bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Challenges and solutions for women in construction industry related disciplines: a literature review
Authors:   School of Architecture and Civil Engineering, The University of Adelaide, Australia, Rodrigo Navodana , Wijewickrama M.K.C.S. , Rajenthiran Nirusika , Jayathilaka Wimarshi , Chang Ruidong
Published: September 2024

The construction industry has been male dominated for a long time, making it challenging for women to enter or advance in their careers. Despite significant reserves and initiatives by governments, organisations, construction, and researchers, the industry still has a significant gender gap, with women being underrepresented both in terms of numbers and seniority. Although many studies have been conducted into the education, recruitment, and retention of women in the industry, the reasons for their underrepresentation are still not fully understood. Efforts to attract and retain women in construction have been implemented unevenly on an ad hoc basis. This study aims to examine the challenges that women face while developing their careers in the construction industry-related disciplines and provide solutions to mitigate those challenges. Moreover, this study seeks to investigate the challenges and solutions through an extensive literature review. This literature review has exposed that extreme and inflexible work hours, gendered culture and informal rules, limited career development opportunities, and undesirable perceptions of women’s abilities are the main factors and problems that cause women to leave the construction industry. Moreover, considering solutions to overcome challenges in the career of women in construction mainly by training, targeting women in recruitment, developing new skills, mentoring, strong industry partnerships to create female-friendly work experiences and improved policies. This study would be beneficial for the government, construction organisations, and women who are willing to work in the construction industry-related disciplines.
Maturity model for digitalisation of small and medium enterprise contractors in the Sri Lankan construction industry: a focus on client and technology dimensions
Authors:   Department of Quantity Surveying, University of Vocational Technology, Sri Lanka, Devapriya D.P.A.L.C. , Palliyaguru R. ,   School of the Built Environment, Oxford Brookes University, United Kingdom
Published: September 2024

Small and Medium-Scale Enterprises (SMEs) tremendously contribute to Sri Lanka's economy, providing employment opportunities and contributing to the total Gross Domestic Product of the country. However, many SMEs underperform due to limited digital technology use. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated digital adoption, highlighting the potential for significant competitive advantages through digital transformation. This research aimed to identify key digitalisation aspects relevant to small and medium-scale construction firms and establish a mechanism for assessing the maturity of digitalisation by proposing a digitalisation maturity model tailored to SMEs operating within the Sri Lankan construction industry. The maturity model was derived based on the findings from a comprehensive literature review and a focus group discussion that was composed of ten construction professionals. The primary dimensions of the model include Client, Technology, Operations, Organisation and Culture. However, this manuscript presents a detailed study carried out for Client and Technology dimensions only. Within these two dimensions, nine sub-dimensions and 41 digital criteria were identified, which can be employed for the assessment of digital maturity within organisations.
Internet of things (IoT) enabled carbon emission monitoring in residential buildings: a bibliometric analysis
Authors:   Department of Building Economics, University of Moratuwa, Sri Lanka, Jayakodi J.A.D.K.S. , Mallawaarachchi B.H. , Yatawatta Y.J.M. ,   Department of Facilities Management, University of Moratuwa, Sri Lanka
Published: September 2024

Carbon emissions from residential buildings have drastically increased in the recent past because of lifestyle changes. Hence, there is a critical necessity to implement carbon reduction pathways, and among them, carbon emissions monitoring can be identified as one of the prerequisites for carbon reduction. Many researchers have attempted to deploy various technologies for this purpose, such as the Internet of Things (IoT), Cyber-Physical Systems (CPS), and electricity big data to name a few. This research aims to review the adaptability of IoT for carbon emissions monitoring in residential buildings through a bibliometric analysis of key literature. Accordingly, a Scopus-based systematic review was conducted to analyse the journal articles related to the IoT, carbon emissions monitoring and residential buildings and their intersection. The bibliometrics techniques were used for the analysis of the results of the systematic review. As the primary implication of this research, the bibliometric analysis outcomes significantly contribute to identifying the number of published journals, leading journal authors, and countries active in this field. Accordingly, the outcomes reveal that the number of published articles has consistently increased over the last ten years. Further, the 'Journal of Energies' had published the highest number of articles. Secondly, the proposed framework gives important insights into the intersection of IoT, carbon emissions monitoring and residential buildings including the different types of carbon emission from residential buildings and potential outcomes from IoT-based carbon emission monitoring platforms.
Lifecycle carbon emissions: adaptive reuse vs new buildings in Sri Lanka
Authors:   Department of Civil Engineering, University of Moratuwa, Sri Lanka, Prabodani M.K.M. , Ranasinghe S.S. ,   Department of Agricultural Engineering, University of Ruhuna, Sri Lanka, Halwathura R.U. ,   Department of Civil Engineering, University of Moratuwa, Sri Lanka
Published: September 2024

