Abstract: A rapid method of microwave-assisted formalin fixation of tissue that is described as: (a) a two-step process; (b) applicable to large (>5 mm thick) and small (<5 mm thick) tissues; (c) exposure of fresh tissue (i.e. a surgical biopsy) in a formalin solution to continuous microwave irradiation; (d) formalin circulated and cooled to maintain a constant temperature; (e) microwave-assisted formalin fixation performed at a temperature between 4° C. and 40° C.; (f) a temperature probe used to monitor fixative temperature in the cavity (g) after processing via microwave-assisted formalin fixation, the tissue can be processed by microwave methods or in an automatic tissue processor into paraffin for diagnostic evaluation. The two step process consists of a first low power microwave run followed by a second high power microwave run.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for rapid fixation and decalcification of calcified tissues using a MW oven with adjustable variable continuous power output, a specialized tissue handling system and an external temperature control device to maintain reagent temperature control external to the MW environment. Tissues are placed in cassettes, which are then placed in a tissue handling system. The tissue handling system also provides a specialized external container, which allows for the recirculation and cooling of reagents external to the MW cavity. The external device is a recirculation device having both heating and cooling capacities for a range of different processing reagents.

Abstract: An apparatus for dampening standing wave pattern generation in a closed cavity of a microwave oven, includes a fluid table having an enclosure made of a microwave energy transparent material, such as plastic, and a structure, such as top flat platform held in place by the enclosure, for defining a processing surface for placement thereupon of samples to be processed, and a quantity of dielectric fluid contained by the enclosure so as to provide a large flat surface of the dielectric fluid beneath the flat platform and thus below the processing surface. The apparatus also includes mechanisms for recirculating the dielectric fluid to and from the enclosure and for cooling the dielectric fluid to maintain the dielectric fluid within a given narrow range of temperatures.

Abstract: A passive vibration isolation device includes a support frame, an instrument support platform and a plurality of vibration isolators. The support frame is adapted to rest on a support surface. The instrument support platform is adapted to support an instrument thereon. The vibration isolators are spaced apart from one another and disposed between and interconnect the support frame and the instrument support platform such that the instrument support platform is suspended by the vibration isolators in a position spaced from the support frame and above the support surface.

Abstract: A method for preparing biological specimens for the scanning electron microscope utilizes a select group of fluorocarbon solvents. Replacement of drying solvents with a fluorocarbon solvent, followed by direct sublimation, provides comparable results to critical point drying.