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Objective: To compare functional outcome of microscopic and endoscopic approach regarding type of ossiculoplasty. Methods: In this retrospective study, cases who had undergone type-II and type-III tympanoplasty between February 2007 to September 2019 were divided into two groups according to the type of approach as microscopic and endoscopic. In cases with type-II reconstruction; Partial Ossicular chain Replacement Prosthesis (PORP), incus interposition and bone cement were used in order of frequency. Whereas in cases with type-III reconstruction, only Total Ossicular chain Replacement Prosthesis (TORP) was used. The average Air Bone Gap (ABG) was determined pre- and post-operatively for the calculation of Air Conductance Gain (ACG). The ACG, pre- and post-operative ABG values of each group were compared with regard to the type of ossiculoplasty. Results: A total of 79 cases consisting of 32 females and 47 males who had undergone type-II and type-III tympanoplasty were enrolled. No statistically significant difference between microscopic and endoscopic approach was found in terms of ACG (p = 0.42), pre-(p = 0.23) and postoperative ABG (p = 0.99). We did not find any significant difference in terms of ACG, pre- and postoperative ABG between two approaches for type-II and type-III reconstructions (p > 0.05). Conclusions: According to the current study, endoscopic approach in type-II and type-III reconstruction is at least reliable as microscopic approach regarding functional outcome. Since both techniques have similar functional results, other factors (anatomic characteristics, habitude of the surgeon and duration of the surgery) should be considered when choosing the technique. Level of evidence: In the current paper we present a retrospective comparative study of two different approaches of a particular type of otologic surgery. Level of evidence corresponds to level III.

The relationship between the thixotropic mechanism and the macroscopic thixotropic strength can be clarified by analyzing the changes in microstructure and pores in the loess thixotropic process. This approach is of significant importance for calculating the strength of compacted loess foundations. In the present study, a representative sample prepared from Xi’an loess was analyzed and eight resting ages were set. The micropore characteristics of the remolded loess and undisturbed loess at different resting ages were obtained using electron microscope observation and nuclear magnetic resonance testing. The results indicate that the thixotropy in the prepared loess samples is significant. It is also found that as the resting age grew, newly formed cements in the remolded loess continuously accumulated and filled in the microcracks between the aggregates. Consequently, the contact area of aggregates increased, thereby decreasing the width and length of the microcracks. The proportion of cementation pore and small microcracks gradually increased, while the proportion of large microcracks gradually decreased, indicating that thixotropy increased the cohesive force and friction force of soil structure at the mesoscale. This phenomenon also explains the increase of thixotropic strength at the macroscopic scale. The mesoscopic mechanism of loess thixotropic strength recovery is that the connection between soil particles is re-established after the break of the clay particle–water–charge system. Moreover, the elastic potential energy of soil particles generated by compression promoted the polymerization of clay particles dispersed in a pore water solution to produce flocculating aggregates during resting dissipation. The continuous consumption of clay particles expanded the processing time and flocs and continuously decreased the strength growth rate.

Background: Choroid plexus papilloma (CPP) is rare and even rarer in infants and young children, and it usually occurs in the ventricles. Due to the physical peculiarities of infants, tumor removal by microscopic or endoscopic surgery alone is difficult. Case Presentation: A 3-month-old patient was found to have an abnormally enlarged head circumference for 7 days. Cranial magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) examination revealed a lesion in the third ventricle. The patient underwent combined microscopic and endoscopic "chopstick" technique to remove the tumor. He recovered well after the surgery. Postoperative pathological examination revealed CPP. Postoperative MRI suggested total resection of the tumor. Follow-up for 1 month showed no recurrence or distant metastasis. Conclusions: Combined microscopic and endoscopic "chopstick" technique may be a suitable approach to remove tumors in infant ventricles. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tympanic membrane perforation in a common problem that otolaryngologist encounter in day to day practice requiring tympanoplasty or myringoplasty. The cause of tympanic membrane perforation is either trauma, infection, or iatrogenic. The incidence of tympanic perfo ration in United States is 1 to 3% in lifetime. Objective: To compare endoscopic versus microscopic myringoplasty in terms of graft success, operative time, pre and post operative Air bone gap. Material and Methods: To compare the results of myringoplasty using operating microscope (post aural) with endoscopic approach (permeatal). This retrospective comparative study was conducted in department of ENT in DHQAbbottabad after approval from ethical committee for a period of three years from January 2019 till December 2021. A total of 80 patients age group from 18 till 70 with tympanic membrane perforation were included in study. Results: 80 patients were included in study. 40 patients in each group. The mean age in group A was 44.63±13.83 years while in group B it was 46.20±12.09 years. Graft success rate was 95 percent in endoscopic approach while 92.5% percent in microscopic group with a p value of 0.64. The pre-operative mean air bone gap was 24.15 db and 23.08 db, improved to 10.23db in endoscopic group and 9.2 db in microscopic group (p > 0.05). Conclusion: In our study graft success was comparable in both groups. The surgical success rates were 95% in Group A and 92.5% in Group B. No differences in the mean decrease in the air-bone gap between two groups. Significant postoperative hearing improvements were evident in both groups. The mean operative time was lesser in case of endoscopic approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Chronic otitis media (COM) is a widespread disease in developing countries. Tympanoplasty is one of the common procedures in otorhinolaryngology for the treatment of COM. It can be done using microscope or endoscope. Present study is a comparison between these two techniques. Aims and Objectives: 1. Comparing the graft take-up rate between endoscopic and microscopic tympanoplasties. 2. Comparing the hearing result in microscopic and endoscopic tympanoplasties. 3. Comparing the operation time and postoperative complications. Materials and Methods: 100 patients were studied, out of which 50 were operated with microscope and 50 with endoscope. Patients were selected randomly from the ENT department. Results: Study shows that 50 patients were operated with endoscope and 50 were with microscope. The graft take-up rate is slightly higher in the endoscopic group in comparison to the microscopic group, i.e., 94% in the microscopic group and 96% in the endoscopic group. The endoscopic group has hearing improvement of average 17.4 dB as compared to the microscopic group (average 15.57 dB) postoperatively. A paired t-test shows P = 0.0001 (significant). Postoperative pain is more with the microscopic group. Clarity of vision is good with the endoscopic group. Conclusion: Hence, in our study, endoscopic tympanoplasty is better than microscopic tympanoplasty. But further study has to be done to identify the fact. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To improve the oil recovery efficiency of ASP (alkali-surfactant-polymer) flooding, lipopeptide surfactant was added into ASP to form a new system (LASP). Core flooding experiments and field pilots suggested that LASP can achieve better oil recovery with lower costs. To determine the synergistic effects of the LASP system, a series of pore-scale flooding experiments were performed to quantify the displacement and sweep efficiencies of the LASP system and its main components independently. The results suggested that the petroleum sulfonate tends to improve displacement efficiency (by 21.1%) and the polymer tends to widen the effective sweep area (by 14.2%). While lipopeptide improved both oil displacement efficiency (31.2%) and sweep efficiency (10.2%) depending on the oil emulsification. Their mixture, that is; LASP, reached a higher displacement (42.1%) and sweep efficiency (12.9%) that depended on synergistic effects between the components. For instance, the bio- and chemical surfactants and the polymer synergistically improved the stability and deformability of oil emulsion, which reduce flow resistance and then improve displacement efficiency. However, the throat-blocking mechanism, which expanded sweep area during lipopeptide flooding, no longer existed in the LASP system. Nevertheless, the LASP system can depend on high viscosity of polymer to effectively expand sweep area. Oil recovery in the LASP system is more than the sum of the mechanism of each component. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to study the mechanical properties of rubber concrete (RC) with different rubber particle sizes after dry–wet cycles in a sulfate environment, apparent morphology analysis, mass loss analysis, relative dynamic elastic modulus analysis, compressive strength loss analysis, internal microscopic characteristics and deterioration degree analysis of ordinary concrete (NC) and rubber concrete after dry–wet cycles were compared and analyzed. The results show that with the increase in the number of dry–wet cycles, the surface caves of rubber concrete increase, the internal microcracks develop and penetrate, and the macroscopic strength increases first and then decreases significantly. The high elasticity of rubber effectively improves the expansion force caused by sulfate attack and the dry–wet cycle. The deterioration degree of RC in each dry–wet cycle stage is obviously better than that of NC. When the rubber particle size is 0.85 mm, the performance of the sample is the best. After 120 days of dry–wet cycle, the compressive strength is reduced by 37.4%, and the compressive strength of concrete with a rubber particle size of 0.85 mm is reduced by 11.2%. After cyclic loading, the deterioration degree of concrete is 5.1% lower than that of ordinary concrete. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to study the mechanical properties of rice husk ash–rubber–fiber concrete (RRFC) under hygrothermal environment, the optimal group was selected by orthogonal test. The mass loss, relative dynamic elastic modulus analysis, strength analysis, degradation degree analysis after cyclic loading and internal microstructure analysis of the optimal group of RRFC samples after dry–wet cycles under different environments and temperatures were compared and analyzed. The results show that the large specific surface area of rice husk ash optimizes the particle size distribution of RRFC specimens, reacts to form C-S-H gel, enhances the compactness of concrete, and forms a dense structure as a whole. The presence of rubber particles and PVA fibers effectively improves the mechanical properties and fatigue resistance of RRFC. The comprehensive mechanical properties of RRFC with rubber particle size of 1–3 mm, PVA fiber content of 1.2 kg·m−3 and rice husk ash content of 15% are the best. The compressive strength of the specimens after dry–wet cycles in different environments generally increased first and then decreased, reaching a peak at the seventh dry–wet cycle, and the compressive strength of the specimens under chloride salt solution decreased more than that under clear water solution. Thes provided new concrete materials for the construction of highways and tunnels in coastal areas. Under the premise of ensuring the strength and durability of concrete, it is of great practical significance to explore new roads for energy conservation and emission reduction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: The protozoan Haemoproteus belongs to the Phylum Apicomplexa, Class Sporozoa, and Order Haemosporina. Avian haemosporidian are protozoan parasites that use birds as hosts around the world. Many species of wild and domestic doves are natural hosts of different species of Haemoproteus. Blood-sucking arthropods are the main vectors of these blood parasites. OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study was the microscopic and molecular investigation of the protozoan Haemoproteus columbae in the blood of infected pigeons in Torkaman County, Iran. METHODS: Blood samples and tubes containing ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) anticoagulant were collected from 96 domestic pigeons randomly from 14 pigeon lofts and different parts of Torkaman County. Pigeons were also inspected for infection with the host-vector Pseudolynchia canariensis. In the next step, blood smears were stained with Giemsa and examined microscopically. Also, blood tubes containing EDTA were tested by PCR method on the cytochrome b gene. RESULTS: Microscopic and molecular examination of peripheral blood showed that 62 (64.58 %) and 73 (76.04 %) of the investigated pigeons were contaminated, respectively. Of the 62 infected pigeons infected with the Haemoproteus, 28 pigeons (66.66 %) were male, and 34 (62.96 %) were female. Also, the infestation with Pseudolynchia canariensis was observed in 4 (28.57 %) pigeon lofts. CONCLUSIONS: The preliminary investigation shows the high rate of Haemoproteus infection in pigeons in Torkaman County. Further studies to determine the prevalence and accurate identification of the species infecting pigeons in this region require PCR testing and sequencing of infected blood samples. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Endoscopes are increasingly being used in middle ear surgery as an adjunct to or replacement for the operative microscope. The superior visualization of hidden areas and a minimally invasive transcanal approach to the pathology are some of the endoscope's advantages. The aim of this review is to compare the surgical outcomes of a totally endoscopic transcanal approach with a conventional microscopic approach for type 1 tympanoplasty in patients with chronic otitis media (COM) in order to establish if endoscopic myringoplasty (EM) could be a better alternative to microscopic myringoplasty (MM). A literature review was performed using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis recommendations. The selected articles were identified by searching PubMed Central, PubMed, MEDLINE and Embase databases for the relevant publications. Only studies where the same surgeon in the department performed both endoscopic and microscopic myringoplasty have been included in the review. The results suggest that with an endoscopic approach, minimally invasive myringoplasty can be achieved with a similar