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The presented research investigated the pollen morphology of endemic Iraqi Hypericum species. The study revealed phenotypic features of pollen grains in the polar and equatorial views and their quantitative and qualitative characteristics. The results showed that the pollen grains of the genus Hypericum were radially symmetrical and isopolar, and their apertures were simple and tricolporate, except the species H. davisii, distinguished as tetracolprate. Dividing the studied species based on pollen grain sizes comprised two groups. Small pollen grains with an average length of the equatorial view ranged between 10-16 µm in H. lysimachioides and H. vermiculare. Medium-sized pollen grains with an average extent between 17-26 µm emerged in the species, i.e., H. retusum, H. triquetrifolium, H. perforatum, H. lydium, H. tetrapterum, H. asperulium, H. scabrum, and H. davisii. Pollen grains, also divided according to the P/E ratio, had two main groups. The pollen grains were subprolate and spherical, with the exine sculpturing examined by a scanning electron microscope (SEM), and isolated into four groups: 1) microreticulate reticulum, including H. asperulium, H. lydium, and H. vermiculare, 2) perforate, i.e., H. retusum, H. scabrum, H. tetrapterum, and H. triquetrifolium, 3) psilate with H. perforatum and H. davisii, 4) and reticulate exine sculpturing in H. lysimachioides, all isolated from the rest of the species. SEM images showed the thickness of exine ranged from 0.5 to 2 µm. The topical study also added H. davisii as a new species with no previous records in Iraq. This pollen study added valuable data for taxonomy and suggested that it should proceed with its first-time registration in Iraq. The pertinent research could provide a taxonomical key for Hypericum species in Iraq. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pollen morphology of 26 taxa of Clerodendrum, as well as one species of Volkameria from China, was investigated through a scanning electron microscope (SEM). Pollen grains of Clerodendrum are monads, radiosymmetric and tricolpate, with medium or large size. The equatorial view of the pollen grains is spheroidal or subprolate and the polar view is (sub) circular or rounded triangular. The colpus membrane of the investigated taxa is sunken (rarely even). Five varying pollen types are delimited on the basis of exine sculpturing: (1) spine-tectum perforatum; (2) spine-tectum imperforatum; (3) microspine- tectum perforatum; (4) microspine-tectum imperforatum; and (5) obtuser spine. The results indicate that Clerodendrum is closely related to several genera in Lamiaceae, including Aegiphila, Amasonia, Kalaharia, Tetraclea, Volkameria, Oxera, Faradaya, and Hosea, as supported by previous phylogenic studies. Additionally, the conventional infrageneric classification of Clerodendrum based on inflorescence and leaf characters is not supported by the results. However, the palynological data can be used to identify some closely related species with similar external characteristics. In conclusion, the investigation of pollen morphology not only contributes novel data from palynology for Clerodendrum but also provides a basis for future comprehensive classification of this genus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Meloetyphlus Waterhouse is a monotypic genus of Meloidae ascribed to the tribe Tetraonycini, subfamily Meloinae. As for most blister beetles, its first-instar larvae (or triungulins) are parasites of bees, but M. fuscatus Waterhouse is the only species known to parasitize members of the tribe Euglossini (Hymenoptera: Apidae: Apinae). Despite being widely distributed in Central and South America, its presence in Colombia has never been confirmed. In this article, we document the occurrence of this genus in Colombia providing the first certain record for this country. In addition, some aspects of its parasitization of Eulaema nigrita Lepeletier are reported and illustrated with macrophotographs and a video. By the means of drawings and SEM micrographs, we provide the most detailed description of the first-instar larva of M. fuscatus to date and a comparison with the triungulin of the closely related Tetraonyx fulvus (LeConte). Finally, we investigated the phylogenetic position of Meloetyphlus using molecular data, to support its attribution to the tribe Tetraonycini. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

IN THIS study, we evaluated the storage proteins, macro- and micromorphological characters of seeds from 49 species belonging to 34 genera and seven subfamilies of the Malvaceae s.l. (i.e, Malvaceae s.s., Bombacaceae, Sterculiaceae, and Tiliaceae) along with one representative of the Elaeocarpaceae as an outgroup. We obtained microphotographs of the specimens using both light and scanning electron microscopes. The seed storage protein was subjected to sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS-PAGE). We analyzed 73 recorded characters (with 157 characters-states) were analyzed using the upgraded WinClada and TNT cladistic programs. A cladogram was constructed which indicated a clear indication about the systematic position between the studied species within the Malvaceae s.l. The results showed specific synapomorphic diagnostic characters are quite significant in species delimitation within the Malvaceae s.l. viz., including seed shape, apex, base, colour, size, texture, hilum shape, position, seed coat