Daily Prelims Notes 14 June 2024

Daily Prelims Notes

14 June 2024

1. Rapid Diagnostic Test for UTIs May Help Stem Superbug Crisis

Sub: Science and tech

Sec: Health

Overview:

• Technology: PA-100 AST System by Sysmex Astrego.
• Recognition: Winner of the £8 million Longitude Prize on Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR).

Key Points:

• The PA-100 AST System:
  • Function: Rapid, point-of-care test for urinary tract infections (UTIs).
  • Mechanism: Utilizes a phenotypic test to identify bacteria and perform antibiotic susceptibility testing (AST).
  • Speed: Delivers results in under 45 minutes.
  • Device: Single-use cartridge, about the size of a smartphone, and a reader instrument the size of a shoebox.
  • Procedure: Urine sample is added to the cartridge, which is then inserted into the reader for phase-contrast imaging of bacterial growth.
• Current UTI Testing Methods:
  • Urine Dipstick Test: Quick but has only 50-60% accuracy and does not identify specific antibiotics.
  • Urine Culture Test: Accurate but takes 2-3 days, leading to empirical antibiotic prescriptions and contributing to antibiotic resistance.
• Impact of PA-100 AST System:
  • Accuracy: Identifies the correct antibiotic, reducing the need for empirical prescribing.
  • Speed: Provides results quickly, aiding in timely and precise treatment.
  • Accessibility: Can be used in clinics, emergency departments, and pharmacies without needing to send samples to a laboratory.
  • Potential: May allow previously “retired” antibiotics to be used effectively again.
• Global Significance:
  • Antibiotic Resistance Crisis: Antibiotic-resistant infections could cause 10 million deaths annually by 2050.
  • Economic Impact: Potential loss of up to $100 trillion by 2050 due to the AMR crisis.
  • Health Improvement: Rapid diagnostics like the PA-100 AST System can improve health outcomes and potentially save millions of lives.

Historical Context of the Longitude Prize:

• Original Longitude Prize (1714): Awarded for a solution to determine longitude at sea, won by John Harrison.
• Modern Longitude Prize (2014): Focused on tackling AMR, as voted by the public.

Conclusion: The PA-100 AST System, by providing a rapid, accurate, and affordable diagnostic test for UTIs, represents a significant advancement in the fight against antimicrobial resistance.

By enabling precise antibiotic prescribing at the point of care, this technology promises to revolutionize infection management and curb the spread of superbugs, potentially saving millions of lives worldwide.

Understanding Superbugs

Superbugs are strains of bacteria, viruses, parasites, and fungi that have developed resistance to multiple antibiotics and other antimicrobial drugs. This resistance makes infections caused by these pathogens particularly difficult to treat.

Causes of Antibiotic Resistance:

• Overuse of Antibiotics:
  • Prescribing antibiotics for viral infections, like the common cold, where they are ineffective.
  • Over-prescribing antibiotics for minor bacterial infections that might resolve on their own.
• Misuse of Antibiotics:
  • Not completing the full course of antibiotics, allowing some bacteria to survive and develop resistance.
  • Using leftover antibiotics without medical guidance.
• Agricultural Practices:
  • The widespread use of antibiotics in livestock to promote growth and prevent disease can lead to the development of resistant bacteria.
• Poor Infection Control:
  • Inadequate hygiene and sanitation in healthcare settings and communities can facilitate the spread of resistant bacteria.

Conclusion:

Superbugs represent a significant challenge to global health, requiring a coordinated and multifaceted approach to manage and mitigate their impact. Through responsible antibiotic use, stringent infection control measures, and continued research and innovation, it is possible to combat the threat of antibiotic-resistant infections and protect public health.

2. India-Made TB Diagnostics Tech Wins Acclaim at World Health Assembly

Sub: Science and tech

Sec: Health

Overview:

• Technology: The Truenat platform, a rapid molecular test for diagnosing pulmonary, extrapulmonary, and rifampicin-resistant tuberculosis (TB).
• Developer: Goa-based Molbio Diagnostics.
• Recognition: Acclaimed at the 77th World Health Assembly in Geneva.

Key Points:

About Truenat:

• Launch Year: 2017.
• Technology: Real-time quantitative micro-PCR system.
• Features: Portable, battery-operated machine.
• Deployment: Suitable for labs, health centers, and field use.
• Efficiency: Delivers results in less than an hour.
• Versatility: Can test for over 40 diseases.

Global Recognition:

• Event: 77th World Health Assembly.
• Organization: The Global Fund (in collaboration with WHO).
• Appreciation: India’s commitment to TB elimination and use of digital technologies like Truenat.
• Potential: Truenat machines and handheld X-ray devices as global models.
• Installations: Around 10,000 installations worldwide.
• Reports: Significant improvements in TB case detection in countries using Truenat.

National TB Elimination Programme:

• Implementation: Over 7,000 primary and community health centers in India.
• Private Sector: Used in roughly 1,500 private labs across the country.

Global TB Statistics:

• Annual Cases: Over 10 million new TB cases globally each year.
• India’s Burden: Accounts for 27% of the global TB burden.
• Mortality: TB kills an estimated 480,000 Indians annually, which translates to over 1,400 deaths per day.

Conclusion: The Truenat platform, developed by Molbio, is a groundbreaking tool in the fight against TB, offering rapid, reliable, and portable diagnostic capabilities. Its recognition at the World Health Assembly underscores its potential to significantly impact global health, particularly in TB-endemic regions.

Various Government Schemes –

1. Pradhan Mantri TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyan

Overview

Launched by the Indian government, the Pradhan Mantri TB Mukt Bharat Abhiyan is a comprehensive program aimed at eliminating TB in India by 2025. This ambitious goal is five years ahead of the global target set by the World Health Organization (WHO).

Objectives

• Universal Access to TB Care: Ensuring that every TB patient has access to the best possible diagnostic and treatment services.
• Community Engagement: Mobilizing community participation and awareness to support TB control and eradication efforts.
• Private Sector Engagement: Collaborating with private healthcare providers to ensure standardized TB care and reporting.
• Innovative Solutions: Implementing new technologies and approaches for TB diagnosis, treatment, and monitoring.

2. National Strategic Plan (NSP) for Tuberculosis Elimination (2017-2025)

Overview

The NSP for Tuberculosis Elimination outlines India’s strategy to eliminate TB by 2025, focusing on a multi-pronged approach to tackle the disease at all levels.

Key Components

• Early Diagnosis and Treatment: Enhancing early diagnosis through improved laboratory capacity and rapid molecular tests like Truenat.
• Patient Support Systems: Strengthening patient support systems to ensure adherence to treatment regimens.
• Health System Strengthening: Improving the overall capacity of the healthcare system to manage TB cases efficiently.
• Research and Innovation: Promoting research to find new diagnostic tools, drugs, and vaccines.

3. TB Harega Desh Jeetega Campaign

Overview

The “TB Harega Desh Jeetega” (TB Will Lose, the Nation Will Win) campaign is a public awareness and mobilization campaign aimed at creating a mass movement to eliminate TB in India.

Objectives

• Awareness and Advocacy: Raising awareness about TB symptoms, treatment options, and the importance of completing treatment.
• Community Participation: Encouraging community leaders, influencers, and the general public to participate in TB eradication efforts.
• Behavioral Change: Promoting behavioral changes to reduce stigma associated with TB and encourage people to seek timely medical help.

4. Nikshay Poshan Yojana

Overview

Nikshay Poshan Yojana is a direct benefit transfer (DBT) scheme introduced by the Indian government to provide nutritional support to TB patients.

The scheme ensures that patients receive financial assistance to meet their nutritional needs during treatment.

Features

• Nutritional Support: Monthly financial support of ₹500 (around $6.80) is provided to TB patients for the duration of their treatment to help them purchase nutritious food.
• Direct Benefit Transfer: The funds are transferred directly to the bank accounts of the patients to ensure timely and efficient delivery.
• Coverage: The scheme covers all TB patients registered under the National Tuberculosis Elimination Program (NTEP).

Objectives

• Improving Treatment Outcomes: Ensuring that patients have access to adequate nutrition, which is crucial for effective TB treatment and recovery.
• Reducing Treatment Default Rates: Encouraging patients to complete their treatment by alleviating the financial burden associated with TB.

3. DGFT Pushes for Continuation of Interest Equalisation Scheme for Exporters

Sub: Economy

Sec: External Sector

Overview:

• Current Status: The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) is advocating for the extension of the interest equalisation scheme for exporters, which is due to expire on June 30.
• Objective: The scheme allows exporters to access bank credit at subsidised interest rates to enhance their competitiveness.

Key Points:

• Interest Equalisation Scheme:
  • Subsidy Details: The scheme provides a 2% interest subvention for loans to exporters in 410 identified sectors and a 3% subvention for MSME exporters.
  • Implementation History: Introduced in April 2015 for five years, it has been extended multiple times.
• Benefits to Exporters:
  • Cost of Credit: Exporters use the scheme to reduce their credit costs, enhancing their competitiveness.
  • Export Bodies’ Support: Bodies like the Federation of Indian Export Organisations (FIEO) argue the scheme is crucial for maintaining export competitiveness.
• Current Discussions:
  • Consultations: DGFT has consulted with export bodies and banks, finding strong support for the scheme’s continuation.
  • Finance Ministry’s Role: While the DGFT supports extending the scheme, the Finance Ministry is cautious about increasing subvention rates, a major demand from exporters.
• Exporters’ Demands:
  • Extension Period: Exporters are requesting an extension of 3-5 years to ensure stability and predictability.
  • Increased Subvention Rates: They argue for a 2% increase in subvention rates due to higher interest rates in India compared to competitor countries.
• Government Response:
  • DGFT’s Position: The DGFT is pushing for the scheme’s continuation based on its benefits in reducing credit costs for exporters.
  • Finance Ministry’s Concerns: The Finance Ministry is evaluating the scheme’s extension duration but is hesitant to raise subvention rates.
• Economic Impact:
  • Export Competitiveness: The scheme is seen as a critical tool for making Indian exports competitive in the global market.
  • Interest Rates: The demand for higher subvention rates is linked to the increase in the repo rate from 4.4% to 6.5%.

Conclusion: The continuation of the interest equalisation scheme is vital for maintaining the competitiveness of Indian exports. While the DGFT is in favor of extending the scheme, the Finance Ministry’s stance on the subvention rates remains a point of contention. The decision on the extension period and possible rate adjustments is awaited as the scheme approaches its expiration date.

Interest Equalisation Scheme (IES)

The Interest Equalisation Scheme (IES) is a key financial initiative launched by the Indian government to support exporters by providing subsidized interest rates on export credit.

The Interest Equalisation Scheme was first implemented on April 1, 2015, to provide financial relief and promote competitiveness among Indian exporters.

The scheme offers interest subsidies on pre- and post-shipment export credit in Indian Rupees.

Implementation and Duration

• Initial Validity: The scheme was initially valid for five years, up to March 31, 2020.
• Extensions: It has been extended multiple times, including a one-year extension during the COVID-19 pandemic, with further extensions and additional fund allocations continuing to support exporters.
• Administration: The scheme is implemented by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) through various public and non-public sector banks that provide pre- and post-shipment credit to exporters.

Monitoring and Oversight

• The scheme is jointly monitored by the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) and the RBI through a consultative mechanism.
• This collaboration ensures that the scheme’s objectives are met efficiently and any issues are promptly addressed.

Objectives

• Competitiveness: Helps identified export sectors to be internationally competitive by reducing their financing costs.
• Export Performance: Aims to achieve a high level of export performance by providing financial incentives.
• Focus on Labour-Intensive Sectors: Primarily targets labour-intensive sectors to boost employment and production.

Features of the Scheme

• Certification Requirement: Eligible exporters must submit a certification from an external auditor to the concerned bank to claim the benefit.
• Reimbursement Process: Banks provide the IES benefits to eligible exporters and then claim reimbursement from the RBI based on the external auditor certification furnished by the exporter.
• Interest Equalisation Rates:
  • 2% Benefit: Provided on pre- and post-shipment rupee export credit to merchant and manufacturer exporters of 410 identified tariff lines at the 4-digit level.
  • 3% Benefit: Provided to all MSME (Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises) manufacturer exporters.

Recent Modifications

• Fund-Limited Scheme: The scheme has now been made fund-limited, meaning the benefits are capped based on the availability of funds.
• Benefit Cap: The benefit to individual exporters is capped at Rs 10 Crore per annum per IEC (Import Export Code).
• Lending Rate Restriction: Banks that lend to exporters at an average rate of more than Repo + 4% are debarred under the scheme. This ensures that the benefits are passed on to the exporters without excessive lending costs.

Impact

The IES has played a significant role in supporting Indian exporters by reducing their interest costs, making them more competitive in the global market. By focusing on labour-intensive sectors, it also promotes employment and contributes to the overall economic growth of the country.