graft success rate and postoperative air–bone gap (ABG) improvement, a shorter operative time and less postoperative complications compared to a microscopic approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Aiming at the problem that it is difficult to quantify the microscopic remaining oil distribution in reservoirs, this study elucidates the principle and method of microscopic remaining oil quantitative characterization experiment. The experimental scheme is designed on the basis of the main controlling factors of remaining oil. The multi-information fusion of micro-CT scanning, electron microscopy scanning, QEMScan scanning and core displacement improves the recognition accuracy of pore space from micron level to nanometer level, and realizes the quantitative extraction of micro pores of clay cement. A new high-precision quantitative characterization method based on high-precision identification of pores and micro classification of remaining oil is developed, which accurately divides the reservoir spaces such as pores, oil and water in the reservoir, subdivides the micro remaining oil into six occurrence types, realizes the quantitative characterization of micro remaining oil in different types of reservoirs. Taking the complex fault block lithologie-structural reservoir in the south of Dawangzhuang Oilfield in Raoyang Sag as an example, it points out the direction for the comprehensive adjustment and management of the reservoir. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Otologic surgeries previously used microscopes, requiring large incisions. Recent advances in medical optical resolutiosn allows the introduction of the otologic endoscope as a less invasive alternative, providing better visualization and accessibility. Endoscopic surgery is now preferred for type 1 tympanoplasty and cholesteatoma treatment. Objectives: This study aims to compare the outcomes between patients who underwent endoscopic tympanoplasty and those who underwent microscopic tympanoplasty without ossiculoplasty or mastoidectomy. Methods: We retrospectively examined the data of 191 patients (201 ears) who underwent tympanoplasty without ossiculoplasty or mastoidectomy using either an endoscope or a microscope in the Department of Otolaryngology, Tungs’ Taichung MetroHarbor Hospital, Taichung, Taiwan, from July 1, 2014 to June 30, 2019. We compared the surgical and functional outcomes between the two approaches. We also analyzed the relationship between the two approaches and the size of the perforated tympanic membrane. Results: Endoscopic and microscopic tympanoplasties were performed in 67 and 134 ears, respectively. The preoperative pure tone average or air-bone gap values between the two groups were not statistically significant. The tympanic membrane healing rates for the four subgroups were classified according to the perforation size (Q1 : ≤ 25%, Q2 : > 25% & ≤ 50%, Q3 : > 50% & ≤ 75%, and Q4 : > 75% & ≤ 100%) were 90.9%, 94.1%, 95.0%, and 87.5% (P = 0.893), respectively, for the endoscopic group, and 97.0%, 86.4%, 97.1%, and 72.7% (P = 0.011), respectively, for the microscopic group. The postoperative improvement in the air-bone gap and pure tone average values between the two groups was not statistically significant. When considering the perforation size, the improvement in air-bone gap values was significantly different among the endoscopic groups (−1.0, −11.1, −3.9, and −7.8 dB, P = 0.002 for Q1, Q2, Q3 and Q4, respectively). Additionally, the procedure was markedly shorter in cases that underwent endoscopic surgeries for tympanic membrane perforation size of

Background and Aims: The preponderance of microscopic colitis (MC) in females may be associated with postmenopausal increased risk of atherosclerosis. The aim of this study was to describe the prevalence of atherosclerotic diseases in adults with MC. Methods: Retrospective observational study of patients with a diagnosis of MC or incomplete MC at our institution from 2008 to 2018. We performed a chart review and extracted data on demographics, comorbidities, medications, diagnosis, imaging, and endoscopy. Data were analyzed descriptively. Logistic regression was used to estimate the unadjusted effects of different variables on MC. Results: Of 269 patients, 265 had a MC diagnosis; 236 (89.06%) had collagenous colitis or lymphocytic colitis; and 29 (10.94%) were diagnosed with incomplete MC. Majority were female (79.55%), ≥ 65 years (59.11%), and white (88.81%). Majority had the following risk factors for atherosclerosis, smoking (52.04%), hypertension (58.21%), and hyperlipidemia (59.5%). The prevalence of coronary artery disease (CAD), peripheral artery disease (PAD), and cerebrovascular disease (CVD) was 16.79% (12.32, 21.27), 8.58% (5.23–11.94), and 7.49% (4.33–10.65), respectively. There was no difference in the prevalence of CAD and CVD after adjusting for sex. Females with MC had reduced odds of PAD compared with males. Conclusion: The prevalence of CAD, PAD, and CVD was 16.79%, 8.58%, and 7.49%, respectively. Similar to the general population, smoking, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia are risk factors for atherosclerosis in MC.

World Health Organization (WHO) reported that over 1.5 billion people are infected by soil-transmitted helminths (STH) worldwide in sub-Saharan Africa, the United States of America, China, and East Asia. Heavy infections and polyparasitism are associated with higher morbidity rates, and the patients are exposed to increased vulnerability to other diseases. Therefore, accurate diagnosis followed by mass treatment for morbidity control is necessary.STH diagnosis commonly involves the microscopic observation of the presence of the STH eggs and larvae in the faecal samples. Furthermore, molecular approaches are increasingly utilised in monitoring and surveillance as they show higher sensitivity. Their capability to differentiate hookworm species is an advantage over the Kato-Katz technique. This review discusses the advantages and limitations of microscopy and various molecular tools used for STH detection.

According to World Health Organization data about 2 m. patients with parasitic diseases are recorded in Russia yearly. It is known that the intestinal parasites render the expressed influence on the macroorganism, in particular they lower and depress the forming of immunity. It is proved the role of some helminthiases and parasitic protozoa (giardiasis, cryptosporidiosis) in the development of dysbiosis, which is one of the important factors, that influences the development of many illnesses, especially those which have chronic course. In connection with this, special urgency acquires widespread parasitic protozoa, caused by parasitism of simplest Blastocystis hominis in the thick bowels. It is established that invasion of B. hominis is accompanied by the dysbiosis of bowels. B. hominis are revealed with chronic dermatitis and diarrhea.The problem of Blastocystosis has become especially urgent in connection with the sharp increase of AIDS infected, since B. hominis can cause chronic diseases of digestive system. In the formulation of diagnosis of Blastocystosis the leading part plays the detection of B. hominis in faces by microscopic and cultural method. Unfortunately, the existing methods have a number of drawbacks: low sensitivity of microscopy with painting, the duration of cultural diagnostics. At the same time the diagnostics of Blastocystosis is hindered by the abundance of various B. hominis morphological forms. In connection with this there is a need for the contemporary highly sensitive methods of laboratory diagnostics of parasitic protozoa.

