Design and Manufacturing of a Hexapattern Frequency Selective Surface Absorber for Aerospace Stealth Application.

Integrated frequency selective surface (IFSS) absorbers with larger bandwidth, effective reflection loss, polarization-insensitive characteristics, angular stability with compact/thin design, and ease of fabrication have captivated significant importance in stealth technology. Herein, we report on an IFSS absorber that has been designed, simulated, and implemented for manufacturing to achieve effective stealth properties. Initially, frequency selective surface (FSS) layers have been designed that comprise a closed centroid honeycomb structure surrounded with four annular hexagonal rings, splitted, alternatively, and enveloped with four L-shaped elements. The simulated pattern has been optimized on glass fabric for reflection loss (RC, dB) at a thickness of ∼0.1 mm by choosing sheet resistance of pattern 110 Ω/□. A FSS layer combined with interlayer lossy dielectric laminates (1.8 mm) and a carbon-fabric-reinforced-plastic ground has been simulated as an IFSS absorber. The performance of RC, in normal and angular configuration (0-60°), under transvers an electric/magnetic mode of polarization, including analysis of the displacement current, volume power loss distribution, and complex admittance has been carried on IFSS. Subsequently, the proposed absorber has been fabricated using customized carbon-based resistive ink imprinted on glass fabric by mask lithography compounded with laminates (a carbon black powder/epoxy composite) and ground. Their manufacturing details, including free space and anechoic chamber RC measurements, have been presented. The simulated and experimental RC performances of the absorber are found to be in good agreement, possessing minimal 10 dB reflection loss (90% absorption) with a sample thickness of 1.9 mm (0.05λL, where λL corresponds to a lower operating frequency), covering 76% fractional bandwidth in X and Ku bands. The proposed design architecture of the IFSS is ideally suitable for aerospace stealth platforms.

Assessment of the Diagnostic Reliability of Modified Alvarado Scores and Abdominal Ultrasonography in Acute Appendicitis.

Introduction Acute appendicitis is a common surgical emergency. Clinical assessment plays a major role; however, subtle clinical features in early stages and atypical presentation makes diagnosis challenging. Ultrasonography (USG) of the abdomen is a usual investigation that aids in diagnosis, however, it is operator dependent. A contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CECT) of the abdomen is more accurate; however, it exposes the patient to hazardous radiation. The study aimed to combine clinical assessment and USG abdomen in the reliable diagnosis of acute appendicitis. Objectives The objective of this study was to assess the diagnostic reliability of the Modified Alvarado Score and ultrasonography of the abdomen in acute appendicitis. Material and methods All patients with right iliac fossa pain, clinically suspected of having acute appendicitis, admitted to the department of general surgery, Kalinga Institute of Medical Sciences (KIMS), Bhubaneswar, between January 2019 and July 2020, who gave consent were included. Clinically, Modified Alvarado Score (MAS) was calculated, after which patients were subjected to USG abdomen, where findings were noted and a sonologic score was calculated. The study group was the patients who needed appendicectomy (n=138). Operative findings were noted. Histopathological diagnosis of acute appendicitis was deemed as confirmatory in these cases and was correlated with MAS and USG scores to determine diagnostic accuracy. Results A combined clinicoradiological (MAS + USG) score of seven showed a sensitivity of 81.8% and a specificity of 100%. The specificity of score seven or above was 100%; however, the sensitivity at 81.8%. The diagnostic accuracy of the clinicoradiological was 87.5%. The negative appendicectomy rate was 4.34%, with a diagnosis of acute appendicitis being confirmed for 95.7% of patients upon histopathological examination. Conclusion The MAS and USG of the abdomen, which is an affordable and non-invasive tool, showed increased diagnostic reliability, and hence it can help reduce the use of CECT abdomen, as CECT abdomen is considered as a gold standard for confirmation or exclusion of diagnosis of acute appendicitis. Use of the combined scoring system of MAS and USG abdomen can be used as a cost-effective alternative.

