bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mobility paradoxes: disruptors, benefits, and agency among mobile female sex workers living with HIV in the Dominican Republic and Tanzania
Authors: De Jesus Maria , Hendrickson Zoé , Rivara Julia , Barrington Clare , Donastorg Yeycy , Perez Martha , Gomez Hoisex , Mbwambo Jessie , Likindikoki Samuel , Kerrigan Deanna
Published: January 2024

Background

Mobility is a key social determinant of health for female sex workers (FSWs). While extant research has focused on the adverse effects of mobility for FSWs, there are very few studies that have examined the multiple ways in which mobility may impact the lives of these mobile women from their perspective. This qualitative study aims to fill this gap by exploring how mobility impacts the lives, livelihoods, and HIV care and treatment from the perspectives of women living with HIV in two epidemic settings, the Dominican Republic and Tanzania.

Methods

We conducted two rounds of in-depth interviews with 12 Dominican women and 12 Tanzanian women who were 18 years plus, had an HIV-positive diagnosis, and reported having exchanged sex for money in the last month. We utilized thematic analysis with a focus on intra- and intercomparisons to observe patterns within and across the two contexts.

Results

We identified a salient pattern of three thematic “mobility paradoxes,” which related to both disruptors and benefits of sex work mobility: (1) uncertainty versus autonomy: while sex work mobility often took place in contexts of vulnerability, which often led to women experiencing violence, it simultaneously benefitted women by allowing them to choose where they stayed and make plans on their terms; (2) financial insecurity versus profitability: although participants sometimes made less money than expected when they traveled for sex work, there was a powerful economic benefit for mobile women as it increased their likelihood of profitability; and (3) disorder and interruptions versus strategy and social support in HIV care and treatment: participants reported that they were sometimes inconsistent with their HIV appointments and medications when they traveled for sex work. On the other hand, mobility contributed to participants often becoming more strategic and creative in their HIV care and treatment and relying on one another for support.

Conclusions

Findings indicate that sex work mobility is a nuanced, complex, and paradoxical phenomenon. Implications include the development of strengths-based and community empowerment mobile health initiatives tailored to mitigate disruptors of mobility while maximizing benefits for this population.
Pedagogy in Gray: Primo Levi as Teacher
Authors: Wexler Anthony C.
Published: January 2024

Between the late 1960s and the mid-1980s, Primo Levi, the great Italian survivor and writer, visited classrooms across Italy to talk with students about the Holocaust. During these visits, students openly challenged Levi’s testimony or failed to understand what he had to say. How Levi responded to these challenges is the subject of this essay, which considers how and why Levi, in what would become his last work, turns to the gray zone and the duplicitous figure of Chaim Rumkowski in an effort to encourage his young readers to reckon with the very thing they most wanted to forget: the sense of vulnerability that leads people, in ways conscious and unconscious, to collude with power and seek privileges. In the process, the essay brings into focus the image of Levi as a gifted teacher, deeply interested in and responsive to his young readers and students.
Mexican Antigones: In Search of a Stolen Mourning
Authors: Ruiz Rosaura Martínez
Published: January 2024

Analyzing the Mexican case of collectives of women currently looking for their disappeared relatives due to an escalation of violence related to the socalled War against Drugs that former president Felipe Calderón (2006–2012) started, this essay develops a new conception of politics grounded not only on rational thought but also on affect. These collectives put forward a materialistic, feminist, and performative mode of politics. Publicly lamenting their losses and literally digging bodies out of Mexican land, these women perform and recover the citizenship that the Mexican state has de facto disavowed of them. The author proposes conceptualizing them as “bad victims” since their taking action does not take away their pain; rather, the public exposure of their lament actually turns them into political agents.
Damnations of Memory: Monument Attacks in the United States, 2015–2021
Authors: Ecks Stefan
Published: January 2024

The United States is in the midst of a struggle over how to remember national history. Since the mid-2010s, much of this struggle has focused on historic monuments. No other country has seen as many monument attacks, renamings, and removals as the United States in this period. This article explores whether monument attacks are an acting out of value conflicts. The distinction between “heroic” and “wounded” modes of remembering the past helps to understand attackers’ motivations. The author compares three types of attacks: 1) on monuments that represent racism, slavery, and white supremacy; 2) monuments associated with violence against Native Americans; and 3) the storming of the u.s. Capitol on January 6, 2021. Freud defined “acting out” (abagieren) as a form of nonverbal working through of past conflicts. Instead of a conscious remembering, a suppressed affect is acted out by repeating it (Wiederholung). The more that conscious remembering is repressed, the stronger the will to act out. This article argues that acting out is a failed attempt at resolving value conflicts.
Haunted Images: Unsettling History and Traumatic Memory in Tintin Wulia's Artmaking
Authors: Yang Jennifer
Published: January 2024

