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Acanthostomum gnerii és un digenea frecuentemente reportado en el intestino de Siluriformes y bien distribuida en el centro y suramérica. El objetivo de este estudio es proporcionar información adicional sobre las características morfológicas de la A. gnerii por secciones histológicas y microscopio electrónico de barrido, así como para proporcionar mediciones comparativas de Acanthostomum spp.. Diferente de registros anteriores de este helminto en Rhamdia sp., los espécimes de presente estudio presentearon dos brazos en la porción anterior del cuerpo luego después de la faringe. Ellos se juntan en un poro lateral en el lado esquierdo del cuerpo semelhante al observado en A. proctophorum y A. minimum. Esta morfología no hay sido descripta como característica válida para Acanthostomidae. La variación morfológica podria estar asociada a diferentes poblaciones de la misma especie. Nuevos estudios usando tecnicas moleculares son recomendados para certificar se esta característica coresponde a la diversidad de A. gnerii encuentrada en otras especies de peces.

Anetoderma (anetos, Greek for slack) [1], also known as macular atrophy, is a rare elastolytic disorder characterized by circumscribed areas of flaccid skin due to focal loss of dermal elastic tissue, resulting in normochromic or erythematous papules and plaques with a wrinkled and atrophic surface.

Resumo Este estudo objetivou quantificar minerais presentes em genótipos de batata-doce de polpa colorida, selecionados e cultivados pela Embrapa (Empresa Brasileira de Pesquisa Agropecuária), no sul do Rio Grande do Sul, bem como verificar o percentual de adequação de consumo em grupos de risco nutricional. Genótipos de batata-doce cultivados no Banco Ativo de Germoplasma ‒ polpa branca (Rubissol, ILS 12, ILS 10, ILS 24); polpa creme (Cuia, ILS 03, ILS 44); polpa amarela/laranja (Amélia e Beauregard); polpa roxa (ILS 56, ILS 16 e ILS 71) ‒ foram analisados em triplicata. Os minerais foram quantificados por espectrometria de absorção atômica e os resultados foram expressos em miligrama do mineral correspondente a 100 g-1 de amostra úmida. Cálculos dos percentuais de adequação da ingestão diária recomendada de cada genótipo para grupos de risco (crianças entre 4 e 8 anos e gestantes entre 19 e 30 anos), com base no consumo de uma porção média de 200 g diários, foram realizados. As batatas-doces apresentaram grande variação na quantidade de minerais entre os genótipos e o potássio foi o mais abundante em todos estes, com destaque para os genótipos ILS 44, ILS 56 e ILS 71. Os genótipos de coloração roxa se sobressaíram na quantidade de potássio e os de coloração creme, na quantidade de fósforo. O consumo de uma porção média de 200 g de qualquer uma das batatas-doces forneceria 28% da necessidade de magnésio a crianças de 4 a 8 anos, e em torno de 20% das necessidades diárias de magnésio e 10% de potássio para gestantes. Abstract The objective of this work was to quantify the minerals present in coloured pulp sweet potato genotypes, selected and cultivated by Embrapa (Empresa Brasileira de Pesquisa Agropecuária), in the southern region of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, as well as checking their percentage adequacy for consumption by groups at nutritional risk. The following sweet potato genotypes grown in the Active Germplasm Bank were analysed in triplicate: white pulp (Rubissol, ILS 12, ILS 10 and ILS 24); cream pulp (Cuia, ILS 03 and ILS 44); yellow/orange pulp (Amélia and Beauregard); and purple pulp (ILS 56, ILS 16 and ILS 71). The minerals were quantified by atomic absorption spectrometry and expressed as mg of the corresponding mineral per 100 g-1 of fresh weight. The percentages of adequacy of the recommended daily intake of each genotype for risk groups (children between 4 and 8 years old and pregnant women between 19 and 30 years old) based on the consumption of an average portion of 200 g per day, were calculated. The sweet potatoes showed great variation in the minerals amongst the genotypes, and potassium was the most abundant in all of them, especially in the genotypes ILS 44, ILS 56 and ILS 71. The purple coloured genotypes stood out for their potassium contents and the cream coloured genotypes for their phosphorus contents. The consumption of a portion about 200 g of any sweet potatoes would provide 28% of the magnesium requirement for children, aged 4 to 8 years, and about 20% of the daily requirement of magnesium and 10% of potassium, for pregnant women.

The objective of this study was to produce encapsulated protein hydrolysates from Whitemouth croaker (Micropogonias furnieri) muscle and its industrialization byproduct. The protein hydrolysates were prepared from the muscle (MPH) and byproduct (BPH) from croaker by enzymatic hydrolysis using Flavourzyme®. The hydrolysates were encapsulated using phosphatidylcholine as the wall material of the capsules. The capsules were evaluated for particle size, polydispersity, encapsulation efficiency, zeta potential, morphology, thermal properties, Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and antioxidant activity. The average size of the capsules for both MPH and BPH liposomes range between 266 and 263 nm with low polydispersity. The capsules showed high encapsulation efficiency of around 80%. The FTIR analysis allowed suggesting that there was an effective ionic complexation between phosphatidylcholine and hydrolysate peptides. The antioxidant activity of the hydrolysates and capsules containing MPH and BPH was similar to the activity of α-tocoferol, but lower than that of vitamin C.