Post-Operative Outcomes of Laparoscopic Appendectomy in Acute Complicated Appendicitis: A Single Center Study.

BACKGROUND: Acute appendicitis (AA) is a surgical emergency because of inflammation in the appendix leading to swelling, whereas acute complicated appendicitis is characterized by a gangrenous or perforated appendix with or without periappendicular abscess, peritonitis, and an appendicular mass. The laparoscopic approach in complicated acute appendicitis is a viable alternative method but is not practiced in all cases because of technical difficulties and unpredictable complications. Thus, the present study aimed to evaluate the primary and secondary outcome predictors of laparoscopic appendectomy in complicated appendicitis. METHODS: A single-center prospective observational study was carried out after the approval of the Institutional Ethics Committee (IEC). A total of 87 complicated acute appendicitis patients were included in the study. Clinico-demographic features such as age, gender, duration of surgery, post-operative pain, and hospital stay were monitored in different age groups of <20, 20-39, and >40 years, and the primary and secondary outcomes of laparoscopic surgery in acute complicated appendicitis were measured. RESULT: Acute complicated appendicitis cases were observed mostly in people older than 42 years in the total study population. Laparoscopic appendectomy was conducted in all 87 acute complicated appendicitis patients, and the major surgical outcome predictors were monitored, such as mean operating time (87.9 minutes), post-operative pain (3.9 scores), and post-operative stay (6.7 days). Post-operative complications such as drain site infection (1.14%), enterocutaneous fistula (2%), and intra-abdominal abscess (7%) were observed. CONCLUSION: Based on our observations, a laparoscopic appendectomy can be considered a viable alternative with an acceptable complication rate. Operative time varies from 84 to 94 minutes in different age groups and with the extent of the disease.

A Clinical Significance of Fungal Infections in Diabetic Foot Ulcers.

BACKGROUND: Diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) are the most common and serious complications in uncontrolled diabetes. Infections are predominantly polymicrobial, with aerobic Gram-positive, anerobic, and fungal infections. Early detection of fungal infection and initiation of appropriate treatment in DFUs may lead to better healing and avoid amputations. The primary objective was to find out the prevalence of DFUs getting infected with fungus and the secondary objective was to identify the appropriate methodology for the detection of the fungus in DFUs. MATERIALS AND METHODS:  This was a cross-sectional observational study carried out in a tertiary care hospital with a sample size of 60 DFUs. Microbiological analysis was done by swab culture and deep tissue culture. Observational data were collected and the significance level was statistically analyzed. RESULTS:  In the present study, the prevalence of fungal infections in DFUs was 31.7%. Only fungal tissue was positive in 15%, the fungal swab was positive in 8.33%, and both tissue and swab were positive in 8.33%. All these patients were treated with antifungal treatment as per the culture report in addition to appropriate antimicrobial therapy. CONCLUSION:  A fungal culture should be done in all patients with non-healing DFUs. Both fungal swab and tissue culture testing should be advocated in patients with DFUs for better mycological evaluation. The addition of antifungal medications may provide better outcomes in selected cases.

Case of Botryoid Rhabdomyosarcoma Mimicking Biliary Hydatid Disease.

Hepatobiliary rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) is a soft tissue malignant musculoskeletal tumor of the biliary tract. It is rare tumor, mostly seen in children and mimics common benign biliary condition. Here, we present a case of 1 year 9 months child of biliary RMS who presented with obstructive jaundice and diagnosed after biopsy. This case highlights the unusual childhood malignancy of bile duct RMS in obstructive jaundice with atypical imaging findings.

Intraoperative Findings of Elective Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy in Diabetics Versus Nondiabetics: A Comparative Study.