Taking as a point of departure the practice of Chinese-Indonesian Australian artist Tintin Wulia (1972–), the article investigates possibilities for social critique offered by the photographic image as it is co-opted by artists working in post-Reformasi Indonesia. Building on scholarship that aspires toward a more historically informed understanding of contemporary Southeast Asian art, the article connects Wulia's reworkings of photographs to a longer history of image making. This focus on the entanglement of the contemporary and the historical is sustained throughout an analysis of three works by Wulia—Ketok (2002), Invasion (2012), and Great Wallpaper (2012). In highlighting the ways in which Wulia's artmaking responds to, mirrors, and troubles broader structures of seeing, documentation, and representation that have shaped national identity, the article suggests that the reanimation and reproduction of family and identification photographs unsettle forgotten and suppressed histories of trauma unique to the experience of the Chinese ethnic minority in Indonesia.
Αξιολόγηση του πόνου στους μετεγχειρητικούς ασθενείς στη Μονάδα Μεταναισθητικής Φροντίδας στο Πανεπιστημιακό Γενικό Νοσοκομείο Πατρών
Authors: Τσεκούρα Βασιλική
Published: January 2024

Η διενέργεια μίας χειρουργικής επέμβασης διαταράσσει την καθημερινότητα κάθε ανθρώπου καθώς και των οικείων του. Οι ασθενείς μετεγχειρητικά θα βιώσουν πόνο διαφορετικής έντασης. Ο μετεγχειρητικός πόνος είναι πρόβλημα για πολλούς ασθενείς και επηρεάζει την ανάρρωση, τον κίνδυνο μετεγχειρητικών επιπλοκών και την ποιότητα ζωής. Ο αποτελεσματικός έλεγχος του πόνου βελτιώνει τη μετεγχειρητική αποκατάσταση και ενισχύει την ανάρρωση του. ΣΚΟΠΟΣ: Σκοπός της παρούσας μελέτης είναι η αξιολόγηση του πόνου στους μετεγχειρητικούς ασθενείς στη Μονάδα Μεταναισθητικής Φροντίδας (ΜΜΑΦ) του Πανεπιστημιακού Γενικού Νοσοκομείου Πατρών. ΜΕΘΟΔΟΛΟΓΙΑ: Πρόκειται για μία τυχαιοποιημένη διαχρονική μελέτη παρατήρησης σε ένα ελληνικό Δημόσιο Νοσοκομείο με δείγμα 249 χειρουργημένων ασθενών. Η συλλογή των δεδομένων έγινε με τη χρήση των εργαλείων Numerical Rating Scale (NRS), McGill Pain Questionnaire (McGill-MPQ) και Spielberger State –Trait Anxiety Inventory (STA-I). ΑΠΟΤΕΛΕΣΜΑΤΑ: Η ένταση του πόνου αυξομειώθηκε κατά τη διάρκεια του πρώτου 24ώρου μετά την επέμβαση και κυμάνθηκε σε μέτρια προς ήπια επίπεδα. Η χορήγηση αναλγητικών ήταν σύμφωνα με τα διεθνή πρότυπα. Οι ασθενείς εμφάνισαν μέτρια επίπεδα προεγχειρητικού άγχους τα οποία σχετίσθηκαν με τα επίπεδα του μετεγχειρητικού πόνου. ΣΥΜΠΕΡΑΣΜΑΤΑ: Τα επίπεδα της έντασης του πόνου στην παρούσα μελέτη ήταν μέτρια και υποχώρησαν εντός των πρώτων 24 ωρών σε ήπια επίπεδα, γεγονός που αντανακλά την αποτελεσματικότητα της χορηγούμενης αναλγησίας. Είναι σημαντικό να αναγνωρίζονται έγκαιρα τα υψηλά επίπεδα άγχους των χειρουργημένων ασθενών και να εφαρμόζονται κατάλληλες παρεμβάσεις για τη διαχείρισή του, τόσο προεγχειρητικά όσο και μετεγχειρητικά, με στόχο τη θετική έκβαση και ικανοποίηση των ασθενών, στα πλαίσια ενός πρωτοκόλλου που θα εφαρμόζεται στη καθημερινότητα.
Ευρωπαϊκές πολιτικές για την (επαγγελματική) εκπαίδευση και κατάρτιση στο ελληνικό συγκείμενο
Authors: Βασιλόπουλος Ανδρέας
Published: January 2024

Το συγκεκριμένο άρθρο αναζητά τον σύγχρονο ρόλο και τους στόχους που εξυπηρετεί η μεταφορά των ευρωπαϊκών πολιτικών ΔΒΜ για την (επαγγελματική) εκπαίδευση και κατάρτιση στην Ελλάδα. Τελικά, αυτό που διαφαίνεται είναι πως, στο ελληνικό συγκείμενο, δεν γνωρίζουμε το αποτύπωμά της μεταφοράς των ευρωπαϊκών πολιτικών ΔΒΜ για την απασχόληση και την οικονομία ενώ, αντίστοιχα, διαφαίνεται πως έχουν οξυνθεί οι κοινωνικές ανισότητες ως προς την πρόσβαση και τη συμμετοχή στην (επαγγελματική) εκπαίδευση και κατάρτιση στη χώρα μας και, τελικά, επαναδιαμορφώνεται η σχέση μεταξύ κοινωνικής και εκπαιδευτικής πολιτικής.
From the human mind’s powerful unconscious capacities to its digitally extended possibilities
Authors: Davou Bettina
Published: January 2024

This commentary elaborates on the themes presented in this special issue, composed of four theoretical reviews and two empirical studies, that all show how much our understanding of cognition and metacognition has advanced during the last fourty years. From the inherent, both conscious and unconscious, capacities of the human mind to its digitally extended possibilities, as well as to the subtle mechanisms of cognitive and metacognitive development, the papers show how much cognitive research has moved on, from approaching the mind as a cognitive system analogous to a computer, which was the dominant perspective in the beginnings of Cognitive Psychology in the 1960s, to approaching the mind as a human function within a dynamic, multifaceted, demanding, and continuously changing sociocultural environment, above and beyond its component processes and the way they interrelate.
Nous: A powerful machine
Authors: Bablekou Zoe
Published: January 2024

Abstract not available.
Gastroenteritis Rehydration Of children with Severe Acute Malnutrition (GASTROSAM): A Phase II Randomised Controlled trial: Trial Protocol
Authors: Olupot-Olupot Peter , Aloroker Florence , Mpoya Ayub , Mnjalla Hellen , Paasi George , Nakuya Margaret , Houston Kirsty , Obonyo Nchafatso , Hamaluba Mainga , Evans Jennifer A , Dewez Manuel , Atti Salifou , Guindo Ousmane , Ouattara San Maurice , Chara Abdullahi , Sainna Hadiza Alhaji , Amos Omokore Oluseyi , Ogundipe Oluwakemi , Sunyoto Temmy , Coldiron Matthew , LANGENDORF Celine , SCHERRER Marie-Francoise , PETRUCCI Roberta , Connon Roisin , George Elizabeth C. , Gibb Diana M. , Maitland Kathryn
Published: January 2024

Background Children hospitalised with severe acute malnutrition (SAM) are frequently complicated (>50%) by diarrhoea ( ≥3 watery stools/day) which is accompanied by poor outcomes. Rehydration guidelines for SAM are exceptionally conservative and controversial, based upon expert opinion. The guidelines only permit use of intravenous fluids for cases with advanced shock and exclusive use of low sodium intravenous and oral rehydration solutions (ORS) for fear of fluid and/or sodium overload. Children managed in accordance to these guidelines have a very high mortality. The proposed GASTROSAM trial will reappraise current recommendations with mortality as the primary outcome. We hypothesize that liberal rehydration strategies for both intravenous and oral rehydration in SAM children with diarrhoea may reduce adverse outcomes. Methods An open Phase II trial, with a partial factorial design, enrolling children in Uganda, Kenya, Nigeria and Niger aged 6 months to 12 years with SAM hospitalised with gastroenteritis (>3 loose stools/day) and signs of moderate and severe dehydration. In Stratum A (severe dehydration) children will be randomised (1:1:2) to WHO plan C (100mls/kg Ringers Lactate (RL) with intravenous rehydration (IV) given over 3-6 hours according to age including boluses for shock), slow rehydration (100 mls/kg RL over 8 hours (no boluses)) or WHO SAM rehydration regime (ORS only (boluses for shock (standard of care)). Stratum B incorporates all children with moderate dehydration and severe dehydration post-intravenous rehydration and compares (1:1 ratio) standard WHO ORS given for non-SAM (experimental) versus WHO SAM-recommended low-sodium ReSoMal. The primary outcome for intravenous rehydration is mortality to 96 hours and for oral rehydration a change in sodium levels at 24 hours post-randomisation. Secondary outcomes include measures assessing safety (evidence of pulmonary oedema or heart failure); change in sodium from post-iv levels for those in Stratum A; perturbations of electrolyte abnormalities (severe hyponatraemia <125 mmols/L or hypokalaemia. Discussion If the trial shows that rehydration strategies for non-malnourished children are safe and improve mortality in SAM this could prompt revisions to the current treatment recommendations or may prompt future Phase III trials.
Some Questions of the Accounting the Expenses on Undertaking Heavy Repair Main Means
Authors: Polenova S.
Published: January 2024

In article are considered separate innovation, incorporated FSBU 26/2020 «Capital embedding» and FSBU 6/2020 «Main means», which have touched the methods of the accounting the expenses on heavy repair of the main means.
Main Priorities of the Russian Budget for 2024–2026
Authors: Smirnov I.
Published: January 2024

Due to the current circumstances, the main priorities of the country is federal budget for the 2024-2026 triennium are: expenditures on defense and security, on fulfilling social obligations and on technical development have been determined
consequences of long-term therapy with proton pump inhibitors
Authors: Drygała Zuzanna , Wyrwał Julia , Krasuska Martyna , Nowak Karolina , Olejarz Zuzanna , Zielińska Zuzanna , Słowik Magdalena , Nowak Karolina , Nieć Maria , Gierlach Katarzyna
Published: January 2024

Introduction and purpose:

Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) were first developed in the late 1970s and introduced to the market in 1989. They are one of the most commonly prescribed medications worldwide.

PPIs reduce gastric acid secretion in the stomach by inhibiting the hydrogen-potassium ATPase enzyme. They have revolutionized the treatment of diseases related to excessive stomach acid secretion. Among the drugs belonging to this class, we should mention omeprazole, esomeprazole, pantoprazole, lansoprazole, dexlansoprasole and rabeprazole. 

A brief description of the state of knowledge:

Since the 1990s, the use of proton pump inhibitors has been consistently increasing. Doctors prescribe these drugs more frequently, in higher doses, and for longer durations, although such practices are only sometimes fully justified.

Although using them for a short period (less than eight weeks) is relatively safe, there is growing evidence of possible risks linked to their extended use. Many studies highlight the impact of long-term therapy on the development of tumors, deficiencies in micronutrients, the functioning of the skeletal, urinary, nervous, and cardiovascular systems, and the development of infections and diabetes. 

Summary (conclusions):

Indeed, long-term therapy with proton pump inhibitors has an impact on the functioning of the body. Considering the increasing popularity of proton pump inhibitors and their expanding use, it is worth contemplating a more prudent prescription of these drugs by doctors.

It should also be noted that the majority of studies are based on prescription PPIs. Future researchers must also take over-the-counter (OTC) medications into account.
Medieval Literature as an Archive of Human Experiences: The Middle Ages as a Depository of Human Knowledge, Wisdom, Happiness, and Suffering
Authors: Classen Albrecht
Published: January 2024

It ought to be an ongoing effort by all scholars/researchers to question the validity, legitimacy, and purposes of their own discipline because we live in an ever-changing world and must regularly reflect upon our academic self-justification. This also applies to the field of Medieval Studies that faces considerable difficulties and challenges today with declining numbers of students enrolling in respective classes and lacking support by university administrators. This study begins with a general consideration on where we are today in terms of justifying the humanities at large, that is, of the study of literature particularly, and hence of medieval literature. Then this paper focuses on two universal themes, tolerance and then love. While love has always been associated with the courtly world since the twelfth century, toleration and even tolerance do not seem to fit within the medieval context. However, the discussion of both phenomena can be utilized as a particularly effective catalyst for further investigations of medieval culture and literature within the framework of modern and postmodern responses to the Middle Ages. The exploration of this theme as it emerged already at that time offers intriguing opportunities to make the study of medieval literature relevant and important for us today, as does the examination of the love discourse through a historical lens.
Critical Analysis of Women in Kashmir Under Dogra Rule
Authors: Sharma Meenu
Published: January 2024

This article is an attempt to analyse the status of women in the Dogra regime in the former state of Jammu and Kashmir. It seeks to examine the situation of Kashmiri women and the frustration and abuse they experienced under the Dogra regime. Similarly this paper focuses around social evils such as trafficking in women, female feticide and prostitution and also in the fight against opportunities to eradicate the dictatorial, dynastic, primitive and strict doctrines of the Middle Ages. Examines their role. Women occupy an important place in shaping the history of mankind. The tools or status added or given to women frame a flat piece to determine the net progress of the general population. Although they have been singled out / underestimated in all fields such as politics, society, education since ancient times, women have been the basis and important part of any ordinary people on earth. There is also a certainty under Jammu and Kashmir that Dogra’s cynical and barbaric rule of popular times. In addition, the rule affected the entire population of the state, both men and women.
Trans Women Sex Workers in Northern Malaysia: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Afiqah Siti Nur , Rashid Abdul
Published: January 2024

Objective: This study aims to understand in-depth the factors that motivate sex work among trans women, how they source their clients, and to explore their knowledge, attitude, and practices on safe sex. Method: In this qualitative study, a case study approach was selected to explore the motivating factors related to sex work, the factors that encourage sex work, and the safe sex practices among trans women in Northern Malaysia. The snowball sampling method was used and thirteen in-depth interviews were conducted using a semi-structured interview guide. Result: Financial reason was the main motivating factor for sex work. Most of them used online applications or websites to source clients and some used pimps who play an important role in sex education and protection. These trans women were well aware and equipped with knowledge on safe sex, and the use of condoms and attended regular check-ups and counselling when needed. Conclusion: Trans women should not be discriminated against and denied proper employment which can lead them to sex work.
Analysing Opportunities and Obstacles in Ethio-Djibouti Relations: Post-Cold War Era Historical Analysis
Authors: Erko Hailu Gelana
Published: January 2024

This study explores the post-Cold War relationship between Ethiopia and Djibouti, with a focus on events after war era 1990. It investigates their historical connection, Djibouti’s separation from Ethiopia, and the impact of geopolitical dynamics and other factors on their relationship. Historical methods and qualitative research are used to gather and analyze data. The origins of their relationship date back to ancient times when Djibouti was part of Ethiopia before being occupied by the French. After French occupation and post-liberation period, several treaties were signed between the rulers of both countries, but changes in transportation and other challenges altered their relationship. After the Cold War, their relationship reached its peak due to Ethiopia’s dependence on Djibouti as a gateway to the sea, especially after the Ethio-Eritrean war. Military and security cooperation between the two countries was facilitated by global competition for military bases in Djibouti, border conflicts with Eritrea, and joint anti-terrorism initiatives. However, peace agreements between Ethiopia and Eritrea, as well as growing relations with Somaliland, could create additional port options for Ethiopia which could potentially affect Djibouti’s income in the future. Differences in opinion on Somalia’s reunification and irredentism among Somalis may pose challenges for both countries. Additionally, global warming and desertification in Africa could affect water and electricity exports from Ethiopia to Djibouti. Despite these challenges, both countries have benefited from their relationship. In conclusion, this study provides insight into the historical development of Ethiopia and Djibouti’s relationship since the Cold War, highlighting the various factors that have influenced their dynamics. It is a valuable resource for understanding the complexities and potential future developments in their relationship.
Health Information Sharing Pattern on Social Media and User Engagement: A Content Analysis on Facebook Public Posts in Bangladesh
Authors: Hossain Md. Sajjat , Ali Md. Ramjan , Siraj Md. Satil , Ahmad Md. Sarwar , Islam Md. Aktarul
Published: January 2024

