bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spatially Resolved BPT Mapping of Nearby Seyfert 2 Galaxies
Authors: Ma Jingzhe , Maksym W. Peter , Fabbiano G. , Elvis Martin , Storchi-Bergmann Thaisa , Karovska Margarita , Wang Junfeng , Travascio Andrea
Published: February 2021

We present spatially resolved Baldwin–Phillips–Terlevich (BPT) mapping of the extended narrow-line regions (ENLRs) of seven nearby Seyfert 2 galaxies, using Hubble Space Telescope narrowband filter imaging. We construct the BPT diagrams using ≤0.″1 resolution emission line images of [O iii] λ5007, Hα, [S ii] λλ6717, 6731, and Hβ. By mapping these diagnostic lines according to the BPT classification, we dissect the ENLR into Seyfert, low-ionization nuclear emission-line (LINER), and star-forming regions. The nucleus and ionization cones are dominated by Seyfert-type emission, which can be interpreted as predominantly photoionization by the active galactic nucleus (AGN). The Seyfert nucleus and ionization cones transition to and are surrounded by a LINER cocoon, extending up to ∼250 pc in thickness. The ubiquity of the LINER cocoon in Seyfert 2 galaxies suggests that the circumnuclear regions are not necessarily Seyfert-type, and LINER activity plays an important role in Seyfert 2 galaxies. We demonstrate that spatially resolved diagnostics are crucial to understanding the excitation mechanisms in different regions and the AGN–host galaxy interactions.
A Comparison of Rest-frame Ultraviolet and Optical Emission-line Diagnostics in the Lensed Galaxy SDSS J1723+3411 at Redshift z = 1.3293
Authors: Rigby J. R. , Florian Michael , Acharyya A. , Bayliss Matthew , Gladders Michael D. , Sharon Keren , Brammer Gabriel , Momcheva Ivelina , LaMassa Stephanie , Bian Fuyan , Dahle Håkon , Johnson Traci , Kewley Lisa , Murray Katherine , Whitaker Katherine , Wuyts Eva
Published: February 2021

For the extremely bright lensed galaxy SDSS J1723+3411 at z = 1.3293, we analyze spatially integrated MMT, Keck, and Hubble Space Telescope spectra that fully cover the rest-frame wavelength range of 1400–7200 Å. We also analyze near-IR spectra from Gemini that cover Hα for a portion of the lensed arc. We report fluxes for 42 detected emission lines, and upper limits for an additional 22. This galaxy has extreme emission-line ratios and high equivalent widths that are characteristic of extreme emission-line galaxies. We compute strong emission-line diagnostics from both the rest-frame optical and rest-frame ultraviolet (UV), to constrain physical conditions and test the spectral diagnostics themselves. We tightly determine the nebular physical conditions using the most reliable diagnostics, and then compare to results from other diagnostics. We find disappointing performance from the UV-only diagnostics: they either are unable to measure the metallicity or dramatically underestimate it; they overestimate the pressure; and the UV diagnostic of ionization parameter has a strong metallicity dependence in this regime. Based on these results, we suggest that upcoming James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) spectroscopic surveys of galaxies in the reionization epoch should invest the additional integration time to capture the optical [O ii] and [O iii] emission lines, and not rely solely on the rest-frame UV emission lines. We make available the spectra; they represent one of the highest-quality emission-line spectral atlases of star-forming galaxies available beyond the local universe, and will aid the planning of observations with JWST.
The Fate of the Merger Remnant in GW170817 and Its Imprint on the Jet Structure
Authors: Murguia-Berthier Ariadna , Ramirez-Ruiz Enrico , Colle Fabio De , Janiuk Agnieszka , Rosswog Stephan , Lee William H.
Published: February 2021

The first neutron star binary merger detected in gravitational waves, GW170817, and the subsequent detection of its emission across the electromagnetic spectrum showed that these systems are viable progenitors of short γ-ray bursts (sGRB). The afterglow signal of GW170817 has been found to be consistent with a structured GRB jet seen off-axis, requiring significant amounts of relativistic material at large angles. This trait can be attributed to the interaction of the relativistic jet with the external wind medium. Here we perform numerical simulations of relativistic jets interacting with realistic wind environments in order to explore how the properties of the wind and central engine affect the structure of successful jets. We find that the angular energy distribution of the jet depends primarily on the ratio between the lifetime of the jet and the time it takes the merger remnant to collapse. We make use of these simulations to constrain the time it took for the merger remnant in GW170817 to collapse into a black hole based on the angular structure of the jet as inferred from afterglow observations. We conclude that the lifetime of the merger remnant in GW170817 was ≈1–1.7 s, which, after collapse, triggered the formation of the jet.
Kinetic Model of Large-amplitude Oscillations in Neutron Star Pair Cascades
Authors: Cruz Fábio , Grismayer Thomas , Silva Luis O.
Published: February 2021

Electron–positron pair cascades developed in the extreme electromagnetic fields of neutron star polar caps are considered a key source of magnetospheric plasma in these objects. We use a simplified model that maps the quantum electrodynamics processes governing pair cascades to analytically and numerically model these cascades, and show that large-amplitude oscillations of the electric field are inductively driven by the resulting plasma. A plasma instability arises in these oscillations, and particles accelerated in growing electric field perturbations can drive secondary pair bursts that damp the large-amplitude oscillations. An analytical model is proposed to describe this interplay between the pair production and kinetic collective plasma processes. All analytical results are shown to be in excellent agreement with particle-in-cell simulations.
Identifying and Repairing Catastrophic Errors in Galaxy Properties Using Dimensionality Reduction
Authors: Hovis-Afflerbach Beryl , Steinhardt Charles L. , Masters Daniel , Salvato Mara
Published: February 2021

