Abstracts » Zoology and wildlife conservation

Interference imaging of daily growth bands in massive corals

Article Abstract:

Reflectance optical microscopy and interference imaging can be used to measure the growth of corals; the growth rates thus obtained indicate the environmental quality of the seas where the corals live. The existing methods of measurement had serious drawbacks: radiographic techniques were limited to annual average growth rates and interpolation procedures depended on doubtful assumptions. However, the new method's use of reflected-light Nomarski differential interference contrast to produce an image should significantly enhance the role of corals as indicators of environmental problems.

Research, Usage, Growth, Corals, Indicators (Biology), Biological indicators, Phase microscope, Phase contrast microscopes

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Many fingers make light work

Article Abstract:

Scanning-probe microscopes are increasingly used outside the research laboratory because of their improving user-friendliness. However, the growing sophistication of the devices due to new applications is expected to raise the demand for simpler designs. S.R. Manalis and colleagues from Stanford University have developed a cantilever for scanning force microscopy that offers straightforward optical detection as well as high sensitivity for demanding applications.

Scanning devices, Optical scanners

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The big picture

Article Abstract:

Microscope developers have produced confocal microscope systems that have dramatically improved scanning speeds, greater resolution and the capacity to see detail in live cells labeled with multiple colors. Nikon's recently launched Digital Eclipse C1 Spectral Imaging confocal system collects high-resolution data from 400-750 nanometers range with a single pass of the laser.

United States, Laboratory apparatus and furniture, Scientific equipment and supplies industry, Scientific equipment industry

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