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Background: Ochna kirkii Oliv. belongs to family Ochnaceae is commonly known as "mickey mouse plants" in Asia, included in Jakarta. Objectives: This research was conducted to study the pharmacognosy and total phenolic content. Methods: The pharmacognosy study including the macroscopic, microscopic, fluorescence and phytochemical characteristic, which enable to identification of medicinal plant drug, as well as the total phenolic content using spectrophotometric method. Physicochemical parameters, like loss on drying, ash value, extractive values etc. were also determined following WHO guidelines. Results: Physicochemical standard quantified include total ash 5.15% ± 0.4623, acid insoluble ash 0.32% ± 0.2614, water soluble ash 10.72% ± 0.2340, alcohol soluble extractive 12.8% ± 1.3770, ether soluble extractive 7.30% ± 1.8341, water content 5.76% ± 0.0050, loss on drying 6.91% ± 1.6133. Preliminary phytochemical screening of the leaves showed the presence of flavonoids, tannins, phenols, saponins and triterpenoid. TLC profile of the O.kirkii leaves extracts (n-hexane, DCM, ethyl acetate and 70% ethanol) showed 8, 6, 7 and 10 spots respectively; in different solvent system. The total phenolic content was 252.08 mg GAE/g± 0.4430. Conclusions: The various macroscopic, microscopic, physical and phytochemical analysis of the O.kirkii leaf is useful in standardization for quality, purity and sample identification. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background This study compares endoscopic and microscopic tympanoplasty for the treatment of chronic otitis media (COM) without cholesteatoma. Methods This retrospective study included 153 ears (139 patients) treated surgically (endoscopic or microscopic tympanoplasty) for COM in the absence of cholesteatoma at our hospital between January 2008 and October 2015. The adoption of transcanal endoscopic ear surgery (TEES) or microscopic ear surgery (MES) was divided temporally (before and since 2014). Comparisons between these groups focused on the following: (I) surgical outcomes, including successful tympanic membrane healing and post-operative complications; (II) restoration of hearing; and (III) consumption of medical resources, including the duration of surgery and anesthesia. All patients had a follow-up period of at least 3 months after surgery. Results No statistically significant differences were observed between the two groups regarding surgical outcome or hearing restoration. TEES resulted in the successful healing of 96.2% of ear drums, whereas MES led to successful healing in 92% (p = 0.2826) of cases. The average hearing gains following surgery were 10.27 ± 6.4 and 12.43 ± 7.46 dB in TEES and MES, respectively. The consumption of medical resources in the TEES group was lower than that of the MES group (TEES versus MES) regarding the average operating time (87.8 ± 19.01 min (mins) versus 110.2 ± 17.0 (mins) (p

Background: Intraoperative low field MRI (iMRI, 0.15 T) during transsphenoidal surgery on pituitary adenomas (PAs) may significantly improve tumor removal. However, extensive surgery can lead to pituitary hormone deficiency. Furthermore, introduction of iMRI will prolong duration of surgery, which may elevate risk of postoperative infections. Methods: Overall, 180 transsphenoidal surgeries for PAs from 2007 to 2015 were included. IMRI was available from 2011 to 2015, during this period 67/78 (86%) surgeries were with iMRI (iMRI, n = 67). A total of 113 surgeries were performed without iMRI (controls). All surgical procedures were performed by microscopic technique. Tumor size, hormonal status and vision were assessed before surgery and 3–5 months postoperatively. Results: Gross total resection (GTR), mean tumor remnant volume and Δ-volumes were comparable between iMRI and controls: 15% (10/66) vs 23% (26/109) (P = 0.17), 2.97 cm3 (0.9–5) vs 2.1 cm3 (1.6–2.6) (P = 0.3) and 4.5 cm3 (3.6–5.5) vs 5.1 cm3 (4.2–6) (P = 0.4), respectively. Duration of surgery was significantly longer during iMRI vs controls: 126 min (117–135) vs 98 min (92–103) (P < 0.001). New pituitary–adrenal deficiency in iMRI vs controls was seen in 35% (17/48) and 35% (23/66) of surgeries, respectively (P = 0.95). New thyroid deficiency was found in 33% (13/29) and 41% (28/69) and visual field deficiencies improved in 44% (19/43) and 38% (23/60) in iMRI vs controls, respectively (P > 0.1). Conclusion: Tumor remnant after pituitary surgery was not significantly reduced using intraoperative low field MRI. Duration of surgery was increased in iMRI, but was not associated with increased infection rate. Pituitary hormonal function and vision were comparable between iMRI and controls.

Microscopic colitis (MC), which is comprised of lymphocytic colitis and collagenous colitis, is a clinicopathological diagnosis that is commonly encountered in clinical practice during the evaluation and management of chronic diarrhea. With an incidence approaching the incidence of inflammatory bowel disease, physician awareness is necessary, as diagnostic delays result in a poor quality of life and increased health care costs. The physician faces multiple challenges in the diagnosis and management of MC, as these patients frequently relapse after successful treatment. This review article outlines the risk factors associated with MC, the clinical presentation, diagnosis and histologic findings, as well as a proposed treatment algorithm. Prospective studies are required to better understand the natural history and to develop validated histologic endpoints that may be used as end points in future clinical trials and serve to guide patient management.

