TUTORIALS, TECH FORUM, & SPECIAL EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES
PHYSICAL SCIENCES TUTORIALS
A Practical Guide to Bright/Dark Field - Scanning Transmission Electron Microscopy
Speaker: Michael J.Mills
Topics covered:
- Comparison between BF-STEM and conventional BF-TEM
- Simulating B/D field STEM imaging
- Optimizing image quality
- Characterizing crystalline defects
A Guide to EBSD for In-situ Studies
Speaker: Raj Mishra
Topics covered:
- Application of EBSD to study metal forming under complex strain paths
- EBSD study of microstructure evolution - challenges and opportunities
- 3D microstructure reconstruction using EBSD techniques
- EBSD and dislocation density measurement during forming
BIOLOGICAL TUTORIALS
X-50: Tracking Enveloped Virus Entry by Live Cell Fluorescence Microscopy
Gregory Melikian
A large number of enveloped viruses, including HIV, infect cells through endocytosis and fusion with intracellular compartments. We developed strategies to label viruses with fluorescent content and membrane markers and visualize single virus entry into cells with unprecedented details. We now resolve key steps of virus fusion, from uptake and delivery into acidic compartments to formation of small fusion pores and their dilation, which permits the nucleocapsid release into the cytosol. In addition, single virus imaging allows us to kinetically resolve the formation of a hemifusion intermediate that precedes the pore opening. These studies provide new insights into virus entry.
X-51: Artifacts in Immunolabeling
Hong Yi
Immuno electron microscopy (immuno-EM) is widely used for determining localization patterns of macromolecules at the ultrastructural level. However, for the inexperienced, distinguishing specific signal, recognizing artifacts, and interpreting the correlation between light and electron microscopy (LM and EM) data could be challenging. This tutorial will provide an overview of the common immuno localization methods for LM and EM, primary applications, and limitations. The tutorial will discuss the design of immuno-EM experiments based on immuno-LM data and the correlative interpretation of the data. For localization at the ultrastructural level, examples of immunolabeling artifacts and how to minimize artifacts will be discussed.
X-52: Correlative Light and Electron Cryo-Microscopy
Ariane Briegel
The combination of light and electron microscopy opens up new possibilities for the study of biological structures in a near-native state. We can now localize and identify a structure of interest in the light microscope prior to characterizing it at high resolution in the electron microscope. This tutorial will cover why this technique was originally developed; It will give an overview of the equipment that is currently available to perform such correlative experiments, and introduce the different approaches using either room temperature or cryogenic light microscopy. The optimization of the experimental design for addressing specific biological questions will be addressed.
TECHNOLOGISTS' FORUM SESSIONS
Technologists' Forum Platform: Microscopy Techniques in Hydrology
John Chandler
Provision of clean water is a worldwide issue that requires understanding not only of the source, but also devices that are used in purification and supply. Examination of the geologic structures involves traditional techniques such as light optical and scanning and transmission electron microscopy. Additionally, acoustic microscopy and micro computerized tomography are used to characterize microstructure.
Technologists' Forum Special Topics: Confocal Microscopy Across the Sciences
John Chandler
Confocal microscopy is expanding from the traditional fluorescence techniques. This symposium will explore novel uses of these established instruments and those that are being used for new areas of study. These will include both biological and materials sciences. This symposium will also present research using new instrumentation.
Technologists' Forum Roundtable: EM Biological Specimen Prep: Protocols for Success
Frank Macaluso
There is a tantalizing array of biological specimen prep protocols in the literature. Typically each lab has a set of tried-n-true protocols that everyone is encouraged to follow. Explore the criteria that guide the selection of protocols, fixatives, and embedding media. Hear from a panel of experts and share your experience in this roundtable discussion. The format for this symposium is a short presentation from the experts followed by open discussion among the attendees.
OTHER EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES
X-90 Microscopy in the Classroom: Strategies for Education and Outreach
Alyssa Calabro, Craig Queenan, David Becker
Local educators and registered conference attendees are invited to participate in any of the round table discussions on strategies for microscopy outreach and education from K-20 and beyond. This session will help determine the MSA Education Committee's path forward as it takes a leading role in keeping microscopy in the classroom as a valuable experiential learning tool. Those involved in microscopy education or educational outreach are encouraged to submit an abstract for poster presentation. Topics to be covered include:
- Building microscopy curriculum and linking it to core content standards.
- Practical utilization of optical, electron and atomic force microscopes in the classroom.
- Promoting STEM & microscopy education outreach in corporate, government and academic environments.
X-91 It's a Family Affair
Elaine Humphrey, Jaret Frafjord
This exciting session is designed to pique the scientific interest of children of all ages - no previous microscopy experience needed!
- It is for the delegates' families and friends.
- Hands-on activities and demonstrations will prove that science is fun!
- Solve the mystery using clues left at the scene of the crime.
- Participants will have the opportunity to join in a guided tour of the exhibit floor and view samples left at the scene of the crime on electron microscopes to solve the mystery.
X-92 Microscopic Explorations — A FREE workshop for meeting attendees and Phoenix area teachers.
Elaine Humphrey
Do you want to introduce a class to microscopes and the micro-world? MSA's highly acclaimed middle school teacher's manual, Microscopic Explorations, contains everything that you need to know for classroom success. This half-day workshop will give you hands-on leadership experience.
- Spouses are welcome at the Microscopic Explorations workshop!
- Do you help a homeschool group? Introduce them to Microscopic Explorations.
- Do you work with Scouts or 4-H? Take them on a Microscopic Exploration.
- Does your grant require outreach? Microscopic Explorations will show you how.
- Do classes visit your lab? Use a Microscopic Explorations unit as an introduction.
- Do your children understand what you do? Begin with a Microscopic Exploration.
For further information, contact Caroline Schooley: schooley@mcn.org