence of excellent textural characteristics such as high surface area, large pore volume and uniform pore size distribution. The amount of CuO nanoparticles in the nanochannels of the nanoporous carbon could be controlled by simply varying the Si/Cu molar ratio of the mesoporous silica template. Morphological characterization by SEM and TEM reveals that high-quality CuO nanoparticles are distributed homogeneously within the nanoporous carbon framework. The supercapacitance behavior of the CuO-loaded nanoporous carbons was investigated. The material with a small amount of CuO in the mesochannels and high surface area affords a maximum specific capacitance of 300 F g-1 at a 20 mV s-1 scan rate in an aqueous electrolyte solution. A supercapacitor containing the CuO-loaded nanoporous carbon is highly stable and exhibits a long cycle life with 91% specific capacitance retained after 1000 cycles. PMID:27877410

Immunoelectron microscopy in embryos.

PubMed

Sierralta, W D

2001-05-01

Immunogold labeling of proteins in sections of embryos embedded in acrylate media provides an important analytical tool when the resolving power of the electron microscope is required to define sites of protein function. The protocol presented here was established to analyze the role and dynamics of the activated protein kinase C/Rack1 regulatory system in the patterning and outgrowth of limb bud mesenchyme. With minor changes, especially in the composition of the fixative solution, the protocol should be easily adaptable for the postembedding immunogold labeling of any other antigen in tissues of embryos of diverse species. Quantification of the labeling can be achieved by using electron microscope systems capable of supporting digital image analysis. Copyright 2001 Academic Press.

Ultrastructural changes in tracheal epithelial cells exposed to oxygen

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Philpott, D. E.; Harrison, G. A.; Turnbill, C.; Black, S.

1977-01-01

White albino rats were sacrificed after 24, 36, 48, 72, and 96 h of exposure to 100% O2 at 1 atm. Tissue was prepared for the scanning electron microscope (SEM) by Critical Point Drying and for the transmission electron microscope (TEM) by plastic embedding. Scanning microscopy showed a loss of microvilli after 48 h of exposure. Cilia appeared relatively normal with SEM, but TEM revealed changes in the outer membrane. In TEM, nonciliated cells appeared swollen and often encroached on the ciliated cells. A heavy mucous blanket remained even after processing. All the changes observed that are induced by oxygen exposure contribute to mucostasis, reducing and/or halting mucociliary clearance.

Integrating powdered activated carbon into wastewater tertiary filter for micro-pollutant removal.

PubMed

Hu, Jingyi; Aarts, Annelies; Shang, Ran; Heijman, Bas; Rietveld, Luuk

2016-07-15

Integrating powdered activated carbon (PAC) into wastewater tertiary treatment is a promising technology to reduce organic micro-pollutant (OMP) discharge into the receiving waters. To take advantage of the existing tertiary filter, PAC was pre-embedded inside the filter bed acting as a fixed-bed adsorber. The pre-embedding (i.e. immobilization) of PAC was realized by direct dosing a PAC solution on the filter top, which was then promoted to penetrate into the filter media by a down-flow of tap water. In order to examine the effectiveness of this PAC pre-embedded filter towards OMP removal, batch adsorption tests, representing PAC contact reactor (with the same PAC mass-to-treated water volume ratio as in the PAC pre-embedded filter) were performed as references. Moreover, as a conventional dosing option, PAC was dosed continuously with the filter influent (i.e. the wastewater secondary effluent with the investigated OMPs). Comparative results confirmed a higher OMP removal efficiency associated with the PAC pre-embedded filter, as compared to the batch system with a practical PAC residence time. Furthermore, over a filtration period of 10 h (approximating a realistic filtration cycle for tertiary filters), the continuous dosing approach resulted in less OMP removal. Therefore, it was concluded that the pre-embedding approach can be preferentially considered when integrating PAC into the wastewater tertiary treatment for OMP elimination. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

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.

Immunohistochemical myofiber typing and high-resolution myofibrillar lesion detection in LR white embedded muscle

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Thompson, J. L.; Vijayan, K.; Riley, D. A.

2000-01-01

We have developed a method of fixing, embedding, sectioning, and staining that allows high-resolution detection of myofibrillar structure and myosin immunocytochemical muscle fiber typing in serial semithin sections of LR White plastic embedded muscle at the light microscopic level. Traditional approaches, such as cryostat sections, permit fiber typing, but small myofibrillar lesions (1-3 sarcomeres) are difficult to detect because of section thickness. Semithin sections of hydrophobic resins do not stain well either histochemically or immunocytochemically. Electron microscopy can resolve lesions and discriminate fiber types based on morphology, but the sampling area is small. Our goal was to develop a rapid method for defining both fiber type and high-resolution primary myofibrillar lesion damage. Mild fixation (1-4% paraformaldehyde, 0. 05-0.1% glutaraldehyde) and embedment in a hydrophilic resin (LR White) were used. Myofibrillar structure was extremely well preserved at the light microscopic (LM) level, and lesions could be readily resolved in Toluidine blue stained 500-nm sections. Fiber type was defined by LM immunomyosin staining of serial plastic semithin sections, which demonstrated reciprocal staining patterns for "fast (Sigma M4276) and "total" (skeletal muscle) myosins (Sigma M7523). Copyright 2000 Wiley-Liss, Inc.

Optical properties of embedded metal nanoparticles at low temperatures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Heilmann, A.; Kreibig, U.

2000-06-01

Metal nanoparticles (gold, silver, copper) that are embedded in an insulating organic host material exhibit optical plasma resonance absorption in the visible and near-infrared region. The spectral position, the half width and the intensity of the plasma resonance absorption all depend on the particle size, the particle shape, and the optical behavior of the cluster and the host material. The optical extinction of various gold, silver or copper particle assemblies embedded in plasma polymer or gelatin was measured at 4.2 K and 1.2 K as well as at room temperature. The packing density of several samples was high enough to resolve a reversible increase of the plasma resonance absorption intensity towards lower temperatures. Additionally, at larger silver particles D_m > 50 nm a significant blue shift of the plasma resonance absorption was measured. Particle size and shape distribution were determined by transmission electron microscopy (TEM). For the first time, simultaneous measurements of the electrical and optical properties at one and the same particle assembly were performed at low temperatures. Contrary to the increasing optical extinction, the d.c. conductivity decreased to two orders of magnitude. At silver particles embedded in a plasma polymer made from thiophene a significant photocurrent was measured.

Magnetic properties of Ni nanoparticles embedded in silica matrix (KIT-6) synthesized via novel chemical route

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

Dalavi, Shankar B.; Panda, Rabi N., E-mail: rnp@goa.bits-pilani.ac.in; Raja, M. Manivel

2015-06-24

Thermally stable Ni nanoparticles have been embedded in mesoporous silica matrix (KIT-6) via novel chemical reduction method by using superhydride as reducing agent. X-ray diffraction (XRD) study confirms that pure and embedded Ni nanoparticles crystallize in face centered cubic (fcc) structure. Crystallite sizes of pure Ni, 4 wt% and 8 wt% Ni in silica were estimated to be 6.0 nm, 10.4 nm and 10.5 nm, respectively. Morphology and dispersion of Ni in silica matrix were studied by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Magnetic study shows enhancement of magnetic moments of Ni nanoparticles embedded in silica matrix compared with that of pure Ni. The resultmore » has been interpreted on the basis of size reduction and magnetic exchange effects. Saturation magnetization values for pure Ni, 4 wt% and 8 wt% Ni in silica were found to be 15.77 emu/g, 5.08 emu/g and 2.00 emu/g whereas coercivity values were 33.72 Oe, 92.47 Oe and 64.70 Oe, respectively. We anticipate that the observed magnetic properties may find application as soft magnetic materials.« less

MIL-100 derived nitrogen-embodied carbon shells embedded with iron nanoparticles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mao, Chengyu; Kong, Aiguo; Wang, Yuan; Bu, Xianhui; Feng, Pingyun

2015-06-01

The use of metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) as templates and precursors to synthesize new carbon materials with controllable morphology and pre-selected heteroatom doping holds promise for applications as efficient non-precious metal catalysts. Here, we report a facile pyrolysis pathway to convert MIL-100 into nitrogen-doped carbon shells encapsulating Fe nanoparticles in a comparative study involving multiple selected nitrogen sources. The hierarchical porous architecture, embedded Fe nanoparticles, and nitrogen decoration endow this composite with a superior oxygen reduction activity. Furthermore, the excellent durability and high methanol tolerance even outperform the commercial Pt-C catalyst.The use of metal-organic frameworks (MOFs) as templates and precursors to synthesize new carbon materials with controllable morphology and pre-selected heteroatom doping holds promise for applications as efficient non-precious metal catalysts. Here, we report a facile pyrolysis pathway to convert MIL-100 into nitrogen-doped carbon shells encapsulating Fe nanoparticles in a comparative study involving multiple selected nitrogen sources. The hierarchical porous architecture, embedded Fe nanoparticles, and nitrogen decoration endow this composite with a superior oxygen reduction activity. Furthermore, the excellent durability and high methanol tolerance even outperform the commercial Pt-C catalyst. Electronic supplementary information (ESI) available: Material synthesis and elemental analysis, electrochemistry measurements, and additional figures. See DOI: 10.1039/c5nr02346g

Electrochemical synthesis of MoS2 quantum dots embedded nanostructured porous silicon with enhanced electroluminescence property

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shrivastava, Megha; Kumari, Reeta; Parra, Mohammad Ramzan; Pandey, Padmini; Siddiqui, Hafsa; Haque, Fozia Z.

2017-11-01

In this report we present the successful enhancement in electroluminescence (EL) in nanostructured n-type porous silicon (PS) with an idea of embedding luminophorous Molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) quantum dots (QD's). Electrochemical anodization technique was used for the formation of PS surface and MoS2 QD's were prepared using the electrochemical route. Spin coating technique was employed for the proper incorporation of MoS2 QD's within the PS nanostructures. The crystallographic analysis was performed using X-ray diffraction (XRD), Raman and Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy techniques. However, surface morphology was determined using Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and Atomic force microscopy (AFM). The optical measurements were performed on photoluminescence (PL) spectrophotometer; additionally for electroluminescence (EL) study special arrangement of instrumental setup was made at laboratory level which provides novelty to this work. A diode prototype was made comprising Ag/MoS2:PS/Silicon/Ag for EL study. The MoS2:PS shows a remarkable concentration dependent enhancement in PL as well as in EL intensities, which paves a way to better utilize this strategy in optoelectronic device applications.

Facile synthesis of enzyme-embedded magnetic metal-organic frameworks as a reusable mimic multi-enzyme system: mimetic peroxidase properties and colorimetric sensor

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hou, Chen; Wang, Yang; Ding, Qinghua; Jiang, Long; Li, Ming; Zhu, Weiwei; Pan, Duo; Zhu, Hao; Liu, Mingzhu

2015-11-01

This work reports a facile and easily-achieved approach for enzyme immobilization by embedding glucose oxidase (GOx) in magnetic zeolitic imidazolate framework 8 (mZIF-8) via a de novo approach. As a demonstration of the power of such materials, the resulting GOx embedded mZIF-8 (mZIF-8@GOx) was utilized as a colorimetric sensor for rapid detection of glucose. This method was constructed on the basis of metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), which possessed very fascinating peroxidase-like properties, and the cascade reaction for the visual detection of glucose was combined into one step through the mZIF-8@GOx based mimic multi-enzyme system. After characterization by electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, nitrogen sorption, fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and vibrating sample magnetometry, the as-prepared mZIF-8@GOx was confirmed with the robust core-shell structure, the monodisperse nanoparticle had an average diameter of about 200 nm and displayed superparamagnetism with a saturation magnetization value of 40.5 emu g-1, it also exhibited a large surface area of 396.10 m2 g-1. As a peroxidase mimic, mZIF-8 was verified to be highly stable and of low cost, and showed a strong affinity towards H2O2. Meanwhile, the mZIF-8 embedded GOx also exhibited improved activity, stability and greatly enhanced selectivity in glucose detection. Moreover, the mZIF-8@GOx had excellent recyclability with high activity (88.7% residual activity after 12 times reuse).This work reports a facile and easily-achieved approach for enzyme immobilization by embedding glucose oxidase (GOx) in magnetic zeolitic imidazolate framework 8 (mZIF-8) via a de novo approach. As a demonstration of the power of such materials, the resulting GOx embedded mZIF-8 (mZIF-8@GOx) was utilized as a colorimetric sensor for rapid detection of glucose. This method was constructed on the basis of metal-organic frameworks (MOFs), which possessed very fascinating peroxidase-like properties, and the cascade reaction for the visual detection of glucose was combined into one step through the mZIF-8@GOx based mimic multi-enzyme system. After characterization by electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, nitrogen sorption, fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and vibrating sample magnetometry, the as-prepared mZIF-8@GOx was confirmed with the robust core-shell structure, the monodisperse nanoparticle had an average diameter of about 200 nm and displayed superparamagnetism with a saturation magnetization value of 40.5 emu g-1, it also exhibited a large surface area of 396.10 m2 g-1. As a peroxidase mimic, mZIF-8 was verified to be highly stable and of low cost, and showed a strong affinity towards H2O2. Meanwhile, the mZIF-8 embedded GOx also exhibited improved activity, stability and greatly enhanced selectivity in glucose detection. Moreover, the mZIF-8@GOx had excellent recyclability with high activity (88.7% residual activity after 12 times reuse). Electronic supplementary information (ESI) available. See DOI: 10.1039/c5nr04994f

Osteoblast-like cell response to macro- and micro-patterned carbon scaffolds obtained from the sea rush Juncus maritimus.

PubMed

López-Álvarez, M; Pereiro, I; Serra, J; de Carlos, A; González, P

2011-08-01

Carbon scaffolds with a directional patterned surface were obtained by pyrolysis of the sea rush Juncus maritimus. The structure of the scaffolds was investigated using scanning electron microscopy, mercury porosimetry and interferometric profilometry. X-ray diffraction and x-ray fluorescence were the techniques used for their chemical characterization. The alignment and differentiation of pre-osteoblasts (MC3T3-E1 cell line) incubated on the patterned scaffolds were evaluated by scanning electron microscopy, confocal laser scanning microscopy and by the quantification of the phosphatase alkaline activity and the osteocalcin synthesis. It was found that pyrolysis at 500 °C preserved and even enhanced the natural macro- and micro-patterning of the plant. The results obtained for porosity and chemical composition validated these structures as viable scaffolds for tissue engineering applications. Finally, the patterned surface was confirmed to promote the oriented growth of the pre-osteoblasts MC3T3-E1, not only after short periods of incubation (hours) but also after longer ones (several weeks). The quantification of the cell differentiation markers together with the evaluation of the cell layer morphology up to 28 days of incubation confirmed the differentiation of MC3T3-E1 cells to osteoblasts. © 2011 IOP Publishing Ltd

Continuous Changes in Structure Mapped by Manifold Embedding of Single-Particle Data in Cryo-EM

PubMed Central

Fran, Joachim; Ourmazd, Abbas

2016-01-01

Cryo-electron microscopy, when combined with single-particle reconstruction, is a powerful method for studying macromolecular structure. Recent developments in detector technology have pushed the resolution into a range comparable to that of X-ray crystallography. However, cryo-EM is able to separate and thus recover the structure of each of several discrete structures present in the sample. For the more general case involving continuous structural changes, a novel technique employing manifold embedding has been recently demonstrated. Potentially, the entire work-cycle of a molecular machine may be observed as it passes through a continuum of states, and its free-energy landscape may be mapped out. This technique will be outlined and discussed in the context of its application to a large single-particle dataset of yeast ribosomes. PMID:26884261

Domain configurations in dislocations embedded hexagonal manganite systems: From the view of graph theory

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

Cheng, Shaobo; Zhang, Dong; Deng, Shiqing

Topological defects and their interactions often arouse multiple types of emerging phenomena from edge states in Skyrmions to disclination pairs in liquid crystals. In hexagonal manganites, partial edge dislocations, a prototype topological defect, are ubiquitous and they significantly alter the topologically protected domains and their behaviors. In this work, combining electron microscopy experiment and graph theory analysis, we report a systematic study of the connections and configurations of domains in this dislocation embedded system. Rules for domain arrangement are established. The dividing line between domains, which can be attributed by the strain field of dislocations, is accurately described by amore » genus model from a higher dimension in the graph theory. In conclusion, our results open a door for the understanding of domain patterns in topologically protected multiferroic systems.« less

Domain configurations in dislocations embedded hexagonal manganite systems: From the view of graph theory

DOE PAGES

Cheng, Shaobo; Zhang, Dong; Deng, Shiqing; ...

2018-04-19

Topological defects and their interactions often arouse multiple types of emerging phenomena from edge states in Skyrmions to disclination pairs in liquid crystals. In hexagonal manganites, partial edge dislocations, a prototype topological defect, are ubiquitous and they significantly alter the topologically protected domains and their behaviors. In this work, combining electron microscopy experiment and graph theory analysis, we report a systematic study of the connections and configurations of domains in this dislocation embedded system. Rules for domain arrangement are established. The dividing line between domains, which can be attributed by the strain field of dislocations, is accurately described by amore » genus model from a higher dimension in the graph theory. In conclusion, our results open a door for the understanding of domain patterns in topologically protected multiferroic systems.« less

Interference experiment with asymmetric double slit by using 1.2-MV field emission transmission electron microscope.

PubMed

Harada, Ken; Akashi, Tetsuya; Niitsu, Kodai; Shimada, Keiko; Ono, Yoshimasa A; Shindo, Daisuke; Shinada, Hiroyuki; Mori, Shigeo

2018-01-17

Advanced electron microscopy technologies have made it possible to perform precise double-slit interference experiments. We used a 1.2-MV field emission electron microscope providing coherent electron waves and a direct detection camera system enabling single-electron detections at a sub-second exposure time. We developed a method to perform the interference experiment by using an asymmetric double-slit fabricated by a focused ion beam instrument and by operating the microscope under a "pre-Fraunhofer" condition, different from the Fraunhofer condition of conventional double-slit experiments. Here, pre-Fraunhofer condition means that each single-slit observation was performed under the Fraunhofer condition, while the double-slit observations were performed under the Fresnel condition. The interference experiments with each single slit and with the asymmetric double slit were carried out under two different electron dose conditions: high-dose for calculation of electron probability distribution and low-dose for each single electron distribution. Finally, we exemplified the distribution of single electrons by color-coding according to the above three types of experiments as a composite image.

Effect of Low Cu Amounts and Pre-Deformation on the Precipitation in Al-Mg-Si Alloys

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Saito, Takeshi; Muraishi, Shinji; Marioara, Calin D.; Holmestad, Randi

Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) studies were performed on two Al-Mg-Si alloys with low Cu additions (0.01 and 0.10 wt%) in order to investigate the effect of Cu and 10% pre-deformation on precipitate microstructure and its connection to mechanical properties. After 300 minutes aging at 190°C, fine microstructures associated with high hardness were observed in the alloy with 0.10% Cu. Pre-deformation led to heterogeneous distributions of precipitates along dislocations, causing microstructure coarsening. This effect was less pronounced in the alloy with the higher Cu amount.

Ordered arrays of multiferroic epitaxial nanostructures.

PubMed

Vrejoiu, Ionela; Morelli, Alessio; Biggemann, Daniel; Pippel, Eckhard

2011-01-01

Epitaxial heterostructures combining ferroelectric (FE) and ferromagnetic (FiM) oxides are a possible route to explore coupling mechanisms between the two independent order parameters, polarization and magnetization of the component phases. We report on the fabrication and properties of arrays of hybrid epitaxial nanostructures of FiM NiFe(2)O(4) (NFO) and FE PbZr(0.52)Ti(0.48)O(3) or PbZr(0.2)Ti(0.8)O(3), with large range order and lateral dimensions from 200 nm to 1 micron. The structures were fabricated by pulsed-laser deposition. High resolution transmission electron microscopy and high angle annular dark-field scanning transmission electron microscopy were employed to investigate the microstructure and the epitaxial growth of the structures. Room temperature ferroelectric and ferrimagnetic domains of the heterostructures were imaged by piezoresponse force microscopy (PFM) and magnetic force microscopy (MFM), respectively. PFM and MFM investigations proved that the hybrid epitaxial nanostructures show ferroelectric and magnetic order at room temperature. Dielectric effects occurring after repeated switching of the polarization in large planar capacitors, comprising ferrimagnetic NiFe2O4 dots embedded in ferroelectric PbZr0.52Ti0.48O3 matrix, were studied. These hybrid multiferroic structures with clean and well defined epitaxial interfaces hold promise for reliable investigations of magnetoelectric coupling between the ferrimagnetic / magnetostrictive and ferroelectric / piezoelectric phases.

Microstructures and microhardness evolutions of melt-spun Al-8Ni-5Nd-4Si alloy

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

Karakoese, Ercan, E-mail: ekarakose@karatekin.edu.tr; Keskin, Mustafa

2012-03-15

Al-Ni-Nd-Si alloy with nominal composition of Al-8 wt.%Ni-5 wt.%Nd-4 wt.%Si was rapidly solidified by using melt-spinning technique to examine the influence of the cooling rate/conditions on microstructure and mechanical properties. The resulting conventional cast (ingot) and melt-spun ribbons were characterized by X-ray diffraction, optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy together with energy dispersive spectroscopy, differential scanning calorimetry, differential thermal analysis and Vickers microhardness tester. The ingot alloys consists of four phases namely {alpha}-Al, intermetallic Al{sub 3}Ni, Al{sub 11}Nd{sub 3} and fcc Si. Melt-spun ribbons are completely composed of {alpha}-Al phase. The optical microscopy and scanning electron microscopy results show that themore » microstructures of rapidly solidified ribbons are clearly different from their ingot alloy. The change in microhardness is discussed based on the microstructural observations. - Highlights: Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Rapid solidification allows a reduction in grain size, extended solid solution ranges. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer We observed the matrix lattice parameter increases with increasing wheel speed. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer Melt-spun ribbons consist of partly amorphous phases embedded in crystalline phases. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer The solidification rate is high enough to retain most of alloying elements in the Al matrix. Black-Right-Pointing-Pointer The rapid solidification has effect on the phase constitution.« less

Controlled microaspiration for high-pressure freezing: a new method for ultrastructural preservation of fragile and sparse tissues for TEM and electron tomography

PubMed Central

Triffo, W. J.; Palsdottir, H.; McDonald, K. L.; Lee, J. K.; Inman, J. L.; Bissell, M. J.; Raphael, R. M.; Auer, M.

2009-01-01

Summary High-pressure freezing is the preferred method to prepare thick biological specimens for ultrastructural studies. However, the advantages obtained by this method often prove unattainable for samples that are difficult to handle during the freezing and substitution protocols. Delicate and sparse samples are difficult to manipulate and maintain intact throughout the sequence of freezing, infiltration, embedding and final orientation for sectioning and subsequent transmission electron microscopy. An established approach to surmount these difficulties is the use of cellulose microdialysis tubing to transport the sample. With an inner diameter of 200 µm, the tubing protects small and fragile samples within the thickness constraints of high-pressure freezing, and the tube ends can be sealed to avoid loss of sample. Importantly, the transparency of the tubing allows optical study of the specimen at different steps in the process. Here, we describe the use of a micromanipulator and microinjection apparatus to handle and position delicate specimens within the tubing. We report two biologically significant examples that benefit from this approach, 3D cultures of mammary epithelial cells and cochlear outer hair cells. We illustrate the potential for correlative light and electron microscopy as well as electron tomography. PMID:18445158

Improvement of carbon nanotube field emission properties by ultrasonic nanowelding

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhao, Bo; Yadian, Boluo; Chen, Da; Xu, Dong; Zhang, Yafei

2008-12-01

Ultrasonic nanowelding was used to improve the field emission properties of carbon nanotube (CNT) cathodes. The CNTs were deposited on the Ti-coated glass substrate by electrophoretic deposition. By pressing CNTs against metal (Ti) substrate under a vibrating force at ultrasonic frequency, a reliable and low resistance contact was obtained between CNTs and Ti. The scanning electron microscopy results show that CNTs are embedded into the metal substrate and act as stable field emitters. The welded cathode demonstrates an excellent field emission with high emission current density and good current stability.

X-Ray Photoelectron Spectroscopy of Stabilized Zirconia Films with Embedded Au Nanoparticles Formed under Irradiation with Gold Ions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zubkov, S. Yu.; Antonov, I. N.; Gorshkov, O. N.; Kasatkin, A. P.; Kryukov, R. N.; Nikolichev, D. E.; Pavlov, D. A.; Shenina, M. E.

2018-03-01

Nanosized films of stabilized zirconia with Au nanoparticles formed by implanting Au ions are studied by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and transmission electron microscopy. The effect of irradiation of films with Au ions and postimplantation annealing on the distribution of chemical elements and zirconium- containing ZrO x compounds over the depth of the films is studied. Based on the data on the dimensional shift of the Au 4 f photoelectron line, the average value of the nanoparticle size is determined.

The thermal stability of the carbon-palladium films for hydrogen sensor applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rymarczyk, Joanna; Czerwosz, ElŻbieta; Diduszko, Ryszard; Kozłowski, Mirosław

2017-08-01

The thermal stability of two types of C-Pd films prepared in PVD process were studied. These films are composed of Pd nanograins embedded in a multiphase carbonaceous matrix. These films were distinguished by Pd content. These films were annealed in a range of temperatures 50÷1000°C. The structural, topographical and molecular changes were studied by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and X-ray diffraction (XRD) methods. The results show that investigated films are thermally stable up to 200°C.

Cubic GaN quantum dots embedded in zinc-blende AlN microdisks

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bürger, M.; Kemper, R. M.; Bader, C. A.; Ruth, M.; Declair, S.; Meier, C.; Förstner, J.; As, D. J.

2013-09-01

Microresonators containing quantum dots find application in devices like single photon emitters for quantum information technology as well as low threshold laser devices. We demonstrate the fabrication of 60 nm thin zinc-blende AlN microdisks including cubic GaN quantum dots using dry chemical etching techniques. Scanning electron microscopy analysis reveals the morphology with smooth surfaces of the microdisks. Micro-photoluminescence measurements exhibit optically active quantum dots. Furthermore this is the first report of resonator modes in the emission spectrum of a cubic AlN microdisk.

A novel nonenzymatic amperometric hydrogen peroxide sensor based on CuO@Cu2O nanowires embedded into poly(vinyl alcohol).

PubMed

Chirizzi, Daniela; Guascito, Maria Rachele; Filippo, Emanuela; Tepore, Antonio

2016-01-15

A new, very simple, rapid and inexpensive nonenzymatic amperometric sensor for hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) detection is proposed. It is based on the immobilization of cupric/cuprous oxide core shell nanowires (CuO@Cu2O-NWs) in a poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) matrix directly drop casted on a glassy carbon electrode surface to make a CuO@Cu2O core shell like NWs PVA embedded (CuO@Cu2O-NWs/PVA) sensor. CuO nanowires with mean diameters of 120-170nm and length in the range 2-5μm were grown by a simple catalyst-free thermal oxidation process based on resistive heating of pure copper wires at ambient conditions. The oxidation process of the copper wire surface led to the formation of a three layered structure: a thick Cu2O bottom layer, a CuO thin intermediate layer and CuO nanowires. CuO nanowires were carefully scratched from Cu2O layer with a sharp knife, dispersed into ethanol and sonicated. Then, the NWs were embedded in PVA matrix. The morphological and spectroscopic characterization of synthesized CuO-NWs and CuO@Cu2O-NWs/PVA were performed by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), selected area diffraction pattern (SAD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) analysis. Moreover a complete electrochemical characterization of these new CuO@Cu2O-NWs/PVA modified glassy carbon electrodes was performed by Cyclic Voltammetry (CV) and Cronoamperometry (CA) in phosphate buffer (pH=7; I=0.2) to investigate the sensing properties of this material against H2O2. The electrochemical performances of proposed sensors as high sensitivity, fast response, reproducibility and selectivity make them suitable for the quantitative determination of hydrogen peroxide substrate in batch analysis. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Multimodal Hierarchical Imaging of Serial Sections for Finding Specific Cellular Targets within Large Volumes

PubMed Central

Wacker, Irene U.; Veith, Lisa; Spomer, Waldemar; Hofmann, Andreas; Thaler, Marlene; Hillmer, Stefan; Gengenbach, Ulrich; Schröder, Rasmus R.

2018-01-01

Targeting specific cells at ultrastructural resolution within a mixed cell population or a tissue can be achieved by hierarchical imaging using a combination of light and electron microscopy. Samples embedded in resin are sectioned into arrays consisting of ribbons of hundreds of ultrathin sections and deposited on pieces of silicon wafer or conductively coated coverslips. Arrays are imaged at low resolution using a digital consumer like smartphone camera or light microscope (LM) for a rapid large area overview, or a wide field fluorescence microscope (fluorescence light microscopy (FLM)) after labeling with fluorophores. After post-staining with heavy metals, arrays are imaged in a scanning electron microscope (SEM). Selection of targets is possible from 3D reconstructions generated by FLM or from 3D reconstructions made from the SEM image stacks at intermediate resolution if no fluorescent markers are available. For ultrastructural analysis, selected targets are finally recorded in the SEM at high-resolution (a few nanometer image pixels). A ribbon-handling tool that can be retrofitted to any ultramicrotome is demonstrated. It helps with array production and substrate removal from the sectioning knife boat. A software platform that allows automated imaging of arrays in the SEM is discussed. Compared to other methods generating large volume EM data, such as serial block-face SEM (SBF-SEM) or focused ion beam SEM (FIB-SEM), this approach has two major advantages: (1) The resin-embedded sample is conserved, albeit in a sliced-up version. It can be stained in different ways and imaged with different resolutions. (2) As the sections can be post-stained, it is not necessary to use samples strongly block-stained with heavy metals to introduce contrast for SEM imaging or render the tissue blocks conductive. This makes the method applicable to a wide variety of materials and biological questions. Particularly prefixed materials e.g., from biopsy banks and pathology labs, can directly be embedded and reconstructed in 3D. PMID:29630046

New inhalation-optimized itraconazole nanoparticle-based dry powders for the treatment of invasive pulmonary aspergillosis

PubMed Central

Duret, Christophe; Wauthoz, Nathalie; Sebti, Thami; Vanderbist, Francis; Amighi, Karim

2012-01-01

Purpose Itraconazole (ITZ) dry powders for inhalation (DPI) composed of nanoparticles (NP) embedded in carrier microparticles were prepared and characterized. Methods DPIs were initially produced by reducing the ITZ particle size to the nanometer range using high-pressure homogenization with tocopherol polyethylene 1000 succinate (TPGS, 10% w/w ITZ) as a stabilizer. The optimized nanosuspension and the initial microsuspension were then spray-dried with different proportions of or in the absence of mannitol and/or sodium taurocholate. DPI characterization was performed using scanning electron microscopy for morphology, laser diffraction to evaluate the size-reduction process, and the size of the dried NP when reconstituted in aqueous media, impaction studies using a multistage liquid impactor to determine the aerodynamic performance and fine-particle fraction that is theoretically able to reach the lung, and dissolution studies to determine the solubility of ITZ. Results Scanning electron microscopy micrographs showed that the DPI particles were composed of mannitol microparticles with embedded nano- or micro-ITZ crystals. The formulations prepared from the nanosuspension exhibited good flow properties and better fine-particle fractions, ranging from 46.2% ± 0.5% to 63.2% ± 1.7% compared to the 23.1% ± 0.3% that was observed with the formulation produced from the initial microsuspension. Spray-drying affected the NP size by inducing irreversible aggregation, which was able to be minimized by the addition of mannitol and sodium taurocholate before the drying procedure. The ITZ NP-based DPI considerably increased the ITZ solubility (58 ± 2 increased to 96 ± 1 ng/mL) compared with that of raw ITZ or an ITZ microparticle-based DPI (<10 ng/mL). Conclusion Embedding ITZ NP in inhalable microparticles is a very effective method to produce DPI formulations with optimal aerodynamic properties and enhanced ITZ solubility. These formulations could be applied to other poorly water-soluble drugs and could be a very effective alternative for treating invasive pulmonary aspergillosis. PMID:23093903

On the solid phase crystallization of In{sub 2}O{sub 3}:H transparent conductive oxide films prepared by atomic layer deposition

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

Macco, Bart; Verheijen, Marcel A.; Black, Lachlan E.

2016-08-28

Hydrogen-doped indium oxide (In{sub 2}O{sub 3}:H) has emerged as a highly transparent and conductive oxide, finding its application in a multitude of optoelectronic devices. Recently, we have reported on an atomic layer deposition (ALD) process to prepare high quality In{sub 2}O{sub 3}:H. This process consists of ALD of In{sub 2}O{sub 3}:H films at 100 °C, followed by a solid phase crystallization step at 150–200 °C. In this work, we report on a detailed electron microscopy study of this crystallization process which reveals new insights into the crucial aspects for achieving the large grain size and associated excellent properties of the material. Themore » key finding is that the best optoelectronic properties are obtained by preparing the films at the lowest possible temperature prior to post-deposition annealing. Electron microscopy imaging shows that such films are mostly amorphous, but feature a very low density of embedded crystallites. Upon post-deposition annealing, crystallization proceeds merely from isotropic crystal grain growth of these embedded crystallites rather than by the formation of additional crystallites. The relatively high hydrogen content of 4.2 at. % in these films is thought to cause the absence of additional nucleation, thereby rendering the final grain size and optoelectronic properties solely dependent on the density of embedded crystallites. The temperature-dependent grain growth rate has been determined, from which an activation energy of (1.39 ± 0.04) eV has been extracted. Finally, on the basis of the observed crystallization mechanism, a simple model to fully describe the crystallization process has been developed. This model has been validated with a numerical implementation thereof, which accurately predicts the observed temperature-dependent crystallization behaviour.« less

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.

Zernike Phase Contrast Electron Cryo-Tomography Applied to Marine Cyanobacteria Infected with Cyanophages

PubMed Central

Dai, Wei; Fu, Caroline; Khant, Htet A.; Ludtke, Steven J.; Schmid, Michael F.; Chiu, Wah

2015-01-01

Advances in electron cryo-tomography have provided a new opportunity to visualize the internal 3D structures of a bacterium. An electron microscope equipped with Zernike phase contrast optics produces images with dramatically increased contrast compared to images obtained by conventional electron microscopy. Here we describe a protocol to apply Zernike phase plate technology for acquiring electron tomographic tilt series of cyanophage-infected cyanobacterial cells embedded in ice, without staining or chemical fixation. We detail the procedures for aligning and assessing phase plates for data collection, and methods to obtain 3D structures of cyanophage assembly intermediates in the host, by subtomogram alignment, classification and averaging. Acquiring three to four tomographic tilt series takes approximately 12 h on a JEM2200FS electron microscope. We expect this time requirement to decrease substantially as the technique matures. Time required for annotation and subtomogram averaging varies widely depending on the project goals and data volume. PMID:25321408

Synthesis and characterization of metal-dielectric composites with copper nanoparticles embedded in a glass matrix: A multitechnique approach

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lipinska-Kalita, Kristina E.; Krol, Denise M.; Hemley, Russell J.; Mariotto, Gino; Kalita, Patricia E.; Ohki, Yoshimichi

2005-09-01

The precipitation and growth of copper nanoparticles in an optically transparent aluminosilicate glass matrix was investigated. The size of particles in this heterophase glass-based composite was modified in a controlled manner by isothermal heat treatments. A multitechnique approach, consisting of Raman scattering spectroscopy, high-resolution transmission electron microscopy, x-ray diffraction technique, and optical absorption spectroscopy, has been used to study the nucleation and crystallization processes. Optical absorption spectroscopy revealed the presence of intense absorption bands attributed to oscillations of free electrons, known as the surface-plasmon resonance band of copper particles, and confirmed a gradual increase of the particles' mean size and density with annealing time. The Raman scattering on acoustical phonons from Cu quantum dots in the glass matrix measured for off-resonance conditions demonstrated the presence of intense, inhomogeneously broadened peaks that have been assigned to the confined acoustic eigenmodes of copper nanoparticles. The particle-size dependence of the acoustic peak energies and the relation between the size distribution and bandwidths of these peaks were derived. High-resolution transmission electron microscopy was used to monitor the nucleation of the nanoparticles and to estimate their mean size.

Synthesis of BiVO4-GO-PVDF nanocomposite: An excellent, newly designed material for high photocatalytic activity towards organic dye degradation by tuning band gap energies

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Biswas, Md Rokon Ud Dowla; Oh, Won-Chun

2018-06-01

BiVO4-GO-PVDF (PVDF = Polyvinylidene Difluoride) photocatalyst is successfully synthesized by ultrasonication method and characterized by X-ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and transmission electron microscopy techniques. Morphology of BiVO4-GO-PVDF looks like a human embryo embedded inside an amniotic sac. Photocatalytic performance of BiVO4-GO-PVDF for decolorization of methylene blue is investigated. BiVO4-GO-PVDF system reveals enhanced photocatalytic activity degradation of methylene blue (MB), Rhodamine B (RhB) & Safranin-O (SO) in water under visible light irradiation as compared to the pure BiVO4 catalyst, BiVO4 & PTFE decorated on the graphene sheet. The experimental result reveals that the covering of graphene sheets in this composite catalyst enhances photocatalytic performance under visible light. This enhanced activity is mainly attributed to effective quenching of the photogenerated electron-hole pairs confirmed by photoluminescence spectra. Trapping experiments of radicals and holes were conducted to detect reactive species generated in the photocatalytic system, experimental results revealed that direct hole oxidation reaction is obviously dominant during photocatalytic reactions on the BiVO4-GO-PVDF system.

Hepatic Subcellular Compartmentation of Cytoplasmic Phosphoenolpyruvate Carboxykinase Determined by Immunogold Electron Microscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gao, Kuixiong; Cardell, Emma Lou; Morris, Randal E.; Giffin, Bruce F.; Cardell, Robert R.

1995-08-01

Phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase (PEPCK) is the rate-limiting gluconeogenic enzyme and in liver occurs in a lobular gradient from periportal to pericentral regions. The subcellular distribution of cytoplasmic PEPCK molecules within hepatocytes and its relationship to organelles have not been determined previously. In this study, we have used immunogold electron microscopy to evaluate the subcellar distribution of the enzyme, in addition to brightfield and epipolarized light microscopy. Cryosections (10 [mu]m) of perfusion-fixed rat liver were collected on silanated slides and immunostained using goat anti-rat PEPCK followed by 5-nm gold-labeled secondary and tertiary antibodies. Additionally, free-floating vibratome sections (25, 50, and 100 [mu]m) of perfusion-immersion-fixed rat liver were immunogold stained using goat anti-rat PEPCK and 5-nm gold-labeled secondary antibody, with and without silver enhancement. The immunogold labeled sections from both procedures were embedded in epoxy resin for the preparation of thin sections for electron microscopy. The results showed that the gold-labeled antibodies penetrated the entire thickness of cryosections, resulting in a high signal for PEPCK, but membranes in general, the smooth endoplasmic reticulum in particular, were not identifiable as electron dense unit membranes. On the other hand, the vibratome sections of well-fixed tissue allowed good visualization of the ultrastructure of cellular organelles, with the smooth endoplasmic reticulum appearing as vesicles and tubules with electron dense unit membranes; however, the penetration of the gold-labeled antibody was limited to cells at the surface of the vibratome sections. In both procedures, PEPCK, as indicated by gold particles, is predominantly in the glycogen areas of the cytosome and not in mitochondria, nuclei, Golgi apparatus, or other cell organelles. Hepatocytes in periportal regions have a compact subcellular distribution of PEPCK shown by gold particles; hepatocytes in pericentral regions have a diffuse subcellular distribution of PEPCK and thus more scattered gold particles. When normal serum replaced the first antibody in the immunogold staining procedures, the background was very low.

