bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Neglected Plasmodium vivax malaria in northeastern States of India
Authors: Sharma Vinod P. , Dev Vas , Phookan Sobhan 
Published: December 2024

Background & objectives:
The northeastern States of India are co-endemic for Plasmodium falciparum and P. vivax malaria. The transmission intensity is low-to-moderate resulting in intermediate to stable malaria. Malaria control prioritized P. falciparum being the predominant and life threatening infection (>70%). P. vivax malaria remained somewhat neglected. The present study provides a status report of P. vivax malaria in the northeastern States of India.

Methods:
Data on spatial distribution of P. vivax from seven northeastern States (Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland and Tripura) were analysed retrospectively from 2008–2013. In addition, cross-sectional malarial surveys were conducted during 1991-2012 in malaria endemic pockets across the States of Assam, Meghalaya, Mizoram and Tripura to ascertain the prevalence of P. vivax in different age groups.

Results:
Vivax malaria was encountered in all northeastern States but there existed a clear division of two malaria ecotypes supporting ≤30 and >30 per cent of total malaria cases. High proportions of P. vivax cases (60–80%) were seen in Arunachal Pradesh and Nagaland in the north with alpine environment, 42-67 per cent in Manipur, whereas in Assam it varied from 23-31 per cent with subtropical and tropical climate. Meghalaya, Tripura and Mizoram had the lowest proportion of P. vivax cases. Malaria cases were recorded in all age groups but a higher proportion of P. vivax consistently occurred among <5 yr age group compared to P. falciparum (P<0.05). P. vivax cases were recorded throughout the year with peak coinciding with rainy season although transmission intensity and duration varied.

Interpretation & conclusions:
In northeast India, P. vivax is a neglected infection. Estimating the relapsing pattern and transmission dynamics of P. vivax in various ecological settings is an important pre-requisite for planning malaria elimination in the northeastern States.
Performance of Revised National Tuberculosis Control Programme (RNTCP) in tribal areas in India
Authors: Muniyandi M. , Rao V.G. , Bhat J. , Yadav R. 
Published: December 2024

Background & objectives:
The Revised National Tuberculosis Control Programme (RNTCP) provides free diagnostic and treatment services to all tuberculosis (TB) patients registered under it. Equitable access, implying a preference for the most hard-to-reach groups particularly for tribal areas, is a major concern for RNTCP. This study was conducted to assess the performance of RNTCP in terms of case detection and cure rates in areas dominated by tribal groups in India.

Methods:
We used the RNTCP data collected by the Central TB Divison, Government of India. RNTCP has a systematic monitoring mechanism which tracks the outcome of every patient put on treatment. There is a standardized recording and reporting structure in place; indicators are monitored regularly at every level of the health system; and regular supervision ensures quality of the Programme. The main indicators include the number of cases diagnosed and the percentage of patients who are successfully treated. These indicators were used to assess the RNTCP performance in tribal areas.

Results:
We observed a poor performance in terms of case detection rate (CDR) in tribal and backward districts as compared with other districts in India. Among tribal districts 53 per cent in 2010, 45 per cent in 2011 and 56 per cent in 2012 had CDR of new smear positive <70%. It was also observed that 26 per cent of tribal dominated districts had CDR of <51 per cent in 2012. More than 50 per cent of tribal districts were not able to achieve more than 85 per cent of cure rate.

Interpretation & conclusions:
The findings of this study suggested that the overall RNTCP performance in tribal areas was not optimal, and the target of >85 per cent of core rate was achieved by less than half of the tribal districts.
Situation of drug resistant tuberculosis in Saharia tribe of central India
Authors: Bhat J. , Rao V.G. , Yadav R. , Muniyandi M. , Sharma R. , Karfarma C. , Luke C. 
Published: December 2024

Background & objectives:
The information on multidrug resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) situation amongst Saharia, one of the Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) in Madhya Pradesh, India, is not available. Hence, this study was undertaken to find the situation of MDR-TB amongst Saharia PVTG in two districts of Madhya Pradesh.

Methods:
Community based cross-sectional TB prevalence surveys were conducted among Saharia PVTG in Gwalior and Shivpuri districts of Madhya Pradesh. Chest symptomatics were identified from the individual registered for the study. Two sputum samples were collected from each of the eligible individuals, transported to the laboratory, and were examined by Ziehl-Neelsen (Z-N) smear microscopy and solid medium culture methods. Drug susceptibility testing of the isolates was done by indirect proportion method on solid medium.

Results:
MDR rate was 2.2 per cent of new cases and 8.2 per cent among the previously treated cases of TB in Gwalior while it was two per cent among the previously treated cases in Shivpuri district.

Interpretation & conclusions:
Though the prevalence of tuberculosis in these districts was alarmingly high, the MDR rates were more or less similar to national average. However, the findings of this study highlight the need for active intervention so that the MDR-TB is kept under control.
Levels, trends & predictors of infant & child mortality among Scheduled Tribes in rural India
Authors: Sahu Damodar , Nair Saritha , Singh Lucky , Gulati B.K. , Pandey Arvind 
Published: December 2024

Background & objectives:
The level of infant and child mortality is high among Scheduled Tribes particularly those living in rural areas. This study examines levels, trends and socio-demographic factors associated with infant and child mortality among Scheduled Tribes in rural areas.

Methods:
Data from the three rounds of the National Family Health Survey (NFHS) of India from 1992 to 2006 were analysed to assess the levels and trends of infant and child mortality. Univariate and multivariate Cox proportional hazard model were used to understand the socio-economic and demographic factors associated with mortality during 1992–2006.

Results:
Significant change was observed in infant and child mortality over the time period from 1992-2006 among Scheduled Tribes in rural areas. After controlling for other factors, birth interval, household wealth, and region were found to be significantly associated with infant and child mortality. Hazard of infant mortality was highest among births to mothers aged 30 yr or more (HR=1.3, 95% CI=1.1-1.7) as compared with births to the mother's aged 20-29 yr. Hazard of under-five mortality was 42 per cent (95% CI=1.3-1.6) higher among four or more birth order compared with the first birth order. The risk of infant dying was higher among male children (HR = 1.2, 95% CI=1.1-1.4) than among female children while male children were at 30 per cent (HR=0.7, 95% CI=0.6-0.7) less hazard of child mortality than female children. Literate women were at 40 per cent (HR=0.6, 95% CI=0.50-0.76) less hazard of child death than illiterate women.

Interpretation & conclusions:
Mortality differentials by socio-demographic and economic factors were observed over the time period (1992-2006) among Scheduled Tribes (STs) in rural India. Findings support the need to focus on age at first birth and spacing between two births.
C1q Levels: A Reliable Biomarker for Differentiating Active and Latent Tuberculosis Infection
Authors: Darougar Sepideh , Moniri Afshin , Baghaei Parvaneh , Mortaz Esmaeil , Sadr Makan , Moniri Arad , Marjani Majid , Tabarsi Payam 
Published: December 2024

Background:
Tuberculosis (TB) poses a significant public health challenge, particularly because it can exist in an asymptomatic latent phase. Latent TB infection indicates the presence of Mycobacterium tuberculosis without clinical symptoms. Effectively distinguishing between active and latent TB is essential, especially in regions with high TB prevalence, as it may help reduce transmission rates. This study aims to evaluate C1q as a potential biomarker for differentiating active TB from latent forms.

Methods:
This prospective cross-sectional study was conducted from January 2017 to February 2018, involving HIV-negative adults aged 18 and older attending TB clinics. Participants were categorized based on clinical symptoms, imaging results, and laboratory tests into active or latent TB. Blood samples were collected to assess serum C1q levels, which were then compared between the two groups.

Results:
Out of 81 patients referred for TB evaluation, 38 were diagnosed with active TB. The overall median C1q level was 6.46 μg/ml (interquartile range 4.66–10). The active TB group exhibited significantly elevated C1q levels (10.21 μg/ml) compared to the latent TB group (6.03 μg/ml, P < 0.001). The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve for C1q in distinguishing active from latent TB was 0.74 (95% confidence interval, 0.63–0.85), with sensitivity varying between 61% and 82% at different threshold values.

