bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Review of Pipeline - Geohazard Interaction Analysis, Inspection and Monitoring Technologies for Onshore Pipeline in Tropical Region
Authors: Putra I. W. E. , Rohani M. J. , Lam C. M. , Ting D. S. , Nazmi M. A. M.
Published: February 2024

Pipeline is an integral part of onshore oil and gas infrastructures, transporting hydrocarbons across vast distances. Long distance pipelines that traverse through remote and mountainous region in tropical region are vulnerable to geohazards, such as landslides and soil erosion caused by high rain intensity, which may result in significant damage to the pipeline infrastructures, posing serious risks to public safety and the environment. This technical paper presents a comprehensive review and gap analysis of the current state of knowledge on pipeline-geohazard interaction analysis, inspection, and monitoring technologies for onshore pipeline in tropical region. The objective of this paper is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the potential geohazard impacts on pipelines and the best practices for mitigating these risks, hence preventing pipeline failures, environment damage as well as expensive intervention cost of repair. The paper discusses the various types of geohazards that can impact pipelines (pipeline – geohazard interaction). It also includes various inspections and monitoring as a mean to mitigate pipeline overstress conditions, such as remote sensing technologies, autonomous unmanned vehicles inspection technologies, inline inspection technologies, magnetic inspections as well as geophysical surveys and real-time monitoring systems. The gaps and limitations of these technologies are examined and areas for further research and development are identified. A case study on failures due to pipeline-geohazard interactions is also included. This case study provides valuable insight into importance of accurate inspection and monitoring to derive correct prediction of soil degradation. It also highlights the importance of proper pipeline design, monitoring, inspection, and maintenance practices in mitigating the risks posed by geohazards. In summary, this technical paper provides a comprehensive review on pipeline-geohazard interaction analysis and monitoring technologies for onshore pipeline infrastructures. The importance of understanding and mitigating the risks posed by geohazards to pipeline infrastructures and the best practices for ensuring the safe and reliable operation of pipeline systems in tropical region were highlighted. Some recommendations for future study include the need for more robust geohazard monitoring technologies, the importance of integrating geohazard analysis into pipeline design and construction processes, and the need for improvement in inspection, monitoring, and integrated pipeline – geohazard interaction analysis.
Machine Learning Prediction of the Lost Circulation Events at the Well Planning Stage
Authors: Guillot Valerian , Ruzhnikov Alexey , Corona Mauricio , Karpfinger Florian
Published: February 2024

Well construction process is often accomplished by multiple challenges, where lost circulation is one of the having most sifnificant impact. The downhole losses, partial or total, in many cases associated with karst, fractures, caverns or large voids, which cannot be identified at the well design stage with standard practices. The manuscript provides the detailed approach how the machine learning has been used to predict the loss circulation events at the planning stage.

The novel approach is based on the 3 main pillars: data preparation, the machine learning itself and the model application. The data preparation includes some manual work, when the attributes of the offset wells shall be analyzed – daily reports (over 80 million sentences, in this specific case), including the losses depths; the trajectories, and the identification of lost circulation events on them; the microresistivity and caliper logs, recorded both across lost circulation zones and competent formations; and the seismic attributes, total 15 were picked.

As a result, the 3D points with the attributes and labels for lost circulation events were created, where the Machine Leaning (ML) was applied. ML part includes the split of all the wells in 66/33 proportion, with study been performed in 66% of the wells, with further tune of the results. As the result the machine learning is applied to the seismic attributes and the trajectories to determine the risks of the lost circulation events. The model shows a low specificity in predicting the high probability of the lost circulation events, but a high specificity in predicting locations with a low probability of the lost circulation.

Using the proposed approach, it is possible now to plan a well trajectory in such way, that probability of the losses are reduced by up to 95%. The proposed workflow can be incorporated in the entire well construction process from the start of a location preparation, to ensure the new trajectory (without losses) can reach the target zone. As well it helps at the planning stage to allocate the resources and material required to cure the expected losses or to execute the blind drilling.
A Novel Photocatalytic Integrated Carbon Capture and Utilization (ICCU) Approach for Conversion of CO2 to Methanol in Amine Solution
Authors: Tai X. H. , Zain M. Md , Saleh S. M , Quek V. C. , Oh P. C.
Published: February 2024

Conventional CO2 utilization methods are often complex and costly. This is due to the requirement of capturing, purifying, storing, and transporting the CO2 feedstock prior to utilization. Recently, a new approach, namely Integrated Carbon Capture and Utilization (ICCU) has emerged, which allows the direct utilization of CO2 at the capture site such as an acid gas removal unit (AGRU). In this study, we introduce a novel ICCU method wherein CO2 captured in an amine-based solvent is directly converted into methanol via photocatalysis. A magnesium-doped titanium dioxide (Mg-TiO2) photocatalyst was synthesized via a one pot hydrothermal method. The synthesized photocatalyst was characterized using XRD, UV-Vis, BET, and XPS techniques. After 24 hours of UV-A photocatalysis, the Mg-TiO2 photocatalyst achieved a methanol yield of 31.49 μmol/gcat.h, which was 2.4 times higher than that of anatase TiO2 (12.94 μmol/gcat.h). Moreover, the Mg-TiO2 catalyst displayed excellent recyclability, maintaining its efficiency for up to 6 cycles of photocatalysis. This enhanced performance can be attributed to the presence of the Mg dopant, which improved CO2 adsorption and suppressed charge recombination rates. Furthermore, after 144 hours of photocatalysis, the amine solution exhibited minimal loss of alkalinity, indicating good retention of amine health. Notably, 8% of the loaded CO2 was stripped off from the amine after 144 hours, demonstrating that the photocatalysis system can serve as a 2-in-1 system, where CO2 was converted into methanol while simultaneously regenerating the amine's CO2 capturing capacity. This study presents the first report ICCU strategy employing photocatalysis.
Digital Twin for Oil Rim Management Using Early Warning System and Exception Based Surveillance, Offshore Malaysia
Authors: Amir M. Mahamad , Wei T. Nian , Bahrim R. Kamarul , Piah M. B. Mat , Tewari R. D. , Kechut N. , Razak A. Abdul , Manaf N. Abdul , Castillano E.
Published: February 2024