Simulating Lattice Image of Suspended Graphene Taken by Helium Ion Microscopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Miyamoto, Yoshiyuki; Zhang, Hong; Rubio, Angel

2013-03-01

Atomic scale image in nano-scale helps us to characterize property of graphene, and performance of high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) is significant, so far. While a tool without pre-treatment of samples is demanded in practice. Helium ion microscopy (HIM), firstly reported by Word et. al. in 2006, was applied for monitoring graphene in device structure (Lumme, et. al., 2009). Motivated by recent HIM explorations, we examined the possibility of taking lattice image of suspended graphene by HIM. The intensity of secondary emitted electron is recorded as a profile of scanned He+-beam in HIM measurement. We mimicked this situation by performing electron-ion dynamics based on the first-principles simulation within the time-dependent density functional theory. He+ ion collision on single graphene sheet at several impact points were simulated and we found that the amount of secondary emitted electron from graphene reflected the valence charge distribution of the graphene sheet. Therefore HIM using atomically thin He-beam should be able to provide the lattice image, and we propose that an experiment generating ultra-thin He+ ion beam (Rezeq et. al., 2006) should be combined with HIM technique. All calculations were performed by using the Earth Simulator.

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

Kogawa, M.; Watson, E. B.; Ewing, R. C.

Lead-doped zircon crystals, which were synthesized under three different conditions (Watson et al. 1997): dry at 1430 °C at atmospheric pressure without P2O5; wet at 900 °C at 1.5 GPa in the presence of P2O5; and wet at 800 °C at 1.0 GPa without P2O5, have been investigated to understand the mechanisms of Pb incorporation into zircon at the sub-micrometer scale, using various electron microscopy techniques including high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) and high-angle annular dark-field scanning transmission electron microscopy (HAADF-STEM). Four different mechanisms in which Pb may be incorporated into zircon have been identified. In the P-free synthesis, Pb-oxidemore » hydrate particles, 50–200 nm in size, are embedded in zircon. Each Pb-particle is associated with a single vesicle, ~50 nm. Lead in the zircon structure is possibly incorporated under the detection limit value of energy-dispersive X-ray analysis (EDX) by means of: (1) Zr4+ = Pb2+ + 2H+ at less than ~0.1 wt%. In the system with P, Pb-phases occur in three different forms: Pb-rich domains concentrated along cleavage planes or grain boundaries without any evident crystal form; numerous Pb-phosphate particles, as large as 100 nm, embedded heterogeneously in the zircon crystal; and homogeneous distribution of Pb in the zircon structure at less than ~1 wt% as determined by EDX. These results suggest that charge balance is maintained by the xenotime-type coupled substitution: (2) Zr4+ + 2Si4+ = Pb2+ + 2P5+ with a possible minor contribution from mechanism 1. The apparent solubility limit of Pb, <1 wt%, is constrained mainly by the xenotime-type coupled substitution mechanism, which is probably due to increasing strain at higher Pb-concentrations. The presence of Pb2+ in natural zircon is consistent with the low-level Pb allowed by substitution mechanism 2, with only a minor contribution from substitution mechanism 1, the latter of which causes distortion in the local structure.« less

Nanoscale imaging of clinical specimens using pathology-optimized expansion microscopy

PubMed Central

Zhao, Yongxin; Bucur, Octavian; Irshad, Humayun; Chen, Fei; Weins, Astrid; Stancu, Andreea L.; Oh, Eun-Young; DiStasio, Marcello; Torous, Vanda; Glass, Benjamin; Stillman, Isaac E.; Schnitt, Stuart J.; Beck, Andrew H.; Boyden, Edward S.

2017-01-01

Expansion microscopy (ExM), a method for improving the resolution of light microscopy by physically expanding the specimen, has not been applied to clinical tissue samples. Here we report a clinically optimized form of ExM that supports nanoscale imaging of human tissue specimens that have been fixed with formalin, embedded in paraffin, stained with hematoxylin and eosin (H&E), and/or fresh frozen. The method, which we call expansion pathology (ExPath), converts clinical samples into an ExM-compatible state, then applies an ExM protocol with protein anchoring and mechanical homogenization steps optimized for clinical samples. ExPath enables ~70 nm resolution imaging of diverse biomolecules in intact tissues using conventional diffraction-limited microscopes, and standard antibody and fluorescent DNA in situ hybridization reagents. We use ExPath for optical diagnosis of kidney minimal-change disease, which previously required electron microscopy (EM), and demonstrate high-fidelity computational discrimination between early breast neoplastic lesions that to date have challenged human judgment. ExPath may enable the routine use of nanoscale imaging in pathology and clinical research. PMID:28714966

Nanoscale imaging of clinical specimens using pathology-optimized expansion microscopy.

PubMed

Zhao, Yongxin; Bucur, Octavian; Irshad, Humayun; Chen, Fei; Weins, Astrid; Stancu, Andreea L; Oh, Eun-Young; DiStasio, Marcello; Torous, Vanda; Glass, Benjamin; Stillman, Isaac E; Schnitt, Stuart J; Beck, Andrew H; Boyden, Edward S

2017-08-01

Expansion microscopy (ExM), a method for improving the resolution of light microscopy by physically expanding a specimen, has not been applied to clinical tissue samples. Here we report a clinically optimized form of ExM that supports nanoscale imaging of human tissue specimens that have been fixed with formalin, embedded in paraffin, stained with hematoxylin and eosin, and/or fresh frozen. The method, which we call expansion pathology (ExPath), converts clinical samples into an ExM-compatible state, then applies an ExM protocol with protein anchoring and mechanical homogenization steps optimized for clinical samples. ExPath enables ∼70-nm-resolution imaging of diverse biomolecules in intact tissues using conventional diffraction-limited microscopes and standard antibody and fluorescent DNA in situ hybridization reagents. We use ExPath for optical diagnosis of kidney minimal-change disease, a process that previously required electron microscopy, and we demonstrate high-fidelity computational discrimination between early breast neoplastic lesions for which pathologists often disagree in classification. ExPath may enable the routine use of nanoscale imaging in pathology and clinical research.

Correlating Fluorescence and High-Resolution Scanning Electron Microscopy (HRSEM) for the study of GABAA receptor clustering induced by inhibitory synaptic plasticity.

PubMed

Orlando, Marta; Ravasenga, Tiziana; Petrini, Enrica Maria; Falqui, Andrea; Marotta, Roberto; Barberis, Andrea

2017-10-23

Both excitatory and inhibitory synaptic contacts display activity dependent dynamic changes in their efficacy that are globally termed synaptic plasticity. Although the molecular mechanisms underlying glutamatergic synaptic plasticity have been extensively investigated and described, those responsible for inhibitory synaptic plasticity are only beginning to be unveiled. In this framework, the ultrastructural changes of the inhibitory synapses during plasticity have been poorly investigated. Here we combined confocal fluorescence microscopy (CFM) with high resolution scanning electron microscopy (HRSEM) to characterize the fine structural rearrangements of post-synaptic GABA A Receptors (GABA A Rs) at the nanometric scale during the induction of inhibitory long-term potentiation (iLTP). Additional electron tomography (ET) experiments on immunolabelled hippocampal neurons allowed the visualization of synaptic contacts and confirmed the reorganization of post-synaptic GABA A R clusters in response to chemical iLTP inducing protocol. Altogether, these approaches revealed that, following the induction of inhibitory synaptic potentiation, GABA A R clusters increase in size and number at the post-synaptic membrane with no other major structural changes of the pre- and post-synaptic elements.

Effects of rigor status during high-pressure processing on the physical qualities of farm-raised abalone (Haliotis rufescens).

PubMed

Hughes, Brianna H; Greenberg, Neil J; Yang, Tom C; Skonberg, Denise I

2015-01-01

High-pressure processing (HPP) is used to increase meat safety and shelf-life, with conflicting quality effects depending on rigor status during HPP. In the seafood industry, HPP is used to shuck and pasteurize oysters, but its use on abalones has only been minimally evaluated and the effect of rigor status during HPP on abalone quality has not been reported. Farm-raised abalones (Haliotis rufescens) were divided into 12 HPP treatments and 1 unprocessed control treatment. Treatments were processed pre-rigor or post-rigor at 2 pressures (100 and 300 MPa) and 3 processing times (1, 3, and 5 min). The control was analyzed post-rigor. Uniform plugs were cut from adductor and foot meat for texture profile analysis, shear force, and color analysis. Subsamples were used for scanning electron microscopy of muscle ultrastructure. Texture profile analysis revealed that post-rigor processed abalone was significantly (P < 0.05) less firm and chewy than pre-rigor processed irrespective of muscle type, processing time, or pressure. L values increased with pressure to 68.9 at 300 MPa for pre-rigor processed foot, 73.8 for post-rigor processed foot, 90.9 for pre-rigor processed adductor, and 89.0 for post-rigor processed adductor. Scanning electron microscopy images showed fraying of collagen fibers in processed adductor, but did not show pressure-induced compaction of the foot myofibrils. Post-rigor processed abalone meat was more tender than pre-rigor processed meat, and post-rigor processed foot meat was lighter in color than pre-rigor processed foot meat, suggesting that waiting for rigor to resolve prior to processing abalones may improve consumer perceptions of quality and market value. © 2014 Institute of Food Technologists®

Reinforcing Natural Rubber with Cellulose Nanofibrils Extracted from Bleached Eucalyptus Kraft Pulp

Treesearch

Chunmei Zhang; Tianliang Zhai; Ronald Sabo; Craig Clemons; Yi Dan; Lih-Sheng Turng

2014-01-01

Reinforced natural rubber (NR) nanocomposites were prepared by solution mixing, casting, and evaporation of pre-vulcanized natural rubber latex and an aqueous suspension of cellulose nanofibrils (CNFs) extracted from bleached eucalyptus kraft pulp. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images showed that there were no micro-scaled aggregates observed in the nanocomposites...

Transmission Electron Microscopy of an In Situ Presolar Silicon Carbide Grain

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Stroud, Rhonda M.; OGrady, Megan; Nittler, Larry R.; Alexander, Conel M. OD.

2002-01-01

We used a focused ion beam workstation to prepare ultra-thin sections of a presolar SiC grain. Our TEM studies indicate that the SiC formed by rapid vapor-phase condensation, trapping pre-existing graphite grains in random orientations. Additional information is contained in the original extended abstract.

Nanoscale Phase-Separated Structure in Core-Shell Nanoparticles of SiO2-Si1-xGexO2 Glass Revealed by Electron Microscopy.

PubMed

Kubo, Yugo; Yonezawa, Kazuhiro

2017-09-05

SiO 2 -based optical fibers are indispensable components of modern information communication technologies. It has recently become increasingly important to establish a technique for visualizing the nanoscale phase-separated structure inside SiO 2 -GeO 2 glass nanoparticles during the manufacturing of SiO 2 -GeO 2 fibers. This is because the rapidly increasing price of Ge has made it necessary to improve the Ge yield by clarifying the detailed mechanism of Ge diffusion into SiO 2 . However, direct observation of the internal nanostructure of glass particles has been extremely difficult, mainly due to electrostatic charging and the damage induced by electron and X-ray irradiation. In the present study, we used state-of-the-art scanning electron microscopy (SEM), scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM), and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX) to examine cross-sectional samples of SiO 2 -GeO 2 particles embedded in an epoxy resin, which were fabricated using a broad Ar ion beam and a focused Ga ion beam. These advanced techniques enabled us to observe the internal phase-separated structure of the nanoparticles. We have for the first time clearly determined the SiO 2 -Si 1-x Ge x O 2 core-shell structure of such particles, the element distribution, the degree of crystallinity, and the quantitative chemical composition of microscopic regions, and we discuss the formation mechanism for the observed structure. The proposed imaging protocol is highly promising for studying the internal structure of various core-shell nanoparticles, which affects their catalytic, optical, and electronic properties.

Pseudomonas aeruginosa biofilm formation and UV/irradiation exposure change surface and chemical structures of Pre-Production Resin Pellets

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Stam, C. N.; Neal, A.; Park, S.; Mielke, R.; Tsapin, A. I.; Bhartia, R.; Salas, E.; Hug, W.; Behar, A. E.; Nadeau, J. L.

2011-12-01

Microbial interactions with synthetic polymers in open ocean is poorly understood. Plastics are a major and persistent contaminant of ocean waters. Many of these plastics are contaminated with toxic and synthetic chemicals that persist in the environment with minimal degradation. The purpose of this study is to look at the effects that microbial biofilm communities have on both surface and chemical structures of pre-production resin pellets (PRPs). Pseudomonas aeruignosa was grown with PRPs under multiple growth and nutrient conditions. These conditions were combined with varying lengths of UV exposures common to ocean environments. Material degradation of the PRPs and the changing surface and chemical structures of these synthetic polymers was evaluated using a combination of Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, environmental scanning electron microscopy, scanning transmission electron microscopy, X-ray microtomography, and ArcGIS mapping. This study correlates with previous studies conducted on environmental PRP's , collected on the 2009 Project Kaisei expedition in the Subtropical Convergence Zone of the North Pacific Gyre. Further studies are needed to develop a full understanding of degradation rates of synthetic polymers in oceanic environments.

Virus spread and initial pathological changes in the nervous system in genital herpes simplex virus type 2 infection in mice. A correlative immunohistochemical, light and electron microscopic study.

PubMed

Georgsson, G; Martin, J R; Stoner, G L; Webster, H F

1987-01-01

Mice were infected by the vaginal route with the MS strain of herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2). Serial vaginal cultures were used to confirm infection and to select mice for this study. Two mice were killed by perfusion on days 2-6 post infection (p.i.) and lumbar and sacral cord with cauda were fixed and embedded for electron microscopy. Semithin Epon-sections were stained for viral antigen using a rabbit anti-HSV-2 antiserum and the Avidin-Biotin (ABC) method. Thin sections from antigen-positive blocks were examined by electron microscopy, and the number and types of infected cells detected by these two methods were compared. A good correlation was found between detection of infected cells by these methods. Infected cells included neurons of dorsal root ganglia and spinal cord, satellite cells of dorsal root ganglia, non-myelinating Schwann cells, astrocytes, oligodendrocytes and arachnoidal cells. Infected cells were first detected in the cauda on day 3 p.i. and in the spinal cord on day 5 p.i. The temporal and spatial distribution of infected cells was consistent with neural spread to and within the CNS. The pathological lesions showed a good correlation with the distribution and number of infected cells and are probably due to a direct virus effect. The similar sensitivity of the Epon-ABC method to electron microscopy in detecting infected cells indicates that this method may have useful applications in both experimental and diagnostic work.

Emission Characteristics of InGaN/GaN Core-Shell Nanorods Embedded in a 3D Light-Emitting Diode.

PubMed

Jung, Byung Oh; Bae, Si-Young; Lee, Seunga; Kim, Sang Yun; Lee, Jeong Yong; Honda, Yoshio; Amano, Hiroshi

2016-12-01

We report the selective-area growth of a gallium nitride (GaN)-nanorod-based InGaN/GaN multiple-quantum-well (MQW) core-shell structure embedded in a three-dimensional (3D) light-emitting diode (LED) grown by metalorganic chemical vapor deposition (MOCVD) and its optical analysis. High-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HR-TEM) observation revealed the high quality of the GaN nanorods and the position dependence of the structural properties of the InGaN/GaN MQWs on multiple facets. The excitation and temperature dependences of photoluminescence (PL) revealed the m-plane emission behaviors of the InGaN/GaN core-shell nanorods. The electroluminescence (EL) of the InGaN/GaN core-shell-nanorod-embedded 3D LED changed color from green to blue with increasing injection current. This phenomenon was mainly due to the energy gradient and deep localization of the indium in the selectively grown InGaN/GaN core-shell MQWs on the 3D architecture.

PdCo alloy nanoparticle-embedded carbon nanofiber for ultrasensitive nonenzymatic detection of hydrogen peroxide and nitrite.

PubMed

Liu, Dong; Guo, Qiaohui; Zhang, Xueping; Hou, Haoqing; You, Tianyan

2015-07-15

PdCo alloy nanoparticle-embedded carbon nanofiber (PdCo/CNF) prepared by electrospinning and thermal treatment was employed as a high-performance platform for the determination of hydrogen peroxide and nitrite. The as-obtained PdCo/CNF were characterized by transmission electron microscopy, energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, cyclic voltammetry and differential pulse voltammetry were employed to investigate the electrochemical behaviors of the resultant biosensor. The proposed PdCo/CNF-based biosensor showed excellent analytical performances toward hydrogen peroxide (detection limit: 0.1 μM; linear range: 0.2 μM-23.5 mM) and nitrite (detection limit: 0.2 μM; linear range: 0.4-30 μM and 30-400 μM). The superior analytical properties could be attributed to the synergic effect and firmly embedment of well-dispersed PdCo alloy nanoparticles. These attractive electrochemical properties make this robust electrode material promising for the development of effective electrochemical sensors. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

SEM and AFM Studies of Two-Phase Magnetic Alkali Borosilicate Glasses

PubMed Central

Tomkovich, M.; Nacke, B.; Filimonov, A.; Alekseeva, O.; Vanina, P.; Nizhankovskii, V.

2017-01-01

The morphology and composition of four types of two-phase alkali borosilicate glasses with magnetic atoms prepared by inductive melting have been studied. The results of scanning electron microscopy point to uniform distribution of Na, Si, and O atoms in these samples while magnetic iron atoms form ball-shaped agglomerates. The magnetic properties of these agglomerates have been confirmed by magnetic force microscopy. Atomic force microscopy had shown that in these samples two different morphological structures, drop-like and dendrite net, are formed. The formation of dendrite-like structure is a necessary condition for production of porous magnetic glasses. The obtained results allow us to optimize the melting and heat treatment processes leading to production of porous alkali borosilicate glasses with magnetic properties. The first results for nanocomposite materials on the basis of magnetic glasses containing the embedded ferroelectrics KH2PO4 demonstrate the effect of applied magnetic field on the ferroelectric phase transition. PMID:28428976

Functional characterization of a novel 3D model of the epithelial-mesenchymal trophic unit.

PubMed

Bucchieri, Fabio; Pitruzzella, Alessandro; Fucarino, Alberto; Gammazza, Antonella Marino; Bavisotto, Celeste Caruso; Marcianò, Vito; Cajozzo, Massimo; Lo Iacono, Giorgio; Marchese, Roberto; Zummo, Giovanni; Holgate, Stephen T; Davies, Donna E

2017-03-01

Epithelial-mesenchymal communication plays a key role in tissue homeostasis and abnormal signaling contributes to chronic airways disease such as COPD. Most in vitro models are limited in complexity and poorly represent this epithelial-mesenchymal trophic unit. We postulated that cellular outgrowth from bronchial tissue would enable development of a mucosal structure that recapitulates better in vivo tissue architecture. Bronchial tissue was embedded in Matrigel and outgrowth cultures monitored using time-lapse microscopy, electrical resistance, light and electron microscopy. Cultures were challenged repetitively with cigarette smoke extract (CSE). The outgrowths formed as a multicellular sheet with motile cilia becoming evident as the Matrigel was remodeled to provide an air interface; cultures were viable for more than one year. Immunofluorescence and electron microscopy (EM) identified an upper layer of mucociliary epithelium and a lower layer of highly organized extracellular matrix (ECM) interspersed with fibroblastic cells separated by a basement membrane. EM analysis of the mucosal construct after repetitive exposure to CSE revealed epithelial damage, loss of cilia, and ECM remodeling, as occurs in vivo. We have developed a robust bronchial mucosal model. The structural changes observed following CSE exposure suggest the model should have utility for drug discovery and preclinical testing, especially those targeting airway remodeling.

Improvement of Strength-Toughness-Hardness Balance in Large Cross-Section 718H Pre-Hardened Mold Steel

PubMed Central

Liu, Hanghang; Fu, Paixian; Liu, Hongwei; Li, Dianzhong

2018-01-01

The strength-toughness combination and hardness uniformity in large cross-section 718H pre-hardened mold steel from a 20 ton ingot were investigated with three different heat treatments for industrial applications. The different microstructures, including tempered martensite, lower bainite, and retained austenite, were obtained at equivalent hardness. The microstructures were characterized by using metallographic observations, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and electron back-scattered diffraction (EBSD). The mechanical properties were compared by tensile, Charpy U-notch impact and hardness uniformity tests at room temperature. The results showed that the test steels after normalizing-quenching-tempering (N-QT) possessed the best strength-toughness combination and hardness uniformity compared with the conventional quenched-tempered (QT) steel. In addition, the test steel after austempering-tempering (A-T) demonstrated the worse hardness uniformity and lower yield strength while possessing relatively higher elongation (17%) compared with the samples after N-QT (14.5%) treatments. The better ductility of A-T steel mainly depended on the amount and morphology of retained austenite and thermal/deformation-induced twined martensite. This work elucidates the mechanisms of microstructure evolution during heat treatments and will highly improve the strength-toughness-hardness trade-off in large cross-section steels. PMID:29642642

Surface alloying of aluminum with molybdenum by high-current pulsed electron beam

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xia, Han; Zhang, Conglin; Lv, Peng; Cai, Jie; Jin, Yunxue; Guan, Qingfeng

2018-02-01

The surface alloying of pre-coated molybdenum (Mo) film on aluminum (Al) substrate by high-current pulsed electron beam (HCPEB) was investigated. The microstructure and phase analysis were conducted by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The results show that Mo particles were dissolved into Al matrix to form alloying layer, which was composed of Mo, Al and acicular or equiaxed Al5Mo phases after surface alloying. Meanwhile, various structure defects such as dislocation loops, high-density dislocations and dislocation walls were observed in the alloying surface. The corrosion resistance was tested by using potentiodynamic polarization curves and electrochemical impedance spectra (EIS). Electrochemical results indicate that all the alloying samples had better corrosion resistance in 3.5 wt% NaCl solution compared to initial sample. The excellent corrosion resistance is mainly attributed to the combined effect of the structure defects and the addition of Mo element to form a more stable passive film.

Immunocytochemical localization of actin in epithelial cells of rat small intestine by light and electron microscopy.

PubMed

Hagen, S J; Trier, J S

1988-07-01

We used post-embedding immunocytochemical techniques and affinity-purified anti-actin antibody to evaluate localization of actin in epithelial cells of small intestine by fluorescence and electron microscopy. Small intestine was fixed with 2% formaldehyde-0.1% glutaraldehyde and embedded in Lowicryl K4M. One-micron or thin sections were stained with antibody followed by rhodamine- or colloidal gold-labeled goat anti-rabbit IgG, respectively. Label was present overlying microvilli, the apical terminal web, and the cytoplasm directly adjacent to occluding and intermediate junctions. Label was associated with outer mitochondrial membranes of all cells and the supranuclear Golgi region of goblet cells. Lateral cytoplasmic interdigitations between mature cells and subplasmalemmal filaments next to intrusive cells were densely labeled. The cytoplasm adjacent to unplicated domains of lateral membrane was focally labeled. Label was prominent over organized filament bundles within the subplasmalemmal web at the base of mature cells, whereas there was focal labeling of the cytoplasm adjacent to the basal membrane of undifferentiated cells. Basolateral epithelial cell processes were labeled. Label was focally present overlying the cellular ground substance. Our results demonstrate that actin is distributed in a distinctive fashion within intestinal epithelial cells. This distribution suggests that in addition to its function as a structural protein, actin may participate in regulation of epithelial tight junction permeability, in motile processes including migration of cells from the crypt to the villus tip, in accommodation of intrusive intraepithelial cells and in adhesion of cells to one another and to their substratum.

Thin Film Nanocomposite Membrane Filled with Metal-Organic Frameworks UiO-66 and MIL-125 Nanoparticles for Water Desalination

PubMed Central

Kadhom, Mohammed; Hu, Weiming; Deng, Baolin

2017-01-01

Knowing that the world is facing a shortage of fresh water, desalination, in its different forms including reverse osmosis, represents a practical approach to produce potable water from a saline source. In this report, two kinds of Metal-Organic Frameworks (MOFs) nanoparticles (NPs), UiO-66 (~100 nm) and MIL-125 (~100 nm), were embedded separately into thin-film composite membranes in different weight ratios, 0%, 0.05%, 0.1%, 0.15%, 0.2%, and 0.3%. The membranes were synthesized by the interfacial polymerization (IP) of m-phenylenediamine (MPD) in aqueous solution and trimesoyl chloride (TMC) in an organic phase. The as-prepared membranes were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), contact angle measurement, attenuated total reflection Fourier transform infrared (ATR FT-IR) spectroscopy, and salt rejection and water flux assessments. Results showed that both UiO-66 and MIL-125 could improve the membranes’ performance and the impacts depended on the NPs loading. At the optimum NPs loadings, 0.15% for UiO-66 and 0.3% for MIL-125, the water flux increased from 62.5 L/m2 h to 74.9 and 85.0 L/m2 h, respectively. NaCl rejection was not significantly affected (UiO-66) or slightly improved (MIL-125) by embedding these NPs, always at >98.5% as tested at 2000 ppm salt concentration and 300 psi transmembrane pressure. The results from this study demonstrate that it is promising to apply MOFs NPs to enhance the TFC membrane performance for desalination. PMID:28613247

Different patterns of collagen-proteoglycan interaction: a scanning electron microscopy and atomic force microscopy study.

PubMed

Raspanti, M; Congiu, T; Alessandrini, A; Gobbi, P; Ruggeri, A

2000-01-01

The extracellular matrix of unfixed, unstained rat corneal stroma, visualized with high-resolution scanning electron microscopy and atomic force microscopy after minimal preliminary treatment, appears composed of straight, parallel, uniform collagen fibrils regularly spaced by a three-dimensional, irregular network of thin, delicate proteoglycan filaments. Rat tail tendon, observed under identical conditions, appears instead made of heterogeneous, closely packed fibrils interwoven with orthogonal proteoglycan filaments. Pre-treatment with cupromeronic blue just thickens the filaments without affecting their spatial layout. Digestion with chondroitinase ABC rids the tendon matrix of all its interconnecting filaments while the corneal stroma architecture remains virtually unaffected, its fibrils always being separated by an evident interfibrillar spacing which is never observed in tendon. Our observations indicate that matrix proteoglycans are responsible for both the highly regular interfibrillar spacing which is distinctive of corneal stroma, and the strong interfibrillar binding observed in tendon. These opposite interaction patterns appear to be distinctive of different proteoglycan species. The molecular details of proteoglycan interactions are still incompletely understood and are the subject of ongoing research.

Growth of boron doped hydrogenated nanocrystalline cubic silicon carbide (3C-SiC) films by Hot Wire-CVD

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

Pawbake, Amit; Tata Institute of Fundamental Research, Colaba, Mumbai 400 005; Mayabadi, Azam

Highlights: • Boron doped nc-3C-SiC films prepared by HW-CVD using SiH{sub 4}/CH{sub 4}/B{sub 2}H{sub 6}. • 3C-Si-C films have preferred orientation in (1 1 1) direction. • Introduction of boron into SiC matrix retard the crystallanity in the film structure. • Film large number of SiC nanocrystallites embedded in the a-Si matrix. • Band gap values, E{sub Tauc} and E{sub 04} (E{sub 04} > E{sub Tauc}) decreases with increase in B{sub 2}H{sub 6} flow rate. - Abstract: Boron doped nanocrystalline cubic silicon carbide (3C-SiC) films have been prepared by HW-CVD using silane (SiH{sub 4})/methane (CH{sub 4})/diborane (B{sub 2}H{sub 6}) gasmore » mixture. The influence of boron doping on structural, optical, morphological and electrical properties have been investigated. The formation of 3C-SiC films have been confirmed by low angle XRD, Raman spectroscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), Fourier transform infra-red (FTIR) spectroscopy and high resolution-transmission electron microscopy (HR-TEM) analysis whereas effective boron doping in nc-3C-SiC have been confirmed by conductivity, charge carrier activation energy, and Hall measurements. Raman spectroscopy and HR-TEM analysis revealed that introduction of boron into the SiC matrix retards the crystallanity in the film structure. The field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM) and non contact atomic force microscopy (NC-AFM) results signify that 3C-SiC film contain well resolved, large number of silicon carbide (SiC) nanocrystallites embedded in the a-Si matrix having rms surface roughness ∼1.64 nm. Hydrogen content in doped films are found smaller than that of un-doped films. Optical band gap values, E{sub Tauc} and E{sub 04} decreases with increase in B{sub 2}H{sub 6} flow rate.« less

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.

Pronounced pre-martensitic anomaly in the magnetization on Ni2MnGa thin films

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Neckel, I. T.; Müller, C.; Nobrega, K. Z.; Dartora, C. A.; Schreiner, W. H.; Mosca, D. H.

2018-05-01

We have prepared [110]-textured Ni2MnGa thin films exhibiting an unusual pre-martensitic transition accompanied by an extremely large magnetization change. The thin films were grown by molecular beam epitaxy directly on epi-ready GaAs(111)B. Crystalline structure was investigated in situ by reflection high-energy electron diffraction (RHEED) and ex situ by x-ray diffraction (XRD) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The results show that the film exhibits cubic crystalline structure (L2 1) at room temperature with lattice parameter a = 5.88 Å which undergoes martensitic transition. Magnetic characterization shows ferromagnetic behavior at room temperature with Curie temperature higher than room temperature. Martensitic transformation occurs at TM ∼ 185 K. A phenomenological model based on Landau theory of phase transformation was developed to explain the anomalous pre-martensitic transition at ∼285 K.

Memory characteristics of metal-oxide-semiconductor structures based on Ge nanoclusters-embedded GeO(x) films grown at low temperature.

PubMed

Lin, Tzu-Shun; Lou, Li-Ren; Lee, Ching-Ting; Tsai, Tai-Cheng

2012-03-01

The memory devices constructed from the Ge-nanoclusters embedded GeO(x) layer deposited by the laser-assisted chemical vapor deposition (LACVD) system were fabricated. The Ge nanoclusters were observed by a high-resolution transmission electron microscopy. Using the capacitance versus voltage (C-V) and the conductance versus voltage (G-V) characteristics measured under various frequencies, the memory effect observed in the C-V curves was dominantly attributed to the charge storage in the Ge nanoclusters. Furthermore, the defects existed in the deposited film and the interface states were insignificant to the memory performances. Capacitance versus time (C-t) measurement was also executed to evaluate the charge retention characteristics. The charge storage and retention behaviors of the devices demonstrated that the Ge nanoclusters grown by the LACVD system at low temperature are promising for memory device applications.

Ion beam-induced shaping of Ni nanoparticles embedded in a silica matrix: from spherical to prolate shape

PubMed Central

2011-01-01

Present work reports the elongation of spherical Ni nanoparticles (NPs) parallel to each other, due to bombardment with 120 MeV Au+9 ions at a fluence of 5 × 1013 ions/cm2. The Ni NPs embedded in silica matrix have been prepared by atom beam sputtering technique and subsequent annealing. The elongation of Ni NPs due to interaction with Au+9 ions as investigated by cross-sectional transmission electron microscopy (TEM) shows a strong dependence on initial Ni particle size and is explained on the basis of thermal spike model. Irradiation induces a change from single crystalline nature of spherical particles to polycrystalline nature of elongated particles. Magnetization measurements indicate that changes in coercivity (Hc) and remanence ratio (Mr/Ms) are stronger in the ion beam direction due to the preferential easy axis of elongated particles in the beam direction. PMID:21711659

Fabrication of multilayered Ge nanocrystals embedded in SiO xGeN y films

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gao, Fei; Green, Martin A.; Conibeer, Gavin; Cho, Eun-Chel; Huang, Yidan; Perez-Wurfl, Ivan; Flynn, Chris

2008-09-01

Multilayered Ge nanocrystals embedded in SiO xGeN y films have been fabricated on Si substrate by a (Ge + SiO 2)/SiO xGeN y superlattice approach, using a rf magnetron sputtering technique with a Ge + SiO 2 composite target and subsequent thermal annealing in N 2 ambient at 750 °C for 30 min. X-ray diffraction (XRD) measurement indicated the formation of Ge nanocrystals with an average size estimated to be 5.4 nm. Raman scattering spectra showed a peak of the Ge-Ge vibrational mode downward shifted to 299.4 cm -1, which was caused by quantum confinement of phonons in the Ge nanocrystals. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) revealed that Ge nanocrystals were confined in (Ge + SiO 2) layers. This superlattice approach significantly improved both the size uniformity of Ge nanocrystals and their uniformity of spacing on the 'Z' growth direction.

Synthesis and applications of MANs/poly(MMA-co-BA) nanocomposite latex by miniemulsion polymerization

PubMed Central

Chen, Huayao; Zhou, Xinhua; Gunasekaran, Sundaram

2017-01-01

We have synthesized core-shell structured 3-methacryloxypropyltrimethoxysilane (MPS) functionalized antimony-doped tin oxide nanoparticles (MANs)–poly(methyl methacrylate-co-butyl acrylate) (PMMA-co-BA, PMB) nanocomposite latex particles via miniemulsion polymerization method. Polymerizable anionic surfactant DNS-86 (allyloxy polyoxyethylene(10) nonyl ammonium sulfate) was first introduced to synthesize core-shell nanocomposite. The morphologies of synthesized MANs and MANs/PMB latex nanocomposite particles were studied with transmission electron microscopy, which revealed particles, on average 70 nm in size, with a core-shell structure. Owing to the uniformity and hydrophobicity of MANs, the MANs-embedded PMB latex nanocomposite can be tailored more precisely than other nanoparticles-embedded nanocomposites. Films incorporating 10 wt% of MANs in the MAN/PMB latex nanocomposite exhibit good transmittance in the visible region, and excellent opacity in the near infrared region. The MANs/PMB nanocomposite film also appears suitable for heat insulation applications. PMID:29291076

Organic bistable memory devices based on MoO3 nanoparticle embedded Alq3 structures.

PubMed

Abhijith, T; Kumar, T V Arun; Reddy, V S

2017-03-03

Organic bistable memory devices were fabricated by embedding a thin layer of molybdenum trioxide (MoO 3 ) between two tris-(8-hydroxyquinoline)aluminum (Alq 3 ) layers. The device exhibited excellent switching characteristics with an ON/OFF current ratio of 1.15 × 10 3 at a read voltage of 1 V. The device showed repeatable write-erase capability and good stability in both the conductance states. These conductance states are non-volatile in nature and can be obtained by applying appropriate voltage pulses. The effect of MoO 3 layer thickness and its location in the Alq 3 matrix on characteristics of the memory device was investigated. The field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM) images of the MoO 3 layer revealed the presence of isolated nanoparticles. Based on the experimental results, a mechanism has been proposed for explaining the conductance switching of fabricated devices.

Nanofibrillated Cellulose and Copper Nanoparticles Embedded in Polyvinyl Alcohol Films for Antimicrobial Applications

PubMed Central

Zhong, Tuhua; Oporto, Gloria S.; Jaczynski, Jacek; Jiang, Changle

2015-01-01

Our long-term goal is to develop a hybrid cellulose-copper nanoparticle material as a functional nanofiller to be incorporated in thermoplastic resins for efficiently improving their antimicrobial properties. In this study, copper nanoparticles were first synthesized through chemical reduction of cupric ions on TEMPO nanofibrillated cellulose (TNFC) template using borohydride as a copper reducing agent. The resulting hybrid material was embedded into a polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) matrix using a solvent casting method. The morphology of TNFC-copper nanoparticles was analyzed by transmission electron microscopy (TEM); spherical copper nanoparticles with average size of 9.2 ± 2.0 nm were determined. Thermogravimetric analysis and antimicrobial performance of the films were evaluated. Slight variations in thermal properties between the nanocomposite films and PVA resin were observed. Antimicrobial analysis demonstrated that one-week exposure of nonpathogenic Escherichia coli DH5α to the nanocomposite films results in up to 5-log microbial reduction. PMID:26137482

Inactivation of bacteria by electric current in the presence of carbon nanotubes embedded within a polymeric membrane.

PubMed

Zhu, Anna; Liu, Harris K; Long, Feng; Su, Erzheng; Klibanov, Alexander M

2015-01-01

Uniform conductive composite membranes were prepared using a phase inversion method by blending carboxyl-functionalized multi-walled carbon nanotubes (CNTs) with a polysulfone polymer. At 6 % of the embedded CNTs, the membrane pore size measured by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) was approximately 50 nm. Electric current in the presence of the composite membranes markedly inactivated the model pathogenic bacteria Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus, with the extent of bacterial inactivation rising when the current was increased. Over 99.999 % inactivation of both bacteria was observed in deionized water after 40 min at 5 mA direct current (DC); importantly, no appreciable inactivation occurred in the absence of either the electric field or the CNTs within the membranes under otherwise the same conditions. A much lower, although still pronounced, inactivation was seen with alternating current (AC) in a 25 mM NaCl aqueous solution.

Organic bistable memory devices based on MoO3 nanoparticle embedded Alq3 structures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Abhijith, T.; Kumar, T. V. Arun; Reddy, V. S.

2017-03-01

Organic bistable memory devices were fabricated by embedding a thin layer of molybdenum trioxide (MoO3) between two tris-(8-hydroxyquinoline)aluminum (Alq3) layers. The device exhibited excellent switching characteristics with an ON/OFF current ratio of 1.15 × 103 at a read voltage of 1 V. The device showed repeatable write-erase capability and good stability in both the conductance states. These conductance states are non-volatile in nature and can be obtained by applying appropriate voltage pulses. The effect of MoO3 layer thickness and its location in the Alq3 matrix on characteristics of the memory device was investigated. The field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM) images of the MoO3 layer revealed the presence of isolated nanoparticles. Based on the experimental results, a mechanism has been proposed for explaining the conductance switching of fabricated devices.

Ge nanocrystals embedded in ultrathin Si3N4 multilayers with SiO2 barriers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bahariqushchi, R.; Gundogdu, Sinan; Aydinli, A.

2017-04-01

Multilayers of germanium nanocrystals (NCs) embedded in thin films of silicon nitride matrix separated with SiO2 barriers have been fabricated using plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition (PECVD). SiGeN/SiO2 alternating bilayers have been grown on quartz and Si substrates followed by post annealing in Ar ambient from 600 to 900 °C. High resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) as well as Raman spectroscopy show good crystallinity of Ge confined to SiGeN layers in samples annealed at 900 °C. Strong compressive stress for SiGeN/SiO2 structures were observed through Raman spectroscopy. Size, as well as NC-NC distance were controlled along the growth direction for multilayer samples by varying the thickness of bilayers. Visible photoluminescence (PL) at 2.3 and 3.1 eV with NC size dependent intensity is observed and possible origin of PL is discussed.

Refractive-Index Tuning of Highly Fluorescent Carbon Dots.

PubMed

Kumar, Vijay Bhooshan; Sahu, Amit Kumar; Mohsin, Abu S M; Li, Xiangping; Gedanken, Aharon

2017-08-30

In this manuscript, we report the refractive-index (RI) modulation of various concentrations of nitrogen-doped carbon dots (N@C-dots) embedded in poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) polymer. The dispersion and size distribution of N@C-dots embedded within PVA have been investigated using electron microscopy. The RI of PVA-N@C-dots can be enhanced by increasing the doping concentration of highly fluorescent C-dots (quantum yield 44%). This is demonstrated using ultraviolet-visible (UV-visible), photoluminscence, Raman, and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy measurements. The Mie scattering of light on N@C-dots was applied for developing the relationship between RI tuning and absorption cross section of N@C-dots. The extinction cross section of N@C-dot thin films can be rapidly enhanced by either tuning the RI or increasing the concentration of N@C-dots. The developed method can be used as effective RI contrast for various applications such as holography creation and bioimaging.

Long shelf-life streptavidin support-films suitable for electron microscopy of biological macromolecules

DOE PAGES

Han, Bong-Gyoon; Watson, Zoe; Kang, Hannah; ...