Introduction: The diagnosis of malaria is still limited according to the gold standard microscopy, so Rapid Diagnostic Test (RDT) examination is needed. This study evaluated the RDT diagnostic value compared to microscopic examination and PCR as the gold standard. Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted at the Regional Public Hospital of Merauke, Indonesia. Each specimen was examined by RDT using Standard Q Pf/Pv and Pan/Pf, and the gold standard by microscopic malaria using the Giemsa stain test and Nested PCR. Results: RDT Standard Q Pf/Pv compared to microscopy for detecting P. vivax was Sn:96.8%, Sp:97.6%, PPV:96.8%, and NPV:97.6% (Kappa:0.944), and for P. falciparum was Sn:88.9%, Sp:96.4%, PPV: 88.9%, and NPV: 96.4% (Kappa:0.853). RDT Standard Q Pf/Pan compared to microscopy for detecting P. falciparum was Sn:88.9%, Sp:96.4%, PPV: 88.9%, and NPV:96.4% (Kappa:0.853), and for non P. falciparum was Sn:90.5%, Sp:97.6%, PPV:96.6%, and NPV:93.1% (Kappa:0.887). Morever, RDT Standard Q Pf/Pv compared to Nested PCR for detecting P. vivax was Sn:92.5%, Sp:98.7%, PPV:98.4%, and NPV:94.0% (Kappa:0.917), and for P. falciparum was Sn:66.7%, Sp:97.9%, PPV: 94.4%, and NPV: 84.5% (Kappa:0.693). The sensitivity, specificity, PPV and NPV of the RDT Standard Q Pf/Pan compared to Nested PCR for detecting of P. falciparum infection were 66.7%, 97.9%, 94.4%, and 84.5%, respectively (Kappa:0.693). Whereas, the sensitivity and specificity for detecting non-P. falciparum infection were 86.6% and 98.7%, respectively, with PPV 98.3% and NPV 89.7% (Kappa:0.861). Conclusion: RDT showed good overall performance for detecting P. vivax but lower regarding sensitivity for detecting P. falciparum. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: One of the most popular plant and beverage is a Thea sinensis or Cameiiia sinensis (Theaceae) also known as Theae Folia or Green Tea. There are some reasons for it, such that the sensory properties, prices are relatively cheap, stimulant effects, and their potential health benefits. Motherland of this plant is considered the China. This is where people have paid attention to the ability of a decoction of the leaves have a tonic effect on the human body and the first to grow this plant. Tea folia as a medicine are made from unfermented tea leaves and young shoots. This process is fast in special drying machines. Objective: European Pharmacopoeia have monograph Green Tea and the herb that we know as a food drink have as medicine herb now. The objective of research of herbal medicine is the quality and safety of natural products. Materials and Methods: Macroscopical and microscopical features of the leaf and shoots have been analysis using an optical microscope. Phytochemical and physico-chemical analysis were evaluated. The observation of the spectrum profiles is done by interpreting the typical peak that appears. Results: Theae Folia have actinocytic stomata, unicellular trichomes, heterogenous mesophyll which is characterized by the presence of calcium oxalate crystals and sclereid cells. Phytochemical analysis indicated resources the presence of purine alkaloids caffeine and theabromine and many other drugs. The content of caffeine from Teae Folia ethanolic and water extract is differ to time. Conclusion: Pharmacognostic and phytochemicals features established in this study may be used as part of the pharmacopoeial standard, which can play an important role in its standardization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Compare intraoperative and postoperative outcomes of endoscopic and microscopic stapes surgery to provide objective evidence on whether the former is a better alternative than the latter.Methods: We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis for studies that compared endoscopic stapes surgery with microscopic stapes surgery. Only studies that met predetermined criteria were selected and assessed for bias and quality. Primary outcomes were postoperative air-bone gap (ABG) and chorda tympani nerve injury. Secondary outcomes were average operating time, tympanic membrane (TM) perforation, and postoperative taste disturbance, pain, and dizziness. We calculated pooled odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for dichotomous outcomes and weighted mean difference (WMD) with 95% CI for continuous outcomes. A confidence interval starting above 1.0 was considered as statistically significant. I2 and χ2 tests were used to quantify statistical heterogeneity. We used funnel plots to look for publication bias and performed a sensitivity analysis.Results: Six nonrandomized cohort studies were eligible. The primary outcomes were ABG < 10 dB: OR = 1.80 (95% CI: 0.96 to 3.38), ABG = 11 dB to 20 dB: OR = 1.49 (95% CI: 0.76 to 2.93), ABG > 20 dB: OR = 2.51 (95% CI: 0.77 to 8.22), and chorda tympani injury: OR = 3.51 (95% CI: 1.55 to 7.93). Secondary outcomes were taste: OR = 2.36 (95% CI: 1.01 to 5.51), average operation time: WMD = 0.14 (95% CI: -11.69 to 11.98), TM perforation: OR = 1.70 (95% CI: 0.44 to 6.58); pain: OR = 0.84 (95% CI: 0.36 to 1.96), and dizziness: OR = 2.15 (95% CI: 0.94 to 4.89).Conclusions: Endoscopic stapes surgery is a valid alternative to the microscope.Level Of Evidence: 2a Laryngoscope, 130: 2019-2027, 2020. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We have presented a microscopic model of interacting electrons with a magnetic ion spin localized in the centre of a self assembled quantum dot. We have found that the electrons occupying finite angular momentum orbitals interact with the localized spin through an effective exchange interaction mediated by electron-electron interactions. With a localized spin placed in the centre of the dot, only the spins of electrons occupying the zero angular momentum states of the s, d, shells couple directly to the localized spin via a contact exchange interaction. The effective interaction for p-shell electrons is obtained using exact diagonalization of the microscopic Hamiltonian as a function of the number of electronic shells, shell spacing and anisotropy of the exchange interaction. The anisotropy of exchange interpolates between the interaction types characteristics for conduction band electrons and valence band holes. The obtained results were found in good agreement with previously obtained results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We have studied the dynamic polarization anisotropy of photoluminescence spectra in gallium arsenide under different surface waves configurations by applying microscopic photoluminescence setup. We have found a periodic emission energy oscillation due to the strain induced band gap modulation. Time related polarization anisotropy spectra obtained under the one dimensional standing surface acoustic waves revealed that the photoluminescence polarization anisotropy became the stronger when the band gap energy reached its minimum value and that the polarized direction was perpendicular to the surface acoustic wave propagating direction. We have also found that the time resolved photoluminescence spectra from the dynamic quantum dots exhibited emission energy oscillations similar to the results for the one dimensional standing surface acoustic waves, while no polarization anisotropy appeared. It was also found that dynamic quantum dots formed by the two dimensional surface acoustic waves due to interference between two orthogonally propagating surface acoustic wave beams. The obtained results were compared with previously obtained