Our understanding of galaxy evolution is derived from large surveys designed to maximize efficiency by only observing the minimum amount needed to infer properties for a typical galaxy. However, for a few percent of galaxies in every survey, these observations are insufficient and derived properties can be catastrophically wrong. Further, it is currently difficult or impossible to determine which objects have failed, so that these contaminate every study of galaxy properties. We develop a novel method to identify these objects by combining the astronomical codes that infer galaxy properties with the dimensionality reduction algorithm t-SNE, which groups similar objects to determine which inferred properties are out of place. This method provides an improvement for the COSMOS catalog, which already uses existing techniques for catastrophic error removal, and therefore should improve the quality of large catalogs and any studies that are sensitive to large redshift errors.
The Young Supernova Experiment: Survey Goals, Overview, and Operations
Authors: Jones D. O. , Foley R. J. , Narayan G. , Hjorth J. , Huber M. E. , Aleo P. D. , Alexander K. D. , Angus C. R. , Auchettl K. , Baldassare V. F. , Bruun S. H. , Chambers K. C. , Chatterjee D. , Coppejans D. L. , Coulter D. A. , DeMarchi L. , Dimitriadis G. , Drout M. R. , Engel A. , French K. D. , Gagliano A. , Gall C. , Hung T. , Izzo L. , Jacobson-Galán W. V. , Kilpatrick C. D. , Korhonen H. , Margutti R. , Raimundo S. I. , Ramirez-Ruiz E. , Rest A. , Rojas-Bravo C. , Siebert M. R. , Smartt S. J. , Smith K. W. , Terreran G. , Wang Q. , Wojtak R. , Agnello A. , Ansari Z. , Arendse N. , Baldeschi A. , Blanchard P. K. , Brethauer D. , Bright J. S. , Brown J. S. , Boer T. J. L. de , Dodd S. A. , Fairlamb J. R. , Grillo C. , Hajela A. , Cold C. , Kolborg A. N. , Law-Smith J. A. P. , Lin C.-C. , Magnier E. A. , Malanchev K. , Matthews D. , Mockler B. , Muthukrishna D. , Pan Y.-C. , Pfister H. , Ramanah D. K. , Rest S. , Sarangi A. , Schrøder S. L. , Stauffer C. , Stroh M. C. , Taggart K. L. , Tinyanont S. , Wainscoat R. J. ,   (Young Supernova Experiment)
Published: February 2021

Time-domain science has undergone a revolution over the past decade, with tens of thousands of new supernovae (SNe) discovered each year. However, several observational domains, including SNe within days or hours of explosion and faint, red transients, are just beginning to be explored. Here we present the Young Supernova Experiment (YSE), a novel optical time-domain survey on the Pan-STARRS telescopes. Our survey is designed to obtain well-sampled griz light curves for thousands of transient events up to z ≈ 0.2. This large sample of transients with four-band light curves will lay the foundation for the Vera C. Rubin Observatory and the Nancy Grace Roman Space Telescope, providing a critical training set in similar filters and a well-calibrated low-redshift anchor of cosmologically useful SNe Ia to benefit dark energy science. As the name suggests, YSE complements and extends other ongoing time-domain surveys by discovering fast-rising SNe within a few hours to days of explosion. YSE is the only current four-band time-domain survey and is able to discover transients as faint as ∼21.5 mag in gri and ∼20.5 mag in z, depths that allow us to probe the earliest epochs of stellar explosions. YSE is currently observing approximately 750 deg2 of sky every 3 days, and we plan to increase the area to 1500 deg2 in the near future. When operating at full capacity, survey simulations show that YSE will find ∼5000 new SNe per year and at least two SNe within 3 days of explosion per month. To date, YSE has discovered or observed 8.3% of the transient candidates reported to the International Astronomical Union in 2020. We present an overview of YSE, including science goals, survey characteristics, and a summary of our transient discoveries to date.
On the Synthesis of the Astronomically Elusive 1-Ethynyl-3-Silacyclopropenylidene (c-SiC4H2) Molecule in Circumstellar Envelopes of Carbon-rich Asymptotic Giant Branch Stars and Its Potential Role in the Formation of the Silicon Tetracarbide Chain (SiC4)
Authors: Yang Zhenghai , Doddipatla Srinivas , Kaiser Ralf I. , Nikolayev Anatoliy A. , Azyazov Valeriy N. , Mebel Alexander M.
Published: February 2021