Objectives Diabetes mellitus predisposes to the formation of gallstones. Surgery for gallstone disease (GSD) in diabetic patients also carries more risk compared with nondiabetic patients. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the intraoperative findings of elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy in diabetics and nondiabetics. Methods This study was carried out for two years in the department of general surgery as a prospective observational study. Two groups of patients with uncomplicated gallstone disease were recruited: one group included 75 diabetics and the other one included 75 nondiabetics. The two study groups were matched by age and gender. Detailed history and intraoperative findings and their outcomes were recorded. Patients with emergencylaparoscopiccholecystectomy for acute cholecystitis and its complications and cholecystectomy associated with common bile duct (CBD) stones were excluded from the study. Results The results of elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy in the groups were compared. No demographic differences were found between the groups. Adverse intraoperative findings such as thick-walled gallbladder (GB), pericholecystic collections, and adhesions to the surrounding structures, surgical difficulties, modification to subtotal cholecystectomy, and open conversion were more frequent in diabetic patients than in nondiabetic patients. Conclusion Laparoscopic cholecystectomy in diabetic patients had more adverse intraoperative findings in comparison to nondiabetic patients. However, in elective laparoscopic cholecystectomy, good preoperative preparation and meticulous surgical technique are mandatory to achieve similar outcomes between the groups.

Childhood Intussusception after Introduction of Indigenous Rotavirus Vaccine: Hospital-Based Surveillance Study from Odisha, India.

OBJECTIVE: To study the epidemiology of intussusception in children < 2 y of age, postintroduction of Rotavac® (an indigenous oral rotavirus vaccine). METHODS: A multicenter hospital-based surveillance was conducted in Odisha from February 2016 to June 2019. The cases were diagnosed according to Brighton level-1 criteria. Data were collected regarding the time of onset, signs and symptoms, radiological diagnosis, management, complications, and outcome (discharged/died). RESULTS: One hundred and twenty children < 2 y of age were enrolled. The median age was 7 mo (M:F ratio = 2:1). The most common clinical feature was abdominal distention and blood in stool. The most common method for treatment was hydrostatic/pneumatic reduction. Median time (days) between symptom onset and admission was 2. Median (IQR) duration (days) of hospitalization was 5. Most common location of intussusceptions was ileo-colic. CONCLUSIONS: Hydrostatic/pneumatic reduction was possible in the majority presenting ≤ 48 h of symptom onset, and those presenting > 48 h mostly required surgical reduction. Intestinal resection was required in some cases presenting on day 5 of symptom onset. Majority of cases were managed by surgical reduction in Government facility.

Impact of Advocacy, Communication, Social Mobilization and Active Case Finding on TB Notification in Jharkhand, India.

Community-level benefits of screening for active tuberculosis (TB) disease remain uncertain. Project Axshya (meaning free of TB) conducted advocacy, communication, social mobilization, and active case finding among vulnerable/marginalized populations of India. Among 15 districts of Jharkhand state, the project was initiated in 36 subdistrict level administrative units - tuberculosis units (TUs) in a staggered manner between April 2013 and September 2014, and continued till the end of 2015. Seven TUs did not implement the project. We assessed the relative change in the quarterly TB case finding indicators (n = 4) after inclusion of a TU within the project. By fitting four multilevel models (mixed-effects maximum likelihood regression using random intercept), we adjusted for secular (over previous five quarters) and seasonal trends, baseline differences within Axshya and non-Axshya TUs, and population size and clustering within districts and within TUs. After inclusion of a TU within the project, we found a significant increase [95% confidence interval (CI)] in TU-level presumptive TB sputum examination rate, new sputum-positive TB Case Notification Rate (CNR), sputum-positive TB CNR, and all forms TB CNR by 12 (5.5, 18.5), 1.1 (0.5, 1.7), 1.3 (0.6, 2.0), and 1.2 (0.1, 2.2) per 100,000 population per quarter, respectively. Overall, the project resulted in an increase (95% CI) in sputum examination and detection of new sputum-positive TB, sputum-positive TB and all forms of TB patients by 22,410 (10,203, 34,077), 2066 (923, 3210), 2380 (1162, 3616), and 2122 (203, 4059), respectively. This provides evidence for implementing project Axshya over and above the existing passive case finding.

Active versus passive case finding for tuberculosis in marginalised and vulnerable populations in India: comparison of treatment outcomes.

Background: Community-based active case finding (ACF) for tuberculosis (TB) implemented among marginalised and vulnerable populations in 285 districts of India resulted in reduction of diagnosis delay and prevalence of catastrophic costs due to TB diagnosis. We were interested to know whether this translated into improved treatment outcomes. Globally, there is limited published literature from marginalised and vulnerable populations on the independent effect of community-based ACF on treatment outcomes when compared to passive case finding (PCF). Objectives: To determine the relative differences in unfavourable treatment outcomes (death, loss-to-follow-up, failure, not evaluated) of ACF and PCF-diagnosed people. Methods: Cohort study involving record reviews and interviews in 18 randomly selected districts. We enrolled all ACF-diagnosed people with new smear-positive pulmonary TB, registered under the national TB programme between March 2016 and February 2017, and an equal number of randomly selected PCF-diagnosed people in the same settings. We used log binomial models to adjust for confounders. Results: Of 572 enrolled, 275 belonged to the ACF and 297 to the PCF group. The proportion of unfavourable outcomes were 10.2% (95% CI: 7.1%, 14.3%) in the ACF and 12.5% (95% CI: 9.2%, 16.7%) in the PCF group (p = 0.468). The association between ACF and unfavourable outcomes remained non-significant after adjusting for confounders available from records [aRR: 0.83 (95% CI: 0.56, 1.21)]. Due to patient non-availability at their residence, interviews were conducted for 465 (81.3%). In the 465 cohort too, there was no association after adjusting for confounders from records and interviews [aRR: 1.05 (95% CI: 0.62, 1.77)]. Conclusion: We did not find significant differences in the treatment outcomes. Due to the wide CIs, studies with larger sample sizes are urgently required. Studies are required to understand how to translate the benefits of ACF to improved treatment outcomes.

Are we missing 'previously treated' smear-positive pulmonary tuberculosis under programme settings in India? A cross-sectional study.

Background: In 2007, a field observation from India reported 11% misclassification among 'new' patients registered under the revised national tuberculosis (TB) control programme. Ten years down the line, it is important to know what proportion of newly registered patients has a past history of TB treatment for at least one month (henceforth called 'misclassification'). Methods: A study was conducted among new smear-positive pulmonary TB patients registered between March 2016 and February 2017 in 18 randomly selected districts to determine the effectiveness of an active case-finding strategy in marginalised and vulnerable populations. We included all patients detected through active case-finding. An equal number of randomly selected patients registered through passive case-finding from marginalised and vulnerable populations in the same districts were included. Before enrolment, we enquired about any history of previous TB treatment through interviews. Results: Of 629 patients, we interviewed 521, of whom, 11% (n=56) had past history of TB treatment (public or private) for at least a month: 13% (34/268) among the active case-finding group and 9% (22/253) among the passive case-finding group (p=0.18). No factors were found to be significantly associated with misclassification. Conclusion: Around one in every ten patients registered as 'new' had previous history of TB treatment. Corrective measures need to be implemented, followed by monitoring of any change in the proportion of 'previously treated' patients among all registered patients treated under the programme at national level.

Patient characteristics, health seeking and delays among new sputum smear positive TB patients identified through active case finding when compared to passive case finding in India.