results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Herpes simplex encephalomyelitis (HSE) is a rare disease with a high mortality rate. Correct diagnosis is established on the basis of the combination of the clinical and investigative features. Unfortunately, precise diagnosis remains difficult due to several clinical similarities and false negative or inconclusive results of diagnostic tests. Here, we present two cases of HSE together with the morphological and ultrastructural picture. The first case was a 45-year-old man with acute symptoms of encephalitis, and the other one was a 28-year-old woman presenting subacute encephalomyelitis. Both cases had negative serologic and molecular results for Herpes simplex in the blood and cerebrospinal fluid. Brain and spinal cord samples taken from both cases were stained typically with histological and immunohistochemical methods and small tissue fragments were examined with the transmission electron microscope (TEM). Microscopic examination confirmed viral encephalomyelitis in both cases. An electron micrograph showed typical intranuclear viral particles inside of damaged neurons, which together with topography of brain and spinal cord changes suggest HHV-1/HHV-2 in the first case and/or HHV-3 in the other case. Thus, morphological and ultrastructural examinations may be a useful tool to set up correct diagnosis and help to determine the pathogenic factor in patients suspected of viral encephalomyelitis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Urinary tract infection is a common health problem in both community and nosocomial setting. Microbiological analysis of mid-stream urine (MSU) of out-patients were carried out using standard microbiological technique. The presence of glucose, protein, ketone, leucocyte, bilirubin and nitrite were found out using dip sticks. The phenotypic detection of extended spectrum beta- lactamase (ESβL) and antibiogram of isolates were determined by disc diffusion method. Of the 150 MSU samples from out-patients, 34.7% had significant bacteriuria (SBU), while 65.3% showed no significant bacteriuria. There was no statistically significant relationship between the occurrences of SBU among subjects based on ages (p=0.567), marital status (p=0.063), educational levels (p=0.789) and occupation (p=0.134) whereas based on gender, there was statistically significant difference at p = 0.05. Sixty (40.0%) of MSU samples had leucocytes, 29.3% contained nitrite, 27.3% contained urobilinogen, 28.7% contained protein, 16.0% had ketone and bilirubin each, 20.7% had glucose, while 12.7% and 9.3% had yeast cells and cellular cells, respectively. Bacterial genera isolated were Staphylococcus, Escherichia, Pseudomonas, Streptococcus, Klebsiella, Serratia, Enterococcus and Enterobacter. Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus spp., E. coli, coagulase negative Staphylococcus spp and P. aeruginosa were highly sensitive to Ciprofloxacin and Gentamycin, while S. marcescens and Enterobacter spp were moderately resistant to Reflacine and Augmentin. ESβLs were detected in E. coli (43.5%), K. pneumoniae (58.8%), P. aeruginosa (63.0%), S. marcescens (60.0%) and Enterobacter species (50.0%). This study has revealed the necessity to routinely carry out medical examinations of subjects attending various hospitals for asymptomatic bacteriuria so as to reduce the prevalence of SBU and prevent symptomatic infection and its complications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Lumbar stenosis causes pain in the lower lumbar spine and lower extremities and reduces the patient's quality of life and walking ability. Thus, these conditions are common surgical indications for spinal stenosis. Previous reports have shown satisfactory clinical outcomes of the full-endoscopic (FE) and MI technique decompressive laminectomy for lumbar stenosis. However, they still remain controversial. Objective: We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to compare the postoperative outcomes between FE (bi-portal or uni-portal) and MI technique decompressive laminectomy for lumbar stenosis. Method: We searched all comparative studies that compared postoperative outcomes (operative time, VAS for back and leg pain, ODI in 3 months and last follow-up) of full-endoscopic (bi-portal or uni-portal) and microscopic technique decompressive laminectomy for lumbar stenosis from the PubMed and Scopus databases up to October 16, 2019. Results: Nine of 1107 studies (five comparative studies and four RCT) (N = 994 patients) were eligible; all studies were included in pooling of FE and MI decompression. Five and three studies were included in pooling of bi-portal endoscopic, uni-portal endoscopic and MI decompression. All three techniques were compared in one study. Eight, nine, seven, eight, five, seven, eight and nine studies were included in pooling of VAS for back, leg, ODI in 3 months and last follow-up and operative time, respectively. The UMD of VAS for back, leg, ODI in 3 months and last follow-up of FE group was − 0.63 (95% CI − 1.15, − 0.12), − 0.15 (− 0.42, 0.11), − 2.06 (− 3.76, − 0.39), − 0.07 (− 0.22, 0.08), − 0.16 (− 0.29, − 0.03), − 0.20 (− 1.20, 0.81) scores and − 3.00 (− 12.25, 6.25) minutes when compared to MI in lumbar stenosis. In terms of complication, FE was lower risk of 0.62 (0.40, 0.96) times when compared to MI. After subgroup analysis, BESS had significant lower back and leg pain within 3 months when compared to MI group, while uni-portal FE had significant lower leg pain in the last follow-up and complication when compared to MI group. There had no difference in ODI and operative time between two groups. Conclusion: FE had statistically significant lower back pain, lower leg pain and lower risk of having complications when compared to MI decompression in lumbar stenosis, while there is no difference in ODI and operative time between both groups. Comparing to MI, BESS had better early postoperative back pain while uni-portal FE had better leg pain and risk of having complications. Larger, prospective randomized controlled studies are needed to confirm these findings as the current literature is still insufficient. Level of evidence: III. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Psydrax horizontalis Schum. & Thonn; is used traditionally in the treatment of malaria, fever, and management of diabetes in Nsukka, South-eastern Nigeria. Owing to its increasing ethno-medicinal relevance, proper identification and evaluation are vital to prevent adulteration. This research article presents a detailed pharmacognostic, physicochemical and phytochemical evaluation on the leaves of Psydrax horizontalis which will be used in its identification and consequent standardization. Methods: The fresh and powdered leaves were evaluated for their macroscopic and microscopic features. Physicochemical properties and phytochemical screening were carried out based on standard procedures by World Health Organization (WHO). Results: Psydrax horizontalis is a petiolate, stipulate and compound bi-pinnate leaf with reticulate venation, entire margin, chordate base and has opposite leaf arrangement. Microscopic diagnostic characters observed were paracytic stomata, unicellular covering trichomes, microsphenoidal shaped calcium oxalate crystals, lignified vessels and fibres as well as numerous starch grains. The total ash, water soluble ash, sulphated ash, acid insoluble ash compositions were 6.5, 0.5, 2.75 and 0.5% respectively. The moisture content, alcohol soluble extractive and water soluble extractive