The building construction sector stands out as a significant contributor to carbon emissions (CE). Among the sustainable practices available to mitigate this impact, adaptive reuse of historic buildings (ARHB) emerges as a viable option. In tropical developing countries, there is no quantitative research on ARHB and CE to evaluate the effectiveness of the use of ARHB as a solution. This study addresses this gap by conducting a comparative analysis of lifecycle CE between ARHB and an envisioned new building with an identical building envelope. Notably, this is the pioneering case study of its kind in Sri Lanka. A historic building within Galle Dutch Fort serves as the chosen case study, repurposed as a homestay to align with current local trends. Results indicate that annual carbon emission from the ARHB is 37.35 kg.CO2/m2, while from the envisioned new building amounting to 48.64 kg.CO2/m2, showcasing the significantly reduced environmental impact of ARHBs. In both scenarios, operational energy accounted for the highest proportion of CE, at 73.8% and 62.3% respectively. Subsequently, material production emerged as the next critical stage for both cases. Consequently, this study concludes that ARHB presents a more environmentally friendly option than new building construction. Moreover, the research suggests a focus on operational and material production stages to diminish environmental impact further. Strategies such as altering user behaviour, implementing microclimatic approaches, and embracing circular economic principles are recommended to achieve this objective. This study underscores the potential for ARHB to contribute significantly to sustainability efforts within the building construction sector.
Navigating sustainability and digitalisation in the construction industry: a literature review
Authors:   Department of Building Economics, University of Moratuwa, Sri Lanka, Prasadinee W.K.R. , Hadiwattage C. , Ilangakoon I.W.M.A.D.
Published: September 2024

This critical literature review explores the intersection of sustainable practices and digitalisation within the construction industry. Though digitalisation offers promising avenues for addressing challenges faced by the construction industry, its impact on sustainability remains underexplored. Drawing from a comprehensive synthesis of the literature, this review identifies key challenges in traditional construction industry practices, examines the benefits and challenges of digitalisation, and assesses its implications for sustainability. However, the adoption of digitalisation in the construction industry faces hurdles such as legal ambiguities, financial constraints, and resistance to change. Moreover, its impact on sustainability spans economic, environmental, and social dimensions. While digitalisation offers cost savings, improved project delivery, and enhanced worker safety, it also raises concerns about electronic waste, energy consumption, and job displacement. A holistic understanding of sustainability is crucial in navigating these complexities, encompassing economic viability, environmental stewardship, and social equity. Integrating digital technologies in construction industry practices presents opportunities and challenges for advancing sustainability goals. Ultimately, embracing sustainable digitalisation in the construction industry is essential for fostering long-term resilience and competitiveness in the dynamic construction landscape.
‘Plan of action’ for organisational change: a case study of Indian public sector construction organisation
Authors:   Department of Civil Engineering, Visvesvarya National Institute of Technology, Nagpur, India, Shahu S.R. , Iyer A. , Tawalare A.G.
Published: September 2024

Recently, one of the Indian public sector construction organisations has adopted app-based work measurement and its billing system to reduce the cycle time in the “Procure to Pay” process. Though it could be a small technological change in the working process that has re-engineered the “As-is” processes, it changes the entire organisational dynamics thereby eliminating gaps in the system. Therefore, this paper provides insights into these change management practices in the public sector construction organisation in the context of implementing technological change in the work process. To develop the "Plan of Action," this study utilised a case study methodology. This ‘Plan of Action’ consists of the following strategies change initiative, formation of change management team, leadership support and involvement, research and benchmarking, stakeholder involvement and engagement, change resistance and persuasion, mandatory training integration, operational efficiency analysis and stabilisation phase. It is revealed that the organisation required commendable efforts in conceptualising, planning, and executing the change process along with special attention to enhancing leadership participation, increasing stakeholder engagement, and providing extensive instruction, training and support to all employees and stakeholders.
Smart contract applications for mitigating disputes in the construction industry
Authors:   Department of Building Economics, University of Moratuwa, Sri Lanka, Bandara R.M.O.H. , Abeynayake M.D.T.E. , Illeperuma I.E. , Eranga B.A.I.
Published: September 2024

Disputes frequently arise in construction projects due to the complexity of the processes and challenging environment, resulting in cost overruns, delays, wastage, and low productivity. Thus, the Construction Industry (CI) is enthusiastic about innovative dispute mitigation measures by incorporating digital technologies. Consequently, Smart Contracts (SCs) have emerged as a pioneering approach to digitise construction contracts and thereby mitigate construction disputes. Accordingly, this research aims to investigate the applications of SCs to mitigate disputes in the Sri Lankan CI. The research aim was approached through an explanatory mixed method. Initially, a questionnaire survey was carried out to collect quantitative data which was followed by qualitative expert interviews. Quantitative data were statistically analysed through Mean Weighted Average (MWA) and Relative Importance Index (RII) whereas qualitative data were analysed through content analysis. The study identified the root causes of construction disputes in the Sri Lankan context as poorly written contracts, poor preparation and approval of drawings, lack of communication and coordination, poor supervision and site management, and contain of contradictory and inaccurate information in the contract documents. The findings highlighted that SCs can significantly reduce construction disputes by replacing ambiguous processes with clear, automated processes. By linking payments to milestones, storing project data transparently, and potentially triggering actions based on safety or quality data, SCs streamline communication, ensure everyone plays by the agreed-upon rules, and thereby minimise disputes. Future researchers are suggested to explore the practical challenges and strategies for implementing SCs in the Sri Lankan CI.
Survival challenges faced by the small-scale building contractors in Sri Lanka
Authors:   Department of Life and Medical Sciences, University of Hertfordshire, United Kingdom, Nuwandhara R.M.K.K. , Perera A.S. ,   Liverpool John Moores University, United Kingdom, De Silva G.H.S.P. ,   Department of QS, SLIIT, Sri Lanka
Published: September 2024

The construction industry is a significant contributor to the socio-economic development of Sri Lanka, and small-scale contractors play a crucial role in this industry. However, their sustainability is a matter of concern. The vital contribution made by small-scale contractors in generating job opportunities and reducing poverty has been recognised in Sri Lanka and globally. The research study examines the significant challenges C7-C9 grade contractors face in surviving in the Sri Lankan construction industry. The study utilised a mixed-method approach. Stage one consists of, administering a questionnaire survey, distributed among C7 to C9 contractors and stage two consists of conducting a series of semi-structured interviews among five industry experts. The initial groundwork involved an extensive review of the existing literature, complemented by acquiring primary data. During the first stage, the study continued using thirty responses and to analyse the collected data, descriptive statistical tools such as percentage counts, weighted averages, etc used through a 5-point Likert Scale analysis. Among the key challenges that emerged, financial policies stand as a critical issue with higher governance. Semi-structured interviews were analysed using code-based content analysis. Among the solutions proposed, improving skills and efficiencies was a highly proposed solution to facing these challenges. This study will be useful for many struggling C7-C9 contractors in Sri Lanka to identify their least-performing areas in the trade and to improve their overall performance while nurturing the construction industry.
Taxonomy of circular economy terminologies
Authors:   School of Engineering, Design and Built Environment, Western Sydney University, Australia, Senaratne Sepani , Gamage Iresha , Jayakodi Shashini , Perera Srinath
Published: September 2024

The construction sector predominantly follows a linear economic model, which necessitates a shift towards embracing the Circular Economy (CE) principles. Even though several CE approaches have been introduced for the construction context, numerous barriers have hindered their implementation. Confusion of CE terminologies with a lack of awareness is identified as one of the main barriers to the successful implementation of CE in the construction industry. Hence, this research focuses on differentiating the CE terminologies based on their academic definitions to establish a consolidated and comprehensive understanding and thereby, aims to develop a taxonomy for CE terminologies for the construction industry. This research adopted qualitative comparative literature analysis research methodology and selected individualising comparison as a suitable comparison method. To carry out the comparison, the academic definitions from Oxford and Cambridge dictionaries were compared with the definitions from CE-related construction articles. Subsequently, the consolidated definitions were established for selected terminologies by differentiating their ideas. Consequently, the hierarchy of the terminologies was identified to develop a CE taxonomy. This research provides significant guidance for CE researchers for appropriate CE terminology usage in their research, while industry practitioners can gain a wider understanding of CE for its successful implementation in the industry.
Cesarean Section under General Anesthesia over 10 Years at Tertiary Care Center: A Descriptive Cross-sectional Study
Authors: Basnet Smriti , Prasad Lekhak Prabineshwor , Subedi Prabin , Lama Moktan Sushila
Published: September 2024

Introduction: The global surge in cesarean deliveries necessitates safe anesthetic practices to optimize outcomes. While the neuraxial block is the preferred method, specific conditions warrant general anesthesia. This study is aimed to determine the prevalence of cesarean sections under general anesthesia at a tertiary care center. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted on cesarean sections performed between April 14, 2013, and April 13, 2023, at a tertiary care center. Ethical approval was obtained from the Institutional Review Committee (Reference number: 20092023/01). Total sampling was done. Data for the past ten years were manually collected from hospital records using a self-structured proforma and analyzed using Microsoft Excel 2018 and IBM SPSS version 26. The point estimate and 95% confidence interval were calculated for the study. Results: In this study, there were 216 (2.98%) (95% CI: 2.59-3.38%) cesarean sections under general anesthesia in 10 years. Notably, among them, there were 103 (47.69%) primigravida, nullipara 130 (60.19%), 135 (62.50%) with no living children, and 161 (74.54%) without any past abortions. In most cases, 182 (84.26%) were emergency procedures and 34 (15.74%) were elective. Fetal bradycardia with distress was the primary indication observed in 121 (56.02%) cases, followed by 32 (14.81%) maternal requests. Additionally, twenty-one cases were found initially planned as cesarean sections under subarachnoid block but were converted to general anesthesia. The prevalence in this study was found within the recommended limits.Conclusions: The findings highlight that the majority of these procedures were emergency cases, predominantly due to fetal distress, with a notable proportion involving primigravida and nulliparous women.
Formes nouvelles tokhariennes B extraites des fragments de Berlin II. Formes du duel, formes du prétérit, formes nominales choisies
Authors: Itkin Ilya B.
Published: September 2024