BACKGROUND: Axshya SAMVAD is an active tuberculosis (TB) case finding (ACF) strategy under project Axshya (Axshya meaning 'free of TB' and SAMVAD meaning 'conversation') among marginalized and vulnerable populations in 285 districts of India. OBJECTIVES: To compare patient characteristics, health seeking, delays in diagnosis and treatment initiation among new sputum smear positive TB patients detected through ACF and passive case finding (PCF) under the national TB programme in marginalized and vulnerable populations between March 2016 and February 2017. METHODS: This observational analytic study was conducted in 18 randomly sampled Axshya districts. We enrolled all TB patients detected through ACF and an equal number of randomly selected patients detected through PCF in the same settings. Data on patient characteristics, health seeking and delays were collected through record review and patient interviews (at their residence). Delays included patient level delay (from eligibility for sputum examination to first contact with any health care provider (HCP)), health system level diagnosis delay (from contact with first HCP to TB diagnosis) and treatment initiation delays (from diagnosis to treatment initiation). Total delay was the sum of patient level, health system level diagnosis delay and treatment initiation delays. RESULTS: We included 234 ACF-diagnosed and 231 PCF-diagnosed patients. When compared to PCF, ACF patients were relatively older (≥65 years, 14% versus 8%, p = 0.041), had no formal education (57% versus 36%, p<0.001), had lower monthly income per capita (median 13.1 versus 15.7 USD, p = 0.014), were more likely from rural areas (92% versus 81%, p<0.002) and residing far away from the sputum microscopy centres (more than 15 km, 24% versus 18%, p = 0.126). Fewer patients had history of significant loss of weight (68% versus 78%, p = 0.011) and sputum grade of 3+ (15% versus 21%, p = 0.060). Compared to PCF, HCP visits among ACF patients was significantly lower (median one versus two HCPs, p<0.001). ACF patients had significantly lower health system level diagnosis delay (median five versus 19 days, p = 0.008) and the association remained significant after adjusting for potential confounders. Patient level and total delays were not significantly different. CONCLUSION: Axshya SAMVAD linked the most impoverished communities to TB care and resulted in reduction of health system level diagnosis delay.

Active case finding among marginalised and vulnerable populations reduces catastrophic costs due to tuberculosis diagnosis.

BACKGROUND: There is limited evidence on whether active case finding (ACF) among marginalised and vulnerable populations mitigates the financial burden during tuberculosis (TB) diagnosis. OBJECTIVES: To determine the effect of ACF among marginalised and vulnerable populations on prevalence and inequity of catastrophic costs due to TB diagnosis among TB-affected households when compared with passive case finding (PCF). METHODS: In 18 randomly sampled ACF districts in India, during March 2016 to February 2017, we enrolled all new sputum-smear-positive TB patients detected through ACF and an equal number of randomly selected patients detected through PCF. Direct (medical and non-medical) and indirect costs due to TB diagnosis were collected through patient interviews at their residence. We defined costs due to TB diagnosis as 'catastrophic' if the total costs (direct and indirect) due to TB diagnosis exceeded 20% of annual pre-TB household income. We used concentration curves and indices to assess the extent of inequity. RESULTS: When compared with patients detected through PCF (n = 231), ACF patients (n = 234) incurred lower median total costs (US$ 4.6 and 20.4, p < 0.001). The prevalence of catastrophic costs in ACF and PCF was 10.3 and 11.5% respectively. Adjusted analysis showed that patients detected through ACF had a 32% lower prevalence of catastrophic costs relative to PCF [adjusted prevalence ratio (95% CI): 0.68 (0.69, 0.97)]. The concentration indices (95% CI) for total costs in both ACF [-0.15 (-0.32, 0.11)] and PCF [-0.06 (-0.20, 0.08)] were not significantly different from the line of equality and each other. The concentration indices (95% CI) for catastrophic costs in both ACF [-0.60 (-0.81, -0.39)] and PCF [-0.58 (-0.78, -0.38)] were not significantly different from each other: however, both the curves had a significant distribution among the poorest quintiles. CONCLUSION: ACF among marginalised and vulnerable populations reduced total costs and prevalence of catastrophic costs due to TB diagnosis, but could not address inequity.

Status of Tuberculosis services in Indian Prisons.