Effectively managing oil rim reservoirs poses significant challenges due to uncertainties in predicting oil rim movements. This leads to production losses, high gas-to-oil ratios (GOR), increased water cut, and the risk of losing the oil rim. To address these issues, a proof of concept for an early warning system was developed, utilizing innovative data analytics techniques and leveraging well data, such as pressure and temperature measurements, to detect changes in water cut as an indicator of oil rim movement. The workflow involves data extraction, pre-processing, regime detection, trend analysis, and exception-based surveillance with alerts. A selected oil-producing well with ample flow line pressure, temperature, and well test data was used to test the workflow. Pipesim modeling indicated a clear correlation between temperature and water cut, validated through sensitivity analysis at different GOR levels. The technology provides an integrated workflow covering data management, analytics, an event detection alert algorithm, and a visualization dashboard. It is not intended to replace existing oil rim management tools but serves as an additional decision support tool when reliable models are unavailable. The early warning system presented in this paper addresses the limitations of current methods by offering a proactive approach to detect fluid movements and mitigate production losses. By integrating novel data analytics techniques and utilizing readily available well data, operators can make informed decisions and take timely actions, improving the efficiency and effectiveness of oil rim management in petroleum operations. This technology serves as a valuable decision support tool in the absence of reliable models, ultimately enhancing the overall performance of oil rim management strategies.
Enhanced Gas Recovery from High CO2 Natural Gas Injection in Gulf of Thailand
Authors: Leemasawatdigul J. , Kessadayurat P. , Attavitkamthorn V. , Wichaisorn W. , Suthipintawong T. , Boonmeelapprasert C. , Suphawechraksakul P. , Adisaipattanakul N. , Punglusamee K. , Worasuk S. , Thatmali P.
Published: February 2024

This project is one of the first successful field tests and commercial implementation of enhanced gas recovery (EGR) for a depleted gas reservoir by injecting a natural high-carbon dioxide (CO2) gas stream in the Gulf of Thailand. It has demonstrated that injection of CO2-containing gas stream into a natural gas reservoir is a promising win-win technology for ultimate recovery improvement of natural gas in depleted reservoirs and CO2 sequestration. To evaluate the effectiveness of EGR, the test was conducted in depletion-drive sandstone gas reservoirs. EGR was initiated when the primary gas recovery was mostly realized. Injection of natural gas with around 60% CO2 from deeper formations in the same area yielded an incremental gas recovery of 8% to 10% of original gas in-place in one successful candidate, demonstrating the recovery enhancement potential in such reservoirs. Increasing ultimate recovery of a depleted gas reservoir and enhancing hydrocarbon recovery helps supply extra energy to the Kingdom of Thailand and power more electricity generation. The additional production has generated multi-million USD in revenue not only for the country mainly in form of royalty and petroleum income tax, but also for the company. Another obvious benefit of this project is a positive environmental impact. Its outcome helps reduce the emissions of greenhouse gas in the atmosphere by sequestering large amounts of CO2 in a depleted gas reservoir. This underground storage option is considered economical and have a low environmental impact. Therefore, the project delivers positive environmental change.Besides the fact that we are implementing this pilot, we believe this project can also be adopted by operators in other fields on a very broad sense and scale. With favorable size of opportunities, it can be economic to inject high CO2 gas from surface compressors. This will enable the operator more flexibility in term of source of high CO2 gas and injection rate. Along with all those mentioned above, the project contributes to sustainability and innovation for the exploration and production industry in Thailand.
Temperature Perturbation with Depth and Induced Pressure in Vicinity of Wellbore During Supercritical CO2/CH4/H2 Injection for Gas Storage Design and Evaluations
Authors: Wang Yarlong
Published: February 2024

CO2/H2/CH4 are injected into subsurface for sequestration and storage purposes. The properties of gases are sensitive to the pressure and temperature, particularly when the supercritical condition is surpassed. Both density and viscosity change are critically dominating the pressure profile and stress induced in vicinity of a wellbore, These induced stresses and pressure must be calculated accurately for safety, injectivity and storage efficiency design. To calculate fluid pressure and induced stresses under different THM environments, a fully coupled THM model with mutiphase fluid may be used. Analytical solution is highly desirable as an efficient engineering tool, but difficult to be achieved. Thus numerical methods are normally utilized. To avoid resorting the complex numerical methods in this study, an coupled THM borehole solution is developed by considering thermal gradient, but the temperature change for a given depth is neglected. Pressure and density profiles in vicinity of a wellbore are studied and implications to field wellbore integrity subject to different injecting flux with perturbated temperature.
Localized Wear in Steel, Glass Fiber and Composite Casings Upon Drillstring Contact: A Full-Scale Experimental Comparison
Authors: Yaqoob T. , Oppelt J. , Holzmann J. , Schamp J.
Published: February 2024

Localized dynamic casing wear due to drillstring contact (predominantly at the tooljoint) is a complex phenomenon to simulate due to the number of control variables influencing the non-linear wear behavior. Wear intensity is influenced by individual combinations of service loads (changing force-area distributions), metallurgical properties (material hardness and yield strength) and tribological parameters (surface roughness, friction factor and wear type).

For wear simulations to be accurate, the required friction- and wear factors must be determined experimentally by full-scale wear tests to be used in model equations. This paper presents a comprehensive account of the experimental work carried out to reproduce friction- and wear factors via full-scale wear tests under variable conditions of casing material, side force, drillstring RPM, axial movement and circulation fluid. The design of the wear test frame, the test method and the application of determined friction- and wear factors to detect casing wear trends under downhole conditions is the core focus of this study. Full scale casing wear tests were carried out while incorporating different casing materials under a selected range of operational loads and lubrication conditions. The outcomes of the wear scenarios were then compared for steel, fibered glass and fibered carbon casings. Results of wear tests have been included and compared in the study for three casing materials under water-based mud lubrication environments.

The test results show a trending wear pattern in terms of friction- and wear factors for all casing materials. After the initial peak values, the wear factor is observed to decline drastically to a steady range due to contact pressure reduction. For all tested materials, this steady range of values can provide a good estimate of field wear volume over time under particular service loads and drilling scenarios. In addition, the measured steady values of friction factors help determine close ranges on contact pressure threshold for the casings. It has been observed from the detected trends in the test results that repeated wear tests can make casing wear predictable.

With the inclusion of more steel grades, casing diameters and casing types into the experimental scope, the wear frame can be used to develop a comprehensive record of wear performance of casings under different field scenarios. Attribution of wear factors and contact pressure thresholds to specific downhole conditions via a wear database, and its integration into a software solution can fill gaps to predict and reduce casing wear while retaining operational flexibility on downhole stresses.
Innovative Technology to Release Stuck Pipe Problems in Gas Wells of Tripura, India - Case Histories
Authors: Lal Kishori , Khan MSBA , Kumar Krishna
Published: February 2024

Stuck pipe incidents are the most troublesome and costliest drilling problem worldwide. in terms of time and financial cost. It's also a major contributor to non-productive time (NPT), which continues to comprise 20-25% of annual rig operating time. This may be due to differential sticking forces, inadequate hole cleaning and the consequent formation of cuttings beds in high angle wells, chemically active formations and inadequate mud weight leading to wellbore instability, fractured/faulted formations, and over-pressured formations.

Sticking can occur while drilling, making a connection, logging, testing, or during any kind of operation which may involve leaving the equipment in the hole. When a pipe sticks the driller usually tries to free it by mechanical movement e.g.by pulling, jarring or, if the pipe was moving immediately prior to sticking, trying to move it in the opposite direction. Frequently this fails to release the pipe as there is a limit to the force which can be applied, since too much force could fracture the pipe and make the situation worse. If the pipe remains stuck then the practice is to apply a Stuck pipe release agent/pill.

It is observed that there are many such pipe release agents/pills known in the industry but these are time-consuming and costly. In those cases where environmental concerns do not permit or discourage their use, diesel oil has been used with a fair amount of success but there are cases where asphalt, diesel oil, mineral oil or other oil-based spotting fluids cannot or should not be used. Many other commercially available, environmentally-friendly spotting fluids have been used in an attempt to free stuck pipe, but with limited success.

It is therefore the primary object to present this paper to provide new and environmentally-friendly more reliable materials which can be used to free stuck pipe. The paper further discusses the current testing and evaluation methods used for screening, testing, and evaluating spotting fluids to select the superior and reject the inferior along with their advantages and disadvantages with existing Mud Systems. Finally, a recommendation is made to improve the testing and evaluation method and overcome the limitations of conventional methods and apparatus.
IL-33 Induces Cellular and Exosomal miR-146a Expression as a Feedback Inhibitor of Mast Cell Function
Authors: Taruselli Marcela T , Abdul Qayum Amina , Abebayehu Daniel , Caslin Heather L , Dailey Jordan M , Kotha Aditya , Burchett Jason R , Kee Sydney A , Maldonado Tania D , Ren Boyang , Chao Wei , Zou Lin , Haque Tamara T , Straus David , Ryan John J
Published: February 2024