2016-06-15

We describe a rapid and convenient method of growing streptavidin (SA) monolayer crystals directly on holey-carbon EM grids. As expected, these SA monolayer crystals retain their biotin-binding function and crystalline order through a cycle of embedding in trehalose and, later, its removal. This fact allows one to prepare, and store for later use, EM grids on which SA monolayer crystals serve as an affinity substrate for preparing specimens of biological macromolecules. In addition, we report that coating the lipid-tail side of trehalose-embedded monolayer crystals with evaporated carbon appears to improve the consistency with which well-ordered, single crystals are observed tomore » span over entire, 2 μm holes of the support films. Randomly biotinylated 70S ribosomes are used as a test specimen to show that these support films can be used to obtain a high-resolution cryo-EM structure« less

Effects of different radiation doses on the microhardness, superficial morphology, and mineral components of human enamel.

PubMed

de Barros da Cunha, Sandra Ribeiro; Fonseca, Felipe Paiva; Ramos, Pedro Augusto Minorin Mendes; Haddad, Cecília Maria Kalil; Fregnani, Eduardo Rodrigues; Aranha, Ana Cecília Corrêa

2017-08-01

To evaluate the effects of three different radiotherapy doses (20, 40, and 70Gy) on the microhardness, superficial morphology, and mineral content (based on Ca and P values) of three different depths of human enamel (cervical, middle, and occlusal). Thirty-four third molars were cut, separated, and prepared. Microhardness samples (n=30) were embedded in acrylic resin and then polished, and depths were delimited. Microhardness tests were performed on cervical, middle, and occlusal enamel pre- and post-radiotherapy with a load of 50g for 30s. For the scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis (n=4) and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) (n=12), samples were fixed in a 3% glutaraldehyde solution, washed in 0.1M cacodylate solution, and dehydrated in crescent concentrations of ethanol. Microhardness data were tested for significant differences using a two-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Tukey's test (p<0.05), while SEM and EDS were evaluated qualitatively. The results showed a decrease in microhardness values only in the cervical enamel, regardless of the radiation dose used; no morphological or mineral change was observed. Radiotherapy can affect the microhardness values of only cervical enamel without compromising the morphological or mineral (Ca and P) content at any depth. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

A cytological and experimental study of the neuropil and primary olfactory afferences to the piriform cortex.

PubMed

Vargas-Barroso, Víctor; Larriva-Sahd, Jorge

2013-09-01

The microscopic organization of the piriform cortex (PC) was studied in normal and experimental material from adult albino rats. In rapid-Golgi specimens a set of collaterals from the lateral olfactory tract (i.e., sublayer Ia) to the neuropil of the Layer II (LII) was identified. Specimens from experimental animals that received electrolytic lesion of the main olfactory bulb three days before sacrificing, were further processed for pre-embedding immunocytochemistry to the enzyme glutamic acid decarboxylase 67 (GAD 67). This novel approach permitted a simultaneous visualization at electron microscopy of both synaptic degeneration and GAD67-immunoreactive (GAD-I) sites. Degenerating and GAD-I synapses were separately found in the neuropil of Layers I and II of the PC. Previously overlooked patches of neuropil were featured in sublayer Ia. These areas consisted of dendritic and axonal processes including four synaptic types. Tridimensional reconstructions from serial thin sections from LI revealed the external appearance of the varicose and tubular dendrites as well as the synaptic terminals therein. The putative source(s) of processes to the neuropil of sublayer Ia is discussed in the context of the internal circuitry of the PC and an alternative model is introduced. Copyright © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Magnetic properties evolution of the CoxFe3-xO4/SiO2 system due to advanced thermal treatment at 700 °C and 1000 °C

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dippong, Thomas; Levei, Erika Andrea; Tanaselia, Claudiu; Gabor, Mihai; Nasui, Mircea; Barbu Tudoran, Lucian; Borodi, Gheorghe

2016-07-01

The CoxFe3-xO4 (x=0.5-2.5) system embedded in the silica matrix was synthesised by sol-gel method using cobalt nitrate, iron nitrate, 1.4-butanediol and tetraethyl orthosilicate. Five different Co/Fe molar ratios in the presence of diol and one without diol were used for the synthesis. The obtained gels were subjected to thermal treatment at 700 °C and 1000 °C. The oxide species formed in the silica matrix, the optimum temperature for the CoFe2O4 phase formation, the evolution of nanocrystallites size and magnetic properties with the calcination temperature were studied. The formed oxide species were studied using X-ray diffraction, Fourier transformed infrared spectrometry, the Co/Fe molar ratio was confirmed using inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry, the nanocrystallites size, shape and clustering was identified by transmission electron microscopy and scanning electron microscopy, while the formation of magnetic phases was investigated by hysteresis and magnetization derivatives measurements.

Imaging, Spectroscopic, Mechanical and Biocompatibility Studies of Electrospun Tecoflex® EG 80A Nanofibers and Composites Thereof Containing Multiwalled Carbon Nanotubes

PubMed Central

Macossay, Javier; Sheikh, Faheem A.; Cantu, Travis; Eubanks, Thomas M.; Salinas, M. Esther; Farhangi, Chakavak S.; Ahmad, Hassan; Hassan, M. Shamshi; Khil, Myung-seob; Maffi, Shivani K.; Kim, Hern; Bowlin, Gary l.

2014-01-01

The present study discusses the design, development and characterization of electrospun Tecoflex® EG 80A class of polyurethane nanofibers and the incorporation of multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) to these materials. Scanning electron microscopy results confirmed the presence of polymer nanofibers, which showed a decrease in fiber diameter at 0.5% wt. and 1% wt. MWCNTs loadings, while transmission electron microscopy showed evidence of the MWCNTs embedded within the polymer matrix. The fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and Raman spectroscopy were used to elucidate the polymer-MWCNTs intermolecular interactions, indicating that the C-N and N-H bonds in polyurethanes are responsible for the interactions with MWCNTs. Furthermore, tensile testing indicated an increase in the Young’s modulus of the nanofibers as the MWCNTs concentration was increased. Finally, NIH 3T3 fibroblasts were seeded on the obtained nanofibers, demonstrating cell biocompatibility and proliferation. Therefore, the results indicate the successful formation of polyurethane nanofibers with enhanced mechanical properties, and demonstrate their biocompatibility, suggesting their potential application in biomedical areas. PMID:25435600

Fabrication and Electromagnetic Properties of Conjugated NH2-CuPc@Fe3O4

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yan, Liang; Pu, Zejun; Xu, Mingzhen; Wei, Renbo; Liu, Xiaobo

2017-10-01

Conjugated amino-phthalocyanine copper containing carboxyl groups/magnetite (NH2-CuPc@Fe3O4) has been fabricated from FeCl3·6H2O and NH2-CuPc via a simple solvothermal method and its electromagnetic properties investigated. Scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy revealed that the NH2-CuPc@Fe3O4 was a waxberry-like nanomaterial with NH2-CuPc molecules effectively embedded in the interior of Fe3O4 particles in the form of beads. Introduction of NH2-CuPc effectively improved the complementarity between the dielectric and magnetic losses of the system, resulting in excellent electromagnetic performance. The minimum reflection loss of the as-prepared composite reached -33.4 dB at 7.0 GHz for coating layer thickness of 4.0 mm and bandwidth below -10.0 dB (90% absorption) of up to 3.8 GHz. These results indicate that introduction of NH2-CuPc results in a composite with potential for use as an electromagnetic microwave absorption material.

THE FINE STRUCTURE OF THE NUCLEOLUS DURING MITOSIS IN THE GRASSHOPPER NEUROBLAST CELL

PubMed Central

Stevens, Barbara J.

1965-01-01

The behavior of the nucleolus during mitosis was studied by electron microscopy in neuroblast cells of the grasshopper embryo, Chortophaga viridifasciata. Living neuroblast cells were observed in the light microscope, and their mitotic stages were identified and recorded. The cells were fixed and embedded; alternate thick and thin sections were made for light and electron microscopy. The interphase nucleolus consists of two fine structural components arranged in separate zones. Concentrations of 150 A granules form a dense peripheral zone, while the central regions are composed of a homogeneous background substance. Observations show that nucleolar dissolution in prophase occurs in two steps with a preliminary loss of the background substance followed by a dispersal of the granules. Nucleolar material reappears at anaphase as small clumps or layers at the chromosome surfaces. These later form into definite bodies, which disappear as the nucleolus grows in telophase. Evidence suggests both a collecting and a synthesizing role for the nucleolus-associated chromatin. The final, mature nucleolar form is produced by a rearrangement of the fine structural components and an increase in their mass. PMID:14326121

Imaging, spectroscopic, mechanical and biocompatibility studies of electrospun Tecoflex® EG 80A nanofibers and composites thereof containing multiwalled carbon nanotubes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Macossay, Javier; Sheikh, Faheem A.; Cantu, Travis; Eubanks, Thomas M.; Salinas, M. Esther; Farhangi, Chakavak S.; Ahmad, Hassan; Hassan, M. Shamshi; Khil, Myung-seob; Maffi, Shivani K.; Kim, Hern; Bowlin, Gary l.

2014-12-01

The present study discusses the design, development, and characterization of electrospun Tecoflex® EG 80A class of polyurethane nanofibers and the incorporation of multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) to these materials. Scanning electron microscopy results confirmed the presence of polymer nanofibers, which showed a decrease in fiber diameter at 0.5% wt. and 1% wt. MWCNTs loadings, while transmission electron microscopy showed evidence of the MWCNTs embedded within the polymer matrix. The Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and Raman spectroscopy were used to elucidate the polymer-MWCNTs intermolecular interactions, indicating that the C-N and N-H bonds in polyurethanes are responsible for the interactions with MWCNTs. Furthermore, tensile testing indicated an increase in the Young's modulus of the nanofibers as the MWCNTs concentration was increased. Finally, NIH 3T3 fibroblasts were seeded on the obtained nanofibers, demonstrating cell biocompatibility and proliferation. Therefore, the results indicate the successful formation of polyurethane nanofibers with enhanced mechanical properties, and demonstrate their biocompatibility, suggesting their potential application in biomedical areas.

Imaging, Spectroscopic, Mechanical and Biocompatibility Studies of Electrospun Tecoflex® EG 80A Nanofibers and Composites Thereof Containing Multiwalled Carbon Nanotubes.

PubMed

Macossay, Javier; Sheikh, Faheem A; Cantu, Travis; Eubanks, Thomas M; Salinas, M Esther; Farhangi, Chakavak S; Ahmad, Hassan; Hassan, M Shamshi; Khil, Myung-Seob; Maffi, Shivani K; Kim, Hern; Bowlin, Gary L

2014-12-01

The present study discusses the design, development and characterization of electrospun Tecoflex ® EG 80A class of polyurethane nanofibers and the incorporation of multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) to these materials. Scanning electron microscopy results confirmed the presence of polymer nanofibers, which showed a decrease in fiber diameter at 0.5% wt. and 1% wt. MWCNTs loadings, while transmission electron microscopy showed evidence of the MWCNTs embedded within the polymer matrix. The fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and Raman spectroscopy were used to elucidate the polymer-MWCNTs intermolecular interactions, indicating that the C-N and N-H bonds in polyurethanes are responsible for the interactions with MWCNTs. Furthermore, tensile testing indicated an increase in the Young's modulus of the nanofibers as the MWCNTs concentration was increased. Finally, NIH 3T3 fibroblasts were seeded on the obtained nanofibers, demonstrating cell biocompatibility and proliferation. Therefore, the results indicate the successful formation of polyurethane nanofibers with enhanced mechanical properties, and demonstrate their biocompatibility, suggesting their potential application in biomedical areas.

Correlative transmission electron microscopy and electrical properties study of switchable phase-change random access memory line cells

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

Oosthoek, J. L. M.; Kooi, B. J., E-mail: B.J.Kooi@rug.nl; Voogt, F. C.

2015-02-14

Phase-change memory line cells, where the active material has a thickness of 15 nm, were prepared for transmission electron microscopy (TEM) observation such that they still could be switched and characterized electrically after the preparation. The result of these observations in comparison with detailed electrical characterization showed (i) normal behavior for relatively long amorphous marks, resulting in a hyperbolic dependence between SET resistance and SET current, indicating a switching mechanism based on initially long and thin nanoscale crystalline filaments which thicken gradually, and (ii) anomalous behavior, which holds for relatively short amorphous marks, where initially directly a massive crystalline filament ismore » formed that consumes most of the width of the amorphous mark only leaving minor residual amorphous regions at its edges. The present results demonstrate that even in (purposely) thick TEM samples, the TEM sample preparation hampers the probability to observe normal behavior and it can be debated whether it is possible to produce electrically switchable TEM specimen in which the memory cells behave the same as in their original bulk embedded state.« less

Sporulation and ultrastructure in a late Proterozoic cyanophyte - Some implications for taxonomy and plant phylogeny

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Cloud, P.; Moorman, M.; Pierce, D.

1975-01-01

Electron microscopical studies of a morphologically diverse, coccoid, presumably late Proterozoic blue-green alga are here reported. They show, together with light microscopy, that the form studied is widespread in the Cordilleran geosyncline, extend the record of well-defined endosporangia perhaps 700 million years into the past, and reveal previously unrecorded ultrastructural details. Coming from northeastern Utah, southwestern Alberta, and east central Alaska, these minute fossils belong to the recently described, morphologically diverse taxon Sphaerocongregus variabilis Moorman, are related to living entophysalidaceans, and have affinities with both the chroococcalean and chamaesiphonalean cyanophytes. Included in the morphological modes displayed by this alga are individual unicells, coenobial clusters of unicells, and a range of endosporangia comparable to those described for living entophysalidaceans. Scanning and transmission electron microscopy reveal that the endospores are commonly embedded in a vesicular matrix, that some of them show what appears to be a bilaminate or perhaps locally multilaminate wall structure, and that some remain together to mature as coenobial clones or 'colonies'. Taxonomic classification and phylogeny are discussed.

Electron microscopy and computed microtomography studies of in vivo implanted mini-TL dosimeters.

PubMed

Strand, S E; Strandh, M; Spanne, P

1993-01-01

The need for direct methods of measuring the absorbed dose in vivo increases for systemic radiation therapy, and in more sophisticated methodologies developed for radioimmunotherapy. One method suggested is the use of mini-thermoluminescent dosimeters (TLD). Recent reports indicate a marked loss of signal when the dosimeters are used in vivo. We investigated the exterior surface of the dosimeters with scanning electron microscopy and the interior dosimeter volume with computed microtomography. The results show that the dosimeters initially have crystals uniformly embedded in the teflon matrix, with some of them directly exposed to the environment. After incubation in gel, holes appear in the dosimeter matrix where the crystals should have been. The computed microtomographic images show that crystals remain in the interior of the matrix, producing the remaining signal. We conclude that these dosimeters should be very carefully handled, and for practical use of mini-TLDs in vivo the dosimeters should be calibrated in equivalent milieus. An alternative solution to the problem of decreased TL efficiency, would be to coat the dosimeters with a thin layer, of Teflon, or other suitable material.

Correlative transmission electron microscopy and electrical properties study of switchable phase-change random access memory line cells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Oosthoek, J. L. M.; Voogt, F. C.; Attenborough, K.; Verheijen, M. A.; Hurkx, G. A. M.; Gravesteijn, D. J.; Kooi, B. J.

2015-02-01

Phase-change memory line cells, where the active material has a thickness of 15 nm, were prepared for transmission electron microscopy (TEM) observation such that they still could be switched and characterized electrically after the preparation. The result of these observations in comparison with detailed electrical characterization showed (i) normal behavior for relatively long amorphous marks, resulting in a hyperbolic dependence between SET resistance and SET current, indicating a switching mechanism based on initially long and thin nanoscale crystalline filaments which thicken gradually, and (ii) anomalous behavior, which holds for relatively short amorphous marks, where initially directly a massive crystalline filament is formed that consumes most of the width of the amorphous mark only leaving minor residual amorphous regions at its edges. The present results demonstrate that even in (purposely) thick TEM samples, the TEM sample preparation hampers the probability to observe normal behavior and it can be debated whether it is possible to produce electrically switchable TEM specimen in which the memory cells behave the same as in their original bulk embedded state.

Structural, photoconductivity, and dielectric studies of polythiophene-tin oxide nanocomposites

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

Murugavel, S., E-mail: starin85@gmail.com; Malathi, M., E-mail: mmalathi@vit.ac.in

2016-09-15

Highlights: • Synthesis of polythiophene-tin oxide nanocomposites confirmed by FTIR and EDAX. • SEM shows SnO{sub 2} nanoparticles embedded within polythiophene matrix. • Stability and isoelectric point suggest nanoparticle–matrix interaction. • High dielectric constant due to high Maxwell–Wagner interfacial polarization. - Abstract: Polythiophene-tinoxide (PT-SnO{sub 2}) nanocomposites were prepared by in situ chemical oxidative polymerization, in the presence of various concentrations of SnO{sub 2} nanoparticles. Samples were characterized by X-ray diffraction, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and Zeta potential measurements. Morphologies and elemental compositions were investigated by transmission electron microscopy, field-emission scanning electron microscopy and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy.more » The photoconductivity of the nanocomposites was studied by field-dependent dark and photo conductivity measurements. Their dielectric properties were investigated using dielectric spectroscopy, in the frequency range of 1kHz–1 MHz. The results indicated that the SnO{sub 2} nanoparticles in the PT-SnO{sub 2} nanocomposite were responsible for its enhanced dielectric performance.« less

Synthesis and characterization of the NiFe2O4@TEOS-TPS@Ag nanocomposite and investigation of its antibacterial activity

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Allafchian, Ali R.; Jalali, S. A. H.; Amiri, R.; Shahabadi, Sh.

2016-11-01

In this study, the NiFe2O4 was embedded in (3-mercaptopropyl) trimethoxysilane (TPS) and tetraethyl orthosilicate (TEOS) using the sol-gel method. These compounds were used as the support of Ag nanoparticles (Ag NPs). The NiFe2O4@TEOS-TPS@Ag nanocomposites were obtained with the development of bonding between the silver atoms of Ag NPs and the sulfur atoms of TPS molecule. Field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) were used for the characterization of the Ag nanocomposites. Also, the magnetic properties of these nanocomposites were studied by using a vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM) technique. The disk diffusion, minimum inhibition concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentrations (MBC) tests were used for the investigation of the antibacterial effect of this nanocomposite against bacterial strains. The synthesized nanocomposite presented high reusability and good antibacterial activity against gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria. Remarkably, this nanocomposite could be easily removed from the disinfected media by magnetic decantation.

Polyaniline-Cadmium Ferrite Nanostructured Composite for Room-Temperature Liquefied Petroleum Gas Sensing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kotresh, S.; Ravikiran, Y. T.; Tiwari, S. K.; Vijaya Kumari, S. C.

2017-08-01

We introduce polyaniline-cadmium ferrite (PANI-CdFe2O4) nanostructured composite as a room-temperature-operable liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) sensor. The structure of PANI and the composite prepared by chemical polymerization was characterized by Fourier-transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy, x-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis, and field-emission scanning electron microscopy. Comparative XRD and FT-IR analysis confirmed CdFe2O4 embedded in PANI matrix with mutual interfacial interaction. The nanostructure of the composite was confirmed by transmission electron microscopy. A simple LPG sensor operable at room temperature, exclusively based on spin-coated PANI-CdFe2O4 nanocomposite, was fabricated with maximum sensing response of 50.83% at 1000 ppm LPG. The response and recovery time of the sensor were 50 s and 110 s, respectively, and it was stable over a period of 1 month with slight degradation of 4%. The sensing mechanism is discussed on the basis of the p- n heterojunction barrier formed at the interface of PANI and CdFe2O4.

Alignment of SWNTs by protein-ligand interaction of functionalized magnetic particles under low magnetic fields.

PubMed

Park, Tae Jung; Park, Jong Pil; Lee, Seok Jae; Jung, Dae-Hwan; Ko, Young Koan; Jung, Hee-Tae; Lee, Sang Yup

2011-05-01

Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) have attracted considerable attention for applications using their superior mechanical, thermal and electrical properties. A simple method to controllably align single-walled CNTs (SWNTs) by using magnetic particles embedded with superparamagnetic iron oxide as an accelerator under the magnetic field was developed. The functionalization of SWNTs using biotin, interacted with streptavidin-coupled magnetic particles (micro-to-nano in diameter), and layer-by-layer assembly were performed for the alignment of a particular direction onto the clean silicon and the gold substrate at very low magnetic forces (0.02-0.89 T) at room temperature. The successful alignment of the SWNTs with multi-layer film was observed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). By changing the orientation and location of the substrates, crossed-networks of SWNTs-magnetic particle complex could easily be fabricated. We suggest that this approach, which consists of a combination of biological interaction among streptavidin-biotin and magnetite particles, should be useful for lateral orientation of individual SWNTs with controllable direction.

Imaging of subunit complexes of thermophilic bacterium H(+)-ATPase with scanning tunneling microscopy.

PubMed

Masai, J; Shibata, T; Kagawa, Y; Kondo, S

1992-07-01

Using a scanning tunneling microscope (STM), we observed reconstructed subunit complexes of H(+)-ATPase of a thermophilic bacterium. The measurement was carried out in air without conductive coating on the samples deposited on a highly oriented pyrolytic graphite (HOPG). The F1 subunit complex of the H(+)-ATPase, and an H(+)-ATPase whose F0 portion was embedded into liposomes prepared from soybean lecithin were imaged. Overall structural images of the subunit complex F1 were obtained: the structural dimensions of the STM images are in agreement with those deduced from conventional methods such as an transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and small-angle X-ray scattering (SAX) experimentation. Regarding the STM imaging of these samples, we discuss the advantages and disadvantages of the STM over those of conventional methods such as a TEM and SAX.

Development of Self-Healing Coatings Based on Linseed Oil as Autonomous Repairing Agent for Corrosion Resistance.

PubMed

Thanawala, Karan; Mutneja, Nisha; Khanna, Anand S; Raman, R K Singh

2014-11-11

In recent years corrosion-resistant self-healing coatings have witnessed strong growth and their successful laboratory design and synthesis categorises them in the family of smart/multi-functional materials. Among various approaches for achieving self-healing, microcapsule embedment through the material matrix is the main one for self-healing ability in coatings. The present work focuses on optimizing the process parameters for developing microcapsules by in-situ polymerization of linseed oil as core and urea-formaldehyde as shell material. Characteristics of these microcapsules with respect to change in processing parameters such as stirring rate and reaction time were studied by using optical microscopy (OM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR). The effectiveness of these microcapsules in coatings was characterized by studying their adhesion, performance, and mechanical properties.

Development of Self-Healing Coatings Based on Linseed Oil as Autonomous Repairing Agent for Corrosion Resistance

PubMed Central

Thanawala, Karan; Mutneja, Nisha; Khanna, Anand S.; Singh Raman, R. K.

2014-01-01

In recent years corrosion-resistant self-healing coatings have witnessed strong growth and their successful laboratory design and synthesis categorises them in the family of smart/multi-functional materials. Among various approaches for achieving self-healing, microcapsule embedment through the material matrix is the main one for self-healing ability in coatings. The present work focuses on optimizing the process parameters for developing microcapsules by in-situ polymerization of linseed oil as core and urea-formaldehyde as shell material. Characteristics of these microcapsules with respect to change in processing parameters such as stirring rate and reaction time were studied by using optical microscopy (OM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR). The effectiveness of these microcapsules in coatings was characterized by studying their adhesion, performance, and mechanical properties. PMID:28788249

Persistent measles virus infection of the intestine: confirmation by immunogold electron microscopy.

PubMed Central

Lewin, J; Dhillon, A P; Sim, R; Mazure, G; Pounder, R E; Wakefield, A J

1995-01-01

This study sought to investigate persistent measles virus infection of the intestine: a novel protocol for immunogold electron microscopy was developed using a polyclonal anti-measles nucleoprotein antibody on reprocessed, formalin fixed paraffin wax embedded tissue sections. Antibody binding was detected using both immunoperoxidase and light microscopy on tissue sections, and 10 nm gold conjugated secondary antibody and electron microscopy on ultrathin sections. The techniques were validated using both measles infected vero cells and human tissues with established measles infection: these included brain affected by subacute sclerosing panencephalitis and acute measles appendicitis. The technique was applied subsequently to six untreated cases of granulomatous Crohn's disease, and two cases of ileocaecal tuberculosis, a granulomatous control. Mumps primary antibody--applied to both mumps infected vero cells, and measles infected vero cells and tissues studied by immunoperoxidase, and measles antibody on mumps infected cells studied by immunoperoxidase and immunogold--were used as specificity controls: the primary antibodies identified their respective target antigen and there was no antibody cross reactivity. Measles virus nucleocapsids labelled with gold conjugated antibody in both infected cells and tissues, including foci of granulomatous inflammation in five of six cases of Crohn's disease: in the fifth case, the granuloma could not be identified in ultrathin section. In one of the tuberculosis cases, a low level of signal was noted while the second case was negative. Labelling adopted a characteristic pattern in all infected tissues, strengthening the specificity of these findings. This study provides the first direct confirmation of persistent measles virus infection of the intestine. Images Figure 1 Figure 2 Figure 3 Figure 4 Figure 5 PMID:7737565

A probabilistic method for determining the volume fraction of pre-embedded capsules in self-healing materials

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lv, Zhong; Chen, Huisu

2014-10-01

Autonomous healing of cracks using pre-embedded capsules containing healing agent is becoming a promising approach to restore the strength of damaged structures. In addition to the material properties, the size and volume fraction of capsules influence crack healing in the matrix. Understanding the crack and capsule interaction is critical in the development and design of structures made of self-healing materials. Assuming that the pre-embedded capsules are randomly dispersed we theoretically model flat ellipsoidal crack interaction with capsules and determine the probability of a crack intersecting the pre-embedded capsules i.e. the self-healing probability. We also develop a probabilistic model of a crack simultaneously meeting with capsules and catalyst carriers in two-component self-healing system matrix. Using a risk-based healing approach, we determine the volume fraction and size of the pre-embedded capsules that are required to achieve a certain self-healing probability. To understand the effect of the shape of the capsules on self-healing we theoretically modeled crack interaction with spherical and cylindrical capsules. We compared the results of our theoretical model with Monte-Carlo simulations of crack interaction with capsules. The formulae presented in this paper will provide guidelines for engineers working with self-healing structures in material selection and sustenance.

Annealing temperature and environment effects on ZnO nanocrystals embedded in SiO2: a photoluminescence and TEM study

PubMed Central

2013-01-01

We report on efficient ZnO nanocrystal (ZnO-NC) emission in the near-UV region. We show that luminescence from ZnO nanocrystals embedded in a SiO2 matrix can vary significantly as a function of the annealing temperature from 450°C to 700°C. We manage to correlate the emission of the ZnO nanocrystals embedded in SiO2 thin films with transmission electron microscopy images in order to optimize the fabrication process. Emission can be explained using two main contributions, near-band-edge emission (UV range) and defect-related emissions (visible). Both contributions over 500°C are found to be size dependent in intensity due to a decrease of the absorption cross section. For the smallest-size nanocrystals, UV emission can only be accounted for using a blueshifted UV contribution as compared to the ZnO band gap. In order to further optimize the emission properties, we have studied different annealing atmospheres under oxygen and under argon gas. We conclude that a softer annealing temperature at 450°C but with longer annealing time under oxygen is the most preferable scenario in order to improve near-UV emission of the ZnO nanocrystals embedded in an SiO2 matrix. PMID:24314071

Annealing temperature and environment effects on ZnO nanocrystals embedded in SiO2: a photoluminescence and TEM study.

PubMed

Pita, Kantisara; Baudin, Pierre; Vu, Quang Vinh; Aad, Roy; Couteau, Christophe; Lérondel, Gilles

2013-12-06

We report on efficient ZnO nanocrystal (ZnO-NC) emission in the near-UV region. We show that luminescence from ZnO nanocrystals embedded in a SiO2 matrix can vary significantly as a function of the annealing temperature from 450°C to 700°C. We manage to correlate the emission of the ZnO nanocrystals embedded in SiO2 thin films with transmission electron microscopy images in order to optimize the fabrication process. Emission can be explained using two main contributions, near-band-edge emission (UV range) and defect-related emissions (visible). Both contributions over 500°C are found to be size dependent in intensity due to a decrease of the absorption cross section. For the smallest-size nanocrystals, UV emission can only be accounted for using a blueshifted UV contribution as compared to the ZnO band gap. In order to further optimize the emission properties, we have studied different annealing atmospheres under oxygen and under argon gas. We conclude that a softer annealing temperature at 450°C but with longer annealing time under oxygen is the most preferable scenario in order to improve near-UV emission of the ZnO nanocrystals embedded in an SiO2 matrix.

Tailoring plasmonic properties of metal nanoparticle-embedded dielectric thin films: the sandwich method of preparation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Laha, Ranjit; Malar, P.; Osipowicz, Thomas; Kasiviswanathan, S.

2017-09-01

Tailoring of plasmonic properties of metal nanoparticle-embedded dielectric thin films are very crucial for many thin film-based applications. We, herein, investigate the various ways of tuning the plasmonic positions of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs)-embedded indium oxide thin films (Au:IO) through a sequence-specific sandwich method. The sandwich method is a four-step process involving deposition of In2O3 film by magnetron sputtering in first and fourth steps, thermal evaporation of Au on to In2O3 film in second and annealing of Au/In2O3 film in the third step. The Au:IO films were characterized by x-ray diffraction, spectrophotometry and transmission electron microscopy. The size and shape of the embedded nanoparticles were found from Rutherford back-scattering spectrometry. Based on dynamic Maxwell Garnett theory, the observed plasmon resonance position was ascribed to the oblate shape of AuNPs formed in sandwich method. Finally, through experimental data, it was shown that the plasmon resonance position of Au:IO thin films can be tuned by 125 nm. The method shown here can be used to tune the plasmon resonance position over the entire range of visible region for the thin films made from other combinations of metal-dielectric pair.

Vision-based Nano Robotic System for High-throughput Non-embedded Cell Cutting

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shang, Wanfeng; Lu, Haojian; Wan, Wenfeng; Fukuda, Toshio; Shen, Yajing

2016-03-01

Cell cutting is a significant task in biology study, but the highly productive non-embedded cell cutting is still a big challenge for current techniques. This paper proposes a vision-based nano robotic system and then realizes automatic non-embedded cell cutting with this system. First, the nano robotic system is developed and integrated with a nanoknife inside an environmental scanning electron microscopy (ESEM). Then, the positions of the nanoknife and the single cell are recognized, and the distance between them is calculated dynamically based on image processing. To guarantee the positioning accuracy and the working efficiency, we propose a distance-regulated speed adapting strategy, in which the moving speed is adjusted intelligently based on the distance between the nanoknife and the target cell. The results indicate that the automatic non-embedded cutting is able to be achieved within 1-2 mins with low invasion benefiting from the high precise nanorobot system and the sharp edge of nanoknife. This research paves a way for the high-throughput cell cutting at cell’s natural condition, which is expected to make significant impact on the biology studies, especially for the in-situ analysis at cellular and subcellular scale, such as cell interaction investigation, neural signal transduction and low invasive cell surgery.

A Comparative Study of Sample Preparation for Staining and Immunodetection of Plant Cell Walls by Light Microscopy

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

Verhertbruggen, Yves; Walker, Jesse L.; Guillon, Fabienne

Staining and immunodetection by light microscopy are methods widely used to investigate plant cell walls. The two techniques have been crucial to study the cell wall architecture in planta, its deconstruction by chemicals or cell wall-degrading enzymes. They have been instrumental in detecting the presence of cell types, in deciphering plant cell wall evolution and in characterizing plant mutants and transformants. The success of immunolabeling relies on how plant materials are embedded and sectioned. Agarose coating, wax and resin embedding are, respectively, associated with vibratome, microtome and ultramicrotome sectioning. Here, we have systematically carried out a comparative analysis of thesemore » three methods of sample preparation when they are applied for cell wall staining and cell wall immunomicroscopy. In order to help the plant community in understanding and selecting adequate methods of embedding and sectioning for cell wall immunodetection, we review in this article the advantages and limitations of these three methods. Moreover, we offer detailed protocols of embedding for studying plant materials through microscopy.« less

A Comparative Study of Sample Preparation for Staining and Immunodetection of Plant Cell Walls by Light Microscopy

DOE PAGES

Verhertbruggen, Yves; Walker, Jesse L.; Guillon, Fabienne; ...

2017-08-29

Staining and immunodetection by light microscopy are methods widely used to investigate plant cell walls. The two techniques have been crucial to study the cell wall architecture in planta, its deconstruction by chemicals or cell wall-degrading enzymes. They have been instrumental in detecting the presence of cell types, in deciphering plant cell wall evolution and in characterizing plant mutants and transformants. The success of immunolabeling relies on how plant materials are embedded and sectioned. Agarose coating, wax and resin embedding are, respectively, associated with vibratome, microtome and ultramicrotome sectioning. Here, we have systematically carried out a comparative analysis of thesemore » three methods of sample preparation when they are applied for cell wall staining and cell wall immunomicroscopy. In order to help the plant community in understanding and selecting adequate methods of embedding and sectioning for cell wall immunodetection, we review in this article the advantages and limitations of these three methods. Moreover, we offer detailed protocols of embedding for studying plant materials through microscopy.« less

A Comparative Study of Sample Preparation for Staining and Immunodetection of Plant Cell Walls by Light Microscopy

PubMed Central

Verhertbruggen, Yves; Walker, Jesse L.; Guillon, Fabienne; Scheller, Henrik V.

2017-01-01

Staining and immunodetection by light microscopy are methods widely used to investigate plant cell walls. The two techniques have been crucial to study the cell wall architecture in planta, its deconstruction by chemicals or cell wall-degrading enzymes. They have been instrumental in detecting the presence of cell types, in deciphering plant cell wall evolution and in characterizing plant mutants and transformants. The success of immunolabeling relies on how plant materials are embedded and sectioned. Agarose coating, wax and resin embedding are, respectively, associated with vibratome, microtome and ultramicrotome sectioning. Here, we have systematically carried out a comparative analysis of these three methods of sample preparation when they are applied for cell wall staining and cell wall immunomicroscopy. In order to help the plant community in understanding and selecting adequate methods of embedding and sectioning for cell wall immunodetection, we review in this article the advantages and limitations of these three methods. Moreover, we offer detailed protocols of embedding for studying plant materials through microscopy. PMID:28900439

Wearable Electronics of Silver-Nanowire/Poly(dimethylsiloxane) Nanocomposite for Smart Clothing.

PubMed

Huang, Gui-Wen; Xiao, Hong-Mei; Fu, Shao-Yun

2015-09-24

Wearable electronics used in smart clothing for healthcare monitoring or personalized identification is a new and fast-growing research topic. The challenge is that the electronics has to be simultaneously highly stretchable, mechanically robust and water-washable, which is unreachable for traditional electronics or previously reported stretchable electronics. Herein we report the wearable electronics of sliver nanowire (Ag-NW)/poly(dimethylsiloxane) (PDMS) nanocomposite which can meet the above multiple requirements. The electronics of Ag-NW/PDMS nanocomposite films is successfully fabricated by an original pre-straining and post-embedding (PSPE) process. The composite film shows a very high conductivity of 1.52 × 10(4) S cm(-1) and an excellent electrical stability with a small resistance fluctuation under a large stretching strain. Meanwhile, it shows a robust adhesion between the Ag-NWs and the PDMS substrate and can be directly machine-washed. These advantages make it a competitive candidate as wearable electronics for smart clothing applications.

Electron-beam irradiation induced transformation of Cu2(OH)3NO3 nanoflakes into nanocrystalline CuO

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Padhi, S. K.; Gottapu, S. N.; Krishna, M. Ghanashyam

2016-05-01

The transmission electron microscope electron-beam (TEM e-beam) as a material modification tool has been demonstrated. The material modification is realised in the high-resolution TEM mode (largest condenser aperture, 150 μm, and 200 nm spot size) at a 200 keV beam energy. The Cu2(OH)3NO3 (CHN) nanoflakes used in this study were microwave solution processed that were layered single crystals and radiation sensitive. The single domain CHN flakes disintegrate into a large number of individual CuO crystallites within a 90 s span of time. The sequential bright-field, dark-field, and selected area electron diffraction modes were employed to record the evolved morphology, microstructural changes, and structural transformation that validate CHN modification. High-resolution transmission electron microscopy imaging of e-beam irradiated regions unambiguously supports the growth of CuO nanoparticles (11.8(3.2) nm in diameter). This study demonstrates e-beam irradiation induced CHN depletion, subsequent nucleation and growth of nanocrystalline CuO regions well embedded in the parent burnt porous matrix which can be useful for miniaturized sensing applications. NaBH4 induced room temperature reduction of CHN to elemental Cu and its printability on paper was also demonstrated.The transmission electron microscope electron-beam (TEM e-beam) as a material modification tool has been demonstrated. The material modification is realised in the high-resolution TEM mode (largest condenser aperture, 150 μm, and 200 nm spot size) at a 200 keV beam energy. The Cu2(OH)3NO3 (CHN) nanoflakes used in this study were microwave solution processed that were layered single crystals and radiation sensitive. The single domain CHN flakes disintegrate into a large number of individual CuO crystallites within a 90 s span of time. The sequential bright-field, dark-field, and selected area electron diffraction modes were employed to record the evolved morphology, microstructural changes, and structural transformation that validate CHN modification. High-resolution transmission electron microscopy imaging of e-beam irradiated regions unambiguously supports the growth of CuO nanoparticles (11.8(3.2) nm in diameter). This study demonstrates e-beam irradiation induced CHN depletion, subsequent nucleation and growth of nanocrystalline CuO regions well embedded in the parent burnt porous matrix which can be useful for miniaturized sensing applications. NaBH4 induced room temperature reduction of CHN to elemental Cu and its printability on paper was also demonstrated. Electronic supplementary information (ESI) available. See DOI: 10.1039/c6nr02572b

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.

Structure of a Complete Mediator-RNA Polymerase II Pre-Initiation Complex.

PubMed

Robinson, Philip J; Trnka, Michael J; Bushnell, David A; Davis, Ralph E; Mattei, Pierre-Jean; Burlingame, Alma L; Kornberg, Roger D

2016-09-08

A complete, 52-protein, 2.5 million dalton, Mediator-RNA polymerase II pre-initiation complex (Med-PIC) was assembled and analyzed by cryo-electron microscopy and by chemical cross-linking and mass spectrometry. The resulting complete Med-PIC structure reveals two components of functional significance, absent from previous structures, a protein kinase complex and the Mediator-activator interaction region. It thereby shows how the kinase and its target, the C-terminal domain of the polymerase, control Med-PIC interaction and transcription. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Optimization of a Histopathological Biomarker for Sphingomyelin Accumulation in Acid Sphingomyelinase Deficiency

PubMed Central

Johnson, Jennifer; Maloney, Colleen L.; Yandl, Emily; Griffiths, Denise; Thurberg, Beth L.; Ryan, Susan

2012-01-01

Niemann-Pick disease (types A and B), or acid sphingomyelinase deficiency, is an inherited deficiency of acid sphingomyelinase, resulting in intralysosomal accumulation of sphingomyelin in cells throughout the body, particularly within those of the reticuloendothelial system. These cellular changes result in hepatosplenomegaly and pulmonary infiltrates in humans. A knockout mouse model mimics many elements of human ASMD and is useful for studying disease histopathology. However, traditional formalin-fixation and paraffin embedding of ASMD tissues dissolves sphingomyelin, resulting in tissues with a foamy cell appearance, making quantitative analysis of the substrate difficult. To optimize substrate fixation and staining, a modified osmium tetroxide and potassium dichromate postfixation method was developed to preserve sphingomyelin in epon-araldite embedded tissue and pulmonary cytology specimens. After processing, semi-thin sections were incubated with tannic acid solution followed by staining with toluidine blue/borax. This modified method provides excellent preservation and staining contrast of sphingomyelin with other cell structures. The resulting high-resolution light microscopy sections permit digital quantification of sphingomyelin in light microscopic fields. A lysenin affinity stain for sphingomyelin was also developed for use on these semi-thin epon sections. Finally, ultrathin serial sections can be cut from these same tissue blocks and stained for ultrastructural examination by electron microscopy. PMID:22614361

Enhanced stress corrosion cracking resistance and electrical conductivity of a T761 treated Al-Zn-Mg-Cu alloy thin plate

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Xu; Zhai, Sudan; Gao, Di; Liu, Ye; Xu, Jing; Liu, Yang

2018-01-01

The stress corrosion cracking (SCC) behavior, electrical conductivity and mechanical properties of an Al-Zn-Mg-Cu alloy pre-stretched thin plate for wing skin were researched in this paper. The microstructures and SCC fracture surfaces of the alloy treated at different conditions were characterized by transmission electron microscopy, optical microscopy and scanning electron microscopy. Results indicated that with the increasing of aging temperature, the electrical conductivity and the elongation increased greatly, while the strength decreased gradually which were closely associated with the type and morphology of the precipitates. Compared with the T6 treated alloy, the SCC resistance of the T761 treated Al-Zn-Mg-Cu alloy was improved greatly. The SCC behavior of the T6 treated alloy was dominated by anodic dissolution theory, whereas the hydrogen induced cracking controlled the fracture behavior of the T761 treated alloy which was influenced by the morphology of grain boundary precipitates in this investigated alloy.