sculpture patterns, and occurrence of strophioly. Our results also support the monophyly of the studied genera in Malvioideae except for Gossypium and Thespesia, while para-polyphyly in the other six subfamilies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of Melaleuca cajuputi leaf extract (MCLE) on the biochemical and innate immunity of Macrobrachium rosenbergii was observed during the toxicity test. Thereafter, the sensitivity of MCLE against Probopyrus buitendijki was investigated. Firstly, the MCLE phytochemical compounds were analyzed using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Then, the MCLE solution was formulated at 0.00 (control), 0.28, 0.57, and 0.85 g/L, exposed to M. rosenbergii, and their biochemical and immunity responses were recorded after 3 days. The MCLE concentration was prepared based on the LC50 value that had been determined earlier. With the same MCLE concentrations, the sensitivity of MCLE against adult male, female, and larvae P. buitendijki was observed after 1 h of exposure using a scanning electron microscope (SEM). The results revealed the presence of 2-isopropyl-10-methylpenanthrene, phenanthrene, 1-methyl-7-(1-methyl ethyl)-, and 4H-1-benzopyran-4-one, 3-acetyl-5, 7-dihydoxy-2-methyl to be the major compounds in MCLE. A significant elevation (p<0.05) of the total protein (TP), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), and phenol oxidase (PO) activities of M. rosenbergii exposed to MCLE was observed compared to control. The total hemocyte count (THC), granular cells (GC), and hyaline cells (HC) were also increased (p<0.05) in MCLE-treated M. rosenbergii. All adult males, females, and eggs of P. buitendijki were dead after 1 h of exposure. Light damage including size reduction was observed in adult male and female P. buitendijki at 0.28 g/L MCLE, while their eggs were shrunken and some of them ruptured. Severe damage was observed in all adult male and female P. buitendijki at 0.85 g/L MCLE, with dented dorsal surfaces, and all eggs were ruptured. Findings indicated the potential of MCLE to improve immunity and health of M. rosenbergii, as well as act as an anti-parasitic agent against P. buitendijki. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: In this paper, we used scanning electron microscopy to describe the morphological types, number of sensilla, and their distributions on the antennae of each nymphal instar and adult of Notobitus meleagris (Hemiptera: Heteroptera: Coreidae). The results show that there were eight subtypes of sensilla on the antennae of the nymphs and 11 subtypes of sensilla on the antennae of the adults. With the growth of instars, the type, quantity, and size of the sensilla gradually increased. Sexual dimorphism did not appear in the type of sensilla but existed in the length and diameter of some sensilla. In addition, we also discussed the functions of different types of sensilla through previous published studies, which will be helpful for further research on the behavioral and biological control of N. meleagris. The bamboo bug Notobitus meleagris (Fabricius, 1787) is a serious pest of bamboo shoots in China, India, Myanmar, Vietnam, and Singapore. The antennae of the nymphal instars and adults of N.meleagris are involved in communication among individuals and finding the host plants. In order to understand the morphology of antennal sensilla, their types, and the distribution of sensilla on the antennae of nymphal instars and adults in N. meleagris, we studied the morphology of antennal sensilla with a scanning electron microscope. The antennae of the nymphs and adults comprised the scape, pedicel, and two flagellomeres. Four types and eight subtypes of sensilla were identified in the nymphal instars (sensilla trichodea [St].1, St.2, St.3, sensilla basiconica [Sb].1, Sb.2, sensilla chaetica [Sc].1, Sc.2, sensilla coeloconica [Sco].1), whereas those of the adults had five types and eleven subtypes of sensilla (St.1, St.2, St.3, Sb.1, Sb.2, Sb.3, Sc.1, Sc.2, Sco.1, Sco.2, and sensilla campaniformia [Sca]). There are significant differences in the number, type, and size of the sensilla in different nymphal instars, which increases with the increase in nymphal instars. There was no sexual dimorphism observed in the adult sensilla; however, the length and diameter of St.3, Sb.2, and Sb.3 were sexually dimorphic. The potential functions of each sensillum were discussed based on the morphology and distribution of the antennal sensilla and were compared with similar published studies. Our results provide primary data for further research on the behavioral mechanism, green prevention, and control of N. meleagris. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Stegelletina salinaria is redescribed from Spain and South Africa. Spanish material was collected in sandy soil from the type locality and a nearby area, while one population collected in compost was examined from South Africa. The species is characterised by its small size (0.27-0.41 mm), lateral field with three incisures, lip region with three pairs of dentate lips bearing four tines each, primary axils bearing a large guarding process, secondary axils lacking guarding processes, nerve ring and secretory-excretory pore at isthmus level, spermatheca and post-vulval uterine sac poorly developed, female tail conoid with rounded hyaline terminus and males unknown. The description, light micrographs and scanning electron microscope images, illustrations and molecular analyses are provided. 