IL-33 is an inflammatory cytokine that promotes allergic disease by activating group 2 innate lymphoid cells, Th2 cells, and mast cells. IL-33 is increased in asthmatics, and its blockade suppresses asthma-like inflammation in mouse models. Homeostatic control of IL-33 signaling is poorly understood. Because the IL-33 receptor, ST2, acts via cascades used by the TLR family, similar feedback mechanisms may exist. MicroRNA (miR)-146a is induced by LPS-mediated TLR4 signaling and serves as a feedback inhibitor. Therefore, we explored whether miR-146a has a role in IL-33 signaling. IL-33 induced cellular and exosomal miR-146a expression in mouse bone marrow–derived mast cells (BMMCs). BMMCs transfected with a miR-146a antagonist or derived from miR-146a knockout mice showed enhanced cytokine expression in response to IL-33, suggesting that miR-146a is a negative regulator of IL-33–ST2 signaling. In vivo, miR-146a expression in plasma exosomes was elevated after i.p. injection of IL-33 in wild-type but not mast cell–deficient KitW-sh/W-sh mice. Finally, KitW-sh/W-sh mice acutely reconstituted with miR-146a knockout BMMCs prior to IL-33 challenge had elevated plasma IL-6 levels compared with littermates receiving wild-type BMMCs. These results support the hypothesis that miR-146a is a feedback regulator of IL-33–mediated mast cell functions associated with allergic disease.
The Role of Fc Receptors in the Innate Immune System of Flounders Purported to Be Homologs of FcγRII and FcγRIII
Authors: Hao Yan-Bo , Xing Jing , Sheng Xiu-Zhen , Chi Heng , Tang Xiao-Qian , Zhan Wen-Bin
Published: February 2024

FcγR is a significant opsonin receptor located on the surface of immune cells, playing a crucial role in Ab-dependent cell-mediated immunity. Our previous work revealed opposite expression trends of FcγRII and FcγRIII in flounder mIgM+ B lymphocytes after phagocytosis of antiserum-opsonized Edwardsiella tarda. This observation suggests that FcγRII and FcγRIII might serve distinct functions in Ig-opsonized immune responses. In this study, we prepared rFcγRIII as well as its corresponding Abs to investigate the potential roles of FcγRII and FcγRIII in the Ab-dependent immune response of IgM+ B cells. Our findings indicate that, unlike FcγRII, FcγRIII does not participate in Ab-dependent cellular phagocytosis. Instead, it is involved in cytokine production and bacterial killing in mIgM+ B lymphocytes. Additionally, we identified platelet-derived ADAM17 as a key factor in regulating FcγRIII shedding and cytokine release in mIgM+ B lymphocytes. These results elucidate the functions of FcγRII and FcγRIII in the innate immunology of mIgM+ B lymphocytes and contribute to an improved understanding of the regulatory roles of FcγRs in the phagocytosis of teleost B lymphocytes.
Fosl2 Deficiency Predisposes Mice to Osteopetrosis, Leading to Bone Marrow Failure
Authors: Chen Jinfeng , Wen Yi , Lin Lili , Cui Yuchen , Chen Zhenyu , Gao Jing , Zhuang Yifang , Chen Qi
Published: February 2024

Arthritis causes Fos-like 2 (Fosl2) inactivation, and various immune cells contribute to its pathogenesis. However, little is known about the role of Fosl2 in hematopoiesis and the possible pathological role of Fosl2 inactivation in the hematopoietic system in arthritis. In this study, we show that Fosl2 maintains hematopoietic stem cell (HSC) quiescence and differentiation while controlling the inflammatory response via macrophages. Fosl2-specific deletion in the hematopoietic system caused the expansion of HSCs and myeloid cell growth while affecting erythroid and B cell differentiation. Fosl2 inactivation enhanced macrophage M1 polarization and stimulated proinflammatory cytokines and myeloid growth factors, skewing HSCs toward myeloid cell differentiation, similar to hematopoietic alterations in arthritic mice. Loss of Fosl2 mediated by Vav-iCre also displays an unexpected deletion in embryonic erythro-myeloid progenitor–derived osteoclasts, leading to osteopetrosis and anemia. The reduced bone marrow cellularity in Vav-iCreFosl2f/f mice is a consequence of the reduced bone marrow space in osteopetrotic mice rather than a direct role of Fosl2 in hematopoiesis. Thus, Fosl2 is indispensable for erythro-myeloid progenitor–derived osteoclasts to maintain the medullary cavity to ensure normal hematopoiesis. These findings improve our understanding of the pathogenesis of bone-destructive diseases and provide important implications for developing therapeutic approaches for these diseases.
Politics and implications on the COVID-19 health systems preparedness: the Malawian experience
Authors: Nyasulu Juliet , Nyondo-Mipando A.L.
Published: February 2024

The spread of the COVID-19 disease to Africa has raised concerns around the resultant effects on the fragile and non-resilient health systems. Malawi reported its first COVID-19 cases in early April 2020 at the time of the country’s political turmoil, as the courts ruled for a re-run of presidential elections in July 2020 due to irregularities observed in the May 2019 elections. Therefore, assessing the implications of politics on the COVID-19 health systems preparedness is critical to design health systems strengthening efforts during the pandemic. We applied the WHO health systems framework to assess the implications of politics on the COVID-19 on the Malawi health systems preparedness. There was the population’s lack of trust in government hampering government efforts, which posed as a huge concern for Malawi to navigate through the pandemic including the health systems preparedness for the pandemic. This, coupled with mass demonstrations by the public disagreeing with the Lockdown and health service providers put across their COVID-19 related demands. The political environment and the trust people have in the government determines a country’s response to a pandemic. In a pandemic situation like COVID-19, the government’s ability to coordinate the various key stakeholders while instilling trust in people remain critical in strengthening health systems to contain and mitigate the pandemic. However, the Malawi political turmoil highlighted in this paper derailed the process and efforts to contain the and timely prepare the health systems to manage the pandemic whilst maintaining its core functions of delivering essential health services. Therefore, governments should consider the effects of political challenges in supporting a country’s health system to prepare for pandemics.
Rosette Forming Glioneural Tumor Treated with Conformal Radiation
Authors: Giridhar Prashanth , Mallick Supriya , Haresh K. P , Gupta Subhash , Rath Goura K.
Published: February 2024

