Microscopy & Microanalysis 2009 Meeting
July 26-30, 2009
Richmond, Virginia, USA
Meeting Symposia
 Electron Tomographic Reconstruction of a frozen-hydrated mitochondrion shown as a surface rendered model Courtesy of Mike Marko |
Categories for Scientific Papers and Symposia
Documented below are the Planned Symposia for the 2009 meeting. These events are held in the Richmond Convention Center. The Call for Papers can be downloaded here as a PDF file.
The scientific program for Microscopy and Microanalysis 2009 will consist of several parts as listed below. These include: The Premeeting Symposium, Sunday Short Courses , Special Events, Symposia, Contributed Sessions, and Tutorials. The Symposia will consist of a mixture of invited and contributed talks plus a poster session. Contributed sessions will also consist of mixtures of talks and posters as warranted by the submitted papers.
When submitting your paper to Microscopy and Microanalysis 2009, authors of invited talks and tutorials should select only the number corresponding to that session. Authors of contributed papers should select both a first and second choice (from either the symposia or contributed sessions). The Program Committee will use this information to arrange presentations into coherent sessions. Inclusion into a specific session cannot be guaranteed, but every effort will be made to place your contribution into the most appropriate session.
The deadline for receipt of all papers is February 15, 2009.
Biological Sciences
B01 Biofilm Imaging: Microscopy in the Real World
Robert Simmons
A 'biofilm' is a complex community of microorganisms, often including bacteria, fungi, protozoa or algae. Microbial communities may form on almost any surface exposed to water or at the interface between still water and air. These communities often represent the intersection of biological and materials sciences and may have far-reaching impacts in both worlds. This symposium will explore the use of microscopy in the study of biofilms and their impact in a range of applications including medicine and medical devices, bioreactors, recreational water systems, waste management and industrial processes.
B02 Green Product and Biological Imaging
H. Peter Lu
In recent years, advancements in molecular spectroscopy and imaging have profoundly changed the way we study chemical and biological systems. Spectroscopic and topographic analyses at the single-molecule level provide nano-scale spatial resolution. These approaches have emerged to play an important role in green energy sciences, providing new information that is not obtainable from conventional means. In this symposium, sessions will be held on single-molecule and single-cell biophysical imaging analysis with an emphasis on biomass and bio-energy sciences. Cutting-edge technical developments and applications will highlight the extensive versatility and unique capability of optical and scanning probe microscopies.
B03 Innovative Imaging of Kidney, in Health and Disease
Caroline A. Miller and Vincent H. Gattone
The kidney structure is integrally linked to its function, whether it is filtration or tubular function. Newer imaging methods have allowed a better appreciation of both normal processes as well as the development of alterations in pathological conditions. Using cryotechniques, it is possible to evaluate the renal structure in a more life-like state and 2 photon in vivo microscopy has allowed the visualization of dynamic processes. This session will provide information on new ways to look at kidney and evaluate its pathology.
B04 One World, One Health, One Microscopy: Techniques, Pathogen-Host Interaction and Malaria
Alex Hyatt and Anna Sartori Rupp
Emerging infectious diseases (EIDs) continue to represent an increasing and very significant threat to global health. Microscopy remains an important tool in pathogen identification and disease investigation. It is the intention for this session to present a range of techniques to identify and study infectious organisms and their associated diseases in addition to the broad range of instrumentation currently utilized to generate the required data. To show case the importance of microscopy in 'One-World, One-Health' invited speakers will highlight the application of techniques and instrumentation in the ongoing studies of malaria.
B05 Plant Cell Function
Howard Berg
Current tools of cellular imaging are providing opportunities to understand the function of plant cells better than ever before. Spinning disk and confocal microscopes allow rapid and sensitive imaging of live cells and processes highlighted using fluorescent proteins and other fluorescence labeling methods. Electron microscopy of ultra-rapidly frozen/freeze substituted specimens is routine, contributing significantly to analysis of plant cell structure at the molecular level, especially when coupled with electron tomography. Recent examples of studies using these approaches to analyze plant cell function will be highlighted. Additional platform or poster session contributions in plant cell biology are encouraged.
