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Kanazawa University research: Atomic force microscopy in 3D

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KANAZAWA, Japan, July 2, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Researchers at Nano Life Science Institute (WPI-NanoLSI), Kanazawa University report in Small Methods the 3D imaging of a suspended nanostructure. The technique used is an extension of atomic force microscopy and is a promising approach for visualizing various 3D biological systems.

Atomic force microscopy (AFM) was originally invented for visualizing surfaces with nanoscale resolution. Its basic working principle is to move an ultrathin tip over a sample’s surface. During this xy-scanning motion, the tip’s position in the direction perpendicular to the xy-plane follows the sample’s height profile, resulting in a height map of the surface. In recent years, ways to extend the method to three-dimensional (3D) imaging have been explored, with researchers from Nano Life Science Institute (WPI-NanoLSI), Kanazawa University reporting pioneering experiments on living cells. However, for 3D-AFM to evolve into a widely applicable technique for visualizing flexible molecular structures, a thorough understanding of the imaging mechanisms at play is necessary. Now, Takeshi Fukuma from Kanazawa University and colleagues have performed a detailed study of a specially designed flexible sample, providing essential insights into the theoretical basis and the interpretation of 3D-AFM experiments.

Using microfabrication tools, the scientists created a sample consisting of a carbon nanotube fiber resting on platinum pillars that in turn were positioned on a silicon substrate. A carbon nanotube is a structure that one can think of as a rolled-up, one-atom-thick carbon sheet. The freestanding portion of the nanotube was about 2 micrometers long. The whole structure was immersed in water, as many 3D biomolecular systems of interest occur in liquid environments.

Fukuma and colleagues then performed 3D-AFM experiments in two different modes. In static mode, the nanotip is lowered vertically towards the sample. When the tip makes contact with the suspended nanotube fiber, the latter gets pushed aside, and bends while the probe descends further. In dynamic mode, the tip, which is attached to a cantilever, is made to oscillate at a resonance frequency while being lowered. By analyzing how the force experienced by the tip changes as a function of the tip’s depth, the researchers concluded that the friction between the tip and the fiber is much larger in static mode compared to dynamic mode. The latter is therefore the mode of choice, as less friction means that potential damage to the sample is less likely.

The scientists performed computer simulations to model what happens when the tip reaches the carbon nanotube fiber. The simulations confirmed that the suspended nanotube displaces laterally, and that a continuously vibrating tip (as in dynamical mode) results in weaker forces experienced by the sample, hindering strong adhesion of the tip to the fiber.

Fukuma and colleagues then performed experiments with a carbon nanotube fiber suspended above a regular pattern of nano-sized platinum dots deposited on a silicon substrate. The measurements were done in dynamical mode. The reconstructed 3D map of the scanned volume clearly showed the fiber and the dots below it, underlining the capability of 3D-AFM to image vertically overlapping nanostructures.

These findings show that AFM can generally be applied to visualize flexible 3D structures. Quoting the scientists: “… the advancements made in this study may potentially lead to more detailed and accurate AFM analysis of various 3D biological systems such as cells, organelles, chromosomes, and vesicles.”

Background

Atomic force microscopy

The principle behind atomic force microscopy (AFM) is to scan the surface of a sample with a very small tip. During this horizontal (xy) scan, the tip, attached to a small cantilever, follows the sample’s vertical (z) profile, which induces a force on the cantilever that can be measured. The magnitude of the force at the xy position can be related to the z value. The xyz data generated during a scan then result in a height map providing structural information about the investigated sample. The cantilever can be made to oscillate near its resonance frequency, which is referred to as dynamic mode AFM. Not letting the cantilever oscillate is known as static mode AFM. In dynamic mode, when the tip is moved around a surface, the variations in the amplitude (or the frequency) of the cantilever’s oscillation — resulting from the tip’s interaction with the sample’s surface — are recorded, as these provide a measure for the local z value.

Takeshi Fukuma and colleagues have now provided a detailed AFM analysis of a 3D reference sample with nanosized features that could be reconstructed with high precision. The experiments and accompanying simulations confirm that AFM has the potential to become a robust method for the characterization of 3D nanosized objects, including biological systems.

Reference

Mohammad Shahidul Alam, Marcos Penedo, Takashi Sumikama, Keisuke Miyazawa, Kaori Hirahara, and Takeshi Fukuma. Revealing the Mechanism Underlying 3D-AFM Imaging of Suspended Structures by Experiments and Simulations, Small methods, 2400287  (2024). First published : 21 June 2024

DOI: 10.1002/smtd.202400287

URL: https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/smtd.202400287

Figure 1. https://nanolsi.kanazawa-u.ac.jp/wp/wp-content/uploads/Figure-1-1.jpg 
Imaged nanostructure consisting of a suspended carbon nanotube with platinum nanodots beneath.