4. European Union’s New AI Rules Ignite Battle Over Data Transparency

Sub: Science and tech

Sec: Awareness in IT and Computer

Overview:

• New AI Laws: The European Union (EU) has introduced a new set of laws governing the use of artificial intelligence (AI), aimed at increasing transparency about the data used to train AI systems.
• Implementation: These laws, part of the EU’s recently passed AI Act, will be rolled out over the next two years.
• Transparency Requirement: One key provision requires organizations deploying general-purpose AI models, such as ChatGPT, to provide “detailed summaries” of the content used for training these models.

Key Points:

• Industry Response: AI companies are resistant to these transparency requirements, viewing the data used to train their models as trade secrets.
• Potential Impact: The level of detail required in transparency reports will significantly impact both small AI startups and large tech companies like Google and Meta.

Legal and Regulatory Context:

• Copyright Issues: The new rules come amid ongoing lawsuits and debates about whether AI companies are improperly using copyrighted content, such as bestselling books and Hollywood movies, to train their models without permission.
• US Response: While the US has focused on AI security risks, copyright issues remain unresolved. There is bipartisan support in Congress for requiring tech companies to pay rights holders for data.

Industry Developments:

• Content-Licensing Deals: In response to scrutiny, several tech companies have signed licensing deals with media outlets. For example:
  • OpenAI: Deals with the Financial Times and The Atlantic.
  • Google: Agreements with NewsCorp and Reddit.
• Controversies: Despite these efforts, companies like OpenAI continue to face backlash for not disclosing whether specific content, such as YouTube videos, was used for training their models.

Government Stances:

• Balancing Act: The AI Act aims to balance protecting trade secrets with enabling copyright holders to exercise their rights.
• French Government Position: Under President Emmanuel Macron, France has opposed rules that could hinder European AI startups’ competitiveness and emphasizes the need for Europe to innovate before regulating to avoid stifling technology development.

Conclusion:

The EU’s new AI regulations represent a significant shift towards greater transparency in the AI industry. However, the detailed implementation and its impact on competitiveness, innovation, and intellectual property rights remain contentious and will continue to be debated as the rules are phased in.

European Union’s Artificial Intelligence Act: An Overview

The European Union’s Artificial Intelligence Act (EU AI Act) is a groundbreaking piece of legislation designed to regulate the development and use of artificial intelligence within the EU.

It represents the world’s first comprehensive legal framework for AI, aiming to ensure that AI technologies are developed and used in ways that respect fundamental rights and democratic values.

Key Features of the EU AI Act

• Comprehensive Scope:
  • The act applies to all sectors and takes a horizontal, risk-based approach to regulation.
  • It classifies AI systems into four categories based on the level of risk they pose: Prohibited, high-risk, limited-risk, and minimal-risk.
• Risk Classification and Requirements:
  • Prohibited AI Systems:
    • These include systems that pose a threat to human rights, such as those used for social scoring or mass surveillance. These systems are banned outright.
  • High-Risk AI Systems:
    • Systems that significantly impact people’s lives and rights (e.g., biometric identification, healthcare, education, law enforcement) fall into this category.
    • These systems must meet stringent requirements, including human oversight, security measures, and conformity assessments before being marketed.
  • Limited-Risk AI Systems:
    • Systems that involve user interaction, such as chatbots and image-generation programs, must inform users that they are interacting with AI and offer the option to opt out.
  • Minimal-Risk AI Systems:
    • These include widely used systems that pose negligible risk, like spam filters and smart appliances. They are exempt from specific AI regulations but must comply with existing laws.
  • Consumer Rights and Protections:
    • The act enshrines the right of consumers to make complaints about inappropriate AI use by businesses.
    • Consumers are entitled to receive meaningful explanations for AI-driven decisions that affect their rights.
  • Applicability and Penalties:
    • The law applies to any companies doing business within the EU, regardless of where they are based.
    • Penalties for non-compliance can be severe, with fines of up to 7% of global turnover or €35 million, whichever is higher.
  • Regulatory Framework:
    • The EU AI Act establishes rules and guidelines for specific risks associated with AI, particularly in areas like biometric authentication, facial recognition, and deep fakes.

Implications and Goals

The EU AI Act aims to balance the promotion of AI innovation with the protection of fundamental rights and safety.

By creating clear rules and standards, the act seeks to foster trust in AI technologies and ensure they are used responsibly. The legislation reflects the EU’s commitment to being a global leader in AI regulation, setting a precedent that could influence AI governance worldwide.