Conclusions:
C1q shows potential as a reliable and easily obtainable biomarker for differentiating active TB from latent infection, demonstrating high sensitivity. These results underscore the need for further research to explore the clinical application of C1q in TB diagnostics.
Exploring the Genetic Landscape of Mycobacterium tuberculosis: Unlocking the Differences in Between Latent and Active Tuberculosis
Authors: Velayati Ali Akbar , Mitaria Satoshi , Farnia Parissa , Farnia Poopak , Ghanavi Jaladein , Maleknia Mohsan , Murase Yoshiro , Hoffner Sven 
Published: December 2024

Background:
Tuberculosis (TB), caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB), can enter a dormant phase within host tissues, complicating treatment and highlighting the need to investigate the genetic changes associated with dormancy.

Methods:
This study examined clinical isolates of MTB, representing a range of susceptibility profiles and standard reference laboratory strains, i.e., H37Rv and Mycobacterium bovis bacillus Calmette–Guérin. Each strain was subcultured in a controlled laboratory environment to analyze two distinct phases: one maintained in vitro under a double-stress dormancy model using the Wayne model (characterized by the absence of oxygen and nutrients) for 12 months, and the other examined during its exponential growth phase. Whole-genome sequencing and protein structure analysis using bioinformatics tools were performed to characterize and compare mutations in isolates at each phase.

Results:
Three distinct frameshift mutations were identified in the fbiC, PPE35, and ald genes, and one upstream mutation in whiB6 genes in all studied isolates under dormancy, irrespective of their susceptibility patterns (P < 0.01). Among drug-resistant strains, at the exponential phase isolated from patients with prolonged treatment, 5%–7% had PPE35, ald mutations, whereas 95% had the whiB6 mutation, suggesting that adaptive stress responses may be triggered under in vivo conditions.

Conclusions:
The newly identified frameshift mutations (fbiC, PPE35, and ald genes), consistently found in both laboratory and clinical isolates, seem to play a critical role in the survival of MTB during dormancy. Based on these findings, designing a molecular test to differentiate between active and latent TB possibly enables timely prophylactic interventions.
Relevance of Preoperative Vessel Mapping and Early Postoperative Ultrasonography in Predicting Arteriovenous Fistula Failure in Chronic Kidney Disease Patients
Authors: Gupta Shikhar , Ahmed Mehtab , Sayema  , Haseen Azam , Quaiser Saif 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Introduction:
The increasing prevalence of chronic kidney disease (CKD), coupled with advancements in the diagnosis and treatment of renal diseases and improvements in life expectancy, has led to a greater number of patients requiring hemodialysis. The preferred method of vascular access for hemodialysis is AV fistula formation; however, it is associated with a high rate of failure. In our prospective study, we focused on 40 CKD patients planned for initiation of maintenance hemodialysis.

Methods:
We employed preoperative ultrasound mapping to assess cephalic vein diameter, compressibility, and colour flow, as well as radial and brachial artery diameter, peak systolic velocity, and intimal wall calcification. Postoperatively, ultrasound examinations were conducted on day 7 and at 6 weeks to evaluate fistula blood volume and detect any complications.

Results:
A significant association between fistula failure and cephalic vein diameter, brachial artery diameter, intimal vessel wall calcification, and comorbid conditions like diabetes mellitus was observed. Furthermore, blood flow at day 7 was notably lower in the failure group compared to those with a functioning fistula and any fistula with blood flow <154 ml/min on day 7 may be predictive of early fistula failure.

Conclusion:
Preoperative vessel mapping and early postoperative ultrasonography is indispensable for patients who require AV fistula formation for hemodialysis and provide valuable information for selecting suitable vessels for successful fistula creation and enable early intervention to salvage a failing fistula after the surgery. By utilizing this, necessary steps can be taken optimize the outcomes of AV fistula formation.
Effect of Preoperative Pulmonary Hypertension on the Course of Right Ventricular Function: A Three-dimensional Echocardiographic Study in Valvular Surgery Patients
Authors: Ito Shinya , Yoshitani Kenji , Fukushima Satsuki , Matsuda Hitoshi 
Published: December 2024

Context:
Postoperative right heart failure is a poor prognostic factor after cardiac surgery. However, the factors that influence perioperative right ventricular (RV) function remain unknown. This study investigated whether preoperative pulmonary hypertension (PH) affects changes in RV systolic function during the perioperative period.

Aims:
This study aimed to determine the effect of preoperative PH on changes in RV systolic function in patients undergoing aortic or mitral valve surgery.

Settings and Design:
This was a retrospective review of three-dimensional echocardiographic datasets of 157 patients undergoing aortic or mitral valve surgery.