B06 Intravital Imaging of Cancer and Associated Cellular Response
Alex Y. Huang
Cancer develops due to intricate interactions between the tumor cells and surrounding stroma through neo-vascularization, tissue remodeling, and evasion of immune surveillance. Advances in photonic and other imaging techniques have revolutionized how investigators study these processes in vivo. For example, intravital two-photon microscopy provides an important tool for interrogating individual tumor interaction with immune cells and surrounding stroma. Other microscopic methods allow the molecular detection of tumor cell behavior and function. In addition, new imaging agents allow sensitive detection of cancer in vivo. Efforts in the applications of these and other cancer imaging methods will be presented at this symposium.
B07 Imaging and Analysis of Biominerals - Intersecting Biology, Chemistry and Material Science
Alice Dohnalkova and Clara Chan
Understanding of interactions between the organic and mineral interfaces will form a focal point of this symposium. Emphasis will be put on a synergistic approach between the latest methods in imaging and material characterization that offer new opportunities to describe the complex process of biomineralization. Presentations in broad research fields including medicine, microbiology, botany, ecology, pathology and materials for nanotechnology will be dealing with subjects such as mineralization of soft tissues, environmental bioremediation, magnetotactic materials, mimetics and tissue engineering, with the goal to stimulate the exchange of ideas and new collaborations in this interdisciplinary field.
Physical Sciences
P01 Microscopy and Microanalysis of Nanostructured Materials
Zhong Lin Wang, Jian Yu Huang, Jing Yue Liu
Microscopy and microanalysis play a central role in advancing nanoscience and nanotechnology. Recent advancements in instrumentation have enabled the routine application of imaging, spectroscopy and diffraction techniques for the analysis of individual nanostructured materials. Correlation of the observed nanostructures with their fabrication processes or their enhanced properties is still a great challenge. The goal of this symposium is to provide a platform for discussing recent progress in identifying synthesis-structure-performance relationships for nanostructured materials. Reports on property measurements using a combination of TEM/STEM with other techniques such as scanning probe microscopy (SPM) and microelectromechanical (MEMS) devices are encouraged.
P02 Irradiation Damage and Modification of Materials
M. Grace Burke and Lumin Wang
This symposium will focus on the use of microscopy and microanalysis techniques to investigate irradiation-induced changes in the structure of materials. Irradiation by energetic electrons, neutrons or ions can lead to the formation of point defects and defect clusters at the nanoscale, and can lead to significant changes in local microstructure and local chemistry. Irradiation frequently leads to measureable changes in materials properties. In this symposium, recent results of irradiation effects in metals, alloys, semiconductors and polymeric materials revealed with current electron microscopy and/or microanalysis techniques will be presented.
P03 Characterization of Materials for Responsible Energy Generation and Use
Andrew Deal and Jim Bentley
As the global demand for energy increases, the scientific and industrial communities are being called upon for solutions that reduce the dependence on fossil fuels, mitigate greenhouse gases and improve the efficiency of energy usage. Many relevant technologies reflect significant advances in materials. This symposium focuses on the role of materials characterization in new product developments and scientific efforts to enhance responsible energy generation and use. Contributed papers in any scientific discipline or technical area related to this topic are welcome.
P04 Advanced Coating Stability: Ceramics/Composites/Metallic-Polymer Co-Deposition
Erica Corral, Beth Dickey, and Luther Gammon
This session will draw together researchers who use advanced coating technology. The stability and microstructure analysis of multi-layer coatings can develop unique challenges in terms of sample preparation, thermal effects during fabrication and service. Post deposition treatments and in situ interactions are also appropriate for this diverse session.
