bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of homogenization methods on lichen species detection from environmental DNA metabarcoding
Authors: Sakata Ayumi , Minamoto Toshifumi , Sado Tetsuya , Miya Masaki
Published: December 2024

Environmental DNA (eDNA) techniques are increasingly employed in biodiversity monitoring of terrestrial animals, plants, and fungi, holding great potential to revolutionize biodiversity assessments on land. However, sampling and basic laboratory protocols still require refinement to optimize DNA metabarcoding performance. Homogenization as a pretreatment for eDNA extraction is known to enhance the concentration and quality of extracted eDNA for some groups of organisms. We developed a simple and efficient method for capturing arboreal biodiversity using stemflow as a source of eDNA; however, its performance with or without homogenization had not yet been compared. In this study, we evaluated the performance of two different homogenization methods using eDNA metabarcoding and qPCR assays. Metabarcoding analyses revealed that the method without homogenization detected the fewest species, while nearly identical and higher numbers of species were detected in samples subjected to bead-beating and frozen bead-beating homogenization. Similarly, qPCR analyses revealed that the method without homogenization yielded the lowest DNA concentration, while nearly identical and higher DNA yields were observed for bead-beating and frozen bead-beating homogenization. These findings suggest that, considering cost and effort, the bead-beating method without freezing is the most advantageous.
Modified artificial fish swarm algorithm to solve unrelated parallel machine scheduling problem under fuzzy environment
Authors: Ibadi Azhar Mahdi , Rahman Rosshairy Abd
Published: December 2024

Unrelated parallel machine scheduling problem (UPMSP) in a fuzzy environment is an active research area due to the fuzzy nature of most real-world problems. UPMSP is an NP-hard problem; thus, finding optimal solutions is challenging, particularly when multiple objectives need to be considered. Hence, a metaheuristic algorithm based on a modified artificial fish swarm algorithm (AFSA) is presented in this study to minimize the multi-objective makespan and total tardiness. Three modifications were made to the proposed algorithm. First, aspiration behavior was added to AFSA behaviors to increase effectiveness. Second, improved parameters such as step and visual were used to balance global search capability and convergence rate. Finally, a transformation method was injected to make the algorithm suitable for discrete optimization problems such as UPMSP. The proposed algorithm was compared with AFSA and five modified versions of AFSA to verify and measure the algorithm's effectiveness by conducting three different sizes of problems. Afterward, the Wilcoxon signed-rank test was used to statistically evaluate the algorithm's performance. The results indicate that the proposed algorithm significantly outperformed the other algorithms, especially for medium and large-sized problems.
La représentation des tueries de soldats en déroute dans le monde grec (VIe-IVe siècles)
Authors: Laffon Amarande
Published: December 2024

Une tuerie de soldats en déroute constitue-t-elle une forme de massacre ? L’étude présente les motifs littéraires qui, dans les représentations anciennes des batailles hoplitiques du VIe au IVe siècle av. J.-C., confèrent à certains carnages de soldats en déroute les traits du massacre et paraissent justifier leur intégration dans une typologie des massacres.
Le massacre des Innocents ou comment réécrire l’histoire
Authors: Parmentier Édith
Published: December 2024

Le « massacre des Innocents », commis par le roi Hérode de Judée, est un événement dont la célébrité tient autant à la fascination exercée par un tel acte de barbarie qu’au rôle fonctionnel joué dans la littérature chrétienne par cet épisode qui fixe la date de naissance de Jésus. L’article montre que ce massacre n’a aucune existence historique. La démonstration procède par une analyse des sources elles-mêmes et par leur contextualisation historique. Sont d’abord étudiées les contradictions et les manipulations textuelles dont l’événement a fait l’objet dans la tradition chrétienne. On envisage ensuite le cadre historique des royaumes hellénistiques du Proche-Orient, dont les pratiques dynastiques brutales ont autorisé la vraisemblance d’un meurtre d’enfants en Judée. Enfin, l’environnement culturel gréco-romain qui a transmis cette fiction dans l’Antiquité en a fait un lieu commun, amalgamant des thématiques d’origines diverses selon le phénomène propre aux légendes noires. Ces mécanismes ont favorisé, à l’époque moderne, le réinvestissement symbolique par la mémoire collective d’un massacre qui n’a jamais eu lieu.
L’identifiant numérique en Inde. Le modèle des fondations d’entreprise
Authors: Belorgey Nicolas
Published: December 2024

Ce texte porte sur l’identifiant numérique indien, nommé « Aadhaar », qui vise à enregistrer biométriquement l’intégralité de la population indienne, i.e. en 2023 environ 1,43 milliard de personnes. Environ 95 % de cette population, soit 1,36 milliard de personnes, auraient été enrôlées alors dans le dispositif, par ailleurs exporté dans de nombreux pays du Sud et frappant à la porte du Nord. Plus précisément, le rôle des fondations d’entreprise dans la genèse de cet identifiant est ici examiné. Tout d’abord, le texte dépeint leur modèle économique, qui se déploie en trois temps : accumulation initiale par l’entreprise mère, investissements « à but non lucratif » par une ou des fondations, afin de permettre une nouvelle phase d’accumulation. Le texte retrace ensuite les cas de Microsoft, d’Infosys et d’eBay, toutes trois impliquées dans la bataille du déploiement de l’identifiant indien.
Anthropologie philosophique et critique culturelle
Authors: Quéré Louis
Published: December 2024