The activity of pedestrian movement can be predicted by a pedestrian model. Pedestrian model would assign pedestrian lane characteristic, especially for capacity. This study is intended as an effort to develop basic capacity on pedestrian pathways in Indonesia with simulation models. The function of the sidewalk was not only a connecting path between regions in the commercial area but also has a higher level of complexity due to diverse pedestrian motives. This study used a microscopic approach through model simulation that built-in PTV Viswalk as a supporting system to do it. Location of study in Jalan Malioboro in Yogyakarta, Indonesia. This study resulted that the default value coefficient about the pedestrian characteristic model needs to change and pedestrian speed was a key to giving a new value. Then, validation for simulation is given with local and global validation. It resulted that new value makes similar value with real data which could reach basic capacity. Then, basic capacity does with Viswalk simulation and reaches 365,42 pedestrian/meter/minute as a basic pedestrian lane in Yogyakarta, Indonesia. This study makes a starting point to reach the developing standard for pedestrian traffic in Indonesia.

Abstract Background: Ticks are obligate blood sucking ectoparasites of vertebrates that have an impact on both domestic and wild animals, especially in tropical and subtropical areas. Aim: The objective of the present study is to compare the prevalence and the tick species in both Al Gabal al Akhder regions in northeastern Libya and Ismailia, Egypt. Methods: Tick specimens collected from predilection sites on the hosts were identified by morphological (light microscopy) and molecular methods. Results: In Ismailia, Egypt, 23.9 % of the 230 (examined cattle and buffaloes) were infested with one species of hard ticks, Rhipicephalus annulatus. In the Libyan province of Al Gabal al Akhdar, the prevalence of tick infestation in cattle, (sheep and goats) was 47% and 59% respectively. Rhipicephalus annulatus is the identified tick species for cattle, Hyalomma marginatum, and R. bursa, are the identified tick species of the infested sheep, and goats. Conclusion: The 16S rDNA gene sequencing and phylogenetic analysis of sample species from Egypt and Libya proved instrumental in overcoming the difficulties associated with morphological identification techniques. [Open Vet J 2022; 12(6.000): 985-994]

Plankton monitoring by microscopy offers a long-term ecological perspective of plankton communities, but detection approaches are uniquely biased. Genetic identification of marine plankton has become standard but is still not used in routine monitoring. This study assesses the value that genetic methods bring to microscopic and flow cytometry monitoring methods in the Western (English) Channel. An 18S high throughput sequencing (HTS) diversity survey of plankton taxa was performed on samples collected from an automated Water and Microplankton Sampler (WaMS) deployed on the Continuous Plankton Recorder platform (CPR) from 2011–2012. This survey detected contrasting but complementary taxa assemblages to that of microscopic surveys, mostly composed of smaller or naked or thin-walled plankton taxa, with most phytoplankton being under 10 µm infrequently recorded by other surveys. Most genetically-detected taxa in the survey were mixotrophic or heterotrophic. In comparison with microscopic phytoplankton counts from the CPR survey and Western Channel Observatory station L4, only 8–12 taxonomic families were common to all three surveys, most of them dinoflagellates, with a bias towards larger diatoms and dinoflagellate taxa in microscopy surveys. Additional quantitative real-time PCR detection of two potentially harmful taxa, the pelagophyte, Aureococcus anophagefferens and four Pseudo-nitzschia from 2011–2013. This revealed that growth of A. anophagefferens was elevated in the summer of 2011, whilst the appearance of Pseudo-nitzschia delicatissima in February of that year contrasted with it's timing at a coastal station. Smaller phytoplankton measured by flow cytometry had distinct seasonality and abundance in the mid-Atlantic compared to coastal regions reflecting distinct conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The advent of Endoscopic Ear Surgery (EES) has allowed otologists an improved view of the surgical field compared with conventional Microscopic Ear Surgery (MES). EES presents different challenges for surgeons and a learning curve is necessary. The purpose of this study was to compare the efficacy of EES and MES for trans-canal tragal cartilage myringoplasty, an entry level EES. We retrospectively analysed patients who underwent push through trans-canal tragal cartilage myringoplasty in our institution over 5 years (2016–2020). Exclusion criteria were: patients with prior ear surgery, non-tragal cartilage tympanic membrane graft, additional procedure at time of surgery and patients with insufficient follow up. EES and MES groups were compared using outcomes such as graft success rate, changes in pure tone audiometry (PTA), operative time and complications. Seventy-four patients met inclusion criteria (MES = 38, EES = 36). Mean age of included patients was 29.3 years with no significant demographic differences between groups. Graft success rate at 12 months was higher among the EES group versus MES (94.4% v 86.8%, p = 0.43). Mean operative time was reduced in the EES group (47.3 min v 53.8 min, p = 0.04). Hearing outcomes did not differ significantly between groups. No major operative complications occurred in either group. Outcomes were marginally better in the cohort who underwent EES. This supports that EES offers an otologic choice to complement established practice for trans-canal myringoplasty and may be used to facilitate introduction to EES for trainees and otologists wishing to learn this technique. • Graft uptake was similar between endoscopic and microscopic myringoplasty. • Endoscopic myringoplasty had a shorter mean operative time. • Both approaches are a suitable otologic choice for myringoplasty. • Myringoplasty is an excellent entry level procedure for endoscopic ear surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background & Aims: Leptospirosis is a common infectious disease between humans and animals, which is of particular importance in terms of global spread. The cause of the disease is Leptospira bacteria. This bacterium is gram-negative and spiral-shaped and belongs to the Leptospiraceae family and the Spirochetes branch (1,2). The genus Leptospira is divided into 20 species (9 pathogenic, 5 intermediate and 6 saprophytic) based on phylogenic and DNA analysis. Saprophytic species (eg L. biflex). Leptospira species cause a common disease called leptospirosis. Leptospira settle in the kidney tubules of animals (susceptible mammals) and because of this the host animals remain infected for a long time and expel the bacteria (7). Livestock (cows and sheep) are sources of leptospirosis and should be taken care of to prevent transmission of the disease to humans (8,9). Leptospira species remain in the environment for a long time, transfer to humans through damaged skin and mucous membranes, mortality and economic losses are considered as an important global