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A new technique for cross sectioning free hairs
The Journal of Investigative Dermatology
|February 1, 1977
Summary
A new Araldite embedding method provides rigid hair specimen sectioning, preventing distortion. This technique allows for precise cross-sections of hair shafts for detailed analysis.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Forensic Science
- Microscopy
Background:
- Traditional paraffin embedding for hair shaft sectioning can lead to compression artifacts.
- Distortion of hair shaft morphology hinders accurate microscopic examination.
Purpose of the Study:
- To introduce a novel embedding technique for hair specimens using Araldite.
- To overcome the limitations of compression and distortion inherent in conventional methods.
Main Methods:
- Hair specimens were embedded using Araldite, a more rigid medium than paraffin.
- Semithin sections were prepared perpendicular to the hair shaft axis.
- Phase contrast optics were utilized for examining the prepared sections.
Main Results:
- The Araldite embedding medium prevented compression artifacts during sectioning.
- Accurate cross-sections of hair shafts were obtained by correlating with longitudinal position.
- Detailed examination of various hair types became feasible without structural distortion.
Conclusions:
- Araldite embedding offers superior rigidity for hair specimen sectioning compared to paraffin.
- This method ensures the integrity of hair shaft morphology for accurate analysis.
- The technique facilitates precise cross-sectional examination of diverse hair types.