Dans cet article je présente et discute l'ouvrage de Roberta Dreon, Human Landscapes: Contributions to a Pragmatic Anthropology (Suny Press, 2022). Je le fais à partir de deux questions. La première concerne les avantages d'une anthropologie pragmatiste par rapport à des tentatives similaires, inspirées soit de la phénoménologie post-husserlienne (notamment les recherches actuelles sur le caractère incarné de l'esprit et de la cognition), soit de l'herméneutique philosophique. La seconde question porte sur la contribution possible d'une anthropologie philosophique à une critique culturelle, c'est-à-dire à la critique d’erreurs, de confusions, et d’illusions existant dans notre manière moderne de penser, dans les idéaux que nous nous sommes donnés, dans nos habitudes collectives et dans nos “imaginaires sociaux.”
Placing Culture in Nature
Authors: Nunziante Antonio M.
Published: December 2024

Focusing on early twentieth-century American anthropological discourse, this paper examines diverse epistemological approaches to integrating culture within a naturalistic framework. Leslie Alvin White’s materialistic and energy-based “culturology” will be contrasted with Louis Kroeber’s emergentist perspective. Through a detailed examination of some key epistemic stances, I will illustrate how American cultural anthropology grappled with the dual pressures of scientific naturalism and the epistemic autonomy of the cultural world. The conclusion argues for distinguishing between “naturalized culture” and “naturalization of culture,” suggesting that within this distinction, naturalism reveals not merely as a philosophical stance, but as a historically contingent phenomenon.
The Entanglement of Ethics and Anthropology
Authors: Manchisi Armando
Published: December 2024

The idea of self-realization is one of the most significant points of intersection between ethics and philosophical anthropology, the disciplines that study, respectively, human conduct and human nature. An examination of this idea, therefore, allows us to shed light on these two fields and their entanglement. In this article I present two possible accounts of self-realization: the Essentialist Account, which understands it as the actualization of an intrinsic potential, and the Interactionist Account, which conceives it as the successful interaction between an individual and her environment. My goal is to argue for the Interactionist Account, in the comprehensive version developed by John Dewey. To do so, I proceed as follows: I introduce the Essentialist Account; I present Dewey’s alternative, by examining first the Outlines of a Critical Theory of Ethics and then some major later works, thereby showing the continuity (and discontinuity) of his conception of self-realization, or growth, throughout his career; after a closer comparison between the Interactionist Account and the Essentialist Account, I finally clarify the relevance of Dewey’s view for understanding the entanglement between ethics and anthropology.
La place du paysage et des jardins dans les politiques et projets d’urbanisme à Alger
Authors: Trodi Fares , Donadieu Pierre
Published: December 2024

À partir des réalisations de la période post-indépendance de l’Algérie (1962-1990), et des impératifs socio-économiques adoptés durant cette même période, l’article analyse la mise en œuvre des politiques publiques de qualité des paysages urbains et des espaces verts à Alger. Il s’appuie sur les discours des urbanistes et sur les projets d’urbanisme, tout en retraçant les moments importants de l’histoire de construction du pays à travers trois périodes (1962-1967 ; 1967-1979 ; 1980-1990). Il explique les résultats modestes obtenus par la priorité politique donnée aux logements et à la mobilité urbaine. L’absence de formation et de recours aux compétences des architectes paysagistes en Algérie est mise en relation avec l’interprétation des projets de paysage urbain.
Le virus et le foyer
Authors: Canut Inès , Chevalier Dominique
Published: December 2024

En s’inscrivant dans le champ de la géographie domestique et de la géographie du corps, cet article entend apporter, à une échelle micro-locale, de nouvelles pistes de réflexion sur l’expérience quotidienne variée du premier confinement (du 17 mars au 11 mai 2020) à partir d’un échantillon particulier de la population, les classes intellectuelles. L’analyse du questionnaire CoViDomestiC, diffusé pendant cette période, permet de mettre en évidence, entre bricolages et adoptions de protocoles minutieux, les stratégies spatiales de défense face à l’irruption d’une crise sanitaire au sein de l’espace domestique. Cette réponse spatiale à la crise, permise par des conditions de confinement confortables, s’est accompagnée chez les enquêté.es d’une remise en question de leur rapport à l’espace public et de leurs stratégies résidentielles.
La pensée de Gorz : un modèle social et politique possible dans et en dehors de l’école à l’ère du changement climatique ?
Authors: Chauvigné Céline
Published: December 2024

André Gorz (1923-2007) philosophe, grand penseur innovant de la critique de la société capitaliste, fondateur de l’écologie politique propose, par sa approche radicale, des possibles pour défendre « le monde vécu » face à la catastrophe climatique qui sévit depuis les années 1960. En quoi, cette figure avant-gardiste constitue-t-elle une figure inspirante pour la jeunesse aujourd’hui dans et hors l’école pour penser, préserver et imaginer aujourd’hui une vie sur Terre ? Des modèles gorziens aux pratiques juvéniles quelles conditions de possibilité entrevoir pour répondre aux défis contemporains et la vie collective sur Terre ?
John Dewey : la démocratie comme forme de vie et ses implications éducatives.
Authors: Fabre Michel
Published: December 2024

L’idée de démocratie est un des fils conducteurs de la pensée de Dewey. Elle reçoit chez lui trois significations fondamentales. Elle désigne un régime politique, mais aussi une forme de vie et plus fondamentalement encore, elle se confond avec l’éducation comme auto-contrôle. Comment ces trois sens s’articulent-ils ? Et quelle est l’incidence de ces conceptions sur la démocratie à l’école ? L’hypothèse de Westbroock dans son ouvrage John Dewey and American Democracy (1991) est que Dewey, en quittant l’université de Chicago, se serait détourné progressivement de la réflexion pédagogique sur la démocratie dans l'éducation au profit d’une réflexion politique plus large sur les rapports de la démocratie et de l’éducation. D’où l’impression d’un « chaînon manquant » entre philosophie de l’éducation et réflexion pédagogique concrète. Cet article met à l’épreuve ces hypothèses en confrontant des écrits philosophiques et pédagogiques des Later Works des années 1925-1953 à ceux des Middle Works (surtout ceux des années 1910-1920). Il met en évidence la continuité d’une réflexion philosophique et pédagogique sur la démocratie à l’école, mais qui, dans la dernière période semble en rester au niveau des principes, sans aborder précisément sa mise en œuvre concrète.
Francisco Ferrer, une figure inspirante pour les mouvements de rénovation pédagogique de la transition démocratique espagnole ? (1975-1978)
Authors: Morzadec Cécile
Published: December 2024

Cet article se propose d’interroger la place de la figure de Francisco Ferrer y Guardia, ainsi que son modèle d’école moderne, dans la mémoire collective espagnole au moment de la mort de Franco en 1975, en combinant analyse textuelle et entretiens oraux inédits. Après avoir rapidement esquissé les contours du programme de l’École Moderne pour déterminer dans quelle mesure elle constitue un exemple d’éducation socialisante, nous prendrons appui sur quatre revues pédagogiques ainsi que sur cinq préfaces publiées entre 1975 et 1978 pour examiner les résurgences de la figure de Ferrer et la manière dont elles sont revisitées au regard d’un nouveau contexte historique, politique et éducatif. Des témoignages recueillis entre 2021 et 2022 auprès d’acteurs de la rénovation pédagogique espagnole nous permettront de compléter nos observations en nous questionnant notamment sur la place de Ferrer dans la formation des enseignants, sur l’adéquation de ses propositions pédagogiques avec les pratiques enseignantes, ainsi que sur les différentes voies d’accès à son œuvre après des années d’invisibilisation de l’époque franquiste.
Fernand Oury, figure inspirante ou identificatoire ?
Authors: Dubois Arnaud , Canac Frédéric , Geffard Patrick
Published: December 2024

Les auteurs proposent une réflexion sur la notion de « figure inspirante » et sa pertinence à propos de Fernand Oury, cofondateur de la pédagogie institutionnelle. S’inscrivant dans une approche clinique d’orientation psychanalytique, ils proposent de considérer ce pédagogue davantage comme une « figure identificatoire ». Plutôt que de se focaliser sur une figure individuelle, ils suggèrent que les monographies de la pédagogie institutionnelle sont « inspirantes ». L’analyse d’un texte publié par F. Oury permet de montrer que dès les origines, la pédagogie institutionnelle est porteuse d’une forme de « socialisation démocratique » susceptible de remettre en cause la « forme scolaire ».
Skin Cancer Prediction Using Soft Networking and Quantum Networking Approaches
Authors: Kavitha A. , Karthiga C.
Published: December 2024

Cancer is one of the deadly condition brought up by the unchecked and unwanted growth of body cells and tissues.Cancer has been described as the most dangerous problem which is affecting the people.Every year the death rate of cancer is increasing.The cancer may affect the cells which are in any part of our human body.This may cause serious infection to the trillions of cells in our body.Skin cancer will widespread at a particular time.Skin cancer is a type of cancer that involves the growth of abnormal cells in your skin tissues.The best solution for treating the skin cancer is machine learning and deep learning with Quantum Networking techniques.An ensembled network depending on the integration of DeepConvNet and handcrafted features based on multi-layer feature is proposed in this work to further enhance the efficiency of the DeepConvNet models.The Quantum Networking based classifier is used to classify the cancerous images.A skin lesion segmentation Multi-Scale Attention U-Net (MSAU-Net) & Resnet-18 is used in this paper.
A VERTICALIZAÇÃO URBANA EM AGUDO, RIO GRANDE DO SUL, BRASIL, EM 2022
Authors: Binder Thomas Gabriel , Spode Pedro Leonardo Cezar , Batista Natália Lampert , Rizzatti Maurício
Published: December 2024

A verticalização é um processo recente que altera a paisagem urbana das cidades. Este processo ocorre em todas as escalas de cidades, metrópoles, cidades médias e, mais recentemente, os pequenos núcleos urbanos. Nesse sentido, a temática deste trabalho está ligada à reprodução do processo de verticalização urbana na pequena cidade de Agudo, na região central do estado do Rio Grande do Sul, tendo como base alguns questionamentos: por que razão uma pequena cidade, com espaços que ainda permitiriam uma expansão horizontal, tem-se avolumado o fenômeno da verticalização e concentração de edifícios verticais, sobretudo na porção central? Dessa maneira, portanto, este trabalho tem como objetivo geral analisar o processo de verticalização na área urbana de Agudo, RS, no ano de 2022. Como procedimentos metodológicos, utilizou-se mapeamento do uso do solo do município de Agudo, como também o processo de geolocalização dos edifícios na área urbana, através do software QGIS versão 3.16.14. Soma-se, no total, 54 edifícios verticais na área urbana de Agudo, concentrados, principalmente, na Avenida Concórdia (18 edifícios), na região central da cidade. O processo de verticalização, em grande parte, se realiza a partir do capital agrário, investido na área urbana da cidade, na produção de edifícios, condomínios e outros empreendimentos urbanos, ligados ao ramo imobiliário.
Fabrication of Carbonate Apatite Bone Substitute Coating on Titanium and its Initial Cellular Response
Authors: Nguyen Duc Huan , Bui Duc Long , Nguyen Anh Son , Le Thi Bang
Published: December 2024

In this study, carbonate apatite [Ca10-x(PO4)6-y(CO3)z(OH)2-x-y-z, CHAp], a bone substitute material, was coated on roughened titanium through a sol-gel hydrothermal method. The sol-gel process was used to prepare calcium tartaric complexes, which were then subsequently hydrothermally treated on titanium in the presence of sodium hydroxide, and sodium hydrogen phosphate. The results showed that carbonate apatite, composed of nanosized fibers, was evenly deposited across the titanium surface. This coating resulted in a lower surface roughness (Ra) value of 1.31 μm compared to 3.98 μm for uncoated titanium. Additionally, the carbonate apatite coating decreased the contact angles of the titanium surface, thereby significantly enhancing cell attachment and migration compared to the uncoated surface. These results could be valuable for further evaluation of this coating in biomedical applications.
Enhancing the Thermal Conductivity of 1-OD/Indium Composite Phase Change Material for Thermal Energy Storage
Authors: Pashayi Kamyar , Kolonko Kristopher J.
Published: December 2024

In this study, the effects of processing temperatures of indium nanoparticles (In NPs) on the thermal conductivity (κ) of an organic phase change material (PCM) were investigated. 1-octadecanol (1-OD) also known as stearyl alcohol, with chemical formula C18H38O was selected as the organic PCM. Surface of Indium nanoparticles are functionalized with polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) to promote particles dispersion in 1-OD medium. Experimental analysis showed that for the In NPs/1-OD composite phase change material (CPCM) with a ~12 vol.% (~55 wt.%) of In NPs loading, specific melting latent heat (Lm) of the mixture is 103.1 J/g (~41.5% Lm,1-OD). This value is proportional to weight % loading of 1-OD (~45 wt.%) in the mixture. The κ versus processing temperature graph showed a turning point between 100 °C and 110 °C reaching a κ = 2.56 ± 0.07 W/mk at this processing temperature range. This is ~ 6.74-fold higher than κ of the 1-OD organic PCM matrix at 0.38 ± 0.01 W/mK. This is due to formation of high aspect ratio (length/diameter) conductive network pathways of In NPs in 1-OD organic PCM.
Calcium Alginate-Glycerol Gel as an Organic Matrix to Induce the Mineralisation and Growth of Calcium Carbonate as a New Eco-Friendly Binder Composite
Authors: Santos Olivia de Souza Heleno , Tian Wendy , Tse Kwong Ming , Li Ya Li
Published: December 2024

Natural carbonated composites are formed by calcium carbonate crystals embedded within an organic matrix that the living organism excretes. In this study, a solvent made with sodium alginate, glycerol and sodium hydroxide was used to promote the mineralisation of biomimetic calcium carbonate. Carbon dioxide was captured and stored as a carbonate binder composite, and the cementitious mechanism toward sand particles was revealed. The binder composite comprises amorphous calcium carbonate, calcium alginate-glycerol gel and calcite. Organic additives were crucial to promote the mineralisation of the most stable calcium carbonate polymorph, calcite. The final calcite crystals presented a peanut-like shape, detached from a structured sea urchin-like particle. An estimated 0.15 tonne of carbon dioxide could be permanently stored in 1 tonne of the biomimetic calcium carbonate and sand composite. The composite block presented a compressive strength and elastic modulus of 0.85 and 21.3 MPa, respectively. It is believed that the cementitious mechanism of the carbonate binder composite is formed through the crystallisation of amorphous calcium carbonate (ACC) embedded inside a three-dimensional organic gel enriched with calcium ions into calcite. Hence, calcium carbonate mineralisation mediated by sodium alginate and glycerol introduces new possibilities to create a novel, more sustainable, environmentally friendly binder material.
Revolutionizing Antibacterial Material Production across Diverse Applications through Enhanced Fused Deposition Modeling Innovation
Authors: Ahmed Waleed , Al-Marzouqi Ali H. , Zaneldin Essam , Rizvi Tahir A. , Khan Mushtaq
Published: December 2024

There is an urgent necessity to develop affordable, eco-friendly, and biodegradable materials to combat bacterial threats using innovative techniques and combinations. Fused Deposition Modeling is the most efficient and economical method for creating complex bi-metallic composites, which have demonstrated extraordinary antibacterial properties against common strains. This study investigates the antibacterial efficacy of two sets of biodegradable bi-materials consisting of PLA/Copper, one time by incorporating PLA/Stainless Steel and the other time PLA/Aluminum. The findings revealed that both sets exhibited outstanding antibacterial effectiveness within a concise period of less than ten minutes. Consequently, 3D-printed polymeric composites infused with metallic particles hold promise for various applications, including construction, biomedical applications, food packaging, and tissue engineering. Moreover, these composite materials offer sustainable solutions for public spaces and hospitals, where surface contact is frequent, contributing to a cleaner and safer environment.
Construction Materials - How to Protect Living Organisms from Electromagnetic Radiation
Authors: Tsapko Nataliia , Shabanova Galina , Logvinkov Sergey , Myrgorod Oksana , Pirohov Oleksandr
Published: December 2024

The main principles of objects of living nature protection from the influence of electromagnetic radiation have been studied. An analysis of various types of protective screens, structures and materials used for their manufacture was carried out. It is proposed to use special concretes based on barium-containing cement with barium hexaferrite aggregate as structural materials to protect the environment from the effects of electromagnetic radiation.
A study of N-acetyltransferase 2 gene polymorphisms in the Indian population and its relationship with serum isoniazid concentrations in a cohort of tuberculosis patients
Authors: Munshi Renuka , Panchal Falguni , Desai Unnati , Utpat Ketaki , Rajoria Kirti
Published: December 2024

The N-acetyltransferase 2 (NAT2) gene exhibits substantial genetic diversity, leading to distinct acetylator phenotypes among individuals. In this study, we determine NAT2 gene polymorphisms in tuberculosis (TB) patients and analyze serum isoniazid (INH) concentrations across the various genotypes. An observational prospective cohort study involving 217 patients with pulmonary or extrapulmonary TB was carried out. The NAT2 genotypes were identified using real-time polymerase chain reaction technology. INH concentrations at baseline and 2 hours post-dosing were estimated using high-performance liquid chromatography. The association between the acetylator status and INH concentrations was evaluated using odds ratios (OR) and the occurrence of adverse events across the different patient genotypes was also assessed. The genotype frequency of fast, intermediate, and slow acetylators was 7.37%, 39.17%, and 53.46%, respectively, while allele frequency was 27% for fast acetylators and 73% for slow acetylators. All the alleles followed the Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium. Patients with slow acetylator status had significantly increased serum INH concentrations 2 hours post-drug administration, followed by intermediate acetylators as compared to fast acetylators. 69 (31.8%) patients developed adverse drug reactions post-therapy. Patients with slow acetylator status had the highest (OR: 9.66) risk of developing drug-induced hepatoxicity, especially those with raised serum INH concentrations (OR: 1.34). Understanding the correlation between genetics and serum antitubercular drug levels in antitubercular drug-induced hepatotoxicity will provide valuable information to the medical community, minimizing the risk of adverse reactions and hospitalizations.
Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency among tribal populations of India - Country scenario
Authors: Mukherjee Malay B. , Colah Roshan B. , Martin Snehal , Ghosh Kanjaksha
Published: December 2024

It is believed that the tribal people, who constitute 8.6 per cent of the total population (2011 census of India), are the original inhabitants of India. Glucose-6-phosphate-dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency is an X-linked genetic defect, affecting around 400 million people worldwide and is characterized by considerable biochemical and molecular heterogeneity. Deficiency of this enzyme is highly polymorphic in those areas where malaria is/has been endemic. G6PD deficiency was reported from India more than 50 years ago. The prevalence varies from 2.3 to 27.0 per cent with an overall prevalence of 7.7 per cent in different tribal groups. Since the tribal populations live in remote areas where malaria is/has been endemic, irrational use of antimalarial drugs could result in an increased number of cases with drug induced haemolysis. Therefore, before giving antimalarial therapy, routine screening for G6PD deficiency should be undertaken in those tribal communities where its prevalence is high.
Malaria situation in India with special reference to tribal areas
Authors: Sharma Ravendra K. , Thakor H.G. , Saha K.B. , Sonal G.S. , Dhariwal A.C. , Singh Neeru
Published: December 2024

Background & objectives:

In India, malaria is a major public health problem in States having predominantly tribal population. The objective of this analysis was to find out the incidence of malaria in various States/districts having varied proportions of tribal population using National Vector Borne Disease Control Programme (NVBDCP) data.

Methods:

States and districts were classified into three categories based on proportions of Scheduled Tribes (ST) population as <10, 10-29.9 and 30 per cent + ST population. Five year average (2008-2012) of all important malaria indicators collected by NVBDCP was taken to normalize the effect of annual fluctuations in malaria incidence.

Results:

State level analysis revealed that ten States/UTs with 30 per cent or more tribal population comprising only three per cent of total population, contributed 14 per cent of total malaria, 21 per cent Plasmodium falciparum and 29 per cent of deaths due to malaria. Similarly, district level analysis showed that districts with 30 per cent or more tribal population comprising about eight per cent country's population contributed to 46 per cent of total malaria cases, 70 per cent P. falciparum and 47 per cent malarial deaths in the country.

Interpretation & conclusions:

Our analysis showed that the neglect of the ethnic communities in tribal areas would be detrimental to the overall reduction of morbidity and mortality due to malaria. The fight against the increasing burden of malaria in tribal belt requires adoption of multiple approaches and socio-economic development of the tribal communities.
Health literacy on tuberculosis amongst vulnerable segment of population
Authors: Muniyandi M. , Rao V.G. , Bhat J. , Yadav R. , Sharma R.K. , Bhondeley M.K.
Published: December 2024

Background & objectives:

Health literacy on tuberculosis (TB) is an understanding about TB to perform activities with regard to prevention, diagnosis and treatment. We undertook a study to assess the health literacy on TB among one of the vulnerable tribal groups (Saharia) in central India.

Methods:

In this cross-sectional study, 2721 individuals aged >15 yr from two districts of Madhya Pradesh State of India were interviewed at their residence during December 2012-July 2013. By using a short-form questionnaire, health literacy on cause, symptoms, mode of transmission, diagnosis, treatment and prevention of TB was assessed.

Results:

Of the 2721 (Gwalior 1381; Shivpuri 1340) individuals interviewed; 76 per cent were aged <45 yr. Living condition was very poor (62% living in huts/katcha houses, 84 per cent with single room, 89 per cent no separate kitchen, 97 per cent used wood/crop as a fuel). Overall literacy rate was 19 per cent, and 22 per cent had >7 members in a house. Of the 2721 respondents participated, 52 per cent had never heard of TB; among them 8 per cent mentioned cough as a symptom, 64 per cent mentioned coughing up blood, and 91 per cent knew that TB diagnosis, and treatment facilities were available in both government and private hospitals. Health literacy score among participants who had heard of TB was <40 per cent among 36 per cent of respondents, 41-60 per cent among 54 per cent and >60 per cent among 8 per cent of respondents.

Interpretation & conclusions:

The finding that nearly half of the respondents had not heard of TB indicated an important gap in education regarding TB in this vulnerable population. There is an urgent need to implement targeted interventions to educate this group for better TB control.
Renal Involvement in Diffuse Large B-cell Lymphoma
Authors: Saini Shashikant , Sethi Jasmine , Subramani Vignesh , Mathur Yamini , Mitra Suvradeep
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACT

The association between renal disease and hematolymphoid neoplasms is increasingly recognized, with kidneys often affected through mechanisms such as acute tubular necrosis, tumor lysis syndrome, and lymphocytic infiltration of kidney parenchyma (LIK). This case report presents a male patient in his fifties with no previous comorbidities, who initially presented with fever, abdominal pain, weight loss, and pedal edema, leading to the discovery of bilateral obstructive nephropathy. Imaging revealed conglomerated retroperitoneal mass infiltrating the pancreas, small bowel loops, bilateral kidneys, and ureter. A diagnosis of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma was made following a biopsy of the retroperitoneal mass, and the patient was started on R-mini-CHOP chemotherapy. Despite initial stabilization of renal function, the patient was lost to follow-up.
Varied Presentations and Clinical Outcomes of Proliferative Glomerulonephritis with Monoclonal Immunoglobulin Deposit: An Indian Series of Five Patients
Authors: Chakrabarti Uttayan , Chaturvedy Manish , Majumdar Arghya , Bajpai Nitin Kumar , Nalwa Aasma , Das Tapabrata , Agarwal Arpit , Jhorawat Rajesh
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACT

Background:

Proliferative glomerulonephritis with monoclonal immunoglobulin deposits (PGNMIDs) is a unique and rare entity which can have a variety of presentations ranging from nephrotic syndrome to rapidly progressive renal failure (RPRF). The data about this entity are sparse worldwide and there is hardly any robust literature from India.

Methods:

A retrospective analysis of 320 patients undergoing native kidney biopsy from August 2021 to August 2024 in the Department of Nephrology, AIIMS Jodhpur, was done and 5 cases of PGNMID constituting 1.25% of the native kidney biopsies and 33% of biopsy proven monoclonal gammopathy of renal significance (15 cases) were analyzed.

Results:

The mean age of presentation was 48 years with a female preponderance (80%). The mean estimated glomerular filtration rate at presentation was 34.6 ml/min/1.73 m2 with 60% patients presenting as RPRF, the mean proteinuria being 5.8 g/day. None of the patients had paraproteinemia. On histopathology, membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis was seen in 2 (40%), endocapillary hypercellularity in 2 (40%) and membranous pattern in 1 (20%), with 3 (60%) patients showing crescents. Immunofluorescence showed deposits of immunoglobulin G (IgG) kappa in 4 (80%) and IgG lambda restriction in 1 (20%). Electron microscopy done in 2 of the 5 patients showed subepithelial deposits in one and subendothelial deposits in the other. Therapeutic response was varied. The patient with membranous pattern had an indolent course with just anti-proteinuric measures. Cyclophosphamide–bortezomib–dexamethasone was administered in two patients, being ineffective in both. Rituximab resulted in complete remission in one patient. The outcome in others were unfavorable, 2 (40%) had persistent renal dysfunction while 2 (40%) progressed to end-stage renal disease.

Conclusion:

PGNMID is a distinct entity whose clinical profile may be varied. Chemotherapy has been found to improve outcomes, however, larger prospective randomized multicenter studies are mandated to define the optimal therapeutic approach and duration of treatment.
Faecal microbiota of healthy adults in south India
Authors: Ramadass Balamurugan , Rani B. Sandya , Pugazhendhi Srinivasan , John K.R. , Ramakrishna Balakrishnan S.
Published: December 2024

Background & objectives:

The relevance of the gut microbiota to human health is increasingly appreciated. The objective of this study was to compare the gut microbiota of a group of adult tribals with that of healthy adult villagers in Tamil Nadu, India.

Methods:

Faeces were collected from 10 healthy tribal adults (TAs) in the Jawadhi hills and from 10 healthy villagers [rural adults (RAs)] in Vellore district, Tamil Nadu. DNA was extracted, and 456 bp segments comprising hypervariable regions 3 and 4 of the 16S rRNA gene were amplified, barcoded and 454 sequenced.

Results:

Totally 227,710 good-quality reads were analyzed. TAs consumed a millets-based diet, ate pork every day, and did not consume milk or milk products. RAs consumed a rice-based diet with meat intake once a week. In both groups, Firmicutes was the most abundant phylum, followed by Proteobacteria, Bacteroidetes and Actinobacteria. The median Firmicutes-to-Bacteroidetes ratio was 34.0 in TA and 92.9 in RA groups. Actinobacteria were significantly low in TA, possibly due to non-consumption of milk. Clostridium constituted the most abundant genus in both groups, but was significantly more abundant in TAs than RAs, while Streptococcus was significantly more abundant in RA (P<0.05). Analyses of genetic distance revealed that the microbiota were distinctly different between TA and RA, and principal component analysis using 550 distinct taxonomically identifiable sequences revealed a clear separation of microbiota composition in the two groups. Phylogenetic analysis of major microbiota indicated clustering of microbial groups at different major branch points for TAs and RAs.

Interpretation & conclusions:

Phylum Firmicutes and genus Clostridium constituted the bulk of the faecal microbiota, while significant differences in composition between the groups were probably due to differences in diet and lifestyle.
Pulmonary Arterial Hemodynamic Assessment by Pulmonary Pulse Transit Time before and after Balloon Mitral Valvuloplasty
Authors: Abdelmordy Abdallah Mohamed Saeed , Serag Amany Ragab Mahmoud , Elkhalek Mohamed Yahia Abd , Zein Fatma Elzahraa Abdelmonem
Published: December 2024

Background:

Transthoracic echocardiography remains a crucial diagnostic tool for the identification of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH). We eagerly await the novel noninvasive techniques development that significantly advances our knowledge of the pulmonary circulation and right ventricle.

Objective:

The objective of this study was to assess pulmonary arterial hemodynamics using pulmonary pulse transit time (pPTT) following balloon mitral valvuloplasty (BMV).

Patients and Methods:

Thirty-three patients with moderate-to-severe mitral stenosis (MS) with varying pulmonary hypertension degree who were presented to the National Heart Institute to do percutaneous mitral balloon valvuloplasty. Participants were evaluated for their echocardiographic variables including the pPTT, and they were followed up immediately, 1 week, 1 month, and 6 months after BMV.

Results:

The study demonstrated a significant and progressive improvement in the right ventricular fractional area change and the tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (TAPSE) following BMV; on the other hand, the pulmonary artery systolic pressure demonstrated a significant decrease postprocedure and during the follow-up period. On analysis, we found a significant change observed in pPTT values postprocedure (P < 0.001). This value showed a significant reduction immediately following the procedure and the decline continued over the subsequent follow-up periods. Each of these postprocedure measurements showed a significant decrease from the baseline (P < 0.001).

Conclusion:

The pPTT was high in postcapillary pulmonary hypertension (in MS patients) and reduced after correction of causative pathology; the pPTT is a valid measure to assess the improvement in PAH after BMV.
Uptake of Drug Susceptibility Testing and factors associated among TB Patients in Bungoma County, 2018-2022
Authors: Barasa Callistus Muliro , Thiga Joan , Kiptai Titus , Kiplimo Richard , Kimani Everlyne , Rono Aiban , Godana Adano , Nyaboke Drusilla , Muyemba Gabriel , Ong’ango Jane , Omesa Eunice , Mamuti Stella , Musa Asman , Sifuna Andrew , Kiarie Joyce
Published: December 2024

BACKGROUND
Drug Susceptibility Tests play an important role in developing strategies to identify and treat patients at high risk of Drug-Resistant Tuberculosis. Kenya is among countries with a high burden for Tuberculosis, and Multidrug-resistant/Rifampicin Resistant Tuberculosis. Early diagnosis and detection of drug-resistant Mycobacterium tuberculosis is a priority to identify patients not responding to treatment and avoid transmission of resistant strain. This study aimed to determine the uptake of the Drug Susceptibility Test and associated factors among tuberculosis patients in Bungoma County from 2018 to 2022
METHODOLOGY
Descriptive analysis was done, and patients’ characteristics were summarized in tables. Logistic regression was used to calculate the odds ratio at a 95% confidence interval (CI) and to check the association between drug susceptibility uptake and varied patient characteristics. P value ≤ 0.05 was considered statistically significant.
RESULTS
A total of 3204(42%), accessed a DST. Patients 25-44 years of age were 3262(37%). Females were more likely to have a DST with OR 1.03 (p<0.0123; 95% (1.04, 1.35). A patient being HIV negative was more likely to access a DST with OR 1.1 (p<0.0001; 95% (1.63, 2.15).
CONCLUSION
Access to a DST test among TB patients was sub-optimal. Most patients were found in the age group 25-44 years. Being a female, you were more likely to access a DST, and HIV-positive patients were unlikely to receive a DST test.
Evaluating the impact of a care model on skilled delivery service utilization among women in Kandara, Murang'a County, Kenya
Authors: Gachathi Daniel Muya , Makworo Drusilla , Mwenda Catherine
Published: December 2024

BACKGROUND
Addressing maternal and neonatal mortality rates in Kenya requires improving skilled delivery services, as unskilled deliveries contribute significantly to negative maternal and child health outcomes. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a model of care designed to enhance the utilization of skilled delivery services among women of reproductive age in the Kandara sub-county, Murang’a County, Kenya.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
Using a quasi-experimental study design, 154 pregnant women in their second trimester were equally assigned to test and comparison groups. The test group received tailored strategies promoting skilled birth attendance, while the comparison group received standard antenatal care. Data were collected continuously from the 28th week of gestation until delivery. Interventions for the test group included education on skilled delivery benefits and improved access to skilled attendants. All participants completed follow-up, achieving a 100% response rate.
RESULTS
Skilled birth attendance significantly increased in the intervention group compared to the comparison group. The intervention group had 98.7% skilled deliveries, while the comparison group had 85.7%. The overall proportion of skilled deliveries across both groups was 88%. Statistical analysis (Z = 3.08, p = 0.002) supports these findings, resulting in the rejection of the null hypothesis.
CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS
The tested model of care proved effective, suggesting its potential for implementation in low-skilled delivery areas. Collaborative efforts involving the National and county governments through the health departments, NGOs, and community health workers are recommended to scale up implementation in maternal and neonatal care. Advocacy with policymakers is crucial for integrating the model into maternal healthcare systems and shaping supportive policies. Additionally, government and stakeholder research collaborations are recommended to evaluate the model's long-term impact and sustainability.
Diarrhoea management practices among adolescent mothers as predictors of diarrhoeal diseases: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Maluni Justinah Kavata , Otieno David , Wamatuba Alex , Oyoya Michael Kala , Onguru Daniel
Published: December 2024

BACKGROUND
In sub-Saharan Africa, diarrhoeal diseases accounts for over 88% of deaths in children below five years old. In Kenya, the prevalence of under-5 diarrhoeal diseases was at 15% and 14% as per the as per Kenya Demographic Health Information Survey(KDHIS) of 2014 and 2022 respectively. This study aimed at examining the poor practices by adolescent mothers that function as predictors of diarrhoeal diseases among children under five years of adolescent mothers.
METHODOLOGY
The study was a mixed method, cross-sectional study involving 284 adolescent mothers aged 15-19 years in Kobura ward, Nyando sub-county, Kisumu County. The study employed both qualitative and quantitative data collection methods. Data was collected using a researcher-administered survey and 3 focus group discussions. Multivariable logistic regression was used to estimate the association between proper management of diarrhoea and sociodemographic and environmental factors using STATA version 17, while qualitative data was transcribed and analysed using NVivo Version 12 using inductive thematic analysis.
RESULTS
The study found that, the diarrhoea prevalence within the study area was higher (22.5%) than the national one (14%) and that 34% of the adolescent mothers had poor diarrhoea management practices which were predictors of diarrhoea among their children. Further, having a handwashing facility and the child’s vaccination status were predictors of diarrhoea.
CONCLUSION
Poor diarrhoea management practices are prevalent among adolescent mothers. Adolescent mothers need education on proper feeding, vaccination, and household sanitation to improve diarrhoea management and reduce prevalence, thereby improving the health of under-five children.
Phytosterol-enriched fraction of Morinda lucida extract inhibits testosterone-induced benign prostatic hyperplasia in rats.
Authors: Salemcity James Aanuoluwa , Adewole Kayode Ezekiel , Falade Osmund Ayodeji , Omolaso Blessing Oluwagbami
Published: December 2024

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a prevalent disorder among ageing men and could lead to prostatic carcinoma if not managed early and properly. Although orthodox drugs have been used for managing BPH, they have various side effects which necessitated the search for alternatives, especially from plant sources. Plants such as Morinda lucida have been forklorically used to manage the condition. This study was designed to investigate the effect of the phytosterol-rich extract of Morinda lucida leaf on testosterone-induced BPH in rats. Thirty rats were administered treatment for twenty-eight days as follows: Normal control (NC), BPH control, 200 mg/kg Morinda lucida Phytosterol-enriched Extract (MLPE), 400 mg/kg MLPE extract, and 1 mg/kg Finasteride group . After twenty-eight days, BPH control, 200mg/kg, 400mg/kg extract, and finasteride groups received 5mg/kg testosterone subcutaneously for another twenty-eight days along their various treatments. The rats were fasted overnight, sacrificed, and the testes were excised. Sperm parameters were carried out under light microscopy. Antioxidant assays were done using spectrophotometry. Inflammatory biomarkers were assayed via the Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay method. The results showed a significant reduction in the sperm motility, count and viability status of BPH control relative to NC. However, BPH rats treated with MLPE significantly increased the parameters. Malondialdehyde concentration was high, while GSH level, GPx, and catalase activities were low in BPH rats relative to NC. Conversely, antioxidant status was normalized as a result of MLPE administration. Elevation in TNF-α and interleukin-1β was observed in BPH control compared to NC. Nevertheless, there were significant decreases in the inflammatory biomarkers in groups administered MLPE relative to BPH rats.The above results suggest that MLPE exerts its effects via free radical scavenging, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities . It could therefore be concluded that MLPE could serve as a promising therapeutic agent for the prevention and management of BPH.