health issue (2,7,10). Every year, half a million cases of leptospirosis (45 cases per 100,000 people) are reported worldwide (11). Leptospirosis is more common in hot seasons and in tropical and rainy regions of the world (11,12). The incubation period of leptospirosis in humans is about 10 days and may be asymptomatic (12). The clinical face of this disease is so variable that it is considered as a disease with a thousand faces and it can never be diagnosed based on clinical signs and symptoms alone, so diagnosis is more based on trusting the laboratory in showing and observing the cause of the disease. And the accuracy of laboratory methods is stable. Definitive diagnosis of leptospirosis is based on laboratory tests such as bacterial culture, ELISA test, MAT and PCR (16), which is the standard serological method for identifying leptospirosis antibodies according to the World Health Organization (WHO) Microscopic agglutination test (MAT), which is a method It is cheap with acceptable sensitivity and it is possible to access it (17) and it shows the wide presence of Leptospira in the world (16). Bacteremia develops within 7-10 days after symptoms of infection by Leptospira and antibodies can be detected in the blood (18,19). The aim of the present study was to investigate leptospirosis seroepidemiologically among the farmers of Kohdasht in Lorestan province by microscopic agglutination method (MAT) and also to determine and obtain the serovars infecting people in Kohdasht region. The results obtained from the present research can provide a lot of help to researchers in medical and veterinary sciences of the country, and it is also very useful in human and animal health and rapid diagnosis and treatment of patients. Methods: The study was conducted on the blood samples of 200 cattle farmers of Kohdasht in February 2013. After selecting the livestock farms, he went to the livestock farm and took 10 cc of blood samples from the hand veins of the people who were active in livestock farming. After the complete collection of samples, microscopic agglutination test (MAT) and measurement of serum contamination were performed to determine the contamination of serum samples with Leptospira serovars on blood serum samples. The results obtained from the MAT method were analyzed with SPSS software (Version 16) through Chi-square and Fisher's test. P<0.01 was considered as significant difference. Results: 48 serum samples (24%) were positive among 200 tested sera at the 1:100 dilution. Serum samples were shown positive reaction with two L. Grippotyphosa and L. canicola serovars. The prevalence of Grippotyphosa 66.67% and Canicola 33.33% were resulted by MAT. 31 samples (64.58%) were related to males and 17 cases (35.42%) females among 60 positive samples. The highest prevalence of Leptospira serovars was founded in more than 50 years group with 16 cases. P. value based on gender was 0.01. (p<0.01). Conclusion: Leptospira pathogenic species can survive for a long time under suitable environmental conditions (humidity and temperature). Domestic animals (cows, sheep and dogs) are considered important as hosts of this bacterium in the spread of leptospirosis and play a significant role (20). Leptospira is released into the environment through the urine of animals. Human infection with leptospirosis is caused by contact with the urine of infected animals (21). Diagnosis of leptospirosis is difficult for many doctors, and its definitive diagnosis is possible with laboratory methods. The MAT method is universally used as a reference test for the diagnosis of leptospirosis. In the present study, the prevalence of leptospirosis among farmers in Kohdasht was 24%, and the serovars Gripotiphosa and Canicula had the highest prevalence, respectively. The P value of p<0.01 was significant for gender and showed that leptospiral infection is different according to gender. All over the world, studies on the prevalence of leptospirosis have been carried out. In Iran, in 2004, the prevalence of leptospirosis in Gilan University Hospital was reported by Honarmand et al. to be 24.6% (22). In 2016, in a serological study of leptospiral infection of sheep using the MAT method in Ahvaz, Hajikolaei et al. reported the occurrence of 14.9% leptospirosis and the highest number of leptospirosis serovars was related to Pomona with 14 cases (43.8%), respectively. canicula with 7 cases (21.9%) and ictrohemorrhage with 4 cases (14.5%) (23). This study showed that transmission of leptospirosis is carried out by sheep as hosts, so livestock farmers are prone to leptospirosis. A study was conducted on dairy cows in Hamedan industrial farms in 2009 by Bahari et al., out of 80 blood samples, 18 were positive for Leptospira and the highest serovar prevalence was Canicula (21.25%) (24). This study is another proof of the susceptibility of livestock farmers to leptospirosis. In 2008, Agampodi et al. conducted a study on 404 patients with fever in Sri Lanka using the MAT method, of which 155 patients were found to have leptospirosis. In this study, the prevalence of serovars Pyrogenesis (28.7%) and Hardjo (18.8%) was reported (25). In 2012, Ngbede et al. conducted a study in Nigeria using the MAT method on 142 blood samples of cows slaughtered in a slaughterhouse, and 5 samples were found to have antibodies against Hardjo serovar (26). Goris et al. in 2013 in the Netherlands in a study they conducted on sick people concluded that serovars Ictrohemorrhagia, Hardjo, and Gripotyphosa cause severe leptospirosis in humans (27). In 2014, Dreyfus et al. used the MAT method to investigate the risk factors of leptospirosis among 567 slaughterhouse workers in New Zealand. They found that 11% of the workers had antibodies against Hardjo and Pomona serovars in their blood serum (28). Leptospirosis is related to occupation and environment (29). Floods and inundation as well as contact with animal waste are the most important factors of leptospirosis infection (30). Leptospirosis may lead to failure of liver, kidney and many organs of the body. In general, leptospirosis is spreading, so disease control should be considered. it is concluded that livestock farmers are one of the groups at risk of leptospirosis due to the presence of different leptospira serovars in animals. Livestock farmers can prevent the occurrence of leptospiral infection by controlling their safety and health. The results of this study are very useful in the research of medical and veterinary sciences as well as human and animal health and rapid diagnosis and treatment of patients and provide a lot of information to researchers in disease control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Microscopic unilateral laminotomy for bilateral decompression (ULBD) is a minimally invasive technique used in the treatment of lumbar spinal stenosis and could limit spinal instability and be associated with better clinical outcomes. However, there is ongoing debate regarding its utility compared to conventional laminectomy (CL). The primary objective was to collate and describe the current evidence base for ULBD, including perioperative parameters, functional outcomes, and complications. The secondary objective was to identify operative techniques. Methods: A scoping review was conducted between