18S and 28S rDNA sequence analyses show that the isolates of S. salinaria from Spain and South Africa are closely related to each other and to other species of Stegelletina , while also indicating a close relationship with some species of Nothacrobeles , Scottnema and Stegelleta (28S tree) and Zeldia (18S tree). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper describes and illustrates the morphological traits of Impatiens zhaojueensis Q. Luo (Balsaminaceae), a new species from the Sichuan Province of southwestern China. Using a scanning electron microscope (SEM), the micromorphological characteristics of its pollen grains and seeds are also described. The new species is closely related to Impatiens baishaensis, but it has larger flowers, obround dorsal petals, somewhat clawed lateral united petals, obround or obround‐dolabriform distal lobes and the ornamentation on the pollen grains has wider meshes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A new species, Chrysosphaerella septentrionalis, is described from a peat bog located on the bank of the Paz River (Pasvik Nature Reserve, Murmansk Region, Russia). Scale ultrastructure was studied using a scanning electron microscope. Morphologically, C. septentrionalis seems to closely resemble C. longispina. However, C. septentrionalis possesses subcircular scales in addition to the oval scales, and they are much smaller than in C. longispina. We suppose that C. septentrionalis is the first pseudocryptic species within the C. longispina complex. Additionally, we proposed an infrageneric classification of Chrysosphaerella based on the scale structure and divided the genus into three sections: Chrysosphaerella, Brevispinae sect. nov. and Septispinae sect. nov. The formal description of a new family Chrysosphaerellaceae fam. nov. is also provided. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ultrastructure of sensilla on the wings of the cob borer Stenachroia elongella Hampson (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae) were analysed with the Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM). This revealed the presence of three types of sensilla viz., sensilla squamiformia (SSq), sensilla chaetica (SCh) and sensilla campaniformia (SCa); SSq and SCh were observed on both the dorsal and ventral sides of forewing and hindwing, whereas SCa was observed only on the dorsal side of the hindwing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study conducted a detailed evaluation of the nutritional value and proximate composition of milled quinoa grain at different dehulling rates with the goal of identifying a range of dehulling rates that retain the maximum level of nutrients and phytochemicals. Eleven samples of quinoa grain processed at different dehulling rates were obtained through light abrasive milling. The relationship between the dehulling rate and the nutritional composition of quinoa grain was determined. As the dehulling rate increased, the proportions of protein, fat, dietary fiber and ash decreased, whereas the proportion of starch increased. With the increase of dehulling rate, increasing amounts of protein, fat, starch, dietary fiber, saponin, flavonoids, and total phenolic were lost with the hull residue. At the dehulling rates of 8.6%, 11.72% protein, 7.57% fat, 4.72% starch, 28.9% total dietary fiber, 45.5% soluble dietary fiber, 48.58% saponin, 26.18% flavonoid, and 42.25% total phenolic were lost in dehulled quinoa grain compared with the raw quinoa grain. Optical microscope photos and scanning electron microscope (SEM) images showed that only the pericarp of quinoa was scoured when the dehulling rate was below 8.6%, and the quinoa grain retained a complete embryo. Therefore, to retain maximum nutritional and phytochemical content in the quinoa and maintain quinoa grain integrity, it is necessary to limit the dehulling rate of quinoa in the range of less than 8.6%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Perkinsosis is a major disease affecting the commercially important marine mollusk Ruditapes philippinarum (Manila clam) in Asian waters. In this study, we investigated the morphological characteristics of Perkinsus olseni, the causative agent of perkinsosis, cultured under laboratory conditions at different stages of its life cycle using a scanning electron microscope (SEM). Results: The prezoosporangia formed after induction with Ray's fluid thioglycollate medium (RFTM) developed into zoosporangia. During this process, a discharge tube formed a porous sponge-like structure that detached before the zoospores were released; thus, this organelle operated as a bung. Liberated zoospores gradually transformed into immature trophozoites, during which detachment of the anterior flagella occurred, but the loss of the posterior flagella was not clearly observed in the present study. Mature trophozoites underwent schizogony by cleaving the cell forming some merozoites in schizonts, which were released by the rupturing of the cellular membrane of the schizont within a few days. Conclusions: Our morphological and ultrastructural studies contribute new information on the life cycle and propagation of P. olseni. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pollen morphology of 28 species and 5 varieties representing 8 genera of subfamily Polygonoidae (Polygonaceae), collected from various altitudinal ranges of Darjeeling Himalaya, sub-Himalayan Terai, Duars, Gangetic plains, Sundarbans and Western plateau of West Bengal and NE India, were examined critically under light (LM) and scanning electron microscope (SEM) to explore their distinctive features. Anthers were processed through acetolysis method and obtained grains were properly studied, measured and photographed. The shape, size, aperture type and exine ornamentation of pollen grains served as a reliable features in current study as taxonomic tool for the authentic identification at species and varietal level. The studied characters under LM and SEM were further statistically analyzed through ANOVA, PCA, Pearson Correlation Matrix to understand the interrelationship among the taxa and pollen grains were recorded monad, isopolar and radiosymmetric type. Pantoporate, tricolpate, tricolporate aperture type and exine ornamentation appears to be valuable and unique characters were found useful tool for the delimitation and differentiation of closely related taxa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, pollen morphology of some endemic species belonging to Scrophulariaceae family and their distribution limited to Erzincan was studied by using Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM). Pollen sizes, pollen types, pollen patterns, polen ornaments and apertures tructures of Scrophularia erzincanica, Scrophularia fatmae, Verbascum leiocarpum, Verbascum ozturkii were investigated. In both Scrophularia species pollen size is medium and polen types tricolpat. Although pollen form of two species is close to each other, Scrophularia erzincanica was found to be subprolate and in Scrophularia fatmae it was perprolate. Ornamentations were determined as verrucat and reticulat respectively. In the study of Verbascum species; In the two types studied, it was found that the pollen size was medium-sized, the pollen shape was spherodial in Verbascum leiocarpum, the subprolate was Verbascum ozturkii, the polen types were tricolpate and their ornamentations were reticulate. When the findings of the studied species are evaluated, it is thought that polen morphologies in Scrophularia speciesare not enough to be used in the differentiation of taxa, and Verbascum species shows differences in polen type and it can be used in distinguishing taxa in this context. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Our objective in this work consists in the synthesis, the characterization, the elaboration, the formulation, and the rheological study of the new phosphoric epoxy resin: pentaglycidyl ether pentaphenoxy of phosphorus (PGEPPP). Thus, we identified this polymer by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. Then, its chemical structure was confirmed by nuclear magnetic resonance of proton (1H NMR) and carbon (13C NMR). Furthermore, the rheological analyzes of the epoxy resin and their composite (PGEPPP/MDA/PN) were determined by the RHM01-RD HAAKE rheometer. Moreover, this epoxy polymer and their composite have been applied in flow phenomena and implementation. Finally, we proceeded to the morphological of the composite (PGEPPP/MDA/PN) using the scanning electron microscope, in order to confirm the dispersion of the natural phosphate load incorporated into the prepared composite. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A comprehensive study was conducted on the nest materials of Vespa crabro (Linnaeus, 1758) and Polistes dominula (Christ, 1791) (Hymenoptera: Vespidae) of Black Sea region origin. Study of the physicochemical and surface properties, determination of the chemical-structural features, and bioactivity studies of the samples were carried out in four planned steps. In the first step, the physicochemical properties, the ratio of the plant material to the oral secretions, the water absorption and oil percentages as well as thermal analyses were researched. In the second step, observation of the surfaces under a light microscope and scanning electron microscope uncovered the surface properties. In the third step, chemical studies of the extracts from the solvents of different polarities (methanol, acetone and petroleum benzine) revealed the molecular functionalities of the biocompounds which were inside the materials using UV-Vis., FTIR, GC-MS, and elemental analysis techniques. In the last stage, the extracts underwent bioactivity research of antimicrobial and antioxidant screening with a phytochemical search of phenolic compound determination. The obtained data revealed the nesting properties and differences between the two species. In the P. dominula nest, the plant fibers were long and were glued regularly, and some were cross-linked and thick while in the V. crabro nest, the plant fibers were fine, grooved, thin and disordered. The comb surface of V. crabro was larger than that of P. dominula with minimum values of 75 and 37.5 cm2, respectively. The bioactivity research of the materials showed the high potential of the antimicrobial and antioxidant properties of some nests' extracts. In all the extracts, the samples belonging to the V. crabro nest material had the highest biological activity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study includes on the taxonomic evaluation of morphological and anatomical features of seeds belonging to Iris taxa, which are I. suaveolens, I. sintenisii, I. foetidissima and I. germanica scattered in Turkey. Morphological features like dimension, shape, colour, and surface ornamentation types of seeds have studied by light and scanning electron microscopes. The