In this age of social media, people are using various platforms for seeking and sharing information. This study aims at exploring the patterns of sharing health information on the widely used social media platform Facebook and the users' engagement with the information. For this purpose, the researchers used mixed-method content analysis. We analyzed 485 Facebook posts about 14 types of issues across nine categories. The study results showed that the highest number (27.84%) of posts were related to health awareness, and the lowest were personal opinions. This paper offers a basis for comprehending the processes of sharing health information and how it could affect user involvements. To clarify the structures that guide user interactions with health content on social media, the study also integrates components from communication and information-sharing concepts. The study thus offers empirical insights into the kinds of health information provided, the most popular health topics, and user engagement patterns through a thorough content analysis of public Facebook postings in Bangladesh. The analysis provides sophisticated knowledge of the issues impacting engagement, including language, kind of material, and multimedia use, by measuring the interactions of users. Scholars can understand from this study how users interact with health-related content in the digital era. The result of this study can be used by academics exploring public health, media studies, and health communication to improve theories and create focused interventions for health communication. Additionally, this research can provide useful information for health practitioners to improve their online communication tactics.
Pesticide Application in Trinidadian Food Supply Chain: Food Safety and Sustainability Implications
Authors: Kathiravan G , Georges Brent Norris
Published: January 2024

The use of pesticides, although ensures crop protection and enables to achieve food security, often causes negative externalities for both human and the environment. This study sought to identify the factors that influence pesticide application in Trinidad, a major CARICOM nation, by conducting structured interviews with 174 farmers in eight municipal counties. The data were analysed using Ordered Probit Model. While gender and age showed no significant impact on pesticide use frequency, farm size and experience influenced application behaviours. Larger farms and experienced farmers displayed distinct patterns, calling for customized interventions. Notably, secondary and collegiate education was linked to reduced pesticide use, aligning with sustainability goals. Crop-specific trends were seen with an increase in the use of pesticides in the Solanaceae crop and leafy vegetables, underscoring the need for tailored approaches. Insect and weed issues had a limited impact, however, management of crop diseases was essential in reducing pesticide use. This study emphasizes the need for multi-disciplinary interventions that take into account the size of the farm, the level of experience, the level of education, and the types of crops grown in Trinidad, to promote the sustainable use of pesticides in agriculture. Such comprehensive strategies are essential for enhancing food safety and long-term sustainability of the Trinidad food supply chain, while also mitigating the negative externalities of pesticide application.
Statistical Analysis of Thirty-Year Rainfall Variability in Udaipur District, Rajasthan, India
Authors: Kumar Porush , Kamboj Kuldeep , Vyas Shalu , Mathur Anil K.
Published: January 2024

The rainfall variability for the Udaipur district for thirty years (1991–2020) was statistically analysed in this study. The linear regression (parametric) and Mann–Kendall (non-parametric) trend test along with precipitation indices performed using rainfall data collected from 9 rain gauge stations situated in different parts of the Udaipur district, Rajasthan, India. An increasing trend was found between the months March to November in the Udaipur district, indicating that total annual rainfall has increased in these months during the study period. About 85.20% of the total annual rainfall is occurred due to the southwest monsoon during the rainy season. The PCI (21.74 to 57.92) and CV (11.04 to 21.23) values show the high-nonuniformity and less rainfall variability, respectively. The SRA values for each year have been greater than -0.84 (no drought category) during the study period. The rainfall deficiency took place only four out of 30 years of the study period, 1995, 1999, 2000, and 2002, which fall under the category of large deficiency. The values of the wetness index indicate that during the study period,2006 was the wettest year due to the maximum rainfall (Wi = 179.07) while 2000 was the driest year due to the minimum rainfall (Wi = 54.26). Total annual rainfall has increased in the last three decades, which shows the need for implementation of all necessary plans by the government for proper rainwater utilization and management to prevent future natural disasters like floods.
A Review Paper on Assessing the Environmental Impact of Recycled Aggregate Production and Use
Authors: Nikam Pravin Ankushrao , Dwivedi A. k. , Ahirrao S. P.
Published: January 2024

Garbage management has emerged as one of our planet's most serious challenges, owing to its considerable contribution to environmental issues. Waste from construction and destruction (C&D), together with agricultural waste, glass, and plastic garbage, account for the majority of this waste. Due to its considerable role in environmental problems, garbage management is an urgent global task. Recycling has gained popularity as a way to reduce landfill trash, including the aggregate made from recycled concrete (RCA) from construction and destruction debris (C&D), which has positive environmental impact, the society and the economy. India continues to employ a little amount of RCA in new construction despite its rising cement demand and generation of C&D waste. The use of recycled concrete aggregate (RCA) in construction impacts concrete characteristics with advantages and disadvantages. Challenges include workability, density, and water absorption, mitigated by super plasticizer and altered absorption methods. This paper emphasises the advantages of RCA in structural concrete and the need for enhanced knowledge and ability for sustainable methods for trash management in the context of India's cement consumption and C&D waste management. The paper urges more investigation and effort to advance RCA as a practical option for handling C&D waste and minimising environmental effects.
The Protective Role of Vitamin C on Heamatological (WBC and Hb) Alterations in Commom Carp During Chronic Toxicity of Lead Nitrate
Authors: Majeed Musrat , Chauhan Rajendra , Ahmed Tehleel
Published: January 2024