P05 The Otto Scherzer Memorial Symposium on Aberration-Corrected Electron Microscopy
Uli Dahmen and David J. Smith
2009 marks the centennial of the birth of Otto Scherzer, originator of the famous theorem that spherical and chromatic aberrations of rotationally symmetric electron lenses are unavoidable. Former Darmstadt colleagues will reminisce about their experiences working in his group. The latest developments in aberration correction for scanning and fixed-beam instruments will be described, and representative examples of aberration correction to a broad range of materials will be highlighted by platform and poster presentations.
P06 Characterization of Interactive Surfaces: Corrosion, Wear, Tribology and Processing
Mac Louthan and Fred E. Schmidt, Jr
An insidious aspect of "design" is the importance to account for actual interactions between the various materials and the service environment. This symposium will focus on characterization of interactive surfaces as it relates to performance: Corrosion, Wear, Tribology and Processing e.g. catalysis, reactor science, surfaces in motion and intimate contact. Incipient failure is often traceable to a break down (microscopic), the root cause, long before a catastrophic failure (macroscopic).
P07 Archeometallurgy: Analyses and Characterization
George Vander Voort and Robert van Langh
Archeometallurgy is a fairly broad subject encompassing studies of metallic and ceramic objects of historical nature. Topics can encompass characterization studies, using a wide variety of methodologies, to define the nature of the materials used, understand their manufacturing technology, characterize manufacturing defects or environmental/usage damage, or determine their mechanical or physical properties. Subjects for such studies cover the gamut from coins, jewelry, military armaments, and everyday tools to musical instruments, statuary, and extraterrestrial objects.
Advances in Instrumentation and Techniques
A01 Exhibitor Symposium: Making the Nano-Future Real: Instruments and Techniques that are Impacting Today's Research for Tomorrow's Breakthroughs
Andree Kraker, Mike Bode and David J. Fitzgerald
Working at the nanoscale is not a novelty to contemporary microscopists. There is nothing revolutionary about seeing features with sub-micron dimensions. What is unique is the application of the latest microscopy instruments and techniques to the field of nanoscience. Discovering ways to understand and manipulate materials, understand the structure/function relationship of cells, or explore alternatives for generating energy, to name only a few applications, will lead to future commercial and medical breakthroughs. This session offers an opportunity for the exhibitors participating in M&M to present how their products and applications are being used or can be used to impact research and development in nanoscience.
A02 David B. Wittry Memorial Symposium on Advances in Detectors in Microscopy and Microanalysis, Related Techniques, and Their Applications
Richard Leapman, Yimei Zhu and Joe Michael
This symposium is held in memory of David B. Wittry, who developed novel detectors and other instrumentation in areas as varied as wavelength dispersive spectroscopy, electron energy-loss spectroscopy, and cathodoluminescence, which were used by him, his students, and others to perform ground-breaking measurements. In honor of the importance and breadth of Professor Wittry's contributions, this symposium invites contributions that detail ongoing improvements in detectors, spectrometers, and related instrumentation from across the range of techniques applied for microscopy and microanalysis, as well as techniques and applications that take advantage of these advances.
A03 Quantitative Atom-Probe Tomography
Emmanuelle A Marquis and David J. Larson
This symposium will explore the requirements for quantitative atom-probe tomography (APT) as a materials science characterization technique. It is open to both APT experts and microscopists/materials scientists interested in atomic-scale characterization. It will address quantification from the technical and application standpoints and illustrate the state-of-the-art methods used to resolve materials science issues in complex systems with the following objectives:
- Provide a forum for presentation of latest developments in data reconstruction, analysis and materials applications
- Organize the APT community regarding the need for standards for calibrating and presenting data
- Educate the general audience on quantitative capability of APT
A special focused topics session on required tools for quantitative atom-probe tomography analysis is also scheduled. The topics are:
- Standard definitions (e.g., signal-to-noise, mass resolution, etc.)