values obtained were 8.8, 3.8 and 3.7% respectively. Qualitative and quantitative phytochemical screening showed flavonoids, tannins, steroids, phenols and alkaloids at 100.00±0.035, 22.00±0.036, 19.50±0.024, 15.00±0.032 and 13.00±0.014 mg/g respectively as the major phytochemical constituents. Conclusion: The pharmacognostic standards of the leaves of Psydrax horizontalis were determined and serve as quality control parameters for their purity, identification and standardization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Euphorbia tirucalli L. is a flowering shrub or tiny tree, indigenous to temperate regions. It is useful in the treatment of whooping cough, asthma, dyspepsia, colic, jaundice and some more ailments. Aim of the present investigation was to study pharmacognostical and physico-chemical screening of E. tirucalli stem-bark. Fresh and dried stem-bark with powder of E. tirucalli was evaluated using macroscopic and microscopic appraisal. Physico-chemical, preliminary phytochemical, fluorescence and quantitative evaluation along with primary HPTLC fingerprinting analysis were performed. Macroscopic appraisal confirmed that E. tirucalli has herbaceous odour with tongue sensitizing bitter taste. Dried stems are greenish brown and surface is longitudinally finely striated. Microscopic appraisal of stem-bark consists of epidermis, cortex and vascular cylinder. Foreign matter was found to be 0.26%. Total ash, acid insoluble ash and water soluble ashes were found to be 3.66%, 0.33% and 3.39%, respectively. Loss on drying was 6.58%. Swelling and foaming index were 6.92 mL and 200 mL, respectively. Quantitative evaluation suggested that the stem-bark has 0.38% and 4.60% alkaloid and saponin contents, respectively. HPTLC fingerprinting of ET6 extract fraction showed Rf values 0.04 (255 nm, 365 nm), 0.20 (400 nm), 0.21 (290 nm), 0.27 (400 nm) and others at various concentrations. Present investigation aids in developing the quality control parameters for standardization of E. tirucalli stem-bark. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present a platform for parallel production of standalone, untethered electronic sensors that are truly microscopic, i.e., smaller than the resolution of the naked eye. This platform heterogeneously integrates silicon electronics and inorganic microlight emitting diodes (LEDs) into a 100-μm-scale package that is powered by and communicates with light. The devices are fabricated, packaged, and released in parallel using photolithographic techniques, resulting in ∼10,000 individual sensors per square inch. To illustrate their use, we show proof-of-concept measurements recording voltage, temperature, pressure, and conductivity in a variety of environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Meghalaya, (in India), in the region of the mega-biodiversity hotspots, is home to a plethora of wild mushrooms. The present study concerns the exploration of the order Agaricales, which includes rare gilled mushrooms considered endangered under IUCN A4c criteria, due to the declining habitat. Electron microscopy of the gill sections revealed an abundance of clamp connections, hyphal cell walls, cystidia, and basidia. This rare species which belongs to the family Cyphellaceae, exhibits morphological and molecular differences from the Cyphella spp. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that it formed a clade under the genus Campanophyllum of the order Agaricales, confirmed by both Neighbor Joining (NJ) and Bayesian phylogenetic analysis. Being nutritionally potent along with its efficient antioxidant value, the fungal extract shows significant rise of two-fold in the antimicrobial activity along with the commercial antibiotics. The compound, Phenol, 2, 4-bis (1, 1-Dimethylethyl) (2, 4-DTBP) showed in ample range in the fungal extract along with aliphatic hydrocarbons, terpene, alcohol and volatile organic compounds on further characterization in GCMS. The present study indicates the endangered Campanophyllum proboscideum could be a rich source of natural antioxidants and an effective pharmaceutical agent. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The endonasal approach is the gold standard for the resection of pituitary tumours, with either microscopic endonasal transsphenoidal (MET) or endoscopic endonasal transsphenoidal (EET) technique. Advantages and disadvantages of both techniques have been widely described in the literature, although limited attention has been paid to its impact on the sense of smell. Objective: The present study aims to quantify the effect of transnasal surgery on pituitary patients and examine olfactory outcomes. Methods: A prospective cohort study assessing the sense of smell of 20 patients (10 MET and 10 EET) pre-operatively. Olfactory function was re-assessed 6 months after surgery, using the University of Pennsylvania Smell Identification Test (Sensonics Inc., Haddon Heights, NJ). Results: The UPSIT (Sensonics Inc.) results showed a median pre-operative score of 33 (IQR 31–37.5) (normosmia). The median post-operative result was 25 (IQR 19.5–32), consistent with moderate microsmia. Twenty percent of the patients had normal olfactory function post-operatively, all of whom were from the EET group. Twenty percent had mild microsmia, equally divided in MET and EET subgroups. Seven patients had severe microsmia. Four patients were completely anosmic at 6 months follow-up. Conclusions: Patients undergoing a transsphenoidal procedure are at risk of olfactory disturbance post-operatively, which may include loss of the sense of smell. This information is relevant to the patients' perioperative experience, and should be incorporated into counselling with regards to outcomes and expectations. Although the study size is small, the study results suggest the ETS technique may be less traumatic for the olfactory function. A larger study powered to fully examine potential differences in olfactory outcomes following ETS and MTS is warranted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to investigate the improvement of the strength and microstructure of peat soil in the Dianchi area Kunming, Yunnan province by cement and high-calcium fly ash, the modified soil with the peat soil and cement, fly ash and high-calcium fly ash in Dianchi was studied, and standard consolidation test, direct shear test, unconfined compressive strength test, SEM scanning electron microscopy test, energy spectrum analyst an XRD test were carried out. Through the correlation and comparison between the macroscopic physical and mechanical properties and microstructure characteristics, the optimal improvement scheme was obtained. The results show that the compression modulus, cohesive force and unconfined compressive strength of the mixed modified soil increase with the addition of cement, fly ash and high-calcium fly ash. The improvement effect of mixed addition on peaty soil is better than that of single addition, and the improvement effect is the best when the cement content of high calcium fly ash is 6%+12%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The current gold standard technique for lumbar disc herniation (LDH) is open lumbar microdiscectomy. The use of a tubular retractor system in the microdiscectomy technique can minimize tissue trauma by muscle-splitting sequential dilation during the surgical approach. This review aimed to describe the devices and surgical procedure of this minimally invasive microdiscectomy (MI-MD) and to discuss the pros and cons of the use of tubular retractors. Areas covered: Published medical literatures were extensively reviewed to summarize the practical devices and techniques related to the MI-MD for LDH. The placement of the tubular retractor by gradual muscle-splitting dilation technique may reduce muscle damage and postoperative wound pain. The use of flexible arm may easily change the tube direction and create a wide surgical field. Expert opinion: With reference to published literature, the MI-MD provides comparable clinical outcomes with less tissue trauma and early recovery. Development of devices for MI-MD is still ongoing. Extensive studies, including high-quality randomized trials, are required to establish a more practical and relevant MI-MD technique. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microscopic polyangiitis (MPA) is a primary systemic vasculitis characterized by inflammation of small-sized vessels associated with the presence of anti-neutrophilic cytoplasmic antibodies. We report a case of a 39-year-old female diagnosed with microscopic polyangiitis as an incidental finding who presented with signs and symptoms of a stroke at a young age. Usually, it presents with fever, malaise, skin rash, weight loss, mononeuritis multiplex, and arthralgia/myalgia. Very rarely, it can involve meninges to cause meningeal vasculitis which can present as a febrile seizure. The most frequent neurological manifestation is peripheral neuropathy. Cerebral infarction or hemorrhage as an isolated finding is very rarely observed in the patient with MPA as was seen in our patient. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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Transcallosal microscopic and endoscopic excisions are both well established approaches to colloid cyst resection; however, there has been no clear consensus regarding the favored approach. We performed a systematic review comparing the transcallosal microscopic and endoscopic transcortical approaches for colloid cyst excision. We performed a systematic review from 2000–2018 of patients undergoing colloid cyst excision via a microscopic transcallosal or endoscopic transcortical approach where the surgical intent was gross total resection. Studies that included multiple approaches were included if the reported results were stratified by approach. The microsurgical transcallosal approach had a higher rate of gross total resection when compared with endoscopic excision (96% for transcallosal vs. 78.5% endoscopic; P < 0.0001). There was also a lower recurrence rate with the transcallosal approach (0.98% vs. 2.16%; P = 0.0036); however, there was no difference in reoperation rates with similar length of follow-up (0.33% transcallosal, 0.61% endoscopic; P = 1.000). Endoscopy had lower overall morbidity when compared with transcallosal approaches (8.7% vs. 18.6%; P = 0.0001), including statistically significant lower rates of infection, infarct, and seizures in the endoscopic cohort. Rates of permanent memory deficit were similar (6.55% transcallosal vs. 4.5% endoscopic; P = 0.52). Shunt dependency was 9.8% after transcallosal excision versus 3.5% after endoscopic excision (P = 0.0002). Modern series of colloid cyst excision continue to favor transcallosal approaches in achieving gross total resection. Nevertheless, endoscopic techniques have significantly reduced morbidity compared to transcallosal approaches, including lower rates of infection, infarct, and seizure. Endoscopic approaches also have a statistically significant decreased rate of shunt dependency—arguably the most important primary endpoint of surgery. With improving endoscopic technology and mastery of the technique, endoscopic excision is maturing into a standard first-line approach for colloid cyst excision. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fusarium wilt causes losses to tomato crops, in Bali - Indonesia. This disease is caused by a pathogenic fungi. Research on the morphology and molecular pathogen of the fungi is very important to ensure the causes of plant diseases. Certainty about the causes of plant diseases is closely related to controlling the disease. Koch's postulate is done to confirm the agent of the disease. Based on observations of macroscopic, microscopic, and 18S rDNA characteristics, it can be identified that the cause of wilt in tomato plants in Bali is the Fusarium equiseti. This paper is the first report on one of the causes of wilt in tomato plants in Bali, Fusarium equiseti. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The accurate cutting of clad-composites through conventional practices is difficult due to the intrinsic heterogeneity of the constituent layers. Thermal cutting (gas/plasma) is commonly employed for machining of such composites. But thermal cutting yields poor cut quality, deep heat-affected regions and needs subsequent finishing operations. Wire electric discharge machining (WEDM) is a valuable substitute but the issue of low cutting rate limits its use. Therefore, this research aims to address the low cutting rate issue to justify the feasibility of WEDM for cutting of stainless-steel clad-composite. In addition to considering the workpiece and process-associated factors, zinc-coated wire is used in WEDM of cladded-workpiece. Experimental results obtained under L18 designed experiments are comprehensively analyzed through various statistical and optical microscopic analyses. Empirical model and optimal parametric combination have also been achieved and validated via confirmatory experiments. An improvement of 50.5% in cutting rate is realized with coated wire at S/N-optimal settings as compared to cutting rate achieved at L18-optimal settings using uncoated brass wire in WEDM of clad-composite. This improvement in cutting rate is attributed to the zinc-coating that pronounces the discharge capability of wire owing to its higher electrical conductivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work proposes PageRank as a tool to evaluate and optimize the global performance of a swarm based on the analysis of the local behavior of a single robot. PageRank is a graph centrality measure that assesses the importance of nodes based on how likely they are to be reached when traversing a graph. We relate this, using a microscopic model, to a random robot in a swarm that transitions through local states by executing local actions. The PageRank centrality then becomes a measure of how likely it is, given a local policy, for a robot in the swarm to visit each local state. This is used to optimize a stochastic policy such that the robot is most likely to reach the local states that are "desirable," based on the swarm's global goal. The optimization is performed by an evolutionary algorithm, whereby the fitness function maximizes the PageRank score of these local states. The calculation of the PageRank score only scales with the size of the local state space and demands much less computation than swarm simulations would. The approach is applied to a consensus task, a pattern formation task, and an aggregation task. For each task, when all robots in the swarm execute the evolved policy, the swarm significantly outperforms a swarm that uses the baseline policy. When compared to globally optimized policies, the final performance achieved by the swarm is also shown to be comparable. As this new approach is based on a local model, it natively produces controllers that are flexible and robust to global parameters such as the number of robots in the swarm, the environment, and the initial conditions. Furthermore, as the wall-clock time to evaluate the fitness function does not scale with the size of the swarm, it is possible to optimize for larger swarms at no additional computational expense. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During the transport of vegetables, it is important to maintain quality. The cotyledons of Japanese radish (Raphanus sativus var. longipinnatus) sprouts curl during transport, lowering quality. It is known that ethylene causes the leaf curling of some true leaves by promoting cell growth on the adaxial side (epinasty); however, the mechanism of cotyledon curling is unknown. We investigated the effect of ethylene on cotyledon curling of Japanese radish sprouts. Curling was promoted by exogenous treatment with ethylene and repressed by treatment with 1-methylcyclopropene, an inhibitor of ethylene perception. Microscopic observation of ethylene-exposed curled cotyledons and normal cotyledons indicates that ethylene did not affect cell number but did inhibit transverse (lateral) cell growth on the abaxial side of the cotyledons, causing cotyledon curling through differential growth. Ethylene inhibition of cell growth on the abaxial side of leaves has not been reported before. We show a new mechanism responsible for curling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study evaluates the acid resistance of cement mortar using granulated ferronickel slag (FNS) as fine aggregate and fly ash or ground FNS (GFNS) as a supplementary cementitious material (SCM). The deterioration was evaluated by visual inspection, and changes of mass and strength after immersion in 1% sulfuric acid solution for up to 180 days. Acid resistance was marginally reduced when 50% volume of sand was replaced by FNS. While the control specimens suffered significant spalling and strength loss, the use of fly ash or GFNS considerably reduced the deterioration. This is attributed to the formation of a protective zone and densification of microstructure by the pozzolanic reaction, as confirmed by strength activity index, permeable voids, thermogravimetric analysis, scanning electron microscopy, and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. Overall, the specimens with FNS aggregate and GFNS or fly ash showed less deterioration than the control specimens after prolonged acid exposure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Stochastic fiber misalignments have been proven to have a significant impact on the compressive strength of traditional unidirectional laminates. However, these inherent manufacturing defects are rarely considered when dealing with 3D woven composites, due to the difficulty in characterizing the misalignment angles of individual fibers within all yarns. The current work provides the first in-situ measurements of fiber misalignments in 3D angle-interlock woven composites (3DAWCs) at the microscale, where the continuous fibers inside the warp, weft, and binder yarns are systematically examined using a high-resolution optical microscope. Statistical analysis reveals that the microscopic fiber misalignments follow a normal distribution, and the magnitude of the misalignment angle increases slightly with the degree of yarn fluctuation. Through a developed user subroutine, SDVINI, the obtained misalignment distributions are initialized in the corresponding yarns that belong to the constructed high-fidelity model. In comparison to the idealized one, the model introducing realistic fiber misalignments can effectively correct the overestimated predictions, and exhibits better agreement with the performed experiments. Furthermore, the influence of fiber misalignments on compressive damage mechanisms, particularly kinking failure, is also parametrically studied by incorporating different misalignment distributions. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Suffusion refers to the process of fine particles carried away from a coarser soil matrix by seepage flow. Numerical simulations of coupled fluid–solid methods are wildly used in analyzing micro and macro behaviors of gap-graded soils during suffusion. However, the solid particles are usually simplified to spheres, resulting in inaccurate detachment, transmission and clogging mechanisms. In this study, the complex particle shape factor is taken into account in CFD–DEM. A series of numerical tests were conducted to explore the effects of aspect ratio both for fine and coarse particles. Macroscopic and microscopic information of suffusion process is obtained. Numerical results indicate that particle shape plays a significant role in suffusion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article researched the influence of microwave pre-curing on the creep properties of cement pastes. Microwave pre-curing with different durations was performed on cement paste specimens after standard cured for 3 d. Subsequently, the creep performance of the cement paste and the phase was acquired using indentation tests. The quantitative analysis of the phase was performed on the cement paste specimens after microwave pre-curing. The reasons for the variation of creep properties of the specimens affected by microwave pre-curing were also analyzed based on the pore characteristics, gel structure, and dielectric properties. The results indicated that the creep modulus of cement paste samples gradually increased with the increase of microwave pre-curing time. Microwave pre-curing significantly enhanced the contact creep modulus (CCM) of low-density (LD) C–S–H gel and high-density (HD) C–S–H gel. With the increase of microwave pre-curing time, the porosity in the samples decreased and the pore structure was significantly improved. Microwave pre-curing decreased the percentage of LD C–S–H gel and significantly increased the percentage of HD C–S–H gel, and also increased the complex structure of C–S–H gel. Microwave pre-curing enhanced the dielectric performance of paste specimens and increased their ability to store and absorb electromagnetic waves. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The diffusion of water through the surface of archaeological obsidian is mainly a temperature-dependent and concentration driven phenomenon that forms the basis of the hydration dating (OHD) method. For the first time, we apply a novel fractal approach, which explores the various attributes of images linked to the variation in water concentration and structural deficiencies within the hydrated layer. The microscopic images of hydrated layers on two obsidian specimens from Africa spanning thousands of years have been investigated. Seven complexity measures of fractal dimension (succolarity, lacunarity, correlation dimension, local connected fractal dimension (LCFD), fractal fragmented index (FFI), entropy and normalized Kolmogorov complexity (TIFF-LZW)), were applied to the hydration layer images. It was found that the effective determination of diffusion depth mainly comes from the application of succolarity, FFI and LCFD fractal indices, plus the structural deficiencies at the surface and the misconnected lacunas at the interface of the water diffusion layer and unaltered obsidian. The difference between fractal dimensions of the hydrated area and the non-hydrated images turned out to be a crucial quantitative parameter. Accordingly, we found that especially the succolarity, which is based on the capacity of a water fluid to percolate through the obsidian area in a given direction, was critical to determine the characteristics of the obsidian hydration layer. The FFI and LCFD estimate the compaction/fragmentation and connectivity, respectively. Therefore, the fractals play an important role in understanding the general diffusion in solids theory and the study aims at providing a new direction in the OHD and diffusion fields concerning the complex dynamic systems and structures which display a fractal pattern. • Complexity measures approach, in particular the three fractal dimensions (succolarity, FFI and LCFD) are efficient to explore the variation of the water concentration variation in the diffused layer of ancient obsidians. • The detailed fractal variation in thin section microphotograph images reflects the nano-micron range variation of the obsidian imperfections, the difficulty of defining the end point of the water diffusion front and the interface with the unhydrated obsidian. • The variation of the algorithmic values of each complexity measure identifies the pattern of various structural foci, whether they be crystals, voids, channels, fissures, lacunas, or crystal orientation, as a function of depth from the surface. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The separation of solution gas has great influence on the development of gas-bearing tight oil reservoirs. In this study, physical simulation and high-pressure mercury intrusion were used to establish a method for determining the porous flow resistance gradient of gas-bearing tight oil reservoirs. A mathematical model suitable for injection–production well networks is established based on the streamline integral method. The concept of pseudo-bubble point pressure is proposed. The experimental results show that as the back pressure decreases from above the bubble point pressure to below the bubble point pressure, the solution gas separates out. During this process, the porous flow resistance gradient is initially equal to the threshold pressure gradient of the oil single-phase fluid, then it becomes relatively small and stable, and finally it increases rapidly and exponentially. The lower the permeability, the higher the pseudo-bubble point pressure, and the higher the resistance gradient under the same back pressure. For tight reservoirs, the production pressure should be maintained above the pseudo-bubble point pressure when the permeability is lower than a certain value. When the permeability is higher than a certain value, the pressure can be reduced below the pseudo-bubble point pressure, and there is a reasonable range. The mathematical results show that after degassing, the oil production rate and the effective utilization coefficient of oil wells decline rapidly. These declines occur later and have a flat trend for high permeability formations, and the production well pressure can be reduced to a lower level. Fracturing can effectively increase the oil production rate after degassing. A formation that cannot be utilized before fracturing because of the blocked throats due to the separation of the solution gas can also be utilized after fracturing. When the production well pressure is lower than the bubble point pressure, which is not too large, the fracturing effect is better.

Background and objectives: Argyreia pilosa (Convolvulaceae) has been utilized for many aliments in the conventional system ethnomedicinally; most significantly against sexually transmitted diseases, skin troubles, diabetes, rheumatism, cough, and quinsy. The key challenge experienced in the standardization of herbal drugs is the correct identification of the plant source. Thus, setting up quality control parameters by means of pharmacognostic and phytochemical analysis which assures the purity, safety, and efficiency of A. pilosa is necessary. The current research was conducted to assess the pharmacognostic characteristics including macroscopic, microscopic, phytochemical and physicochemical parameters of the stems of A. pilosa. Methods: Micro as well as macroscopic characteristics were investigated. Physicochemical parameters had been done by implementing WHO suggested parameters; preliminary phytochemical and fluorescent evaluation of stem was executed for appropriate identification and standardization. Results: The color, shape, size, odor and surface characteristics were reported from the stem and powdered stem material of A. pilosa. Light microscope images of cross section and powdered stem revealed the presence of phloem fibers, multicellular uniseriate trichomes, sclerides, lignified xylem fibers, xylem vessels, parenchyma cells and medullary rays. Phytochemical testing confirmed the presence of flavonoids, alkaloids, tannins, phenols, steroids, fixed oils, fats, acid compounds, glycosides, amino acids, and proteins. Physicochemical parameters such as moisture content, ash value, extractive value and fluorescent behavior of stem powder have also been established. Conclusion: The current research would be useful in order to supplement the information regarding to standardization, identity and in performing additional explorations in Ayurvedic system of medicine.

Background Data Decompression discectomy is a common procedure for treatment of sciatica caused by lumbar disc herniation. Conventional discectomy may damage many important motion segment structures. Microscopic lumbar disc surgery can offer better visualization, magnification and illumination that lead to less invasive disc surgery. Shorter hospital stay, rapid recovery, and decrease the surgical cost is a trend to broaden the types of procedures that can be safely performed as one day care procedure. Purpose: To assess the safety and efficacy of microscopic lumbar discectomy with partial ligamentum flavum preservation in treating L5-S1 lumbar disc herniation as outpatient procedure in one day care hospital. Study design: Prospective clinical case study. Patients and Methods: Between the period of 2012 and 2015 seventy cases were treated for prolapsed L5-S1 disc after failure of conservative treatment. All patients were operated by microscopic lumbar discectomy with partial preservation of the ligamentum flavum as outpatient one day surgery. Visual analogue scale (VAS), Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), and patient satisfaction questionnaire were used to assess the safety and efficacy of our procedure. Preoperative and postoperative MRI was done to confirm ligamentum flavum preservation. Results: At the last follow up, VAS improved from 7.29±0.89 to 1.8±0.93 with P value P

Abstract Aim and background Intranasal transsphenoidal access to the sella turcica for removing pituitary gland tumors has been known since the beginning of the last century. It can be done either endoscopic or microscopic. Postoperative nasal complications may happen. The purpose of this study was to assess the frequency of chronic oronasal alterations. Methodology 33 patients who had previously undergone adenomectomy with a hypophyseal transsphenoidal approach using either the endoscopic or the direct transnasal microscopic technique; these patients were operated in different neurosurgical units. Assessement of nasal complications after 6 months was done. Results 33 patients among them 18 patients were done by endoscopy and the other 15 were done by microscopy. No postoperative nasal complications in the endoscopy group 6 months postoperative while it is present in 3 cases of the microscopic group after the same time. Conclusion Direct transnasal approach provides safe transsphenoidal access to the sella with a very low rate of nasal complications.