structure and thicknesses of testa and parenchyma layers in seeds have examined anatomically. The obtained results show that the color, shape, testa structure and thickness of the seeds of the examined taxa are different in some respects. Furthermore, the surface ornamentations are somewhat diverse for the studied taxa at the interspecific level. As a result, it has been determined that the examined morphological and anatomical characteristics of the seeds show variations with some exceptions, and this situation has a taxonomic importance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, the palynomorphology of 17 taxa of section Cheirolepis in Turkey, were investigated by light (LM) and scanning electron microscope (SEM). Detailed descriptions of the pollen grains were given for each taxon and a well-resolved dendrogram was generated through numerical analysis of palynological diagnostic features. The pollen grains were found to be radially symmetric, isopolar, and generally 3-zonocolporate, with the exception of C. derderiifolia, C. kotschyi var. floccosa, and C. saligna, which were also 4-zonocolporate. The shape of the pollen grains were prolatespheroidal, with the polar axes of 32.76-46.26 µm and equatorial axes of 31.86-45.82 µm. The sculpturing of the pollen grains was generally scabrate-perforate or rarely microechinate-perforate. The spines were conical with a changing base length. The length and the width of the spines varied between 0.48 and 2.28 µm and 0.4 and 3.39 µm, respectively. The number of perforations at the base of the spines ranged in two or more rows and they varied between 5 and 30. The number of spines was 16-70 in 10 µm2. The results of this study showed that the polar axes, equatorial axes, aperture type, pollen shape, spine length, perforation number, and number of spines in 10 µm2 are essential for distinguishing the studied taxa. The taxa were grouped by clustering analysis of selected pollen characters using the UPGMA method. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pratylenchus vulnus was discovered in nematode-distributing fields from symptomatic seedling roots and corresponding rhizosphere soil on strawberry farms in Taiwan. Microscopic measurements and scanning electron microscope observations of both sexes of the nematode coincided with the general morphological descriptions of the species. Four different types of female tail termini were observed, including pointed, digitate, smooth and tapering. Molecular analysis of the ribosomal RNA sequence (SSU, ITS and LSU regions) and the mitochondria COI gene sequences confirmed the species identification. Phylogenetic analysis suggested no specific geographic linkage of the Taiwan population to other previously reported populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A comparative macro- and micromorphological study was conducted on achenes of Korean Polygonaceae comprising 45 taxa under 10 genera using a Stereo-microscope (SM) and Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) to evaluate the taxonomical relevance of achene morphological characteristics. The achene shape is lenticular, biconvex, trigonous, or spheroidal. The largest achenes are found in Fagopyrum esculentum Moench (5.80-6.70 × 3.90-4.40 mm) and Rheum rhabarbarum L. (5.00-6.50 × 4.00-5.20 mm), and the smallest is found in Rumex maritimus L. (1.17-1.41 × 0.60-0.84 mm). Three types of embryo shape (curved, straight, and folded) and two types of embryo position (plane and parietal) can be distinguished. Most taxa have a curved embryo shape with plane position. Four types of surface patterns (smooth, papillae, tuberculate, or small pits) are observed. The surface sculpture or embryo type is rather consistent at the generic or tribal level, and the comprehensive consideration of achene characteristics is also useful at the species level. The achene morphology is described in detail, compared, and illustrated. The taxonomic significance of the achene morphology is discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recent developments in engineering have promoted the use of reinforced composite materials from natural fibers, which provides an opportunity to investigate such materials using state-of the-art tools. Here we present a morphological and nanomechanical characterization of the parallel section of the axis of guadua Angustifolia kunth fibers (GAK) from Colombia, focusing on properties such as hardness (nanoindentation), roughness and topography. Our method was based on the application of scanning electron microscope (SEM) and atomic force microscope (AFM). AFM provided curves of force by displacement, as well as characteristics of dynamic nanoindentation systems and images. Their analysis revealed ridges and valleys on the surface of GAK fibers. The estimated surface roughness of 9.51 nm suggests an adequate value to provide superior adhesion between polymer and fiber. The same conclusion follows from our measurements of hardness, reduced modulus and nanoscale topography. Due to their excellent properties, we conclude that GAK fibers represent an ideal reinforcement material in polymer matrices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Octodonta nipae (Maulik, 1921), a hispid that damages several species of palm trees, was introduced accidently into China in 2001. The egg, larva, prepupa and pupa of O. nipae are illustrated and described in detail and compared with another invasive species, Brontispa longissima (Gestro, 