文档介绍：Zoosymposia 1: 63–100 (2008) ISSN 1178-9905 (print edition)
symposia/ ZOOSYMPOSIA
Copyright © 2008 · Magnolia Press ISSN 1178-9913 (online edition)
Soft Part 3D visualization by serial sectioning puter reconstruction
BERNHARD RUTHENSTEINER
Bavarian State Collection of Zoology, Münchhausenstraße 21, 81247 Munich, Germany,
E-mail: ******@
Abstract
Recent increases in performance of puter hard- and software enabled a variety of 3D graphical applications,
such as surface visualizations of biological specimens. This indirectly recalled an old morphological method back to life,
the investigation of soft part anatomy by light microscopical serial section analysis. A practical guide covering all proces-
sion steps beginning with anesthetization leading to the fi nal goal, 3D visualization of specimens, is provided. Most useful
for 3D procession—of particularly small specimens—are ribbon-forming serial resin (= “semithin”) sections. A reliable
method for achievement of ribbon formation is described in detail for the fi rst time. Contact cement is applied only to the
cutting surface of the block, which represents a modifi cation of an old protocol. Details on the materials and tools, such as
embedding media (epoxy resins) and knives (Ralph glass or special diamond knife) used and general handling for the en-
tire procedure are given and critically evaluated. 3D procession is explained for the software AMIRA®. The major process-
ing steps, from section image capturing until refi ning of surfaces, are explained. Based on the experience of the author,
practical aids that cannot be found in the user’s guide of the software or elsewhere for facilitating the process are given.
These include preliminary calculation of resolution, calibration and strategies for facilitating the process and improve-
ment of results. The interpolate function is emphasized as most useful pletion of segmentation and also correction
works. Visualization exampl