bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pemanfaatan Metode SMOTE dan PSO Untuk Mengoptimalkan Tingkat Akurasi Klasifikasi Kepuasan Pelanggan
Authors: Muqtadir Arif , Purnia Dini Silvi
Published: August 2023

Penyedia layanan telekomunikasi Indihome Witel Jakarta Selatan mempunyai keunggulan dan kekurangan yang dapat memberikan kepuasan dan ketidakpuasan yang  membuat pelanggan berpindah ke penyedia layanan internet lain. Pengetahuan tentang klasifikasi konsumen yang puas dan tidak puas sangat dibutuhkan dalam mengambil keputusan. Tujuan dari penelitian ini adalah untuk menganalisa algoritma klasifikasi data mining mana yang menghasilkan nilai akurasi yang paling tinggi untuk klasifikasi kepuasan pelangan Indihome Jakarta Selatan antara algoritma Naïve Bayes, Support Vector Machine, Decission Tree. Dalam mengukur atau memprediksi tingkat kepuasan pelanggan dapat menggunakan algoritma klasifikasi data mining yaitu Naïve Bayes, Support Vector Machine, Decission Tree dengan penambahan fitur  Metode Synthetic Minority Over-sampling Technique (SMOTE) dan teknik Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO).SMOTE berguna untuk menyeimbangkan data dan PSO untuk mengoptimalkan hasil nilai pada algoritma klasifikasi. Penelitian ini menghasilkan penggunaan Algoritma SVM + SMOTE + PSO menghasilkan Acurracy 98.57%, precision tertinggi 98.51%, recall tertinggi 98.51% dan AUC tertinggi 0.995 yang termasuk dalam excellent classification. Penggunaan SMOTE dan PSO pada algoritma klasifikasi terbukti berpengaruh meningkatkan accuracy algoritma SVM namun tidak secara signifikan. The South Jakarta Indihome Witel telecommunication service provider has advantages and disadvantages that can provide satisfaction and dissatisfaction that make customers switch to other internet service providers. Knowledge of the classification of satisfied and dissatisfied consumers is needed in making decisions. The purpose of this study is to analyze which data mining classification algorithm produces the highest accuracy value for the classification of South Jakarta Indihome customer satisfaction between the Naïve Bayes algorithm, Support Vector Machine, and Decission Tree. In measuring or predicting the level of customer satisfaction, data mining classification algorithms can be used, namely Naïve Bayes, Support Vector Machine, Decission Tree with the addition of the Synthetic Minority Over-sampling Technique (SMOTE) method if the data is unbalanced and the Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) technique. SMOTE is useful for balancing data and PSO to optimize the value results in the classification algorithm. This research resulted in the use of the SVM + SMOTE + PSO algorithm resulting in an accuracy of 98.57%, the highest precision of 98.51%, the highest recall of 98.51% and the highest AUC of 0.995 which is included in the excellent classification. The use of SMOTE and PSO in the classification algorithm has proven to have an effect on increasing the accuracy of the SVM algorithm but not significantly.
Analisis Peran Home Industry Dalam Meningkatkan Perekonomian Masyarakat (Studi Pada Win Mebel Bondansari, Kecamatan Wiradesa Kabupaten Pekalongan)
Authors: Mina Nivia Audria , Putri Anastasya , Fauzan Muhammad , Nugraha Hendri Hermawan Adi
Published: August 2023

This study aims to determine the effect of the home furniture industry in improving the economy of the community in Bondansari village. Bondansari is one of the villages in the District of Wiradesa and is close to the District of Siwalan. With a wide expanse of rice fields, the livelihood of the population is not only as farmers, but there are also several home industry entrepreneurs in various types of businesses. In Bondansari Village there is a home industry, namely Win Furniture. This research was conducted using qualitative research methods with supporting data from previous research journals that are relevant to this research. The results of this study indicate a positive impact from the Win Furniture home industry in an effort to improve the economy of the community in Bondansari village. Besides the positive impact, there are obstacles that hinder the development of the home industry win furniture. Lack of capital, lack of equipment, and erratic orders, so that sometimes there is a shortage of manpower for the time promised. The strategy that needs to be done is by building relationships so that they are able to develop their business well and
Analysis of the adaptation potential of entrants to higher military educational institutions
Authors: Kurishko Yevhen , Korchagin Mukola , Otkydach Vladyslav , Harbuzov Oleksandr
Published: August 2023

The purpose of the research given in the article is to analyze the dynamics of adaptation potential of entrants to higher military educational institutions (HMEI). The process of adaptation represents the ability of the human body to adapt to external aggravators or structural changes in the work of its systems. Adaptation of military personnel characterizes the state of body functions adaptation to the conditions of military and professional activity. The success of the physical improvement of future officers and the construction of the physical education process in HMEI depends on the adaptive capabilities of young people who begin professional military training. The current research was carried out for three years on the base of Ivan Kozhedub Kharkiv National Air Force University. Three groups of entrants were observed, a total amount was 232 cadets. The average age of respondents was 18.4 years. Anthropometric (measurement of anthropometric indicators) and medical-biological (rhythmvasometry, electromanometry) research methods were applied. Based on the results of anthropometric and medico-biological measurements, an index of functional changes was determined. Index of functional changes (IFC) is designed to evaluate the level of functional capabilities, as well as determine the adaptation potential of the cardiovascular system. The IFC of the 2019-2021 sets representatives is found within the limits of no more than 2.59 conditional units, which indicates a satisfactory assessment of the adaptation degree of the organism. The results of the conducted experiment demonstrate a statistically significant deterioration of the index of functional changes, the difference in indicators for representatives of the sets of 2019 and 2021 is 1.5%. This fact indicates a gradual deterioration of the adaptation capabilities of entrants to higher military educational institutions.
Tactical preparedness of future law enforcement officers to use measures of physical influence (force) in extreme conditions of service and combat activity
Authors: Khatsaiuk Oleksandr , Kolomoiets Oleksandr , Hohots Vasyl , Kuzmenko Victor , Oleksiienko Serhii , Kyslytsia Serhii
Published: August 2023

Summarizing the results of the analysis of the scientific methodical and reference literature, it is established, that the urgent issue of forming the tactical preparedness of representatives of the institutions of the security and defense sector of Ukraine (SDSU) to use the techniques of service-applied hand-to-hand combat in extreme conditions of service-combat activity (SCA) – an insufficient number of scientific works are devoted to it. This emphasizes the relevance and practical component of the chosen direction of scientific research.

The main goal of the study is the construction and approval of a content-functional model of the formation of the readiness of future law enforcement officers to use tactical schemes of hand-to-hand combat with the enemy in simulated extreme SCA conditions.

As a result of the empirical study, the members of the research group constructed and tested a content-functional model for the formation of the readiness of future law enforcement officers to use tactical schemes for conducting hand-to-hand combat with the enemy in simulated SDSU conditions. When comparing indicators before and after approbation of the above-mentioned content- functional model, it was established that the results obtained at the end of the pedagogical experiment in the studied groups Kg and Eg increased relative to the initial and intermediate indicators, and these differences are mostly reliable (Eg, Р≤0.05).

Prospects for further research in the chosen field of scientific intelligence include the development of tactical schemes for hand-to-hand combat with the enemy in the aquatic environment.
Point-of-Need Innovations: Metal Additive Manufacturing and Repair
Authors: Allison Paul G. , Jordon J. Brian , Williams M. Brady , Pierson Troy , Kinser Ryan , Rushing Timothy W. , Phillips Brandon J. , Doherty Kevin J.
Published: August 2023

This article reports on the development of additive friction stir deposition techniques that use secondary feedstocks such as machine chips and damaged components to make in-field repairs at the point of need. The focus of the initial research was aluminum alloys. Preliminary studies show significant promise for the adaptation of these techniques to hard alloys including steel castings, wrought high strength steels, and titanium alloys.
Machine Learning: Progress Toward Additive Manufacturing Materials Property Allowables Development
Authors: Wang Annie , Simkin Zach , Frazier William E.
Published: August 2023

This article starts with a synopsis of machine learning (ML) and explores the characteristics of ML algorithms. It then reports on the results of two recently completed research projects investigating the potential use of ML to establish additive manufacturing materials property allowables. Although continued research and development work is required, the results are very promising.
Advancing Diffusion Bonded Compact Heat Exchangers for High Temperature Applications
Authors: Elbakhshwan Mohamed , Desorcy Lukas , Jentz Ian , Anderson Mark , Gao Fei , Allen Todd , Messner Mark , McMurtrey Mike , Stubbins Jim , Shingledecker John , Nollet Billy , Keating Bob , McKillup Suzanne
Published: August 2023

Enhancement of the diffusion bonding process for the development of compact heat exchangers (CHXs) provides an energy efficient solution for high-temperature applications in advanced nuclear reactors and other technologies. However, available information is limited concerning the diffusion bonding (and manufacturing) of CHXs in high temperature applications and associated selection of bonded materials, bonding conditions, mechanical performance, and thermo-fluid characteristics. This article reviews the available knowledge and the ongoing research being conducted to address gaps in information and application.
Archaeometallurgical Study of Argentinian Railway Parts
Authors: Carrizo Patricia Silvana
Published: August 2023

A recent metallographic and historical analysis of two parts from the Buenos Aires to Pacific Railroad railway looked at possible manufacturing techniques of the parts in question. The information collected is useful for comparison with techniques and materials used at that time as well as with current techniques. The analysis questioned whether the material itself has varied or evolved from the metallurgical point of view, and confirmed the quality of raw material used to construct the historic railway line.
Cybersecurity for Heat Treaters
Authors: Coleman Joe
Published: August 2023

This article describes recent U.S. government cybersecurity regulations and their applicability to the heat treating industry. Compliance mitigates the impact of lost or compromised data, secures sensitive information, helps maintain a trustworthy reputation with customers, and helps to avoid the ensuing legal trouble that comes after a cybersecurity breach.
Thermal Spray Publishing: A Scientometric Portrait of 40 Years of Contributions
Authors: Liberati Andre C.
Published: August 2023

A study of the metrics on thermal spray citations provides a picture of the industry’s research community. This brief article aims to draw a scientometric portrait of the contributions made by authors in the field of thermal spray during the past 40 years, to establish a baseline for what may be expected from current and future thermal spray researchers.
Сборник тестовых заданий по курсу «Глобалистика (Мировая политика)» : учебно-методическое пособие / А.О. Наумов, М.В. Белоусова. – 2-е изд., испр. и доп. – М. : «КДУ», «Добросвет», 2023 – 122 с.
Authors: Наумов А.О. , Белоусова М.В.
Published: August 2023

В учебно-методическое пособие вошли тестовые задания по курсу «Глобалистика (Мировая политика)», преподаваемом на факультете государственного управления МГУ имени М.В. Ломоносова. Сборник включает в себя пять вариантов заданий, каждый из которых состоит из 85 вопросов по различным разделам курса. Тесты рассчитаны на проверку знаний в области становления и развития современного мира, проблем взаимодействия существующих ныне цивилизаций и протекающих в них политических, социально-экономических и культурных процессах. Второе издание учебно-методического пособия включает дополнительные вопросы, связанные со стремительно развивающимися событиями на мировой арене с начала 2022 года. Издание адресовано студентам, магистрантам, аспирантам, преподавателям гуманитарных факультетов высших учебных заведений.
Principais causas de condenação de carcaças suínas em estabelecimento sob Serviço de Inspeção Municipal (SIM) em Venâncio Aires, Rio Grande do Sul.
Authors: Rosa Jaqueline Amanda Garcia da , De Vargas Diego Prado , Leite Daniel Terra
Published: August 2023

Pig farming has been growing exponentially over the years in Brazil. Together, Rio Grande do Sul, Santa Catarina and Paraná are responsible for the largest number of pigs slaughtered in national territory. The importance of the Veterinarian is highlighted in quality assurance from the beginning to the end of the processes related to the production chain, aiming at health safety and animal welfare. In this way, we sought to list the causes of pig carcass condemnation within a slaughterhouse under municipal inspection, in the city of Venâncio Aires, Rio Grande do Sul, in the period of January to September 2022, correlating the causes of condemnations with possible management failures during the rearing and finishing of pigs. It was observed that there is a great loss of carcasses and viscera related to alterations, such as multiple abscesses found in the carcasses, and diseases such as pleuropneumonia, lymphadenitis and caudophagy. The importance of the veterinarian is evident, both working in slaughterhouses to guarantee the quality and safety of the products for the consumer, and in the field, providing quality technical assistance, since many of the problems encountered during slaughter are the result of improper handling on the farms.
Legal basis of rural hospitality in the context of inclusive rural development
Authors: Hafurova Olena
Published: August 2023

The article provides a scientific and theoretical analysis of the legal framework of rural hospitality in Ukraine in the context of inclusive rural development. Special attention is paid to the justification of the expediency of developing and adopting a special law which would define the general legal, organizational, socio-economic principles of regulation of citizens’ activities in this area. It is noted that the draft Law of Ukraine “On Stimulating the Development of Rural Hospitality in Ukraine” is characterized by a number of positive features. These include the following: rural hospitality is defined as a diversified activity that can be carried out by any household located in rural areas; the provision of rural hospitality services is not an entrepreneurial activity (Article 3 of the draft). Thus, the process of establishing legislation in the field of rural hospitality is currently underway. It is aimed at creating a framework for broader involvement of the rural population in the provision of tourism services and improving their economic situation. This contributes to improving the level and quality of life in rural areas, and thus to ensuring inclusive rural development.
Study of green roof application in Sri Lanka
Authors:   Department of Building Economics, University of Moratuwa, Sri Lanka, Kodituwakku D. , Ramachandra T. ,   Department of Building Economics, University of Moratuwa, Sri Lanka, Madushika U.G.D. ,   Department of Real Estate and Construction, The University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong
Published: August 2023

Green roofs are one of the green practices, having widespread use in the European and Asian regions due to their numerous benefits. However, country like Sri Lanka is yet to experience its optimum potential application. Thus, this study investigates the application of green roofs in Sri Lanka in terms of current status of its application, role in the green rating systems and implementation barriers to enhance its application in Sri Lanka. Initially, a preliminary survey, followed by semi-structured interviews with green roof construction professionals was conducted where the collected data were analysed using descriptive data analysis techniques. Amongst the identified set of applications, residential and commercial buildings are the most common building types with the extensive and semi-intensive green roof types. Although the most commonly used rating systems of GREENSL® and LEED have various provisions, a very few out of number of buildings surveyed have incorporated green roofs. According to the green roof construction professionals, the application is limited in the Sri Lankan buildings due to fourteen (14) key barriers. Amongst those barriers, higher initial and maintenance costs, poor awareness of the public on the concept and lack of clients’ willingness on the concept are the mostly identified barriers by the interviewees. Hence, the study recommends taking necessary actions to mitigate the barriers in order to enhance the green roof applications on the Sri Lankan buildings to optimise the multiple benefits if offers.
Can Colombo port city high-rise tower and podium morphology improve pollutant dispersion and urban ventilation?
Authors:   Department of Architecture, University of Moratuwa, Sri Lanka, Vidanapathirana M. , Perera N. , Emmanuel R. ,   Department of Civil Engineering and Environmental Management, Glasgow Caledonian University, United Kingdom, Coorey S. ,   Department of Architecture, University of Moratuwa, Sri Lanka
Published: August 2023

A rapid increase in high-rise building clusters within developing cities has led to mounting environmental and climatic issues. This is especially highlighted in Asian cities where extreme tropical climates are accentuated by ad-hoc developments, that in turn create unfavourable urban environments. Traffic emissions and air pollution, directly and indirectly, effect the Urban Heat Island (UHI) factor. Studies show that urban ventilation is a key mechanism to ameliorate UHI, reduce pollution stagnation, improve air quality, and reduce dependence on energy-consuming systems, thereby enhancing future sustainability. A research gap on the effect of the morphology of high-rise towers, and tower and podium forms as clusters on air pollution dispersion was identified. A high-rise cluster in the proposed Port City in Colombo, Sri Lanka was identified, and possible building forms were designed based on guidelines given by the local authority. Simplified three-dimensional building clusters were simulated using Ansys Fluent and a RANS k-epsilon turbulence model. Results suggest the addition of a podium has minimal impact on pollution dispersion when compared with only a tower form. Block podiums were found to concentrate pollution within the podium height, while tiered podiums pushed street pollution upwards along the face of a podium. However, more uniform dispersion was seen in tiered podiums, reducing overall pollution concentrations within the study area. Overall, as per requirement and context, it is highlighted that podium forms can be designed to create better-ventilated urban spaces with good air quality, within a high-rise high-dense environment.
Exploring sustainable project management practices: a perspective of mep contractors in Sri Lanka
Authors:   Department of Building Economics, University of Moratuwa, Sri Lanka, Amri M.N.M. , Francis M. , Liyanawatta T.N.
Published: August 2023

The construction industry can contribute to social inequality and environmental degradation. In order to address these concerns, effective management throughout their lifecycle is crucial. Sustainable Project Management (SPM) is a managerial concept that sustainability of a project from inception to completion. Although SPM has received less attention compared to other concepts, it assists project managers in achieving sustainability across all three bottom lines. This study examines the SPM methods employed by mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) contractors in Sri Lanka. MEP sector is selected to narrow down the scope of the study. Subsequently, a qualitative research approach was adopted to collect data with semi-structured interviews involving ten MEP contractors who have experience and exposure in the industry. The sample was selected using snowballing sampling to ensure the diverse representation of MEP contractors of different scales throughout the study. The research findings highlight that the adoption of SPM practices in Sri Lanka is relatively low compared to international standards, primarily due to a lack of awareness among project managers. Furthermore, MEP managers face challenges in exerting control over their environments, emphasizing the need for a change in attitudes. The results of this study will contribute to efforts aimed at reducing the environmental impact of construction activities, promoting social equity, and enhancing long-term economic viability. Moreover, these findings will serve as a catalyst for further research exploring potential improvements in the implementation of SPM practices.
Highly effective circular economic practices for the life cycle of a construction project
Authors:   Department of Building Economics, University of Moratuwa, Sri Lanka, Ishan M . , Gamage I. , Lingasabesan V.
Published: August 2023

The circular economy (CE) concept has emerged as an important aspect of sustainable development in the construction industry. Inadequate knowledge and understanding on properly integrating CE practices into the construction life cycle is a significant obstacle. Thus, this research aimed to investigate the most effective CE practices at each stage of a construction project's life cycle. A literature review was conducted to comprehend the theoretical framework of the CE concept and its application in the construction industry. Adhering to a quantitative approach, a google questionnaire was distributed among experts in the field to identify the most effective CE practices for the Sri Lankan construction industry. The study's population included 70 industry experts, and a mandatory 50% response rate was achieved. In the group of construction industry experts, subgroup of experts with knowledge of sustainable construction practices was chosen using the cluster sampling method to achieve reliability of the data. According to the study's findings, the most effective CE practices for the various stages of a construction project's life cycle included minimising waste generation, promoting the use of sustainable materials, implementing prefabrication techniques, and developing a circular supply chain. The findings of the study offer insights into CE practices that can be implemented in the Sri Lankan construction industry to improve sustainability and reduce environmental impacts throughout the life cycle of a construction project. The study adds to the body of knowledge on CE practices in the construction industry and serves as a foundation for future research on the subject.
Honour codes and their influence on academic integrity in engineering education
Authors:   College of Engineering, A’Sharqiyah University, Sultanate of Oman, Wamuziri Sam
Published: August 2023

The subject of academic dishonesty at colleges and universities is an old one. However, it is now increasingly believed to be an area of discussion and concern world-wide. Academic dishonesty takes many forms. These include plagiarism, cheating in examinations, contract cheating, etc. The causes of academic dishonesty include lack of awareness particularly in relation to plagiarism, student perceptions of peer behaviour, failure to integrity students into the academic community and financial, time or academic pressures, etc. Honour codes have for long been developed and implemented at colleges and universities in the USA. Honour codes include traditional or modified honour codes. Honour codes underline the core values of an institution and enable students to play a much bigger role to influence peer behaviour and to police academic misconduct. Honour codes promote holistic growth and development of students rather than focussing on the punitive nature of academic integrity policies per se. The work reported in this paper is based on a literature review and concludes that tackling academic dishonesty effectively at colleges and universities require a multi-pronged approach including implementation of the academic integrity policies, the honour code, creative pedagogical practices and a supportive approach to learning and development of students’ skills.
Lean six sigma tools for improving administrative processes in different sectors: a systematic review
Authors:   Department of Building Economics, University of Moratuwa, Sri Lanka, Ruwanpura U.D.R.E. , Perera B.A.K.S. , Ranadewa K.A.T.O.
Published: August 2023

Lean Six Sigma (LSS) is widely accepted as an effective management concept in minimising wastes and variation of the processes. However, few studies can be found to integrate LSS for improving administrative processes in manufacturing and services industries. Out of the practicing LSS tools, identification of the most suitable LSS tools for each stage of LSS is vital to streamline the administrative process. Although, studies were conducted on lean implementation in different sectors in ad-hoc manner, dearth of studies were focused to compare the existing literature in detail. Therefore, the study aimed to conduct a systematic literature review (SLR) on LSS tools used in administrative processes in different sectors for every LSS stage. This SLR was conducted to addressing the above-mentioned research gap by adopting to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) 2020 guideline for healthcare, education, public administration and other sectors. The initial repository comprised with 1817 and the final repository was comprised with 23 articles. The SLR has contributed to the theory by exploring suitable LSS tools and techniques for each DMAIC (Define, Measure, Analysis, Improvement, and Control) stages of LSS. Out of the identified tools, SIPOC and project charter can be recommended for the define stage whereas, process map is suggested for the measure stage. Further, Cause and effect analysis, Value Stream Mapping (VSM) and control charts are recommended for analysis, improvement and control stages. Further, some specific LSS tools were screened as a specifically applied to a particular sector. Ultimately, the results will propose to industry by applying appropriate LSS tools for administrative processes in different sectors which are not transformed into LSS incorporated internal environment.
Legal and regulatory framework related to unsolicited proposals in various countries: a systematic review for procurement stage
Authors:   Department of Building Economics, University of Moratuwa, Sri Lanka, Fernando G. , Kulathunga U. , Thayaparan M. , Hadiwattege C.
Published: August 2023

An Unsolicited Proposal (USP) is a privately initiated process that is an alternative to the solicited procurement method. Public Private Partnerships (PPPs) that are launched on an unsolicited basis, become popular among governments since they enable faster delivery of projects and avoid the time-consuming process of competitive tendering. If improperly managed, USPs may lead to numerous public rallies and protests, poor value for money, a failure to meet the nation's true sociological and economic necessities, and the satisfaction of only a handful of public and private officials. Most governments accept and recognise USPs by integrating various management systems into their procurement processes to mitigate the negative effects of it. Strengthening the existing legal and regulatory framework is one such management system. The authors conducted a detailed study of the existing legal and regulatory framework of countries that are having matured and developed PPP environments and a provision to entertain unsolicited PPPs. Based on the findings from the detailed study, a conceptual framework was developed for the procurement of USPs that can be utilised to reform existing legal and regulatory frameworks of host countries.
Modelling design stage risks in modular integrated construction projects in Sri Lanka
Authors:   School of Engineering and the Built Environment, Birmingham City University, United Kingdom, Sandeepani T.A.S. , Ekanayake E.M.A.C. , Ashayeri I.
Published: August 2023

Modular integrated Construction (MiC) as a promising construction method has instigated significant advancements in the construction industry, especially in developed countries. However, the MiC has been becoming popular in developing countries such as Sri Lanka given its potential to improve construction efficiency, reduce cost and waste, and enhance quality. The design stage is considered critical in MiC since design errors can propagate to manufacturing and assembly issues and entire project failure. Further, as the Sri Lankan construction industry is in the preliminary stages of MiC implementation, the most risk-exposing stage is the design stage. Therefore, it is essential to explore the design stage risks (DSRs) affecting MiC in Sri Lanka to enable timely decision-making to withstand the potential risks in its implementation. Under these circumstances, this study proposed and developed a Social Network Analysis (SNA) model to identify the most critical DSRs and their co-relational impacts by probing and assessing the data collected through an industry expert survey. The findings revealed that the inaccuracy of design information, inadequate planning for design and unclear design specifications are the most critical DSRs in MiC initiation in Sri Lanka among the identified 14 total risks. Further, three significant risk categories were determined, and the co-relational impact of each risk was assessed as depicted in the SNA model. Moreover, the study findings would motivate industry professionals to appreciate and address the critical DSRs in the context of the three respective categories and thereby develop adequate measures to successfully withstand them to boost industrial performance.
Principles of circular economy for building sector: a systematic review
Authors:   Department of Building Economics, University of Moratuwa, Sri Lanka, Gowsiga M. , Ramachandra T. ,   Department of Building Economics, University of Moratuwa, Sri Lanka, Sridarran P. ,   Department of Facilities Management, University of Moratuwa, Sri Lanka, Thurairajah N. ,   Department of Architecture and Built Environment, Northumbria University, United Kingdom
Published: August 2023

Globally, the building sector accounts for almost 40% of resource use and waste production and nearly 33% of greenhouse gas emissions. The Circular Economy (CE) and the adoption of its principles are currently recognised as one of the options to address these unsustainable issues. Despite, these principles are represented differently within three main domains: (1) collections of R-imperatives or R-framework, (2) CE loops, and (3) the ReSOLVE model, makes it a challenge for embracing CE principles in the building sector. A systematic literature review was carried out to respond to the research question "What are the R-imperatives that are applicable for the building sector as CE principles?", using Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews (PRISMA). It yielded a total of 23 papers to analyse. This review confirms that although alternative domains exist, the most practical CE principles seem to be confined to R-imperatives. The study provides 17 R-imperatives in the descending order of their circularity, along with their definitions. Finally, these R-imperatives are logically linked with principles of other two CE domains. This would provide a clear understanding of CE principles and thereby enable CE applications in the building sector.
Quantity surveyor’s perspective on document management in construction projects: an exploratory study in Sri Lanka
Authors:   Department of Building Economics, University of Moratuwa, Sri Lanka, Rathnayaka L.S.D. , Nadeetharu B.K.M. , Kulatunga U.
Published: August 2023

Electronic Document Management Systems (EDMS) have become increasingly popular in recent years as construction organisations seek to improve document management efficiency, productivity, and security. However, the Quantity Surveyor (QS), a key stakeholder responsible for construction documentation management, has less adapted to it in the Sri Lankan context. Accordingly, this study used twelve expert interviews to identify the status of documentation management in the Sri Lankan construction industry from a QS perspective. Manual content analysis was used to analyse the findings. Despite the disadvantages, the conventional DMS approach is still prevalent in the Sri Lankan context. Despite the QSs having a basic understanding of the EDMS approach and being willing to transit to EDMS, they are less familiar with EDMS software. In addition, project size, limited availability of technical facilities, and the reluctance of government and professionals cause to continue this adaptation are still a barrier. The findings of this research can be based on future studies on different stakeholder perspectives. Since conventional DMS is proved to be a less efficient solution for the document management of construction projects and EDMS is also difficult to be initiated, these findings can be benchmarked by policymakers to address the identified causes of the issue.
Adoptability of bioplastic as a sustainable material in Sri Lankan building construction industry
Authors:   Department of Building Economics, University of Moratuwa, Sri Lanka, Muhammed N.S. , Gallage S.D. , Eranga B.A.I. , Madushanka T.H.
Published: August 2023