Sweet potato ( Ipomoea batatas (L.) Lam) is one of the most popular and ancient roots of Brazil and it can be consumed at different forms such as boiled, roasted or as sweets. Its cooking can lead to physicochemical transformations altering the nutritional properties. The objective of this study was to evaluate the physicochemical characteristics, bioactive compounds and antioxidant capacity of twelve sweet potato genotypes of varying pulp color in natura and roasted. Soluble solids, acidity, sugars, carotenoids, anthocyanins, phenolic compounds and antioxidant capacity were analyzed in the following sweet potatoes genotypes: cream pulp (Rubissol, Cuia, ILS03, ILS10, ILS12, ILS24 and ILS44); orange pulp (Amelia and Beauregard); and purple pulp (ILS56, ILS16 and ILS71). According to the results, it was observed a wide variation among the sweet potato genotypes for all analyzed parameters, in both preparation forms. The antioxidant capacity was a parameter with wide variation among genotypes, 210.29 to 7870.57µg trolox equivalent/g in in natura form and 673.26 to 17306.22µg trolox equivalent/g in roasted form. Soluble solids, acidity, sugars and bioactive compounds, with the exception of carotenoids, tended to be concentrated, also increases the total antioxidant capacity, in roasted sweet potatoes. In conclusion, genotype and the color of sweet potatoes were parameters that had an influence on its chemical composition. Cultivars such as Amelia and Beauregard stood out by the amounts of total soluble solids and carotenoids, respectively. The selections ILS 16 and ILS 56 are recommended as sources of anthocyanins. Thermal process influenced the concentration of antioxidant compounds and changed some physicochemical characteristics. RESUMO: A batata-doce ( Ipomoea batatas (L.) Lam) é uma das raízes mais populares e antigas do Brasil, podendo ser consumida cozida, assada ou na forma de doces. A sua cocção pode levar à transformações físico-químicas alterando as propriedades nutricionais. O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar as características físico-químicas, compostos bioativos e atividade antioxidante de doze genótipos de batata-doce, de coloração de polpa variada, na forma in natura e assada. Foram determinados sólidos solúveis totais, acidez, açúcares, carotenoides, antocianinas, compostos fenólicos e atividade antioxidante nos seguintes genótipos de batatas-doces: polpa creme (Rubissol, Cuia, ILS03, ILS10, ILS12, ILS24 e ILS44); polpa laranja (Amélia e Beauregard) e polpa roxa (ILS56, ILS16 e ILS71). Quanto aos resultados foi observada ampla variação entre os genótipos de batata-doce, para todos os parâmetros analisados, em ambas as formas de preparo. A atividade antioxidante foi um parâmetro que demonstrou grande variação entre os genótipos, de 210,29 a 7870,57µg de equivalente trolox/g nos genótipos in natura e de 673,26 a 17306,22µg de equivalente trolox/g nos genótipos assados. Foi observado que em batatas-doces assadas os sólidos solúveis, acidez, açúcares e os compostos bioativos, com exceção dos carotenoides, tenderam a ser concentrados, elevando também a atividade antioxidante total. Em conclusão, o genótipo e a coloração da batata-doce foram parâmetros que exerceram influência sob a sua composição química. Cultivares como Amélia e Beauregard se destacaram pela quantidade de sólidos solúveis totais e carotenoides, respectivamente. Como fonte de antocianinas, as seleções ILS 16 e ILS 56 são recomendadas. O processo térmico influenciou a concentração de compostos antioxidantes e alterou algumas características físico-químicas.

UNLABELLED Soybeans were hydrothermally treated at 2 different temperatures (40 °C and 60 °C) and for 4 different hydration times (4, 8, 12, and 16 h) to (i) increase the isoflavone aglycone content in a soy protein isolate and (ii) evaluate the changes in thermal, functional, and structural properties of a soy protein isolate as a function of hydrothermal treatment conditions. Our study is the first to evaluate aglycone content, extraction yield, β-glucosidase activity, differential scanning calorimetry, protein digestibility, scanning electron microscopy, water absorption capacity (WAC), foaming capacity (FC), and foaming stability of soy protein isolates prepared from hydrothermally treated soybeans. For aglycone enhancement and the extraction yield maintenance of soy protein isolates, the condition of 40 °C for 12 h was the best soybean hydrothermal treatment. The structural rearrangement of proteins that occurred with the hydrothermal treatment most likely promoted the capacity of proteins to bind to aglycone. Moreover, the structure shape and size of soy protein isolates verified by scanning electron microscopy appears to be related to the formation of hydrophobic surfaces and hydrophobic zones at 40 °C and 60 °C, respectively, affecting the protein digestibility, WAC, and FC of soy protein isolates. PRACTICAL APPLICATION The aglycone content in the soy protein isolate can be improved with the hydrothermal treatment of soybeans. The temperature and time used for hydrothermal treatment must be selected in order to achieve a soy protein isolate with high aglycone content, extraction yield, and functionality. This technology is suitable for providing healthier soy protein isolates for food industry with improved functional and structural properties.

Helicometrina nimia (Opecoelidae) is a digenean with wide distribution. Fish families most commonly used as hosts for H. nimia are Serranidae, Pomodasydae, Scorpaenidae and Clinidae. In the present study, a new host and a new host locality are presented for the species. A description of the studied specimens, besides comments concerning its taxonomic status and biometrically compared tables of H. nimia reports are given. The taxonomic status of members of Helicometrina has been questionable. The greatest controversy for the genus seems to be related to the validity of diagnostic features, especially in regard to the number of testes. In the present study, all studied specimens presented a permanent and steady number of testes (n=9) and therefore its use as a diagnostic character is supported by the present authors. Epinephelus marginatus is considered a new host for Helicometrina nimia, and São Paulo state, southeastern Brazil, a new locality for the species.