This investigation intended to assess the outcome of haematological factors (WBCs and Hb) on common carp (Cyprinus carpio) of weight around (80 – 120 g) being exposed to various doses of lead nitrate and the protective role of Vitamin C in response to lead nitrate changes were studied. Chemicals (or elements) known as heavy metals are discharged into the surrounding environment as a consequence of commercial and industrial use as well as leaks from landfills. They are water-soluble but not biodegradable, and they are frequently firmly bound to proteins and polypeptides, even if previous research has issued warnings. The aquatic ecosystem is still impacted by several activities, changing the temperature and posing health risks to fish. The aquatic ecology becomes unbalanced as a result of heavy metals. Several lead nitrate concentrations were applied to the fish, and after 24, 48, 72, and 96 hours, (percentage)% mortality was recorded. Throughout the current experimental period, seven distinct concentrations of lead nitrate was used to determine the LC50 of the substance and evaluate its effect on common carp mortality. The lead nitrate concentrations ranged between 10 and 60 mg/l, and each concentration's death rate was determined. Lead nitrate was found to have an LC100 of 60 mg/l. Therefore, it was determined that the acute 96-hour LC50 value for the common carp, the fish used in this experiment, was 35 mg/l (ppm).
Dilution of Salinity Using Rainwater Harvesting System - An Innovative Approach
Authors: Fatima Kulsum
Published: January 2024

In view of the increasing water demand, this paper recognizes rainwater harvesting as an innovative approach to the dilution of salinity. It proposes dilution of salinity to reduce both the direct and indirect effects of salinity on human health and well-being. This paper focuses on the saline regions of the Union Territory of Delhi. It identifies possibilities for salinity dilution by proposing an innovative approach to implement rainwater harvesting. For this purpose, this paper evaluates the rooftop rainwater harvesting potential for roof area including 100, 200, 300, 400 and 500 square meter area, in the identified saline regions of National Capital Territory (NCT) Delhi. To assess the impact of the rainwater harvesting system on salinity dilution, different maps and data were analysed. These maps include a salinity map of Delhi, a depth-to-water level map of Delhi, water level fluctuation map of Delhi, isohytal map of Delhi, etc.
A Bibliometric Analysis of Electronic Waste Management: Issues and Challenges
Authors: Sharma Shwetaa , Mehta Anil , Sharma Smita
Published: January 2024

Electronic waste is becoming a burgeoning problem for countries worldwide. The increasing waste streams are entering the ecosystem and further deteriorating the health of citizens worldwide. An emerging economy like India, which offers a key market for electronic devices, shares a greater concern for appropriate e-waste management practices. The present study focuses on the growth of academic literature in this field and its future direction. It utilizes the PRISMA method of systematically analyzing the literature in the field. It reports increased publications and the major countries generating this academic data. It also highlights the prominent studies in the field and the conclusions derived. A systematic literature review utilized VOS viewer software and Atlas Ti for generating bibliometric images. The review finally suggests the broader theme areas covered in this domain and the research direction researchers in the field may explore.
Physico-Chemical Characteristics of the River Kulik of the Uttar Dinajpur District of West Bengal, India
Authors: Majumder Jayanta , Mondal Debashri
Published: January 2024

The river Kulik is an internationally important river between India and Bangladesh. Till date, no work has been done to understand the physico-chemical characteristics as well as the pollution status of the river Kulik at the Raiganj and Hemtabad blocks in the Uttar Dinajpur district, West Bengal, India. The goal of this investigation was to analyse different physico-chemical parameters to understand the present level of pollution in the river Kulik for two years, from November 2019 until October 2021. The investigation was carried out on a monthly basis at five selected sampling sites along the river Kulik. Different physico-chemical parameters were analysed following the methods of APHA, 2017. The pH varied from 5.90 to 7.86, which indicates the slightly acidic to slightly alkaline nature of the water. The lowest dissolved oxygen (DO) value recorded at site 5 (1.60 mgL-1) during the winter season of the first year may have been caused by excessive fertilizer application in agricultural fields close to the river Kulik. The abrupt rise in DO levels from March 2020 to June 2020 at every site might be due to the lesser anthropogenic activities during the lockdown in India because of the COVID-19 Pandemic situation. The highest BOD was found in April 2020 at Site 5, which crossed the limits of the CPCB standard set for drinking and bathing. Public awareness is crucial for river pollution control and revival; further study is needed to understand water quality and productivity.
Forest Canopy Density Monitoring by Using Geospatial Techniques: A Study of Gadchiroli District, Maharashtra, India
Authors: S. Medhe Ravindra , Badhe Yogesh P.
Published: January 2024