INTRODUCTION: Prisons are known to be a high risk environment for tuberculosis (TB) due to overcrowding, low levels of nutrition, poor infection control and lack of accessible healthcare services. India has nearly 1400 prisons housing 0.37 million inmates. However, information on, availability of diagnostic and treatment services for TB in the prison settings is limited. This study examined the availability of TB services in prisons of India. Simultaneously, prison inmates were screened for tuberculosis. METHOD: The study was conducted in 157 prisons across 300 districts between July-December 2013. Information on services available and practices followed for screening, diagnosis and treatment of TB was collected. Additionally, the inmates and prison staff were sensitised on TB using interpersonal communication materials. The inmates were screened for cough ≥2 weeks as a symptom of TB. Those identified as presumptive TB patients (PTBP) were linked with free diagnostic and treatment services. RESULTS: Diagnostic and treatment services for TB were available in 18% and 54% of the prisons respectively. Only half of the prisons screened inmates for TB on entry, while nearly 60% practised periodic screening of inmates. District level prisons (OR, 6.0; 95% CI, 1.6-22.1), prisons with more than 500 inmates (OR, 52; 95% CI, 1.4-19.2), and prisons practising periodic screening of inmates (OR, 2.7; 95% CI, 1.0-7.2) were more likely to diagnose TB cases. 19% of the inmates screened had symptoms of TB (cough ≥2 weeks) and 8% of the PTBP were diagnosed with TB on smear microscopy. CONCLUSION: The TB screening, diagnostic and treatment services are sub-optimal in prisons in India and need to be strengthened urgently.

Waugh's Syndrome: Blessing in Disguise.

Waugh's syndrome is the association between intestinal malrotion and intussusceptions. We report a case of Waugh's syndrome in a one year old child who presented to us with acute bowel obstruction and bleeding per rectum. Due to malrotation, there was easy prolapsing of ileocolic region into the nonfixed ascending colon and the intussusceptum advanced into the descending colon and rectum without compromising vascularity of the bowel. In most of the cases the intussusceptum advancing into the rectum is associated with bowel gangrene even when ceacum is mobile. But in our case, mobile caecum with malrotation proved to be blessing in disguise in preventing such a complication. A Meckel's diverticulum was also an incidental finding in this case. Waugh's syndrome is missed in cases of close reduction of intussusception and may be a reason for recurrence. Though a rare entity, the probability of Waugh's syndrome should be kept in mind during surgery, during hydrostatic reduction of intussusceptions, and in case of recurrent ileocolic intussusceptions.

From where are tuberculosis patients accessing treatment in India? Results from a cross-sectional community based survey of 30 districts.

BACKGROUND: Tuberculosis (TB) notification in India by the Revised National TB Control Programme (RNTCP) provides information on TB patients registered for treatment from the programme. There is limited information about the proportion of patients treated for TB outside RNTCP and where these patients access their treatment. OBJECTIVES: To estimate the proportion of patients accessing TB treatment outside the RNTCP and to identify their basic demographic characteristics. METHODS: A cross sectional community-based survey in 30 districts. Patients were identified through a door-to-door survey and interviewed using a semi-structured questionnaire. RESULTS: Of the estimated 75,000 households enumerated, 73,249 households (97.6%) were visited. Of the 371,174 household members, 761 TB patients were identified (∼205 cases per 100,000 populations). Data were collected from 609 (80%) TB patients of which 331 [54% (95% CI: 42-66%)] were determined to be taking treatment 'under DOTS/RNTCP'. The remaining 278 [46% (95% CI: 34-57%)] were on treatment from 'outside DOTS/RNTCP' sources and hence were unlikely to be part of the TB notification system. Patients who were accessing treatment from 'outside DOTS/RNTCP' were more likely to be patients from rural areas [adjusted Odds Ratio (aOR) 2.5, 95% CI (1.2-5.3)] and whose TB was diagnosed in a non-government health facility (aOR 14.0, 95% CI 7.9-24.9). CONCLUSIONS: This community-based survey found that nearly half of self-reported TB patients were missed by TB notification system in these districts. The study highlights the need for 1) Reviewing and revising the scope of the TB notification system, 2) Strengthening and monitoring health care delivery systems with periodic assessment of the reach and utilisation of the RNTCP services especially among rural communities, 3) Advocacy, communication and social mobilisation activities focused at rural communities with low household incomes and 4) Inclusive involvement of all health-care providers, especially providers of poor rural communities.