Evidence of van Hove singularities in ordered grain boundaries of graphene.

PubMed

Ma, Chuanxu; Sun, Haifeng; Zhao, Yeliang; Li, Bin; Li, Qunxiang; Zhao, Aidi; Wang, Xiaoping; Luo, Yi; Yang, Jinlong; Wang, Bing; Hou, J G

2014-06-06

It has long been under debate whether the electron transport performance of graphene could be enhanced by the possible occurrence of van Hove singularities in grain boundaries. Here, we provide direct experimental evidence to confirm the existence of van Hove singularity states close to the Fermi energy in certain ordered grain boundaries using scanning tunneling microscopy. The intrinsic atomic and electronic structures of two ordered grain boundaries, one with alternative pentagon and heptagon rings and the other with alternative pentagon pair and octagon rings, are determined. It is firmly verified that the carrier concentration and, thus, the conductance around ordered grain boundaries can be significantly enhanced by the van Hove singularity states. This finding strongly suggests that a graphene nanoribbon with a properly embedded ordered grain boundary can be a promising structure to improve the performance of graphene-based electronic devices.

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

Luce, F. P.; Azevedo, G. de M.; Baptista, D. L.

The formation and time resolved behavior of individual Pb nanoparticles embedded in silica have been studied by in-situ transmission electron microscopy observations at high temperatures (400–1100 °C) and under 200 keV electron irradiation. It is shown that under such extreme conditions, nanoparticles can migrate at long distances presenting a Brownian-like behavior and eventually coalesce. The particle migration phenomenon is discussed considering the influence of the thermal energy and the electron irradiation effects on the atomic diffusion process which is shown to control particle migration. These results and comparison with ex-situ experiments tackle the stability and the microstructure evolution of nanoparticles systems undermore » extreme conditions. It elucidates on the effects of energetic particle irradiation-annealing treatments either as a tool or as a detrimental issue that could hamper their long-term applications in radiation-harsh environments such as in space or nuclear sectors.« less

Electron tomography of whole cultured cells using novel transmission electron imaging technique.

PubMed

Okumura, Taiga; Shoji, Minami; Hisada, Akiko; Ominami, Yusuke; Ito, Sukehiro; Ushiki, Tatsuo; Nakajima, Masato; Ohshima, Takashi

2018-01-01

Since a three-dimensional (3D) cellular ultrastructure is significant for biological functions, it has been investigated using various electron microscopic techniques. Although transmission electron microscopy (TEM)-based techniques are traditionally used, cells must be embedded in resin and sliced into ultrathin sections in sample preparation processes. Block-face observation using a scanning electron microscope (SEM) has also been recently applied to 3D observation of cellular components, but this is a destructive inspection and does not allow re-examination. Therefore, we developed electron tomography using a transmission electron imaging technique called Plate-TEM. With Plate-TEM, the cells cultured directly on a scintillator plate are inserted into a conventional SEM equipped with a Plate-TEM observation system, and their internal structures are observed by detecting scintillation light produced by electrons passing through the cells. This technology has the following four advantages. First, the cells cultured on the plate can be observed at electron-microscopic resolution since they remain on the plate. Second, both surface and internal information can be obtained simultaneously by using electron- and photo-detectors, respectively, because a Plate-TEM detector is installed in an SEM. Third, the cells on the scintillator plate can also be inspected using light microscopy because the plate has transparent features. Finally, correlative observation with other techniques, such as conventional TEM, is possible after Plate-TEM observation because Plate-TEM is a non-destructive analysis technique. We also designed a sample stage to tilt the samples for tomography with Plate-TEM, by which 3D organization of cellular structures can be visualized as a whole cell. In the present study, Mm2T cells were investigated using our tomography system, resulting in 3D visualization of cell organelles such as mitochondria, lipid droplets, and microvilli. Correlative observations with various imaging techniques were also conducted by successive observations with light microscopy, SEM, Plate-TEM, and conventional TEM. Consequently, the Plate-TEM tomography technique encourages understanding of cellular structures at high resolution, which can contribute to cellular biological research. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Preparation and characterization of nanocomposite polyvinyl chloride films with NO-generating activity

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kozakevych, Roman B.; Korobeinyk, Alina V.; Bolbukh, Yulia M.; Tertykh, Valentin A.; Mikhalovska, Lyuba I.; Zienkiewicz-Strzałka, Malgorzlata; Deryło-Marczewska, Anna

2018-03-01

The silica and copper oxide nanoparticles were embedded into the polyvinyl chloride film and obtained filled composites were tested as a catalyst in the reaction of the NO release from appropriate biomolecules. Obtained materials were characterized using scanning electron, atomic-force microscopies and thermomechanical analysis. It has been shown that the introduced particles are distributed uniformly in the polymeric matrix of hybrid composite and such film produces a significant amount of NO when reacts with S-nitrosothiols. At the same time, the unfilled polyvinyl chloride film had no statistically significant catalytic activity.

Joining of graphene flakes by low energy N ion beam irradiation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wu, Xin; Zhao, Haiyan; Pei, Jiayun; Yan, Dong

2017-03-01

An approach utilizing low energy N ion beam irradiation is applied in joining two monolayer graphene flakes. Raman spectrometry and atomic force microscopy show the joining signal under 40 eV and 1 × 1014 cm-2 N ion irradiation. Molecular dynamics simulations demonstrate that the joining phenomenon is attributed to the punch-down effect and the subsequent chemical bond generation between the two sheets. The generated chemical bonds are made up of inserted ions (embedded joining) and knocked-out carbon atoms (saturation joining). The electronic transport properties of the joint are also calculated for its applications.

Ionic liquid-templated preparation of mesoporous silica embedded with nanocrystalline sulfated zirconia

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ward, Antony J.; Pujari, Ajit A.; Costanzo, Lorenzo; Masters, Anthony F.; Maschmeyer, Thomas

2011-12-01

A series of mesoporous silicas impregnated with nanocrystalline sulphated zirconia was prepared by a sol-gel process using an ionic liquid-templated route. The physicochemical properties of the mesoporous sulphated zirconia materials were studied using characterisation techniques such as inductively coupled optical emission spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, energy-dispersive X-ray microanalysis, elemental analysis and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. Analysis of the new silicas indicates isomorphous substitution of silicon with zirconium and reveals the presence of extremely small (< 10 nm) polydispersed zirconia nanoparticles in the materials with zirconium loadings from 27.77 to 41.4 wt.%.

Fracture modes in notched angleplied composite laminates

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Irvine, T. B.; Ginty, C. A.

1984-01-01

The Composite Durability Structural Analysis (CODSTRAN) computer code is used to determine composite fracture. Fracture modes in solid and notched, unidirectional and angleplied graphite/epoxy composites were determined by using CODSTRAN. Experimental verification included both nondestructive (ultrasonic C-Scanning) and destructive (scanning electron microscopy) techniques. The fracture modes were found to be a function of ply orientations and whether the composite is notched or unnotched. Delaminations caused by stress concentrations around notch tips were also determined. Results indicate that the composite mechanics, structural analysis, laminate analysis, and fracture criteria modules embedded in CODSTRAN are valid for determining composite fracture modes.

When will Low-Contrast Features be Visible in a STEM X-Ray Spectrum Image?

PubMed

Parish, Chad M

2015-06-01

When will a small or low-contrast feature, such as an embedded second-phase particle, be visible in a scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM) X-ray map? This work illustrates a computationally inexpensive method to simulate X-ray maps and spectrum images (SIs), based upon the equations of X-ray generation and detection. To particularize the general procedure, an example of nanostructured ferritic alloy (NFA) containing nm-sized Y2Ti2O7 embedded precipitates in ferritic stainless steel matrix is chosen. The proposed model produces physically appearing simulated SI data sets, which can either be reduced to X-ray dot maps or analyzed via multivariate statistical analysis. Comparison to NFA X-ray maps acquired using three different STEM instruments match the generated simulations quite well, despite the large number of simplifying assumptions used. A figure of merit of electron dose multiplied by X-ray collection solid angle is proposed to compare feature detectability from one data set (simulated or experimental) to another. The proposed method can scope experiments that are feasible under specific analysis conditions on a given microscope. Future applications, such as spallation proton-neutron irradiations, core-shell nanoparticles, or dopants in polycrystalline photovoltaic solar cells, are proposed.

Antimicrobial fabrication of cotton fabric and leather using green-synthesized nanosilver.

PubMed

Velmurugan, Palanivel; Cho, Min; Lee, Sang-Myeong; Park, Jung-Hee; Bae, Sunyoung; Oh, Byung-Taek

2014-06-15

This study aims to investigate the green synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) by Erigeron annuus (L.) pers flower extract as reducing and capping agent, and evaluation of their antibacterial activities for the first time. The obtained product was confirmed by UV-Vis spectrum, high resolution-transmission electron microscopy, energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and X-ray diffraction studies. The optimum AgNPs production was achieved at pH 7, metal silver (Ag(+) ion) concentration of 2.0mM, flower extract concentration 4%, and time 335 min. In addition, the antibacterial activity of cotton fabrics and tanned leather loaded with AgNPs, commercial AgNPs, flower extract, Ag(+) ion and blend of flower extract with AgNPs were evaluated against Gram-positive odor causing bacteria Brevibacterium linens and Staphylococcus epidermidis. The results showed maximum zone of inhibition (ZOI) by the cotton fabrics embedded with blend of flower extract and AgNPs against B. linens. The structure and morphology of cotton fabric and leather samples embedded with AgNPs, Ag(+) ion and blend of flower extract with AgNPs were examined under field emission scanning electron microscope. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

The Formation, Transport Properties and Microstructure of 45 Degrees (001) Tilt Grain Boundaries in Yttrium BARIUM(2) COPPER(3) OXYGEN(7-X) Thin Films

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vuchic, Boris Vukan

1995-01-01

Most high angle grain boundaries in high-T _{c} superconductors exhibit weak link behavior. The Josephson-like properties of these grain boundaries can be used for many device applications such as superconducting quantum interference devices (SQUIDs). The structure-property relationship of different types of 45 ^circ (001) YBa_2 Cu_3O_{7-x} thin film grain boundary junctions are examined to study their weak link nature. A technique, termed sputter-induced epitaxy, is developed to form 45^circ (001) tilt grain boundaries in YBa_2Cu _3O_{7-x} thin films on (100) MgO substrates. A low voltage ion bombardment pre-growth substrate treatment is used to modify the epitaxial orientation relationship between the thin film and the substrate in selected regions. By modifying the orientation of the thin film, grain boundary junctions can be placed in any configuration on the substrate. A variety of pre-growth sputtering conditions in conjunction with atomic force microscopy and Rutherford backscatter spectrometry are used to determine the role of the ions in modifying the substrate surface. Sputter-induced epitaxy is extended to a multilayer MgO/LaAlO_3 substrate, allowing integration of the sputter -induced epitaxy junctions into multilayer structures. The low temperature transport properties of the sputter-induced epitaxy junctions and a set of bi-epitaxial grain boundaries are studied. Individual grain boundaries are isolated and characterized for resistance vs. temperature, current vs. voltage as a function of temperature and magnetic field behavior. Resistive and superconducting grain boundaries are compared. Microstructural analysis is performed using scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy and high resolution electron microscopy (HREM). Marked differences are observed in the microstructure of resistive and superconducting grain boundaries. HREM studies suggest the importance of the local atomic scale structure of the grain boundary in transport properties. A phenomenological grain boundary model is proposed to describe the structure -property relationship of the boundaries.

Ultrastructure, Histochemistry, and Mineralization Patterns in the Ecdysial Suture of the Blue Crab, Callinectes sapidus

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Priester, Carolina; Dillaman, Richard M.; Gay, D. Mark

2005-12-01

The ecdysial suture is the region of the arthropod exoskeleton that splits to allow the animal to emerge during ecdysis. We examined the morphology and composition of the intermolt and premolt suture of the blue crab using light microscopy and scanning electron microscopy. The suture could not be identified by routine histological techniques; however 3 of 22 fluorescein isothiocyanate-labeled lectins tested (Lens culinaris agglutinin, Vicia faba agglutinin, and Pisum sativum agglutinin) differentiated the suture, binding more intensely to the suture exocuticle and less intensely to the suture endocuticle. Back-scattered electron (BSE) and secondary electron observations of fracture surfaces of intermolt cuticle showed less mineralized regions in the wedge-shaped suture as did BSE analysis of premolt and intermolt resin-embedded cuticle. The prism regions of the suture exocuticle were not calcified. X-ray microanalysis of both the endocuticle and exocuticle demonstrated that the suture was less calcified than the surrounding cuticle with significantly lower magnesium and phosphorus concentrations, potentially making its mineral more soluble. The presence or absence of a glycoprotein in the organic matrix, the extent and composition of the mineral deposited, and the thickness of the cuticle all likely contribute to the suture being removed by molting fluid, thereby ensuring successful ecdysis.

Imaging of bacterial multicellular behaviour in biofilms in liquid by atmospheric scanning electron microscopy

PubMed Central

Sugimoto, Shinya; Okuda, Ken-ichi; Miyakawa, Reina; Sato, Mari; Arita-Morioka, Ken-ichi; Chiba, Akio; Yamanaka, Kunitoshi; Ogura, Teru; Mizunoe, Yoshimitsu; Sato, Chikara

2016-01-01

Biofilms are complex communities of microbes that attach to biotic or abiotic surfaces causing chronic infectious diseases. Within a biofilm, microbes are embedded in a self-produced soft extracellular matrix (ECM), which protects them from the host immune system and antibiotics. The nanoscale visualisation of delicate biofilms in liquid is challenging. Here, we develop atmospheric scanning electron microscopy (ASEM) to visualise Gram-positive and -negative bacterial biofilms immersed in aqueous solution. Biofilms cultured on electron-transparent film were directly imaged from below using the inverted SEM, allowing the formation of the region near the substrate to be studied at high resolution. We visualised intercellular nanostructures and the exocytosis of membrane vesicles, and linked the latter to the trafficking of cargos, including cytoplasmic proteins and the toxins hemolysin and coagulase. A thick dendritic nanotube network was observed between microbes, suggesting multicellular communication in biofilms. A universal immuno-labelling system was developed for biofilms and tested on various examples, including S. aureus biofilms. In the ECM, fine DNA and protein networks were visualised and the precise distribution of protein complexes was determined (e.g., straight curli, flagella, and excreted cytoplasmic molecular chaperones). Our observations provide structural insights into bacteria-substratum interactions, biofilm development and the internal microbe community. PMID:27180609

Combinatorial study of low-refractive Mg-F-Si-O nano-composites deposited by magnetron co-sputtering from compound targets

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mertin, Stefan; Länzlinger, Tony; Sandu, Cosmin S.; Scartezzini, Jean-Louis; Muralt, Paul

2018-03-01

Deposition of nano-composite Mg-F-Si-O films on optical grade silica glass was studied employing RF magnetron co-sputtering from magnesium fluoride (MgF2) and fused silica (SiO2) targets. The aim was to obtain a stable and reliable sputtering process for optical coatings exhibiting a refractive index lower than the one of quartz glass (1.46 at 550 nm) without adding gaseous fluorine to the deposition process. The two magnetrons were installed in a confocal way at 45° off-axis with respect to a static substrate, thus creating a lateral gradient in the thin-film composition. The deposited Mg-F-Si-O coatings were structurally analysed by electron dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The obtained films consist of MgF2 nanocrystals embedded in a SiO2-rich amorphous matrix. Spectroscopic ellipsometry and spectrophotometry measurements showed that they are highly transparent exhibiting a very-low extinction coefficient k and a refractive index n in the desired range between the one of MgF2 (1.38) and SiO2 (1.46). Films with n = 1.424 and 1.435 at 550 nm were accomplished with absorption below the detection threshold.

Assembly and microscopic characterization of DNA origami structures.

PubMed

Scheible, Max; Jungmann, Ralf; Simmel, Friedrich C

2012-01-01

DNA origami is a revolutionary method for the assembly of molecular nanostructures from DNA with precisely defined dimensions and with an unprecedented yield. This can be utilized to arrange nanoscale components such as proteins or nanoparticles into pre-defined patterns. For applications it will now be of interest to arrange such components into functional complexes and study their geometry-dependent interactions. While commonly DNA nanostructures are characterized by atomic force microscopy or electron microscopy, these techniques often lack the time-resolution to study dynamic processes. It is therefore of considerable interest to also apply fluorescence microscopic techniques to DNA nanostructures. Of particular importance here is the utilization of novel super-resolved microscopy methods that enable imaging beyond the classical diffraction limit.

Supramolecular assemblies of a nitrogen-embedded buckybowl dimer with C60† †Electronic supplementary information (ESI) available. CCDC 1579079 and 1579080. For ESI and crystallographic data in CIF or other electronic format see DOI: 10.1039/c7sc04453d

PubMed Central

Yokoi, Hiroki; Sakamaki, Daisuke; Seki, Shu

2017-01-01

A directly connected azabuckybowl dimer was synthesized via a palladium-catalysed C–H/C–Br coupling. The electron-donating nature of the pyrrolic nitrogen atoms of the azabuckybowl enabled a strong complexation with pristine C60. In the presence of two equivalents of C60, the azabuckybowl dimer formed crystals with a 1 : 2 stoichiometry. Conversely, in diluted solution, complexes with a 1 : 1 stoichiometry of the dimer and C60 were detected predominantly, and these precipitated upon increasing the concentration of C60. Scanning electron microscopy images of the precipitate showed fibre-like aggregates, indicating the formation of supramolecular assemblies with 1D chain structures. A variable-temperature 1H NMR analysis revealed that the precipitate consists of the dimer and C60 in a 1 : 1 ratio. PMID:29629149

Scanning electron microscopy study of the effect of the brushing time on the human tooth dentin after exposure to acidic softdrinks.

PubMed

Kwoni, Eri; Choi, Samjin; Cheong, Youjin; Park, Ki-Ho; Park, Hun-Kuk

2012-07-01

Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used to examine the abrasive and erosive potential of the brushing time on the dentin surface eroded by acidic soft drinks to suggest an optimized toothbrushing start time after the consumption of cola (pH 2.52) in children. Thirty-six non-carious primary central incisors were assigned to 12 experimental groups (n = 3) based on the erosive and abrasive treatment protocols. Cola exposure was used as the erosive treatment. Three brushing durations (5, 15, and 30 sec) and four brushing start times (immediately, 30 min, 60 min, and 120 min) after an erosive pre-treatment were used for the abrasive treatment. Toothbrushing after exposure to acidic soft drinks led to an increase in the open-tubule fraction and microstructural changes. Toothbrushing immediately after the erosive pre-treatment showed the largest abrasive and erosive potential on the dentin whereas that 60 and 120 min after the pre-treatment showed the least abrasive and erosive potential on the dentin. Toothbrushing for both 60 and 120 min after the pre-treatment showed similar erosive and abrasive potentials on the dentin. The brushing duration showed no effect on the erosive and abrasive potential on the dentin. Therefore, to achieve the desired tooth surface cleaning and less surface lesion on the dentin surface, toothbrushing should be performed at least 1 hour after cola consumption. Three-minute brushing after cola consumption is sufficient to prevent dental lesions, and prolonged brushing can irritate the gingival tissues.

Stress transfer in microdroplet tensile test: PVC-coated and uncoated Kevlar-29 single fiber

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhenkun, Lei; Quan, Wang; Yilan, Kang; Wei, Qiu; Xuemin, Pan

2010-11-01

The single fiber/microdroplet tensile test is applied for evaluating the interfacial mechanics between a fiber and a resin substrate. It is used to investigate the influence of a polymer coating on a Kevlar-29 fiber surface, specifically the stress transfer between the fiber and epoxy resin in a microdroplet. Unlike usual tests, this new test ensures a symmetrical axial stress on the embedded fiber and reduces the stress singularity that appears at the embedded fiber entry. Using a homemade loading device, symmetrical tensile tests are performed on a Kevlar-29 fiber with or without polyvinylchloride (PVC) coating, the surface of which is in contact with two epoxy resin microdroplets during curing. Raman spectra on the embedded fiber are recorded by micro-Raman Spectroscopy under different strain levels. Then they are transformed to the distributions of fiber axis stress based on the relationship between stress and Raman shift. The Raman results reveal that the fiber axial stresses increase with the applied loads, and the antisymmetric interfacial shear stresses, obtained by a straightforward balance of shear-to-axial forces argument, lead to the appearance of shear stress concentrations at a distance to the embedded fiber entry. The load is transferred from the outer fiber to the embedded fiber in the epoxy microdroplet. As is observed by scanning electronic microscopy (SEM), the existence of a flexible polymer coating on the fiber surface reduces the stress transfer efficiency.

The effect of plasma pre-treatment on NaHCO3 desizing of blended sizes on cotton fabrics

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Xuming; Qiu, Yiping

2012-03-01

The influence of the He/O2 atmospheric pressure plasma jet pre-treatment on subsequent NaHCO3 desizing of blends of starch phosphate and poly(vinyl alcohol) on cotton fabrics is investigated. Atomic force microscopy and scanning electron microscopy analysis indicate that the surface topography of the samples has significantly changed and the surface roughness increases with an increase in plasma exposure time. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy analysis shows that a larger number of oxygen-containing polar groups are formed on the sized fabric surface after the plasma treatment. The results of the percent desizing ratio (PDR) indicate that the plasma pretreatment facilitated the blended sizes removal from the cotton fabrics in subsequent NaHCO3 treatment and the PDR increases with prolonging plasma treatment time. The plasma technology is a promising pretreatment for desizing of blended sizes due to dramatically reduced desizing time.

Supporting nurse preceptors through online continuing education.

PubMed

Zahner, Susan J; Tipple, Susan M; Rather, Marsha L; Schendzielos, Christine

2009-10-01

A pilot study was conducted to assess the feasibility of using an online continuing education course to increase knowledge and self-efficacy in nurse preceptors who work with student nurses in acute and primary care settings. A one-group pre- and posttest repeated measures design was used. Pre-course knowledge and self-efficacy were assessed with an electronic survey. Post-course knowledge and satisfaction assessments were embedded in the course. Knowledge retention and change in self-efficacy were assessed with an electronic follow-up survey. Analysis used paired sample t tests. Participants (N = 13) reported satisfaction with the course. Participant knowledge increased from pretest to post-course and from pretest to follow-up. Knowledge declined from post-course to follow-up. No change in self-efficacy ratings was observed. This study suggests that online continuing education is a feasible strategy to support preceptor learning. Further research on the effectiveness of this approach in changing and retaining knowledge and improving self-efficacy is needed. Copyright 2009, SLACK Incorporated.

Application of gamma-ray radiography and gravimetric measurements after accelerated corrosion tests of steel embedded in mortar

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

Duffó, Gustavo, E-mail: duffo@cnea.gov.ar; Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas; Universidad Nacional de San Martín, Av. Gral. Paz 1499, 1650 San Martín, Buenos Aires

2015-08-15

The accelerated corrosion by the impressed current technique is widely used in studies of concrete durability since it has the advantage that tests can be carried out within reasonable periods of time. In the present work the relationship between the applied current density and the resulting damage on the reinforcing steel, by applying optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, gamma-ray radiography and gravimetric measurements, was studied by means of the implementation of accelerated corrosion tests on reinforced mortar. The results show that the efficiency of the applied current is between 1 and 77%, regardless of the applied current density, the water/cementmore » ratio and the mortar cover depth of the specimens. The results show the applicability of the gamma-ray radiography technique to detect localized corrosion of steel rebars in laboratory specimens.« less

Characterization of dislocation structures and deformation mechanisms in as-grown and deformed directionally solidified NiAl–Mo composites

DOE PAGES

Kwon, J.; Bowers, M. L.; Brandes, M. C.; ...

2015-02-26

In this paper, directionally solidified (DS) NiAl–Mo eutectic composites were strained to plastic strain values ranging from 0% to 12% to investigate the origin of the previously observed stochastic versus deterministic mechanical behaviors of Mo-alloy micropillars in terms of the development of dislocation structures at different pre-strain levels. The DS composites consist of long, [1 0 0] single-crystal Mo-alloy fibers with approximately square cross-sections embedded in a [1 0 0] single-crystal NiAl matrix. Scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM) and computational stress state analysis were conducted for the current study. STEM of the as-grown samples (without pre-straining) reveal no dislocations inmore » the investigated Mo-alloy fibers. In the NiAl matrix, on the other hand, a(1 0 0)-type dislocations exist in two orthogonal orientations: along the [1 0 0] Mo fiber axis, and wrapped around the fiber axis. They presumably form to accommodate the different thermal contractions of the two phases during cool down after eutectic solidification. At intermediate pre-strain levels (4–8%), a/2(1 1 1)-type dislocations are present in the Mo-alloy fibers and the pre-existing dislocations in the NiAl matrix seem to be swept toward the interphase boundary. Some of the dislocations in the Mo-alloy fibers appear to be transformed from a(1 0 0)-type dislocations present in the NiAl matrix. Subsequently, the transformed dislocations in the fibers propagate through the NiAl matrix as a(1 1 1) dislocations and aid in initiating additional slip bands in adjacent fibers. Thereafter, co-deformation presumably occurs by (1 1 1) slip in both phases. With a further increase in the pre-strain level (>10%), multiple a/2(1 1 1)-type dislocations are observed in many locations in the Mo-alloy fibers. Interactions between these systems upon subsequent deformation could lead to stable junctions and persistent dislocation sources. Finally, the transition from stochastic to deterministic, bulk-like behavior in sub-micron Mo-alloy pillars may therefore be related to an increasing number of multiple a(1 1 1) dislocation systems within the Mo fibers with increasing pre-strain, considering that the bulk-like behavior is governed by the forest hardening of these junctions.« less

Zero-valent iron particles embedded on the mesoporous silica-carbon for chromium (VI) removal from aqueous solution

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xiong, Kun; Gao, Yuan; Zhou, Lin; Zhang, Xianming

2016-09-01

Nanoscale zero-valent iron (nZVI) particles were embedded on the walls of mesoporous silica-carbon (MSC) under the conditions of high-temperature carbonization and reduction and used to remove chromium (VI) from aqueous solution. The structure and textural properties of nZVI-MSC were characterized by the powder X-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy and N2 adsorption and desorption. The results show that nZVI-MSC has highly ordered mesoporous structure and large surface area, indistinguishable with that of MSC. Compared with the support MSC and iron particles supported on the activated carbon (nZVI/AC), nZVI-MSC exhibited much higher Cr(VI) removal efficiency with about 98 %. The removal process obeys a pseudo first-order model. Such excellent performance of nZVI-MSC could be ascribed to the large surface and iron particles embedded on the walls of the MSC, forming an intimate contact with the MSC. It is proposed that this feature might create certain micro-electrode on the interface of iron particles and MSC, which prevented the formation of metal oxide on the surface and provided fresh Fe surface for Cr(VI) removal.

Selective removal of organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) from aqueous solution by triolein-embedded composite adsorbent.

PubMed

Ru, J; Liu, H J; Qu, J H; Wang, A M; Dai, R H; Wang, Z J

2007-01-01

A novel composite adsorbent (CA-T) was used for the selective removal of organochlorine pesticides (OCPs) from aqueous solution. The adsorbent was composed of the supporting activated carbon and the surrounding triolein-embedded cellulose acetate membrane. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), N2 adsorption isotherms and fluorescence methods were used to characterize the physicochemical properties of CA-T. Triolein was perfectly embedded in the cellulose acetate membrane and deposited on the surface of activated carbon. The adsorbent was stable in water and no triolein leakage was detected during the test periods. Some organochlorine pesticides (OCPs), such as dieldrin, endrin, aldrin, and heptachlor epoxide, were used as model contaminants and removed by CA-T in laboratory batch experiments. The adsorption isotherm followed the Freundlich equation and the kinetic data fitted well to the pseudo-second-order reaction model. Results also indicated that CA-T appeared to be a promising adsorbent with good selectivity and satisfactory removal rate for lipophilic OCPs from aqueous solutions when present in trace amounts. The adsorption rate and removal efficiency for lipophilic OCPs were positively related to their octanol-water partition coefficients (log K(ow)). Lower residual concentrations of OCPs were achieved when compared to granular activated carbon (GAC).

Composite cryogels for lysozyme purification.

PubMed

Baydemir, Gözde; Türkoğlu, Emir Alper; Andaç, Müge; Perçin, Işık; Denizli, Adil

2015-01-01

Beads-embedded novel composite cryogel was synthesized to purify lysozyme (Lyz) from chicken egg white. The poly(hydroxyethyl methacrylate-N-methacryloyl-L-phenylalanine) (PHEMAPA) beads of smaller than 5 µm size were synthesized by suspension polymerization and then embedded into a poly(hydroxyethyl methacrylate) (PHEMA)-based cryogel column. The PHEMAPA bead-embedded cryogel (BEC) column was characterized by swelling tests, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), surface area measurements by the Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET) method, elemental analysis, and flow dynamics. The specific surface area of the PHEMAPA BEC was found as 41.2 m(2) /g using BET measurements. Lyz-binding experiments were performed using aqueous solutions in different conditions such as initial Lyz concentration, pH, flow rate, temperature, and NaCl concentration of an aqueous medium. The PHEMAPA BEC column could be used after 10 adsorption-desorption studies without any significant loss in adsorption capacity of Lyz. The PHEMAPA BEC column was used to purify Lyz from chicken egg white, and gel electrophoresis was used to estimate the purity of Lyz. The chromatographic application of the PHEMAPA BEC column was also performed using fast protein liquid chromatography. © 2014 International Union of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Inc.

Process depending morphology and resulting physical properties of TPU

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

Frick, Achim, E-mail: achim.frick@hs-aalen.de; Spadaro, Marcel, E-mail: marcel.spadaro@hs-aalen.de

2015-12-17

Thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) is a rubber like material with outstanding properties, e.g. for seal applications. TPU basically provides high strength, low frictional behavior and excellent wear resistance. Though, due to segmented structure of TPU, which is composed of hard segments (HSs) and soft segments (SSs), physical properties depend strongly on the morphological arrangement of the phase separated HSs at a certain ratio of HSs to SSs. It is obvious that the TPU deforms differently depending on its bulk morphology. Basically, the morphology can either consist of HSs segregated into small domains, which are well dispersed in the SS matrix ormore » of few strongly phase separated large size HS domains embedded in the SS matrix. The morphology development is hardly ruled by the melt processing conditions of the TPU. Depending on the morphology, TPU provides quite different physical properties with respect to strength, deformation behavior, thermal stability, creep resistance and tribological performance. The paper deals with the influence of important melt processing parameters, such as temperature, pressure and shear conditions, on the resulting physical properties tested by tensile and relaxation experiments. Furthermore the morphology is studied employing differential scanning calorimeter (DSC), transmission light microscopy (TLM), scanning electron beam microscopy (SEM) and transmission electron beam microscopy (TEM) investigations. Correlations between processing conditions and resulting TPU material properties are elaborated. Flow and shear simulations contribute to the understanding of thermal and flow induced morphology development.« less

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.

Cluster structure of anaerobic aggregates of an expanded granular sludge bed reactor.

PubMed

Gonzalez-Gil, G; Lens, P N; Van Aelst, A; Van As, H; Versprille, A I; Lettinga, G

2001-08-01

The metabolic properties and ultrastructure of mesophilic aggregates from a full-scale expanded granular sludge bed reactor treating brewery wastewater are described. The aggregates had a very high methanogenic activity on acetate (17.19 mmol of CH(4)/g of volatile suspended solids [VSS].day or 1.1 g of CH(4) chemical oxygen demand/g of VSS.day). Fluorescent in situ hybridization using 16S rRNA probes of crushed granules showed that 70 and 30% of the cells belonged to the archaebacterial and eubacterial domains, respectively. The spherical aggregates were black but contained numerous whitish spots on their surfaces. Cross-sectioning these aggregates revealed that the white spots appeared to be white clusters embedded in a black matrix. The white clusters were found to develop simultaneously with the increase in diameter. Energy-dispersed X-ray analysis and back-scattered electron microscopy showed that the whitish clusters contained mainly organic matter and no inorganic calcium precipitates. The white clusters had a higher density than the black matrix, as evidenced by the denser cell arrangement observed by high-magnification electron microscopy and the significantly higher effective diffusion coefficient determined by nuclear magnetic resonance imaging. High-magnification electron microscopy indicated a segregation of acetate-utilizing methanogens (Methanosaeta spp.) in the white clusters from syntrophic species and hydrogenotrophic methanogens (Methanobacterium-like and Methanospirillum-like organisms) in the black matrix. A number of physical and microbial ecology reasons for the observed structure are proposed, including the advantage of segregation for high-rate degradation of syntrophic substrates.

Cluster Structure of Anaerobic Aggregates of an Expanded Granular Sludge Bed Reactor

PubMed Central

Gonzalez-Gil, G.; Lens, P. N. L.; Van Aelst, A.; Van As, H.; Versprille, A. I.; Lettinga, G.

2001-01-01

The metabolic properties and ultrastructure of mesophilic aggregates from a full-scale expanded granular sludge bed reactor treating brewery wastewater are described. The aggregates had a very high methanogenic activity on acetate (17.19 mmol of CH4/g of volatile suspended solids [VSS]·day or 1.1 g of CH4 chemical oxygen demand/g of VSS·day). Fluorescent in situ hybridization using 16S rRNA probes of crushed granules showed that 70 and 30% of the cells belonged to the archaebacterial and eubacterial domains, respectively. The spherical aggregates were black but contained numerous whitish spots on their surfaces. Cross-sectioning these aggregates revealed that the white spots appeared to be white clusters embedded in a black matrix. The white clusters were found to develop simultaneously with the increase in diameter. Energy-dispersed X-ray analysis and back-scattered electron microscopy showed that the whitish clusters contained mainly organic matter and no inorganic calcium precipitates. The white clusters had a higher density than the black matrix, as evidenced by the denser cell arrangement observed by high-magnification electron microscopy and the significantly higher effective diffusion coefficient determined by nuclear magnetic resonance imaging. High-magnification electron microscopy indicated a segregation of acetate-utilizing methanogens (Methanosaeta spp.) in the white clusters from syntrophic species and hydrogenotrophic methanogens (Methanobacterium-like and Methanospirillum-like organisms) in the black matrix. A number of physical and microbial ecology reasons for the observed structure are proposed, including the advantage of segregation for high-rate degradation of syntrophic substrates. PMID:11472948

Structural and magnetic properties of nanostructured composites (SrFe12O19)x(CaCu3Ti4O12)1-x

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gavrilova, T. P.; Deeva, J. A.; Yatsyk, I. V.; Yagfarova, A. R.; Gilmutdinov, I. F.; Lyadov, N. M.; Milovich, F. O.; Chupakhina, T. I.; Eremina, R. M.

2018-05-01

(SrFe12O19)x(CaCu3Ti4O12)1-x (x = 0.01, 0.03, 0.07, 0.1) composites were synthesized using a solid state method, while the pre-synthesized strontium hexaferrite SrFe12O19 (SFO) was added to the stoichiometric amount of CaO, CuO and TiO oxides to form the CaCu3Ti4O12 (CCTO) structure around SFO microinclusions. The structural and microstructural properties of obtained composites were studied by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy techniques. The magnetic properties were studied by electron spin resonance and magnetometry methods. Based on all experimental data we can conclude, that SFOxCCTO1-x nanostructured composites were formed only for concentrations x = 0.03 and x = 0.07, where SFO nanoinclusions are inside CCTO matrix, that leads to the strong mutual influence of the magnetic properties of both component.

Ultrastructural identification of peripheral myelin proteins by a pre-embedding immunogold labeling method.

PubMed

Canron, Marie-Hélène; Bouillot, Sandrine; Favereaux, Alexandre; Petry, Klaus G; Vital, Anne

2003-03-01

Ultrastructural immunolabeling of peripheral nervous system components is an important tool to study the relation between structure and function. Owing to the scarcity of certain antigens and the dense structure of the peripheral nerve, a pre-embedding technique is likely appropriate. After several investigations on procedures for pre-embedding immunolabeling, we propose a method that offers a good compromise between detection of antigenic sites and preservation of morphology at the ultrastructural level, and that is easy to use and suitable for investigations on peripheral nerve biopsies from humans. Pre-fixation by immersion in paraformaldehyde/glutaraldehyde is necessary to stabilize the ultrastructure. Then, ultrasmall gold particles with silver enhancement are advised. Antibodies against myelin protein zero and myelin basic protein were chosen for demonstration. The same technique was applied to localize a 35 kDa myelin protein.

Cryo-electron microscopy and single molecule fluorescent microscopy detect CD4 receptor induced HIV size expansion prior to cell entry

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

Pham, Son; CSIRO Australian Animal Health Laboratory, Victoria 3220; Tabarin, Thibault

Viruses are often thought to have static structure, and they only remodel after the viruses have entered target cells. Here, we detected a size expansion of virus particles prior to viral entry using cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) and single molecule fluorescence imaging. HIV expanded both under cell-free conditions with soluble receptor CD4 (sCD4) targeting the CD4 binding site on the HIV-1 envelope protein (Env) and when HIV binds to receptor on cellular membrane. We have shown that the HIV Env is needed to facilitate receptor induced virus size expansions, showing that the ‘lynchpin’ for size expansion is highly specific. We demonstratemore » that the size expansion required maturation of HIV and an internal capsid core with wild type stability, suggesting that different HIV compartments are linked and are involved in remodelling. Our work reveals a previously unknown event in HIV entry, and we propose that this pre-entry priming process enables HIV particles to facilitate the subsequent steps in infection. - Highlights: • Cell free viruses are able to receive external trigger that leads to apparent size expansion. • Virus envelope and CD4 receptor engagement is the lynchpin of virus size expansion. • Internal capsid organisation can influence receptor mediated virus size expansion. • Pre-existing virus-associated lipid membrane in cell free virus can accommodate the receptor mediated virus size expansion.« less

Pre-combustion CO2 capture by transition metal ions embedded in phthalocyanine sheets

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lü, Kun; Zhou, Jian; Zhou, Le; Chen, X. S.; Chan, Siew Hwa; Sun, Qiang

2012-06-01

Transition metal (TM) embedded two-dimensional phthalocyanine (Pc) sheets have been recently synthesized in experiments [M. Abel, S. Clair, O. Ourdjini, M. Mossoyan, and L. Porte, J. Am. Chem. Soc. 133, 1203 (2010)], 10.1021/ja108628r, where the transition metal ions are uniformly distributed in porous structures, providing the possibility of capturing gas molecules. Using first principles and grand canonical Monte Carlo simulations, TMPc sheets (TM = Sc, Ti, and Fe) are studied for pre-combustion CO2 capture by considering the adsorptions of H2/CO2 gas mixtures. It is found that ScPc sheet shows a good selectivity for CO2, and the excess uptake capacity of single-component CO2 on ScPc sheet at 298 K and 50 bar is found to be 2949 mg/g, larger than that of any other reported porous materials. Furthermore, electrostatic potential and natural bond orbital analyses are performed to reveal the underlying interaction mechanisms, showing that electrostatic interactions as well as the donation and back donation of electrons between the transition metal ions and the CO2 molecules play a key role in the capture.