'BRS Clara' é uma nova cultivar de batata para comercialização na forma fresca, liberada em 2010. Foi desenvolvida pelo Programa de Melhoramento de Batata da Embrapa, selecionada para aparência e rendimento de tubérculos, e resistência foliar à requeima, causada por Phytophthora infestans. Os tubérculos têm película amarela lisa, polpa creme, formato oval-alongado e olhos rasos. Seu potencial produtivo é alto. Na região Sul do Brasil, 'BRS Clara' apresentou rendimento de tubérculos mais elevado ou semelhante à cultivar Agata e não diferiu da 'Asterix'. No outono, apresentou rendimento total e comercial de tubérculos maiores que 'Agata', sendo que a superioridade foi relacionada à resistência à requeima da 'BRS Clara'. Na primavera, não diferiu da 'Agata' e 'Asterix'. O peso específico da 'BRS Clara' foi mais alto que da 'Agata' e mais baixo que da 'Asterix'. 'BRS Clara' mostrou baixa incidência de defeitos fisiológicos. Quanto à aptidão aos principais usos culinários, classificou-se como regularmente boa a boa para salada, ligeiramente boa para assar, e variou de ruim a boa para fritar na forma de palitos. A resistência ao esverdeamento dos tubérculos foi moderada. Apresentou moderada a alta resistência à requeima. Observações de campo indicam que 'BRS Clara' tem resistência moderada à pinta-preta e suscetibilidade ao mosaico (PVY) e ao enrolamento da folha (PLRV). 'BRS Clara' is a new potato cultivar for the fresh market, released in 2010. It was developed by the Potato Breeding Program of Embrapa, selected for tuber appearance and yield, and foliar resistance to late blight caused by Phytophthora infestans. The tubers have yellow and smooth skin, cream colored flesh, elongated-oval shape and shallow eyes. It has high yield potential. In the South region of Brazil, 'BRS Clara' yielded higher or not different from Agata cultivar, and did not differ from 'Asterix'. In the autumn season, it yielded higher than 'Agata' for total and marketable tubers. This superiority was related to late blight resistance of 'BRS Clara'. In the spring season, it did not differ from 'Agata' and 'Asterix'. The specific gravity of 'BRS Clara' was higher than of 'Agata', and lower than of 'Asterix'. 'BRS Clara' had low incidence of physiological defects. In relation to the main culinary uses, it was rated as regularly good to good for salad, lightly good for baking, and varied from poor to good for French fries. The resistance to greening was moderate. It showed moderate to high resistance to late blight. Field observations indicate that 'BRS Clara' has moderate resistance to early blight, and susceptibility to mosaic (PVY) and leafroll (PLRV).

Objective: To evaluate the solubility of three restorative materials exposed to the different endodontic solvents. Materials and Methods: The organic solvents eucalyptus oil, xylol, chloroform, and orange oil, with distilled water as the control group was utilized. The restorative materials light-cured resin (Filtek Z250/3M ESPE), light-cured-resin-reinforced glass ionomer (Riva Light Cure LC/Southern Dental Industries SDI]) and resin-modified glass ionomer (Vitremer/3M ESPE) were analyzed. A total of 50 disks containing specimens (2 mm Χ 8 mm Ø) were prepared for each of the three classes of restorative materials, which were divided into 10 groups (n = 5) for immersion in eucalyptus oil, xylol, chloroform, orange oil or distilled water for periods of either 2 min or 10 min. The means of restorative material disintegration in solvents were obtained by the difference between the original preimmersion weight and the postimmersion weight in a digital analytical scale. Data were statistically analyzed by two-way analysis of variance while the difference between the materials was analyzed by Student-Newman-Keuls test. The significance level set at 0.05. Results: Vitremer showed the highest solubility, followed by Riva LC, and these were statistically different from eucalyptus oil, xylol, chloroform, and distilled water (P < 0.05). Regarding the immersion time in solvents, there were no significant differences between the two tested periods (P > 0.05). Conclusions: The solvents minimally degraded the composite resin, although they did influence the degradation of both resin-modified glass ionomer resin and resin reinforced with glass ionomer.

ObjectivesThe aim of this study was to compare, by scanning electron microscopy analysis, the cleaning efficacy of a 2.5% sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) and a 17% ethylenediaminetetra-acetic acid (EDTA) solution with the two solutions either applied alternately or mixed together for smear layer removal after the use of each endodontic file in different root thirds.Materials and methodsFifty-four single-rooted human maxillary premolars were used and divided into three groups. Manual instrumentation was performed with K-Flexofiles with the crown-down technique; and divided in Group 1: canal preparation was performed with 2.5% NaOCl mixed with 17% EDTA in the root canal. Group 2: irrigation was performed alternately with 2.5% NaOCl and 17% EDTA. Group 3: only 2.5% NaOCl was used during all instrumentation and EDTA for 3min at the final. The mean scores for the smear layer by SEM after the use of each file were calculated and analysed.ResultsA statistically significant difference (P

Molluscum contagiosum is a disease caused by a poxvirus. It is more prevalent in children up to 5 years of age. There is a second peak of incidence in young adults. In order to examine its ultrastructure, three lesions were curetted without disruption, cut transversely with a scalpel, and routinely processed for scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The oval structure of molluscum contagiosum could be easily identified. In its core, there was a central umbilication and just below this depression, there was a keratinized tunnel. Under higher magnification, a proliferation similar to the epidermis was seen. Moreover, there were areas of cells disposed like a mosaic. Under higher magnification, rounded structures measuring 0.4 micron could be observed at the end of the keratinized tunnel and on the surface of the lesion. Molusco contagioso é uma dermatovirose causada por um poxvírus, sendo mais prevalente em crianças com até 5 anos de idade. Um segundo pico de incidência é encontrado em adultos jovens. Com o objetivo de demonstrar sua ultraestrutura três lesões foram curetadas sem rompê-las, cortadas transversalmente e processadas de rotina para microscopia eletrônica de varredura. A estrutura oval do Molusco contagioso pôde ser facilmente observada, no seu centro há uma umbilicação central e logo abaixo observa-se um túnel queratinizado. Com aumentos progressivos observam-se proliferações semelhantes à epiderme e áreas de células dispostas em mosaico. Com grandes aumentos estruturas arredondadas medindo 0,4 micron são vistas no final do túnel queratinizado e na superfície da lesão.