The urgency of the discussed issue is caused by the fact that Blagoveshchensk (Amur region) is referred to the cities of the Russian Federation with the highest level of atmospheric air pollution in 2010. The main aim of the study is to investigate mineral and geochemical composition of solid precipitation accumulated in snow cover of Blagoveshchensk city. The methods used in the study: microscopic, X-ray analysis, atomic-emission analyses and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP) were used to study the samples. The results: In winter in urbanized territory of the city an average fall of abnormal quantity daily of dust and chemical elements is very high. The authors have determined the natural (quartz, albite, anorthite, microcline and others) and technogenic (soot, amalgam magnesium, rubidium molybdenum selenide and others) phases of genesis. The coal particles of snow are the main concentrators of toxic and radioactive elements.

Based on the microscopic polycrystalline fatigue crack propagation (MPFCP) model, the MPFCP behaviours of GH4169 alloy under different micro-notch depths and lengths (constraints) were studied from aspects of MPFCP path, MPFCP rate and stress distribution. The influences of the initial crack angle on MPFCP behaviour were further explored. It was observed that the grain boundary, the grain size and the stress state were different during crack propagation under different constraints, resulting in different MPFCP paths. The MPFCP path was straighter under high constraints, and the MPFCP rate was related to the micro-notch size and the loading direction. The crack tip needed more stress accumulation at low constraints than under high constraints to ensure smooth MPFCP behaviour. The influence of the initial crack angle on the MPFCP path was mainly reflected in the grain interior where the initial crack was located. The initial crack angle had a greater influence on the MPFCP rate than on the MPFCP path., Competing Interests: The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (© 2024 The Authors.)

Background and Aim: The breeding of pet animals, especially dogs and cats, in Iraq has increased recently. However, no epidemiological or molecular data exist regarding Giardia duodenalis infection in pet animals, particularly in Babylon Province. Therefore, this study aimed to detect G. duodenalis and its genotypes in pets using microscopic and molecular techniques., Materials and Methods: For microscopic examination, 150 pet fecal samples (dogs = 75, cats = 75) were examined from October 1, 2022, to March 30, 2023. Fourteen isolates of G. duodenalis (7 per host) were genetically characterized using SSUrDNA gene sequencing., Results: Microscopic examination revealed that the rates of G. duodenalis infection was 14.67% (11/75) and 12% (9/75) in dogs and cats, respectively. According to sex, the infection rate in dogs was 22.22% (8/36) for males and 7.69% (3/39) for females. Conversely, the infection rate in cats was 5.56% (2/36) for males and 17.95% (7/39) for females. The highest infection rates were recorded for animals under 6 months of age, with 16.67% (3/18) for dogs and 27.27% (3/11) for cats. In rural areas, the infection rate was higher than that in urban areas, with 17.65% (6/34) in dogs and 13.89% (5/36) in cats. For the molecular diagnosis, 14 isolates of G. duodenalis (7 per host) were genetically characterized using SSUrDNA gene sequencing. In dogs, the findings revealed specific genotypes, with D at 3/7 (42.86%) and C at 2/7 (28.57%). In addition, zoonotic genotype A was found in 2/7 (28.57%) of dogs. In cats, the specific assemblage F was present in 4/7 (57.14%), while zoonotic genotype A was found in 3/7 (42.86%)., Conclusion: This study is considered the first in Babylon Province to detect G. duodenalis genotypes in pet animals (dogs and cats), as some have zoonotic genotypes that could transmit infections to humans. The results of this study illustrate the epidemiological importance of this parasite in this region., Competing Interests: The authors declare that they have no competing interests., (Copyright: © Idan and Al-Hasnawy.)

This study has been carried out to determined the prevalence rate of cryptosporidiosis in broiler flocks. 150 fecal samples from 30 broiler flocks (5 samples for each flock) in different areas of AL-Qadisiyah province were used. They were collected starting of January till November 2016 with two age groups of chickens, (10-15 and 30-35) days old. Samples were examined with Modified Ziel -Neelsen stain to detect the positive samples by microscopic examination. After that, a nested-PCR technique was performed on 60 samples. Results of microscopic examination showed that total infection rate of Cryptosporidium was29.33% . The highest rates of infection were recorded in 10-15 days group and during spring season, infection rates reached were 35.71% and 34.28% respectively. The lowest rates were observed in 30-35 days group and during summer season were 23.75% and 20% respectively. No significant differences within percentage in both two age group or among percentage in seasonsat level (P < 0.05) were recorded. According to Nested Polymerase Chain Reaction test, the results showed that overall percentage of infection is20%. The highest rate of observed infection is 23.33% in 10-15 days aged group, while the lowest rate of infection is (16.67 %) in the other age. No significant differences was observed between percentage in ages. On the other hand, result of comparing nested-PCR test with microscopic examination shows that there are no significant differences between the percentage of both tests. In conclusion, cryptosporidiosis is widespread in broiler flocks in AL-Qadisiyah province, but there is no significant impact found concerning the relationship between infection rates and age of chickens or seasons of the year