The article continues the work of cataloging earlier unknown Tocharian B forms found in unpublished text fragments from the Berlin collection (“THT-fragments”), which was started in [Itkin 2022]. It includes the analysis of several dual forms (of different reliability), preterit forms, and some nominal forms that are of special interest as regards inflectional and word-formation morphology, correspondences with Tocharian A forms, and other linguistic features.
Variation of the labiovelar approximant and the voiced labialized velar fricative in Naukan Yupik
Authors: Budyanskaya Elena M. , Zhornik Daria O. , Kornev Timofey V.
Published: September 2024

This study reports an analysis of [w] and [ɣʷ] segments in Naukan Yupik that are variants of a single phoneme. The article presents a review of the existing literature on Naukan Yupik and other related languages as well as a primary analysis of modern audio data recorded during field trips on Naukan Yupik documentation in 2022–2023. This analysis deals with such acoustic characteristics as formant structure and frication of the segments [w] and [ɣʷ] as well as voiced velar fricatives [ɣ] and [v]. The results of the analysis confirm differences between [w] and [ɣʷ] that are observed perceptually and distinguish them from [ɣ] and [v]. Our data additionally show that [w] should be considered the main variant of the phoneme in question.
Sources and evolution of miocene-pleistocene alkaline magmatism in the north-east part of the arabian plate (data from Sr–Nd–Pb isotopic systematics and K–Ar geochronometry)
Authors: Chugaev А. V. , Parfenov A. V. , Lebedev V. А. , Chernyshev I. V. , Oyan V. , Özdemir Y. , Oyan E. , Gol'cman Ju. V. , Rassohina I. V. , Gareev B. I. , Batalin G. А. , Pavlidis C. B.
Published: September 2024

A geochronological and isotope-geochemical study of alkaline basalts from three areas of young magmatism within the northeastern part of the Arabian Plate (Southeastern Turkey), Batman, Kurtalan and Alemdağ, was carried out. The obtained isotope data have indicated that the volcanism in the studied region developed over 5 mln years from the end of Miocene to the mid of Pleistocene during four pulses separated by breaks in magmatic activity: 6.1-4.9 Ma (Batman area, hawaiites), ~3.0 Ma (Alemdağ plateau, phase I, basalts), 2.0-1.9 Ma (Alemdağ plateau, phase II, tephrites), and 1.5-1.3 Ma (Alemdağ plateau, phase III, basalts; Kurtalan area, basalts). A comparison of spatial-temporal regularities of magmatic activity evolution in the studied part of the Arabian Plate and within the largest basalt plateau of Arabian foreland, Karacadağ plateau, located to the west, was carried out. The results of Sr-Nd-Pb isotope-geochemical studies show that the development of young basalt volcanism within the northern part of the Arabian Plate was characterized at different time by participation of various mantle sources in magma generation under this region. Initial pulses of magmatic activity are associated with melting of Arabian subcontinental lithospheric mantle (SCLM). The processes of fractional crystallization combined with crustal assimilation (AFC) have played an important role in the petrogenesis of lavas as well. In the subsequent time, a deep mantle source (PREMA) with a depleted isotopic composition of Sr and Pb played a leading role in the formation of basaltic magmas of increased alkalinity. The melts generated by this source were mixed with the SCLM material in various proportions at different stages of magmatism with a limited participation of AFC processes in the petrogenesis of the rocks. It was concluded that young basalt volcanism of elevated alkalinity in the northeast of the Arabian Plate is not related to the collision of the Eurasian and Arabian plates genetically, but presumably manifested here as a result of the migration of the initial rift geodynamic set from the Red Sea basin to the north along Levantine and East Anatolian transform faults with associated convective wave flows in the lower part of mantle under this part of the Earth.
Stishovite – the variability of gehesis under earth’s conditions: physico-geochemical aspects
Authors: Litvin Yu. А. , Spivak A. V. , Kuzyura A. V.
Published: September 2024

