Hi Linda,
We engineered in some extra ventilation for this problem. We use a small
plastic tray with gauze in the bottom which is saturated with water to which
we add a few drops of ammonia now and then. We don't soak too long, probably
5 minutes and then ice the blocks. It really makes a difference in the ease
of cutting all blocks, even the easy ones like kidney and prostate. 
Mickie

Michael L Johnson, BS, HTL(ASCP)
Histology Supervisor
Department of Pathology
Sacred Heart Medical Center
W. 101 8th Avenue
Spokane, WA 99220

johnsom@shmc.org


-----Original Message-----
From: Ryan.Linda [mailto:ryan2@niehs.nih.gov]
Sent: Friday, June 23, 2000 8:26 AM
To: 'histonet'
Subject: soaking blocks


How many out in HistoLand soak your blocks in ice water with ammonium
hydroxide added?  What are the pros and cons(other that the odor!) of using
ammonium hydroxide?

Thanks  

Linda Ryan, BS, HT(ASCP)HTL
National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences
111  T. W. Alexander Dr.
Bldg./rm.: 101/C-262
P.O. Box 12233
Research Triangle Park, NC 27709
(919) 541-4880(Laboratory)