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of different iron concentrations on growth characteristics, antioxidant enzyme activities, nutrient absorption, and anatomical changes in sweet potato (Ipomoea batatas L.). To accomplish this, seedlings from apical branches of plants that had already been established in the greenhouse were rooted in a hydroponic sponge and then transplanted into a hydroponic system intermittently for 2 weeks and irrigated with nutrient solutions containing iron (ferric-EDTA) at concentrations of 0.45, 0.9, 4.5, and 9.0 mmol L−1. Height, leaf area, and total biomass were significantly reduced at iron concentrations of 4.5 and 9.0 mmol L−1. The iron concentrations in the established leaves and those that developed after the solution supplementation increased significantly. The amounts of other nutrients were also affected, with manganese showing the most significant decrease. The activities of the antioxidant enzymes, superoxide dismutase, and ascorbate peroxidase increased in plants grown in the 9.0 mmol L−1 iron solution. At this concentration, however, the stomatal densities were reduced on the abaxial surfaces of the leaves, although the stomatal diameters increased. The ultrastructures of the radical cells showed mitochondrial impairment at high iron concentrations; however, the chloroplast structures remained unaffected.

Braga, A.L., Nakayama, C.L., Suita de Castro, L.A. and Wasielesky, W. 2013. Spermatozoa ultrastructure of the pink shrimp Farfantepenaeus paulensis (Decapoda: Dendrobranchiata). —Acta Zoologica (Stockholm) 94: 119–124. The spermatozoa ultrastructure of the pink shrimp Farfantepenaeus paulensis was investigated in this morphological study. Spermatophores and spermatozoa were analyzed by electron microscopy. The pink shrimp spermatophore is divided into two regions: the appendage and the spermatophore main body, where spermatozoa are grouped in a spermatic mass. Pink shrimp spermatozoa are unistellate and are composed of main body and single spike. The spermatozoa body comprises a perinuclear cytoplasmic band, nucleus, acrosomal cap, and subacrosomal region. The spermatozoa cell mean total length was 10.71 lm, the mean body diameter was 5.56 lm, and the mean spike length and diameter were 5.15 lm and 0.85 lm, respectively.

This study investigated the effects of annealing (ANN) on the properties of rice starches with high, medium and low-amylose contents. The starches were heated with excess water at 45 °C, 50 °C and 55 °C for 16 h. The swelling power, solubility, pasting properties, enzymatic susceptibility, morphology and X-ray crystallinity of the starches were evaluated. Annealing reduced the swelling power and solubility of the starches. ANN at 55 °C increased the pasting temperature and decreased the peak viscosity of the high-amylose rice starch. However, annealing decreased the peak viscosity of the low-amylose starch. The annealed rice starches presented a lower final viscosity and setback than did the native starches, with the exception of the low-amylose starch, which showed an increase in setback. Annealing increased the starches’ susceptibilities to α-amylase and promoted a reduction in their relative crystallinity.

The effect of heat-moisture treatment (HMT) on the properties of rice starches with high-, medium- and low-amylose content was investigated. The starches were adjusted to 15%, 20% and 25% moisture levels, and heated at 110 °C for 1 h. The swelling power, solubility, pasting properties, morphology, enzymatic susceptibility and X-ray crystallinity of the starches were evaluated. HMT reduced the swelling power and solubility of the starches. The strongest effect of HMT occurred on the high-amylose starch; the pasting temperature was increased and the peak viscosity, breakdown, final viscosity and the setback were reduced. HMT increased the starch’s susceptibility to α-amylase and promoted a reduction in the starch relative crystallinity.

In this study, scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used to evaluate the adaptation of the first apical file after preflaring in mesiobuccal (MB) and mesiolingual (ML) canals of mandibular molars considering the tactile sensibility as a reference. The mesial canals (n = 22) of human mandibular molar teeth were used, and the first instrument to bind to the working length was determined after preflaring and crown-down shaping. Digital images of the root apex were acquired and a single examiner determined the contact of the file with the walls using Image J software. The results showed that the file was in contact in 47.83% and 31.71% in the MB and ML canals, respectively. When the apexes are fused, the average was 40.03%. A descriptive analysis showed that the first apical file did not touch all dentin walls in any of the samples.

Introduction To determine the morphologic shape and position of the root apex and the major foramen in maxillary and mandibular teeth. Methods A total of 845 maxillary and mandibular human teeth root specimens were evaluated. Each root specimen was measured at each root apex by using a calibrated microscope at a magnification of 20×. The anatomic parameters evaluated included the position of the root apex and the major foramen (in the center, buccal, lingual, mesial, or distal) and shapes of peripheral contours of the major foramen (rounded, oval, asymmetric, and semilunar) and root apex (rounded, flat, beveled, and elliptical). All data were summarized, and means, frequencies, and percentages were calculated for each group of specimens (incisors, canines, premolars, and molars). Results The most frequent root apex morphology in maxillary and mandibular teeth was the round shape (35.1%). The most frequent shape of the apical foramen was round (52.9%) or oval (25.2%). The major location of both the root apex (39.7%) and the major foramen (58.4%) was in the center of the root. Conclusion The most frequent root apex morphology and apical foramen in the maxillary and mandibular teeth was the round followed by the oval shape. The most prevalent location of the root apex and the major foramen was in the center followed by the distal position.

Connective tissue nevi may be multiple or solitary, sporadic or familial. Eruptive collagenoma is a variant of the acquired collagenomas characterized by multiple sclerotic papules with an acute onset. A 13-year-old girl reported that in the past year, small asymptomatic lesions began to appear in her skin, 30 lesions were seen in the trunk, 5 in the cervical region and 1 in the face. Light microscopy with hematoxylin and eosin staining showed sparse collagen fibers, with Weigert staining diminished elastic tissue was observed. Scanning electron microscopy of the dermis showed individualized collagen fibers forming waved compact masses and not bundles. Transmission electron microscopy also showed sparse and loose collagen fibers with different diameters in cross sections.