The Sri Lankan construction industry is facing significant challenges in building construction projects due to the negative impacts of using traditional building materials. Consequently, there has been a surge of interest in sustainable materials, and among them, bioplastics have emerged as a promising alternative. The aim of this study is to investigate the potential of bioplastics as a sustainable building material specifically for the Sri Lankan construction industry. To achieve this, the study applied a qualitative research approach to collect data through semi-structured interviews. The research objectives are to identify alternative sustainable materials used in construction and identify how bioplastics could contribute to the construction industry as ta sustainable material. In addition to that, the study also identifies the motivators and challenges to the use of polymer building materials in Sri Lanka and subsequently develop a framework including potential strategies to use bioplastic as a sustainable construction material. The study's findings have identified significant factors that establish bioplastics as a sustainable material suitable for the Sri Lankan construction sector. Moreover, the research offers valuable recommendations to address challenges related to the adoption of polymer building materials. Furthermore, the study would contribute to the formulation of policies and regulations that promote the use of bioplastics as a sustainable building material.
The Impact of the depletion of foreign currency reserves on the Sri Lankan construction industry
Authors:   Department of Quantity Surveying, Sri Lanka Institute of Information Technology, Sri Lanka, Jayasinghe N.M. , Palliyaguru R.S.
Published: August 2023

The construction industry is highly diverse and interconnects with many other industries The industry generated job opportunities to many and a significant economic multiplier. However, it was observed that an economic change in the country affects the industry adversely. The depletion of foreign currency reserves has significantly impacted Sri Lanka's construction industry in the recent past, from 2019 to date. Many stakeholders are currently encountering many issues, and as a result, many construction projects are in temporary shutdown. This study aimed to investigate the impact of foreign currency depletion on the Sri Lankan construction industry. The data collected from 15 semi-structured interviews conducted among professionals from the construction industry who work under contractors and professionals from the finance industry who are involved in the economic sector. A detailed literature study was undertaken to determine the causes and effects of the depletion of foreign reserves and qualitative semi-structured interviews were used to identify the positive and negative effects of the depletion of foreign currency on the construction industry. As a result, the findings featured results such as financial issues, unemployment, and frequent price escalation as severe impacts on the industry. The discussion also highlighted the strategies which are already imposed and suggested by the government and construction organisations. It included, implementing more foreign-funded projects, outsourcing new contracting or consulting overseas projects and expanding the export industry. Finally, the paper reveals the possible remedial strategies to minimise the impact of foreign currency depletion in the future.
Transaction costs in Australian construction projects
Authors:   School of Architecture and Built Environment, Deakin University, Australia, Fernando S. , Gurmu A.
Published: August 2023

Construction projects involve transaction costs (TCs) both during the pre and post-contract phases. If these costs are not managed appropriately, they can lead to project cost overruns. The purpose of this study is to explore the transaction costs, their determinants and mitigation strategies in the Australian construction industry. Qualitative data were collected by conducting semi-structured interviews with professionals who have been working as contract administrators, project managers, quantity surveyors and construction managers. The data were then analysed using thematic and content analysis techniques by using NVivo software. The research identified context-specific transaction costs such as statutory charges, opportunity costs, cost of compliance, and lost-time costs. Moreover, the findings indicate that factors affecting transaction costs are interrelated; hence, each factor affects more than one type of transaction cost. It was also found that rules and regulations imposed by regulatory bodies, the type of bidding procedure used, and the use of non-integrated procurement methods increase transaction costs. Further, mitigation strategies for minimising TCs such as recruitment of qualified experts, building trust and relationships, and the use of digital technologies such as BIM, drones and point cloud were identified.
Driving Safety Education at Sewon Muhammadiyah Middle School, Bantul, Daerah Istimewa Yogyakarta
Authors: Rahmawati Anita , P. Rosyidi Sri atmaja , Prayuda Hakas , I. Maulana Taufiq
Published: August 2023

Education about the importance of road safety is a way to shape children mindset and character, especially adolescence who have the potential to actively traffic on the road. Equipping them with knowledge and raising awareness of traffic rules in teenagers is expected to be able to help give them the best chance of keeping safe while they’re young and as they get older -become obeying people and pioneers of road safety. This service activity is a concrete step to create young people awareness about the importance of road and driving safety. Driving safety education at Sewon Muhammadiyah Middle School, Bantul becomes an effort to provide knowledge readiness for pre-teenagers (under 16 years) so that it is hoped that they will be scientifically and mentally ready to drive at the age of 17 and over (after they get a driver's license/SIM). From this community service activity, the results showed an increase in understanding related to driving safety for adolescence, especially children in grade 2 junior high school at Sewon Muhammadiyah Middle School, as indicated by the average pre-test results that answered correctly at 48.18% and post-test results that answered correctly at 81. 90%. There was an increase in understanding of safety education participants by 33.72%.
Aging and Life Satisfaction: Focusing on Gender Difference
Authors:   Korea Gerontological Society, Kim Young Bum
Published: August 2023

