Employing optical microscopy technique to determine the tissue action of Hamamelis virginiana L. (Hamamelidaceae), Maytenus ilicifolia Mart. ex Reissek (Celastraceae) and Casearia sylvestris Sw. (Salicaceae) tinctures on skin-fixed histological sections of Wistar rats

Objective: In this study, we aimed to determine the action of the tinctures of Hamamelis virginiana, Maytenus ilicifolia, and Casearia sylvestris on tissues. For this, we investigated the histological sections of fixed skin tissue of Wistar rats for the changes in collagen and elastic fibers, epithelial cells, conjunctive cells, epidermal attachments, pigments, and granules using the optical microscopy technique. Since in the literature and published articles, the use of in vivo models, such as Wistar rats, is predominant to evaluate the healing action of herbal medicines. Methods: The tinctures of Hamamelis virginiana, Maytenus ilicifolia, and Casearia sylvestris, and ethanol 70% (blank) were used. The tinctures were obtained at 10% (w/v) through percolation using 70% ethanol (v/v) as the extraction liquid. This study was conducted in duplicate for each tincture and different incubation times (4, 24, and 48 h) at 37 °C in an oven. The slides used in this study (Wistar rat skin) were previously processed at the histology laboratory since the waste material was donated to conduct this experiment. The Research Ethics Committee approved the use of animals of the Life Sciences Center of the Pontifical Catholic University of Campinas (PUC-CAMPINAS) under the protocol approval number 367/08. Before initiating the staining process, the slides were removed from the oven, and the tincture deposited on the slides was removed. Weigert staining was performed subsequently. For semi-quantitative analysis, the histological sections were carefully observed, and the number of collagen and elastic fibers was evaluated based on the following scale: (+) normal fiber presence, (−) slight decrease, (− −) moderate decrease, and (− − −) intense decrease. The images were digitally captured to obtain the results using a photomicroscope. Results: The degradation of collagen fibers was best evidenced upon using Hamamelis virginiana tincture, which is concordant with the existing reports in the literature on its healing action via the precipitation of dermal proteins. Maytenus ilicifolia and Casearia sylvestris tinctures exhibited low proteolytic capacity as they only caused degradation of elastic fibers that are more delicate and very different from collagen in their constitution. Therefore, the application of the latter two as healing agents (which acts through precipitating proteins) is limited. Conclusions: This experimental histological model using the optical microscopy technique exhibits the advantage of agility and high efficiency as a simple and powerful approach.

Particle size and morphological characterization of cosmetic emulsified systems by Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT)

ABSTRACT The physicochemical attributes of emulsified systems are influenced by the characteristics of their internal phase droplets (concentration, size and morphology), which can be modified not only by the formulation components, but also by the analytical methodology employed. Thus, the aim of this work involved the physicochemical characterization of cosmetic emulsions obtained from different surfactants, as well as the introduction of the optical coherence tomography (OCT) as the analytical technique employed for the morphological characterization and particle size determination of the formulations. Three emulsions were prepared, differing at the type and concentration of the surfactant used, and their droplet sizes were evaluated through optical microscopy, laser diffraction and OCT. The microscopic analysis and the laser diffraction techniques provided an average particle size minor than 6.0 µm, not detected by the OCT technique, which could identify only bigger particles of the emulsified systems' internal phase. The results testify that OCT was suitable for the morphological characterization of cosmetic emulsions; however, the technique needs to be improved to ensure a better sensitivity in the analysis of smaller particles.

RESUMO Os atributos físico-químicos de sistemas emulsionados são influenciados pelas características de suas gotículas de fase interna (concentração, tamanho e morfologia), as quais podem ser modificadas não apenas pelos componentes da formulação, mas também pela metodologia analítica empregada. Desta forma, o objetivo deste trabalho envolveu a caracterização físico-química de emulsões cosméticas obtidas a partir de diferentes tensoativos, bem como a introdução da tomografia de coerência óptica (OCT) como a técnica analítica utilizada para a caracterização morfológica e determinação do tamanho de partícula das formulações. Três emulsões foram preparadas, diferindo no tipo e concentração do tensoativo empregado, e seus tamanhos de gotícula foram avaliados por meio das técnicas de microscopia óptica, difração a laser e OCT. As técnicas de microscopia óptica e difração a laser forneceram tamanhos de partícula médios menores de 6.0 µm, não detectados pela técnica de OCT, que permitiu apenas a identificação de partículas maiores pertencentes à fase interna dos sistemas emulsionados. Os resultados reforçam a introdução da OCT como metodologia promissora para a caracterização morfológica de emulsões cosméticas; no entanto, a técnica requer aprimoramento para garantir maior sensibilidade na análise de partículas de menor tamanho.