© 2024 Mohammad Shahidul Alam, et al., Small Methods published by Wiley-VCH GmbH

Contact

Hiroe Yoneda
Senior Specialist in Project Planning and Outreach
NanoLSI Administration Office, Nano Life Science Institute (WPI-NanoLSI)
Kanazawa University
Kakuma-machi, Kanazawa 920-1192, Japan
Email: nanolsi-office@adm.kanazawa-u.ac.jp
Tel: +81 (76) 234-4555

About Nano Life Science Institute (WPI-NanoLSI), Kanazawa University

Understanding nanoscale mechanisms of life phenomena by exploring “uncharted nano-realms”

Cells are the basic units of almost all life forms. We are developing nanoprobe technologies that allow direct imaging, analysis, and manipulation of the behavior and dynamics of important macromolecules in living organisms, such as proteins and nucleic acids, at the surface and interior of cells. We aim at acquiring a fundamental understanding of the various life phenomena at the nanoscale.

https://nanolsi.kanazawa-u.ac.jp/en/

About the World Premier International Research Center Initiative (WPI)

The WPI program was launched in 2007 by Japan’s Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology (MEXT) to foster globally visible research centers boasting the highest standards and outstanding research environments. Numbering more than a dozen and operating at institutions throughout the country, these centers are given a high degree of autonomy, allowing them to engage in innovative modes of management and research. The program is administered by the Japan Society for the Promotion of Science (JSPS).

See the latest research news from the centers at the WPI News Portal: https://www.eurekalert.org/newsportal/WPI

Main WPI program site: 

www.jsps.go.jp/english/e-toplevel

About Kanazawa University

As the leading comprehensive university on the Sea of Japan coast, Kanazawa University has contributed greatly to higher education and academic research in Japan since it was founded in 1949. The University has three colleges and 17 schools offering courses in subjects that include medicine, computer engineering, and humanities.

The University is located on the coast of the Sea of Japan in Kanazawa – a city rich in history and culture. The city of Kanazawa has a highly respected intellectual profile since the time of the fiefdom (1598-1867). Kanazawa University is divided into two main campuses: Kakuma and Takaramachi for its approximately 10,200 students including 600 from overseas.

http://www.kanazawa-u.ac.jp/e/

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Automotive Seat Heater Market to Reach $5.5 Billion, Globally, by 2033 at 6% CAGR: Allied Market Research

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September 20, 2024

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Key factors contributing to the growth of the automotive heat seater market include advancements in heating technology, such as the integration of more efficient heating elements and improved temperature control systems.

WILMINGTON, Del., Sept. 20, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Allied Market Research published a report, titled, “Automotive seat heater Market by Type (Carbon Heater and Composite Heater), Vehicle Type (Passenger Cars and Commercial Vehicles), and Sales Channel (OEM and Aftermarket): Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 2024-2033″. According to the report, the automotive seat heater market was valued at $3.1 billion in 2023, and is estimated to reach $5.5 billion by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 6% from 2024 to 2033.

The global automotive seat heaters market is driven by increased demand for comfort and customization. As increasing numbers of individuals utilize the roads, the number of affordable vehicles available in recent years has skyrocketed. As a result, there is a greater need for vehicles with interiors that are both visually appealing and practical. The market for vehicle interior materials is being driven by rising consumer demand for customization and technical developments across the industry. In response to client demand, companies are now offering customization choices for creating modern interiors. Consumers increasing health consciousness is also driving the development of environmentally friendly automotive interior materials that contribute to increased comfort. 

Request Sample of the Report on Automotive Seat Heater Market   Forecast 2033: https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/request-sample/A323768

Prime determinants of growth 

The growing level of competition in the automotive industry is a primary driver of the automotive seat heater market’s expansion. Furthermore, improving consumer affordability, rising consumer income, and the availability of easy financing to purchase a vehicle are all driving forces in the global automobile sector. Furthermore, expansion in the automobile industry causes growth in the global market. Rising popularity of carbon fiber technology, rising demand for comfort and energy efficiency in vehicles, and rising preferences for high-end passenger cars are some of the major and insightful factors that will most likely drive the growth of the automotive seat heater market during the forecast period. The health benefits, such as reduction from discomfort backs and rapid warming, are driving market expansion. The expanding aftermarket sales of car seat heaters are driving the market forward.

Have a Question? Connect to our Analyst – https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/connect-to-analyst/A323768

By Type 

The carbon heater segment is expected to grow faster throughout the forecast period.