Rosette forming glioneural tumors (RGNT) are a rare type of low-grade brain tumor included in 2007 in WHO classification. Given the benign nature of the disease, a complete surgical excision has been considered optimum. However, a handful of cases have reported the locally aggressive nature of RGNT. In addition, radiation may also be considered for a tumor located in areas where surgical excision is difficult. We present a similar case, where surgical risk was weighed against resection and we treated the patient with conformal radiation.
A Case Report of Siblings with Dystonia
Authors: Damante Mark A , Ganguly Ranjit , Huntoon Kristin M , Kraut Eric H , Deogaonkar Milind
Published: February 2024

Myoclonus–dystonia syndrome (MDS) is an autosomal dominant disorder due to a mutated epsilon–sarcoglycan gene (SGCE) at the dystonia 11 (DYT11) locus on chromosome 7q21-31. ε-sarcoglycan has been identified in vascular smooth muscle and has been suggested to stabilize the capillary system. This report describes two siblings with MDS treated with bilateral globus pallidus interna deep brain stimulation. One patient had a history of bleeding following dental procedures, menorrhagia, and DBS placement complicated by intraoperative bleeding during cannula insertion. The other sibling endorsed frequent epistaxis. Subsequent procedures were typically treated perioperatively with platelet or tranexamic acid transfusion. Hematologic workup showed chronic borderline thrombocytopenia but did not elucidate a cause-specific platelet dysfunction or underlying coagulopathy. The bleeding history and thrombocytopenia observed suggest a potential link between MDS and platelet dysfunction. Mutated ε-sarcoglycan may destabilize the capillary system, thus impairing vasoconstriction and leading to suboptimal platelet aggregation.
How Experts Make a Call
Authors: Srivastava Priyanka , Chaudhry Chakshu , Kaur Anupriya , Phadke Shubha R. , Panigrahi Inusha
Published: February 2024

Background:

Cytogenetic microarray (CMA) has brought a revolution in the field of cytogenetics by improving resolution by 500 times that of traditional karyotyping. Analysis and interpretation of whole genome copy number variations (CNVs) is quite a challenging task for clinicians. Some software packages and databases are available which are based on algorithm. However, there is no clear rule to decide the pathogenicity.

Objective:

To formulate a step-wise approach to evaluate the interpretation of a CNV and to help the clinicians to interpret the CNV reported by a laboratory with help of four representative cases of different phenotypes.

Methods and Material:

CMA was done using AffymetrixCytoscan 750K array in four cases from different families. Analysis was done based on the proposed approach.

Results:

The prediction of the effect of these CNVs depends on multiple factors and can change over time as the databases are expanded. CMA in four cases from different families revealed, a rare co-occurrence of 22q13.3 duplication and 22q13.3 deletion in a proband, a deletion along with mosaicism on 10q21.2 and 10p15.3, respectively, in the second case. Third case resulted in one variant of unknown significance of 1.2 Kb deletion on 10q11.22 and the fourth case showed a benign CNV. All CNVs were analyzed based on the proposed approach and helped in subsequent management and counselling of the families. The results indicate the effectiveness of a principled, feature-based, statistical framework for uncharacterized CNV interpretation, which future studies can expand upon to construct more reliable classifiers.
Endoscopic Endonasal Excision of a Complex Craniopharyngioma Operated Multiple Times by Transcranial Route
Authors: Patel Biren K , Darshan H R , Binu Anand , Easwer H V , Nair Prakash
Published: February 2024

Background:

Complex craniopharyngiomas pose a significant surgical challenge owing to its proximity to critical structures and its intrinsic nature to resist radical excision.

Objective:

To show that endoscopic endonasal approach (EEA) is potentially a better alternative to transcranial approach in tumors that have been operated multiple times by transcranial route for achieving radical excision with minimal morbidity.

Materials and Methods:

A 32-year-old male previously operated twice through interhemispheric approach for craniopharyngioma presented with blurring of vision accompanied by headache and intermittent diplopia. Imaging revealed a large lobulated suprasellar recurrence with a large calcified part adjacent to left internal carotid artery. The tumor was resected by an extended endonasal approach. The patient experienced improvement in his vision with no significant endocrine complication.