Materials and Methods:
Patients were classified into the PH (n = 105) or non-PH (n = 51) group based on preoperative right heart catheterization findings. RV ejection fraction and RV longitudinal strain (RVLS) of the free wall and septum were calculated using semiautomated image analysis software at four time points: before surgery, end of surgery, 3 months after surgery, and 1 year after surgery.

Statistical Analysis Used:
A mixed-effects model was used to compare changes in RV function between groups.

Results:
Over 1 year, no significant differences in trends were observed between groups for any of the parameters. However, a significant deterioration in free wall RVLS was observed in the non-PH group when focusing on the change from baseline to 1 year (P value for interaction = 0.013).

Conclusions:
In patients undergoing valvular surgery, the presence of preoperative PH did not significantly influence changes in RV function throughout the perioperative period.
Pediatric Three-dimensional Transesophageal Echocardiography: A Game Changer in Congenital Heart Disease
Authors: Di Salvo Giovanni , Pozza Alice , Castaldi Biagio , Galzerano Domenico , Pergola Valeria 
Published: December 2024

Background:
Despite its potential, pediatric three-dimensional (3D) transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) faced technical limitations due to the size and rigidity of early probes designed for adults.

Aim:
In this paper, we present our experience in using the new pediatric 3D TEE probe in complex congenital heart disease (CHD).

Methods:
Recent advancements in the field of miniaturization have led to the development of a new pediatric 3D TEE probe, specifically designed for young children (weight ≥4.5 kg). This probe features a smaller, flexible design and high-spatial and temporal resolution, enabling detailed views of intracardiac structures and real-time imaging crucial for complex diagnosis, planning interventional and surgical procedures. We used this new probe in pediatric cases (weight between 4.5 and 6 kg) with complex congenital heart disease.

Results:
In double-outlet right ventricle or in Taussig Bing anomaly the new 3D TEE probe enabled detailed assessment of ventricular septal defect and its relations with tricuspid valve apparatus, and provided details of mitral valve leaflets not detectable by the transthoracic approach, even in small children.

Conclusions:
These cases highlight the probe‘s ability to provide detailed anatomical information, enhancing surgical planning and outcomes. The pediatric 3D TEE probe has the potential to be a game changer in defining intracardiac anatomy in complex CHD.
Investigation of the Effect of Calibration Curves Obtained from Different Computed Tomography Devices on the Dose Distribution of Tomotherapy Plans
Authors: Demir Hikmettin , Gül Osman Vefa , Kanyilmaz Gül 
Published: December 2024

Purpose:
This study investigated the effect of Hounsfield units (HU)-relative electron density (RED) calibration curves obtained with devices from three different Computed Tomography (CT) manufacturers on dose distribution in Accuray Precision planning of patients with lung cancer.

Methods:
All CT data required for treatment planning system (TPS) were obtained using the Tomotherapy “cheese” phantom. HU RED calibration curves were created with images obtained from Siemens Somatom, GE Optima, and Toshiba Aquilion devices. The obtained calibration curve was extrapolated. CT images of lung cancer patients were acquired on a single device and treatment plans were created. The existing plans were recalculated using three calibration curves and the effect of the HU RED calibration curve on dose distribution was analyzed.

Results:
The results showed that different CTs did not produce significant dose differences in organ doses and PTV for Accuray TPS.

Conclusions:
Based on clinical judgment, images from different CT devices can be used in treatment planning.
Development and Validation of Cloud-based Heart Rate Variability Monitor
Authors: Bhat Sushma N. , Jindal Ghanshyam D. , Nagare Gajanan D. 
Published: December 2024

Context:
This article introduces a new cloud-based point-of-care system to monitor heart rate variability (HRV).

Aims:
Medical investigations carried out at dispensaries or hospitals impose substantial physiological and psychological stress (white coat effect), disrupting cardiovascular homeostasis, which can be taken care by point-of-care cloud computing system to facilitate secure patient monitoring.

Settings and Design:
The device employs MAX30102 sensor to collect peripheral pulse signal using photoplethysmography technique. The non-invasive design ensures patient compliance while delivering critical insights into Autonomic Nervous System activity. Preliminary validations indicate the system’s potential to enhance clinical outcomes by supporting timely, data-driven therapeutic adjustments based on HRV metrics.

