ABSTRACT
The BioImage database is a new scientific database for multidimensional microscopic images of biological specimens, which is available through the World Wide Web (WWW). The development of this database has followed an iterative approach, in which requirements and functionality have been revised and extended. The complexity and innovative use of the data meant that technical and biological expertise has been crucial in the initial design of the data model. A controlled vocabulary was introduced to ensure data consistency. Pointers are used to reference information stored in other databases. The data model was built using InfoModeler as a database design tool. The database management system is the Informix Dynamic Server with Universal Data Option. This object-relational system allows the handling of complex data using features such as collection types, inheritance, and user-defined data types. Informix datablades are used to provide additional functionality: the Web Integration Option enables WWW access to the database; the Video Foundation Blade provides functionality for video handling.
Subject(s)
Databases as Topic , Diagnostic Imaging , Internet , Microscopy , Animals , Data Display , Database Management Systems , Databases as Topic/organization & administration , Humans , Microscopy, Video , Models, Theoretical , Online Systems , User-Computer InterfaceABSTRACT
We present a novel scanning fluorescence microscopy technique, nonconfocal theta microscopy (NCTM), that provides almost isotropic resolution. In NCTM, multiphoton absorption from two orthogonal illumination directions is used to induce fluorescence emission. Therefore the point-spread function of the microscope is described by the product of illumination point-spread functions with reduced spatial overlap, which provides the resolution improvement and the more isotropic observation volume. We discuss the technical details of this new method.
ABSTRACT
In a confocal theta fluorescence microscope, two objective lenses with circular apertures are used, one to illuminate the sample and the other to detect the emitted light at an angle to the illumination axis. We show that annular illumination and detection apertures lead to a reduction in the extent of the point-spread function. A spatial resolution improved by more than 50% can be achieved with a central obstruction blocking the inner 80% of the diameter. For the limit of a very narrow annular aperture and a numerical aperture of 0.75, the volume at half-maximum of the point-spread function is reduced from 15to5 aL. Amixed setup with anannular illumination aperture and a circular detection aperture is also considered.