January 1990 and August 2022 according to the PRISMA extension for scoping reviews (PRISMA-ScR) guidelines. Major databases were searched for full text English articles reporting on outcomes following microscopic unilateral laminotomy in patients with lumbar spinal stenosis. Results: Seventeen articles met the inclusion criteria. Two studies were randomised controlled trials. Two studies were prospective data collection and the rest were retrospective analysis. Three studies compared ULBD with CL. ULBD preserves the osteoligamentous complex and may be associated with shorter operative time, less blood loss, and similar clinical outcomes when compared to CL. Conclusion: This review highlights that ULBD aims to minimise disruption to the normal posterior spinal anatomy and may have acceptable clinical outcomes. It also highlights that it is difficult to draw valid conclusions given there are limited data available as most studies identified were retrospective or did not have a comparator group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: The aim of this study was to compare the incidence of chorda tympani nerve (CTN) injury between endoscopic and microscopic stapes surgery. Methods: This randomized controlled clinical trial included 88 patients who were randomly divided into two groups: endoscopic stapedotomy group (n = 44) and microscopic stapedotomy group (n = 44). The incidence of chorda tympani nerve (CTN) injury after surgery was determined by both subjective taste testing and chemical taste tests, before and after surgery. The results were compared between the two groups. Results: The total number of patients who were identified as having CTN affection (based on the chemical testing) was 16 out of 88 (18.2%). The incidence was significantly lower in the endoscopic group (n = 2) than the microscopic group (n = 14) (p = 0.019). Conclusion: Altered taste as a result of iatrogenic CTN injury can affect the patients' quality of life. Endoscopic ear surgery offers better visualization, less need for extensive manipulation of the chorda tympani, and consequently decreased incidence of CTN injury. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The goal of the present study was to compare the audiologic results, complications, and advantages/disadvantages of endoscopic and microscopic stapedotomy. Methods: Patients who experienced stapedotomy surgery in the Ear Nose Throat Clinic (ENT) of Selcuk University Faculty of Medicine between September 2011 and January 2018 were included in the study. The data of all patients were analyzed and divided into two groups. Those who underwent endoscopic stapedotomy were included in group I, and patients who underwent microscopic stapedotomy formed group II. Surgical findings, complications, and operation times were compared for the two groups. Air and bone conduction thresholds were evaluated at the frequencies of 500, 1000, 2000, and 4000 Hz pre- and postoperatively at 1, 3, and 6 months, and the mean (± SD) air–bone gap value was recorded. Results: While the mean pre- and postoperative air-bone gaps were 34.38 ± 7.47 dB (23–53 dB) and 9.69 ± 4.43 dB (0–19 dB), respectively, in group I, 34.32 ± 7.57 dB (23–6 dB) and 9.62 ± 4.25 dB (2–23 dB) were the respective means calculated in group II (p < 0.05). When the mean postoperative air–bone gap was compared, there was no statistically significant difference between the two groups (p = 0.774). The mean operative times for groups I and II were 57.22 ± 4.37 min and 63.70 ± 7.34 min, respectively (p < 0.001). The requirement for chorda tympani nerve manipulation and scutum curettage was significantly less in group I compared to group II (p = 0.003). Postoperative dysgeusia and postoperative pain were found to be higher in group II than group I, but they were not statistically significant (p > 0.05). Conclusion: Endoscopic stapedotomy displayed similar audiological results, shorter operation times, and similar complication rates, as well as being a less invasive surgery, compared to the microscopic approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An analysis of the measured macroscopic withinwafer variations for threshold voltage (Vth) and on-current (Ion) over several technology generations (180 nm, 100 nm and 65 nm) is reported. It is verified that the dominant microscopic variations of the MOSFET device can be extracted quantitatively from these macroscopic variation data by applying the surface-potential compact model Hiroshima University STARC IGFET model 2 (HiSIM2), which is presently brought into industrial application. Only a small number of microscopic parameters, representing substrate doping (NSUBC), pocket-implantation doping (NSUBP), carrier-mobility degradation due to gate-interface roughness (MUESR1) and channel-length variation during the gate formation (XLD) are found sufficient to quantitatively reproduce the measured macroscopic within-wafer variations of Vth and Ion for all channel length Lg and all technology generations. Quantitative improvements from 180 nm to 65 nm are confirmed to be quite large for MUESR1 (about 70%) and Lmin(XLD) (55%) variations, related to the gate-oxide interface and the gate-stack structuring, respectively. On the other hand, doping-related technology advances, which are reflected by the variation magnitudes of NSUBC (30%) and NSUBP (25%), are found to be considerably smaller. Furthermore, specific combinations of extreme microscopic parameter-variation values are able to represent the boundaries of macroscopic fabrication inaccuracies for Vth and Ion. These combinations are found to remain identical, not only for all Lg of a given technology node, but also for all investigated technologies with minimum Lg of 180 nm, 100 nm and 65 nm.

Background and Aim: Hemotropic Mycoplasmas are small epierythrocytic bacteria that cause infectious anemia in several livestock species and in humans. Several reports have been made on hemoplasma infections in the south and north of Iraq, but there have been no studies in the middle Euphrates of Iraq. This study aimed to evaluate the presence of hemoplasma species in cattle in Al-Qadisiyah Province, Iraq. Materials and Methods: Two hundred blood samples were collected from cattle with pale mucous membrane from regions with heavy tick endemicity. The samples were analyzed for the presence of Rickettsia pathogens using thin blood smears and the Diff-Quik stains. All the samples were also examined using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) to amplify the 16S ribosomal ribonucleic acid (rRNA) gene to confirm the presence of the smear-identified microorganisms. Ten PCR positive samples were subjected to 16S rRNA partial gene sequencing to identify the species. Results: The findings uncovered positivity in 68 (34%) blood smears. PCR revealed positive confirmation in 18 (9%) of the 200 blood samples. Mycoplasma wenyonii and Candidatus mycoplasma hemobos were identified from 10 PCR positive samples. The nucleotide sequences of the isolates were closely related to isolates from cattle, buffalo, and dogs in Vietnam, Cuba, India, and Germany. Conclusion: Bovine hemoplasma infections are prevalent in cattle in the Al-Qadisiyah Province in Iraq. Our results may have significance for the development of control programs.

