Intriguing features in DA sample structures

Phase contrast highlights internal components of crystal chips

unique internal features (in white)

Hello! I've been steadily examining the behavior of dental anesthetics as they develop crystalline structures that exhibit discreet components. The images in this post will largely consist of phase contrast microscopy as this method appears uniquely capable of resolving internal aspects of crystals. I started these latest observations with the intention of capturing the initiation of the crystal development cycle under a coverslip. I achieved some success with that objective; however, another interesting development came to my attention once the crystal growth cycle had largely subsided & I began looking more closely at the current batch of crystals that had formed on my slide.

Phase vs (paupers) Darkfield comparison

Many were exhibiting unusual white growths that jut out at regular intervals from the primary structure, as well as visually distinct internal features that appear white under phase contrast.

Eye of Ra. Or something…

Perhaps these white components have been present in previous samples & I've only explicitly noticed their existence now. However, I'm quite certain the jutting (spines? bones?) are a unique and novel feature.

Spinal cord

I'm afraid I haven't got much to offer by way of explanation for the existence of these features or why they feature so distinctly in this particular sample. I'm utilizing a syringe to apply my droplets and the anesthetic itself was extracted from its vial many weeks ago. I've decided to reintroduce another drop of anesthetic along the edge of the coverslip to effectively deconstruct these structures and test whether the spine features will reconstruct.

Here is an example of the development process, timelapsed and played forwards and back a few times:

And another:

Here's an interesting timelapse showing the aggregation and migration of materials in the liquid phase, before crystals emerge.

Note the internal features

Here we see a perfect square structure in darkfield. Interestingly, the empty void encircling the object became more symmetrical itself over time. Does this suggest that these structures draw in construction materials from their surroundings within a perfect sphere of influence?

L: Before » R: After

GIF of square crystal growth

Above is just a bonus video from a previous sample. Appears to depict a multi-stage/layer development process.

I think that's about all for now. I'll be interested to see if these features reemerge from my dissolved sample, or if they begin to develop in different samples later on.

Until next time!

-Will

UPDATE EDIT: I’ve just processed a new timelapse with some great footage of new structures developing in my reconstructing sample. It pertains to this post so I’m adding it down here. Enjoy: