Features of leaf morphology such as secretory duct distribution and venation patterns are important taxonomical tools; however, some species can have variation in these traits. This study evaluates whether the secretory duct distribution in the midrib and venation is similar across different leaves of 17 Aldama species. Six fully expanded leaves (three each of the largest and smallest size) from five distinct plants were selected to analyze the duct distribution. The samples were histologically examined, and the quantitative data were statistically analyzed. The venation pattern was analyzed in five fully expanded leaves of different plants. In all, 23 secretory duct distribution patterns were identified; they showed intra- and inter-species variations except in Aldama anchusifolia (DC.) E.E.Schill. & Panero and A. trichophylla (Dusén) Magenta. The largest number of ducts was not correlated with leaf and midrib dimensions (width and length). Further, Aldama venation could be divided into two groups: (1) pinnate camptodromous brochidodromous type (four species), and (2) acrodromous venation type and its basal and suprabasal variations (13 species). Thus, distinct secretory duct arrangements of the midrib might assist in the discrimination of Aldama species. The venation patterns were also important for distinguishing the majority of species selected.

Objectives This study evaluated the incidence of Candida species, and the genetic diversity and virulence of C. albicans of the oral cavity from patients with cleft lip and palate (CLP). Materials and methods Oral samples were investigated by microbiological and species-specific PCR methods. The genetic diversity of C. albicans was established using isoenzyme markers, Nei's statistics, and clustering analysis. Hydrolytic enzymes (SAPs and PLs) were analyzed in vitro. Results Oral colonization by Candida species was observed in 29 patients with CLP (65.9%), and C. albicans was highly prevalent. SAP and PL activities were observed in 100% and 51.9% of isolates, respectively. High genetic diversity and patterns of monoclonal and polyclonal oral colonization by C. albicans were observed among patients with CLP. Two major polymorphic taxa (A and B) and other minor polymorphic taxa (C to J) were identified. Only one of the 16 clusters (taxon A) harbored strains from patients with and without CLP, whereas other clusters harbored strains exclusively from CLP patients. Conclusions The anatomical conditions of the oral cavity of patients with CLP contribute to the high incidence of Candida species (C. albicans, C. krusei, C. tropicalis, and/or Candida spp.). Data suggest high genetic diversity of potentially virulent C. albicans strains in the oral cavity of CLP patients. Clinical relevance Microbiological niches in orofacial clefts can contribute to the emergence of a relative clinical genotypic identity of C. albicans. However, orofacial rehabilitation centers can contribute to the direct and indirect sources of transmission and propagation of Candida species.