Forest cover is a crucial part of the environment. It makes an essential contribution to the socio-economic and environmental welfare of the Nation. However, these forests are seriously threatened by deforestation, increased mining activity, population growth, uncontrolled urbanisation, a developing tendency of industrialisation, agricultural land purpose, shifting cultivation, effects on soil, water, and biodiversity, unsustainable forms of human activities and others. As a result, developing strategies to promote sustainable forest management, prevent desertification, prevent soil erosion, and halt environmental degradation is essential. Remote Sensing has enabled humans to observe and obtain information about the earth's surface with spatiotemporal changes. The Indian state of Maharashtra's Gadchiroli district is used as a study region. This study investigates forest canopy density and the spatiotemporal changes in forests. The geographical pattern of forest canopy density is displayed by several indices using data from Landsat 5 and Landsat 8 at 30 m spatial resolution. Try to make the study more relevant in the contemporary world. The research area's forest cover has changed through time, as shown by several multi-temporal data sets (1989 and 2019). The results revealed that between 1989 and 2019, forest canopy cover and forest density decreased. It indicated that over 30 years, 1045.51 sq. km of land had degraded. The amount of highly dense forest has decreased significantly over the research period, whereas the non-forest area has been gradually growing for the past 30 years.
A Comparative Analysis of ARIMA and other Statistical Techniques in Rainfall Forecasting: A Case Study in Kolkata (KMC), West Bengal
Authors: Alam Md Juber , Majumder Arijit
Published: January 2024

Rainfall forecasting in urban areas is a significant consideration for city planners due to its connection with urban water management. In this study, the ARIMA (auto-regressive integrated moving average) model, as well as several regression approaches such as simple linear and second to sixth-degree polynomial regression equations, have been used to forecast the annual rainfall based on 120 years of monthly and annual rainfall from 1901 to 2020 in Kolkata Municipal Corporation (KMC), West Bengal. This study compares the performance of ARIMA and other regression techniques in forecasting rainfall using the metrics of R-squared and root mean square error (RMSE). The ARIMA model has been implemented using machine learning techniques in the Python programming language, while additional regression equations have been computed and analyzed using Microsoft Excel 2019. In order to employ the ARIMA model, all assumptions were assessed, and the optimal model order was established using the import auto-Arima package from the pmdarima.arima library. The stepwise model.aic function yielded 0,1,1 as the most suitable order for the model. The findings indicate that, out of all the regression methods employed for rainfall prediction, the fifth-degree polynomial equation exhibits the lowest root mean square error (RMSE), establishing it as the most effective model for rainfall forecasting in this study.
The Road Ahead
Authors: Ali Nora
Published: January 2024

Nora Ali, international channel manager at ITS firm Clearview Intelligence, provides more information on the company’s solar-powered road stud, SolarLite
Ab initio simulation of imaging of wavelength-sized objects and estimation of resolution
Authors: Maslov A. V. , Erykalin A. A.
Published: January 2024

Image characterization in microscopy, in particular, the estimation of its resolution, requires detailed knowledge of its relation to the object. For objects with sizes comparable to or smaller than the operating wavelength, such a relation can be obtained only by considering electromagnetic scattering described by the Maxwell equations. Here we follow precisely the steps involved in the image formation in microscopy with broad angle illumination—starting from the Maxwell equations to find the scattered far fields for each plane wave, projecting them into a sensor array, and finally assembling the incoherent image by adding all coherent contributions. We consider a classical object—a narrow slit in an absorbing screen, which is taken as a very thin chromium film deposited on a glass substrate. The inapplicability of the Kirchhoff approximation for such a slit is addressed, and the calculated image is subsequently analyzed to evaluate its intrinsic resolution using a point spread function. The difference in image intensities defined using the Poynting vector and the electric field intensity is also discussed.
Suppression of wave-particle duality in multiple slit experiments
Authors: Pavel E.
Published: January 2024

In this paper, we investigated a five-slit diffraction experiment with multiple photons
and a quantum confinement effect (QCE) image sensor. Two types of
diffracted photons were identified: (i) Type I with particle behavior
and (ii) Type II with wave behavior. Type I and Type II diffracted
photons have been characterized. The research showed new aspects of
the breakdown of the diffraction limit by the QCE. Our results reveal
the potential for new applications in optics and nanotechnologies.
Unidirectional control of graphene plasmons by a semiconductor nanorod
Authors: Ma Zenghong , Wang Ride , Chen Zijian , Zhang Lian , Huang Ningning
Published: January 2024

Controllable manipulation of propagating graphene plasmons (GPs) has important significance in the application of nanophotonic and optoelectronic technologies. In this paper, a simple graphene-semiconductor hybrid structure is proposed, in which unidirectional emission of propagating GPs can be achieved and controlled under circularly polarized light illumination. The impact of the distance between the nanorod and graphene and the radius of the nanorod on the excitation efficiency of GPs, as well as the impact on the unidirectional ratio are theoretically calculated in detail. The results show that considering both the unidirectional ratio and the excitation efficiency of GPs, the radius of the nanorod can be selected between 15 and 50 nm. It is also found that the maximum unidirectional ratio η of GPs does not depend on the different distances between the nanorod and graphene. This study not only provides optimized parameters for further experimental implementation, but also offers theoretical support for nanoscale information transmission and processing.
Improving heart rate monitoring in the obese with time-of-flight photoplethysmography (TOF-PPG): a quantitative analysis of source-detector-distance effect
Authors: Badolato Elizabeth , Little Andrew , Le V. N. Du
Published: January 2024