Formation of Specialized Propagules Resistant to Desiccation and Cryopreservation in the Threatened Moss Ditrichum plumbicola (Ditrichales, Bryopsida)

PubMed Central

Rowntree, J. K.; Duckett, J. G.; Mortimer, C. L.; Ramsay, M. M.; Pressel, S.

2007-01-01

Background and Aims Successful cryopreservation of bryophytes is linked to intrinsic desiccation tolerance and survival can be enhanced by pre-treatment with abscisic acid (ABA) and sucrose. The pioneer moss Ditrichum plumbicola is naturally subjected to desiccation in the field but showed unexpectedly low survival of cryopreservation, as well as a poor response to pre-treatment. The effects of the cryopreservation protocol on protonemata of D. plumbicola were investigated in order to explore possible relationships between the production in vitro of cryopreservation-tolerant asexual propagules and the reproductive biology of D. plumbicola in nature. Methods Protonemata were prepared for cryopreservation using a four-step protocol involving encapsulation in sodium alginate, pre-treatment for 2 weeks with ABA and sucrose, desiccation for 6 h and rapid freezing in liquid nitrogen. After each stage, protonemata were prepared for light and electron microscopy and growth on standard medium was monitored. Further samples were prepared for light and electron microscopy at intervals over a 24-h period following removal from liquid nitrogen and re-hydration. Key Results Pre-treatment with ABA and sucrose caused dramatic changes to the protonemata. Growth was arrested and propagules induced with pronounced morphological and cytological changes. Most cells died, but those that survived were characterized by thick, deeply pigmented walls, numerous small vacuoles and lipid droplets in their cytoplasm. Desiccation and cryopreservation elicited no dramatic cytological changes. Cells returned to their pre-dehydration and cryopreservation state within 2 h of re-hydration and/or removal from liquid nitrogen. Regeneration was normal once the ABA/sucrose stimulus was removed. Conclusions The ABA/sucrose pre-treatment induced the formation of highly desiccation- and cryopreservation-tolerant propagules from the protonemata of D. plumbicola. This parallels behaviour in the wild, where highly desiccation-tolerant rhizoids function as perennating organs allowing the moss to endure extreme environmental conditions. An involvement of endogenous ABA in the desiccation tolerance of D. plumbicola is suggested. PMID:17666410

Fabrication of Flower-like ZnO Micro/Nanostructures for Photodegradation of Pre-treated Palm Oil Mill Effluent

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lam, Sze-Mun; Wong, Kok-Ann; Sin, Jin-Chung

2018-01-01

Flower-like ZnO micro/nanostructures were fabricated by a simple and surfactant-free reflux method. X-ray diffraction findings showed that the prepared ZnO product was highly crystallite with hexagonal wurtzite structure. The band gap energy of ZnO sample was measured to be 3.18 eV via an optical reflectance spectrum. The flower-like morphological features of ZnO micro/nanostructures were witnessed through field-emission scanning electron microscopy. Such micro/nanoparticles could be used in the photodegradation of pre-treated palm oil mil effluent (POME) under UV irradiation.

HB-EGF embedded in PGA/PLLA scaffolds via subcritical CO2 augments the production of tissue engineered intestine.

PubMed

Liu, Yanchun; Nelson, Tyler; Cromeens, Barrett; Rager, Terrence; Lannutti, John; Johnson, Jed; Besner, Gail E

2016-10-01

The ability to deliver sustained-release, biologically active growth factors through custom designed tissue engineering scaffolds at sites of tissue regeneration offers great therapeutic opportunity. Due to the short in vivo half-lives of most growth factors, it is challenging to deliver these proteins to sites of interest where they may be used before being degraded. The application of subcritical CO2 uses gas-phase CO2 at subcritical pressures ranging from 41 to 62 bar (595-913 PSI) which avoids foaming by reducing the amount of CO2 dissolved in the polymer and maintains completely reversible plasticization. In the current study, heparin-binding EGF-like growth factor (HB-EGF) was embedded into polyglycolic acid (PGA)/Poly-l-latic acid (PLLA) scaffolds via subcritical CO2 exposure for the production of tissue engineered intestine (TEI). PGA fiber morphology after subcritical CO2 exposure was examined by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and the distribution of HB-EGF embedded in the scaffold fibers was detected by HB-EGF immunofluorescent staining. In vivo implantation of HB-EGF-embedded scaffolds confirmed significantly improved TEI structure as a result of local delivery of the trophic growth factor. These findings may be critical for the production of TEI in the treatment of patients with short bowel syndrome in the future. Copyright © 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Flat ion milling: a powerful tool for preparation of cross-sections of lead-silver alloys.

PubMed

Brodusch, Nicolas; Boisvert, Sophie; Gauvin, Raynald

2013-06-01

While conventional mechanical and chemical polishing results in stress, deformation and polishing particles embedded on the surface, flat milling with Ar+ ions erodes the material with no mechanical artefacts. This flat milling process is presented as an alternative method to prepare a Pb-Ag alloy cross-section for scanning electron microscopy. The resulting surface is free of scratches with very little to no stress induced, so that electron diffraction and channelling contrast are possible. The results have shown that energy dispersive spectrometer (EDS) mapping, electron channelling contrast imaging and electron backscatter diffraction can be conducted with only one sample preparation step. Electron diffraction patterns acquired at 5 keV possessed very good pattern quality, highlighting an excellent surface condition. An orientation map was acquired at 20 keV with an indexing rate of 90.1%. An EDS map was performed at 5 keV, and Pb-Ag precipitates of sizes lower than 100 nm were observed. However, the drawback of the method is the generation of a noticeable surface topography resulting from the interaction of the ion beam with a polycrystalline and biphasic sample.

Prolonged and continuous antibacterial and anti-biofilm activities of thin films embedded with gentamicin-loaded mesoporous silica nanoparticles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tamanna, Tasnuva; Landersdorfer, Cornelia B.; Ng, Hooi Jun; Bulitta, Jürgen B.; Wood, Peter; Yu, Aimin

2018-05-01

The application of mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs) in drug delivery systems has become highly attractive since the early 2000s. In this study, thin-film coatings embedded with gentamicin-loaded mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSN-G) were prepared to provide antibacterial and anti-biofilm activity over a prolonged period of time. The prolonged and continuous activity of MSN-G films against Staphylococcus aureus throughout the release period was studied via two methods, namely, (1) disc diffusion of released gentamicin and (2) by shifting the MSN-G thin film to a new agar plate at certain time intervals. The expansion of the inhibition zone from 4.6 ± 0.5 to 9.7 ± 0.5 mm as caused by the released fraction of gentamicin from the first week to the eighth week indicated the controlled and slow release behaviour of loaded antibiotic and prolonged antibacterial efficacy of these films. In addition, the appearance of an inhibition zone after each shifting of the film to a new agar plate was persistent up to 103 days which confirmed that thin films successively prevented bacterial growth over a long period of time. In addition, the anti-biofilm activity of MSN-G films was evaluated by imaging bacterial cells attachment via confocal laser scanning microscopy and scanning electron microscopy. Remarkably, the anti-biofilm performance remained active for more than 2 months. To the best of our knowledge, such a slow and controlled release of antibiotic from nanoparticle embedded thin films with uninterrupted, continuous, and prolonged antibacterial effect for more than 2 months has not been reported yet.

In Vivo Microscopy Reveals Extensive Embedding of Capillaries within the Sarcolemma of Skeletal Muscle Fibers

PubMed Central

Glancy, Brian; Hsu, Li-Yueh; Dao, Lam; Bakalar, Matthew; French, Stephanie; Chess, David J.; Taylor, Joni L.; Picard, Martin; Aponte, Angel; Daniels, Mathew P.; Esfahani, Shervin; Cushman, Samuel; Balaban, Robert S.

2013-01-01

Objective To provide insight into mitochondrial function in vivo, we evaluated the 3D spatial relationship between capillaries, mitochondria, and muscle fibers in live mice. Methods 3D volumes of in vivo murine Tibialis anterior muscles were imaged by multi-photon microscopy (MPM). Muscle fiber type, mitochondrial distribution, number of capillaries, and capillary-to-fiber contact were assessed. The role of myoglobin-facilitated diffusion was examined in myoglobin knockout mice. Distribution of GLUT4 was also evaluated in the context of the capillary and mitochondrial network. Results MPM revealed that 43.6 ± 3.3% of oxidative fiber capillaries had ≥ 50% of their circumference embedded in a groove in the sarcolemma, in vivo. Embedded capillaries were tightly associated with dense mitochondrial populations lateral to capillary grooves and nearly absent below the groove. Mitochondrial distribution, number of embedded capillaries, and capillary-to-fiber contact were proportional to fiber oxidative capacity and unaffected by myoglobin knockout. GLUT4 did not preferentially localize to embedded capillaries. Conclusions Embedding capillaries in the sarcolemma may provide a regulatory mechanism to optimize delivery of oxygen to heterogeneous groups of muscle fibers. We hypothesize that mitochondria locate to paravascular regions due to myofibril voids created by embedded capillaries, not to enhance the delivery of oxygen to the mitochondria. PMID:25279425

Surface characterization of InP trenches embedded in oxide using scanning probe microscopy

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

Mannarino, Manuel, E-mail: manuel.mannarino@imec.be, E-mail: manuelmannarino@gmail.com; Chintala, Ravi; Vandervorst, Wilfried

2015-12-14

Metrology for structural and electrical analyses at device level has been identified as one of the major challenges to be resolved for the sub-14 nm technology nodes. In these advanced nodes, new high mobility semiconductors, such as III–V compounds, are grown in narrow trenches on a Si substrate. Probing the nature of the defects, the defect density, and the role of processing steps on the surface of such structures are prime metrology requirements. In order to enable defect analysis on a (III–V) surface, a proper sample preparation for oxide removal is of primary importance. In this work, the effectiveness of differentmore » chemical cleanings and thermal annealing procedures is investigated on both blanket InP and oxide embedded InP trenches by means of scanning probe microscopy techniques. It is found that the most effective approach is a combination of an HCl-based chemical cleaning combined with a low-temperature thermal annealing leading to an oxide free surface with atomically flat areas. Scanning tunneling microscopy (STM) has been the preferred method for such investigations on blanket films due to its intrinsic sub-nm spatial resolution. However, its application on oxide embedded structures is non-trivial. To perform STM on the trenches of interest (generally <20 nm wide), we propose a combination of non-contact atomic force microscopy and STM using the same conductive atomic force microscopy tip Our results prove that with these procedures, it is possible to perform STM in narrow InP trenches showing stacking faults and surface reconstruction. Significant differences in terms of roughness and terrace formation are also observed between the blanket and the oxide embedded InP.« less

The Mechanism of High Ductility for Novel High-Carbon Quenching-Partitioning-Tempering Martensitic Steel

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Qin, Shengwei; Liu, Yu; Hao, Qingguo; Wang, Ying; Chen, Nailu; Zuo, Xunwei; Rong, Yonghua

2015-09-01

In this article, a novel quenching-partitioning-tempering (Q-P-T) process was applied to treat Fe-0.6C-1.5Mn-1.5Si-0.6Cr-0.05Nb hot-rolled high-carbon steel and the microstructures including retained austenite fraction and the average dislocation densities in both martensite and retained austenite were characterized by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and transmission electron microscopy, respectively. The Q-P-T steel exhibits high strength (1950 MPa) and elongation (12.4 pct). Comparing with the steel treated by traditional quenching and tempering (Q&T) process, the mechanism of high ductility for high-carbon Q-P-T steel is revealed as follows. Much more retained austenite existing in Q-P-T steel than in Q&T one remarkably enhances the ductility by the following two effects: the dislocation absorption by retained austenite effect and the transformation-induced plasticity effect. Besides, lower dislocation density in martensite matrix produced by Q-P-T process plays an important role in the improvement of ductility. However, some thin plates of twin-type martensite embedded in dislocation-type martensite matrix in high-carbon Q-P-T steel affect the further improvement of ductility.

Synthesis and characterization of nanocomposite GO@α-Fe2O3:Efficient material for dye removal

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mandal, B.; Panda, J.; Tudu, B.

2018-05-01

In this work a composite of Graphene Oxide (GO) supported α-Fe2O3 nanoparticles (GF) has been synthesized via a simple co-precipitation method. Structural, and morphological study of nanocomposite (GF) are examined by powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM) and Transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The XRD study indicates that Graphene oxide is implanted with well crystalline α-Fe2O3 which has pure rhombohedral phase. Surface morphological study of SEM depicts sphere-like shaped α-Fe2O3 particles with formation of clusters have been embedded on Graphene oxide nano sheet. TEM image reveals that GO sheet acts as a good supporting material for anchoring nano sized α -Fe2O3 particles. Efficiency of dye removal of the prepared GF composite has been measured by the degradation of methylene blue (MB) in an aqueous solution under visible light irradiation. The degradation of the dye has been evaluated by a UV-visible spectroscopy, by decrease in the intensity of absorbance and concentration. The degradation efficiency of GF is found to be 90% towards MB.

Preparation and characterization of RuO2/polypyrrole electrodes for supercapacitors

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, Xiang; Wu, Yujiao; Zheng, Feng; Ling, Min; Lu, Fanghai

2014-11-01

Polypyrrole (PPy) embedded RuO2 electrodes were prepared by the composite method. Precursor solution of RuO2 was coated on tantalum sheet and annealed at 260 °C for 2.5 h to develop a thin film. PPy particles were deposited on RuO2 films and dried at 80 °C for 12 h to form composite electrode. Microstructure and morphology of RuO2/PPy electrode were characterized using Fourier transform infrared spectrometer, X-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy, respectively. Our results confirmed that counter ions are incorporated into RuO2 matrix. Structure of the composite with amorphous phase was verified by X-ray diffraction. Analysis by scanning electron microscopy reveals that during grain growth of RuO2/PPy, PPy particle size sharply increases as deposition time is over 20 min. Electrochemical properties of RuO2/PPy electrode were calculated using cyclic voltammetry. As deposition times of PPy are 10, 20, 25 and 30 min, specific capacitances of composite electrodes reach 657, 553, 471 and 396 F g-1, respectively. Cyclic behaviors of RuO2/PPy composite electrodes are stable.

Pulsed-voltage atom probe tomography of low conductivity and insulator materials by application of ultrathin metallic coating on nanoscale specimen geometry.

PubMed

Adineh, Vahid R; Marceau, Ross K W; Chen, Yu; Si, Kae J; Velkov, Tony; Cheng, Wenlong; Li, Jian; Fu, Jing

2017-10-01

We present a novel approach for analysis of low-conductivity and insulating materials with conventional pulsed-voltage atom probe tomography (APT), by incorporating an ultrathin metallic coating on focused ion beam prepared needle-shaped specimens. Finite element electrostatic simulations of coated atom probe specimens were performed, which suggest remarkable improvement in uniform voltage distribution and subsequent field evaporation of the insulated samples with a metallic coating of approximately 10nm thickness. Using design of experiment technique, an experimental investigation was performed to study physical vapor deposition coating of needle specimens with end tip radii less than 100nm. The final geometries of the coated APT specimens were characterized with high-resolution scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy, and an empirical model was proposed to determine the optimal coating thickness for a given specimen size. The optimal coating strategy was applied to APT specimens of resin embedded Au nanospheres. Results demonstrate that the optimal coating strategy allows unique pulsed-voltage atom probe analysis and 3D imaging of biological and insulated samples. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Comparison of the Microstructure and Flux Pinning Properties of Polycrystalline YBa2Cu3O7-d Containing Zn0.95Mn0.05O or Al2O3 Nanoparticles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Al-Mohsin, R. A.; Al-Otaibi, A. L.; Almessiere, M. A.; Al-badairy, H.; Slimani, Y.; Ben Azzouz, F.

2018-07-01

Here we compare the microstructure and flux pinning properties of polycrystalline YBa2Cu3O7-d (Y-123 or YBCO) containing either Al2O3 or Zn0.95Mn0.05O nanoparticles. Samples were prepared using a standard solid-state reaction process, and nanoparticles were added up to a concentration of 0.1 wt%. The crystal structure, microstructure, electrical and magnetic properties were analyzed using X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and electrical resistivity and DC magnetization measurements, respectively. TEM observations showed that the addition of Zn0.95Mn0.05O resulted in a high density of fine twins and a variety of interacting microstructures, while Al2O3 addition resulted in a high density of Al-rich nanoscale inhomogeneities embedded in the Y-123 matrix. Flux pinning forces were determined, and predominant pinning mechanisms in the prepared samples were proposed. We evaluated the superconducting properties of YBCO considering the effects of adding insulating or magnetic nanoparticles.

New techniques enable comparative analysis of microtubule orientation, wall texture, and growth rate in intact roots of Arabidopsis.

PubMed

Sugimoto, K; Williamson, R E; Wasteneys, G O

2000-12-01

This article explores root epidermal cell elongation and its dependence on two structural elements of cells, cortical microtubules and cellulose microfibrils. The recent identification of Arabidopsis morphology mutants with putative cell wall or cytoskeletal defects demands a procedure for examining and comparing wall architecture and microtubule organization patterns in this species. We developed methods to examine cellulose microfibrils by field emission scanning electron microscopy and microtubules by immunofluorescence in essentially intact roots. We were able to compare cellulose microfibril and microtubule alignment patterns at equivalent stages of cell expansion. Field emission scanning electron microscopy revealed that Arabidopsis root epidermal cells have typical dicot primary cell wall structure with prominent transverse cellulose microfibrils embedded in pectic substances. Our analysis showed that microtubules and microfibrils have similar orientation only during the initial phase of elongation growth. Microtubule patterns deviate from a predominantly transverse orientation while cells are still expanding, whereas cellulose microfibrils remain transverse until well after expansion finishes. We also observed microtubule-microfibril alignment discord before cells enter their elongation phase. This study and the new technology it presents provide a starting point for further investigations on the physical properties of cell walls and their mechanisms of assembly.

UV-curable ZnS/polymer nanocomposite for replication of micron and submicron features

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kalima, Valtteri; Vartiainen, Ismo; Saastamoinen, Toni; Suvanto, Mika; Kuittinen, Markku; Pakkanen, Tuula T.

2009-08-01

In view of the wide interest in high refractive index polymers for microreplication, study was made of UV-curable high refractive index nanocomposite material for microreplication purposes. The refractive index of the nanocomposite was tailored through the addition of surface-modified ZnS nanoparticles to commercial ORMOCOMP ® inorganic-organic hybrid polymer. The refractive index of ORMOCOMP ® was increased linearly from 1.514 (620 nm) to 1.645 (620 nm) by embedding of the nanoparticles (18.6 V%). The nanocomposite showed excellent transparency ( T = 89-92%), and increase in the nanoparticle loading shifted the absorption edge from 380 nm to 420 nm. Low scattering of transmitted light (determined by UV-VIS-NIR spectrophotometry) and high dispersion of ZnS (determined by scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive X-ray spectrometry and transmission electron microscopy) indicated low aggregation of the ZnS nanoparticles. Finally, the nanocomposite was applied to micromolding in capillaries to replicate micrometer-size channels (8 μm × 1.5 μm) with Bragg gratings (period 520 nm and depth 400 nm) on top of the channels. Based on the AFM results the MIMIC molding method was found to be suitable for the replication of microchannels into nanocomposite material.

Role of Crystallization in the Morphology of Polymer: Non-fullerene Acceptor Bulk Heterojunctions

DOE PAGES

O’Hara, Kathryn A.; Ostrowski, David P.; Koldemir, Unsal; ...

2017-05-22

Many high efficiency organic photovoltaics use fullerene-based acceptors despite their high production cost, weak optical absorption in the visible range, and limited synthetic variability of electronic and optical properties. To circumvent this deficiency, non-fullerene small-molecule acceptors have been developed that have good synthetic flexibility, allowing for precise tuning of optoelectronic properties, leading to enhanced absorption of the solar spectrum and increased open-circuit voltages ( V OC). We examined the detailed morphology of bulk heterojunctions of poly(3-hexylthiophene) and the small-molecule acceptor HPI-BT to reveal structural changes that lead to improvements in the fill factor of solar cells upon thermal annealing. Themore » kinetics of the phase transformation process of HPI-BT during thermal annealing were investigated through in situ grazing incidence wide-angle X-ray scattering studies, atomic force microscopy, and transmission electron microscopy. The HPI-BT acceptor crystallizes during film formation to form micron-sized domains embedded within the film center and a donor rich capping layer at the cathode interface reducing efficient charge extraction. Thermal annealing changes the surface composition and improves charge extraction. In conclusion, this study reveals the need for complementary methods to investigate the morphology of BHJs.« less

Comparison of the Microstructure and Flux Pinning Properties of Polycrystalline YBa2Cu3O7-d Containing Zn0.95Mn0.05O or Al2O3 Nanoparticles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Al-Mohsin, R. A.; Al-Otaibi, A. L.; Almessiere, M. A.; Al-badairy, H.; Slimani, Y.; Ben Azzouz, F.

2018-03-01

Here we compare the microstructure and flux pinning properties of polycrystalline YBa2Cu3O7-d (Y-123 or YBCO) containing either Al2O3 or Zn0.95Mn0.05O nanoparticles. Samples were prepared using a standard solid-state reaction process, and nanoparticles were added up to a concentration of 0.1 wt%. The crystal structure, microstructure, electrical and magnetic properties were analyzed using X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and electrical resistivity and DC magnetization measurements, respectively. TEM observations showed that the addition of Zn0.95Mn0.05O resulted in a high density of fine twins and a variety of interacting microstructures, while Al2O3 addition resulted in a high density of Al-rich nanoscale inhomogeneities embedded in the Y-123 matrix. Flux pinning forces were determined, and predominant pinning mechanisms in the prepared samples were proposed. We evaluated the superconducting properties of YBCO considering the effects of adding insulating or magnetic nanoparticles.

Role of Crystallization in the Morphology of Polymer: Non-fullerene Acceptor Bulk Heterojunctions

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

O’Hara, Kathryn A.; Ostrowski, David P.; Koldemir, Unsal

Many high efficiency organic photovoltaics use fullerene-based acceptors despite their high production cost, weak optical absorption in the visible range, and limited synthetic variability of electronic and optical properties. To circumvent this deficiency, non-fullerene small-molecule acceptors have been developed that have good synthetic flexibility, allowing for precise tuning of optoelectronic properties, leading to enhanced absorption of the solar spectrum and increased open-circuit voltages ( V OC). We examined the detailed morphology of bulk heterojunctions of poly(3-hexylthiophene) and the small-molecule acceptor HPI-BT to reveal structural changes that lead to improvements in the fill factor of solar cells upon thermal annealing. Themore » kinetics of the phase transformation process of HPI-BT during thermal annealing were investigated through in situ grazing incidence wide-angle X-ray scattering studies, atomic force microscopy, and transmission electron microscopy. The HPI-BT acceptor crystallizes during film formation to form micron-sized domains embedded within the film center and a donor rich capping layer at the cathode interface reducing efficient charge extraction. Thermal annealing changes the surface composition and improves charge extraction. In conclusion, this study reveals the need for complementary methods to investigate the morphology of BHJs.« less

Fabrication of Total-Dose-Radiation-Hardened (TDRH) SOI wafer with embedded silicon nanoclusters

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wu, Aimin; Wang, Xi; Wei, Xing; Chen, Jing; Chen, Ming; Zhang, Zhengxuan

2009-05-01

Si ion-implantation and post annealing of silicon wafers prior to wafer bonding were used to radiation-harden the thermal oxide layer of Silicon on Insulator structures. After grinding and polishing, Total-Dose-Radiation-Hardened SOI (TDRH-SOI) wafers with several-micron-thick device layers were prepared. Electrical characterization before and after X-ray irradiation showed that the flatband voltage shift induced by irradiation was reduced by this preprocessing. Photoluminescence Spectroscopy (PL), Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) results indicated that the improvement of the total dose response of the TDRH-SOI wafer was associated with formation of Si nanoclusters in the implanted oxide layer, suggesting that these were the likely candidates for electron and proton trapping centers that reduce the positive charge buildup effect in the buried oxide.

Structural transformation of macroporous silicon anodes as a result of cyclic lithiation processes

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

Li, G. V.; Kulova, T. L.; Tolmachev, V. A., E-mail: tva@mail.ioffe.ru

2013-09-15

Anodes based on a regular lattice of macroporous silicon with different periods, sizes, and shapes of pore cross sections are studied. The discharge capacity and its degradation during cycling (embedding and extraction of lithium) are examined. Scanning electron microscopy is used to analyze changes in the electrode structure upon the lithiation/delithiation of Si and to evaluate the elemental composition of the porous material. An ex situ morphological analysis of the electrodes demonstrates that, on the whole, the porous structure is preserved upon cycling and the thickness of silicon walls increases. The degree of Si-wall destruction depends on their initial thickness.more » Estimates show that the electrolyte reduction process mainly occurs according to the two-electron mechanism, with inorganic salts of lithium formed as a result.« less

Microstructural evolution of diamond growth during HFCVD

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Singh, J.

1994-01-01

High resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) was used to study the nucleation and growth mechanism of diamond by hot filament chemical vapor deposition (HFCVD) process. A novel technique has shown a direct evidence for the formation of the diamond-like carbon layer 8-14 nm thick in which small diamond micro-crystallites were embedded. These diamond micro-crystallites were formed as a result of transformation of diamond-like carbon into diamond. The diamond micro-crystallites present in the amorphous diamond-like carbon layer provided nucleation sites for diamond growth. Large diamond crystallites were observed to grow from these micro-crystallites. The mechanism of diamond growth will be presented based on experimental findings.

Ionic liquid-templated preparation of mesoporous silica embedded with nanocrystalline sulfated zirconia

PubMed Central

2011-01-01

A series of mesoporous silicas impregnated with nanocrystalline sulphated zirconia was prepared by a sol-gel process using an ionic liquid-templated route. The physicochemical properties of the mesoporous sulphated zirconia materials were studied using characterisation techniques such as inductively coupled optical emission spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, energy-dispersive X-ray microanalysis, elemental analysis and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. Analysis of the new silicas indicates isomorphous substitution of silicon with zirconium and reveals the presence of extremely small (< 10 nm) polydispersed zirconia nanoparticles in the materials with zirconium loadings from 27.77 to 41.4 wt.%. PMID:21711725

TEM analysis of irradiation-induced interaction layers in coated UMo/X/Al trilayer systems (X= Ti, Nb, Zr, and Mo)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chiang, H.-Y.; Wiss, T.; Park, S.-H.; Dieste-Blanco, O.; Petry, W.

2018-02-01

Uranium-molybdenum (UMo) alloy powder embedded in an Al matrix is considered as a promising candidate for fuel conversion of research reactors. A modified system with a diffusion barrier X as coating, UMo/X/Al trilayer (X = Ti, Zr, Nb, and Mo), has been investigated to suppress interdiffusion between UMo and the Al matrix. The trilayer systems were tested by swift heavy ion irradiation, the thereby created interaction zone has been analyzed by scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM) and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX). Detailed structural characterization are presented and compared to earlier μ-XRD analysis.

Surface morphology and improved electrical conductivity of camphorsulfonic acid surfactant based PANI nano composite

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Niranjana, M.; Yesappa, L.; Ashokkumar, S. P.; Vijeth, H.; Devendrappa, H.

2018-05-01

Polyaniline and its composites at different wt. % of Copper oxide nano (PCC1 and PCC5) were prepared by in-situ chemical reaction method. The composites were characterized by Fourier Transform Infrared (FT-IR) Spectroscopy, Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FESEM) and the impedance measurement was carried out at different temperature. FTIR and SEM image reveals the presence of copper metal ions uniformly embedded into PANI. The dc electrical conductivity increases with increasing nano concentration in PANI and achieved high conductivity for PCC5. These results are suggesting PCC composite is a prominent candidate for supercapacitor properties and optoelectronics devices applications.

Observation of enhanced superconductivity in the vicinity of Ar-induced nano-cavities in Pb(111).

PubMed

Song, Sang Yong; Seo, Jungpil

2017-09-22

Local variations of superconductivity have been studied using scanning tunneling microscopy around nano-cavities formed by Ar ions embedded in Pb(111). Various factors including the density of states at Fermi energy, electron-phonon couplings, and quantum well states, which are known to affect superconductivity, have been examined. We show that the superconductivity is enhanced near the nano-cavities and propose that quantum effects such as quantum confinement, proximity effect and multi-gap effect are possibly involved in determining the superconducting gap of this system. These results have important implications for the characterization and understanding of superconductivity at a nanometer scale.

Analysis of the structure of fish lymphocystis disease virions from skin tumours of pleuronectes.

PubMed

Samalecos, C P

1986-01-01

Virions of fish lymphocystis disease (FLDV) from tumour-carrying-fishes (flounder, dab, plaice and gurnard) collected in the North Sea were isolated directly from the tumours and purified by sucrose and subsequent caesium chloride gradient centrifugation. They were studied by electron microscopy using embedding methods, negative staining and using metal shadowing methods. Tumours of dermal connective fish tissue showed particles with hexagonal outlines. Occasionally, an "empty structure" was observed. Subunits of the virus membrane were identified after 3 per cent phosphotungstic acid (PTA) or 0.2 per cent Ruthenium red (RR) staining. FLDV measures 199-227 nm in diameter.

Does perinatal asphyxia induce apoptosis in the inner ear?

PubMed

Schmutzhard, Joachim; Glueckert, Rudolf; Sergi, Consolato; Schwentner, Ilona; Abraham, Irene; Schrott-Fischer, Annelies

2009-04-01

Pre- and perinatal asphyxia is known to be an important risk factor in the development of neonatal hearing impairment. This study aims to evaluate the role of apoptosis, which is known to play an essential role in the development of the inner ear structures, in the development of neonatal hearing loss caused by pre- and perinatal asphyxia. Eight temporal bones of six different newborns were included. We performed a morphologic analysis by both light microscopy, and transmission electron microscopy, as well as immunohistochemical staining to detect the cleaved form of caspase 3 as apoptosis marker and Bcl 2 as anti-apoptotic marker. Early and late phases of apoptosis were evidenced by condensation of chromatin (electron-dense, black structure along nuclear membrane) and fragmentation of the nucleus, respectively. Changes in nuclear morphology during apoptosis correlate with cleavage by caspase 3 located downstream of Bcl 2 action. The immunohistochemistry for cleaved caspase 3 showed a particular predilection for the inner and outer hair cells, spiral ganglion cells and the marginal cells of the stria vascularis. The brain of all examined cases did not show signs of apoptosis. In summary, this investigation suggests that apoptosis takes place before brain tissue apoptosis and is probably an earlier event than thought. Apoptosis of the cochlea is known to play an essential role in the development of the inner ear. Additionally, this study shows that apoptosis may play an important role in the development of hearing impairment, caused by pre- and perinatal asphyxia.

New Carbon Source From Microbial Degradation of Pre-Production Resin Pellets from the North Pacific Gyre

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Neal, A.; Mielke, R.; Stam, C. N.; Gonsior, M.; Tsapin, A. I.; Lee, G.; Leftwich, B.; Narayan, R.; Coleman, H.; Argyropoulos, N.; Sheavly, S. B.; Gorby, Y. A.

2011-12-01

Numerous pollutants are transported through the world's oceans that impact oceanic health. Diffuse sources include land-based runoff, atmospheric depositions, shipping industry wastes, and others. Synthetic polymer marine debris is a multi-faceted problem that includes interactions with environmental toxins, carbon cycling systems, ocean surface chemistry, fine minerals deposition, and nano-particles. The impact that synthetic polymer-microbe interactions have on carbon input into the open ocean is poorly understood. Here we demonstrate that both biotic and abiotic processes contribute to degradation of pre-production resin pellets (PRPs), in open ocean environments and new methodologies to determine carbon loss from this synthetic polymer debris. Our data shows that material degradation of environmental polyethylene PRPs can potentially deposit 13 mg/g to 65 mg/g of carbon per PRP into our marine environments. Environmental pre-production resin pellets were collected on the S/V Kaisei cruise in 2009 which covered over 3,000 nautical miles and sampled over 102,000 m3 of the first 15cm of the water column in the Subtropical Convergence Zone of the North Pacific Gyre. Environmental PRP degradation and the role microbial communities play in this was evaluated using a combination of Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, environmental scanning electron microscopy, scanning transmission electron microscopy, X-ray microtomography, and ArcGIS mapping. More research is needed to understand the environmental impact of this new carbon source arising from synthetic polymers as they degrade in oceanic environments.

In situ Synthesis of Metal Nanoparticle Embedded Free Standing Multifunctional PDMS Films.

PubMed

Goyal, Anubha; Kumar, Ashavani; Patra, Prabir K; Mahendra, Shaily; Tabatabaei, Salomeh; Alvarez, Pedro J J; John, George; Ajayan, Pulickel M

2009-07-01

We demonstrate a simple one-step method for synthesizing noble metal nanoparticle embedded free standing polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) composite films. The process involves preparing a homogenous mixture of metal salt (silver, gold and platinum), silicone elastomer and the curing agent (hardener) followed by curing. During the curing process, the hardener crosslinks the elastomer and simultaneously reduces the metal salt to form nanoparticles. This in situ method avoids the use of any external reducing agent/stabilizing agent and leads to a uniform distribution of nanoparticles in the PDMS matrix. The films were characterized using UV-Vis spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy and X-ray photoemission spectroscopy. The nanoparticle-PDMS films have a higher Young's modulus than pure PDMS films and also show enhanced antibacterial properties. The metal nanoparticle-PDMS films could be used for a number of applications such as for catalysis, optical and biomedical devices and gas separation membranes. Copyright © 2009 WILEY-VCH Verlag GmbH & Co. KGaA, Weinheim.

Embedded Carbide-derived Carbon (CDC) particles in polypyrrole (PPy) for linear actuator

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zondaka, Zane; Valner, Robert; Aabloo, Alvo; Tamm, Tarmo; Kiefer, Rudolf

2016-04-01

Conducting polymer linear actuators, for example sodium dodecylbenzenesulfonate (NaDBS) doped polypyrrole (PPy/DBS), have shown moderate strain and stress. The goal of this work was to increase the obtainable strain and stress by adding additional active material to PPy/DBS. In recent year's carbide-derived carbon (CDC)-based materials have been applied in actuators; however, the obtained displacement and actuation speed has been low comparing to conducting polymer based actuators. In the present work, a CDC-PPy hybrid was synthesized electrochemically and polyoxometalate (POM) - phosphotungstic acid - was used to attach charge to CDC particles. The CDC-POM served in the presence of NaDBS as an additional electrolyte. Cyclic voltammetry and chronopotentiometric electrochemomechanical deformation (ECMD) measurements were performed in Lithium bis(trifluoromethanesulfonyl)- imide (LiTFSI) aqueous electrolyte. The ECMD measurements revealed that the hybrid CDC-PPy material exhibited higher force and strain in comparison to PPy/DBS films. The new material was investigated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) to evaluate CDC particle embedding in the polymer network.

Surface micro-dissolve method of imparting self-cleaning property to cotton fabrics in NaOH/urea aqueous solution

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fan, Tao; Hu, Ruimin; Zhao, Zhenyun; Liu, Yiping; Lu, Ming

2017-04-01

A simple and economical micro-dissolved process of embedding titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanoparticles into surface zone of cotton fabrics was developed. TiO2 was coated on cotton fabrics in 7% wt NaOH/12% wt urea aqueous solution at low temperature. Photocatalytic efficiency of cotton fabrics treated with TiO2 nanoparticles was studied upon measuring the photocatalytic decoloration of Rhodamine B (RhB) under ultraviolet irradiation. Self-cleaning property of cotton fabric coated with TiO2 was evaluated with color depth of samples (K/S value). The treated fabrics were characterized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive spectrometer (EDS), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FITR), tensile strength, stiffness and whiteness. The results indicated, TiO2 nanoparticles could be embedded on the surface layer of cotton fabrics throuth surface micro-dissolve method. Treated cotton fabrics possessed distinct photocatalytic efficiency and self-cleaning properties. Tensile strength and whiteness of modified cotton fabrics appeared moderately increasement.

Synthesis of Silver Embedded Poly(o-Anisidine) Molybdophosphate Nano Hybrid Cation-Exchanger Applicable for Membrane Electrode

PubMed Central

Khan, Anish; Khan, Aftab Aslam Parwaz; Asiri, Abdullah M.; Rub, Malik Abdul

2014-01-01

Poly(o-anisidine) molybdophosphate was expediently obtained by sol-gel mixing of Poly(o-anisidine) into the inorganic matrices of molybdophosphate, which was allowed to react with silver nitrate to the formation of poly(o-anisidine) molybdophosphate embedded silver nano composite. The composite was characterized by Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy, X-ray powder diffraction, UV-Vis Spectrophotometry, Fluorescence Spectroscopy, Scanning Electron Microscopy/Energy-dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy and Thermogravimertic Analysis. Ion exchange capacity and distribution studies were carried out to understand the ion-exchange capabilities of the nano composite. On the basis of highest distribution studies, this nano composite cation exchanger was used as preparation of heavy metal ion selective membrane. Membrane was characterized for its performance as porosity and swelling later on was used for the preparation of membrane electrode for Hg(II), having better linear range, wide working pH range (2–4.5) with fast response in the real environment. PMID:24805257

High performance SONOS flash memory with in-situ silicon nanocrystals embedded in silicon nitride charge trapping layer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lim, Jae-Gab; Yang, Seung-Dong; Yun, Ho-Jin; Jung, Jun-Kyo; Park, Jung-Hyun; Lim, Chan; Cho, Gyu-seok; Park, Seong-gye; Huh, Chul; Lee, Hi-Deok; Lee, Ga-Won

2018-02-01

In this paper, SONOS-type flash memory device with highly improved charge-trapping efficiency is suggested by using silicon nanocrystals (Si-NCs) embedded in silicon nitride (SiNX) charge trapping layer. The Si-NCs were in-situ grown by PECVD without additional post annealing process. The fabricated device shows high program/erase speed and retention property which is suitable for multi-level cell (MLC) application. Excellent performance and reliability for MLC are demonstrated with large memory window of ∼8.5 V and superior retention characteristics of 7% charge loss for 10 years. High resolution transmission electron microscopy image confirms the Si-NC formation and the size is around 1-2 nm which can be verified again in X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) where pure Si bonds increase. Besides, XPS analysis implies that more nitrogen atoms make stable bonds at the regular lattice point. Photoluminescence spectra results also illustrate that Si-NCs formation in SiNx is an effective method to form deep trap states.

Development of dye-sensitized solar cells composed of liquid crystal embedded, electrospun poly(vinylidene fluoride-co-hexafluoropropylene) nanofibers as polymer gel electrolytes.