This study aimed to empirically analyze whether people engaged more in social activities that provided positive emotion as they
aged, and whether age mediated by social activity participation showed indirect effect on life satisfaction. In this study, we focused on
whether social activities mediating effect of age were different by gender, paying particular attention to social role theory of gender difference.
The data used for the analysis were from the 2016 Chuncheon Area Senior Citizen Survey, which was collected from 65-year or over
elderly living in the Chuncheon area. Out of a sample of 1,000, 911 cases were included in the analysis after excluding cases elderly aged
85 or over or having no children. This study utilized a path analysis model to analyze the indirect effect of age mediated with various
social activities participation on life satisfaction. The main findings were as follows. In the women sample, the direct effect of age on
life satisfaction was not significant, but participation in leisure activities and contact with children and friends and neighbors were significantly
associated with life satisfaction. In addition, the indirect effects of age mediated by various social activities were not significant. Second,
in men sample, the direct effect of age on life satisfaction was not significant, but participation in leisure activities and contact with friends
and neighbors were significantly related to life satisfaction. In addition, the indirect effect of age mediated by participation in leisure activities
was significant.
The Impact of Future Time Perspective on Self-Esteem among Korean Young and Older Adults: Does Age Matter?
Authors:   Korea Gerontological Society, Lee Juhyeong , Kim Giyeon
Published: August 2023

The purpose of the present study was to examine the effect of future time perspective on self-esteem among Korean young and
older adults. The participants were young adults aged from 20 to 29 (n=157) and older adults aged 60 or older (n=150). Hierarchical regression
analyses were conducted. After adjusting for covariates, the results showed that age group moderated the relationship between future time
perspective and self-esteem. The test of a conditional effect of age group demonstrated that young and older adults who reported higher
levels of future time perspective tended to have higher self-esteem. Our findings suggest that adopting an open-ended future time perspective
could positively impact the self-esteem of both young and older adults in South Korea. In addition, based on our findings, we shed light
on the role of future time perspective as a psychological intervention to enhance self-esteem among young and older adults in South Korea.
Development and Validation of the Life Skills Scale for Older adults
Authors:   Korea Gerontological Society, Kwon Hyojung , Kwon Sungho , lee Doheung
Published: August 2023

The purpose of this research is the construct of life skills for older adults was established after the overall perception of life
skills required in the daily life of older adults were explored, and then life skills necessary in late life was presented as an integrated model
through a complex dimension of physical, psychological, and social aspects. After establishing the construct, a tool for measuring life skills
for older adults was ultimately developed. In-depth interviews were conducted with 17 older adults aged between 65~84 to understand their
experiences and perceptions regarding life skills for older adults. Also, an open-ended survey was conducted on 91 older adults participants
to gather various opinions. Through inductive analysis, the construct of life skills for older adults was established with five factors: physical
activity performance skills, daily self-efficacy skills, adaptation and acceptance skills, participation skills in social activities, and engagement
skills in digital society. Preliminary questions were developed based on the details and construct of life skills for older adults established,
of which 35 questions of 5 factors were selected through evaluating content validity. The goodness-of-it of the items and the possibility
of using factor analysis were confirmed through data collected in the survey. 23 questions of 5 factors were finally determined to measure
the life skills for older adults through confirmatory factor analysis. Convergent validity and discriminant validity were checked to verify
that the final 23 questions accurately measured the variable’s construct. Concurrent validity, cross validity, the equivalence between groups
based on gender were additionally checked to confirm validity. The life skills scale for older adults developed through this study is a tool which evaluates the level of life skills for older adults in the physical, psychological, and social aspects. It not only provides useful information
in predicting increase in quality of life in late life, but also can be used in future studies which focus on researching relations between
variables regarding psychosocial factors of older adults.
Sewing thread lodged under a cat's tongue caused an intestinal obstruction: a case report
Authors: Mylostyvyi Roman , Souza-Junior João Batista Freire , Rahmoun Djallal Eddine , Samardžija Marko , Wrzecińska Marcjanna , Fares Mohammed Amine , Lone Farooz , Gutyj Bogdan Gutyj , Mylostуva Daria
Published: August 2023

A 4-year-old cat was admitted to a private veterinary clinic with complaints of lethargy, intermittent vomiting, and anorexia. A sewing thread was found under the cat's tongue on clinical examination. An abdominal ultrasound confirmed the presence of a linear foreign body in the duodenum. Emergency surgery was performed on the day of the presentation. The sewing thread was successfully extracted by enterotomy. The cat's recovery proceeded without complications.