- Application of methods of data manipulation (background subtraction, peak deconvolution, etc.)
- Requirements in industry and academia for such data.
A04 Focused ion beam (FIB) science and technology: fundamental interactions, instrumentation and applications
David P. Adams and Phillip E. Russell
This symposium will describe recent findings associated with focused ion beam (FIB) science and technology as these pertain to microscopy and micro/nano-analysis. In part, this will include research of ion-solid interactions that govern FIB sputter removal, FIB-chemical vapor deposition, electron-chemical vapor deposition, enhanced etch and feature definition. In addition, we seek presentations that describe recent advances in FIB methods and technology for specimen preparation, thinning, sectioning and related applications. We also encourage speakers to submit abstracts that highlight novel, hybrid FIB techniques and technology. This may include studies involving multiple ion sources, gasjets, in-situ monitoring techniques and new instrumentation.
A05 Microscopy, Microanalysis and Image Analysis in the Pharmaceutical Sciences
Lynn M. DiMemmo and Jennifer Q. Liang
Pharmaceutical research and development laboratories are at the forefront of science and have developed specialized technologies and themes that are of particular value to microscopists in industry. This symposium will present a variety of biological and materials science applications of significance to the pharmaceutical community. In response to feedback from previous meetings, an informal forum will be provided for sharing of thoughts and strategies related to regulatory and other issues faced in our laboratories in addition to talks by invited speakers. Contributed papers for platform or poster presentation on related topics are also welcome.
A06 Advances in Fluorescent Nanoprobes for Cellular and In-Vivo Imaging
Hongwei Duan
Semiconductor quantum dots (QDs) are emerging as a new class of fluorescent labels for molecular, cellular and in-vivo imaging applications, due to their narrow and size-tunable emission spectra, broad absorption profiles, and superior photostability. This symposium will highlight recent advances in synthesis, surface functionalization and bioconjugation of QDs and their uses in cellular and in-vivo optical imaging as well as the development of multi-modality (fluorescent and magnetic resonance imaging) nanoparticle imaging probes.
A07 Metals and Minerals and Microstructure: Applications and Advances of Electron Backscatter Diffraction (EBSD)
Matt Nowell and David J. Prior
This symposium focuses on the applications and advances of Electron Backscatter Diffraction, including microstructure and texture analysis, phase identification, and strain analysis. This includes the investigation over a wide range of length scales (nanometer to centimeter), and the role of resolution (spatial and angular) and statistics. As good sample preparation is necessary for good EBSD data, papers on the preparation methods and procedures for different materials (single and multi-phase) are welcomed. Advances in dynamic EBSD experiments such as in-situ heating for recrystallization, grain growth, and phase transformations, and deformation are of interest, as well as advanced three-dimensional characterization.
A08 Quantitative Analysis at the NanoScale - XEDS, EELS, SIMS, HAADF
Raynald Gauvin, Gianluigi Botton, Edward Vicenzi, Masashi Watanabe
The development of nanomaterials and nanotechnologies relies strongly on their quantitative chemical analysis at the nanoscale. Since many techniques are available for researchers, this symposium presents a unified view of these techniques with regard to their advantages, disadvantages and complementarity. Example topics include: quantitative x-ray microanalysis in the micropropbe or in the FE-SEM, noble quantification approaches of EDS and EELS (with spectroscopy) in AEM, nanoscale isotopic and trace element analysis (NanoSIMS); molecular nanoscale analysis (ToF-SIMS); nanoanalysis in the focused ion beam microscope (low energy STEM, 3D EDS volumes) and quantitative analysis with high spatial resolution using HAADF-STEM imaging in aberration-reduced environments.