Commercial photoplethysmography (PPG) sensors rely on the measurement of continuous-wave diffuse reflection signals (CW-DRS) to monitor heart rate. Using Monte Carlo modeling of light propagation in skin, we quantitatively evaluate the dependence of continuous-wave photoplethysmography (CW-PPG) in commercial wearables on source-detector distance (SDD). Specifically, when SDD increases from 0.5 mm to 3.3 mm, CW-PPG signal increases by roughly 846% for non-obese (NOB) skin and roughly 683% for morbidly obese (MOB) skin. Ultimately, we introduce the concept of time-of-flight PPG (TOF-PPG) which can significantly improve heart rate signals. Our model shows that the optimized TOF-PPG improves heart rate monitoring experiences by roughly 47.9% in NOB and 93.2% in MOB when SDD = 3.3 mm is at green light. Moving forward, these results will provide a valuable source for hypothesis generation in the scientific community to improve heart rate monitoring.
Photoacoustic expansion microscopy of melanosomes
Authors: Li Tingting , Gong Xinrui , Guo Heng , Xi Lei
Published: January 2024

Optical resolution photoacoustic microscopy (OR-PAM) is a hybrid imaging method for visualizing organelles due to the high spatial resolution and abundant optical contrast. Usually, OR-PAM employs high numerical aperture (NA) objectives and high-frequency ultrasonic detectors to resolve three-dimensional (3D) microstructures of cells. Expansion microscopy (ExM) provides a nanoscale resolution by isotropically enlarging cells instead of utilizing ultrahigh NA objectives. In this Letter, we report the development of photoacoustic expansion microscopy (PA-ExM) that combines the advantages of OR-PAM and ExM for 3D organelle imaging using near-infrared light. We evaluate the performance of PA-ExM using label-free melanoma cells, where the image quality of melanosome distributions in expanded cells using a 40× objective is comparable to that of unexpanded cells using an oil-immersed 100× objective. The results suggest that PA-ExM possesses the great potential to study organelles.
Photonically referenced extremely stable oscillator
Authors: Şafak Kemal , Vargas Erwin Cano , Dai Anan , Edelmann Marvin , Emaury Florian , Balskus Karolis , Rudin Benjamin , Battle Philip , Roberts Tony D. , Slezak Bradley , Hawthorne Todd , Kärtner Franz X.
Published: January 2024

Due to their low phase noise at high carrier frequencies, photonic microwave oscillators are continuously expanding their application areas including digital signal processing, telecommunications, radio astronomy, and RADAR and LIDAR systems. Currently, the lowest noise photonic oscillators rely on traditional optical frequency combs with multiple stabilization loops that incorporate large vacuum components and complex optoelectronic configurations. Hence, the resulting systems are not only challenging to operate but also expensive to maintain. Here, we introduce a significantly simpler solution: a Photonically Referenced Extremely STable Oscillator (PRESTO). PRESTO requires only three key components: a femtosecond laser, a fiber delay element, and a pulse timing detector. The generated microwave at 10 GHz has phase noise levels of −125, −145, and <−160 dBc/Hz at 1, 10, and >100 kHz, respectively, with an integrated timing jitter of only 2 fs root mean square (RMS) over [100 Hz–1 MHz]. This approach offers a reliable solution for simplifying and downsizing photonic oscillators while delivering high performance.
Real-time demonstration of two-aperture coherent digital combining free-space optical transmission with a real-valued MIMO adaptive equalizer
Authors: Ju Cheng , Liu Na , Wang Dongdong , Wang Danshi , Yu Jingze , Qiu Yue
Published: January 2024

Compared with the single-aperture system, the multi-aperture coherent digital combining system has the technical advantage of the effective mitigation of deep fading under strong turbulence, ease of scalability, and potential higher collected optical power. However, the tricky problem of a multi-aperture system is to efficiently combine multiple branch signals with a static skew mismatch and with time-varying characteristics of received power scintillation. In this Letter, a real-valued massive array multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) adaptive equalizer is proposed for the first time to our knowledge to realize multi-aperture channel equalization and combining, simultaneously. In the proof-of-principle system, the feasibility of the combining technique is verified based on a MIMO 4 × 2 equalizer in a 2.5-GBaud data rate QPSK modulation FPGA-based two-aperture coherent receiver with a dynamic turbulence simulator. The results show that no reduction in combining efficiency is observed under static turbulence conditions at the hard-decision forward error correction (HD-FEC) limit of 3.8 × 0−3, and combining efficiencies of 95% and 88% are obtained for the dynamic moderate and strong turbulence.
Electro-optical properties of a graphene device on a tip-enhanced Raman spectroscopy system
Authors: Portes Ary , Nadas Rafael , Jorio Ado , Ramirez Jhonattan C.
Published: January 2024

This paper investigates the impact of graphene on tip-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (TERS) by developing an electromagnetic characterization of the TERS-graphene device system. The study focuses on the interaction between the tip, the gate voltage, and the sample, specifically examining the electromagnetic effects in the system. Employing a finite element method (FEM)-based simulation model, we meticulously dissect the electric field distribution and the Raman amplification when graphene is introduced into the system. Our findings reveal that including graphene results in a marginal reduction in Raman amplification and a negligible variation in the induced charges within the system. To reinforce our simulations, we employ a simplified capacitor model, which corroborates our results, showcasing negligible induced charges and validating the obtained capacitance values. In this manuscript, we also explore the influence of the setup on the electro-optical properties of graphene, revealing a slight variation in conductivity despite strong changes in chemical potential. Overall, this work contributes to understanding TERS’s electromagnetic aspects in the presence of graphene.