Experimental data of studying the stishovite (SiO2) genesis under the Earth’s conditions are systemized. ThePT-diagram of SiO2state up to 350 GPa and 3200°C was drawn. The phase fields of quartz, coesite, stishvite, phase SiO2of CaCl2-type, seifertite (α-PbO2-type) and phase SiO2of pyrite-type were designated. The early accumulation of the Earth’s mass in the period of meteorite accretion was accompanied with impact-in-waves genesis and underground disposal of stishovite which was completely assimilated with the global magma ocean of pyrolite composition. Crystallization of the magma ocean has been completed with a stratification of the mantle with the seismic boundaries between upper mantle, transition zone and lower mantle. The fractional ultrabasic-basic evolution of the mantle magmas was accompanied by peritectic reactions of ringwoodite+akimotoite and bridgmanite with stishovite formation. These reactions are revealed in physical-chemical experiments at 20 and 26 GPa. These reactions in the diamond-parental carbonate-silicate-carbon melts provided formation of stishovite with its capturing into diamonds as paragenic inclusions. The stishovite genesis is also connected with the global mantle convection as at subduction of the lithospheric plates with silica to the layer D”, so at uplift of the superplumes from the layer D” up to the Earth’s crust. The impact-meteoritic genesis of stishovite is restarted with formation of the Earth’s crust.
Quartz diorites of the volkovskiy ore-bearing massif (middle Urals, Russia): U–PB age, Nd–Sr–Pb isotope systematics, geochemical features, petrogenetic and geodynamic implications
Authors: Anikina Е. V. , Kudryashov N. M. , Soloshenko N. G. , Rusin I. А. , Chervyakovskaya М. V.
Published: September 2024

The results of U–Pb age determination, Nd–Sr–Pb isotope systematics and geochemical study of quartz diorites associated with ore-bearing (Cu–Pd–Au–Ag) gabbro of the Volkovskiy massif localized within the Ural Platinum Belt, at its eastern border with Silurian-Devonian volcanogenic complexes of the Tagil megazone are presented. The age of quartz diorites by U–Pb (TIMS) age determination is 429±9 mln years, MSWD = 0.009. Sr–Nd–Pb isotope characteristics (ƐNd(T) = +5.5 ÷ +6.7; (87Sr/86Sr)t= 0.70382−0.70392;206Pb/204Pb = 18.38−18.57;207Pb/204Pb = 15.56−15.58;208Pb/204Pb = 38.14−38.30) indicate a juvenile source with a model age of 570−760 mln years. The obtained data do not go beyond the values typical for basalts of enzymatic island arcs. The geochemical features of the granitoids of the Volkovskiy massif (low REE concentration, differentiation of their spectrum (La/Yb = 8−14) with weak positive Eu-anomaly (Eu/Eu* = 0.9−1.4)) are consistent with the characteristics of melts obtained in water melting experiments for mafic rocks in equilibrium with amphibole-pyroxene restite. The anomalous strontium concentration (more than 1000 g/t) in quartz diorites is due to the high content of this element in the source. Such source could be the earliest rocks of the Ural Platinum Belt – olivine gabbro and surrounding metamorphic rocks. The same age of quartz diorites of the Volkovskiy massif and monzonitoids of the Kushvinskiy massif allows us to consider these rocks as a result of the mantle and crust melting converged in time at the final stage of the Tagil island-arc system formation.
Features of the humoral immune response when using protein immobilized on the surface of nano- and microparticles based on poly(lactic acid)
Authors: Sakhabeev R. G. , Polyakov D. S. , Sinitsyna E. S. , Korzhikov-Vlakh V. A. , Bagaeva I. O. , Korzhikova-Vlakh E. G. , Ses T. P. , Tereshina V. S. , Shavlovsky M. M.
Published: September 2024