Organosilicon molecules such as silicon carbide (SiC), silicon dicarbide (c-SiC2), silicon tricarbide (c-SiC3), and silicon tetracarbide (SiC4) represent basic molecular building blocks connected to the growth of silicon-carbide dust grains in the outflow of circumstellar envelopes of carbon-rich asymptotic giant branch (AGB) stars. Yet, the fundamental mechanisms of the formation of silicon carbides and of the early processes that initiate the coupling of silicon–carbon bonds in circumstellar envelopes have remained obscure. Here, we reveal in a crossed molecular beam experiment contemplated with ab initio electronic calculations that the astronomically elusive 1-ethynyl-3-silacyclopropenylidene molecule (c-SiC4H2, Cs, X1A′) can be synthesized via a single-collision event through the barrierless reaction of the silylidyne radical (SiH) with diacetylene (C4H2). This system represents a benchmark of a previously overlooked class of reactions, in which the silicon–carbon bond coupling can be initiated by a barrierless and overall exoergic reaction between the simplest silicon-bearing radical (silylidyne) and a highly hydrogen-deficient hydrocarbon (diacetylene) in the inner circumstellar envelopes of evolved carbon-rich stars such as IRC+10216. Considering that organosilicon molecules like 1-ethynyl-3-silacyclopropenylidene might be ultimately photolyzed to bare carbon–silicon clusters like the linear silicon tetracarbide (SiC4), hydrogenated silicon–carbon clusters might represent the missing link eventually connecting simple molecular precursors such as silane (SiH4) to the population of silicon-carbide based interstellar grains ejected from carbon-rich AGB stars into the interstellar medium.
Consistent Dynamical and Stellar Masses with Potential Light IMF in Massive Quiescent Galaxies at 3 < z < 4 Using Velocity Dispersions Measurements with MOSFIRE
Authors: Esdaile James , Glazebrook Karl , Labbé Ivo , Taylor Edward , Schreiber Corentin , Nanayakkara Themiya , Kacprzak Glenn G. , Oesch Pascal A. , Tran Kim-Vy H. , Papovich Casey , Spitler Lee , Straatman Caroline M. S.
Published: February 2021

We present the velocity dispersion measurements of four massive ∼1011
M
⊙ quiescent galaxies at 3.2 < z < 3.7 based on deep H and K-band spectra using the Keck/MOSFIRE near-infrared spectrograph. We find high velocity dispersions of order σ

e
∼250 km s−1 based on strong Balmer absorption lines, and we combine these with size measurements based on HST/WFC3 F160W imaging to infer dynamical masses. The velocity dispersions are broadly consistent with the high stellar masses and small sizes. Together with evidence for quiescent stellar populations, the spectra confirm the existence of a population of massive galaxies that formed rapidly and quenched in the early universe z > 4. Investigating the evolution at constant velocity dispersion between z ∼3.5 and z ∼2, we find a large increase in effective radius 0.35 ± 0.12 dex and in dynamical-to-stellar mass ratio

of 0.33 ± 0.08 dex, with low expected contribution from dark matter. The dynamical masses for our z ∼3.5 sample are consistent with the stellar masses for a Chabrier initial mass function (IMF), with the ratio

dex suggesting an IMF lighter than Salpeter may be common for massive quiescent galaxies at z > 3. This is surprising in light of the Salpeter or heavier IMFs found for high velocity dispersion galaxies at z ∼2 and cores of present-day ellipticals, which these galaxies are thought to evolve into. Future imaging and spectroscopic observations with resolved kinematics using the upcoming James Webb Space Telescope could rule out potential systematics from rotation and confirm these results.
Article Commentary: How can the Latent Cytomegalovirus Cause an Increase in All-Cause Mortality? An Answer Based on the Microcompetition Model
Authors: Polansky Hanan
Published: February 2021

Many studies showed the existence of a positive association between cytomegalovirus (CMV) seropositivity and all-cause mortality. In this paper, we use the microcompetition model to explain how the latent CMV sequesters the limiting GABP·p300/CBP transcription complex, which causes abnormal cellular gene expression, a chronic disease and mortality. Since most people harbour the latent CMV, we urge further research on this topic.
Mobile Visualisation for On-Site Collaboration
Authors: Koseoglu Ozan , Bouchlaghem Dino
Published: February 2021

There are various parties involved in construction projects. This multi-disciplinary environment makes it difficult to work collaboratively especially during design problem resolution and decision making on site. Better collaboration between design teams and construction sites may enable the construction industry to deliver projects on time and within budget. The latest mobile and visualisation technologies can support mobile visualisation applications and collaboration between distributed construction site and design teams. These applications and collaboration may improve the distribution and clarification of drawings, management of design changes, resolution of buildability problems, and the monitoring of construction progress, all in real time.

The paper provides an overview of design information communication and collaboration between the construction site and design teams. It then highlights the key results of a questionnaire survey on the needs & requirements from the construction industry and presents the implementation of mobile visualisation in construction. Further, the paper describes the results of the validation of scenarios illustrating the planning and implementation of mobile communication and visualisation technologies to support design teams and the construction site.
ERAPs Reduce In Vitro HIV Infection by Activating Innate Immune Response
Authors: Saulle Irma , Marventano Ivana , Saresella Marina , Vanetti Claudia , Garziano Micaela , Fenizia Claudio , Trabattoni Daria , Clerici Mario , Biasin Mara
Published: February 2021

Recombinant human (rh) ERAP2-treated PBMCs are less susceptible to in vitro HIV-1 infection even when CD8+ T cells are depleted. We therefore investigated whether ERAP2 can trigger other immunocompetent cells, boosting their antiviral potential. To this end, human monocyte-derived macrophages (MDMs) differentiated from PBMCs of 15 healthy donors were in vitro HIV-1 infected in the presence/absence of 100 ng/ml of rhERAP2, rhERAP1, or rhERAP1+rhERAP2. Notably, rhERAP2 treatment resulted in a 7-fold reduction of HIV-1 replication in MDMs (p < 0.05). This antiviral activity was associated with an increased mRNA expression of CD80, IL-1β, IL-18, and TNF-α (p < 0.01 for cytokine) in in vitro ERAP2-treated HIV-1–infected MDMs and a greater release of IL-1β, TNF-α, IL-6, and IL-8 (p < 0.01 for each cytokine). The rhERAPs addition also induced the functional inflammasome activation by ASC speck formation in monocytes (p < 0.01) and in THP1-derived macrophages (p < 0.01) as well as a rise in the percentage of activated classical (CD14+CD16−HLA-DRII+CCR7+) and intermediate (CD14++CD16+HLA-DRII+CCR7+) monocytes (p < 0.02). Finally, THP-1–derived macrophages showed an increased phagocytosis following all ERAPs treatments. The discovery that ERAPs are able to trigger several antiviral mechanisms in monocyte/macrophages suggests that their anti-HIV potential is not limited to their canonical role in Ag presentation and CD8+ T cell activation. These findings pose the premise to further investigate the role of ERAPs in both innate and adaptive immunostimulatory pathways and suggest their potential use in novel preventive and therapeutic approaches against HIV-1 infection.
Comparative study of subgaleal and subdural closed drain in surgically treated cases of chronic subdural hematoma
Authors: Singh Jagminder , Sobti Shivender , Chaudhary Ashwani , Chaudhary Vikram , Garg Tarun
Published: February 2021