1885); the scanning electron micrographs of the head capsule, antenna, maxilla, labium and lateral scoli are provided, as well as photos of body of all larval instars and pupa. It is the second description of immature stages in the genus Octodonta Chapuis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copper-containing thin films were synthesized by a citrate sol-gel method using ethylene glycol. The evolution of the shape and local atomic structure of the copper-containing fractal crystallites at different stages of growth was investigated by the combination of experimental and theoretical techniques. A surface morphological study of the deposited film samples was carried out using SEM. It revealed the evolution of the crystallite structures as a function of annealing temperature. To describe this mechanism diffusion-limiting aggregation and cluster-cluster models were used. X-ray absorption spectroscopy (XANES) was applied to show the dynamics of the local atomic structure of Cu ion and the copper oxidation state at different stages of crystallites formation. It was found that at temperatures up to 250 °C the Cu2Cl(OH)3 (atacamite phase) and chelate complex are formed. With temperature increases changes in the local atomic structure as well as in morphology take place and at 500 °C CuO formed. As a result of these processes, the fractal organization of the other level was observed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Six rare species of the family Cephalobidae (Pseudacrobeles laevis, Heterocephalobellus magnificus, Stegelleta ophioglossa, Paracrobeles psammophilus, Nothacrobeles nanocorpusandAcrobeles bushmanicus) are described from the Southern Iberian Peninsula, mainly from sandy habitats. Five of these species are reported for the first time from Spain and four of them from Europe. Furthermore, the male ofN. nanocorpusis described for the first time. Descriptions, measurements and illustrations are presented for all species. Scanning electron microscope study is provided forH. magnificus, N. nanocorpusandA. bushmanicus. In addition, comparative morphometrics for all species studied compared with other populations of the same species are included. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The purpose of the present study was to investigate the cleaning efficacy of 2 different nickel-titanium (NiTi) rotary systems: a new single system Reciproc compared with the rotary full sequence Mtwo. The amount of debris and the morphology of smear layer were the parameters for the evaluation of the cleanliness of root canals. The null hypothesis of the study was that there would be no significant difference in debris scores and smear layer scores between the 2 systems. Methods: Forty single-rooted freshly extracted teeth were selected and divided into 2 groups. For each group, all root canals were shaped with 2 different NiTi instruments (Mtwo and Reciproc) and irrigated with 5.25% NaOCl and 17% ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) solutions by 3 trained operators. Specimens were fractured longitudinally and prepared for scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analysis at a standard magnification of ×5,000. The presence/absence of smear layer and the presence/absence of debris at the coronal, middle and apical third of each canal were evaluated using two 5-step scales for scores. Numeric data were analyzed using the Kruskal-Wallis and Mann-Whitney U statistical tests, and significance was set at a P value <0.05. Results: This study revealed significant differences among the various groups. The Mtwo group presented significantly lower smear layer scores than the Reciproc group (P<0.01) in the middle and apical third of the canal. Conclusions: Conventional continuous rotary NiTi instruments associated with 5.25% NaOCl and 17% EDTA solutions seem to be better for obtaining clean dentinal canal walls. Reciprocating instruments leave a higher quantity of smear layer which covers dentinal walls and dentinal tubules. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aphelenchoides stellatus n. sp. is described and figured. The new species was isolated from packaging wood from Japan imported to Ningbo harbour, China. The new species has a body length of 485-533 μm (males) and 547-699 μm (females). The cuticle is weakly annulated and there are four lines in the lateral field. The stylet is 9-11 μm long and has small basal swellings. The excretory pore is located posterior to the nerve ring. Spicules smoothly curved, rose-thorn shaped. Apex and rostrum round, only slightly offset, dorsal limb 19-21 μm long. Male tail bearing six (2 + 2 + 2) caudal papillae. The female spermatheca is axial and oblong with round sperm present in multiple rows. Both male and female tail pegs have 3-4 processes, appearing star-like under SEM. The new species belongs to the Group 3 category of Aphelenchoides species. Phylogenetic analyses based on full length ITS and 28S D2/D3 region of rDNA confirmed its morphological status as a new species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Low density polyethylene films blended (LDPE) with mixed Ferrous ricinoleate maleic dextrose additive have been exposed to accelerated UV and biotic environments. The films were accelerated UV light for 70 h before being mixed with water and municipal solid compost. The photo degraded and biodegraded LDPE films were examined by infrared spectroscopy and also to study the photodegraded film attacked by