| Abstract Detail
Education & Outreach Hou, Guichuan [1], Henson, Dru A [2]. Microscopy: Crossing Disciplinary Boundaries. Microscopy is defined as the technique of using a microscope, e.g., optical or electron microscope, to produce visual images of characters not visible to the human eye. Microscopy comprises two major components: understanding the theory and function of microscopes and preparing samples for imaging with the microscopes. Although the individual types of microscopes operate on the same fundamentals and principles irrespective of brand and user discipline, sample preparation is largely discipline-dependent. For example, a molecular biologist may be interested in identifying the sub-cellular location of a specific protein with a transmission electron microscope (TEM), while a chemist may be interested in studying the diffraction pattern of crystals with the same TEM. To address these discipline-specific needs, we are developing a novel advisory committee that includes experts from multiple disciplines on campus. In addition, this cross-disciplinary approach will be incorporated into the teaching practices of our microscopy courses, particularly in the laboratory exercises, in an effort to meet the needs and interests of students from different disciplines. Other challenges of an integrated microscopy facility include the advance of digital microscopy which requires more and sophisticated computer software for image analysis. These are also expensive and require various levels of computer skills. Regardless of the challenges, shared and integrated microscopy facilities are becoming more common since such facilities are cost-saving and more effective at providing discipline-specific services to students and faculty. In addition, it offers a unique common studying and working environment for students and scientists of multiple disciplines.
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Related Links:
College of Arts & Sciences Microscopy Facility
1 - Appalachian State University, College of Arts & Sciences, Microscopy Facility, PO Box 32027, Boone, NC, 28608-2027, USA
2 - Appalachian State University, College of Arts & Sciences
Keywords:
microscopy
developmental imaging.
Presentation Type: Plant Biology Abstract
Session: P
Location: Exhibit Hall (Northeast, Southwest & Southeast)/Hilton
Date: Sunday, July 8th, 2007
Time: 8:00 AM
Number: P46009
Abstract ID:797 |