The study is aimed at evaluating the influence of composition and size of micro- and nanoparticles (MPs and NPs) on the immunogenicity of protein antigen associated with them. For comparative analysis, MPs and NPs based on poly(lactic acid) (PLA) and block copolymer of poly(ethylene glycol) with poly(lactic acid) (PEG-b-PLA) were obtained. Recombinant human beta2-microglobulin fusion protein with superfolder green fluorescent protein (β2M-sfGFP) was used for covalent modification of all types of polymer particles. Immobilization of the model protein β2M-sfGFP was carried out on the surface of the particles through the reaction of activated esters with the amino groups of the protein. Immunization of mice using complex antigen (β2M-sfGFP protein immobilized on the surface of MPs and NPs of different compositions) was carried out in four steps. Immunogenicity was assessed by the level of specific antibodies to sfGFP using enzyme-linked immunoassay. The results showed a significant increase in antibody levels in the control groups, which were immunized with a mixture of model protein and particles of different nature and sizes, compared to the experimental groups, which were immunized with conjugates of the corresponding particles with model protein. In the experimental groups, the highest number of specific antibodies was detected in the case of immunization of mice with the conjugate of protein and PLA or PEG-b-PLA-based NPs. The introduction of PEG block into the PLA composition did not significantly affect the immunogenicity of the protein, while the particle size was of significant importance. PLA- or PEG-b-PLA-based NPs showed higher immunogenicity compared to MPs of the same compositions, which can be used for practical purposes to develop vaccines (NP-protein) or ” trapping systems” (MP-protein) that bind infiltrating viruses.
Upper Pliocene–Lower Pleistocene upper molasse Belorechensk Formation of Western Ciscaucasia in context of regional neotectonics and paleogeography
Authors: Trikhunkov Ya. I. , Bachmanov D. М. , Tesakov А. S. , Titov V. V. , Lomov V. S. , Sokolov S. А. , Latyshev А. V. , Simakova А. N. , Syromyatnikova Е. V. , Ҫelik H. , Shchelinsky V. Е. , Frolov P. D. , Shalaeva Е. А. , Nikolskaya P. P.
Published: September 2024

Molasses of foredeeps are important indicators of the newest orogenic uplifts, as well as the data source on climate and landscape changes. One of the fullest sections of Neogene–Quaternary deposits is studied in valleys of the Belaya, Pshekha, and Psekups Rivers at the junction of the Western and Northwestern Caucasus with Eastern Kuban and Western Kuban foredeeps. The formation of the deposits corresponds to the main evolution stages of the Great Caucasus orogen, as well as the foredeeps. Summary of extensive published and original tectonostratigraphic materials has shown that the lowland and then hilly relief in an axial zone of Western Caucasus existed since, at least, from the Middle Miocene. At the same time, the northern flank of the present-day orogen and the foredeeps were located at the sea level and were repeatedly flooded by the seas up to the Kuyalnikian (Piacenzian–Gelasian) time, and the Western Kuban Foredeep – even later. The main data on stratigraphy of the upper molasses and Pliocene–Quaternary tectonic movements of the region are based on facies analysis and bio- and magnetostratigraphic studies of the Upper Pliocene–Lower Pleistocene Belorechensk Formation. Its sedimentation started at the beginning of the Kuyalnikian as a result of an increase of the energy of mountain rivers due to the uplift of riverheads. It is stated that the minimum averaged rate of uplift of the Western Caucasus in the basin of the Belaya River is 0.8 mm/year over last 4 Ma with acceleration up to 1.7 mm/year from the beginning of the Calabrian. The Belorechensk Formation includes three subformations, which successively become coarser-clastic and correspond to the main stages of the accumulation of upper molasses in the Late Pliocene and Early Pleistocene during the intensification of uplifts and landscape-climate changes of Western Caucasus and Ciscaucasia.
High-potassium rocks of the Late Riphean Mara paleovolcano, Biryusinsky ledge, South of the Siberian Platform
Authors: Izokh А. E. , Letnikova Е. F. , Izbrodin I. А. , Ivanov А. V. , Shkolnik S. I. , Doroshkevich А. G.
Published: September 2024

The research was focused on the Mara–Kamenka–Uvat interfluve of the Biryusinsky ledge of the Siberian Platform, where more than half a century ago, during prospecting works for manganese, the Marа paleovolcano was identified. However, specific volcanogenic-sedimentary rocks were considered as a part of the Karagas sedimentary series of the Late Riphean. Our mineralogical and petrographic studies have allowed us to establish the wide distribution of high-potassium pyroclastics, ignimbrites, and trachybasalts, indicating a subaerial explosive volcanic nature of the Mara volcano. The age of high-potassium volcanism has been determined based on U–Th–Pb zircon dating as 640 Ma. Lu–Hf isotope systematics of zircon indicate a relation of these volcanic rocks with mantle-derived magmas. The composition and time of formation of the studied rocks do not allow us to correlate them, as previously thought, with sedimentary Late Riphean quartz and quartz-feldspathic sandstones of the Karagas sedimentary series and dolerites of the Nersa intrusive complex. The specific mineralogical and petrographic features of the studied rocks make them suitable as a regional stratigraphic mark.
New data on nannofossil and planktonic foraminiferal composition in the Lower Miocene Alkun formation, Ciscaucasia
Authors: Golovina L. А. , Bylinskaya М. Е. , Popov S. V. , Golovina Е. D.
Published: September 2024