TOPOGRAPHICAL AND STRUCTURAL EVALUATION OF DIATHERMY PENCILS EMPLOYED ON AESTHETIC SURGERY SUBJECTED TO FOUR REPROCESSING CYCLES USING THE EIA/CES "QUALY" APPROACH / EVALUACIÓN TOPOGRÁFICA Y ESTRUCTURAL DE LÁPICES DE DIATERMIA EMPLEADAS EN CIRUGÍA ESTÉTICA, SOMETIDOS A CUATRO CICLOS DE REPROCESADO UTILIZANDO EL ENFOQUE DE EIA/CES "QUALY" / AVALIAÇÃO TOPOGRÁFICA E ESTRUTURAL DE LÁPIS DE DIATERMIA USADOS EM CIRURGIA COSMÉTICA SOFRIDO QUATRO CICLOS DE REPROCESSAMENTO USANDO A ABORDAGEM DE EIA/CES "QUALY"

Diathermy pencils are one of the most employed medical devices around the world, this condition increases its probability to be reprocessing in patients; diathermy pencil has different parts (cord, tip, handgrip, current cables), which are composed of different kind of materials. In order to identify the medical device behavior is necessary to characterize all of those materials in the instrument. An exploration to determinate topographic surface defects and structural movements in each material was performed, with the intention of evaluated the reuse cycles effects on the medical device. The experiment was performing using the EIA/CES "QUALY" approach [1]. The study concludes that four reprocessing cycles induce some changes that are not statistically representative. Surface defects were detected in the cord; also an aggressive superficial waste after four reprocessing cycles in the tip was observed. We do not observe structural changes in the polymeric chain of the cord.

Los lápices diatermia son uno de los dispositivos médicos más empleados en todo el mundo, condición que aumenta su probabilidad de ser reprocesados con pacientes. El lápiz diatermia tiene diferentes partes (cable, punta, empuñadura, cables de corriente), que están compuestas de diferentes tipos de materiales. Con el fin de identificar el comportamiento de dispositivos médicos es necesario caracterizar todos esos materiales en el instrumento. Se efectuó una exploración de los defectos en la superficie topográfica y determinados movimientos estructurales en cada material, con el propósito de evaluar los efectos de los ciclos de reutilización sobre el dispositivo médico. El experimento se realizó mediante el enfoque "QUALY" EIA/CES [1]. El estudio concluye que cuatro ciclos de reprocesado implican algunos cambios que no son estadísticamente representativos. Se detectaron defectos en la superficie del cable; igualmente, se observó un residuo superficial agresivo después de cuatro ciclos de reprocesamiento en la punta. No se observaron cambios estructurales en la cadena polimérica de la cuerda.

Os lápis de diatermia são um dos dispositivos mais utilizados em todo o mundo médico, uma condição que aumenta a sua chance de ser reprocessados com os pacientes. O lápis de diatermia tem diferentes partes (cabo, ponta, aderência, linhas de energia), que são compostas de materiais diferentes. A fim de identificar o comportamento de dispositivos médicos é necessário caracterizar todos tais materiais no instrumento. Uma varredura de defeitos foi realizado na superfície topográfica e certos movimentos estruturais em cada material, com o objetivo de avaliar os efeitos dos ciclos de reutilização no dispositivo médico. O experimento foi realizado utilizando o EIA/CES [1] abordagem "QUALY". O estudo conclui que quatro ciclos de reprocessamento envolvem algumas mudanças que não são estatisticamente representativa. Os defeitos foram detectados na superfície do cabo; do mesmo modo, um resíduo de superfície agressivo foi observada após quatro ciclos na ponta reprocessamento. Não foram observadas alterações estruturais na cadeia do polímero da corda.