The carbon heater segment is anticipated to experience faster growth in the automotive seat heater market. Carbon fiber meshed weave heating pads will remain the largest market segment as this type of seat heater ensures good strength and requires very low voltage to produce heat. a growing preference for energy-efficient and environmentally friendly components, aligning with the broader push towards sustainable automotive solutions. The integration of advanced technologies, such as automatic climate control systems that adjust seat heating based on ambient temperature and individual preferences, is becoming increasingly popular.  

By Vehicle Type

The passenger car segment is expected to grow faster throughout the forecast period.

The passenger car segment is anticipated to experience growth in the automotive seat heater market. The increasing expenditure on passenger and driver comfort. The development of premium features and the surge in passenger vehicle numbers in Europe and North America significantly contribute to this growth. Additionally, there is a rising demand for SUVs and luxury vehicles in emerging markets. Automotive manufacturers are continuously innovating electronic technologies, which create new opportunities for the application of heated seats in passenger cars. This trend is further bolstered by the emphasis on enhancing vehicle comfort and the integration of advanced climate control systems. 

Procure Complete Report (324 Pages PDF with In-depth Insights, Charts, Tables, and Figures): https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/checkout-final/automotive-seat-heater-market-A323768

By Sales Channel

The aftermarket segment is expected to grow faster throughout the forecast period.

The aftermarket segment is anticipated to experience growth in the automotive seat heater market. One of the standardization of temperature control seats in various mid-range and high-end vehicles is helping the OEM section of the automobile seat heater industry. Seat heater replacement rates are predicted to rise due to excessive wear and tear, as well as changing climatic circumstances in cold locations, driving up aftermarket sales. When compared to OEM products, aftermarket products are more cost-effective. Furthermore, owners of vehicles without seat heaters add this equipment in the aftermarket, which boosts seat heater aftermarket sales.

By Region

Europe to maintain its dominance by 2033.

Europe is expected to maintain its dominance in the automotive heat seater market by 2033 owing to robust industrialization, infrastructural development, and growing investments in automotive and manufacturing sectors. has witnessed a surge in the popularity and necessity of automotive seat heaters. As the nation’s economy expands and consumer prosperity grows, there is a corresponding increase in the demand for vehicles equipped with advanced comfort amenities. Once considered a luxury, seat heaters are now becoming more accessible to a wider demographic, fueling their adoption among consumers.

Europe will maintain its pivotal role as a significant market for automotive seat heaters. This is primarily due to the increasing demand from end users who prioritize cabin comfort, especially in the winter months. Seat heaters are favored for their ability to significantly enhance occupant comfort during this season.

Players: –

Continental AGPanasonic CorporationGentherm IncorporatedII-VI IncorporatedRoadwire LLCRostra Precision Controls Inc.Firsten Automotive Electronics Co., Ltd.Guangzhou Tachibana Electronic Co., Ltd.SINOMASChampion Auto Systems

The report provides a detailed analysis of these key players in the global automotive seat heater market. These players have adopted different strategies such as new product launches, collaborations, expansion, joint ventures, agreements, and others to increase their market share and maintain dominant shares in different regions. The report is valuable in highlighting business performance, operating segments, product portfolio, and strategic moves of market players to showcase the competitive scenario. 

Recent Industry News

In August 2020, Lear and Gentherm introduced INTU™ Thermal Comfort Seating with ClimateSense™ Technology.

For More In-depth Insights: https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/automotive-seat-heater-market-A323768

AVENUE- A Subscription-Based Library (Premium on-demand, subscription-based pricing model) Offered by Allied Market Research:

AMR introduces its online premium subscription-based library Avenue, designed specifically to offer cost-effective, one-stop solution for enterprises, investors, and universities. With Avenue, subscribers can avail an entire repository of reports on more than 2,000 niche industries and more than 12,000 company profiles. Moreover, users can get an online access to quantitative and qualitative data in PDF and Excel formats along with analyst support, customization, and updated versions of reports.

Get an access to the library of reports at any time from any device and anywhere. For more details, follow the link: https://www.alliedmarketresearch.com/library-access

About Allied Market Research:

Allied Market Research (AMR) is a full-service market research and business-consulting wing of Allied Analytics LLP based in Wilmington, Delaware. Allied Market Research provides global enterprises as well as medium and small businesses with unmatched quality of “Market Research Reports” and “Business Intelligence Solutions.” AMR has a targeted view to provide business insights and consulting to assist its clients to make strategic business decisions and achieve sustainable growth in their respective market domains. AMR offers its services across 11 industry verticals including Life Sciences, Consumer Goods, Materials & Chemicals, Construction & Manufacturing, Food & Beverages, Energy & Power, Semiconductor & Electronics, Automotive & Transportation, ICT & Media, Aerospace & Defense, and BFSI.