A09 Failure Analyses: Practical Metallography/Fractography in Case Studies
Dan Dennies and David Norfleet
Failure analysis is an important function crossing all disciplines. This symposium will include real-world applications and research case studies to determine the root cause of the failure. In particular, this symposium will highlight the various correlative microscopes and special techniques that can be used. Any and all optical, scanning, and microanalytical techniques will be discussed. Topics covered include metal fatigue and fracture, biomaterials/medical implants, semiconductor failures, etc. Contributions are encouraged from industry failure analysts and researchers active in any of these areas.
A10 Problem Solving Using Microanalysis in the Real World
Paul Carpenter, Jon Hangas, and Stuart McKernan
The session will broadly encompass the microanalysis of inorganic and organic materials with an emphasis on use of the silicon drift detector, complimentary analytical techniques, and the role of software tools and simulation in analyzing problem materials. We welcome contributions on problem-driven issues related to measurement strategies, the analysis of particles, thin films, and other non-standard geometries, quantitative analysis including advances in correction algorithms, and the identification of critical roadblocks in microanalysis. We especially encourage student and young scientist participation.
A11 Breaking the Light Barrier: Overcoming Diffraction-Limited Microscopy
David Giovannucci
Over the last few years a variety of approaches to achieve sub-light wavelength resolution have captured the imagination of biologists. The use of super-resolution techniques to investigate cellular structures and molecular assemblies at the nanoscale-level allows many important cell biological questions to be addressed in ways that had not until recently been feasible. In addition the development of probes and improved time-resolution are likely to expand the use of these exciting technologies. Researchers engaged in the development or use of super-resolution methods such as STED, STORM, PALM, NSOM and SI, as well as probes for these approaches, are encouraged to contribute to this session.
A12 Three-Dimensional Imaging in the Biological and Materials Sciences: Bridging Nano and Micron Scales
Ilke Arslan , Klaus van Benthem, Michael Marko, David Norfleet, and David Rowenhorst
This cross-disciplinary symposium recognizes convergence of the two communities at both nano and micron scales. We will explore 3-D imaging using high-resolution TEM and STEM/SCEM, taking advantage of the latest developments in aberration correction and cryo-EM methods. At the micron scale, we will discuss serial sectioning and x-ray tomography. We will demonstrate how 3-D structure is extended by integration of compositional information using techniques such as EDX, EFTEM, EELS, and EBSD, and complimented by FIB and atom probe approaches. Invited papers will review the current state-of-the-art in imaging methods and reconstruction algorithms, and will present exciting representative applications.
A13 High Resolution Scanning Microscopy - Ions to Electrons
David C. Joy and Brendan J. Griffin
Professor Albert Crewe once famously characterized imaging in the scanning microscope as being like "seeing the world through the bottom of a beer bottle". Now, however, the simple electron-optics and modest technology of the early SEMs have been upgraded in every area and this symposium will examine the ways in which current SEMs are achieving sub-nanometer, and even atomic level, imaging performance including novel electron sources and optics, the replacement of electrons with ions, and the application of new signal modes and imaging strategies.
A14 In-Situ Microscopy: Real Time Correlation of Structure, Processing, and Properties
Carl Boehlert, Jaret Frafjord, Eva Olsson, and Eric Stach
Although in-situ microscopy is not new, multiple new methodologies and characterization methods have been developed and/or improved in recent years, leading to a resurgence of interest in this area. This symposium will provide a forum for a diverse range of researchers from academia, governmental, and industrial labs to share their developments, insights and results from multiple length scales (nanomanipulation in TEM to SEM capable of conducting bulk tensile tests, electrical transport properties and laser induced experiments) and time scales (from video rate to sub-nanosecond) based on the use of a variety of techniques (SEM, TEM, AFM, STM, EBSD, OM, etc.) in both materials and biological applications.
A15 Electron Diffraction and Imaging Techniques for Quantitative Structure Determination
Jian-Min Zuo and Laurence Marks
This symposium will focus on recent improvements and advances, both experimental as well as theoretical, in application of electron microscopy to structural problems. Focus will be on acquisition and proper treatment of electron diffraction intensities and exit wave functions and algorithms for structure determination. An additional emphasis will be on experimental advances aimed at automating acquisition and handling of multi-dimensional electron diffraction and imaging data. Presentations germane to determination of atomic structures are also solicited using e.g. recent advances in modeling which serves to improve the interpretation of electron diffraction and microscopy data for atomic structure determination.