Nannofossils and planktonic foraminifers derived from the Lower Miocene Alkun Formation in the central and western Ciscaucasia were studied in the following sections: the stratotype section on the Alkunka River, the Republic of Ingushetia; stratotype of the Caucasian regional stage on the Kuban River, Karachay-Cherkess Republic; Lower Miocene reference section on the Belaya River, Adygea; and in the sections of the Alkun Formation stratotype area on the Fiagdon and Mairamadag rivers, North Ossetia. Planktonic foraminifers in the Alkun Formation were studied for the first time. The available results made it possible to reveal the composition and structure of nannofossil and planktonic foraminiferal assemblages from the Alkun sediments in the Ciscaucasia, to refine their stratigraphic and correlation potential and to recognize bionomic conditions of the Alkun basin in the studied area. As a result of the nannoplankton investigation the Cyclicargolithus floridanus Beds were recognized in the Alkun Formation and, taking into account the occurrence of the zonal Triquetrorhabdulus carinatus along with Tr. milowii, they are correlated with the upper (Miocene) part of the Aquitanian Zone NN1. Planktonic foraminiferal data permitted to recognize the Streptochilus pristinum Beds.
Features of admission to the state civil service in new subjects of the Russian Federation
Authors: Presnyakov Mikhail V.
Published: September 2024

In 2022, a very significant event took place, including for jurisprudence: the Russian Federation included four new territories and four new constituent entities of the Russian Federation were formed. Currently, many of the most important tasks related to the formation of public authorities in these entities are being solved. In this sense, the adaptation of official relations existing in these territories to the Russian legal system is significant. Such tasks cannot be solved simultaneously, therefore, the current legislation provides for different transitional periods for “debugging” the legal regulation of public service institutions on the territory of new constituent entities of the Russian Federation. This article deals with the realization in the new territories of the right to enter the civil service, which is an important component of the constitutional right to participate in the management of the state. In particular, the author analyzes the transitional provisions that operate on the territory of these subjects, notes contradictions and inconsistencies with the current federal legislation. The article predicts problems that may occur after the transition period and makes proposals for their elimination.
Legal means of protection of creative labor as a traditional Russian spiritual and moral value
Authors: Chucha Sergey Yu.
Published: September 2024

In the article of legal means and instruments for the protection of creative work are considered among the traditional spiritual and moral values. Based on the analysis of the latest legislation, it is substantiated that traditional spiritual and moral values, preserved and strengthened by the state, cannot contradict the spiritual values of religions traditional for Russia, should be reflected in legal norms and, above all, constitutional ones in order to give them a sign of universality, and also be specified in industry principles and norms. In order to be protected and strengthened by the state, these moral guidelines, formed in the course of religious development, which have found their unique, original manifestation in the spiritual, historical and cultural development of the multinational people of Russia, must be normatively enshrined in domestic legislation, including the Constitution of the Russian Federation. Based on these criteria, among the values of creative labor, respect for the worker and social partnership are highlighted and studied.
Criminological assessment of the scale of drug consumption and drug trafficking
Authors: Solov’yev Vladislav S.
Published: September 2024

The article presents the results of an anonymous Internet survey of users of social networks on the relevance of the problem of drug consumption and trafficking in the modern world, on the ability of respondents to acquire drugs, on the frequency of respondents meeting with offers to purchase drugs in real life, on the Internet and on the Darknet.The study participants answered whether there are people who use drugs among their social circle, expressed their attitude towards them, spoke about the possibility of legalizing “soft” drugs (for example, marijuana) and assessed the potential dynamics of the number of users of these drugs if such a decision is made.The responses given by respondents in different territories were compared, a correlation was established between security threats and the level of crime associated with drug trafficking.
Customs control of goods moved as humanitarian aid
Authors: Agamagomedova Saniyat A.
Published: September 2024

The article examines the features of customs control of goods transported as humanitarian aid. Increased tension in international relations, man-made, military and other crises determine the increased importance of humanitarian assistance in modern interstate interaction. Customs control of goods transported as humanitarian aid is positioned as an area of customs control carried out for the purpose of promptly processing the cross-border movement of humanitarian goods with exemption from customs duties. Based on the analysis of the legal regulation of procedures for the provision of humanitarian assistance, the administrative-legal and financial-legal features of the considered area of customs control are highlighted, and a conclusion is made that it is classified as a non-financial component of customs control. Based on the identification of theoretical and practical problems of customs control of goods transported as humanitarian aid, ways to solve them are proposed, related to the theoretical and legal justification of the specifics of this area of customs control and its place in the customs control system as a whole, as well as the development of Administrative Regulations for Customs Control goods transported as humanitarian aid.
Tissue Factor and Its Cerebrospinal Fluid Protein Profiles in Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Zimmermann Milan , Fandrich Madeleine , Jakobi Meike , Röben Benjamin , Wurster Isabel , Lerche Stefanie , Schulte Claudia , Zimmermann Shahrzad , Deuschle Christian , Schneiderhan-Marra Nicole , Joos Thomas O. , Gasser Thomas , Brockmann Kathrin
Published: September 2024

Background:

Prior investigations have elucidated pathophysiological interactions involving blood coagulation and neurodegenerative diseases. These interactions pertain to age-related effects and a mild platelet antiaggregant function of exogenous α-Synuclein.