We are in professional corporate relations with various companies and this helps us in digging out market data that helps us generate accurate research data tables and confirms utmost accuracy in our market forecasting. Allied Market Research CEO Pawan Kumar is instrumental in inspiring and encouraging everyone associated with the company to maintain high quality of data and help clients in every way possible to achieve success. Each and every data presented in the reports published by us is extracted through primary interviews with top officials from leading companies of domain concerned. Our secondary data procurement methodology includes deep online and offline research and discussion with knowledgeable professionals and analysts in the industry.

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/R E P E A T — MEDIA ADVISORY – Minister Wilkinson to Make a Critical Minerals Infrastructure Announcement/

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VANCOUVER, BC, Sept. 19, 2024 /CNW/ – The Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, Minister of Energy and Natural Resources, and Ranj Pillai, the Premier of Yukon, will make a funding announcement in support of critical minerals infrastructure projects. A media availability will follow.

Date: September 20, 2024

Time: 10:30 a.m. PT

All accredited media are asked to pre-register by emailing media@nrcan-rncan.gc.ca. A dial-in line is available for media and will be provided upon registration.

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Olink Proteomics Announces the ‘Olink Proteomics World’ Virtual Conference: A Novel Platform Exploring the Latest Advancements in Proteomics and Proteogenomics

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September 20, 2024

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The ‘Olink Proteomics World’ Virtual Conference will bring together scientists from around the globe to explore the latest advancements in proteomics and proteogenomics across fields such as immunology, oncology, neuroscience, aging, and inflammation on September 26th, 2024.

WALTHAM, Mass., Sept. 20, 2024 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — Olink Proteomics, part of Thermo Fisher Scientific, a leading provider of advances proteomics solutions, is exited to announce its upcoming virtual conference, Olink Proteomics World, on September 26th, 2024.

The digital event features presentations from esteemed scientists and provides a platform to connect with peers, identify potential collaborations, and explore advanced protein biomarker discovery tools and results.

This innovative virtual conference will bring together scientists from around the globe to explore the latest advancements in proteomics and proteogenomics across fields such as immunology, oncology, neuroscience, aging, and inflammation. The digital event features presentations from esteemed scientists and provides a platform to connect with peers, identify potential collaborations, and explore advanced protein biomarker discovery tools and results.

Our lineup of esteemed presenters will cover a wide range of topics, including:

The Aged Tumor Microenvironment: Understanding how aging influences the tumor microenvironment and its implications for cancer therapy.Infectious Diseases Dynamics: Unravelling how proteomics can enhance our understanding and management of infectious diseases.Alzheimer’s Diagnostics and Disease Monitoring: Exploring the latest tools and biomarkers for early detection and monitoring of Alzheimer’s disease.Aging Mechanisms: Insights into the biological processes of aging and how they can inform healthcare strategies.Predicting Disease Risks: Utilizing multiomics data to forecast disease risks and improve preventive measures.Genetics and Proteomics of Obesity: Investigating the complex interplay between genetics, proteomics, and obesity.Microbiome Transplantation Effects: Evaluating the impact of faecal transplants on human health and disease.Biomarker Discovery in Multiple Sclerosis: Cutting-edge research on identifying biomarkers for better diagnosis and treatment of Multiple Sclerosis.

In addition to these topics, our speakers will delve into various aspects of multiomics research, offering insights into how integrated approaches are shaping the future of personalized medicine and healthcare.

To see the full agenda and list of speakers for this event click here.

In addition to expert presentations, attendees can participate in interactive sessions, visit the digital poster hall, and engage in real-time Q&A sessions with speakers.

For further information about the event & to register for free, click here.

About Olink Proteomics
Olink’s mission is to accelerate proteomics together with the scientific community, to understand real-time biology and gain actionable insights into human health and disease. Our innovative solutions deliver highly sensitive and accurate protein quantification, giving scientists the power to investigate complex biological processes with precision.

About Labroots
Labroots is the leading scientific social networking website, & primary source for scientific trending news & premier educational virtual events & webinars & more. Contributing to the advancement of science through content sharing capabilities, Labroots is a powerful advocate in amplifying global networks & communities. Founded in 2008, Labroots emphasizes digital innovation in scientific collaboration & learning. Offering more than articles & webcasts that go beyond the mundane & explore the latest discoveries in the world of science, Labroots users can stay atop their field by gaining continuing education credits from a wide range of topics through their participation in the webinars & virtual events.

Media Contact

Akshay Masand, Labroots, 714-463-4673, akshay.masand@labroots.com, https://olink.com/ 

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