A16 Metallographic Techniques & Materials Characterization
Rick Noecker, Gabe Lucas and Nat Saenz
This annual symposium will provide the most up-to-date examples of state-of-the art metallography as practiced by metallographers, engineers and researchers working on a wide range of materials. The equipment, consumables, process and fabrication methodology/exposes` are welcome as examples of advanced techniques & materials characterization.
A17 Microscopy and Analysis in Forensic Science
David Howitt and Frank Platek
With the advent of the Daubert decision, techniques are being scrutinized and there is a need to justify both the significance of the observations and the validity of the interpretations. The symposium will focus on: 1) microscopy of impression evidence with an emphasis on the techniques for firearms identification, the NAS findings related to the NIBIN program and the use of standards for the interpretation of evidence, and 2) Scanning and Confocal Microscopy Applications which provide specific advantages over conventional optical microscopy. This will include precision and reproducibility, particularly when it comes to creating data bases for evidence comparison. Papers are encouraged in the general area of the interpretation of evidence examined by microscopy.
A18 Raw Data and Metadata: Comprehensive and Ethical Collection, Storage, Manipulation and Retrieval of Images
Christopher J Gilpin
We are in an era where it is becoming essential to record comprehensive meta-data along with our microscope images. Meta-data can be used for documenting experiments to make the data useful and meaningful to others if we are required to make raw data publicly available. We also need to be concerned with the ethics of post acquisition image manipulation - reliable, secure meta-data can help prevent misuse of images. Data mining is attracting attention with the advent of the "semantic web". We seek presentations and posters on all aspects of data collection, storage and retrieval especially in a core facility setting.
A19 Contributed Poster Session: Contamination Control in Electron and Ion Microscopy
Ronald Vane
This session is being organized to present the latest research on contamination sources, measurement and control techniques in charged beam microscopy. We invite papers on all aspects of contamination control inside the electron microscope or focused ion beam instruments including sources of contamination, the effects of contamination, measurement and monitoring of contamination, and contamination control methods and techniques. Contamination includes hydrocarbons, particulates, and any other foreign matter that may interfere with imaging and analysis.
Contributed Sessions
Organizer: Executive Program Committee
Potential contributed session topics in the three categories (Biological Sciences, Physical Sciences, and Instrumentation & Techniques) are listed below. Papers submitted to a topic that corresponds to an organized symposium will automatically be moved to that session. If a sufficient number of submissions on a topic are received, the Executive Program Group will organize a contributed session on that topic; if not, the papers will be redirected to the closest regular symposium.