PubMed

Ahn, Sung Kwang; Ban, Taewon; Sakthivel, P; Lee, Jae Wook; Gal, Yeong-Soon; Lee, Jin-Kook; Kim, Mi-Ra; Jin, Sung-Ho

2012-04-01

In order to overcome the problems associated with the use of liquid electrolytes in dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs), a new system composed of liquid crystal embedded, polymer electrolytes has been developed. For this purpose, three types of DSSCs have been fabricated. The cells contain electrospun poly(vinylidene fluoride-co-hexafluoropropylene) (e-PVdF-co-HFP) polymer gel electrolyte, with and without doping with the liquid crystal E7 and with a liquid electrolyte. The morphologies of the newly prepared DSSCs were explored using field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM). Analysis of the FE-SEM images indicate that the DSSC composed of E7 embedded on e-PVdF-co-HFP polymer gel electrolyte has a greatly regular morphology with an average diameter. The ionic conductivity of E7 embedded on e-PVdF-co-HFP polymer gel electrolyte was found to be 2.9 × 10(-3) S/cm at room temperature, a value that is 37% higher than that of e-PVdF-co-HFP polymer gel electrolyte. The DCCS containing the E7 embedded, e-PVdF-co-HFP polymer gel electrolyte was observed to possess a much higher power conversion efficiency (PCE = 6.82%) than that of an e-PVdF-co-HFP nanofiber (6.35%). In addition, DSSCs parameters of the E7 embedded, e-PVdF-co-HFP polymer gel electrolyte (V(oc) = 0.72 V, J(sc) = 14.62 mA/cm(2), FF = 64.8%, and PCE = 6.82% at 1 sun intensity) are comparable to those of a liquid electrolyte (V(oc) = 0.75 V, J(sc) = 14.71 mA/cm(2), FF = 64.9%, and PCE = 7.17%, both at a 1 sun intensity).

Eeonomer 200F®: A High-Performance Nanofiller for Polymer Reinforcement—Investigation of the Structure, Morphology and Dielectric Properties of Polyvinyl Alcohol/Eeonomer-200F® Nanocomposites for Embedded Capacitor Applications

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Deshmukh, Kalim; Ahamed, M. Basheer; Deshmukh, Rajendra R.; Sadasivuni, Kishor Kumar; Ponnamma, Deepalekshmi; Pasha, S. K. Khadheer; AlMaadeed, Mariam Al-Ali; Polu, Anji Reddy; Chidambaram, K.

2017-04-01

In the present study, Eeonomer 200F® was used as a high-performance nanofiller to prepare polyvinyl alcohol (PVA)-based nanocomposite films using a simple and eco-friendly solution casting technique. The prepared PVA/Eeonomer nanocomposite films were further investigated using various techniques including Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, x-ray diffraction, thermogravimetric analysis, polarized optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy and mechanical testing. The dielectric behavior of the nanocomposites was examined over a broad frequency range from 50 Hz to 20 MHz and temperatures ranging from 40°C to 150°C. A notable improvement in the thermal stability of the PVA was observed with the incorporation of Eeonomer. The nanocomposites also demonstrated improved mechanical properties due to the fine dispersion of the Eeonomer, and good compatibility and strong interaction between the Eeonomer and the PVA matrix. A significant improvement was observed in the dielectric properties of the PVA upon the addition of Eeonomer. The nanocomposites containing 5 wt.% Eeonomer exhibited a dielectric constant of about 222.65 (50 Hz, 150°C), which was 18 times that of the dielectric constant (12.33) of neat PVA film under the same experimental conditions. These results thus indicate that PVA/Eeonomer nanocomposites can be used as a flexible high-k dielectric material for embedded capacitor applications.

Nano-extrusion: a promising tool for continuous manufacturing of solid nano-formulations.

PubMed

Baumgartner, Ramona; Eitzlmayr, Andreas; Matsko, Nadejda; Tetyczka, Carolin; Khinast, Johannes; Roblegg, Eva

2014-12-30

Since more than 40% of today's drugs have low stability, poor solubility and/or limited ability to cross certain biological barriers, new platform technologies are required to address these challenges. This paper describes a novel continuous process that converts a stabilized aqueous nano-suspension into a solid oral formulation in a single step (i.e., the NANEX process) in order to improve the solubility of a model drug (phenytoin). Phenytoin nano-suspensions were prepared via media milling using different stabilizers. A stable nano-suspension was obtained using Tween(®) 80 as a stabilizer. The matrix material (Soluplus(®)) was gravimetrically fed into the hot melt extruder. The suspension was introduced through a side feeding device and mixed with the molten polymer to immediately devolatilize the water in the nano-suspension. Phenytoin nano-crystals were dispersed and embedded in the molten polymer. Investigation of the nano-extrudates via transmission electron microscopy and atomic force microscopy showed that the nano-crystals were embedded de-aggregated in the extrudates. Furthermore, no changes in the crystallinity (due to the mechanical and thermal stress) occurred. The dissolution studies confirmed that the prepared nano-extrudates increased the solubility of nano-crystalline phenytoin, regardless of the polymer. Our work demonstrates that NANEX represents a promising new platform technology in the design of novel drug delivery systems to improve drug performance. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Confocal Raman microspectroscopic study of folate receptor-targeted delivery of 6-mercaptopurine-embedded gold nanoparticles in a single cell.

PubMed

Park, Jin; Jeon, Won Il; Lee, So Yeong; Ock, Kwang-Su; Seo, Ji Hye; Park, Jinho; Ganbold, Erdene-Ochir; Cho, Keunchang; Song, Nam Woong; Joo, Sang-Woo

2012-05-01

We investigate the cellular uptake behaviors and efficacy of folate-coated gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) for the targeted drug delivery system in human cancer cells. Folate-conjugated AuNPs embedded with a purine analogue cancer drug of 6-mercaptopurine (6MP) were assembled via a 1-ethyl-3-[3-dimethylaminopropyl] carbodiimide hydrochloride (EDC) coupling reaction between the amino group of 4-aminobenzenethiol (ABT) and the carboxyl group of folic acid. The assembly of folate and 6MP on AuNPs has been examined by absorption spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and confocal Raman spectroscopy. The internalization of the conjugated AuNPs inside the folate receptor-positive HeLa and KB cells was checked by TEM and dark-field microscopy (DFM) combined with label-free confocal spectroscopy over the depth variable z at a micrometer resolution. DFM live cell imaging of folate-conjugated AuNPs in HeLa cells indicated that the targeted AuNPs appeared to attach on the cell surfaces and enter into the cell with an hour. The cell viability was also compared to estimate the efficacy of folate-conjugated AuNP delivery systems. Folate receptor-targeted AuNP systems appeared to decrease cancer cell viability both in vitro and in vivo more than did the use of the 6MP-coated AuNPs drug without any targeting systems. Copyright © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Controlling self-assembly of diphenylalanine peptides at high pH using heterocyclic capping groups.

PubMed

Martin, Adam D; Wojciechowski, Jonathan P; Robinson, Andrew B; Heu, Celine; Garvey, Christopher J; Ratcliffe, Julian; Waddington, Lynne J; Gardiner, James; Thordarson, Pall

2017-03-08

Using small angle neutron scattering (SANS), it is shown that the existence of pre-assembled structures at high pH for a capped diphenylalanine hydrogel is controlled by the selection of N-terminal heterocyclic capping group, namely indole or carbazole. At high pH, changing from a somewhat hydrophilic indole capping group to a more hydrophobic carbazole capping group results in a shift from a high proportion of monomers to self-assembled fibers or wormlike micelles. The presence of these different self-assembled structures at high pH is confirmed through NMR and circular dichroism spectroscopy, scanning probe microscopy and cryogenic transmission electron microscopy.

Image processing for cryogenic transmission electron microscopy of symmetry-mismatched complexes.

PubMed

Huiskonen, Juha T

2018-02-08

Cryogenic transmission electron microscopy (cryo-TEM) is a high-resolution biological imaging method, whereby biological samples, such as purified proteins, macromolecular complexes, viral particles, organelles and cells, are embedded in vitreous ice preserving their native structures. Due to sensitivity of biological materials to the electron beam of the microscope, only relatively low electron doses can be applied during imaging. As a result, the signal arising from the structure of interest is overpowered by noise in the images. To increase the signal-to-noise ratio, different image processing-based strategies that aim at coherent averaging of signal have been devised. In such strategies, images are generally assumed to arise from multiple identical copies of the structure. Prior to averaging, the images must be grouped according to the view of the structure they represent and images representing the same view must be simultaneously aligned relatively to each other. For computational reconstruction of the three-dimensional structure, images must contain different views of the original structure. Structures with multiple symmetry-related substructures are advantageous in averaging approaches because each image provides multiple views of the substructures. However, the symmetry assumption may be valid for only parts of the structure, leading to incoherent averaging of the other parts. Several image processing approaches have been adapted to tackle symmetry-mismatched substructures with increasing success. Such structures are ubiquitous in nature and further computational method development is needed to understanding their biological functions. ©2018 The Author(s).

Air-stable solution-processed n-channel organic thin film transistors with polymerenhanced morphology

DOE PAGES

He, Zhengran; Shaik, Shoieb; Bi, Sheng; ...

2015-05-04

N,N 0-1H,1H-perfluorobutyl dicyanoperylenecarboxydiimide (PDIF-CN 2) is an n-type semiconductor exhibiting high electron mobility and excellent air stability. However, the reported electron mobility based on spin-coated PDIF-CN 2 film is much lower than the value of PDIF-CN 2 single crystals made from vapor phase deposition, indicating significant room for mobility enhancement. In this study, various insulating polymers, including poly(vinyl alcohol), poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA), and poly(alpha-methylstyrene) (PaMS), are pre-coated on silicon substrate aiming to enhance the morphology of the PDIF-CN 2 thin film, thereby improving the charge transport and air stability. Atomic force microscopy images reveal that with the pre-deposition of PaMSmore » or PMMA polymers, the morphology of the PDIF-CN 2 polycrystalline films is optimized in semiconducting crystal connectivity, domain size, and surface roughness, which leads to significant improvement of organic thin-film transistor (OTFT) performance. Particularly, an electron mobility of up to 0.55 cm 2/V s has been achieved from OTFTs based on the PDIF-CN 2 film with the pre-deposition of PaMS polymer.« less

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

Zhao, Xin-Yu; Zhu, Ying-Jie, E-mail: y.j.zhu@mail.sic.ac.cn; Lu, Bing-Qiang

Graphical abstract: Hydroxyapatite nanorods are synthesized using biocompatible biomolecule pyridoxal-5′-phosphate as a new organic phosphorus source by the hydrothermal method. - Highlights: • Hydrothermal synthesis of hydroxyapatite nanorods is reported. • Biocompatible pyridoxal-5′-phosphate is used as an organic phosphorus source. • This method is simple, surfactant-free and environmentally friendly. - Abstract: Hydroxyapatite nanorods are synthesized by the hydrothermal method using biocompatible biomolecule pyridoxal-5′-phosphate (PLP) as a new organic phosphorus source. In this method, PLP biomolecules are hydrolyzed to produce phosphate ions under hydrothermal conditions, and these phosphate ions react with pre-existing calcium ions to form hydroxyapatite nanorods. The effects ofmore » experimental conditions including hydrothermal temperature and time on the morphology and crystal phase of the products are investigated. This method is simple, surfactant-free and environmentally friendly. The products are characterized by X-ray powder diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, transmission electron microscopy, Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy, and thermogravimetric (TG) analysis.« less

Development of a neutral embedding resin for optical imaging of fluorescently labeled biological tissue

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhou, Hongfu; Gang, Yadong; Chen, Shenghua; Wang, Yu; Xiong, Yumiao; Li, Longhui; Yin, Fangfang; Liu, Yue; Liu, Xiuli; Zeng, Shaoqun

2017-10-01

Plastic embedding is widely applied in light microscopy analyses. Previous studies have shown that embedding agents and related techniques can greatly affect the quality of biological tissue embedding and fluorescent imaging. Specifically, it is difficult to preserve endogenous fluorescence using currently available acidic commercial embedding resins and related embedding techniques directly. Here, we developed a neutral embedding resin that improved the green fluorescent protein (GFP), yellow fluorescent protein (YFP), and DsRed fluorescent intensity without adjusting the pH value of monomers or reactivating fluorescence in lye. The embedding resin had a high degree of polymerization, and its fluorescence preservation ratios for GFP, YFP, and DsRed were 126.5%, 155.8%, and 218.4%, respectively.

When will low-contrast features be visible in a STEM X-ray spectrum image?

DOE PAGES

Parish, Chad M.

2015-04-01

When will a small or low-contrast feature, such as an embedded second-phase particle, be visible in a scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM) X-ray map? This work illustrates a computationally inexpensive method to simulate X-ray maps and spectrum images (SIs), based upon the equations of X-ray generation and detection. To particularize the general procedure, an example of nanostructured ferritic alloy (NFA) containing nm-sized Y 2Ti 2O 7 embedded precipitates in ferritic stainless steel matrix is chosen. The proposed model produces physically appearing simulated SI data sets, which can either be reduced to X-ray dot maps or analyzed via multivariate statistical analysis.more » Comparison to NFA X-ray maps acquired using three different STEM instruments match the generated simulations quite well, despite the large number of simplifying assumptions used. A figure of merit of electron dose multiplied by X-ray collection solid angle is proposed to compare feature detectability from one data set (simulated or experimental) to another. The proposed method can scope experiments that are feasible under specific analysis conditions on a given microscope. As a result, future applications, such as spallation proton–neutron irradiations, core-shell nanoparticles, or dopants in polycrystalline photovoltaic solar cells, are proposed.« less

Plasmonic and metallic optical properties of Au/SiO2 metal-insulator films

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Battie, Yann; En Naciri, Aotmane; Vergnat, Michel

2017-12-01

In this paper, the optical properties and the growth mechanism of Au/SiO2 metal-insulator films (MIFs) are investigated by combining ellipsometry and transmission electron microscopy. The ellipsometric measurements, analyzed by using effective medium theories, show that the growth mechanism involves a Volmer-Weber growth mode while the morphology and the optical properties of Au/SiO2 MIFs are directly related to the percolation of the Au nanostructures. Indeed, below the percolation threshold of Au, the MIFs consist of ellipsoidal Au inclusions embedded in a SiO2 matrix. These insulating films present anisotropic plasmonic properties, attributed to the asymmetric interactions between nanaoparticles (NPs), which can be modeled according to the interacted shape distributed nanoparticle effective medium theory. At the percolation threshold of Au, an insulator-to-metal transition is observed. The MIFs simultaneously exhibit plasmonic and metallic optical properties, which can be described by the Bruggeman theory. The density of free electrons increases and the MIFs become more and more conductive as the Au volume fraction increases. We also demonstrate that for a high Au volume fraction, Bruggeman and Maxwell Garnett theories converge toward the same results, suggesting that the film is composed of isolated SiO2 inclusion embedded in a gold matrix.

Electrochemical Dissolution of Iridium and Iridium Oxide Particles in Acidic Media: Transmission Electron Microscopy, Electrochemical Flow Cell Coupled to Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry, and X-ray Absorption Spectroscopy Study.

PubMed

Jovanovič, Primož; Hodnik, Nejc; Ruiz-Zepeda, Francisco; Arčon, Iztok; Jozinović, Barbara; Zorko, Milena; Bele, Marjan; Šala, Martin; Šelih, Vid Simon; Hočevar, Samo; Gaberšček, Miran

2017-09-13

Iridium-based particles, regarded as the most promising proton exchange membrane electrolyzer electrocatalysts, were investigated by transmission electron microscopy and by coupling of an electrochemical flow cell (EFC) with online inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. Additionally, studies using a thin-film rotating disc electrode, identical location transmission and scanning electron microscopy, as well as X-ray absorption spectroscopy have been performed. Extremely sensitive online time-and potential-resolved electrochemical dissolution profiles revealed that Ir particles dissolve well below oxygen evolution reaction (OER) potentials, presumably induced by Ir surface oxidation and reduction processes, also referred to as transient dissolution. Overall, thermally prepared rutile-type IrO 2 particles are substantially more stable and less active in comparison to as-prepared metallic and electrochemically pretreated (E-Ir) analogues. Interestingly, under OER-relevant conditions, E-Ir particles exhibit superior stability and activity owing to the altered corrosion mechanism, where the formation of unstable Ir(>IV) species is hindered. Due to the enhanced and lasting OER performance, electrochemically pre-oxidized E-Ir particles may be considered as the electrocatalyst of choice for an improved low-temperature electrochemical hydrogen production device, namely a proton exchange membrane electrolyzer.

Tracing nanoparticles and photosensitizing molecules at transmission electron microscopy by diaminobenzidine photo-oxidation.

PubMed

Malatesta, M; Pellicciari, C; Cisterna, B; Costanzo, M; Galimberti, V; Biggiogera, M; Zancanaro, C

2014-04-01

During the last three decades, diaminobenzidine photo-oxidation has been applied in a variety of studies to correlate light and electron microscopy. Actually, when a fluorophore is excited by light, it can induce the oxidation of diaminobenzidine into an electron-dense osmiophilic product, which precipitates in close proximity to the fluorophore, thereby allowing its ultrastructural detection. This method has very recently been developed for two innovative applications: tracking the fate of fluorescently labeled nanoparticles in single cells, and detecting the subcellular location of photo-active molecules suitable for photodynamic therapy. These studies established that the cytochemical procedures exploiting diaminobenzidine photo-oxidation represent a reliable tool for detecting, inside the cells, with high sensitivity fluorescing molecules. These procedures are trustworthy even if the fluorescing molecules are present in very low amounts, either inside membrane-bounded organelles, or at the surface of the plasma membrane, or free in the cytosol. In particular, diaminobenzidine photo-oxidation allowed elucidating the mechanisms responsible for nanoparticles internalization in neuronal cells and for their escape from lysosomal degradation. As for the photo-active molecules, their subcellular distribution at the ultrastructural level provided direct evidence for the lethal multiorganelle photo-damage occurring after cell photo-sensitization. In addition, DAB photo-oxidized samples are suitable for the ultrastructural detection of organelle-specific molecules by post-embedding gold immunolabeling. Copyright © 2013 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Three-dimensional reconstruction of root cells and interdental cells in the rat inner ear by serial section scanning electron microscopy.

PubMed

Shodo, Ryusuke; Hayatsu, Manabu; Koga, Daisuke; Horii, Arata; Ushiki, Tatsuo

2017-01-01

In the cochlea, a high K + environment in the endolymph is essential for the maintenance of normal hearing function, and the transport of K + ions through gap junctions of the cochlear epithelium is thought to play an important role in endolymphatic homeostasis. The aim of the present study was to demonstrate the three-dimensional (3D) ultrastructure of spiral ligament root cells and interdental cells, which are located at both ends of the gap junction system of the cochlea epithelium. Serial semi-thin sections of plastic-embedded rat cochlea were mounted on glass slides, stained with uranyl acetate and lead citrate, and observed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) using the backscattered electron (BSE) mode. 3D reconstruction of BSE images of serial sections revealed that the root cells were linked together to form a branched structure like an elaborate "tree root" in the spiral ligament. The interdental cells were also connected to each other, forming a comb-shaped cellular network with a number of cellular strands in the spiral limbus. Furthermore, TEM studies of ultra-thin sections revealed the rich presence of gap junctions in both root cells and interdental cells. These findings suggest the possibility that both root cells and interdental cells contribute to K + circulation as the end portion of the epithelial cell gap junction system of the cochlea.

Nanowires of silver-polyaniline nanocomposite synthesized via in situ polymerization and its novel functionality as an antibacterial agent.

PubMed

Tamboli, Mohaseen S; Kulkarni, Milind V; Patil, Rajendra H; Gade, Wasudev N; Navale, Shalaka C; Kale, Bharat B

2012-04-01

Silver-polyaniline (Ag-PANI) nanocomposite was synthesized by in situ polymerization method using ammonium persulfate (APS) as an oxidizing agent in the presence of dodecylbenzene sulfonic acid (DBSA) and silver nitrate (AgNO(3)). The as synthesized Ag-PANI nanocomposite was characterized by using different analytical techniques such as UV-visible (UV-vis) and Fourier transform Infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM), thermo gravimetric analysis (TGA), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). UV-visible spectra of the synthesized nanocomposite showed a sharp peak at ~420 nm corresponding to the surface plasmon resonance (SPR) of the silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) embedded in the polymer matrix which is overlapped by the polaronic peak of polyaniline appearing at that wavelength. Nanowires of Ag-PANI nanocomposite with diameter 50-70 nm were observed in FE-SEM and TEM. TGA has indicated an enhanced thermal stability of nanocomposite as compared to that of pure polymer. The Ag-PANI nanocomposite has shown an antibacterial activity against model organisms, a gram positive Bacillus subtilis NCIM 6633 in Mueller-Hinton (MH) medium, which is hitherto unattempted. The Ag-PANI nanocomposite with monodispersed AgNPs is considered to have potential applications in sensors, catalysis, batteries and electronic devices. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Facile synthesis and lithium storage properties of a porous NiSi2/Si/carbon composite anode material for lithium-ion batteries.

PubMed

Jia, Haiping; Stock, Christoph; Kloepsch, Richard; He, Xin; Badillo, Juan Pablo; Fromm, Olga; Vortmann, Britta; Winter, Martin; Placke, Tobias

2015-01-28

In this work, a novel, porous structured NiSi2/Si composite material with a core-shell morphology was successfully prepared using a facile ball-milling method. Furthermore, the chemical vapor deposition (CVD) method is deployed to coat the NiSi2/Si phase with a thin carbon layer to further enhance the surface electronic conductivity and to mechanically stabilize the whole composite structure. The morphology and porosity of the composite material was evaluated by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and nitrogen adsorption measurements (BJH analysis). The as-prepared composite material consists of NiSi2, silicon, and carbon phases, in which the NiSi2 phase is embedded in a silicon matrix having homogeneously distributed pores, while the surface of this composite is coated with a carbon layer. The electrochemical characterization shows that the porous and core-shell structure of the composite anode material can effectively absorb and buffer the immense volume changes of silicon during the lithiation/delithiation process. The obtained NiSi2/Si/carbon composite anode material displays an outstanding electrochemical performance, which gives a stable capacity of 1272 mAh g(-1) for 200 cycles at a charge/discharge rate of 1C and a good rate capability with a reversible capacity of 740 mAh g(-1) at a rate of 5C.

Imaging cellular and subcellular structure of human brain tissue using micro computed tomography

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Khimchenko, Anna; Bikis, Christos; Schweighauser, Gabriel; Hench, Jürgen; Joita-Pacureanu, Alexandra-Teodora; Thalmann, Peter; Deyhle, Hans; Osmani, Bekim; Chicherova, Natalia; Hieber, Simone E.; Cloetens, Peter; Müller-Gerbl, Magdalena; Schulz, Georg; Müller, Bert

2017-09-01

Brain tissues have been an attractive subject for investigations in neuropathology, neuroscience, and neurobiol- ogy. Nevertheless, existing imaging methodologies have intrinsic limitations in three-dimensional (3D) label-free visualisation of extended tissue samples down to (sub)cellular level. For a long time, these morphological features were visualised by electron or light microscopies. In addition to being time-consuming, microscopic investigation includes specimen fixation, embedding, sectioning, staining, and imaging with the associated artefacts. More- over, optical microscopy remains hampered by a fundamental limit in the spatial resolution that is imposed by the diffraction of visible light wavefront. In contrast, various tomography approaches do not require a complex specimen preparation and can now reach a true (sub)cellular resolution. Even laboratory-based micro computed tomography in the absorption-contrast mode of formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) human cerebellum yields an image contrast comparable to conventional histological sections. Data of a superior image quality was obtained by means of synchrotron radiation-based single-distance X-ray phase-contrast tomography enabling the visualisation of non-stained Purkinje cells down to the subcellular level and automated cell counting. The question arises, whether the data quality of the hard X-ray tomography can be superior to optical microscopy. Herein, we discuss the label-free investigation of the human brain ultramorphology be means of synchrotron radiation-based hard X-ray magnified phase-contrast in-line tomography at the nano-imaging beamline ID16A (ESRF, Grenoble, France). As an example, we present images of FFPE human cerebellum block. Hard X-ray tomography can provide detailed information on human tissues in health and disease with a spatial resolution below the optical limit, improving understanding of the neuro-degenerative diseases.

Novel hollow Pt-ZnO nanocomposite microspheres with hierarchical structure and enhanced photocatalytic activity and stability

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yu, Changlin; Yang, Kai; Xie, Yu; Fan, Qizhe; Yu, Jimmy C.; Shu, Qing; Wang, Chunying

2013-02-01

Noble metal/semiconductor nanocomposites play an important role in high efficient photocatalysis. Herein, we demonstrate a facile strategy for fabrication of hollow Pt-ZnO nanocomposite microspheres with hierarchical structure under mild solvothermal conditions using Zn (CH3COO)2.2H2O and HPtCl4 as the precursors, and polyethylene glycol-6000 (PEG-6000) and ethylene glycol as the reducing agent and solvent, respectively. The as-synthesized ZnO and Pt-ZnO composite nanocrystals were well characterized by powder X-ray diffraction (XRD), nitrogen-physical adsorption, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive X-ray (EDX), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), UV-vis diffuse reflectance spectra (DRS), and photoluminescence (PL) emission spectroscopy. It was found that Pt content greatly influences the morphology of Pt-ZnO composite nanocrystals. Suitable concentration of HPtCl4 in the reaction solution system can produce well hierarchically hollow Pt-ZnO nanocomposite microspheres, which are composed of an assembly of fine Pt-ZnO nanocrystals. Photocatalytic tests of the Pt-ZnO microspheres for the degradation of the dye acid orange II revealed extremely high photocatalytic activity and stability compared with those of pure ZnO and corresponding Pt deposited ZnO. The remarkable photocatalytic performance of hollow Pt-ZnO microspheres mainly originated from their unique nanostructures and the low recombination rate of the e-/h+ pairs by the platinum nanoparticles embedded in ZnO nanocrystals.Noble metal/semiconductor nanocomposites play an important role in high efficient photocatalysis. Herein, we demonstrate a facile strategy for fabrication of hollow Pt-ZnO nanocomposite microspheres with hierarchical structure under mild solvothermal conditions using Zn (CH3COO)2.2H2O and HPtCl4 as the precursors, and polyethylene glycol-6000 (PEG-6000) and ethylene glycol as the reducing agent and solvent, respectively. The as-synthesized ZnO and Pt-ZnO composite nanocrystals were well characterized by powder X-ray diffraction (XRD), nitrogen-physical adsorption, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive X-ray (EDX), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), UV-vis diffuse reflectance spectra (DRS), and photoluminescence (PL) emission spectroscopy. It was found that Pt content greatly influences the morphology of Pt-ZnO composite nanocrystals. Suitable concentration of HPtCl4 in the reaction solution system can produce well hierarchically hollow Pt-ZnO nanocomposite microspheres, which are composed of an assembly of fine Pt-ZnO nanocrystals. Photocatalytic tests of the Pt-ZnO microspheres for the degradation of the dye acid orange II revealed extremely high photocatalytic activity and stability compared with those of pure ZnO and corresponding Pt deposited ZnO. The remarkable photocatalytic performance of hollow Pt-ZnO microspheres mainly originated from their unique nanostructures and the low recombination rate of the e-/h+ pairs by the platinum nanoparticles embedded in ZnO nanocrystals. Electronic supplementary information (ESI) available: Fig. S1-S3. See DOI: 10.1039/c2nr33595f

Structure and Chemical Composition of Prospheroplast Envelopes of Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Hansenula anomala

PubMed Central

Darling, Sven; Theilade, Jørgen; Birch-Andersen, Aksel

1972-01-01

Cells of Saccharomyces cerevisiae and Hansenula anomala were digested with snail enzyme under conditions yielding prospheroplasts. Surrounding envelopes were isolated after lysis of prospheroplasts in distilled water. The envelope material was embedded and sectioned for electron microscopy, and thin, hollow structures still retaining the elongated form of the original cells were seen. The envelopes were of low electron density in sections stained with uranyl magnesium acetate and lead citrate, but were more electron-dense when stained with phosphotungstic acid. Shadowed preparations of prospheroplast envelopes revealed structures resembling ghosts. These “ghosts” were similar to the original cells in form and size but seemed to be very thin. Varying numbers of anular structures (bud scars) were found on them. Chemical analyses of the envelope indicated that an alkali-soluble glucan was a major constituent. The results show that the prospheroplast envelope is part of the original cell wall of the yeast and is located in close apposition to the cytoplasmic membrane. Images PMID:4552997

As-pyrolyzed sugarcane bagasse possessing exotic field emission properties

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Krishnia, Lucky; Yadav, Brajesh S.; Palnitkar, Umesh; Satyam, P. V.; Gupta, Bipin Kumar; Koratkar, Nikhil A.; Tyagi, Pawan K.

2018-06-01

The present study aims to demonstrate the application of sugarcane bagasse as an excellent field emitter. Field emission property of as-pyrolyzed sugarcane bagasse (p-SBg) before and after the plasma treatment has been investigated. It has been observed that electronic nature of p-SBg transformed from semiconducting to metallic after plasma treatment. Maximum current and turn-on field defined at 10 μA/cm2 was found to be 800 μA/cm2 and 2.2 V/μm for as-pyrolyzed sugarcane bagasse (p-SBg) and 25 μA/cm2 and 8.4 V/μm for H2-plasma treated p-SBg. These values are found to be better than the reported values for graphene and activated carbon. In this report, pyrolysis of bagasse has been carried in a thermal chemical vapor deposition (Th-CVD) system in inert argon atmosphere. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray Diffraction (XRD), High-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) have been used to study the structure of both pre and post plasma-treated p-SBg bagasse's sample. HRTEM study reveals that carbonaceous structures such as 3D-nanographene oxide (3D-NGO), graphite nanodots (GNDs), carbon nanotubes (CNTs), and carbon onions are present in both pre-treated and plasma-treated p-SBg. Hence, we envision that the performed study will be a forwarding step to facilitate the application of p-SBg in display devices.

Radio-Tomographic Images of Post-midnight Equatorial Plasma Depletions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hei, M. A.; Bernhardt, P. A.; Siefring, C. L.; Wilkens, M.; Huba, J. D.; Krall, J.; Valladares, C. E.; Heelis, R. A.; Hairston, M. R.; Coley, W. R.; Chau, J. L.

2013-12-01

For the first time, post-midnight equatorial plasma depletions (EPDs) have been imaged in the longitude-altitude plane using radio-tomography. High-resolution (~10 km × 10 km) electron-density reconstructions were created from total electron content (TEC) data using an array of receivers sited in Peru and the Multiplicative Algebraic Reconstruction Technique (MART) inversion algorithm. TEC data were obtained from the 150 and 400 MHz signals transmitted by the CERTO beacon on the C/NOFS satellite. In-situ electron density data from the C/NOFS CINDI instrument and electron density profiles from the UML Jicamarca ionosonde were used to generate an initial guess for the MART inversion, and also to constrain the inversion process. Observed EPDs had widths of 100-1000 km, spacings of 300-900 km, and often appeared 'pinched off' at the bottom. Well-developed EPDs appeared on an evening with a very small (4 m/s) Pre-Reversal-Enhancement (PRE), suggesting that postmidnight enhancements of the vertical plasma drift and/or seeding-induced uplifts (e.g. gravity waves) were responsible for driving the Rayleigh-Taylor Instability into the nonlinear regime on this night. On another night the Jicamarca ISR recorded postmidnight (~0230 LT) Eastward electric fields nearly twice as strong as the PRE fields seven hours earlier. These electric fields lifted the whole ionosphere, including embedded EPDs, over a longitude range ~14° wide. CINDI detected a dawn depletion in exactly the area where the reconstruction showed an uplifted EPD. Strong Equatorial Spread-F observed by the Jicamarca ionosonde during receiver observation times confirmed the presence of ionospheric irregularities.

Effects of alloy heat treatment on oxidation kinetics and scale morphology for Crofer 22 APU

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Magdefrau, Neal J.; Chen, Lei; Sun, Ellen Y.; Aindow, Mark

2013-11-01

The effect of alloy heat treatment on the oxidation kinetics and oxide scale microstructure of Crofer 22 APU has been studied. Parabolic oxidation rate constants were measured for the as-received alloy and after pre-oxidation heat treatment in argon at 1050 °C for 1 and 4 h. The oxide scale microstructure was investigated using scanning electron microscopy, focused ion beam milling and transmission electron microscopy. It was found that the alloy forms a two-layer scale with a continuous chromia layer and a discontinuous MnCr2O4 overlayer. Two forms of internal oxides were also formed: subscale pockets of spinel and isolated TiOx precipitates in the underlying alloy. The pre-oxidation heat treatment had a profound effect on the grain size and morphology of the Cr2O3 and MnCr2O4 layers in the scale. The heat-treated samples exhibit a 3.5× lower parabolic oxidation rate constant than the as-received Crofer 22 APU. This improvement in oxidation resistance is attributed to the dramatic differences in the morphology of the oxide scale that forms during the earliest stages of oxidation (<5 h). The implications of these findings for oxidation mechanisms and long-term SOFC performance are discussed.

Lateral ordering of PTCDA on the clean and the oxygen pre-covered Cu(100) surface investigated by scanning tunneling microscopy and low energy electron diffraction.

PubMed

Gärtner, Stefan; Fiedler, Benjamin; Bauer, Oliver; Marele, Antonela; Sokolowski, Moritz M

2014-01-01

We have investigated the adsorption of perylene-3,4,9,10-tetracarboxylic acid dianhydride (PTCDA) on the clean and on the oxygen pre-covered Cu(100) surface [referred to as (√2 × 2√2)R45° - 2O/Cu(100)] by scanning tunneling microscopy (STM) and low energy electron diffraction (LEED). Our results confirm the (4√2 × 5√2)R45° superstructure of PTCDA/Cu(100) reported by A. Schmidt et al. [J. Phys. Chem. 1995, 99,11770-11779]. However, contrary to Schmidt et al., we have no indication for a dissociation of the PTCDA upon adsorption, and we propose a detailed structure model with two intact PTCDA molecules within the unit cell. Domains of high lateral order are obtained, if the deposition is performed at 400 K. For deposition at room temperature, a significant density of nucleation defects is found pointing to a strong interaction of PTCDA with Cu(100). Quite differently, after preadsorption of oxygen and formation of the (√2 × 2√2)R45° - 2O/Cu(100) superstructure on Cu(100), PTCDA forms an incommensurate monolayer with a structure that corresponds well to that of PTCDA bulk lattice planes.

Structure of a Venezuelan equine encephalitis virus assembly intermediate isolated from infected cells

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

Lamb, Kristen; Lokesh, G.L.; Sherman, Michael

2010-10-25

Venezuelan equine encephalitis virus (VEEV) is a prototypical enveloped ssRNA virus of the family Togaviridae. To better understand alphavirus assembly, we analyzed newly formed nucleocapsid particles (termed pre-viral nucleocapsids) isolated from infected cells. These particles were intermediates along the virus assembly pathway, and ultimately bind membrane-associated viral glycoproteins to bud as mature infectious virus. Purified pre-viral nucleocapsids were spherical with a unimodal diameter distribution. The structure of one class of pre-viral nucleocapsids was determined with single particle reconstruction of cryo-electron microscopy images. These studies showed that pre-viral nucleocapsids assembled into an icosahedral structure with a capsid stoichiometry similar to themore » mature nucleocapsid. However, the individual capsomers were organized significantly differently within the pre-viral and mature nucleocapsids. The pre-viral nucleocapsid structure implies that nucleocapsids are highly plastic and undergo glycoprotein and/or lipid-driven rearrangements during virus self-assembly. This mechanism of self-assembly may be general for other enveloped viruses.« less

How Hedstrom files fail during clinical use? A retrieval study based on SEM, optical microscopy and micro-XCT analysis.

PubMed

Zinelis, Spiros; Al Jabbari, Youssef S

2018-05-01

This study was conducted to evaluate the failure mechanism of clinically failed Hedstrom (H)-files. Discarded H-files (n=160) from #8 to #40 ISO sizes were collected from different dental clinics. Retrieved files were classified according to their macroscopic appearance and they were investigated under scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and X-ray micro-computed tomography (mXCT). Then the files were embedded in resin along their longitudinal axis and after metallographic grinding and polishing, studied under an incident light microscope. The macroscopic evaluation showed that small ISO sizes (#08-#15) failed by extensive plastic deformation, while larger sizes (≥#20) tended to fracture. Light microscopy and mXCT results coincided showing that unused and plastically deformed files were free of internal defects, while fractured files demonstrate the presence of intense cracking in the flute region. SEM analysis revealed the presence of striations attributed to the fatigue mechanism. Secondary cracks were also identified by optical microscopy and their distribution was correlated to fatigue under bending loading. Experimental results demonstrated that while overloading of cutting instruments is the predominating failure mechanism of small file sizes (#08-#15), fatigue should be considered the fracture mechanism for larger sizes (≥#20).

Direct Visualization of the Outer Membrane of Mycobacteria and Corynebacteria in Their Native State▿ †

PubMed Central

Zuber, Benoît; Chami, Mohamed; Houssin, Christine; Dubochet, Jacques; Griffiths, Gareth; Daffé, Mamadou

2008-01-01

The cell envelope of mycobacteria, which include the causative agents of tuberculosis and leprosy, is crucial for their success as pathogens. Despite a continued strong emphasis on identifying the multiple chemical components of this envelope, it has proven difficult to combine its components into a comprehensive structural model, primarily because the available ultrastructural data rely on conventional electron microscopy embedding and sectioning, which are known to induce artifacts. The existence of an outer membrane bilayer has long been postulated but has never been directly observed by electron microscopy of ultrathin sections. Here we have used cryo-electron microscopy of vitreous sections (CEMOVIS) to perform a detailed ultrastructural analysis of three species belonging to the Corynebacterineae suborder, namely, Mycobacterium bovis BCG, Mycobacterium smegmatis, and Corynebacterium glutamicum, in their native state. We provide new information that accurately describes the different layers of the mycobacterial cell envelope and challenges current models of the organization of its components. We show a direct visualization of an outer membrane, analogous to that found in gram-negative bacteria, in the three bacterial species examined. Furthermore, we demonstrate that mycolic acids, the hallmark of mycobacteria and related genera, are essential for the formation of this outer membrane. In addition, a granular layer and a low-density zone typifying the periplasmic space of gram-positive bacteria are apparent in CEMOVIS images of mycobacteria and corynebacteria. Based on our observations, a model of the organization of the lipids in the outer membrane is proposed. The architecture we describe should serve as a reference for future studies to relate the structure of the mycobacterial cell envelope to its function. PMID:18567661

Direct visualization of the outer membrane of mycobacteria and corynebacteria in their native state.

PubMed

Zuber, Benoît; Chami, Mohamed; Houssin, Christine; Dubochet, Jacques; Griffiths, Gareth; Daffé, Mamadou

2008-08-01

The cell envelope of mycobacteria, which include the causative agents of tuberculosis and leprosy, is crucial for their success as pathogens. Despite a continued strong emphasis on identifying the multiple chemical components of this envelope, it has proven difficult to combine its components into a comprehensive structural model, primarily because the available ultrastructural data rely on conventional electron microscopy embedding and sectioning, which are known to induce artifacts. The existence of an outer membrane bilayer has long been postulated but has never been directly observed by electron microscopy of ultrathin sections. Here we have used cryo-electron microscopy of vitreous sections (CEMOVIS) to perform a detailed ultrastructural analysis of three species belonging to the Corynebacterineae suborder, namely, Mycobacterium bovis BCG, Mycobacterium smegmatis, and Corynebacterium glutamicum, in their native state. We provide new information that accurately describes the different layers of the mycobacterial cell envelope and challenges current models of the organization of its components. We show a direct visualization of an outer membrane, analogous to that found in gram-negative bacteria, in the three bacterial species examined. Furthermore, we demonstrate that mycolic acids, the hallmark of mycobacteria and related genera, are essential for the formation of this outer membrane. In addition, a granular layer and a low-density zone typifying the periplasmic space of gram-positive bacteria are apparent in CEMOVIS images of mycobacteria and corynebacteria. Based on our observations, a model of the organization of the lipids in the outer membrane is proposed. The architecture we describe should serve as a reference for future studies to relate the structure of the mycobacterial cell envelope to its function.