Aim To determine the distance from the anatomical root apex to the major apical foramen and the position of the major foramen on the root apex. Methodology Crowns of 926 human teeth were sectioned at the cementum-enamel junction. Specimens were mounted on microscope slides for measurement parallel to the long axis of the teeth. The major foramen was identified as the largest-diameter opening at the root apex. A total of 1331 root specimens were evaluated using an optical stereomicroscope to an accuracy of 0.01 mm at 40 × (±10) magnification. The distance from the anatomical apex to the most apical point of the major foramen was measured, and its location (central, buccal, lingual, mesial and distal) was recorded. Results The mean distance between the major foramen and the anatomical root apex was 0.69 mm; the mean distance was larger in posterior teeth (0.82 mm) and smaller in anterior teeth (0.39 mm). A wide range of anatomical apex to major foramen distances were observed in all tooth groups: the greatest distance was in maxillary molars (0.95 mm) followed by mandibular pre-molars (0.87 mm) and mandibular molars (0.80 mm). The major foramen was at the tip of the root in 40% of teeth. The most frequent deviations of the foramen were to the buccal (20%) and distal (14%). Conclusion In this sample of teeth without apical resorption the distance between the major foramen and the anatomical root apex was always

Superficial white onychomycosis is characterized by opaque, friable, whitish superficial spots on the nail plate. We examined an affected halux nail of a 20-year-old male patient with scanning electron microscopy. The mycological examination isolated Trichophyton mentagrophytes. Abundant hyphae with the formation of arthrospores were found on the nail's surface, forming small fungal colonies. These findings showed the great capacity for dissemination of this form of onychomycosis.

Soybeans were hydrothermally treated at 2 different temperatures (40 °C and 60 °C) and for 4 different hydration times (4, 8, 12, and 16 h) to (i) increase the isoflavone aglycone content in a soy protein isolate and (ii) evaluate the changes in thermal, functional, and structural properties of a soy protein isolate as a function of hydrothermal treatment conditions. Our study is the first to evaluate aglycone content, extraction yield, β-glucosidase activity, differential scanning calorimetry, protein digestibility, scanning electron microscopy, water absorption capacity (WAC), foaming capacity (FC), and foaming stability of soy protein isolates prepared from hydrothermally treated soybeans. For aglycone enhancement and the extraction yield maintenance of soy protein isolates, the condition of 40 °C for 12 h was the best soybean hydrothermal treatment. The structural rearrangement of proteins that occurred with the hydrothermal treatment most likely promoted the capacity of proteins to bind to aglycone. Moreover, the structure shape and size of soy protein isolates verified by scanning electron microscopy appears to be related to the formation of hydrophobic surfaces and hydrophobic zones at 40 °C and 60 °C, respectively, affecting the protein digestibility, WAC, and FC of soy protein isolates.The aglycone content in the soy protein isolate can be improved with the hydrothermal treatment of soybeans. The temperature and time used for hydrothermal treatment must be selected in order to achieve a soy protein isolate with high aglycone content, extraction yield, and functionality. This technology is suitable for providing healthier soy protein isolates for food industry with improved functional and structural properties.

A 20-year-old man presented with pitted keratolysis (PK), demonstrating the typical crateriform pits on the hallux ( Fig. 1), ball of the foot, and on the interdigital surface. The involved keratin specimen was obtained by a shaving technique and processed for transmission (TEM) and scanning (SEM) electron microscopy. The patient, who wore only sports shoes, had hyperhidrosis plantaris. He was treated with topical erythromycin with good results. Bacterial cultures from the lesions showed Corynebacterium sp. Figure 1. Crateriform pits on the hallux Download figure to PowerPoint TEM demonstrated filamentous coccoid bacteria in the keratin ( Fig. 2), showing transversal septations. Tunnel-like spaces were built inside the horny layer, where the bacteria showed a hairy surface ( Fig. 3). Figure 2. Bacteria inside the stratum corneum (TEM, × 25,000) Download figure to PowerPoint Figure 3. Hairy surface from the causative agent (TEM, × 106,000) Download figure to PowerPoint Crateriform pits ( Fig. 4) and small incipient lesions ( Fig. 5) were easily identified on the plantar surface by SEM. On examination of the floor of these lesions, tunnel openings were found ( Fig. 6) in which bacteria could be observed. With higher magnification, the transversal septation, seen by TEM, was also shown with SEM ( Fig. 7). The normal appearing plantar skin was also examined, showing incipient bacterial colonies with tunnels without keratin loss ( Fig. 8). Figure 4. Pitted keratolysis with two incipient lesions on the right side (SEM, × 77.5) Download figure to PowerPoint Figure 5. Higher magnification of the incipient lesion from the right upper corner of Fig. 4 (SEM, × 310) Download figure to PowerPoint Figure 6. Tunnel openings in the floor of the pits (SEM, × 15,500) Download figure to PowerPoint Figure 7. Details of the bacteria; note the transversal septation (SEM, × 31,000) Download figure to PowerPoint Figure 8. The causative agent in tunnels in normal appearing skin (SEM, × 4650) Download figure to PowerPoint

A case of cutaneous phaeohyphomycosis caused by Cladosporium cladosporioides in a 50-year-old housewife is described. The clinical presentation was an ecthyma-like crusted lesion on the back of her left hand. Scanning electron microscopy of the culture showed the conidiophores and the limoniform or ellipsoidal conidia, with a slightly verrucous surface. The lesion was removed surgically, with no relapses after 6-month follow up.

A 22-year-old woman had an unusual congenital skin disorder in the form of ichthyosis characterized by innumerable keratotic plugs, resulting in a peculiar sievelike appearance. On histopathologic examination the epidermis showed a pronounced orthohyperkeratosis. The keratotic plugs seemed to emerge from the infundibular region of hair follicles. Immunohistochemical characterization revealed a normal keratin and filaggrin expression. Oral treatment with isotretinoin resulted in a reduction of the hyperkeratosis. Because we could not find any previously reported similar case, we propose the new name "ichthyosis cribriformis," which means "sievelike ichthyosis."

Pili canaliculi é alteração capilar rara, geralmente herdada de forma autossômica dominante, caracterizada por cabelos arrepiados, pertencendo ao espectro dos cabelos impenteáveis. Poucos estudos encontram ou explicitam sua variabilidade clínica. Uma família com 12 indivíduos afetados foi estudada, e o acometimento do couro cabeludo demonstrou grande variabilidade, desde cabelos arrepiados, difíceis de pentear, hipotricose leve ou intensa, até atriquia adquirida. O exame de microscopia óptica de cortes transversais dos cabelos, a estereomicroscopia e a microscopia eletrônica de varredura confirmaram o diagnóstico, demonstrando canais na superfície dos cabelos.

