Quantitative X-ray microanalysis of semi-thick cryosections

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Abstract
Methodological aspects of quantitative X-ray microanalysis of semi-thick cryosections (2–6 μm) of biological soft tissue were investigated. The preparation of a low background specimen holder is described. Scanning and scanning transmission images of the sections could be obtained, allowing identification and separate analysis of nuclei and cytoplasm. Parallel observations of histochemically stained adjacent sections in the light microscope allowed correlation of the microanalytical data with tissue morphology and histochemistry. Quantitative analysis could be carried out with the help of a standard: a gelatin/glycerol matrix containing mineral salts in known quantities, frozen and sectioned in the same way as the specimen. Mass loss under the electron beam was found to be comparable in specimen and standard. Comparison of various theoretical models for quantitative analysis showed that the ‘P/B-method’ (determination of the background intensity under the characteristic peak) is the most suitable for semi-thick sections. Factors determining the choice of accelerating voltage were analyzed. The usefulness of this specimen type is illustrated in some biological applications (human oral mucosa, rat salivary gland).