Ultrastructural Analysis of Different Human Mesenchymal Stem Cells After in Vitro Expansion: A Technical Review

PubMed Central

Danišovič, Ľ.; Majidi, A.; Varga, I.

2015-01-01

Transmission electron microscopy reveals ultrastructural details of cells, and it is a valuable method for studying cell organelles. That is why we used this method for detailed morphological description of different adult tissue-derived stem cells, focusing on the morphological signs of their functions (proteosynthetic activity, exchange with external environment, etc.) and their comparison. Preparing a specimen from the cell culture suitable for transmission electron microscopy is, however, much more challenging than routine tissue processing for normal histological examination. There are several issues that need to be solved while working with cell pellets instead of solid tissue. Here we describe a simple protocol for the isolation and culture of mesenchymal stem cells from different adult tissues, with applications to stem cell biology and regenerative medicine. Since we are working with population of cells that was obtained after many days of passaging, very efficient and gentle procedures are highly necessary. We demonstrated that our semi-conservative approach regarding to histological techniques and processing of cells for transmission electron microscopy is a well reproducible procedure which results in quality pictures and images of cell populations with minimum distortions and artifacts. We also commented about riskiest steps and histochemical issues (e.g., precise pH, temperature) while preparing the specimen. We bring full and detailed procedures of fixation, post-fixation, infiltration, embedding, polymerization and contrasting of cell obtained from in vitro cell and tissue cultures, with modifications according to our experience. All this steps are essential for us to know more about adult stem cells derived from different sources or about other random cell populations. The knowledge about detailed ultra-structure of adult stem cells cultured in vitro are also essential for their using in regenerative medicine and tissue engineering. PMID:26708176

Fungus-mediated biological synthesis of gold nanoparticles: potential in detection of liver cancer

PubMed Central

Chauhan, Arun; Zubair, Swaleha; Tufail, Saba; Sherwani, Asif; Sajid, Mohammad; Raman, Suri C; Azam, Amir; Owais, Mohammad

2011-01-01

Background Nanomaterials are considered to be the pre-eminent component of the rapidly advancing field of nanotechnology. However, developments in the biologically inspired synthesis of nanoparticles are still in their infancy and consequently attracting the attention of material scientists throughout the world. Keeping in mind the fact that microorganism-assisted synthesis of nanoparticles is a safe and economically viable prospect, in the current study we report Candida albicans-mediated biological synthesis of gold nanoparticles. Methods and results Transmission electron microscopy, atomic force microscopy, and various spectrophotometric analyses were performed to characterize the gold nanoparticles. The morphology of the synthesized gold particles depended on the abundance of C. albicans cytosolic extract. Transmission electron microscopy, nanophox particle analysis, and atomic force microscopy revealed the size of spherical gold nanoparticles to be in the range of 20–40 nm and nonspherical gold particles were found to be 60–80 nm. We also evaluated the potential of biogenic gold nanoparticles to probe liver cancer cells by conjugating them with liver cancer cell surface-specific antibodies. The antibody-conjugated gold particles were found to bind specifically to the surface antigens of the cancer cells. Conclusion The antibody-conjugated gold particles synthesized in this study could successfully differentiate normal cell populations from cancerous cells. PMID:22072868

Metal (Ag/Ti)-Containing Hydrogenated Amorphous Carbon Nanocomposite Films with Enhanced Nanoscratch Resistance: Hybrid PECVD/PVD System and Microstructural Characteristics.

PubMed

Constantinou, Marios; Nikolaou, Petros; Koutsokeras, Loukas; Avgeropoulos, Apostolos; Moschovas, Dimitrios; Varotsis, Constantinos; Patsalas, Panos; Kelires, Pantelis; Constantinides, Georgios

2018-03-30

This study aimed to develop hydrogenated amorphous carbon thin films with embedded metallic nanoparticles (a-C:H:Me) of controlled size and concentration. Towards this end, a novel hybrid deposition system is presented that uses a combination of Plasma Enhanced Chemical Vapor Deposition (PECVD) and Physical Vapor Deposition (PVD) technologies. The a-C:H matrix was deposited through the acceleration of carbon ions generated through a radio-frequency (RF) plasma source by cracking methane, whereas metallic nanoparticles were generated and deposited using terminated gas condensation (TGC) technology. The resulting material was a hydrogenated amorphous carbon film with controlled physical properties and evenly dispersed metallic nanoparticles (here Ag or Ti). The physical, chemical, morphological and mechanical characteristics of the films were investigated through X-ray reflectivity (XRR), Raman spectroscopy, Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM), Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) and nanoscratch testing. The resulting amorphous carbon metal nanocomposite films (a-C:H:Ag and a-C:H:Ti) exhibited enhanced nanoscratch resistance (up to +50%) and low values of friction coefficient (<0.05), properties desirable for protective coatings and/or solid lubricant applications. The ability to form nanocomposite structures with tunable coating performance by potentially controlling the carbon bonding, hydrogen content, and the type/size/percent of metallic nanoparticles opens new avenues for a broad range of applications in which mechanical, physical, biological and/or combinatorial properties are required.

Fossilized microorganisms from the Emperor Seamounts: implications for the search for a subsurface fossil record on Earth and Mars.

PubMed

Ivarsson, M; Lausmaa, J; Lindblom, S; Broman, C; Holm, N G

2008-12-01

We have observed filamentous carbon-rich structures in samples drilled at 3 different seamounts that belong to the Emperor Seamounts in the Pacific Ocean: Detroit (81 Ma), Nintoku (56 Ma), and Koko Seamounts (48 Ma). The samples consist of low-temperature altered basalts recovered from all 3 seamounts. The maximum depth from which the samples were retrieved was 954 meters below seafloor (mbsf). The filamentous structures occur in veins and fractures in the basalts, where they are attached to the vein walls and embedded in vein-filling minerals like calcite, aragonite, and gypsum. The filaments were studied with a combination of optical microscopy, environmental scanning electron microscopy (ESEM), Raman spectroscopy, and time-of-flight secondary ion mass spectrometry (ToF-SIMS). Minerals were identified by a combination of optical microscopy, X-ray diffraction, Raman spectrometry, and energy dispersive spectrometry on an environmental scanning electron microscope. Carbon content of the filaments ranges between approximately 10 wt % and approximately 50 wt % and is not associated with carbonates. These results indicate an organic origin of the carbon. The presence of C(2)H(4), phosphate, and lipid-like molecules in the filaments further supports a biogenic origin. We also found microchannels in volcanic glass enriched in carbon (approximately 10-40 wt %) compatible with putative microbial activity. Our findings suggest new niches for life in subseafloor environments and have implications for further exploration of the subseafloor biosphere on Earth and beyond.

Fossilized Microorganisms from the Emperor Seamounts: Implications for the Search for a Subsurface Fossil Record on Earth and Mars

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ivarsson, M.; Lausmaa, J.; Lindblom, S.; Broman, C.; Holm, N. G.

2008-12-01

We have observed filamentous carbon-rich structures in samples drilled at 3 different seamounts that belong to the Emperor Seamounts in the Pacific Ocean: Detroit (81 Ma), Nintoku (56 Ma), and Koko Seamounts (48 Ma). The samples consist of low-temperature altered basalts recovered from all 3 seamounts. The maximum depth from which the samples were retrieved was 954 meters below seafloor (mbsf). The filamentous structures occur in veins and fractures in the basalts, where they are attached to the vein walls and embedded in vein-filling minerals like calcite, aragonite, and gypsum. The filaments were studied with a combination of optical microscopy, environmental scanning electron microscopy (ESEM), Raman spectroscopy, and time-of-flight secondary ion mass spectrometry (ToF-SIMS). Minerals were identified by a combination of optical microscopy, X-ray diffraction, Raman spectrometry, and energy dispersive spectrometry on an environmental scanning electron microscope. Carbon content of the filaments ranges between ˜10 wt % and ˜50 wt % and is not associated with carbonates. These results indicate an organic origin of the carbon. The presence of C2H4, phosphate, and lipid-like molecules in the filaments further supports a biogenic origin. We also found microchannels in volcanic glass enriched in carbon (˜10 40 wt %) compatible with putative microbial activity. Our findings suggest new niches for life in subseafloor environments and have implications for further exploration of the subseafloor biosphere on Earth and beyond.

Disruption of Desmin-Mitochondrial Architecture in Patients with Regurgitant Mitral Valves and Preserved Ventricular Function

PubMed Central

Soorappan, Rajasekaran Namakkal; Ahmad, Shama; Mariappan, Nithya; Litovsky, Silvio; Gupta, Himanshu; Lloyd, Steven G; Denney, Thomas S; Powell, Pamela Cox; Aban, Inmaculada; Collawn, James; Davies, James E; McGiffin, David C; Dell’Italia, Louis J

2016-01-01

Objective Recent studies have demonstrated improved outcomes in patients receiving early surgery for degenerative mitral valvular regurgitation (MR) rather than adhering to conventional guidelines for surgical intervention. However, studies providing a mechanistic basis for these findings are limited. Methods Left ventricular (LV) myocardium from 22 patients undergoing mitral valve repair for Class I indications was evaluated for desmin, the voltage-dependent anion channel, αβ-crystallin, and α, β unsaturated aldehyde 4-hydroxynonelal by fluorescence microscopy and in 6 normal control LV autopsy specimens. Cardiomyocyte ultrastructure was examined by transmission electron microscopy. Magnetic resonance imaging with tissue tagging was performed in 55 normal subjects and 22 MR patients pre- and 6 months post-mitral valve repair. Results LV end-diastolic volume was 1.5-fold (p<0.0001) higher and LV mass to volume ratio was lower in MR (p=0.004) vs. normal and improvement six months after mitral valve surgery. However, LV ejection fraction decreased from 65 ± 7 to 52 ± 9% (p<0.0001) and LV circumferential (p<0.0001) and longitudinal strain decreased significantly below normal values (p=0.002) post-surgery. MR hearts had a 53% decrease in desmin (p<0.0001) and a 2.6-fold increase in desmin aggregates (p<0.0001) vs. normal along with significant, intense perinuclear staining of α, β unsaturated aldehyde 4-hydroxynonelal in areas of mitochondrial breakdown and clustering. Transmission electron microscopy demonstrated numerous electron dense deposits, myofibrillar loss, Z-line abnormalities and extensive granulofilamentous debris identified as desmin positive by immunogold transmission electron microscopy. Conclusion Despite well-preserved preoperative LV ejection fraction, severe oxidative stress and disruption of cardiomyocyte desmin-mitochondrial sarcomeric architecture may explain post-operative LV functional decline and further supports the move toward earlier surgical intervention. PMID:27464577

Configuration of twins in glass-embedded silver nanoparticles of various origin

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hofmeister, H.; Dubiel, M.; Tan, G. L.; Schicke, K.-D.

2005-09-01

Structural characterization using high resolution electron microscopy and diffractogram analysis of silver nanoparticles embedded in glass by various routes of fabrication was aimed at revealing the characteristic features of twin faults occuring in such particles. Nearly spherical silver nanoparticles well below 10 nm size embedded in commercial soda-lime silicate float glass have been fabricated either by silver/sodium ion exchange or by Ag+ ion implantation. Twinned nanoparticles, besides single crystalline species, have frequently been observed for both fabrication routes, mainly at sizes above 5 nm, but also at smaller sizes, even around 1 nm. The variety of particle forms comprises single crystalline particles of nearly cuboctahedron shape, particles containing single twin faults, and multiply twinned particles containing parallel twin lamellae, or cyclic twinned segments arranged around axes of fivefold symmetry. Parallel twinning is distinctly favoured by ion implantation whereas cyclic twinning preferably occurs upon ion exchange processing. Regardless of single or repeated twinning, parallel or cyclic twin arrangement, one may classify simple twin faults of regular atomic configuration and compound twin faults whose irregular configuration consists of additional planar defects like associated stacking faults or secondary twin faults. Besides, a particular superstructure composed of parallel twin lamellae of only three atomic layers thickness is observed.

Effects of a Pre-Recorded Parent-Child Shared Reading Intervention on At-Risk Preschool Children's Phonological Awareness Skills

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Noe, Sean

2012-01-01

Two studies were conducted to examine the effects of an embedded parent-child shared reading intervention on children's phonological awareness skills. Seven children considered at-risk for reading difficulty listened to 6 pre-recorded children's books with embedded early literacy activities three times each with a parent. Children's…

InN/InGaN dot-in-a-wire nanostructures emitting at 1.55 µm

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chen, Qiming; Yan, Changling; Qu, Yi

2017-03-01

The room temperature photoluminescence emission at 1.55 µm from InN/In0.7Ga0.3N dot-in-nanowire heterostructures, which was grown on self-assembled GaN nanowires on Si (1 1 1) under N-rich condition by plasma assisted molecular beam epitaxy, has been clarified in this paper. The morphology of the nanowires was uniform along the c-axis as proved by scanning electron microscope, each of the nanowires was grown individually and homogeneously without any coalescence phenomenon respectively. The nanowires dispersed on a silicon substrate showed very clear InN dot-in-nanowire structure by high resolution transmission electron microscopy. The structural properties of the individual InGaN nanocolumn were further investigated by high-angle annular dark field image analysis and energy dispersive x-ray spectrum, which confirmed the successful growth of InN quantum dot embedded in InGaN nanowire.

Calcium aluminate coated and uncoated free form fabricated CoCr implants: a comparative study in rabbit.

PubMed

Palmquist, A; Jarmar, T; Hermansson, L; Emanuelsson, L; Taylor, A; Taylor, M; Engqvist, H; Thomsen, P

2009-10-01

The purpose of this study was to compare the integration in bone of uncoated free form fabricated cobalt chromium (CoCr) implants to the same implant with a calcium aluminate coating. The implants of cylindrical design with a pyramidal surface structure were press-fit into the limbs of New Zealand white rabbits. After 6 weeks, the rabbits were sacrificed, and samples were retrieved and embedded. Ground sections were subjected to histological analysis and histomorphometry. The section counter part was used for preparing an electron transparent transmission electron microscopy sample by focused ion beam milling. Calcium aluminate dip coating provided a significantly greater degree of bone contact than that of the native CoCr. The gibbsite hydrate formed in the hardening reaction of the calcium aluminate was found to be the exclusive crystalline phase material in direct contact with bone. (c) 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Cryo-EM structure of haemoglobin at 3.2 Å determined with the Volta phase plate

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Khoshouei, Maryam; Radjainia, Mazdak; Baumeister, Wolfgang; Danev, Radostin

2017-06-01

With the advent of direct electron detectors, the perspectives of cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) have changed in a profound way. These cameras are superior to previous detectors in coping with the intrinsically low contrast and beam-induced motion of radiation-sensitive organic materials embedded in amorphous ice, and hence they have enabled the structure determination of many macromolecular assemblies to atomic or near-atomic resolution. Nevertheless, there are still limitations and one of them is the size of the target structure. Here, we report the use of a Volta phase plate in determining the structure of human haemoglobin (64 kDa) at 3.2 Å. Our results demonstrate that this method can be applied to complexes that are significantly smaller than those previously studied by conventional defocus-based approaches. Cryo-EM is now close to becoming a fast and cost-effective alternative to crystallography for high-resolution protein structure determination.

GaN@ZIF-8: selective formation of gallium nitride quantum dots inside a zinc methylimidazolate framework.

PubMed

Esken, Daniel; Turner, Stuart; Wiktor, Christian; Kalidindi, Suresh Babu; Van Tendeloo, Gustaaf; Fischer, Roland A

2011-10-19

The microporous zeolitic imidazolate framework [Zn(MeIM)(2); ZIF-8; MeIM = imidazolate-2-methyl] was quantitatively loaded with trimethylamine gallane [(CH(3))(3)NGaH(3)]. The obtained inclusion compound [(CH(3))(3)NGaH(3)]@ZIF-8 reveals three precursor molecules per host cavity. Treatment with ammonia selectively yields the caged cyclotrigallazane intermediate (H(2)GaNH(2))(3)@ZIF-8, and further annealing gives GaN@ZIF-8. This new composite material was characterized with FT-IR spectroscopy, solid-state NMR spectroscopy, powder X-ray diffraction, elemental analysis, (scanning) transmission electron microscopy combined with electron energy-loss spectroscopy, photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy, and N(2) sorption measurements. The data give evidence for the presence of GaN nanoparticles (1-3 nm) embedded in the cavities of ZIF-8, including a blue-shift of the PL emission band caused by the quantum size effect.

Ag-Cu nanoalloyed film as a high-performance cathode electrocatalytic material for zinc-air battery

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lei, Yimin; Chen, Fuyi; Jin, Yachao; Liu, Zongwen

2015-04-01

A novel Ag50Cu50 film electrocatalyst for oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) was prepared by pulsed laser deposition (PLD) method. The electrocatalyst actually is Ag-Cu alloyed nanoparticles embedded in amorphous Cu film, based on transmission electron microscopy (TEM) characterization. The rotating disk electrode (RDE) measurements provide evidence that the ORR proceed via a four-electron pathway on the electrocatalysts in alkaline solution. And it is much more efficient than pure Ag catalyst. The catalytic layer has maximum power density of 67 mW cm-2 and an acceptable cell voltage at 0.863 V when current densities increased up to 100 mA cm-2 in the Ag50Cu50-based primary zinc-air battery. The resulting rechargeable zinc-air battery exhibits low charge-discharge voltage polarization of 1.1 V at 20 mAcm-2 and high durability over 100 cycles in natural air.

He-Ion Microscopy as a High-Resolution Probe for Complex Quantum Heterostructures in Core-Shell Nanowires.

PubMed

Pöpsel, Christian; Becker, Jonathan; Jeon, Nari; Döblinger, Markus; Stettner, Thomas; Gottschalk, Yeanitza Trujillo; Loitsch, Bernhard; Matich, Sonja; Altzschner, Marcus; Holleitner, Alexander W; Finley, Jonathan J; Lauhon, Lincoln J; Koblmüller, Gregor

2018-06-13

Core-shell semiconductor nanowires (NW) with internal quantum heterostructures are amongst the most complex nanostructured materials to be explored for assessing the ultimate capabilities of diverse ultrahigh-resolution imaging techniques. To probe the structure and composition of these materials in their native environment with minimal damage and sample preparation calls for high-resolution electron or ion microscopy methods, which have not yet been tested on such classes of ultrasmall quantum nanostructures. Here, we demonstrate that scanning helium ion microscopy (SHeIM) provides a powerful and straightforward method to map quantum heterostructures embedded in complex III-V semiconductor NWs with unique material contrast at ∼1 nm resolution. By probing the cross sections of GaAs-Al(Ga)As core-shell NWs with coaxial GaAs quantum wells as well as short-period GaAs/AlAs superlattice (SL) structures in the shell, the Al-rich and Ga-rich layers are accurately discriminated by their image contrast in excellent agreement with correlated, yet destructive, scanning transmission electron microscopy and atom probe tomography analysis. Most interestingly, quantitative He-ion dose-dependent SHeIM analysis of the ternary AlGaAs shell layers and of compositionally nonuniform GaAs/AlAs SLs reveals distinct alloy composition fluctuations in the form of Al-rich clusters with size distributions between ∼1-10 nm. In the GaAs/AlAs SLs the alloy clustering vanishes with increasing SL-period (>5 nm-GaAs/4 nm-AlAs), providing insights into critical size dimensions for atomic intermixing effects in short-period SLs within a NW geometry. The straightforward SHeIM technique therefore provides unique benefits in imaging the tiniest nanoscale features in topography, structure and composition of a multitude of diverse complex semiconductor nanostructures.

The surface topography of the choroid plexus. Environmental, low and high vacuum scanning electron microscopy.

PubMed

Mestres, Pedro; Pütz, Norbert; Garcia Gómez de Las Heras, Soledad; García Poblete, Eduardo; Morguet, Andrea; Laue, Michael

2011-05-01

Environmental scanning electron microscopy (ESEM) allows the examination of hydrated and dried specimens without a conductive metal coating which could be advantageous in the imaging of biological and medical objects. The aim of this study was to assess the performance and benefits of wet-mode and low vacuum ESEM in comparison to high vacuum scanning electron microscopy (SEM) using the choroid plexus of chicken embryos as a model, an organ of the brain involved in the formation of cerebrospinal fluid in vertebrates. Specimens were fixed with or without heavy metals and examined directly or after critical point drying with or without metal coating. For wet mode ESEM freshly excised specimens without any pre-treatment were also examined. Conventional high vacuum SEM revealed the characteristic morphology of the choroid plexus cells at a high resolution and served as reference. With low vacuum ESEM of dried but uncoated samples the structure appeared well preserved but charging was a problem. It could be reduced by a short beam dwell time and averaging of images or by using the backscattered electron detector instead of the gaseous secondary electron detector. However, resolution was lower than with conventional SEM. Wet mode imaging was only possible with tissue that had been stabilized by fixation. Not all surface details (e.g. microvilli) could be visualized and other structures, like the cilia, were deformed. In summary, ESEM is an additional option for the imaging of bio-medical samples but it is problematic with regard to resolution and sample stability during imaging. Copyright © 2011 Elsevier GmbH. All rights reserved.

Research of Adhesion Bonds Between Gas-Thermal Coating and Pre-Modified Base

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kovalevskaya, Z.; Zaitsev, K.; Klimenov, V.

2016-08-01

Nature of adhesive bonds between gas-thermal nickel alloy coating and carbon steel base was examined using laser profilometry, optical metallography, transmission and scanning electron microscopy. The steel surface was plastically pre-deformed by an ultrasonic tool. Proved that ultrasound pre-treatment modifies the steel surface. Increase of dislocation density and formation of sub micro-structure are base elements of surface modification. While using high-speed gas-flame, plasma and detonation modes of coatings, surface activation occurs and durable adhesion is formed. Ultrasonic pre-treatment of base material is effective when sprayed particles and base material interact through physical-chemical bond formation. Before applying high-speed gas flame and plasma sprayed coatings, authors recommend ultrasonic pretreatment, which creates periodic wavy topography with a stroke of 250 microns on the steel surface. Before applying detonation sprayed coatings, authors recommend ultrasound pretreatment that create modified surface with a uniform micro-topography.

Composite embedded fiber optic data links in Standard Electronic Modules

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ehlers, S. L.; Jones, K. J.; Morgan, R. E.; Hixson, Jay

1990-12-01

The goal of this project is to fabricate a chassis/circuit card demonstration entirely 'wired' with embedded and interconnected optical fibers. Graphite/epoxy Standard Electronic Module E (SEM-E) configured panels have been successfully fabricated. Fiber-embedded SEM-E configured panels have been subjected to simultaneous signal transmission and vibration testing. Packaging constraints will require tapping composite-embedded optical fibers at right angles to the direction of optical transmission.

Stocks, Flows, and Distribution of Critical Metals in Embedded Electronics in Passenger Vehicles.

PubMed

Restrepo, Eliette; Løvik, Amund N; Wäger, Patrick; Widmer, Rolf; Lonka, Radek; Müller, Daniel B

2017-02-07

One of the major applications of critical metals (CMs) is in electrical and electronic equipment (EEE), which is increasingly embedded in other products, notably passenger vehicles. However, recycling strategies for future CM quantities in end-of-life vehicles (ELVs) are poorly understood, mainly due to a limited understating of the complexity of automotive embedded EEE. We introduce a harmonization of the network structure of automotive electronics that enables a comprehensive quantification of CMs in all embedded EEE in a vehicle. This network is combined with a material flow analysis along the vehicle lifecycle in Switzerland to quantify the stocks and flows of Ag, Au, Pd, Ru, Dy, La, Nd, and Co in automotive embedded EEE. In vehicles in use, we calculated 5 -2 +3 t precious metals in controllers embedded in all vehicle types and 220 -60 +90 t rare earth elements (REE); found mainly in five electric motors: alternator, starter, radiator-fan and electronic power steering motor embedded in conventional passenger vehicles and drive motor/generator embedded in hybrid and electric vehicles. Dismantling these devices before ELV shredding, as well as postshredder treatment of automobile shredder residue may increase the recovery of CMs from ELVs. Environmental and economic implications of such recycling strategies must be considered.

The ultrastructural characterization of mitochondria-rich cells as a response to variations in salinity in two types of teleostean pseudobranch: milkfish (Chanos chanos) and Mozambique tilapia (Oreochromis mossambicus).

PubMed

Yang, Sheng-Hui; Tsai, Jeng-Dau; Kang, Chao-Kai; Yang, Wen-Kai; Kung, Hsiu-Ni; Lee, Tsung-Han

2017-03-01

The pseudobranchs of two euryhaline teleost species, the milkfish (Chanos chanos) and the Mozambique tilapia (Oreochromis mossambicus), were studied after acclimization to different salinities using optical and electron microscopy. The milkfish pseudobranch was the lamellae-free type, with separate lamellae along the filaments containing two groups of mitochondria (Mt)-rich cells: chloride cells (CCs) and pseudobranch type cells (PSCs). Conversely, the tilapia pseudobranch was the embedded type, covered with connective tissues and with only one group of Mt-rich PSCs. Chloride cells were identified according to the apical openings and branched tubular networks around randomly distributed and diversely shaped Mt. Pseudobranchs type cells, however, were characterized according to the orderly arrangement of parallel tubules around closely packed Mt; both the tubules and the Mt were distributed in the vascular side of the cell, but were absent from the apical region. Compared with those of seawater (SW)-acclimated milkfish, the pseudobranchial lamellae of freshwater (FW) specimens were longer on average, and the Mt of the CCs had fewer cristae, were less electron-dense, and were often vacuolated. The Mt in the PSCs of FW-acclimated milkfish and tilapia were larger and more electron-dense than those of their SW-acclimated counterparts; in addition, more tubules were found to aggregately surround the Mt and basolateral membranes in the PSCs of fish from the hypo-osmotic environment. Conversely, the PSCs of tilapia were periodic acid-Schiff (PAS)-positive, and Mt in PSCs were concentrated with more parallel arrays of the tubule system than those of milkfish. Therefore, salinity-dependent changes in the ultrastructures of PSCs suggest their potential role in energy metabolism of both lamellae-free and embedded pseudobranchs, whereas the PAS-positive staining characteristics suggest a role in releasing or storaging polysaccharides in the embedded pseudobranch. J. Morphol. 278:390-402, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Controlling self-assembly of diphenylalanine peptides at high pH using heterocyclic capping groups

PubMed Central

Martin, Adam D.; Wojciechowski, Jonathan P.; Robinson, Andrew B.; Heu, Celine; Garvey, Christopher J.; Ratcliffe, Julian; Waddington, Lynne J.; Gardiner, James; Thordarson, Pall

2017-01-01

Using small angle neutron scattering (SANS), it is shown that the existence of pre-assembled structures at high pH for a capped diphenylalanine hydrogel is controlled by the selection of N-terminal heterocyclic capping group, namely indole or carbazole. At high pH, changing from a somewhat hydrophilic indole capping group to a more hydrophobic carbazole capping group results in a shift from a high proportion of monomers to self-assembled fibers or wormlike micelles. The presence of these different self-assembled structures at high pH is confirmed through NMR and circular dichroism spectroscopy, scanning probe microscopy and cryogenic transmission electron microscopy. PMID:28272523

Electron Beam Welding of IN792 DS: Effects of Pass Speed and PWHT on Microstructure and Hardness.

PubMed

Angella, Giuliano; Barbieri, Giuseppe; Donnini, Riccardo; Montanari, Roberto; Richetta, Maria; Varone, Alessandra

2017-09-05

Electron Beam (EB) welding has been used to realize seams on 2 mm-thick plates of directionally solidified (DS) IN792 superalloy. The first part of this work evidenced the importance of pre-heating the workpiece to avoid the formation of long cracks in the seam. The comparison of different pre-heating temperatures (PHT) and pass speeds ( v ) allowed the identification of optimal process parameters, namely PHT = 300 °C and v = 2.5 m/min. The microstructural features of the melted zone (MZ); the heat affected zone (HAZ), and base material (BM) were investigated by optical microscopy (OM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersion spectroscopy (EDS), electron back-scattered diffraction (EBSD), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and micro-hardness tests. In the as-welded condition; the structure of directionally oriented grains was completely lost in MZ. The γ' phase in MZ consisted of small (20-40 nm) round shaped particles and its total amount depended on both PHT and welding pass speed, whereas in HAZ, it was the same BM. Even if the amount of γ' phase in MZ was lower than that of the as-received material, the nanometric size of the particles induced an increase in hardness. EDS examinations did not show relevant composition changes in the γ' and γ phases. Post-welding heat treatments (PWHT) at 700 and 750 °C for two hours were performed on the best samples. After PWHTs, the amount of the ordered phase increased, and the effect was more pronounced at 750 °C, while the size of γ' particles in MZ remained almost the same. The hardness profiles measured across the joints showed an upward shift, but peak-valley height was a little lower, indicating more homogeneous features in the different zones.

From Voxels to Knowledge: A Practical Guide to the Segmentation of Complex Electron Microscopy 3D-Data

PubMed Central

Tsai, Wen-Ting; Hassan, Ahmed; Sarkar, Purbasha; Correa, Joaquin; Metlagel, Zoltan; Jorgens, Danielle M.; Auer, Manfred

2014-01-01

Modern 3D electron microscopy approaches have recently allowed unprecedented insight into the 3D ultrastructural organization of cells and tissues, enabling the visualization of large macromolecular machines, such as adhesion complexes, as well as higher-order structures, such as the cytoskeleton and cellular organelles in their respective cell and tissue context. Given the inherent complexity of cellular volumes, it is essential to first extract the features of interest in order to allow visualization, quantification, and therefore comprehension of their 3D organization. Each data set is defined by distinct characteristics, e.g., signal-to-noise ratio, crispness (sharpness) of the data, heterogeneity of its features, crowdedness of features, presence or absence of characteristic shapes that allow for easy identification, and the percentage of the entire volume that a specific region of interest occupies. All these characteristics need to be considered when deciding on which approach to take for segmentation. The six different 3D ultrastructural data sets presented were obtained by three different imaging approaches: resin embedded stained electron tomography, focused ion beam- and serial block face- scanning electron microscopy (FIB-SEM, SBF-SEM) of mildly stained and heavily stained samples, respectively. For these data sets, four different segmentation approaches have been applied: (1) fully manual model building followed solely by visualization of the model, (2) manual tracing segmentation of the data followed by surface rendering, (3) semi-automated approaches followed by surface rendering, or (4) automated custom-designed segmentation algorithms followed by surface rendering and quantitative analysis. Depending on the combination of data set characteristics, it was found that typically one of these four categorical approaches outperforms the others, but depending on the exact sequence of criteria, more than one approach may be successful. Based on these data, we propose a triage scheme that categorizes both objective data set characteristics and subjective personal criteria for the analysis of the different data sets. PMID:25145678

A SIMPLE TUMBLING DEVICE USED IN PREPARING ALGAL SPECIMENS FOR ELECTRON MICROSCOPY.

PubMed

Berlagnolli, B L; Nadakavukaren, M J

1969-06-01

Screw cap vials are held in a wooden holder which rotates at a 90° angle to the horizontal. The. shaft of a small electric motor with built-in gear box is attached perpendicularly to the wooden vial holder via a hole drilled in the center of the wooden holder. The rotation of the vial holder is about 6 rpm. This motion ensures a thorough tumbling of the contents of the vials. Even viscous embedding media are kept in constant agitation, which provides for superior penetration of the tissue. Tumbling devices to hold a range of vial sizes can be constructed with a minimum of labor at a cost of $10-20 each.

Tunneling spectroscopy measurements on hydrogen-bonded supramolecular polymers.

PubMed

Vonau, François; Shokri, Roozbeh; Aubel, Dominique; Bouteiller, Laurent; Guskova, Olga; Sommer, Jens-Uwe; Reiter, Günter; Simon, Laurent

2014-07-21

We studied the formation of hydrogen-bonded supramolecular polymers of Ethyl Hexyl Urea Toluene (EHUT) on a gold (111) surface by low temperature scanning tunneling microscopy. Tunneling spectroscopy performed along an individual molecule embedded in a self-assembled layer revealed strong changes in the value of the HOMO-LUMO gap. A variation of the LUMO state is attributed to the effect of space charge accumulation resulting from anisotropic adhesion of the molecule. In addition, for specific tunneling conditions, changes induced through the formation of hydrogen bonds became visible in the differential conductance (dI/dV) maps; isolated molecules, hydrogen bonded dimers and supramolecular polymers of EHUT were distinguishable through their electronic properties.

Sponge-like Si-SiO2 nanocomposite—Morphology studies of spinodally decomposed silicon-rich oxide

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Friedrich, D.; Schmidt, B.; Heinig, K. H.; Liedke, B.; Mücklich, A.; Hübner, R.; Wolf, D.; Kölling, S.; Mikolajick, T.

2013-09-01

Sponge-like Si nanostructures embedded in SiO2 were fabricated by spinodal decomposition of sputter-deposited silicon-rich oxide with a stoichiometry close to that of silicon monoxide. After thermal treatment a mean feature size of about 3 nm was found in the phase-separated structure. The structure of the Si-SiO2 nanocomposite was investigated by energy-filtered transmission electron microscopy (EFTEM), EFTEM tomography, and atom probe tomography, which revealed a percolated Si morphology. It was shown that the percolation of the Si network in 3D can also be proven on the basis of 2D EFTEM images by comparison with 3D kinetic Monte Carlo simulations.

Characterization of hybrid cobalt-porous silicon systems: protective effect of the Matrix in the metal oxidation

PubMed Central

2012-01-01

In the present work, the characterization of cobalt-porous silicon (Co-PSi) hybrid systems is performed by a combination of magnetic, spectroscopic, and structural techniques. The Co-PSi structures are composed by a columnar matrix of PSi with Co nanoparticles embedded inside, as determined by Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM). The oxidation state, crystalline structure, and magnetic behavior are determined by X-Ray Absorption Spectroscopy (XAS) and Alternating Gradient Field Magnetometry (AGFM). Additionally, the Co concentration profile inside the matrix has been studied by Rutherford Backscattering Spectroscopy (RBS). It is concluded that the PSi matrix can be tailored to provide the Co nanoparticles with extra protection against oxidation. PMID:22938050

Nanometric study of nickel oxide prepared by sol gel process

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dessai, R. Raut; Desa, J. A. E.; Sen, D.; Babu, P. D.

2018-04-01

Nickel oxide nanopowder was synthesized by sol gel method using nickel nitrate as the starting material. Nickel oxide nanoparticles with a grain size of 15-90 nm have been studied by; small angle neutron scattering; scanning electron microscopy; and vibrating sample magnetometry. A combination of Ferro and paramagnetic behaviour of the particles after calcination at 800 °C is observed while for powder calcined at 400 °C, soft magnetic character with saturation is seen. The system of nanoparticles ofNiO embedded in a silica matrix is also studied for the structural change. Weak magnetic ordering is observed in this case with the likely-hood of particles being evenly distributed in the silica.

Thermodynamic confinement and alpha-helix persistence length in poly(gamma-benzyl-L-glutamate)-b-poly(dimethyl siloxane)-b-poly(gamma-benzyl-L-glutamate) triblock copolymers.

PubMed

Papadopoulos, P; Floudas, G; Schnell, I; Lieberwirth, I; Nguyen, T Q; Klok, H-A

2006-02-01

The structure and the associated dynamics of a series of poly(gamma-benzyl-L-glutamate)-b-poly(dimethyl siloxane)-b-poly(gamma-benzyl-L-glutamate) (PBLG-b-PDMS-b-PBLG) triblock copolymers were investigated using small- and wide-angle X-ray scattering, NMR, transmission electron microscopy, and dielectric spectroscopy, respectively. The structural analysis revealed phase separation in the case of the longer blocks with defected alpha-helical segments embedded within the block copolymer nanodomains. The alpha-helical persistence length was found to depend on the degree of segregation; thermodynamic confinement and chain stretching results in the partial annihilation of helical defects.

Tunneling spectroscopy measurements on hydrogen-bonded supramolecular polymers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vonau, François; Shokri, Roozbeh; Aubel, Dominique; Bouteiller, Laurent; Guskova, Olga; Sommer, Jens-Uwe; Reiter, Günter; Simon, Laurent

2014-06-01

We studied the formation of hydrogen-bonded supramolecular polymers of Ethyl Hexyl Urea Toluene (EHUT) on a gold (111) surface by low temperature scanning tunneling microscopy. Tunneling spectroscopy performed along an individual molecule embedded in a self-assembled layer revealed strong changes in the value of the HOMO-LUMO gap. A variation of the LUMO state is attributed to the effect of space charge accumulation resulting from anisotropic adhesion of the molecule. In addition, for specific tunneling conditions, changes induced through the formation of hydrogen bonds became visible in the differential conductance (dI/dV) maps; isolated molecules, hydrogen bonded dimers and supramolecular polymers of EHUT were distinguishable through their electronic properties.

Fossil diatoms imply common cometary origin of space-dust and the Polonnaruwa meteorite

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Miyake, N.; Wallis, M. K.; Wickramasinghe, N. C.

2013-09-01

IDPs collected in 2001 at 40km altitude by cryosamplers studied via scanning electron microscopy and EDX were found to contain siliceous fibres and whiskers, some isolated but often embedded in a mineral matrix. The newly-arrived Polonnaruwa meteorite gives strong evidence for the hypothesis that they are fragments of diatoms agglomerating on solar system icy bodies. Diatom frustules and even whole diatom skeletons are identifiable within the meteorite. Specimens of a siliceous exoskeleton with multiple spines/whiskers have also been found, thought to be freshwater diatoms. As diatoms are dependent on a source of nitrogenous organics, the siliceous whiskers within IDPs would be an indicator of a photosynthesizing ecosystem, probably on a comet.

Coinfection of a bearded dragon, Pogona vitticeps, with adenovirus- and dependovirus-like viruses.

PubMed

Jacobson, E R; Kopit, W; Kennedy, F A; Funk, R S

1996-05-01

Four neonate bearded dragons, Pogona vitticeps, from two collections became ill and died. Multiple tissues were collected and processed for light microscopy. In hematoxylin and eosin-stained sections of liver of one lizard, numerous basophilic intranuclear inclusions were observed. In three lizards, intranuclear inclusions were primarily seen within enterocytes in the small intestine. A portion of paraffin-embedded liver of one lizard and small intestine of a second lizard were removed, deparaffinized, and examined by electron microscopy. For the most part, inclusions in the liver consisted of nonenveloped viral particles 60-66 nm in diameter. Smaller nonenveloped virions 15-17 nm in diameter were occasionally seen in association with these particles. In the intestine, inclusions consisted only of 60-70 nm particles. Based on morphology and location, the larger particles were consistent with an adenovirus. Based on size and presence within nuclei of host cells coinfected with the adenovirus-like virus, the smaller viral agent was consistent with members of the genus Dependovirus.

Antimicrobial Activity Evaluation on Silver Doped Hydroxyapatite/Polydimethylsiloxane Composite Layer.

PubMed

Ciobanu, C S; Groza, A; Iconaru, S L; Popa, C L; Chapon, P; Chifiriuc, M C; Hristu, R; Stanciu, G A; Negrila, C C; Ghita, R V; Ganciu, M; Predoi, D

2015-01-01

The goal of this study was the preparation, physicochemical characterization, and microbiological evaluation of novel hydroxyapatite doped with silver/polydimethylsiloxane (Ag:HAp-PDMS) composite layers. In the first stage, the deposition of polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) polymer layer on commercially pure Si disks has been produced in atmospheric pressure corona discharges. Finally, the new silver doped hydroxyapatite/polydimethylsiloxane composite layer has been obtained by the thermal evaporation technique. The Ag:HAp-PDMS composite layers were characterized by various techniques, such as Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Glow Discharge Optical Emission Spectroscopy (GDOES), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The antimicrobial activity of the Ag:HAp-PDMS composite layer was assessed against Candida albicans ATCC 10231 (ATCC-American Type Culture Collection) by culture based and confirmed by SEM and Confocal Laser Scanning Microscopy (CLSM) methods. This is the first study reporting the antimicrobial effect of the Ag:HAp-PDMS composite layer, which proved to be active against Candida albicans biofilm embedded cells.