Detailed morphological description of Habronema clarki Foster & Chitwood, 1937, a nematode parasite of capybaras Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris (Linnaeus, 1766) in Brazil / Descrição morfológica detalhada de Habronema clarki Foster & Chitwood, 1937, um nematódeo parasita de capivaras Hydrochoerus hydrochaeris (Linnaeus, 1766) no Brasil

The genus Habronema has four valid species, of which only two are properly known. The present study aimed to describe in detail the morphology of Habronema clarki through optical and scanning electron microscopy analyses. Our results showed that the labial morphology of this parasite is closer to H. muscae than to H. microstoma. Even so, the characteristic pseudolabia and the slightly convex border of the dorsal and ventral lips are sufficient to distinguish these nematodes. Additional morphological data are presented, thus contributing to the knowledge on this little known nematode. In addition, this study provides new locality records for this species.

O gênero Habronema tem quatro espécies válidas, das quais apenas duas são propriamente conhecidas. O presente estudo visa descrever em detalhes a morfologia de Habronema clarki por meio de microscopia eletrônica de varredura e de luz. Os resultados demonstram que a morfologia labial do parasita é mais próxima de H. muscae que de H. microstoma. Ainda assim, os pseudolábios característicos e a borda discretamente convexa dos lábios dorsal e ventral são suficientes para se diferenciar esses nematódeos. Dados morfológicos adicionais são apresentados, contribuindo ao conhecimento deste nematódeo pouco conhecido. Em adição, este estudo representa um novo registro de localidade para a espécie.

A histological assessment of the cell death induced by haloperidol on prefrontal cortex / Una evaluación histológica de la muerte celular inducida por haloperidol en la corteza prefrontal

Neuroleptic drugs such as haloperidol has side effects on extrapyramidal pathways. Tardive Dyskinesia is the most important complication. The most characteristic feature of this Tardive Dyskinesia is involuntary movements of mouth and face. In regard to this problem, the induction of gliosis and cell death in the nervous tissue are considered. In this study, adult Sprague-Dawley rats were used as experimental models. Rats were divided into control and experimental groups. The rats were kept in the animal house under standard conditions during experiments. The control rats were intraperitoneally treated with normal saline for 6 days. The experimental samples were treated for the same time with 2, 5 and 10 mg haloperidol. After the trial period, the rats were killed following general anesthesia and their brains were removed after perfusion with a 4 percent formalin solution. Then, 1 mm cuts of the brains were obtained. After that, 5 um tissue sections were prepared and stained with hematoxylin and eosin. The stained sections were examined by optical microscopy. The results showed that the short-term use of haloperidol does not lead to gliosis process in the rat cerebral cortex. The short-term use of 10 mg haloperidol results in cell death in the rat cerebral cortex. Cell death was not observed in the control group and the groups that had received 2 mg and 5 mg doses of haloperidol. According to previous studies, it can be concluded that the gliosis process is induced in the cerebral cortex only following the long-term use of haloperidol. It is considered as a secondary cause of the neuroleptic drugs side effects. The primary cause of these side effects is the induction of cell death in neurons.

Los fármacos neurolépticos como el haloperidol tiene efectos secundarios sobre las vías extrapiramidales. La discinesia tardía es la complicación más importante. El rasgo más característico de esta discinesia tardía son movimientos involuntarios de la boca y cara. En lo que respecta a este problema, se consideran la inducción de gliosis y muerte celular en el tejido nervioso. En este estudio, fueron utilizados ratas Sprague - Dawley adultas como modelos experimentales. Las ratas se dividieron en grupos control y experimentales, y se mantuvieron en condiciones estándar durante los experimentos. Las ratas control fueron tratadas por vía intraperitoneal con solución salina normal durante 6 días, y las experimentales durante el mismo tiempo con 2 , 5 y 10 mg de haloperidol. Luego, las ratas se sacrificaron y sus cerebros se extrajeron después de la perfusión con una solución de formalina al 4 por ciento, obteniendo cortes de 1 mm de los cerebros. Se prepararon y se tiñeron con hematoxilina y eosina en secciones de tejido de 5 micras, y se examinaron por microscopía óptica. Se observó que el uso a corto plazo del haloperidol no conduce a proceso de gliosis en la corteza cerebral de rata. El uso a corto plazo de 10 mg de haloperidol produjo muerte celular en la corteza cerebral de rata. La muerte celular no se observó en el grupo control ni en los grupos que habían recibido 2 y 5 mg de haloperidol. De acuerdo con estudios anteriores, se concluye que el proceso de gliosis se induce en la corteza cerebral sólo tras el uso a largo plazo de exposición al haloperidol. Se considera como una causa secundaria de los efectos adversos de los fármacos neurolépticos. La principal causa de estos efectos secundarios, es la inducción de muerte celular en neuronas.