Subjects and Methods:
This article explores the system’s development, functionality, and reliability. System designed is validated with peripheral pulse analyzer (PPA), a research product of electronics division, Bhabha Atomic Research Centre.

Statistical Analysis Used:
The output of developed HRV monitor (HRVM) is compared using Pearson’s correlation and Mann–Whitney U-test with output of PPA. Peak positions and spectrum values are validated using Pearson’s correlation, mean error, standard deviation (SD) of error, and range of error. HRV parameters such as total power, mean, peak amplitude, and power in very low frequency, low frequency, and high frequency bands are validated using Mann–Whitney U-test.

Results:
Pearson’s correlation for spectrum values has been found to be more than 0.97 in all the subjects. Mean error, SD of error, and range of error are found to be in acceptable range.

Conclusions:
Statistical results validate the new HRVM system against PPA for use in cloud computing and point-of-care testing.
Backside Irradiation of Ultraviolet-A for Correcting Nonuniformity Error of Gafchromic XR-QA2 Films
Authors: Tanki Nobuyoshi , Goto Sachiko , Katsuda Toshizo , Gotanda Rumi , Gotanda Tatsuhiro , Kuwano Tadao 
Published: December 2024

Purpose:
Radiochromic film is used for quality assurance and quality control of X-ray equipment in the diagnostic radiology. In addition, three-dimensional dose distribution of computed tomography (CT) is measured. To correct the nonuniformity and uncertainty of radiochromic films for dose measurement of CT, the films are preirradiated ultraviolet (UV)-A rays. There is a difference in the UV protection strength of radiochromic films. A concern exists about the effects of the UV-A irradiation intensity. We thus irradiated with UV-A rays from the backsides of the films to assess if backside irradiation was possible.

Materials and Methods:
Gafchromic XR-QA2 and RTQA2 were used in this study. The UV-A rays were simultaneously irradiated on the front and backsides of each film for 12 h. The yellow layer of each film was scanned and imaged. The average pixel values ± standard deviations (SDs) were compared. In the statistical analysis, a paired t-test was performed. To compare, the active-layer densities engendered by the UV-A rays. Calibration curve was created with 48 h of preirradiation of UV-A.

Results:
The mean pixel values ± SD for Gafchromic XR-QA2 on the front and backsides were 130.776 ± 0.812 and 81.015 ± 1.128, respectively. On the other hand, the mean pixel values ± SD for Gafchromic RTQA2 on the front and backsides were 62.299 ± 1.077 and 133.761 ± 1.365, respectively. The statistical results of the paired t-test were significantly different (P < 0.01) between both films. Fitting equation of the calibration curve is shown below. y = -390.47 ± 200 + (443.45 ± 10x80).5068 ± 0.0434.

Conclusion:
Based on the relationship between the sensitivity of the active layer to UV-A rays and the strength of UV protection on the surface, we concluded that backside irradiation is recommended for Gafchromic XR-QA2, and frontside irradiation is recommended for Gafchromic RTQA2.
Diseño para el futuro, experiencia metodológica de encuentro entre estudiantes de diseño gráfico y otras disciplinas
Authors: Lozada Mondragón Mariana Soraya 
Published: December 2024

Este documento presenta la forma en que se inserta el diseño especulativo a la malla curricular de la carrera de Diseño Gráfico de la Pontificia Universidad Católica del Ecuador (PUCE), mostrando en primer lugar las reflexiones iniciales de las que se partieron, así como las relaciones establecidas entre el diseño especulativo, los estudios de prospectiva y diversas áreas de conocimiento, incluyendo varios espacios donde antes era impensable la participación del diseño gráfico y que ahora han abierto campos de diseño de alto impacto no solo enfocados en el ser humano, sino en todo lo concerniente al planeta.
La propuesta evidencia el trabajo de los dos últimos años y relata de forma sucinta algunos proyectos ejecutados con los estudiantes de séptimo nivel, y la participación de otras áreas de conocimiento.
Finalmente, reflexiona sobre los pendientes en el proceso y las proyecciones para continuar la propuesta, pues la colaboración entre diseño y otras disciplinas enriquece la formación de estudiantes y demuestra el potencial del diseño para contribuir a soluciones innovadoras, considerando además que esta iniciativa puede ser un precedente para construir una propuesta de trabajo transdisciplinar más sólida en la academia a nivel latinoamericano.