Background: Chronic subdural hematoma (CSDH) is seen most common in geriatric patients, and trauma is the most important reason for CSDH. Operative treatment of CSDH in symptomatic patients is yet the gold standard of therapy because it allows decompression of the subdural space and aids improvement in neurological status. Burr-hole craniostomy is the most common accepted treatment for CSDH. There is still controversy regarding which type of drain placement is best in the outcome: subdural or subgaleal drain. Aim: The aim of the study was to compare the outcome of subgaleal versus subdural drain in surgically treated patients of CSDH. Materials and Methods: Patients were assigned by simple random sampling in two groups. The study was conducted from February 2016 to July 2017. A total of 70 patients were enrolled into the study and were divided in two groups (Group 1 – Subgaleal drain; Group 2 – Subdural drain). Statistical analysis was done using Chi-square and t-test. Outcome was assessed at the end of hospital stay by modified Rankin scale. Postoperative computed tomography scan was done after 24 h of surgery. Results: This study concluded that both types of drains are equally effective for the treatment of CSDH. There is a statistically significant difference in the occurrence of seizure in both the groups as there was no seizure in subgaleal drain group compared to 5 (14.3%) patients who had seizures postoperatively in subdural drain group (P = 0.020). There was insignificant difference with respect to preoperative Glasgow Coma Scale/sex/preoperative hematoma volume/postoperative hematoma volume/preoperative midline shift. Conclusion: Subgaleal drain is safe and technically easy, as subgaleal drain has no direct contact with brain parenchyma, thus less chances of brain laceration, intracerebral hematoma formation, and seizures.
Lifesaving decompressive craniectomy for high intracranial pressure attributed to deep-seated meningioma: Emergency management
Authors: Haq Irwan , Niantiarno Fajar , Arifianto Muhammad , Nagm Alhusain , Susilo Rahadian , Wahyuhadi Joni , Goto Takeo , Ohata Kenji
Published: February 2021

Objects: As the most common intracranial extra-axial tumor among adults who tend to grow slowly with minimal clinical manifestation, the patients with meningioma could also fall in neurological emergency and even life-threatening status due to high intracranial pressure (ICP). In those circumstances, decompressive craniectomy (DC) without definitive tumor resection might offer an alternative treatment to alleviate acute increasing of ICP. The current report defines criteria for the indications of lifesaving DC for high ICP caused by deep-seated meningioma as an emergency management. Patients and Methods: This study collected the candidates from 2012 to 2018 at Dr. Soetomo General Hospital, Surabaya, Indonesia. The sample included all meningioma patients who came to our ER who fulfilled the clinical (life-threatening decrease in Glasgow Coma Scale [GCS]) and radiography (deep-seated meningioma, midline shift in brain computed tomography [CT] >0.5 cm, and diameter of tumor >4 cm or tumor that involves the temporal lobe) criteria for emergency DC as a lifesaving procedure. GCS, midline shift, tumor diameter, and volume based on CT were evaluated before DC. Immediate postoperative GCS, time to tumor resection, and Glasgow Outcome Scale (GOS) were also assessed postoperation. Results: The study enrolled 14 patients, with an average preoperative GCS being 9.29 ± 1.38, whereas the mean midline shift was 15.84 ± 7.02 mm. The average of number of tumor's diameter and volume was 5.59 ± 1.44 cm and 66.76 ± 49.44 cc, respectively. Postoperation, the average time interval between DC and definitive tumor resection surgery was 5.07 ± 3.12 days. The average immediate of GCS postoperation was 10.07 ± 2.97, and the average GOS was 3.93 ± 1.27. Conclusion: When emergency tumor resection could not be performed due to some limitation, as in developing countries, DC without tumor resection possibly offers lifesaving procedure in order to alleviate acute increasing ICP before the definitive surgical procedure is carried out. DC might also prevent a higher risk of morbidity and postoperative complications caused by peritumoral brain edema.
Role of temozolomide regimen on survival outcomes in molecularly stratified WHO Grade II gliomas: A systematic review
Authors: Ghaffari-Rafi Arash , Ghaffari-Rafi Shadeh , Leon-Rojas Jose
Published: February 2021