Fracture process characterization of fiber-reinforced dental composites evaluated by optical coherence tomography, SEM and optical microscopy

This study used optical coherence tomography (OCT) compared to scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and optical microscopy (OM) to evaluate qualitatively crack propagation and final fracture in restorative composite materials - Filtek Z250 and Filtek Z350 (3M ESPE) - with fiber reinforcement after cyclic loading. Samples were made using a split mold. Initially, 3-point bending tests were performed to determine the maximum force and tension at the fracture moment using samples without fiber reinforcement. Then, mechanical cycling tests were performed using samples with glass fiber embedded internally. The failures were analyzed using the 3 methods described before. OCT permitted good characterization of internal crack propagation of the dental composites, which, however, could not be visualized by either SEM or OM. OCT was proven to be laboratory research tool that is easy to use, does not require any specific preparation of the samples, and is less expensive than SEM.

Hair fiber characteristics and methods to evaluate hair physical and mechanical properties / Características da fibra do cabelo e métodos para avaliar o cabelo propriedades físicas e mecânicas

The hair thread is a natural fiber formed by keratin, a protein containing high concentration of sulfur coming from the amino acid cystine. The main physical proprieties of the hair depend mostly on its geometry; the physical and mechanical properties of hair involve characteristics to improve: elasticity, smoothness, volume, shine, and softness due to both the significant adherence of the cuticle scales and the movement control (malleability), as well as the easiness of combing, since they reduce the fibers static electricity. The evaluation of these effects on hair may be carried out by several methods, as: optical and electron microscopy, mechanical resistance measuring, shine evaluation and optical coherence tomography (OCT).

O cabelo é uma fibra natural formada por queratina, uma proteína composta por teor elevado de enxofre proveniente da cistina. As propriedades principais do cabelo dependem de sua geometria, estrutura física. Características físicas e mecânicas das fibras capilares envolvem propriedades que melhoram: elasticidade, maciez, volume, maleabilidade, facilidade para o ato de pentear e brilho. A avaliação de tais propriedades do cabelo pode ser obtida por métodos diversos, como: microscopia óptica e eletrônica, mensuração da resistência mecânica, determinação do brilho e tomografia por coerência óptica (OCT).

Embryonic development of Girardia tigrina (Girard, 1850) (Platyhelminthes, Tricladida, Paludicola) / Desenvolvimento embrionário de Girardia tigrina (Girard, 1850) (Platyhelminthes, Tricladida, Paludicola)

The embryonic development of freshwater triclads is mainly known from studies of species of Dendrocoelum, Planaria, Polycelis, and, more recently, Schmidtea. The present study characterizes the development of Girardia tigrina (Girard, 1850) by means of optical microcopy using glycol methacrylate semi-thin sections. 94 cocoons were collected in the period from laying to hatching, with intervals of up to twenty-four hours. The sequence of morphological changes occurring in the embryo permitted the identification of nine embryonic stages. At the time of cocoon laying, numerous embryos were dispersed among many yolk cells, with a rigid capsule covering the entire cocoon. In the first stage (approx. up to 6 hours after cocoon laying), yolk cells and embryonic cells showed random distribution. Stage II (between 12 and 24 hours after cocoon laying) is characterized by aggregates of blastomeres, which later aggregate forming an enteroblastula. Approximately 2 days after cocoon laying (stage III), formation of the embryonic epidermis and embryonic digestive system took place, the latter degenerating during the subsequent stage. Stage V (until the fourth day) is characterized by the formation of the definitive epidermis. Between 4 and 6 days after laying, organogenesis of the definitive inner organs starts (stage VI). Approximately 14 days after laying (stage IX), formation of the nervous system is completed. At this stage, the embryo shows similar characteristics to those of newly hatched juveniles. The hatching of Girardia tigrina occurs in the period between twelve to twenty-two days after cocoon laying.

