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The human cardiac muscle (or heart muscle) is an involuntary, striated muscle found in the walls of the heart. There are 3 major types of muscle: Skeletal muscle (covering the skeleton and giving the body shape - these are the type of muscles most often thought of when the term "muscle" is used). Smooth muscle (in walls of hollow organs such as the stomach). Cardiac muscle (only in the heart). C …

A microscope c-mount adapter allows you to connect a microscope camera to the trinocular port of the microscope (see image below). C-Mount adapters are microscope specific, which means they are designed specifically for the brand of microscope to keep the camera in focus while the eyepieces are in focus. For example, if you are using a Zeiss microscope, you need to use the corresponding Zeiss c-mo …

Microscopy cameras allow you to connect your microscope directly to a computer through the USB or Firewire port and view a live image on the computer. Many of these cameras include software for capturing images, making measurements and performing extended depth of focus stacking. Typically when working in low-light conditions, a camera with a CCD chip is best for obtaining crisp, clear resolution …

Silverfish are small, silvery wingless insects in the order Zygentoma.  The name silverfish comes from the silver-grey color and the fish-like appearance of its movements.  The scientific name (Lepisma Saccharina) indicates the silverfish's diet consisting of carbohydrates (sugar & starches). These insects are nocturnal and typically grow to 15-25mm in length. Silverfish have two thi …

The image below is the larva of a long-spined tropical sea urchin Diadema Antillarum, at day 32. The larva is ready for metamorphosis into the juvenile. Martin Moe captured this image using the Meiji phase contrast microscope paired with a Nikon D80 camera. He connected the Nikon camera to the microscope with the ND80 camera adapter. The image was captured using brightfield at 400x magnification. …

A proper ergonomic work station when using your microscope can reduce the risk of occupational injuries. UCLA Ergonomics suggests the following tips to maintain a safer environment when using microscopes: Sit in the proper position keeping your back straight and your shoulders back. Distribute your body weight evenly on both hips, and keep your feet flat on the floor. Arrange your work spac …

Sink Floats What are Sink Floats? Sink floats are used to discernibly measure and observe a liquid's density. The sink floats are small amber glass capsules that are weighted and air tight. Sink floats have been calibrated at 73.4ºF in order to measure a specific liquid density. Sink floats are dropped into  liquid and then the position of the sink float is observed. If the sink float s …