Results and Conclusion:

This case demonstrates the surgical technique and various operative nuances of endoscopic endonasal resection of a complex craniopharyngioma.
Chronic Lymphocytic Inflammation with Pontine Perivascular Enhancement Responsive to Steroids (CLIPPERS) With Extrapontine and Pulmonary Involvement
Authors: Pessoa Mariana S L , de Lima Francisca E M M , Uchôa Luiz Ricardo A , Torres Danielle M , de A Coimbra Pablo Picasso , Távora Daniel G F
Published: February 2024

CLIPPERS is a rare subacute inflammatory disorder of the CNS, with a poorly understood pathogenesis and with heterogeneous clinical manifestations. Reports of extra-pontine involvement in this syndrome are rare, and as far as we know there are only two cases reported with simultaneous involvement of the CNS and pulmonary parenchyma. We report the case of a young patient with a subacute condition of cognitive dysfunction, as well as motor, sensory and balance changes. Imaging showed pontine and extrapontine brain involvement in association with multiple pulmonary nodules, characterizing a very unusual presentation of this syndrome. It is important for radiologists to be aware of that rare presentation in order to make a prompt diagnosis of this condition, enabling early treatment and avoiding permanent neurological sequelae.
Impact of Extent of Investigation on Causes of Ischemic Stroke in The Young
Authors: Conforto Adriana Bastos , Del Guerra Felipe Borelli , Figueiredo Tamires Rocha , de Almeida Marcele Schettini , Leite Claudia da Costa , Yamamoto Fabio Iuji
Published: February 2024

Background:

Despite enormous advances in the diagnosis and treatment of ischemic stroke over the past decades, the extent of “standard” investigation to define its causes is heterogeneous. Young patients often undergo a myriad of diagnostic tests in developed countries, but the cost-effectiveness of this approach is uncertain.

Objectives:

Our main goal was to compare the frequencies of ischemic stroke of undetermined and determined etiologies in young patients with “complete” or “incomplete” investigation according to either a stepwise or an extensive protocol.

Methods:

Data from 143 young patients with ischemic stroke were reviewed. For each patient, available data were assessed by means of a stepwise and an extensive protocol of investigation. We compared the frequencies of ischemic stroke of undetermined and determined etiology according to “complete” or “incomplete” investigation according to each protocol.

Results:

Completeness of investigation led to a significant increase in determination of stroke etiology when a stepwise approach but not an extensive protocol was applied.

Conclusions:

These results suggest that ordering an extensive workup to all young patients does not enhance the capability of determining causes of ischemic stroke. Evidence-based guidelines to define pathways of investigation and consensus about the interpretation of tests are deeply needed.
Hyperekplexia
Authors: Gupta Juhi , Badal Sachendra , Anand Vaishakh , Jauhari Prashant , Chakrabarty Biswaroop , Gulati Sheffali
Published: February 2024

Hyperekplexia, an underdiagnosed motor paroxysm of infancy, mimics epilepsy closely. It is hallmarked by episodic and excessive startle response, brief episodes of intense, generalized hypertonia, or stiffness in response to unexpected auditory and/or tactile stimuli right from birth. Though a seemingly benign entity with an excellent prognosis, hyperekplexia has been occasionally associated with recurrent apneas, feeding difficulties, and sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). We describe three unrelated children with hyperekplexia (two SLC6A5; one GLRA1). All three children had the onset of motor paroxysms from the neonatal period and were initially labeled as drug-resistant epilepsy leading to a variable diagnostic delay, the longest being 2.5 years. An excellent response to oral clonazepam with a good neurodevelopmental outcome was observed. The lack of habituation on the nose-tapping test is a simple clinical clue to the diagnosis. Early differentiation from epilepsy minimizes treatment cost, allays caregiver anxiety, and empowers them with abortive measures.
Emerging Trends in Stroke Epidemiology in Indian Women Over the Last Decade
Authors: Dhamija Rajinder K , Aggarwal Abhishek , Saluja Alvee , Parihar Jasmine , Garg Divyani
Published: February 2024

Background and Objective:

Temporal trends in clinico-epidemiological parameters of stroke among Indian women have not been studied. We aimed to study the changes in these parameters over the last decade.

Material and Methods:

417 strokes (ischemic/hemorrhagic) were prospectively recruited in two timelines. In total, 267 strokes were recruited in 2005 while 150 strokes were recruited in 2016–17. Patients underwent stepwise evaluation via a structured proforma. Demographic factors, stroke subtypes, and risk factors were analyzed.

Results:

Female strokes had a higher mean age in 2017 compared to 2005 (60.90 ± 16.9 vs. 53.21 ± 16.75 years, P = 0.002). Hemorrhagic strokes among females increased over the last decade. Female strokes with dyslipidemia were significantly lower in 2017 compared to 2005 (P = 0.002). Proportion of hypertensive and diabetic strokes were not significantly different between these two periods.

Conclusions:

Over the past decade, the mean age of stroke onset has increased while the prevalence of dyslipidemia has reduced significantly among Indian female stroke patients.
Surgical Track and Scalp Implantation Following Intraventricular Meningiomas Excision
Authors: Rai Hitesh I S , Singh Jyotsna , Singh Manmohan , Singh Jaskaran , Gupta Asheesh K , Samala Raghu , Veerabhadaraiah Pavana , Nambirajan Aruna
Published: February 2024

