Serial block-face scanning electron microscopy (SBF-SEM) allows for the collection of hundreds to thousands of serially-registered ultrastructural images, offering an unprecedented three-dimensional view of tissue microanatomy. While SBF-SEM has seen an exponential increase in use in recent years, technical aspects such as proper tissue preparation and imaging parameters are paramount for the success of this imaging modality. This imaging system benefits from the automated nature of the device, allowing one to leave the microscope unattended during the imaging process, with the automated collection of hundreds of images possible in a single day. However, without appropriate tissue preparation cellular ultrastructure can be altered in such a way that incorrect or misleading conclusions might be drawn. Additionally, images are generated by scanning the block-face of a resin-embedded biological sample and this often presents challenges and considerations that must be addressed. The accumulation of electrons within the block during imaging, known as "tissue charging," can lead to a loss of contrast and an inability to appreciate cellular structure. Moreover, while increasing electron beam intensity/voltage or decreasing beam-scanning speed can increase image resolution, this can also have the unfortunate side effect of damaging the resin block and distorting subsequent images in the imaging series. Here we present a routine protocol for the preparation of biological tissue samples that preserves cellular ultrastructure and diminishes tissue charging. We also provide imaging considerations for the rapid acquisition of high-quality serial-images with minimal damage to the tissue block.

We report on a cross-cultural collaborative project between students and faculty at DePauw University in the United States and Shibaura Institute of Technology in Japan that used cross-cultural teams to design and evaluate robotic gadgets to gain a deeper understanding of the role that kawaii (Japanese cuteness) plays in fostering positive human response to, and acceptance of, these devices across cultures. Two cross-cultural design teams used Unity and C# to design and implement prototypes of virtual robotic gadgets as well as virtual environments for the robots to interact in. One team designed a virtual train station as well as robotic gadgets to operate in the station. The other team designed a virtual university campus as well as robotic gadgets that operated in that environment. Two versions of each robotic gadget were designed, such that the two versions differed with respect to one kawaii attribute (shape, size, etc.) Using these robots, we conducted a formal study that compared perceptions of kawaii robots between American college students and Japanese college students, as well as across genders. The findings revealed that there was not much difference in perception of kawaii across cultures and genders. Furthermore, the study shows that designing a robot to be more kawaii/cute appears to positively influence human preference for being around the robot. This study will inform our long-term goal of designing robots that are appealing across gender and culture.

Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention show that 53% of adults age 18 and older met the Physical Activity Guidelines of the Health and Human Services. Previously published research has established a decreasing level of physical fitness in college students. While VO□ max is an accurate predictor of aerobic fitness, due to the relative difficulty of performing the VO□ max, the data collected on student physical activity is often comprised of indirect measurements of fitness including BMI, self‐reported activity level, and estimates of aerobic fitness using VO□ max estimations. We hypothesize that fitness of college students reflects that of general population. Therefore, a comprehensive database was developed that comprised of VO□ max values of college students in a small Midwestern liberal arts institution to assess the physical fitness level of college students. VO□ max were measured in over 500 student‐athletes and non‐athletes over two decades. In addition, other measures of fitness such BM, maximum heart rate were collected. For our studies, we extracted data for analysis using a Python script. Our preliminary observations on a small sample subset suggest that fitness level remained constant over the two decades contrary to general population trends. Further analysis accounting for athletes versus non athlete may explain the apparent steadiness of fitness level. Our study suggests that VO□ Max of college students can provide insight into longitudinal changes in physical fitness.Support or Funding InformationDePauw University