> "I got the idea of using espresso as a staining agent from the circular dried stains in used coffee cups,"
Suuure...
> "I got the idea of using espresso as a staining agent from the circular dried stains in used coffee cups," says Claudia Mayrhofer, who is responsible for ultramicrotomy at the institute. During preparation, she cuts tissue samples into wafer-thin slices and fixes them onto sample holders. Staining is the last step before examination under the electron microscope.
I'm curious about the grad student who is the second author on the research paper. Is he the one tasked with the current-SOP staining with (radioactive and poisonous) uranyl acetate? Was it his overworked-and-drowsy "oopsie" which lead to the discovery?
Radioactive substances go beyond that, generally being handled in their own dedicated area that no one else is permitted to enter for any reason. The level of paranoia is actually fairly impressive (but obviously necessary).
- so easily distinguished from espresso. OTOH...
https://www.google.com/search?q=far+side+comic+culture+of+am...
So, coffee, tea and Uranyl acetate...
Or perhaps it _has_ been done and that's why nearly everyone uses uranyl acetate? And perhaps coffee was tried decades ago and found to be generally inferior?
Oh I see - Uranyl Acetate is radioactive and this replaces it. Fun!
This seems like a friendly chemical too - “ The chemical properties of Osmium Tetroxide are such that use and handling of the chemical is often considered daunting. Although its volatility and toxicity certainly makes it a dangerous chemical, but when following the proper procedure and taking the necessary precautions, Osmium Tetroxide can be used to its full potential with limited risk to the user.
This is more toxic than glutaraldehyde and has a higher vapour pressure. Particular care must be taken to avoid breathing the vapour or allowing it to affect the eyes. ”
[edit] oh, I guess coffee is acidic, so maybe it’s not that different. I was thinking of using it as a stain at first
hahahahhaah•5d ago