Objective/Introduction: Although a critical chemotherapeutic, temozolomide's optimal regimen for 2016 World Health Organization (WHO) Grade II gliomas remains elusive, hence there is utility in not only cataloging survival outcomes of Grade II glioma subtypes against the background of temozolomide regimens, but also quantifying differences in progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS). Materials and Methods: A systematic review of MEDLINE, Embase, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trails was conducted by using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis and the Cochrane Handbook of Systemic Reviews of Interventions. Results: Each molecular subtype of WHO Grade II glioma had a different temozolomide regimen identified as optimal in prolonging PFS and OS. For PFS, with temozolomide, the 25th, 50th, and 75th percentiles, were as follows (in months), respectively–A-wt II: 6.90, 12.95, and 19.95; A-mt II: 34.45, 36.01, and 39.60; OD II: 37.90, 46.00, and 55.03 (P = 0.016). For OS, the first quartile (25%), median (50%), third quartile (75%), were respectively identified (in months–A-wt II: 21.6 (median; n = 1); A-mt II: 60.6, 85.2, and 109.8; OD II: 86.1, 96.2, and 106.3 (P = 0.37). Conclusion: For each tumor molecular subtype, a different temozolomide regimen was identified as optimal for prolonging PFS and OS. Furthermore, regardless of temozolomide regimen, A-wt II had a significantly shorter PFS than A-mt II and OD-II. Overall, the data can provide useful prognostic insight to patients when making critical treatment decisions. Moreover, by cataloging and assessing survival outcomes per temozolomide regimen, such may facilitate future clinical trial design.
Pharyngocutaneous fistula and horner's syndrome following loosening of locking screw of anterior cervical plating: A rare case report and management
Authors: Jogani Abhinav , Rathod Tushar , Marathe Nandan , Mohanty Shubhranshu , Shende Chetan
Published: February 2021

We hereby present a rare case of pharyngocutaneous fistula associated with locking screw loosening causing internal cricopharynx perforation and Horner's syndrome following anterior cervical plating. A 27-year-old male patient had undergone anterior cervical plating at C5–C7 level due to gunshot injury to the neck, and 1 month postsurgery, he developed fistula in the neck showing discharge of consumed food contents. He presented to us 1 year postsurgery with the discharging fistula, left upper-limb weakness, and Horner's syndrome that developed after surgery. The previously unexplored right side was used to remove implant, and owing to solid union at corpectomy, no additional fixation was performed. Intraoperatively, pharyngeal wall dehiscence was observed. Attempt of removal of impinged screw was abandoned since it migrated into the esophagus. Serial abdomen radiographs revealed successive passage of screw through the gastrointestinal (GI) tract until it could not be visualized. As the patient showed reduced discharge, a GI surgeon gave a conservative trial with nasogastric intubation. Currently, fistula is showing minimal discharge with no food. Having knowledge of this possible rare outcome and awareness of various multidisciplinary approaches for management makes practicing spine surgeon equipped to handle such undesirable complications.
“When the Benign Bleed” vestibular schwannomas with clinically significant intratumoral hemorrhage: A case series and review of the literature
Authors: Woo Peter , Lam Pak-Lun , Ip Yuki , Chan Timothy , Ng Oliver , Kwan Marco , Wong Hoi-Tung , Wong Alain , Chan Kwong-Yau
Published: February 2021

Vestibular schwannomas (VSs) are slow-growing benign neoplasms commonly located at the cerebellopontine angle. Although clinically significant hemorrhagic VSs are rarely encountered with only 75 patients previously reported, they could be life threatening. We discuss the presentation and outcomes of three patients with hemorrhagic VS as well as review the literature for this phenomenon. Consecutive adult patients with a histologically proven diagnosis of VS over a 9-year period were retrospectively reviewed. Fifty adult patients were identified with three (6%) having clinically significant intratumoral hemorrhage. This was defined as patients having acute to subacute symptoms with frank radiological evidence of hemorrhage. The mean age of diagnosis was 62 ± 9 years and the male-to female ratio was 2:1. The mean duration of symptoms, namely headache, vertigo, and sensorineural hearing impairment, was 26 ± 4 days with one patient presenting with acute coma. Retrosigmoid craniotomy for tumor resection was performed for all patients. Histopathological examination revealed extensive areas of microhemorrhage with considerable macrophage infiltration. All three patients were discharged with no additional neurological deficit and good functional performance. Clinically significant hemorrhagic VSs are rare, and patients may present with acute to subacute (i.e., within a month) symptoms of hearing loss headache, facial, or trigeminal nerve palsy. Macrophage infiltration is frequently encountered in tumor specimens and reflects the pivotal role of chronic inflammation in their pathophysiology. Surgical resection can lead to good outcomes with timely intervention.
Resolution of idiopathic epidural lipomatosis after bariatric surgery: Case report and literature review
Authors: Alsofyani Mohammad , Alsalmi Sultan , Malaekah Haifaa , Alharthi Majed , Bourghli Anouar , Obeid Ibrahim , Boissière Louis
Published: February 2021

Spinal epidural lipomatosis (SEL) is traditionally a rare disorder defined as an abnormal accumulation of unencapsulated epidural fat. SEL can be classified into idiopathic and secondary. We report a 46-year-old obese male with idiopathic epidural lipomatosis with a clinical picture of bilateral L5 and S1 radiculopathy, with an L5 and S1 distribution. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed epidural lipomatosis at L4, L5, and S1. After 2-year of sleeve gastrectomy, his bilateral sciatic radiculopathy disappeared, and updated MRI showed complete resolution of epidural lipomatosis. We present a case of an unusual epidural lipomatosis, resolved completely by bariatric surgery. This case report set out the effect of metabolic surgery on the local and systemic metabolic process.
Selection of an appropriate surgical method for the management of chronic subdural hematoma in a patient with poor physical status
Authors: Eun Jin , Ahn Jae-Geun
Published: February 2021