Meningiomas are benign intracranial neoplasms arising from arachnoid cap cells. High grade meningiomas are uncommon and metastasis from these is an extremely rare event. Commonest sites of metastasis from high grade meningiomas include lung, liver, lymph nodes and bone. It is unusual for meningiomas to recur in the surgical track following excision. More so, it is even the rarest phenomenon for a meningioma to implant in subgaleal location. Various mechanisms have been proposed for the scalp implantation vis-à-vis CSF dissemination, direct surgical implantation etc., It may apply to all histological grades of meningiomas. Even the benign tumors have been shown to seed at postoperative scar. This seems to have provoked our interest to review the literature regarding this scalp implantation. We have reviewed all the cases where surgical excision of intracranial meningiomas has led to seeding of surgical track as well as scalp. We have discussed the various genetic aberrations that can guide us regarding the progression of the tumor and prognosis. We also report a case of surgical track and scalp implantation of an atypical intraventricular meningioma following excision.
Bi-Basal Ganglia Involvement with Signal Evolution in a Case of Anti-LGI1 Encephalitis
Authors: Gai Qing , Ruan Shan , Dong Xiaoyu , Cong Shuyan
Published: February 2024

Anti-leucine-rich glioma-inactivated 1 (LGI1) encephalitis is a rare type of non-paraneoplastic limbic encephalitis (LE) mainly characterized by seizures, cognitive disorder, faciobrachial dystonic seizures (FBDS), hyponatremia, insomnia, and autonomic dysfunction. Here, we report the case of an elderly female patient who tested positive for antibodies against LGI1 and was initially thought to have Hashimoto encephalopathy (HE) due to its similar clinical features and the patient's high titers of antithyroid antibody. Interestingly, during the course of the disease, the patient exhibited typical FBDS and brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed a hyperintense signal evolution from T2/Fluid attenuated inversion recovery (FLAIR) to T1-weighted image in the bilateral basal ganglia (BG), which have rarely been reported previously.
Reversible Hemichorea with Severe Carotid Stenosis
Authors: Raghavendra Seetharam , Ramachandran Jaychandran , Nooraine Javeria , Iyer Rajesh B.
Published: February 2024

Background:

We report a 74-year-old lady with hemichorea of 6 months duration due to severe carotid stenosis without cerebral infarction. Electroencephalography and single-photon emission computed tomography studies suggested hemispheric abnormality. Hemichorea resolved following carotid endarterectomy.

Discussion:

Hemichorea is the commonest movement disorder following acute stroke. It is rarely reported in association with severe carotid stenosis without evident infarction. In the absence of corresponding structural abnormalities on magnetic resonance imaging in hemichorea, vascular imaging is critical in establishing the diagnosis. Hemichorea in setting of carotid or vascular stenosis is often resistant to medical treatment and best responds to reperfusion.

Conclusion:

Hemichorea due to critical hemispheric ischemia is a well-described rare entity that best responds to reperfusion strategies. Awareness is essential to identify this entity and manage appropriately.
Posterior Reversible Encephalopathy in a Patient with Eclampsia
Authors: Jurga Szymon , Urbaniak Łukasz , Pilichowska-Ujma Emilia
Published: February 2024

A case of a patient admitted to the hospital for preterm labor, who was diagnosed with and treated for posterior reversible encephalopathy (PRES) is presented in detail. During labor, the patient experienced a sudden increase in blood pressure with disturbance of consciousness and visual disturbances. Medical imaging examination revealed vasogenic edema in multiple locations in the brain. After administering treatment neurological symptoms receded. The presented case proves that PRES should always be considered in similar cases.
Effect of Karate on Neurocognitive Physiology
Authors: Bhattacharya Puneet , Chatterjee Sridip , Mondal Samiran
Published: February 2024

Background:

The literature survey shows improvement in cognitive performance following acute bouts of physical exercise and chronic exercise patterns. However, neurocognitive growth through karate, a moderate intensity physical activity, is very limited. The synchronization of the nervous and endocrine system can be best reflected through this martial art form through neurogenesis and cognitive potentiation. Numerous outstanding reviews have summarized these findings for martial arts like judo and taekwondo. This review tries to orchestrate the efficiency of karate in neurocognition.

Objective of the Study:

The specific aim of this review paper is to magnify the efficiency of karate training in cognitive functions, through its response to neurochemical transmissions and electrophysiological signaling

Materials and Method:

Numerous related literature were evaluated, screened, and selected using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses eligibility criteria. All appropriate publications that satisfied the primary objective of the study were scientifically and schematically presented in this review paper.

Results:

The psychophysiological effect of karate training and their relation with brain functions have been elaborated. This review compiles the few studies established on the cognitive benefits of karate through the electrical stimuli and neurochemical release.

Conclusion:

Karate may be effective in advancement of particular brain functions and neurocognitive actions through a life time. Electrophysiological studies have unraveled improved neural efficiency, stress tolerance, working and muscle memory but need further exploration. Similarly, to better understand the effects of karate on neurochemical secretions, further research involvement is required.
Back to the Basics
Authors: Park Sangil , Choi Hye-Yeon
Published: February 2024