Background: The microscope is the conventional method used by ear surgeons to view the middle ear structures, allowing for binocular vision and the freedom of both hands. Its main disadvantage is the need for an unobstructed, direct view of the operating area. The end-aural incision, drilling of the bony auditory canal, and regular repositioning of the patient and the surgeon are a few examples of how the operation has to adapt to the microscope. Nevertheless, the microscope has proven itself as the tool of choice in stapes surgery with reliable outcomes. Objective: to compare endoscopic and microscopic interventions in stapes surgery regarding intraoperative and post-operative outcomes. Patients and Methods: The review was a meta analytic & systematic review that included randomized controlled trials (RCT), case series and retrospective studies which studied the comparison of microscopic and endoscopic stapes surgery, 15 articles published between 2014 and 2020 were included in our study. Data Sources: Medline databases (PubMed, Medscape, ScienceDirect. EMF-Portal) and all materials available in the Internet till 2020. Results: Our results showed that the injury to the chorda tympani nerve was significantly higher in microscopic vs endoscopic groups. And also as regard the operative times, it was significant longer in microscopic vs. endoscopic groups. But there is no significant difference as regarde pain, dizziness, perforation of tympanic membrane, delayed conductive hearing & post-operative Airbone gap improvement and taste disturbance between both groups. Conclusion: Endoscopic stapes surgeries are technically feasible, safe and promising. Overall, our study indicates endoscopic and microscopic stapes surgery has similar audiological success, with some data suggesting a lower risk of chorda tympani injury and postoperative taste disturbance with the endoscope. Endoscopic stapes surgery appears to be a reasonable alternative to microscopic stapes surgery, with similar complications (chorda tympani nerve injury, pain, Perforation of tympanic membrane, taste disturbance, Dizziness, and delayed conductive hearing). Shorter operative times shorter and lower postoperative air-bone gap were found in endoscopic stapes surgery. Superior visibility with the endoscope was consistently reported in all the studies. This meta-analysis of the current evidence supports the use of endoscopic techniques for stapes surgery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Maintaining a nutritious diet is essential for humans if they want to live a healthier life. Several food businesses and food safety organizations play a significant role and offer useful ways for improving nutritional quality that assists consumers in making informed selections. Making poor food choices and consuming unhealthy meals are the main causes of non-communicable diseases (NCDs). Nutritional profiling (NP) models are developed to evaluate the nutritional value, calorie content, and the amount of micronutrients and macronutrients contained in a given food accompanied by additional details on the nutritional anomaly provided by published standard nutrients and nutritional databases. To construct an ideal nutritional model that can facilitate food consumption, bioanalytical methods such as chromatography, microscopic techniques, molecular assays, and metabolomics can be applied. With the use of these technologies, one can learn more about the health advantages of nutrition and how to prevent disease. A wider element of NP is also provided by the developing technologies in the area of nutrition research, such as nanotechnology, proteomics, and microarray technology. In this review, we are focusing on the different bioanalytical techniques and the various protocols of NP and their application and refinement of the models. We have evaluated various NP techniques currently used in the food industry for the detection of different components present in food items.

One trend in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine is the development of degradable composite polymers. The aim of this study was the comprehensive analysis of Polylactic acid (PLA)/Polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB) + Hydroxyapatite (HA)/Tricalcium phosphate (TCP) material from filament production to mechanical testing of samples with different infills and the production of an implant replacement for an intervertebral disc. Filament Maker—Composer 450 (3devo; Netherlands) was used to produce filaments. Experimental samples and the implant for the intervertebral disc were made using FDM technology using a DeltiQ2 3D printer (Trilab, Czech Republic). Mechanical testing of experimental samples was performed on an Inspekt TABLE 5 kN (Hegewald & Peschke, Nossen, Germany). Microscopic analysis, cytotoxicity test, and filament diameter analysis using descriptive statistics were also part of the focus. The results of the analysis of the diameter of the filament show that the filament meets the prescribed standard. The cytotoxicity test for PLA/PHB + HA/TCP material showed no toxicity. Microscopic analysis showed an even distribution of the ceramic component in the composite polymer. Mechanical testing showed a reduction in mechanical properties with 75% and 50% of the filling of experimental samples. All experimental samples subjected to mechanical testing showed higher tensile and compressive strength values compared to the values of the mechanical properties of vertebral trabecular bones, as reported in the literature. It can therefore be concluded that the material under investigation, PLA/PHB + HA/TCP appears to be a suitable candidate for hard tissue replacement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Full-endoscopic spine surgery for degenerative lumbar diseases is growing in popularity and has shown favourable outcomes. Lumbar endoscopic unilateral laminotomy for bilateral decompression (LE-ULBD) has been used to treat lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS). However, studies comparing LE-ULBD to microscopic ULBD are lacking. This study compared the clinical efficacy and radiological outcomes between the LE-ULBD and microscopic ULBD.Methods: The study retrospectively enrolled patients undergoing either LE-ULBD or microscopic ULBD for spinal stenosis at the L4-L5 level. The demographic data, operative details, radiological images, clinical outcomes, and complications of patients from the two groups were compared through matched-pairs analysis. The minimum follow-up duration was 24 months.Results: There were 93 patients undergoing either LE-ULBD (n = 42) or microscopic ULBD (n = 51). The patient demographics were similar between the two groups. The LE-ULBD group had significantly less estimated blood loss, less analgesic use, and shorter hospitalization duration (P < .05). The endoscopic group had a significantly lower visual analog scale for back pain at all follow-up intervals compared with the microscopic group (P < .05). There were no significant differences in leg pain or Oswestry Disability Index. The cross-section area of the spinal canal was significantly wider after microscopic ULBD. There were no significant differences in post-operative degenerative changes in disc height, translational motion, or facet preservation rate.Conclusions: LE-ULBD is comparable in clinical and radiological outcomes with enhanced recovery for single-level LSS. The endoscopic approach might further minimize tissue injury and enhance post-operative recovery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Ticks are obligate blood-sucking ectoparasites of vertebrates that have an impact on both domestic and wild animals, especially in tropical and subtropical areas. Aim: The objective of this study is to compare the prevalence and the tick species in both Al Gabal Al Akhder regions in northeastern Libya and Ismailia, Egypt. Methods: Tick specimens collected from predilection sites on the hosts were identified by morphological (light microscopy) and molecular methods. Results: In Ismailia, Egypt, 23.9% of the 230 (examined cattle and buffaloes) were infested with one species of hard ticks, Rhipicephalus annulatus. In the Libyan province of Al Gabal Al Akhdar, the prevalence of tick infestation in cattle, sheep, and goats, was 47% and 59%, respectively. R. annulatus is the identified tick species for cattle, Hyalomma marginatum, and Rhipicephalus bursa, are the identified tick species of the infested sheep and goats. Conclusion: The 16S rDNA gene sequencing and phylogenetic analysis of sample species from Egypt and Libya proved instrumental in overcoming the difficulties associated with morphological identification techniques. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present in situ calorimetry, thermal conductivity, and thermal diffusivity measurements of materials using temperature-sensing optical wireless integrated circuits (OWiCs). These microscopic and untethered optical sensors eliminate input wires and reduce parasitic effects. Each OWiC has a mass of ∼100 ng, a 100-μm-scale footprint, and a thermal response time of microseconds. We demonstrate that they can measure the thermal properties of nearly any material, from aerogels to metals, on samples as small as 100 ng and over thermal diffusivities covering four orders of magnitude. They also function over a broad temperature range, and we present proof-of-concept measurements of the thermodynamic phase transitions in both liquid crystal 5CB and gadolinium. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The results of studies of chemical, x-ray phase, microscopic, electron microscopic, and granulometric analyses as well as the technological properties of quartz sand from the Tamdin deposit are reported. It was established that this quartz sand can be used in industrial enterprises of Uzbekistan as a promising source of high-quality raw materials for the production of glass and glass-ceramic materials for technical, household, and construction purposes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Context: Pharmacognostical standardization of crude drugs is essential before carrying out its scientific validation as it furnishes the identity and authenticity of the plant. The present work was undertaken to establish the macroscopic, microscopical evaluation and HPTLC densitometric analysis of selected Indian medicinal plants and polyherbal mixture. Aims: To explore the pharmacognostical and quantitative estimation of chemical markers lupeol, rutin and shatavarin IV in polyherbal formulation using HPTLC analysis. Methods: Pharmacognostical features were studied by the macroscopic and microscopical analysis were done. High-performance thin-layer chromatography was performed to evaluate the presence of lupeol, rutin and shatavarin IV in n-hexane:ethyl acetate (6:4 v/v), ethyl acetate:acetic acid:formic acid; methanol (10:1.1:1.1:2.6 v/v) and chloroform:acetic acid:water:methanol (5:3.5:1.5:1 v/v) for lupeol, rutin and shatavarin IV, respectively. Results: The Rf values for lupeol (0.90), rutin (0.36) and shatavarin IV (0.89) in samples and reference standard were found comparable under UV light at 550, 254 and 429 nm, respectively. The quantified values of lupeol, rutin and shatavarin IV (0.067, 0.053 and 0.048 ng/g, respectively) in the polyherbal formulation were detected using HPTLC analysis. The high-performance thin-layer chromatography method developed for quantization was simple, accurate and specific. Conclusions: The present study provides useful information about plant characters and standardization of specific and accurate tools to develop quantifications for identity, transparency and reproducibility of chemical markers in polyherbal formulation.

Rubber activation provides a feasible approach for the preparation of high-content rubber modified asphalt without increasing the complexity of the production process. The electromagnetic thermal activation method was used for crumb rubber. The high dosage (30 % mass ratio of neat asphalt) activated crumb rubber and SBS (1.2 % mass ratio of neat asphalt) modified asphalt (ARMA) was prepared. The neat asphalt (NA) and 20 % non-activated crumb rubber modified asphalt (RMA) constituted the control group. Storage stability, rheological behavior, and microscopic properties tests were conducted to evaluate the performance differences of them. The rheological behavior of RMA and ARMA was superior to NA. The electromagnetic thermal activation method fragmented rubber particles into numerous disordered small particles, thereby expanded the contact area with asphalt. This resulted in the storage stability of ARMA significantly better than that of RMA. The cross-linked wrinkles were generated by the combined effect of SBS modifier and activated crumb rubber, which enhanced the rheological, anti-fatigue, and elastic behavior. Both RMA and ARMA exhibited high-temperature PG grades of 82˚C. At 70°C, ARMA retained the capability to endure Extremely Heavy Traffic Grade conditions. At a strain level of 2.5 %, ARMA exhibited a 178 % increase in fatigue life compared to RMA. The crumb rubber was dispersed within the RMA and ARMA. Both ARMA and RMA did not exhibit the obviously bee-structure. However, ARMA exhibited a stronger polymer network. Moreover, both the carbonyl index and sulfoxide index of ARMA were lower than those of RMA and NA. The activation process improved the compatibility between rubber and asphalt, and realized the high value utilization of waste rubber. • Rubber activation provides a feasible approach for the preparation of high-content rubber modified asphalt. • The electromagnetic thermal activation method was used for crumb rubber. • The high value utilization of waste rubber realized the development of green and sustainable transportation construction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Endoscopic endonasal surgery is the main transsphenoidal approach for pituitary surgery in many centers; however, few studies compare the endoscopic and microscopic surgical approaches with regard to long-term follow-up. This single-center study aimed to compare the 2 techniques over 15 years. Medical records and magnetic resonance images from 40 patients with primary transsphenoidal surgery for Cushing's disease at Sahlgrenska University Hospital between 2003 and 2018 were reviewed. 14 patients who underwent microscopic surgery and 26 patients who underwent endoscopic surgery were included in this study. In the microscopic group, 12 of 14 patients achieved endocrine remission, compared to 19 of 26 patients in the endoscopic group (n. s.). Three patients in each group developed a late recurrence. Complications were seen in 5 patients in the microscopic group and in 8 patients in the endoscopic group (n. s.). No serious complications, such as carotid artery damage, cerebrovascular fluid leakage, epistaxis, or meningitis, occurred in any group. The postoperative hospital stay was shorter in the endoscopic than in the microscopic group. Endoscopic endonasal surgery for Cushing's disease showed no difference in remission, recurrence, and complication rates compared to the microscopic approach. The endoscopic group had a shorter postoperative hospital stay than the microscopic group, which in part may be due to the minimal invasiveness of the endoscopic approach. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]