Physical status is an important factor to consider when treating patients with chronic subdural hematomas. Surgical treatment of chronic subdural hematoma is mainly by burr hole trephination. However, operative methods must be selected after careful consideration of mortality, morbidity, and recurrence rates. In the case presented here, a chronic subdural hematoma was noted in a 65-year-old patient with several comorbidities; therefore, minimally invasive burr hole trephination was performed. After thrice repetition of the burr hole trephination procedure, a craniectomy for hematoma removal and middle meningeal artery embolization was finally conducted, followed by cranioplasty to treat a subsequent epidural hemorrhage. In the case discussed here, we review the options for the treatment of chronic subdural hematoma and evaluate the factors that should be considered in determining the appropriate surgical course. Despite poor patient physical status, minimally invasive operation may not always be the best option. If the patient is at high risk for recurrent subdural hematoma, craniotomy with hematoma removal may be a better choice.
Fremantle back awareness questionnaire in chronic low back pain (Frebaq-I): Translation and validation in the Indian Population
Authors: Rao Parnandi , Jain Mantu , Barman Apurba , Bansal Sumit , Sahu Rabi , Singh Neha
Published: February 2021

Background: The Fremantle Back Awareness Questionnaire (FreBAQ) has been found to possess adequate psychometric properties in low back pain (LBP) patients worldwide. The aim of this study was to translate the questionnaire into a classical Indian language (Odiya) and validate in the Indian population (FreBAQ-I). Materials and Methods: The English edition of the FreBAQ was transformed into Indian classical language (Odiya). One hundred adult patients with chronic LBP were recruited for psychometric evaluation using Rasch analysis. Demographic parameters, clinical characteristics like pain, Oswestry Disability Index, and Beck's depression inventory were assessed along with responses to the study questionnaire. Results: The FreBAQ-I correlated well with intensity of pain (r = −0.19, P = 0.04), duration of the LBP (r = 0.35, P < 0.001), depression score (r = 0.25, P = 0.012), but not statitistically with disability (r = 0.06, P = 0.49). The fit statistics was neither excessively positive nor negative, and the average agreeability measure of the study participants progressed as presumed across the different categories. Internal consistency of the FreBAQ-I version was found to be good with a person reliability of 0.54 and Cronbach's alpha of 0.91. Conclusions: Patients with greater disturbed body perception are addressed adequately by the questionnaire. All nine items are essential and adequate, which makes the survey complete, although item 2 was found to be endorsed more often. Overall, the FreBAQ-I has suitable psychometric properties in Indian populations with chronic LBP.
Rapid spontaneous resolution of the acute subdural hematoma: Case series and review of literature
Authors: Rathore Lavlesh , Sahana Debabrata , Kumar Sanjeev , Sahu Rajiv , Jain Amit , Tawari Manish , Borde Pravin
Published: February 2021

Background: Traumatic acute subdural hematoma (ASDH) is an oft encountered entity in neurosurgery. While resolution of such thick SDHs usually takes time, certain cases of rapid spontaneous resolution have also been reported. This article attempts to review the pathophysiology, clinical and radiological features of such cases, as well as provide an insight into decision making for their management. Methods: Electronic literature search was done to look for similar cases of spontaneous rapid resolution of ASDH. Five of authors cases have been described. Their clinical and radiological features along with those of cases from literature search were tabulated and analyzed. Results: A total of 44 relevant cases were included for analyses. Of these, 39 cases were from 33 articles found in existing literature and 5 cases were from author's collection. The M:F ratio was 25:19 with a mean age was 41.84(SD-4.094) years. Twenty -six patients showed “Rapid” neurological improvement (</= 24 hours) while “gradual” neurological improvement (>24 hours) occurred in 10 patients. The mean hematoma resolution time on CT scan was 13.78 hours (SD 16.46) ranging from 1- 72 hours. Twenty-nine patients showed redistribution of hematoma, most commonly to tentorium and falx cerebelli. CT scan findings were classified into 5 types as per the nature of hypodensity around hematoma. The geometric mean time to resolution of hematoma was least for type 2 (7.27 hours) and type 1(7.52 hours) patients. Conclusion: Selected patients of ASDH with rapid neurological improvement and specific CT findings may show spontaneous resolution of ASDH. Multicentric studies with larger study population may provide better insight into the nature and outcomes of such entities.
A giant nondural-based lumbosacral clear cell meningioma mimicking schwannoma: A case report and review of the literature
Authors: Gupta Surendra , Nayak Nitish , Gandhoke Charandeep , Gupta Rakesh , Sharma Anil , Singh Prashant , Sharma Raghvendra , Nehete Lokesh
Published: February 2021

Spinal clear cell meningiomas (CCMs) are rare and dural-based lesion usually affecting the younger population. We report the rare case of giant nondural-based spinal CCM mimicking schwannoma and review the literature. A literature search was performed at PubMed and Embase until January 1, 2020. A total of 19 cases of nondural-based spinal CCM was reported. The following relevant data were extracted: authors, publication year, patient and tumor characteristics, treatment, and outcome. The mean age of the presentation was 20.58 years. Twelve (63.16%) were female and seven patients (36.84%) were male. The most common location was lumbosacral region 15 (79%). Fifteen (79%) tumors had cranio-caudal dimension ≤2 vertebral level, and only four (21%) tumors had dimension ≥2 vertebral level. Gross total resection (GTR) was performed in 18 (95%) patients and subtotal resection (STR) in 1 patient. Recurrences were reported in five (26.14%) patients. Four of them showed recurrences within 6 months; earliest at 2.3 months in the patient had undergone STR. Our patient is 19-year-old male diagnosed with a lumbosacral intradural lesion. Craniocaudal dimension is ≥2 vertebral level shows the foraminal extension and vertebral scalloping. GTR is performed. Intraoperatively, the tumor has foraminal extension and shows attachment with right S1S2 nerve root. No dural attachment is found. Six-month follow-up magnetic resonance image shows no evidence of disease. Nondural-based spinal CCMs are extremely rare and should be kept as a differential diagnosis in young patients with giant intradural tumor, and whose radiological features suggesting of schwannoma. It affects young patients and usually involves more than one vertebral level. The chances of recurrences and metastasis are always high even after GTR; hence, close follow-up of the entire neuraxis is warranted.
A case of sellar/suprasellar neurocysticercosis mimicking a craniopharyngioma
Authors: Shakya Sasa , Gurung Pritam , Shrestha Dinuj , Rajbhandhari Pravesh , Pant Basant
Published: February 2021

