Biomedical Light Microscopy

New interest in light microscopy of the last few years has not been backed up by adequate general literature. This book intends to fill the gap between specialized texts on detailed topics and general introductory booklets, mostly dealing with the use of the conventional light microscope only. In this short textbook both new developments in microscopy and basic facts of image formation will be treated, including often neglected topics such as axial resolving power, lens construction, photomicrography and correct use of phase-en interference contrast systems. Theoretical background will be dealt with as far as necessary for a well-considered application of these techniques enabling a deliberate choice for the approach of a certain problem. Over 150 illustrations (photomicrographs and diagrams) complete the information on microscopy of the nineties in the biomedical field, intended for scientists, doctors, technicians and research students. Many drawings have been contributed by the illustrator R. Kreuger; the photographic work has been executed by J. Peeterse. Secretarial assistance in preparing the manuscript was given by Ms T. M. S. Pierik. Dr M. J. Pearson has corrected the English of the final text. Front Matter....Pages i-ix Light microscopy as an optical system, the stand and its parts....Pages 1-24 The light microscope as a tool for observation and measurement: illumination and image formation....Pages 25-49 Fluorescence microscopy....Pages 50-66 Special optical techniques of image formation....Pages 67-101 Reproduction of microscopic images, microphotography....Pages 102-126 Quantitative analysis of microscopic images....Pages 127-158 Automation: image analysis and pattern recognition....Pages 159-170 Appendix: technical aspects of the microscopical observation in practice....Pages 171-184 Back Matter....Pages 185-192