A produção de mudas de frutíferas perenes está baseada na multiplicação vegetativa por manter as características da planta de origem. No pessegueiro, as mudas são obtidas por enxertia de gema ativa. Como não existem relatos de utilização da alporquia na multiplicação do pessegueiro, este trabalho teve como objetivo avaliar sua eficiência na propagação desta frutífera. O experimento foi realizado na Embrapa Clima Temperado, Pelotas-RS, nos meses de junho a setembro de 2001 com as cultivares Chirua e Maciel. A alporquia foi realizada em quatro épocas. As plantas, na época I (06-06), apresentavam-se dormentes. Nas demais épocas, apresentavam flores no estádio de balão ou abertas (épocas II e III - 26-06 e 16-07), enquanto, na época IV (08-08), possuíam brotações e frutos em desenvolvimento. Foi retirado um anel entre 1,0 e 1,5 centímetro de largura da casca de cada ramo com um canivete de enxertia. Em cada ferimento, foram colocadas quatro gotas do ácido indolbutírico (3000 mg.L-1). Houve 100% de enraizamento. Em todos os ramos das duas cultivares, ocorreu a formação de raízes vigorosas e em grande número. Nas alporquias realizadas na época I, as raízes apresentaram maior ramificação. Os resultados foram satisfatórios, indicando que o método pode ser utilizado com sucesso no pessegueiro, principalmente em trabalhos de pesquisa que necessitem de um pequeno número de plantas idênticas geneticamente. The propagation of fruit species is based on vegetative multiplication in order to maintain the characteristics of the original plant. The technique of air layering has been used in other species, however there is no report of its use in peaches trees. This work aimed to develop a methodology by using this technique in this species. The experiment took place in the period of June to September, 2001 at Embrapa - Clima Temperado, Pelotas, RS. The air layering technique was tested in four different periods using two cultivars: Chirua and Maciel. The plants used in the period I (06/06) were dormant. In all the order periods, the plants had flower buds, either at balloon stage or opened (periods II and III - 06/26 and 07/16), while in the period IV (08/08) they were already fruiting. The results indicated that this technique can be used in peach.

A 12-year-old boy with difficulty in wound healing and abnormal scars since early childhood was examined. Light microscopy showed loose and disperse dermal collagen with rare bundles, and fibroblasts show an irregular morphology. The fibrous sheath of hair presented a normal parallel distribution of the collagen fibers with normal spindle-shaped fibroblasts. Transmission electron microscopy also found disorganized collagen fibers, which were seen in a same field in longitudinal and cross sections. With high magnifications, an amorphous substance was seen near to loose collagen fibers, which showed variable diameters in cross sections. Scanning electron microscopy of the dermis showed disorganized collagen fibers and with higher magnification, important collagen disarrangement was observed with isolated and crossed-over fibers.

O presente trabalho avaliou a anatomia, o teor de clorofila e as respostas fotossintéticas em diferentes níveis de radiação solar em folhas de videiras cultivadas sob cobertura plástica. o experimento foi realizado em vinhedo com a cultivar Moscato Giallo, com e sem cobertura plástica. A avaliação da anatomia foliar foi realizada em 10 plantas, nas áreas coberta e descoberta. No estádio fenológico de mudança de cor das bagas, em cada área, foram coletadas seis folhas expostas à radiação solar e seis sombreadas, as quais foram fixadas e micrografadas (espessuras das epidermes adaxiais e abaxiais e dos parênquimas paliçádicos e lacunosos). O teor de clorofila e o potencial fotossintético foram avaliados na mudança de cor das bagas e após a colheita. A diminuição da radiação solar pela cobertura plástica propicia um incremento da espessura do parênquima paliçádico em folhas expostas e sombreadas. As epidermes adaxiais e abaxiais e o parênquima lacunoso não variam suas espessuras em função da diminuição de radiação solar. O teor de clorofila aumenta nas folhas das plantas cultivadas sob cobertura plástica. o potencial fotossintético das videiras não é afetado pela restrição de radiação solar da cobertura plástica devido à modificação na anatomia das folhas. The present study evaluated the anatomy, chlorophyll content and photosynthetic potential of grapevine leaves grown under plastic cover. The experiment was carried out in vineyards of moscato Giallo cultivar covered and uncovered with plastic. A block design with 10 selected plants was used for each area (covered and uncovered). Twelve leaves (six of them fully exposed to solar radiation and six grown under shaded conditions) were collected from each area and were fixed and analyzed microscopically (thickness of the adaxial and abaxial epidermis and of the palisade and spongy parenchymas). Chlorophyll content and photosynthetic potential were determined in the vineyard at veraison and after harvest. Plastic covering increased the thickness of the palisade parenchyma in exposed and shaded leaves due to solar radiation restriction. however, the leaves from the covered vineyard did not have the same response to the restriction of solar radiation, as observed in the uncovered vineyard. The thickness of the adaxial and abaxial epidermis and of the spongy parenchyma did not vary due to solar radiation restriction. Chlorophyll content increased in the leaves of covered plants. The photosynthetic potential of the vines is not affected by solar radiation restriction imposed by plastic cover due to anatomical modification in leaves.