Neurocysticercosis (NCC) commonly presents with seizures in developing countries such as Nepal. It may also present with raised intracranial pressure due to obstructive hydrocephalus when cyst is located in the fourth ventricle or foramen of Monro. There are four main stages of NCC (1) Vesicular, (2) Colloidal vesicular, (3) Granular nodular, and (4) Nodular calcified. The colloidal vesicular stages can cause arachnoiditis and thus can cause hydrocephalus whereas obstructive hydrocephalus is usually caused by racemose type of NCC. This case was a suprasellar cyst mimicking craniopharyngioma, supported with clinical history of poor visual acuity, endocrine abnormality, suggested radiological findings by computed tomography scan, and magnetic resonance imaging. Suprasellar NCC was confirmed only by intraoperative findings and histopathology report.
Cohort profile: the Ewha Birth and Growth Study
Authors: Lee Hye Ah , Park Bohyun , Min Jungwon , Choi Eun Jeong , Kim Ui Jeong , Park Hyun Jin , Park Eun Ae , Cho Su Jin , Kim Hae Soon , Lee Hwayoung , Kim Young Ju , Hong Young Sun , Kim Eui-Jung , Ha Eun Hee , Park Hyesook
Published: February 2021

With the introduction of life-course epidemiology, researchers realized the importance of identifying risk factors in early life to prevent chronic diseases. This led to the establishment of the Ewha Birth and Growth Study in 2001; the study is a prospective birth cohort designed to provide evidence of early life risk factors for a child’s growth and health. Participants were recruited from those who visited Ewha Womans University Mokdong Hospital (a tertiary hospital in southwest Seoul, Korea) for prenatal care at 24-28 weeks of gestation. In total, 891 mothers enrolled in this study between 2001 and 2006 and their offspring (n=940) were followed-up. Regular check-up examinations of offspring were conducted at 3 years, 5 years, and 7 years of age and every year thereafter. To consider age-related health issues, extensive data were collected using questionnaires and measurements. In 2021, the study subjects will reach 19 years of age, and we are planning a check-up examination for early adulthood. About 20 years have passed since the cohort data were collected, and we have published results on childhood health outcomes associated with prenatal and birth characteristics, genetic and epigenetic characteristics related to childhood metabolism, the effects of exposure to endocrine disruptors, and dietary patterns in childhood. Recently, we started reporting on topics related to adolescent health. The findings will facilitate identification of early life risk factors for chronic diseases and the development of interventions for diseases later in life.
Perceptions of Factors Leading to Teenage Pregnancy in Lindi Region, Tanzania: A Grounded Theory Study
Authors: te Lindert Luka , van der Deijl Maarten , Elirehema Agripa , van Elteren-Jansen Marianne , Chitanda Raynald , van den Akker Thomas
Published: February 2021

High prevalence of teenage pregnancy in low-income countries impacts health, social, economic, and educational situations of teenage girls. To acquire better understanding of factors leading to high prevalence of teenage pregnancy in rural Lindi region, Tanzania, we explored perspectives of girls and key informants by conducting a facility-based explorative qualitative study according to the grounded theory approach. Participants were recruited from Mnero Diocesan Hospital using snowball sampling, between June and September 2018. Eleven pregnant teenagers, two girls without a teenage pregnancy, and eight other key informants were included. In-depth interviews (including photovoice) and field observations were conducted. Analysis of participant perspectives revealed five main themes: 1) lack of individual agency (peer pressure, limited decision-making power, and sexual coercion); 2) desire to earn money and get out of poverty; 3) dropping out of school contributing to becoming pregnant; 4) absence of financial, material, psychological, or emotional support from the environment; and 5) limited access to contraception. A majority of girls reported the pregnancy to be unplanned, whereas some girls purposely planned it. Our findings and the resulting conceptual framework contribute to a new social theory and may inform national and international policies to consider the needs and perspectives of teenagers in delaying pregnancy and promoting sexual and reproductive health in Tanzania and beyond.
From 18S to 28S rRNA Gene: An Improved Targeted Sarcocystidae PCR Amplification, Species Identification with Long DNA Sequences
Authors: Lee Florence C. H. , Muthu Vickneshwaran
Published: February 2021

Sarcocystosis outbreaks in Tioman and Pangkor islands of Malaysia between 2011 and 2014 have raised the need to improve Sarcocystis species detection from environmental samples. In-house works found that published primers amplifying the 18S rRNA gene of Sarcocystis either could not produce the target from environmental samples or produced Sarcocystis DNA sequence that was insufficient for species identification. Using the primer pair of 18S S5 F (published) and 28S R6 R (new), this study improved the PCR amplification of Sarcocystidae to overcome these two difficulties. The PCR product spanned from the 18S to 28S rRNA genes, providing more information for species identification. The long DNA sequence allowed comparison between the “Ident” and “Query Cover” sorting in GenBank identity matching. This revealed the ambiguity in identity matching caused by different lengths of reference DNA sequences, which is seldom discussed in the literature. Using the disparity index test, a measurement of homogeneity in nucleotide substitution pattern, it is shown that the internal transcribed spacer (ITS)1-5.8S-ITS2 and 28S genes are better than the 18S gene in indicating nucleotide variations, implying better potentials for species identification. The example given by the handful of Sarcocystidae long DNA sequences reported herein calls for the need to report DNA sequence from the 18S to the 28S rRNA genes for species identification, especially among emerging pathogens. DNA sequence reporting should include the hypervariable 5.8S and ITS2 regions where applicable, and not be limited to single gene, per the current general trend.
Evaluating the Quality of Tuberculosis Contact Investigation in Cali, Colombia: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Diaz Gustavo , Victoria Angela María , Meyer Amanda J. , Niño Yessenia , Luna Lucy , Ferro Beatriz E. , Davis John Lucian
Published: February 2021