Identification of the precise cause is fundamental to the secondary prevention of acute ischemic stroke. Several uncommon causes of stroke have been identified as a result of the attempts made to identify the cause of a cryptogenic stroke. However, unless proper protocol is followed each time, without missing any steps, it might not be possible to accurately determine the cause of strokes. Herein, we report a case wherein the cause of stroke was not detected in time because a fundamental step was missed while attempting to determine the cause. The 44-year-old male patient in our case developed recurrent ischemic stroke due to vertebral artery dissection. Although vertebral artery dissection is not a rare cause of stroke, it was missed while focusing on the rare embolic condition, Valsalva sinus aneurysm. Although a cardiac embolism is a potential cause of stroke in the present case, it is critical to examine all parts from the ostium to the end of the relevant artery (vertebral arteries) when checking for the possible causes of stroke. The ideal protocol to be followed when determining stroke etiology would be as follows: 1) identifying anatomical location and vascular territory of the lesion, 2) evaluating relevant arterial pathology or testing potential embolic source according to the presence of one relevant artery for ischemic lesion, and 3) performing a detailed evaluation of the rare causes of stroke.
Wernekinck Commissure Syndrome with Holmes Tremor
Authors: Ling Y T , Li J M , Ling Y , Wang S G , Wang J T , Zhang X Y , Dong L H
Published: February 2024

Wernekinck commissure syndrome is a rare midbrain infarction, it consists of several symptoms including bilateral cerebellar ataxia, ophthalmoplegia, and palatal tremor. Holmes tremor is a rare clinical syndrome characterized by a combination of resting, postural, and action tremors. We describe two cases of Wernekinck commissure syndrome with Holmes tremor. To the best of our knowledge, it has been rarely reported in the literature to date. Both of the cases were presented with acute onset of bilateral cerebellar ataxia, dysarthria, and Holmes tremor. In the treatment, one patient was given “clonazepam and benheisol,” the other was received acupuncture therapy, both of them showed a marked improvement in ataxia and tremor.
Does the Serum Expression Level of High-Mobility Group Box 1 (HMGB1) in Multiple Sclerosis Patients have a Relationship with Physical and Psychological Status? A 12-Month Follow-Up Study on Newly Diagnosed MS Patients
Authors: Sharafkhah Mojtaba , Mosayebi Ghasem , Massoudifar Ali , Seddigh Seyed Hamzeh , Abdolrazaghnejad Ali , Alamdara Mobina Aghakarim , Mokarian Peyman , Mohammadbeigi Abolfazl , Ebrahimi-Monfared Mohsen
Published: February 2024

Background:

There is a strong need to identify simple and cost-effective biomarkers for multiple sclerosis (MS).

Objectives:

To evaluate the serum levels of receptor for advanced glycation end products (RAGE) ligand, the high-mobility group box (HMGB) 1 and its correlation with changes in the physical and psychological indicators in MS patients.

Methods:

During the 12-month follow-up, the serum level of HMGB1, expanded disability status scale (EDSS) score, rate of clinical relapse, quality of life, and other psychological indicators were assessed at baseline, after 6 months, and after 12 months and compared between 60 newly diagnosed MS patients with 60 healthy controls (HCs). Data were analyzed using t-test and Mann–Whitney U test, two-way repeated measures analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Spearman's rank correlation coefficient.

Results:

A significant decrease was observed in the EDSS score (P < 0.001) and a significant increase in the serum level of HMGB1 in all MS patients (P = 0.009). The serum level of HMGB1 was higher in MS patients, compared with HCs (baseline: 65.8%, P = 0.007; six-month follow-up: 73.9%, P = 0.004; and 12-month follow-up: 77.6%, P = 0.021). There were significant positive correlations between the serum level of HMGB1 and scores of MS impact scale-psychological subscale (MSIS-PS) (r = 0.59, P < 0.001), Beck depression inventory (BDI) (r = 0.491, P = 0.031), and Pittsburgh sleep quality index (PSQI) (r = 0.471, P = 0.035).

Conclusion:

The serum level of HMGB1 could predict the patients' psychiatric status better than their physical status.
Paroxysmal Kinesigenic Dyskinesia Masquerading as Dissociative Disorder
Authors: Sutar Roshan , Rai Nirendra Kumar
Published: February 2024

Movement disorders are common presentations to psychiatry and neurology clinics in general hospitals. Many a times, liaison between psychiatry and neurology helps in determining the exact etiology and diagnosis of rare movement disorders. Paroxysmal dyskinesia is a group of disorders caused by a genetic mutation. It is one of the rare presentations among dyskinetic disorders but often encountered by psychiatrists due to the psychogenic nature of episodes and apparently normal neurological findings in-between the episodes. Liaison work with a neurologist is of great importance rather than misdiagnosing them as a dissociative or psychogenic movement disorder. Unawareness of their presentation can lead to repeated consultations, unwarranted psychotherapies, and can create a sense of therapeutic nihilism among the treating psychiatrists. Predominantly four different variants are described in the literature under this group and new classification has been proposed recently. We encountered a case of paroxysmal kinesigenic dyskinesia with obstructive sleep apnea masquerading as a dissociative disorder.
Anterior Clival Defect with Primary CSF Rhinorrhea
Authors: Vyas Medha A , Chakraborty Tamajit , Gupta Anshul , Chhabra Satnam Singh
Published: February 2024

Spontaneous (nontraumatic, nonsurgical) cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) rhinorrhea constitute only 3–4% of all cases. Here, we present a case of a 66-year-old male who presented with spontaneous CSF rhinorrhea, where intraoperative findings revealed an anterior clival defect as the cause. Such cases are extremely rare, and to the best of our knowledge only five of such cases are described in the literature. In this report, we discuss the possible etiology and management of this rare condition.