Pasini's albopapuloid epidermolysis bullosa is a very rare subtype of generalized dystrophic dominant epidermolyis bullosa. A 30 year-old white female patient presented since her childhood disseminated small blisters and papules. Light microscopy of a blister showed dermal-epidermal cleavage; moreover, focal areas of dermal-epidermal splitting were also observed. Transmission electron microscopy also identified focal areas of cleavage, which were seen below the lamina densa. It is important to recognize this condition as a variant of epidermolysis bullosa, since the most important cutaneous findings are generalized papules and not blisters and erosions as in other forms of epidermolysis bullosa. A epidermólise bolhosa albo-papulóide de Pasini é uma variante rara da forma generalizada de epidermólise bolhosa distrófica dominante. Uma paciente de 30 anos apresenta desde a infância pápulas e bolhas disseminadas. A microscopia óptica de uma bolha demonstrou clivagem dermo-epidérmica; além disso áreas focais de desprendimento dermo-epidérmico foram encontradas. A microscopia eletrônica de transmissão identificou a clivagem abaixo da lâmina densa. É importante que se reconheça essa variante de epidermólise bolhosa, já que o aspecto clínico predominante são pápulas disseminadas e não bolhas como nas outras formas de epidermólise bolhosa.

Die papulose akantholytische Dyskeratose ist eine sehr seltene Dermatose, die histologisch eine suprabasale Spaltung mit akantholytischen und dyskeratotischen Zellen zeigt, was dem klassischem Bild des Morbus Darier entspricht, jedoch ist sie erworben und ohne genetische Grundlage. Eine 40-jahrige Patientin zeigte ca. 200 kleine keratotische Papeln an beiden Unterschenkeln, deren histologische Untersuchung in das Bild der Keratosis follicularis hineinpasste. Die elektronenmikroskopische Untersuchung zeigte eine verminderte Desmosomenzahl und eine perinukleare Verteilung der Tonofilamente. Die Lasionen sprachen auf Kryotherapie mit offenem Verfahren gut an.

A 12-year-old boy with difficulty in wound healing and scars of unusual appearance was examined. Thin, shiny and protruding skin, characterizing pseudotumoral lesions, was observed on his knees and elbows. Loose joints and increased skin elasticity were also observed. Light microscopy showed rare collagen bundles and loosely dispersed collagen fibers. Irregularly distributed elastic tissue was observed, and transmission electron microscopy revealed disorganized collagen fibers. In cross sections under high magnifications, fibers of varying diameters could be seen, as well as an irregular fiber outline. Scanning electron microscopy of the dermis showed disorganized collagen fibers, which were rarely arranged in bundles. Isolated and crossed-over fibers were also found

O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar a colonização de Cryptosporiopsis perennans na epiderme de maçãs e a eficiência da aplicação de água aquecida e radiação UV-C no controle desse patógeno. Em maçãs submetidas à inoculação de C. perennans, a colonização de lenticelas e das áreas adjacentes pelo patógeno foi avaliada por microscopia eletrônica de varredura. A sensibilidade dos conídios de C. perennans aos tratamentos foi avaliada em suspensão aquosa, às temperaturas de 28, 45, 50 e 55ºC, por 15 e 30 s, e às doses de radiação UV-C de 0,018, 0,037, 0,075, 0,150, 0,375, 0,750, 1,500 e 3,000 kJ m-2. Em maçãs submetidas à inoculação de C. perennans, foram avaliados os efeitos de 0,375, 0,750 e 1,500 kJ m-2 de radiação UV-C e da aspersão de água aquecida à 50ºC, por 15 e 30 s no controle do patógeno. O fungo produziu abundante micélio e conídios nas lenticelas e nas áreas adjacentes, na epiderme das maçãs. A água aquecida a 50ºC por 15 s e à dose de radiação de UV-C de 0,750 kJ m-2 reduzem em mais de 99% a sobrevivência de conídios. A aspersão de água aquecida a 50ºC por 15 s e à dose de radiação de UV-C de 0,375 kJ m-2, controlam C. perennans em maçãs.

O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar o potencial da raça delta avirulenta do fungo Colletotrichum lindemuthianum, como protetora contra raças virulentas deste fungo e quanto à capacidade de induzir resistência sistêmica em feijoeiro-comum (Phaseolus vulgaris). Quatro cultivares de feijoeiro foram avaliadas quanto às alterações nas atividades de beta 1,3 glucanase e quitinase, em dois estádios de desenvolvimento (V2 e R6), três dias após a aplicação de suspensão de esporos de C. lindemuthianum raça delta avirulenta, em comparação com aplicações de água e ácido salicílico. As plantas foram, então, infectadas com o patótipo virulento 33/95 de C. lindemuthianum em suspensão e, depois de cinco dias, foram reavaliadas quanto à atividade das enzimas. Observaram-se acréscimos significativos nas atividades da beta 1,3 glucanase e quitinase, após inoculação do fungo indutivo, nas duas avaliações, nos dois estádios de desenvolvimento. As atividades da beta 1,3 glucanase e da quitinase variaram entre as cultivares e entre os estádios de desenvolvimento das plantas. A correlação entre o índice de severidade da doença e a atividade das enzimas foi altamente significativa. O uso de C. lindemuthianum raça delta avirulenta diminuiu a severidade da doença e pode ter potencial para controlar a antracnose do feijoeiro. The objectives of this work were to evaluate the potential of the avirulent delta race of Colletotrichum lindemuthianum as a protector against virulent races of this fungus and induce systemic resistance to anthracnose in common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris). Four common bean cultivars were evaluated for changes in the activities of beta-1,3-glucanase and chitinase at two common bean developmental stages, V2 and R6, three days after the infection with delta race of C. lindemuthianum, in comparison with control applications of water and salicylic acid. The plants were then infected with a spore suspension of 33/95, a virulent C. lindemuthianum patotype and reevaluated five days later for the enzyme activities. Significant increases in the activities of both beta-1,3-glucanase and chitinase were observed after inoculation of inductive fungus at the two evaluation periods, at both plant development stages. The activities of both beta-1,3-glucanase and chitinase varied among cultivars and among plant development stages. A significant correlation was observed between the disease severity and the enzyme activity. The avirulent delta race of C. lindemuthianum reduced the severity of anthracnose on common bean and may have the potential to control the disease.