mitochondria β oxidation process of microorganism and its morphological study by SEM analysis and degree of crystallinity behaviour by XRD analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pin nematodes of the genus Paratylenchus are widely distributed across the world and associated with many plant species. Morphological identification of Paratylenchus species is a difficult task because it relies on many characters with a wide range of intraspecific variation. In this study we provide morphological and molecular characterisation of several pin nematodes: Paratylenchus aquaticus, P. dianthus, P. hamatus, P. nanus and P. straeleni, collected in different states of the USA and South Africa. Paratylenchus aquaticus is reported from South Africa and Hawaii and P. nanus is found from South Africa for the first time. Morphological descriptions, morphometries, light and scanning electron microscopic photos and drawings are given for these species. Molecular characterisation of nematodes using the D2-D3 of 28S rRNA and ITS rRNA gene sequence revealed that samples morphologically identified as P. aquaticus, P. hamatus and P. nanus indeed represent species complexes containing several species. Sequences of the rRNA genes are also provided for several unidentified Paratylenchus. Phylogenetic relationships within the genus Paratylenchus are given as inferred from the analyses of the D2-D3 of 28S rRNA and ITS rRNA gene sequences. We present here the most complete phylogenetic analysis of the genus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The morphology of Meloidogyne chitwoodi is relatively poorly characterised. In a recent study, morphological variation in adult females of M. chitwoodi was analysed. However, comparable data are lacking for adult males and second-stage juveniles (J2). Therefore, our studies of four M. chitwoodi isolates from the western USA, representing all currently known races and pathotypes, were designed to characterise intraspecific morphological variability in J2 and males and to compare it to variability found in adult females. Multivariate analysis of variance indicated statistically significant variation among isolates for both J2 and males. Moreover, for adult males, canonical discriminant analysis grouped races with their respective pathotypes. In addition, we analysed two morphological features that were previously uncharacterised for M. chitwoodi, i.e., stylet knob width and distance from secretory-excretory pore to anterior end. Both of these characters may be useful in distinguishing M. chitwoodi from closely related species. SEM clearly showed the presence of areolations along the bodies of J2, thereby separating M. chitwoodi from M. fallax and M. minor. In summary, this study indicates that M. chitwoodi J2 and adult males show substantially more intraspecific morphological variability than previously known. Consequences for diagnostics are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article investigates the seed exomorphic characteristics of 14 taxa of Lepidium L. in Brassicaceae by light microscope and scanning electron microscope (SEM). The exomorphic characteristics of the seed are size, seed shape, seed colour, seed wings, and seed surface pattern. All characteristics of the seeds are described, illustrated, and compared in this article. The results of SEM at higher magnification showed 6 types of seed surface patterns: tuberculate, reticulate, ruminate, reticulate-tuberculate, reticulate-areolate, and reticulate-fovate. In these seed surface patterns, there were diagnostic characteristics and differences at the specific level for Lepidium. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] SEM and TEM of antennal sensilla of Macrocentrus cingulum Brischke. [•] Cuticular pore and nine types of morphologically distinct sensilla were identified. [•] These sensilla may act as mechano-, chemo-, thermo-, and hygroreceptor in both sexes. [•] The male antennae length and width were significantly greater than those of females. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: The male reproductive system of Dolycoris baccarum (Linnaeus 1758) is studied morphologically and histologically using both light and scanning electron microscopes (SEM). The reproductive system of the male D. baccarum consists of a pair of testis, a pair of vas deferens, a pair of seminal vesicles, accessory glands (mesadenia, ectadenia), a bulbus ejaculatorius, a pair of ectodermal sacs, and a ductus ejaculatorius. The number of testicular follicles varies from four to six. The testicular follicles have three different development zones (growth zone, maturation zone, differentiation zone). The testes are connected to the seminal vesicles by the vas deferens. Vas deferens and seminal vesicles, which are fine-long and cylindrical. The seminal vesicle is connected with bulbus ejaculatorius which is balloon-shaped and surrounded with accessory glands. The bulbus ejaculatorius is continuous with ductus ejaculatorius which connected to the aedeagus. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