- Biological sciences applications
- C-01 Biological Sciences - General
- C-02 Biological Microanalysis
- C-03 Biological Specimen Preparation
- C-04 Biomaterials
- C-05 Biomedical Applications
- C-06 Biomimetics
- C-07 Blood / Immunology
- C-08 Botany
- C-09 Cell Biology
- C-10 Cytochemistry (Histochemistry, Immunochemistry, In-Situ Hybridization)
- C-11 Cytoskeleton
- C-12 Developmental / Reproductive Biology
- C-13 Entomology
- C-14 Histology
- C-15 Live Cell Imaging
- C-16 Macromolecules
- C-17 Microbiology
- C-18 Microorganisms
- C-19 Molecular Biology
- C-20 Neurobiology
- C-21 Parasitology
- C-22 Pathology
- C-23 Structural Biology
- C-24 Ultrastructure (Cells, Tissues, & Organ Systems)
- C-25 Vascular Corrosion Casting
- Physical sciences applications
- C-26 Physical Sciences - General
- C-27 Amorphous Materials
- C-28 Catalysts
- C-29 Ceramics
- C-30 Composites
- C-31 Ferroelectrics
- C-32 Films / Coatings
- C-33 Geology / Mineralogy
- C-34 Interfaces
- C-35 Magnetic and Superconducting Materials
- C-36 Metals and Alloys
- C-37 Modulated Structures
- C-38 Nanostructured materials
- C-40 Oxidation / Corrosion
- C-41 Particle Analysis
- C-42 Pharmaceuticals
- C-43 Phase Transformations
- C-44 Polymers
- C-45 Porous Materials
- C-46 Radiation Effects in Materials
- C-47 Self-Assembly
- C-48 Semiconductors
- C-49 Specimen Preparation for Materials Sciences
- C-50
- Technology and instrumentation applications
- C-51 Advances in Instrumentation and Technique - General
- C-52 Instrumentation Performance & Development
- C-53 Electron Optics and Aberration Correction
- C-54 Transmission Electron Microscopy
- C-55 Scanning Transmission Electron Microscopy
- C-56 Electron Holography
- C-57 High-Resolution Electron Microscopy
- C-58 Analytical Electron Microscopy
- C-59 Electron Energy-Loss Spectroscopy / Energy- Filtered TEM
- C-60 Convergent Beam Electron Diffraction
- C-61 In-situ TEM
- C-62 Scanning Electron Microscopy
- C-63 Low-voltage SEM
- C-64 Variable Pressure / environmental SEM
- C-65 Electron Backscatter Diffraction
- C-66 X-ray Spectrometry
- C-67 Quantitative X-ray Microanalysis
- C-68 Spectral Imaging
- C-69 X-ray Imaging, Diffraction and Spectroscopy
- C-70 Crystallography
- C-71 Tomographic Methods
- C-72 Focused Ion Beam
- C-73 Surface Analysis techniques
- C-74 Atom Probe Field Ion Microscopy
- C-75 Scanned Probe Microscopy
- C-76 Metallography and Metallographic Specimen Preparation
- C-77 Stereology
- C-78 Optical (Light) Microscopy
- C-79 Confocal Microscopy
- C-80 Multi Photon Excitation Microscopy
- C-81 Optical Fluorescence Microscopy
- C-82 Infrared and Raman Microscopy and Microanalysis
- C-83 Molecular Spectroscopy
- C-84 Correlative Microscopy
- C-85 Combinatorial Methods
- C-86 Cryogenic Techniques and Methods
- C-87 In-vivo Imaging
- C-88 Digital Image Acquisition, Processing, and Analysis
- C-89 Computational Methods
- C-90 Remote Microscopy and Collaboration
- C-91 Education in Microscopy and Microanalysis
- C-92 Failure Analysis
- C-93 Forensic Science
- C-94 Industrial "Real World" Microscopy
- C-95 Quality Systems and Standards
- C-96 Technologists' Forum
- C-97 Core Facility Management
- C-98 User Facilities
Technologists Forum
Organizer: Frank Macaluso
X31 Platform Session: Image Analysis
Image analysis is an integral component of every imaging experiment for extracting quantitative information, analyzing large data sets and for meaningful presentation of image data. Freeware and commercial software packages are available for deconvolution, particle tracking, single particle reconstruction and morphometric analysis, to list a few applications. Large amounts of data require image databases to catalogue and retrieve data in a useful manner. This session will detail software solutions and their applications.
X32 Special Topics Session: Electron Tomography
The application of electron tomography to reveal 3D ultrastructure is becoming more widespread. Learn what tools are necessary to perform this technique in your lab. Topics will include specimen preparation, image acquisition, 3D modeling and data presentation.
X33 Roundtable: Artifacts
Quality control is a key factor to successful imaging experiments. Recognition of artifacts is crucial to image evaluation. Common artifacts may be easily recognized, while subtle ones require a trained eye. Learn how to recognize artifacts, determine their cause and eliminate them in subsequent experiments. The expert panel will briefly review these critical areas. An open discussion period will follow. Bring your questions and share your expertise at this roundtable session.