O desenvolvimento embrionário dos tricladidos é conhecido, fundamentalmente, por estudos realizados em espécies de Dendrocoelum, Planaria, Polycelis e, mais recentemente, Schmidtea. O presente estudo descreve o desenvolvimento embrionário de Girardia tigrina (Girard, 1850), a partir de análises realizadas em cortes histológicos seriados e semifinos de glicol-metacrilato, ao microscópio óptico. Noventa e quatro casulos foram coletados no período entre a postura e a eclosão, em intervalos de até vinte e quatro horas. A seqüência das modificações morfológicas no embrião permitiu a identificação de nove estágios embrionários. Na postura dos casulos, envoltos por uma cápsula rígida, observam-se numerosos embriões dispersos entre grande quantidade de células vitelinas. No estágio I (aproximadamente até 6 horas após a postura), as células vitelinas e as embrionárias mostram uma distribuição aleatória. O estágio II (entre 12 e 24 horas após a postura) caracteriza-se pela formação de agrupamentos de blastômeros, os quais posteriormente formam uma enteroblástula. Aproximadamente dois dias após a postura (estágio III), ocorre a formação da epiderme e do sistema digestivo embrionário, sendo que este último degenera no estágio seguinte. O estágio V (até o quarto dia após a postura) caracteriza-se pela formação da epiderme definitiva. Entre o quarto e o sexto dia posteriores à postura, começa a organogênese dos órgãos internos definitivos (estágio VI). Aproximadamente catorze dias após a postura (estágio IX), completa-se a formação do sistema nervoso. Neste estágio, o embrião já apresenta características similares aos espécimes juvenis. A eclosão de Girardia tigrina ocorre entre doze e vinte e dois dias após a postura dos casulos.

Preparación y crracterización de telas de carbó activado. influencia del materrial precursor de algoóón / Preparaton and ccharacterization of activated carbon infuence of the prrecursor of cotton / Preparação e caaacterização de tecidos de carvão ativado. a influência do material precursor do algoãão

Se preparan dos telas de carbón activado a partir de la activación química de textiles de algodón. La preparación de los materiales se lleva a cabo por medio de la impregnación de éstos en una solución 0,10 M de H3PO4 , seguida de una carbonización en atmósfera de dióxido de carbono hasta una temperatura final de 825°C. Se presentan los análisis termogravimétricos de las telas de partida que permiten ajustar las condiciones experimentales de carbonización así como los porcentajes de contracción y rendimiento de los materiales preparados, que se encuentran entre un 50% y 20% respectivamente. Las telas de carbón activado preparadas presentan áreas superficiales de 796 m² g-1 y 951 m² g-1 así como volúmenes de microporo de 0,416 cm³ g-1 y 0,528 cm³ g-1 . Un estudio calorimétrico de los sólidos preparados permite estimar que las entalpías de inmersión en tetracloruro de carbono son -4,66 J g-1 y -5,05 J g-1 respectivamente. Los resultados de un análisis por microscopia óptica de las telas preparadas también son presentados.

The present work reports the results of the preparation of two activated carbon cloths by chemical activation of cotton based fabrics. The preparation of the materials was achieved by its impregnation into a solution 0.10 M of H3 PO4 , followed by carbonisation in carbon dioxide atmosphere up to 825ºC . Thermal analysis of the precursor fabrics that allow to adjust the experimental conditions of carbonization are presented, as well as the contraction percentages and yield of the prepared materials that are respectively between 50% and 20% The activated carbon cloths prepared exhibit a superficial area of 796 m² .g-1 and 951 m² .g-1 , and micropore volume of 0.416 cm³ g-1 y 0.528 cm³ g-1 . A calorimetric study of the prepared solids allows to estimate that the immersion enthalpies in carbon tetrachloride are - 4.66 J g-1 and -5.05 J g-1 respectively. The optical microscopy results of the prepared cloths also are presented.