The systematic position of Amphidoma caudata Halldal within the genus Amphidoma has remained uncertain as a result of its plate formula and the absence of molecular phylogenetic data. Also, this thecate dinoflagellate taxon has been used to designate two distinct morphotypes. The present study aims to clarify the generic affiliation of Amphidoma caudata and the taxonomic value of two different morphotypes M1 and M2. The new examination of the plate formula using SEM showed that it was the same for both morphotypes and that it corresponded to the tabulation of the recent erected genus Azadinium Elbrächter et Tillmann. Morphometric analysis, using cell size, length of apical projection in conjunction with the cell length, and the ratio of horn and spine showed that M1 and M2 formed two distinct groups. These results were supported by a molecular approach, revealing notable differences in the sequences of LSU rDNA and ITS region between these two morphotypes. Phylogenetic analyses inferred either from LSU and combined SSU, ITS region and COI data positioned M1 and M2 in a sister cluster of Azadinium species while Amphidoma languida Tillmann, Salas et Elbrächter, the only species of Amphidoma for which sequence data were available, was situated in a basal position of the Azadinium clade. Thus, we propose the transfer of Amphidoma caudata to the genus Azadinium and, consequently, the rehabilitation of the original tabulation of the genus Amphidoma Stein. To discriminate the two morphotypes, we propose a rank of variety with the following designations: Azadinium caudatum var. caudatum and Azadinium caudatum var. margalefii. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

By the methods of high-resolution raster electronic microscopy (SEM), it is set that addition of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) to PTFE causes a change morphology: porosity, presence of polycrystalline fibrillar lamellas, friability of packing of elements of structure, adhesion of filler, with a matrix is low, a transitional layer is poorly expressed. Coefficient of friction for samples with a different percentage CNTs differs more than on 70%. Intensity of the linear wear down diminishes for all of composites of PTFE/CNT with content 1,0;, 2,5 and 5,0 % CNT in ~ 6, 17 and 65 times from an initial value accordingly. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Examination of perianal folds of stinkpot turtles, Sternotherus odoratus, from Virginia, USA, revealed several monhysterid nematodes. The general morphological characteristics of this population, such as circular amphids, unstriated cuticle under light microscope, single outstretched ovary, single testis, caudal glands, terminal spinneret and the absence of an apophysis on the gubernaculum, with the exception of the position of the gonad in relation to the intestine, shows the affinity of this population to the Monhysteridae. Microscopic observations of the inner stoma show three (one dorsal and two ventro-sublateral) buccal wall extensions towards the lumen and numerous (ca 50) distinct denticles on its wall. Because this stoma structure is a morphological novelty within the Monhysterida and this is the first monhysterid group associated with perianal folds of turtles, we propose to establish Testudinema n. gen. within the Monhysteridae to accommodate this morphologically distinct population. We provide a detailed comparison with known monhysterid genera including those that possess a cup-shaped stoma, stoma with denticles or those genera reported to be commensals (Gammarinema, Monhystrium, Tripylium, Odontobius). Stinkpot turtles feed on benthic fauna and may acquire these commensals when the sediment is disturbed. The denticles and structure of the buccal cavity could be morphological adaptations for transition to ecto-parasitism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Descriptions of eight new and three known species of Tarvaia are given. Tarvaia pacifica sp. n. has cephalic capsule reaching posterior part of short amphids, amphidial shield without ornamentation, straight vagina with pars refringens vaginae, slightly asymmetrical spicules, gubernaculum with two dorsal apophyses, precloacal ridge present; T. algicola sp. n. has cephalic capsule with unevenly thickened walls reaching posterior part of short amphids, amphidial shield without ornamentation, straight vagina, apophyses absent, precloacal ridge present; T. carolinensis sp. n. has cephalic capsule reaching posterior part of short amphids, amphidial shield with ornamentation, sigmoid vagina, gubernaculum with a dorsal apophysis; T. longispiculata sp. n. has elongated cephalic capsule reaching posterior part of elongate amphids, amphidial shield without ornamentation, sigmoid vagina, unusually long spicules, gubernaculum with dorsal apophysis, precloacal ridge present; T. inaequalis sp. n. has short cephalic capsule reaching anterior third of elongate amphids, amphidial shield with ornamentation, straight vagina, strongly anisometric spicules, gubernaculum with caudal apophysis, precloacal ridge present; T. sakhalinensis sp. n. has short cephalic capsule reaching middle of short amphids, amphidial shield with distinct pores, symmetrical spicules, apophyses absent; T. tchesunovi sp. n. has cephalic capsule with unevenly thickened walls reaching posterior part of short amphids, amphidial shield without ornamentation, symmetrical spicules, apophyses absent; and T. ricordensis sp. n. has cephalic capsule reaching posterior part of short amphids, amphidial shield without ornamentation, straight vagina, symmetrical spicules, gubernaculum with dorsal apophyses. Updated descriptions of T. donsi, T. cladara and T. gerlachi are provided. Phylogenese analysis based on 18S rDNA suggests a close relationship between Tarvaia and Desmoscolecida. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]