Tutorials
There are no additional fees to attend the following tutorials.
Biological sciences tutorials
Organizer: Elizabeth Wright
X41 Image processing and interpretation in structural electron microscopy
Bernard Heymann
Length - 1 hour
Effective image processing requires one to understand a number of basic details associated and/or embedded within image files. The interpretation of image processing results, such as docking atomic structures or analyzing segmentation outcomes, require further parameters to be correctly associated with images. These are the reasons for the current efforts on standardizing conventions in the EM community. Typical EM projects produce hundreds to thousands of micrographs, and effective handling of large amounts of information requires database-like approaches. This tutorial will cover the following topics, illustrated with examples using the package Bsoft:
- 3D image basics, including data types and image formats.
- The management of associated information and standard conventions.
- Reconstructions for single particle analysis and tomography.
- Image interpretation by modeling and segmentation.
X42 Back to the Basics: The fundamentals of cryo-electron microscopy
Terje Dokland
Length - 1 hour
Cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) was developed to allow the detailed structural analysis of complex biological matter in its native environment, with as few distortions and artifacts as possible. However, the technique is not without its problems and challenges. This tutorial will cover the fundamental principles and early development of cryo-EM, as well as practical aspects of cryo-EM sample preparation and imaging, including contrast formation and radiation damage. Highlights from the field will be reviewed, ending with a discussion of future prospects.
Physical sciences tutorials
Organizer: Peter Sarosi
X51 Sample Preparation for Materials Scientists
Hendrik O. Colijn
Length - 1 hour
There are many methods of preparing samples to go into the TEM or SEM. All the preparation methods will have advantages and disadvantages. This tutorial will provide an overview of general sample requirements for analysis and the methods necessary to prepare the samples. There will be a greater emphasis on preparation of samples for TEM. Samples may begin either as large bulk pieces or as nanoparticles or anything in between. The challenge is to be able to answer questions about the original material. Sample damage, contamination issues and artifacts will be covered. The emphasis will be on hard materials rather than polymers.
X52 Back to the Basics: The Use of Transmission Electron Microscopy - What Are the Real Capabilities and When do I Use It?
Jan Ringnalda
Length - 1 hour
The field of electron microscopy has developed significantly within this last decade. Capabilities of instrumentation that were on wish-lists for a long time have now been realized through computerization and automation. This new technology has actually re-focused attention on the environment for the electron microscope, and last but not least, the sample. Modern microscopes do not give better results, they are better at showing the imperfections of the sample. This tutorial will deal with some of the pitfalls in sample preparation, some of the pitfalls in setting up the microscope, and some of the improvements that can be made to an installation site to make systems work better. Recent developments in SEM techniques and capabilities are actually taking some of the traditional TEM jobs back into SEM capability, some of the modern TEM capabilities will be compared with SEM capabilities in terms of imaging, and spatial resolution of analysis.
Joint tutorials
Organizers: Elizabeth Wright and Peter Sarosi
X61 Back to the Basics: FIB sample preparation of thin films and soft materials
Andrew Minor
Length - 1 hour
TBA
X62 Professional Development Tutorial: Career Development for Scientific Professionals
Lucille Giannuzzi
Length - 1 hour
At Microscopy & Microanalysis 2008, we presented tips on job hunting. Once you have a job in the sciences, how do you navigate through the organization and develop your talents? Is this the place you want to spend your working life or is it one job on your career path? This tutorial will provide guidance for finding your niche in the organization, making the right contacts and career choices, and steps needed to advance through the ranks.
X71 Late Breaking Posters
Organizer: Janet Woodward
Late breaking posters will be accepted up to close of business PST Friday July 29, 2009 and should be prepared, displayed, and attended according to poster instructions.
