Example 3D reconstruction of brain neurons (colour). Data credit: Allen Institute for Brain Science.
Ultra-wide Hemisphere Mapping
A standard 3.05mm TEM grid may have around 2mm of usable x-y travel – and is not sufficient for small mammal brain imaging. The Aspect WSP enables a usable width of at least 10mm. To achieve this, a pole-piece was designed with an especially wide sample port more than twice the original width.
The Aspect pole-piece has already demonstrated 5mm x 5mm wide results, achieved by montaging 65721 frames into a single image (approx. 256×256 tiles).
The mappable width is now limited only by the width of the TEM’s sample port and the stage drives.
(left) 5mm x 5mm fast image montage (100 x 100 tiles) from a 40nm thick coronal section of mouse brain (hemisphere) recorded using a JEOL-1200EXII at 750x magnification. Image credit: Kim Gruver, Allen Institute for Brain Science.
High Resolution Detail
The Aspect WSP maintains and expands on the original column performance. Fine details with high contrast are resolved facilitating accurate segmentation and data reconstruction.
Tests at higher magnification with 4.5-nanometre pixel size, show fine structure with minimal distortion.
Column Compatible
The Aspect WSP is compatible with the original JEOL aperture strip, enabling optimum contrast for TEM imaging.
(right) a high magnification image from a 40nm thick section of mouse brain (hemisphere) recorded using a JEOL-1200EXII at 3000x magnification. Image credit: Kim Gruver, Allen Institute for Brain Science.
Designed & Made in Ireland
Each Aspect wide sample pole-piece is designed and manufactured here in Ireland using the highest quality materials. Every pole-piece is laser engraved with a serial number to trace it through manufacturing and quality control and out into the field for installation. After numbering, each unit is dimensionally inspected and shipped with a report certificate.
Initial Community Feedback
“The Aspect wide sample pole-piece is an extremely well thought out design, with attention to future serviceability and upgrade possibilities. The pole-piece is straightforward to install, with a clean and sleek appearance. Well done!”
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What models of microscopes is Aspect available for?
The Aspect wide sample pole-piece is available for the JEOL 1200 TEM. It was developed and tested using the JEM-1200EXii platform, but should also be compatible with the original 1200 or the 1200EXi models.
How long does it take to install the Aspect pole-piece?
The JEOL 1200 TEM has side entry doors for pole-piece exchange (just above the objective lens). This means that the Aspect pole-piece can easily be installed by one person in less than half a day.
How easy is it to align the microscope after replacing the pole-piece?
The Aspect pole-piece uses more modern materials than the original but preserves the original geometry of the magnetic circuit. This means the same alignment files can be used on the TEM needing only minor focus and astigmatism adjustment as per normal operation.
Can the port configuration on the pole-piece be changed for other uses?
Yes, the Aspect pole-piece has a reinforced spacer ring. This means that larger or extra ports can be safely incorporated. Please contact us if you have a special request.
Further reading:
- “The Global Prevalence of Brain Disease”, American Brain Foundation (2024).
- Wenjing Yin et al., Nature Communications, 11 (2020).