OBJECTIVE: To examine the epidermis in induced phytophotodermatitis using transmission electron microscopy in order to detect histologic changes even before lesions are visible by light microscopy. INTRODUCTION: In the first six hours after the experimental induction of phytophotodermatitis, no changes are detectable by light microscopy. Only after 24 hours can keratinocyte necrosis and epidermal vacuolization be detected histologically, and blisters form by 48 hours. METHODS: The dorsum of four adult rats (Rattus norvegicus) was manually epilated. After painting the right half of the rat with the peel juice of Tahiti lemon, they were exposed to sunlight for eight minutes under general anesthesia. The left side was used as the control and exposed to sunlight only. Biopsies were performed immediately after photoinduction and one and two hours later, and the tissue was analyzed by transmission electron microscopy. RESULTS: No histological changes were seen on the control side. Immediately after induction, vacuolization in keratinocytes was observed. After one hour, desmosomal changes were also observed in addition to vacuolization. Keratin filaments were not attached to the desmosomal plaque. Free desmosomes and membrane ruptures were also seen. At two hours after induction, similar changes were found, and granular degeneration of keratin was also observed. DISCUSSION: The interaction of sunlight and psoralens generates a photoproduct that damages keratinocyte proteins, leading to keratinocyte necrosis and blister formation. CONCLUSIONS: Transmission electron microscopy can detect vacuolization, lesions of the membrane, and desmosomes in the first two hours after experimental induction of phytophotodermatitis.

Cutis laxa is a rare condition characterized by diminished elastic tissue. We report the histological changes from a 22-year-old male patient, who presented since 4 years hanging and inelastic facial skin, giving him an older appearance. The palpebral, preauricular and submandibular skin obtained after a facelift were examined. Conventional light microscopy with hematoxylin-eosin staining showed perivascular lymphocytic infiltrates and crossed-over collagen fibers. With Weigert staining, a lessening of elastic fibers with fragmentation, shortening and clumping was seen. The oxytalanic fibers in the papillary dermis were also affected, ranging from absence or reduction to flattening with clumping of the fibers, giving an irregular contour to the basal membrane zone. These findings were more intense in the palpebral skin. Transmission electronic microscopy showed reduction of the elastic fibers, a granular degeneration of the elastic tissue was found and collagen fibers were normal. Similar to light microscopy, at the ultrastructural level, the basal membrane has an irregular contour.

A stereomicroscope (STM) is an optical device with two independent oculars that: (1) does not invert the image; and (2) allows us to examine the surface in natura with a magnification up to 80 times. It is widely used in criminal justice, geology, and botanic research. Hair shaft anomalies have, as gold standard for diagnosis, scanning electron microscopy (SEM), which shows surface changes, if necessary with very high magnifications. Because of its high costs, SEM is not always available. We compared the possibility of STM to establish the diagnosis of hair shaft changes with SEM. For that we examined the same hairs with the two techniques. After being photographed under STM, they were set in a stub, metalized, and examined with SEM. We used a hair of pili canaliculi, (Fig 1, A), one hair with two nodules of trichorrhexis nodosa (Fig 1, B), one with a lesion of piedra alba (Fig 1, C ), and a hair with torsion (Fig 1, D). In all of them the typical alterations could be seen by STM and SEM. Although very high magnifications are possible only with SEM, STM can easily identify hair changes, a simple technique that can be used to diagnose hair diseases.

A estrutura mais superficial da epiderme dos frutos é constituída por fina camada de cera, responsável por mecanismos de proteção, principalmente relacionados à evapotranspiração e ao ataque de patógenos. A visualização de cera por microscopia eletrônica de varredura apresenta dificuldades no processamento da amostra, pois os métodos rotineiramente utilizados ocasionam sérios danos a esta camada ou, simplesmente, provocam sua eliminação devido ao processo de solubilização causado pelos reagentes utilizados. Alguns autores têm utilizado temperaturas baixas (-90ºC) para o processamento de amostras. No Brasil, tentativas de observação de cera em maçãs, utilizando a microscopia eletrônica de varredura, têm sido realizadas; entretanto, os resultados não foram satisfatórios. No Laboratório de Microscopia Eletrônica da Embrapa Clima Temperado, foi adaptado um método simples e que tem apresentado bons resultados. Para este experimento, foram retiradas pequenas porções da casca de maçãs da região equatorial dos frutos. As amostras foram fixadas em lâminas histológicas, utilizando fita adesiva nas extremidades. Posteriormente, foram colocadas em dessecador contendo sílica gel, para que ocorresse a desidratação. Após 72 horas, foram retirados fragmentos para fixação em stubs e metalização com ouro. Foi usado um microscópio eletrônico ZEISS (DSM-940A), regulado à distância de trabalho de 15mm, voltagem de aceleração de 10 kV e ampliação de 3.000 X. As imagens obtidas permitiram avaliar a interferência dos fatores ambientais utilizados no processo de frigoconservação de maçãs. The fruit epidermis is covered by a thin layer of wax which gives protection to the fruit, mainly against water loss and pathogenic organisms. Several studies using scanning electron microscope have been developed to study that wax. The wax layer visualization through the scanning microscope is difficult due to some problems of sample preparation. The usual procedures cause serious damages to the wax layer or even eliminate it because of its solubilization by some of the reagents. Several researchers have kept the samples at very low temperature (-90ºC) during the preparation. Wax observations in Brazil by using electronic scanning microscope have been performed, however in some of them results were not consistent. A relatively simple procedure at the Laboratory of Electron Microscopy at Embrapa Temperate Climate has been tried to overcome such difficulties. Such procedure consists of collecting a small piece of the fruit epidermis (1cm²) taken from the equatorial part of the apples. After sampling it the piece of epidermis is placed on a glass slide hold by the extremes with a sticky tape. The sample on glass slide is kept for 72 hours into a dessicator containing drierite for the sample dehydration. Then, small pieces of the sample (2 mm²) were taken and hold on stubs followed by metalization in gold. Following that, the sample is observed using a Zeiss (DSM - 940A) electronic microscope at a working distance of 15 mm and acceleration voltage of 10 KV. The obtained images made possible to evaluate the action of some experimental treatments which have been used on apples during cold storage.