Antimicrobial Activity Evaluation on Silver Doped Hydroxyapatite/Polydimethylsiloxane Composite Layer

PubMed Central

Ciobanu, C. S.; Groza, A.; Iconaru, S. L.; Popa, C. L.; Chapon, P.; Chifiriuc, M. C.; Hristu, R.; Stanciu, G. A.; Negrila, C. C.; Ghita, R. V.; Ganciu, M.; Predoi, D.

2015-01-01

The goal of this study was the preparation, physicochemical characterization, and microbiological evaluation of novel hydroxyapatite doped with silver/polydimethylsiloxane (Ag:HAp-PDMS) composite layers. In the first stage, the deposition of polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) polymer layer on commercially pure Si disks has been produced in atmospheric pressure corona discharges. Finally, the new silver doped hydroxyapatite/polydimethylsiloxane composite layer has been obtained by the thermal evaporation technique. The Ag:HAp-PDMS composite layers were characterized by various techniques, such as Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Glow Discharge Optical Emission Spectroscopy (GDOES), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The antimicrobial activity of the Ag:HAp-PDMS composite layer was assessed against Candida albicans ATCC 10231 (ATCC—American Type Culture Collection) by culture based and confirmed by SEM and Confocal Laser Scanning Microscopy (CLSM) methods. This is the first study reporting the antimicrobial effect of the Ag:HAp-PDMS composite layer, which proved to be active against Candida albicans biofilm embedded cells. PMID:26504849

EM connectomics reveals axonal target variation in a sequence-generating network

PubMed Central

Narayanan, Rajeevan T; Svara, Fabian; Egger, Robert; Oberlaender, Marcel; Denk, Winfried; Long, Michael A

2017-01-01

The sequential activation of neurons has been observed in various areas of the brain, but in no case is the underlying network structure well understood. Here we examined the circuit anatomy of zebra finch HVC, a cortical region that generates sequences underlying the temporal progression of the song. We combined serial block-face electron microscopy with light microscopy to determine the cell types targeted by HVC(RA) neurons, which control song timing. Close to their soma, axons almost exclusively targeted inhibitory interneurons, consistent with what had been found with electrical recordings from pairs of cells. Conversely, far from the soma the targets were mostly other excitatory neurons, about half of these being other HVC(RA) cells. Both observations are consistent with the notion that the neural sequences that pace the song are generated by global synaptic chains in HVC embedded within local inhibitory networks. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.7554/eLife.24364.001 PMID:28346140

Imaging of cardiovascular structures using near-infrared femtosecond multiphoton laser scanning microscopy.

PubMed

Schenke-Layland, Katja; Riemann, Iris; Stock, Ulrich A; König, Karsten

2005-01-01

Multiphoton imaging represents a novel and very promising medical diagnostic technology for the high-resolution analysis of living biological tissues. We performed multiphoton imaging to analyzed structural features of extracellular matrix (ECM) components, e.g., collagen and elastin, of vital pulmonary and aortic heart valves. High-resolution autofluorescence images of collagenous and elastic fibers were demonstrated using multifluorophore, multiphoton excitation at two different wavelengths and optical sectioning, without the requirement of embedding, fixation, or staining. Collagenous structures were selectively imaged by detection of second harmonic generation (SHG). Additionally, routine histology and electron microscopy were integrated to verify the observed results. In comparison with pulmonary tissues, aortic heart valve specimens show very similar matrix formations. The quality of the resulting three-dimensional (3-D) images enabled the differentiation between collagenous and elastic fibers. These experimental results indicate that multiphoton imaging with near-infrared (NIR) femtosecond laser pulses may prove to be a useful tool for the nondestructive monitoring and characterization of cardiovascular structures. Copyright 2005 Society of Photo-Optical Instrumentation Engineers.

A combined method for correlative 3D imaging of biological samples from macro to nano scale

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kellner, Manuela; Heidrich, Marko; Lorbeer, Raoul-Amadeus; Antonopoulos, Georgios C.; Knudsen, Lars; Wrede, Christoph; Izykowski, Nicole; Grothausmann, Roman; Jonigk, Danny; Ochs, Matthias; Ripken, Tammo; Kühnel, Mark P.; Meyer, Heiko

2016-10-01

Correlative analysis requires examination of a specimen from macro to nano scale as well as applicability of analytical methods ranging from morphological to molecular. Accomplishing this with one and the same sample is laborious at best, due to deformation and biodegradation during measurements or intermediary preparation steps. Furthermore, data alignment using differing imaging techniques turns out to be a complex task, which considerably complicates the interconnection of results. We present correlative imaging of the accessory rat lung lobe by combining a modified Scanning Laser Optical Tomography (SLOT) setup with a specially developed sample preparation method (CRISTAL). CRISTAL is a resin-based embedding method that optically clears the specimen while allowing sectioning and preventing degradation. We applied and correlated SLOT with Multi Photon Microscopy, histological and immunofluorescence analysis as well as Transmission Electron Microscopy, all in the same sample. Thus, combining CRISTAL with SLOT enables the correlative utilization of a vast variety of imaging techniques.

Optimization of Immobilization of Nanodiamonds on Graphene

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pille, A.; Lange, S.; Utt, K.; Eltermann, M.

2015-04-01

We report using simple dip-coating method to cover the surface of graphene with nanodiamonds for future optical detection of defects on graphene. Most important part of the immobilization process is the pre-functionalization of both, nanodiamond and graphene surfaces to obtain the selectiveness of the method. This work focuses on an example of using electrostatic attraction to confine nanodiamonds to graphene. Raman spectroscopy, microluminescence imaging and scanning electron microscopy were applied to characterize obtained samples.

Deposition and Characterization of Hermetic, Biocompatible Thin Film Coatings for Implantable, Electrically Active Devices

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sweitzer, Robyn K.

Retinal prostheses may be used to support patients suffering from Age-related macular degeneration or retinitis pigmentosa. A hermetic encapsulation of the poly(imide )-based prosthesis is important in order to prevent the leakage of water and ions into the electric circuitry embedded in the poly(imide) matrix. The deposition of amorphous aluminum oxide (by sputtering) and diamond like carbon (by pulsed laser ablation and vacuum arc vapor deposition) were studied for the application in retinal prostheses. The resulting thin films were characterized for composition, thickness, adhesion and smoothness by scanning electron microscopy-energy dispersive spectroscopy, atomic force microscopy, profilometry and light microscopy. Electrical stability was evaluated and found to be good. The as-deposited films prevented incursion of salinated fluids into the implant over two (2) three month trials soaking in normal saline at body temperature, Biocompatibility was tested in vivo by implanting coated specimen subretinally in the eye of Yucatan pigs. While amorphous aluminum oxide is more readily deposited with sufficient adhesion quality, biocompatibility studies showed a superior behavior of diamond-like carbon. Amorphous aluminum oxide had more adverse effects and caused more severe damage to the retinal tissue.

In Situ Synthesis of Metal Nanoparticle Embedded Hybrid Soft Nanomaterials.

PubMed

Divya, Kizhmuri P; Miroshnikov, Mikhail; Dutta, Debjit; Vemula, Praveen Kumar; Ajayan, Pulickel M; John, George

2016-09-20

The allure of integrating the tunable properties of soft nanomaterials with the unique optical and electronic properties of metal nanoparticles has led to the development of organic-inorganic hybrid nanomaterials. A promising method for the synthesis of such organic-inorganic hybrid nanomaterials is afforded by the in situ generation of metal nanoparticles within a host organic template. Due to their tunable surface morphology and porosity, soft organic materials such as gels, liquid crystals, and polymers that are derived from various synthetic or natural compounds can act as templates for the synthesis of metal nanoparticles of different shapes and sizes. This method provides stabilization to the metal nanoparticles by the organic soft material and advantageously precludes the use of external reducing or capping agents in many instances. In this Account, we exemplify the green chemistry approach for synthesizing these materials, both in the choice of gelators as soft material frameworks and in the reduction mechanisms that generate the metal nanoparticles. Established herein is the core design principle centered on conceiving multifaceted amphiphilic soft materials that possess the ability to self-assemble and reduce metal ions into nanoparticles. Furthermore, these soft materials stabilize the in situ generated metal nanoparticles and retain their self-assembly ability to generate metal nanoparticle embedded homogeneous organic-inorganic hybrid materials. We discuss a remarkable example of vegetable-based drying oils as host templates for metal ions, resulting in the synthesis of novel hybrid nanomaterials. The synthesis of metal nanoparticles via polymers and self-assembled materials fabricated via cardanol (a bioorganic monomer derived from cashew nut shell liquid) are also explored in this Account. The organic-inorganic hybrid structures were characterized by several techniques such as UV-visible spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Utilization of silver nanoparticle-based hybrid nanomaterials as an antimicrobial material is another illustration of the advantage of hybrid nanomaterials. We envision that the results summarized in this Account will help the scientific community to design and develop diverse organic-inorganic hybrid materials using environmentally benign methods and that these materials will yield advanced properties that have multifaceted applications in various research fields.

Synthesis and characterization of P-doped amorphous and nanocrystalline Si

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

Wang, Jialing; Ganguly, Shreyashi; Sen, Sabyasachi

Intentional impurity doping lies at the heart of the silicon technology. The dopants provide electrons or holes as necessary carriers of the electron current and can significantly modify the electric, optical and magnetic properties of the semiconductors. P-doped amorphous Si (a-Si) was prepared by a solid state and solution metathesis reaction of a P-doped Zintl phase precursor, NaSi 0.99P 0.01, with an excess of NH 4X (X = Br, I). After the salt byproduct was removed from the solid state reaction, the a-Si material was annealed at 600 °C under vacuum for 2 h, resulting in P-doped nanocrystalline Si (nc-Si)more » material embedded in a-Si matrix. The product from the solution reaction also shows a combination of nc-Si embedded in a-Si; however, it was fully converted to nc-Si after annealing under argon at 650 °C for 30 min. Powder X-ray diffraction (XRD) and high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) show the amorphous nature of the P-doped Si material before the annealing and the nanocrystallinity after the annealing. Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy shows that the P-doped Si material surface is partially capped by H and O or with solvent. Finally, electron microprobe wavelength dispersive spectroscopy (WDS) as well as energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) confirm the presence of P in the Si material. 29Si and 31P solid state magic-angle-spinning nuclear magnetic resonance (MAS NMR) spectroscopy data provide the evidence of P doping into the Si structure with the P concentration of approximately 0.07 at.%.« less

Determination of pre-cecal phosphorus digestibility of inorganic phosphates and bone meal products in broilers.

PubMed

van Harn, J; Spek, J W; van Vuure, C A; van Krimpen, M M

2017-05-01

A broiler study was performed to determine the pre-cecal phosphorus (P) digestibility of 5 P sources, 3 from animal (Delfos, Calfos, and porcine bone meal) and 2 of inorganic (monocalcium phosphate [MCP] and dicalcium phosphate [DCP]) origin. Delfos is processed from bones resulting in a dicalcium phosphate product, and Calfos is processed from bones in which part of the gelatin is removed but in which the hydroxy-apatite matrix is preserved. During the first 14 d, birds were housed in floor pens bedded with wood shavings and received a commercial starter diet. At d 14, broilers were randomly assigned to pens (0.9 m2, 10 birds/pen) with a slatted floor. From d 14 onwards, one of the 6 experimental diets (a basal diet, and 5 diets containing the P sources) was provided. Test diets were replicated 6 times, and the basal diet 8 times. Electron microscopy images of test products were made in order to verify whether the spatial structure of the test products could be related to the pre-cecal P digestibility of the same products. Diets met or exceeded CVB (2011) requirements for all nutrients except for P and were formulated to contain a calcium to total P ratio of between 1.4 and 1.6 and a minimal amount of phytate P. Diets contained 5 g/kg titanium oxide as a marker to determine digestibility of P. At d 24 all birds were euthanized, after which the content of the terminal part of the ileum was sampled. The P digestibility was calculated by linear regression according to World's Poultry Science Association (WPSA) protocol for determination of pre-cecal P digestibility. Pre-cecal P digestibility of MCP, DCP, Delfos, Calfos, and porcine bone meal was 88.5, 82.4, 94.5, 86.9, and 78.2%, respectively. Based on visual inspection of electron microscopy images of test products, the spatial structure of the test products might be related to P digestibility. It is concluded that processing of bone meal increases the pre-cecal P digestibility in broilers. © The Author 2017. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of Poultry Science Association.

Osseointegration of a 3D Printed Stemmed Titanium Dental Implant: A Pilot Study

PubMed Central

Tedesco, James; Lee, Bryan E. J.; Lin, Alex Y. W.; Binkley, Dakota M.; Delaney, Kathleen H.; Kwiecien, Jacek M.

2017-01-01

In this pilot study, a 3D printed Grade V titanium dental implant with a novel dual-stemmed design was investigated for its biocompatibility in vivo. Both dual-stemmed (n = 12) and conventional stainless steel conical (n = 4) implants were inserted into the tibial metaphysis of New Zealand white rabbits for 3 and 12 weeks and then retrieved with the surrounding bone, fixed, dehydrated, and embedded into epoxy resin. The implants were analyzed using correlative histology, microcomputed tomography, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The histological presence of multinucleated osteoclasts and cuboidal osteoblasts revealed active bone remodeling in the stemmed implant starting at 3 weeks and by 12 weeks in the conventional implant. Bone-implant contact values indicated that the stemmed implants supported bone growth along the implant from the coronal crest at both 3- and 12-week time periods and showed bone growth into microporosities of the 3D printed surface after 12 weeks. In some cases, new bone formation was noted in between the stems of the device. Conventional implants showed mechanical interlocking but did have indications of stress cracking and bone debris. This study demonstrates the comparable biocompatibility of these 3D printed stemmed implants in rabbits up to 12 weeks. PMID:29527226

Role of indium tin oxide electrode on the microstructure of self-assembled WO3-BiVO4 hetero nanostructures

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Song, Haili; Li, Chao; Van, Chien Nguyen; Dong, Wenxia; Qi, Ruijuan; Zhang, Yuanyuan; Huang, Rong; Chu, Ying-Hao; Duan, Chun-Gang

2017-11-01

Self-assembled WO3-BiVO4 nanostructured thin films were grown on a (001) yttrium stabilized zirconia (YSZ) substrate by the pulsed laser deposition method with and without the indium tin oxide (ITO) bottom electrode. Their microstructures including surface morphologies, crystalline phases, epitaxial relationships, interface structures, and composition distributions were investigated by scanning electron microscopy, high-resolution transmission electron microscopy, and X-ray energy dispersive spectroscopy. In both samples, WO3 formed nanopillars embedded into the monoclinic BiVO4 matrix with specific orientation relationships. In the sample with the ITO bottom electrode, an atomically sharp BiVO4/ITO interface was formed and the orthorhombic WO3 nanopillars were grown on a relaxed BiVO4 buffer layer with a mixed orthorhombic and hexagonal WO3 transition layer. In contrast, a thin amorphous layer appears at the interfaces between the thin film and the YSZ substrate in the sample without the ITO electrode. In addition, orthorhombic Bi2WO6 lamellar nanopillars were formed between WO3 and BiVO4 due to interdiffusion. Such a WO3-Bi2WO6-BiVO4 double heterojunction photoanode may promote the photo-generated charge separation and further improve the photoelectrochemical water splitting properties.

XRD, Electron Microscopy and Vibrational Spectroscopy Characterization of Simulated SB6 HLW Glasses - 13028

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

Stefanovsky, S.V.; Institute of Physical Chemistry and Electrochemistry RAS, Leninskii av. 31, Moscow 119991; Nikonov, B.S.

2013-07-01

Sample glasses have been made using SB6 high level waste (HLW) simulant (high in both Al and Fe) with 12 different frit compositions at a constant waste loading of 36 wt.%. As follows from X-ray diffraction (XRD) and optical and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) data, all the samples are composed of primarily glass and minor concentration of spinel phases which form both isometric grains and fine cubic (∼1 μm) crystals. Infrared spectroscopy (IR) spectra of all the glasses within the range of 400-1600 cm{sup -1} consist of the bands due to stretching and bending modes in silicon-oxygen, boron-oxygen, aluminum-oxygen andmore » iron-oxygen structural groups. Raman spectra showed that for the spectra of all the glasses within the range of 850-1200 cm{sup -1} the best fit is achieved by suggestion of overlapping of three major components with maxima at 911-936 cm{sup -1}, 988-996 cm{sup -1} and 1020-1045 cm{sup -1}. The structural network is primarily composed of metasilicate chains and rings with embedded AlO{sub 4} and FeO{sub 4} tetrahedra. Major BO{sub 4} tetrahedra and BO{sub 3} triangles form complex borate units and are present as separate constituents. (authors)« less

An improved method of crafting a multi-electrode spiral cuff for the selective.

PubMed

Rozman, Janez; Pečlin, Polona; Ribarič, Samo; Godec, Matjaž; Burja, Jaka

2018-01-17

This article reviews an improved methodology and technology for crafting a multi-electrode spiral cuff for the selective activation of nerve fibres in particular superficial regions of a peripheral nerve. The analysis, structural and mechanical properties of the spot welds used for the interconnections between the stimulating electrodes and stainless-steel lead wires are presented. The cuff consisted of 33 platinum electrodes embedded within a self-curling 17-mm-long silicone spiral sheet with a nominal internal diameter of 2.5 mm. The weld was analyzed using scanning electron microscopy and nanohardness tests, while the interconnection was investigated using destructive load tests. The functionality of the cuff was tested in an isolated porcine vagus nerve. The results of the scanning electron microscopy show good alloying and none of the typical welding defects that occur between the wire and the platinum foil. The results of the destructive load tests show that the breaking loads were between 3.22 and 5 N. The results of the nanohardness testing show that the hardness of the weld was different for the particular sites on the weld sample. Finally, the results of the functional testing show that for different stimulation intensities both the compound action potential deflection and the shape are modulated.

High-yield aqueous synthesis of multi-branched iron oxide core-gold shell nanoparticles: SERS substrate for immobilization and magnetic separation of bacteria

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tamer, Ugur; Onay, Aykut; Ciftci, Hakan; Bozkurt, Akif Göktuğ; Cetin, Demet; Suludere, Zekiye; Hakkı Boyacı, İsmail; Daniel, Philippe; Lagarde, Fabienne; Yaacoub, Nader; Greneche, Jean-Marc

2014-10-01

The high product yield of multi-branched core-shell Fe3- x O4@Au magnetic nanoparticles was synthesized used as magnetic separation platform and surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) substrates. The multi-branched magnetic nanoparticles were prepared by a seed-mediated growth approach using magnetic gold nanospheres as the seeds and subsequent reduction of metal salt with ascorbic acid in the presence of a stabilizing agent chitosan biopolymer and silver ions. The anisotropic growth of nanoparticles was observed in the presence of chitosan polymer matrix resulting in multi-branched nanoparticles with a diameter over 100 nm, and silver ions also play a crucial role on the growth of multi-branched nanoparticles. We propose the mechanism of the formation of multi-branched nanoparticles while the properties of nanoparticles embedded in chitosan matrix are discussed. The surface morphology of nanoparticles was characterized with transmission electron microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, ultraviolet visible spectroscopy (UV-Vis), X-ray diffraction, and fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and 57Fe Mössbauer spectrometry. Additionally, the magnetic properties of the nanoparticles were also examined. We also demonstrated that the synthesized Fe3- x O4@Au multi-branched nanoparticle is capable of targeted separation of pathogens from matrix and sensing as SERS substrates.

Kinetics and pathways for crystallization of amorphous mullite and YAG

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Johnson, Bradley Richard

The crystallization behavior of quenched mullite (3Al2O 3•2SiO2) and YAG (Y3Al5O 12) composition glasses (made using containerless methods) were characterized with the ultimate goal of producing single crystal, structural, ceramic oxide fibers from these materials. The kinetics for crystallization were determined from thermal analysis experiments. From the results, time-temperature-transformation (TTT) curves were calculated. The crystallization pathways were determined by examining the crystal structure, microstructure, and chemical composition of heat treated specimens using x-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). A machine was also designed and built to facilitate controlled crystallization of amorphous fibers. Quenched, Y3Al5O12 composition beads crystallized at temperatures as low as 840°C. The as-received specimens contained a few, small YAG crystals, in addition to a mixture of different amorphous phases. The coexistence of two different amorphous phases of the same composition, but having different densities is termed polyamorphism, and this has been reported to occur in Y3Al5O12 composition quenched melts. Although various crystallization pathways have been reported for chemically synthesized YAG precursors, these specimens crystallized directly into YAG, which was the only phase formed. Quenched, 3Al2O3•2SiO2 composition mullite beads and fibers crystallized at temperatures as low as 920°C. Due to phase separation in the quenched melts, multiple phases with slightly different compositions and different crystallization activation energies crystallized. These phases were not equilibrium, 3:2 mullite, but metastable, alumina-rich, pseudotetragonal mullite. The residual, amorphous, silica-rich phase existed as numerous, 7--10 nm sized inclusions embedded within pseudotetragonal mullite. A large amount of internal strain was detected in pseudotetragonal mullite, and the source of this strain was suggested to be the embedded, silica-rich inclusions. Pseudotetragonal mullite gradually converted to equilibrium, orthorhombic, 3:2 mullite between 1000--1400°C. This was characterized by assimilation of the embedded, silica-rich inclusions and the elimination of internal strain. Additionally, recrystallization of numerous, small, strain- and inclusion-free, 3:2 mullite grains was observed to occur as the process proceeded to completion.

Graphene on silicon dioxide via carbon ion implantation in copper with PMMA-free transfer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lehnert, Jan; Spemann, Daniel; Hamza Hatahet, M.; Mändl, Stephan; Mensing, Michael; Finzel, Annemarie; Varga, Aron; Rauschenbach, Bernd

2017-06-01

In this work, a synthesis method for the growth of low-defect large-area graphene using carbon ion beam implantation into metallic Cu foils is presented. The Cu foils (1 cm2 in size) were pre-annealed in a vacuum at 950 °C for 2 h, implanted with 35 keV carbon ions at room temperature, and subsequently annealed at 850 °C for 2 h to form graphene layers with the layer number controlled by the implantation fluence. The graphene was then transferred to SiO2/Si substrates by a PMMA-free wet chemical etching process. The obtained regions of monolayer graphene are of ˜900 μm size. Raman spectroscopy, atomic force microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and optical microscopy performed at room temperature demonstrated a good quality and homogeneity of the graphene layers, especially for monolayer graphene.

Degradation of Spacesuit Fabrics in Low Earth Orbit

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gaier, James R.; Baldwin, Sammantha M.; Folz, Angela D.; Waters, Deborah L.; McCue, Terry R.; Jaworske, Donald A.; Clark, Gregory W.; Rogers, Kerry J.; Batman, Brittany; Bruce, John;

Structure and dynamics of AMPA receptor GluA2 in resting, pre-open and desensitized states

PubMed Central

Dürr, Katharina L.; Chen, Lei; Stein, Richard A.; De Zorzi, Rita; MihaelaFolea, I.; Walz, Thomas; Mchaourab, Hassane S.; Gouaux, Eric

2014-01-01

Summary Ionotropic glutamate receptors (iGluRs) mediate the majority of fast excitatory signaling in the nervous system. Despite the profound importance of iGluRs in the nervous system, little is known about the structures and dynamics of intact receptors in distinct functional states. Here we elucidate the structures of the intact GluA2 AMPA receptor in an apo resting/closed state, in an activated/pre-open state bound with the partial agonists and a positive allosteric modulator and in a desensitized/closed state in complex with FW alone. To probe the conformational properties of these states, we carried out double electron-electron resonance experiments on cysteine mutants and cryo-electron microscopy studies. We show how agonist binding modulates the conformation of the ligand binding domain 'layer' of the intact receptors and how, upon desensitization, the receptor undergoes large conformational rearrangements of amino-terminal and ligand-binding domains. We define mechanistic principles by which to understand antagonism, activation and desensitization in AMPA iGluRs. PMID:25109876

High-resolution coherent x-ray diffraction imaging of metal-coated polymer microspheres.

PubMed

Skjønsfjell, Eirik T B; Kleiven, David; Patil, Nilesh; Chushkin, Yuriy; Zontone, Federico; Gibaud, Alain; Breiby, Dag W

2018-01-01

Coherent x-ray diffraction imaging (CXDI) is becoming an important 3D quantitative microscopy technique, allowing structural investigation of a wide range of delicate mesoscale samples that cannot be imaged by other techniques like electron microscopy. Here we report high-resolution 3D CXDI performed on spherical microcomposites consisting of a polymer core coated with a triple layer of nickel-gold-silica. These composites are of high interest to the microelectronics industry, where they are applied in conducting adhesives as fine-pitch electrical contacts-which requires an exceptional degree of uniformity and reproducibility. Experimental techniques that can assess the state of the composites non-destructively, preferably also while embedded in electronic chips, are thus in high demand. We demonstrate that using CXDI, all four different material components of the composite could be identified, with radii matching well to the nominal specifications of the manufacturer. Moreover, CXDI provided detailed maps of layer thicknesses, roughnesses, and defects such as holes, thus also facilitating cross-layer correlations. The side length of the voxels in the reconstruction, given by the experimental geometry, was 16 nm. The effective resolution enabled resolving even the thinnest coating layer of ∼20  nm nominal width. We discuss critically the influence of the weak phase approximation and the projection approximation on the reconstructed electron density estimates, demonstrating that the latter has to be employed. We conclude that CXDI has excellent potential as a metrology tool for microscale composites.

Synthesis of Nano-Crystalline Cu-Cr Alloy by Mechanical Alloying

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sheibani, S.; Heshmati-Manesh, S.; Ataie, A.

In this paper, the influence of toluene as the process control agent (PCA) and pre-milling on the extension of solid solubility of 7 wt.% Cr in Cu by mechanical alloying in a high energy ball mill was investigated. The structural evolution and microstructure were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) techniques, respectively. The solid solution formation at different conditions was analyzed by copper lattice parameter change during the milling process. It was found that both the presence of PCA and pre-milling of Cr powder lead to faster dissolution of Cr. The mean crystallite size was also calculated and showed to be about 10 nm after 80 hours of milling.

Unperturbed volume transition of thermosensitive poly-(N-isopropylacrylamide) microgel particles embedded in a hydrogel matrix.

PubMed

Musch, Judith; Schneider, Stefanie; Lindner, Peter; Richtering, Walter

2008-05-22

The thermoresponsive behavior of poly-(N-isopropylacrylamide) (PNiPAM) microgels embedded in a covalently cross-linked polyacrylamide hydrogel matrix was investigated using ultraviolet-visible (UV-vis) spectroscopy, small-angle neutron scattering (SANS), and confocal laser scanning microscopy. The hydrogel synthesis was performed at two different temperatures, below and above the volume phase transition temperature of PNiPAM, resulting in highly swollen or fully collapsed PNiPAM microgel particles during the incorporation step. UV-vis spectroscopy experiments verify that the incorporation of thermosensitive microgels leads to temperature-sensitive optical properties of the composite materials. SANS measurements at different temperatures show that the thermosensitive swelling behavior of the PNiPAM microgels is fully retained in the composite material. Volume and structure criteria of the embedded microgel particles are compared to those of the free microgels in acrylamide solution. To visualize the temperature responsive behavior of larger PNiPAM particles, confocal fluorescence microscopy images of PNiPAM beads, of 40-microm size, were taken at two different temperatures. The micrographs also demonstrate the retained temperature sensitivity of the embedded microgels.

Direct electrochemical oxidation of S-captopril using gold electrodes modified with graphene-AuAg nanocomposites

PubMed Central

Pogacean, Florina; Biris, Alexandru R; Coros, Maria; Lazar, Mihaela Diana; Watanabe, Fumiya; Kannarpady, Ganesh K; Al Said, Said A Farha; Biris, Alexandru S; Pruneanu, Stela

2014-01-01

In this paper, we present a novel approach for the electrochemical detection of S-captopril based on graphene AuAg nanostructures used to modify an Au electrode. Multi-layer graphene (Gr) sheets decorated with embedded bimetallic AuAg nanoparticles were successfully synthesized catalytically with methane as the carbon source. The two catalytic systems contained 1.0 wt% Ag and 1.0 wt% Au, while the second had a larger concentration of metals (1.5 wt% Ag and 1.5 wt% Au) and was used for the synthesis of the Gr-AuAg-1 and Gr-AuAg-1.5 multicomponent samples. High-resolution transmission electron microscopy analysis indicated the presence of graphene flakes that had regular shapes (square or rectangular) and dimensions in the tens to hundreds of nanometers. We found that the size of the embedded AuAg nanoparticles varied between 5 and 100 nm, with the majority being smaller than 20 nm. Advanced scanning transmission electron microscopy studies indicated a bimetallic characteristic of the metallic clusters. The resulting Gr-AuAg-1 and Gr-AuAg-1.5 samples were used to modify the surface of commonly used Au substrates and subsequently employed for the direct electrochemical oxidation of S-captopril. By comparing the differential pulse voltammograms recorded with the two modified electrodes at various concentrations of captopril, the peak current was determined to be well-defined, even at relatively low concentration (10−5 M), for the Au/Gr-AuAg-1.5 electrode. In contrast, the signals recorded with the Au/Gr-AuAg-1 electrode were poorly defined within a 5×10−6 to 5×10−3 M concentration range, and many of them overlapped with the background. Such composite materials could find significant applications in nanotechnology, sensing, or nanomedicine. PMID:24596464

Super resolution reconstruction of μ-CT image of rock sample using neighbour embedding algorithm

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wang, Yuzhu; Rahman, Sheik S.; Arns, Christoph H.

2018-03-01

X-ray computed tomography (μ-CT) is considered to be the most effective way to obtain the inner structure of rock sample without destructions. However, its limited resolution hampers its ability to probe sub-micro structures which is critical for flow transportation of rock sample. In this study, we propose an innovative methodology to improve the resolution of μ-CT image using neighbour embedding algorithm where low frequency information is provided by μ-CT image itself while high frequency information is supplemented by high resolution scanning electron microscopy (SEM) image. In order to obtain prior for reconstruction, a large number of image patch pairs contain high- and low- image patches are extracted from the Gaussian image pyramid generated by SEM image. These image patch pairs contain abundant information about tomographic evolution of local porous structures under different resolution spaces. Relying on the assumption of self-similarity of porous structure, this prior information can be used to supervise the reconstruction of high resolution μ-CT image effectively. The experimental results show that the proposed method is able to achieve the state-of-the-art performance.

Air-void embedded GaN-based light-emitting diodes grown on laser drilling patterned sapphire substrates

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

Liu, Hao; Li, Yufeng; Wang, Shuai

Air-void structure was introduced in GaN-based blue light-emitting diodes (LED) with one-step growth on periodic laser drilling patterned sapphire substrate, which free of any photolithography or wet/dry etching process. The influence of filling factors (FF) of air-void on crystal quality and optical performance were investigate. Transmission electron microscopy images and micro-Raman spectroscopy indicated that the dislocation was bended and the partially compressed strain was released. When FF was 55.43%, compared with the LED structure grown on flat sapphire substrate, the incorporation of air-void was observed to reduce the compressed stress of ∼20% and the luminance intensity has improved by 128%.more » Together with the simulated reflection intensity enhancement by finite difference time-domain (FDTD) method, we attribute the enhanced optical performance to the combined contribution of strong back-side light reflection of air-void and better GaN epitaxial quality. This approach provides a simple replacement to the conventional air-void embedded LED process.« less

Effect of zinc phosphate chemical conversion coating on corrosion behaviour of mild steel in alkaline medium: protection of rebars in reinforced concrete.

PubMed

Simescu, Florica; Idrissi, Hassane

2008-12-01

We outline the ability of zinc phosphate coatings, obtained by chemical conversion, to protect mild steel rebars against localized corrosion, generated by chloride ions in alkaline media. The corrosion resistance of coated steel, in comparison with uncoated rebars and coated and uncoated steel rebars embedded in mortar, were evaluated by open-circuit potential, potentiodynamic polarization, cronoamperometry and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. The coated surfaces were characterized by x-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy. First, coated mild steel rebars were studied in an alkaline solution with and without chloride simulating a concrete pore solution. The results showed that the slow dissolution of the coating generates hydroxyapatite Ca 10 (PO 4 ) 6 (OH) 2 . After a long immersion, the coating became dense and provided an effective corrosion resistance compared with the mild steel rebar. Secondly, the coated and uncoated steel rebars embedded in mortar and immersed in chloride solution showed no corrosion or deterioration of the coated steel. Corrosion rate is considerably lowered by this phosphate coating.

Effect of zinc phosphate chemical conversion coating on corrosion behaviour of mild steel in alkaline medium: protection of rebars in reinforced concrete

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Simescu, Florica; Idrissi, Hassane

2008-12-01

We outline the ability of zinc phosphate coatings, obtained by chemical conversion, to protect mild steel rebars against localized corrosion, generated by chloride ions in alkaline media. The corrosion resistance of coated steel, in comparison with uncoated rebars and coated and uncoated steel rebars embedded in mortar, were evaluated by open-circuit potential, potentiodynamic polarization, cronoamperometry and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. The coated surfaces were characterized by x-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy. First, coated mild steel rebars were studied in an alkaline solution with and without chloride simulating a concrete pore solution. The results showed that the slow dissolution of the coating generates hydroxyapatite Ca10(PO4)6(OH)2. After a long immersion, the coating became dense and provided an effective corrosion resistance compared with the mild steel rebar. Secondly, the coated and uncoated steel rebars embedded in mortar and immersed in chloride solution showed no corrosion or deterioration of the coated steel. Corrosion rate is considerably lowered by this phosphate coating.

An immunohistochemical approach to differentiate hepatic lipidosis from hepatic phospholipidosis in rats.

PubMed

Obert, Leslie A; Sobocinski, Gregg P; Bobrowski, Walter F; Metz, Alan L; Rolsma, Mark D; Altrogge, Douglas M; Dunstan, Robert W

2007-08-01

Hepatocellular vacuolation can be a diagnostic challenge since cytoplasmic accumulations of various substances (lipid, water, phospholipids, glycogen, and plasma) can have a similar morphology. Cytoplasmic accumulation of phospholipids following administration of cationic amphiphilic drugs (CAD) can be particularly difficult to differentiate from nonphosphorylated lipid accumulations at the light microscopic level. Histochemical methods (Sudan Black, Oil Red-O, Nile Blue, etc.) can be used to identify both nonphosphorylated and/or phosphorylated lipid accumulations, but these techniques require non-paraffin-embedded tissue and are only moderately sensitive. Thus, electron microscopy is often utilized to achieve a definitive diagnosis based upon the characteristic morphologic features of phospholipid accumulations; however, this is a low throughput and labor intense procedure. In this report, we describe the use of immunohistochemical staining for LAMP-2 (a lysosome-associated protein) and adipophilin (a protein that forms the membrane around non-lysosomal lipid droplets) to differentiate phospholipidosis and lipidosis, respectively in the livers of rats. This staining procedure can be performed on formalin-fixed paraffin embedded tissues, is more sensitive than histochemistry, and easier to perform than ultrastructural evaluation.

Impact and hardness optimisation of composite materials inspired by the babassu nut (Orbignya speciosa).

PubMed

Staufenberg, Gerrit; Graupner, Nina; Müssig, Jörg

2015-08-20

The babassu nut is the fruit of the babassu palm Orbignya speciosa. The combination of hardness and impact strength is difficult to acquire for artificial materials, making the babassu nut a promising source for biomimetic inspiration. Unnotched Charpy impact tests, Shore D hardness tests and scanning electron microscopy were used for mechanical and microscopical analysis of the pericarp. Four major principles were found for a biomimetic approach: a hard core ((1); endocarp) is embedded in a soft outer layer of high impact strength ((2); epicarp) and is reinforced with fibres of variable fineness (3), some of which are oriented radial to the core (4). Biomimetic fibre-reinforced composites were produced using abstracted mechanisms of the babassu nut based on regenerated cellulose fibres (lyocell, L) with two different fineness values as reinforcement embedded in a polylactide (PLA) core matrix and polypropylene (PP) based outer layers. The biomimetic fibre composite reaches a significantly higher impact strength that is 1.6 times higher than the reference sample produced from a PLA/PP/L-blend. At the same time the hardness is slightly increased compared to PP/L.

Argon-ion-induced formation of nanoporous GaSb layer: Microstructure, infrared luminescence, and vibrational properties

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

Datta, D. P.; Som, T., E-mail: tsom@iopb.res.in; Kanjilal, A.

2014-07-21

Room temperature implantation of 60 keV Ar{sup +}-ions in GaSb to the fluences of 7 × 10{sup 16} to 3 × 10{sup 18} ions cm{sup −2} is carried out at two incidence angles, viz 0° and 60°, leading to formation of a nanoporous layer. As the ion fluence increases, patches grow on the porous layer under normal ion implantation, whereas the porous layer gradually becomes embedded under a rough top surface for oblique incidence of ions. Grazing incidence x-ray diffraction and cross-sectional transmission electron microscopy studies reveal the existence of nanocrystallites embedded in the ion-beam amorphized GaSb matrix up to the highest fluence used inmore » our experiment. Oxidation of the nanoporous layers becomes obvious from x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and Raman mapping. The correlation of ion-beam induced structural modification with photoluminescence signals in the infrared region has further been studied, showing defect induced emission of additional peaks near the band edge of GaSb.« less

Characterization of Silicon Nanoparticles Formed from a Fluidized Bed Reactor and Their Incorporation onto Metal-Coated Carbon Fibers

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zbib, Mohamad B.; Sahaym, Uttara; Bahr, David F.

2014-01-01

Enhancing the light trapping using nonwoven arrays of fibers has the potential to improve the photocurrent of silicon solar cells. In this work, amorphous and crystalline Si nanopowders (30-300 nm) were embedded in carbon fibers and fixed in place with electrodeposited nickel. Scanning and transmission electron microscopy techniques have been used to study the morphology of the Si particles and their interactions with the coatings. Two types of nanoparticles are identified, homogeneous nucleated particles (amorphous particles with some crystalline regions) and attrition particles (mostly crystalline products formed from fracture of particles as they grow in a fluidized bed reactor). Using the Brunauer-Emmett-Teller (BET) technique, the surface area and the pore diameter of these agglomerated Si nanoparticles were calculated to be 6.4 m2/g and 9.8 nm, respectively. After embedding the Si particles into the carbon matrix with the metal coatings, the electrical resistivity decreases, suggesting it is possible to enhance the light extraction of silicon solar cells using Si nanoparticles.

Description and analysis of cored hydraulic fractures -- Lost Hills field, Kern County, California

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

Fast, R.E.; Murer, A.S.; Timmer, R.S.

1994-05-01

An inclined observation well was drilled in shallow (2,000 ft) Opal-A diatomite. Seven sand-propped hydraulic fractures were cored and recovered. The hydraulic fractures were found within 5[degree] of the azimuth measured with tilt meters and were tilted 15[degree] from vertical, oriented perpendicular to the formation bedding dip. Hydraulic fractures widths ranged from less than one sand grain (40/60 mesh) to 0.4 in. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) examination of fracture faces showed no damage to the matrix from proppant embedment or compaction, and no evidence of guard residue was detected in the proppant pack or on the formation face. Fractures appearmore » to be considerably longer than modeled. Three closely spaced fractures are interpreted to be branches of a single hydraulic fracture treatment. This paper presents a description of the fractures recovered during coring in Well OO2. Findings related to fracture dimensions and orientations, fracture sources, fracture permeability measurements, and fracture characteristics (proppant embedment, presence of gel residue) are presented. Implications related to field development are discussed.« less