Tuberculosis (TB) contact investigation facilitates earlier TB diagnosis and initiation of preventive therapy, but little data exist about the quality of its implementation. We conducted a retrospective cohort study to evaluate processes of TB contact investigation for index TB patients diagnosed in Cali, Colombia, in 2017, including dropout at each stage and overall yield. We constructed multivariable models to identify predictors of completing 1) the baseline household visit and 2) a follow-up clinic visit for TB evaluation among referred contacts. Sixty-eight percent (759/1,120) of registered TB patients were eligible for contact investigation; 77% (582/759) received a household visit. Odds of completing a household visit were significantly lower among men (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 0.6; 95% CI: 0.4–0.9; P = 0.009) and patients living in Cali’s western zone (aOR: 0.5; 95% CI: 0.3–0.8; P = 0.008). Among 1880 screened contacts, 31% (n = 582) met the criteria for clinic referral, 47% (n = 271) completed a clinic visit, and 85% (231/271) completed testing. After adjusting for clustering by index patient, odds of completing referral were higher among contacts with cough (aOR: 22; 95% CI: 7.1–66; P < 0.001) and contacts living in the western zone (aOR: 4.1; 95% CI: 1.2–15; P = 0.03). The cumulative probability of a symptomatic contact from an eligible household completing TB evaluation was only 28%. The yield of active TB patients among contacts was only 0.3% (5/1880). Only 16% (17/103) of children aged < 5 years and none of the eight persons living with HIV, reported preventive therapy initiation. Routine monitoring of process indicators may facilitate quality improvement to close gaps in contact tracing and increase yield.
Diagnostic Pathways and Delays in Initiation of Treatment among Newly Diagnosed Tuberculosis Patients in Ballabgarh, India
Authors: Chandra Ankit , Kumar Rakesh , Kant Shashi , Krishnan Anand
Published: February 2021

A delay in diagnosis and initiation of treatment in patients with tuberculosis (TB) can affect the period of communicability and cost of treatment. We aimed to describe the diagnostic pathways and delays in initiation of treatment among drug-sensitive newly diagnosed TB patients in Ballabgarh, India. In May 2019, we interviewed 110 TB patients who were put on treatment in the past 2 months. It was a cross-sectional study where data collection was conducted by a physician. We used a structured questionnaire to collect the information on care-seeking practices, delays, and patient’s cost. Descriptive analysis was carried out for the pathways, delays, and patient cost. The mean number of health facility contacted before the diagnosis of TB was 2.8 (SD: 1.3); 76% of patients first sought care at a private health facility. The median total delay was 34.5 (IQR: 21–60) days; median patient delay seven (IQR: 2–21) days, median health system delay 16 (IQR: 8–45) days, median diagnostic delay 32.5 (IQR: 18–57) days, and median treatment delay two (IQR: 1–3) days. Health system delay was 2.2 times longer than patient delay; the health system delay was primarily due to delay in diagnosis. Patients contacting private health facility first had 1.7 times total delay, 2.4 times longer health system delay, and 3.4 times of direct cost compared with patients contacting a public health facility first. Accelerated efforts are needed to achieve India’s target to eliminate TB by 2025.
Age-Dependent Evaluation of Immunoglobulin G Response after Chikungunya Virus Infection
Authors: Patil Harshad P. , Gosavi Mrunal , Mishra Akhilesh C. , Arankalle Vidya A.
Published: February 2021

Current chikungunya antibody prevalence and titers are likely to differ based on the exposure rates before the 2006 reemergence in India. For vaccine usage, such data are of immense importance. This study addresses age-stratified IgG titers and its subtypes in Pune, India, endemic for the disease. 170 age-stratified serum pools from 791 individuals with prior chikungunya exposure, and 15 samples from acute disease phase were analyzed. An indirect ELISA based on inactivated chikungunya virus was used to determine anti-CHIKV-IgG and its subtypes. Neutralizing antibody titers (plaque reduction neutralization test [PRNT]) were compared with binding antibody titers (ELISA). Anti–CHIKV-IgG titers along with IgG1 and IgG4 increased till the age-group of until 11–15 years and remained comparable thereafter till > 65 years. IgG1 was the predominant IgG subtype detected in all the pools, whereas IgG4 was present in 151/170 pools. Strong positive correlation of IgG1 was obtained with CHIKV–PRNT50 titers. None of the sample had anti–CHIKV-IgG2, whereas five pools had IgG3 antibody. In the acute-phase serum sample, IgG1 was present in all the samples, whereas IgG4 was present in 8/15 samples. IgG4 was predominant in four samples. During acute phase and at different times postinfection, IgG1 circulated in high titers followed by IgG4. Higher antibody titers in adults reflect reexposures. The data will prove useful in assessing immune response to CHIKV vaccine in relation to IgG subtype.