Nós relatamos os resultados da preparação de dois tecidos de carvões ativados pela ativação química da teia baseadas em algodão. A preparação dos materiais foi conseguida pela sua impregnação em uma solução 0.10 M de H3 PO4 , seguida pelo carbonização na atmosfera de dióxido de carbono até uma temperatura de análise de 825ºC . Análise térmica dos tecidos do precursor que reservam para ajustar as condições experimentais do carbonização são apresentadas, assim como as porcentagens da contração e o rendimento dos materiais preparados que estão entre 50% e 20% respectivamente. Os tecidos ativados preparados de carbono exibem uma área superficial de 796 e 951 m 2 g-1 , e um volume de microporo de 0.416 cm 3 g-1 y 0.528 cm³ g-1 . Um estudo calorimetrico dos sólidos preparados reserva para estimar que as entalpias da imersão no tetracloreto do carbono são -4.66 J g-1 e -5.05 J g-1 respectivamente. Os resultados pelo microscopia ótica dos tecidos preparados são apresentados também.

A study of the scutellum in eight Chagas disease vector species from genus Triatoma (Hemiptera, Reduviidae) using optical and scanning electron microscopy

The aim of this study was to analyze the external morphology of the scutellum through optical microscopy and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) in male specimens of Triatoma costalimai, T. delpontei, T. eratyrusiformis, T. matogrossensis, T. infestans melanosoma, T. sherlocki, T. tibiamaculata, and T. vandae. A total of 30 photographs of the scutellum were made. Magnification varied from 50X to 750X. Regarding depth and forms of the central depression, the heart-shaped form was predominant, with some exceptions, so that this shape appears to be a common characteristic for species of genus Triatoma Laporte, 1832. In T. eratyrusiformis, a kind of sensillum with important taxonomic value was observed. The different sizes and shapes of the designs found on the posterior process of the scutellum were also of important taxonomic interest. The study of the scutellum based on SEM showed valuable characteristics, allowing the use of this structure to aid the diagnosis of triatomine species. Thus, more specimens in subsequent studies and analyses of morphometric parameters should contribute to agreement on phylogenetic aspects in this genus. A Key to eight species of Triatoma based on male scutellar morphology is presented.

Estudio con microscopia optica de alta resolucion (MOAR) del ciclo celular en pacientes con psoriasis / Hight resoluton optical microscopy of the cellular cycle in psoriasis patients

La Psoriais se caracteriza por incremento del ciclo celular a nivel epidérmico, evidenciado a nivel histopatológico por un intensa hiperparaqueratosis, acantosis, papilomatosis e inflamación crónica. Materiales y métodos: Se estudió con microscopia óptica de alta resolución (MOAR), la epidermis de pacientes portadores de Psoriasis, analizando, la diferenciación epitelial y las posibelas alteraciones estructurales de los queratinocitos. Resultados: Los especímenes correspondieron a 10 pacientes con diagnóstico clínico e histopatológico de psoriasis. Las biopsias de piel fueron fijadas en solución de glutaraldehido buffer-collidina durante 48hs, procesados con la técnica para MOAR y coloreados con azul de toluidina, azul de metileno, fuscina básica y metenamina-plata. Los elementos epiteliales basales presentaban núcleos ovoideos, varios de ellos con nucleólos prominentes. En 7 de los casos estudiados el estrato granuloso estuvo ausente y en los 3 casos restantes observamos retención de núcleos y nucleólos. Conclusiones: Seobservaron queratinocitos con anfofilia e infiltrado linfocitario y de macrofagos.

Skin tissue from patients with Psoriasis was analyzed using HROM (High Resolution Optical Microscopy), studying epithelial differentiation and possible structural alterations of the queratinocytes. The samples were taken from 10 patients with histopathologic diagnosis of Psoriasis. This tissue samples where affixed with glutaraldehide buffer-collidine for 48 hours. Later processed with the HROM technique and colored with toluidine blue, metilene blue, basic Fuscine, and silver metenamine. The basal epithelial elements presented ovoid nucleus and most of them had prominent nucleolus. In 7 of the studied cases, the granulose stratus was absent, and thinner in the rest, with nucleus and nucleolus retention. At this level queratinocytes where observed with perinuclear anfofilia, as well as linfocitic and macrophagic infiltrate and union complex where elongated.