Objective:

Our study sought to explore whether cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) levels of tissue factor (TF), the initiator of the extrinsic pathway of hemostasis, differ between controls (CON) compared to patients with Parkinson’s disease (PD) and dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB), considering that these conditions represent a spectrum of α-Synuclein pathology. We further investigated whether TF levels are associated with longitudinal progression in PD.

Methods:

We examined CSF levels of TF in 479 PD patients, 67 patients diagnosed with DLB, and 16 CON in order to evaluate potential continuum patterns among DLB, PD, and CON. Of the 479 PD patients, 96 carried a GBA1 variant (PD GBA1), while the 383 non-carriers were classified as PD wildtype (PD WT). We considered both longitudinal clinical data as well as CSF measurements of common neurodegenerative markers (amyloid-β 1-42, h-Tau, p-Tau, NfL, α-Synuclein). Kaplan-Meier survival and Cox regression analysis stratified by TF tertile levels was conducted.

Results:

Higher CSF levels of TF were associated with an older age at examination in PD and a significant later onset of postural instability in PD GBA1. TF levels were lower in male vs. female PD. DLB GBA1 exhibited the lowest TF levels, followed by PD GBA1, with CON showing the highest levels.

Conclusions:

TF as representative of blood hemostasis could be an interesting CSF candidate to further explore in PD and DLB.
Impact of Entrepreneurship on Unemployment and Poverty Reduction: The Case of Bukavu in DR Congo
Authors: Karhamikire Paul Kadundu , Ngangura Christian Mwemezi , Nankafu Nicole-Adams
Published: September 2024

The Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) grapples with severe poverty and unemployment issues, necessitating a focus on factors that can alleviate both challenges. This study specifically examines the impact of entrepreneurship on poverty reduction and unemployment in Bukavu. Through a comprehensive literature review and data analysis using a linear regression on cross-sectional data, the research reveals a trend with individuals transition from employment to entrepreneurship, particularly after completing studies, leading to a decline in the unemployment rate since 2015. Entrepreneurs also exhibit lower poverty indicators compared to non-entrepreneurs. The study recommends implementing measures, such as tax relief and entrepreneurial education, to encourage entrepreneurship, thereby creating employment opportunities and addressing poverty and unemployment in Bukavu.
A Brief Insight into the Introduction of a New Tax Regime in India
Authors: Ojha Shalini , Agarwala Amal Kumar
Published: September 2024

Since the inception of a new regime for filing taxes, there has been a discourse among taxpayers. The old tax regime provides opportunities to save taxes while, building a portfolio for fulfilling their financial goals. After the introduction of the new tax regime with less exemptions and deductions, one is free to choose between any of the two regimes. This would depend on many factors but purely on the quantum of exemptions and deduction one hopes to avail. For individuals, with awareness about their financial condition for the year, choices are clear. Otherwise, it may end in a deadlock. A commentary on the tax regimes could be an added factor in the selection. However, due to unavailability of the acceptance rate for new tax regime, taxpayers are unable to gauge whether the new tax regime is favourable. Amidst this, the finance minister has made some vivid introductions to the new tax regime in the union budget of 2023 by increasing the tax rebate limit. This introduction is a valuable step for the tax system of India which has the potential to be advantageous for taxpayers. Hence, this research is conducted to understand the new tax regime and the role it can play for the welfare of taxpayers. This study also sheds some light on the factors which might influence the selection of the tax regime. The findings show that the new tax regime simplifies the decision structure available to the taxpayers by reducing complexity and increasing the ease of compliance. The acceptance of the new tax regime has also increased since the reforms introduced in the Union budget of 2023. Age Groups, Yearly Income and Number of investments are factors that influence the selection of the tax regime. It is also observed that the younger age groups are inclining towards the new tax regime. The collected data has been analysed using the Year over Year growth, Chi-Square test and One-way ANOVA test along with post hoc tests.
Analyzing Corporate Value with Clustered Models: Identifying Financial and Non-Financial Factors Over Time
Authors: Hasegawa Ryota , Kuramoto Kaoru , Kumagai Satoshi
Published: September 2024

The importance of non-financial capital in firm valuation has been increasing. Non-financial capital comprises intellectual, human, social, relational, natural, and manufactured capital. This study proposes a clustered corporate value model to identify financial and non-financial factors influencing firm value. We cluster a group of companies and build a principal component regression model for each cluster, using the Bayesian Information Criterion for evaluation, with financial and non-financial factors as explanatory variables. We also considered the time lag in the impact of financial and non-financial factors on corporate value. In other words, we consider the impact of financial and non-financial factors on corporate value over multiple years, not just a single year. We propose an algorithm that identifies clusters and constructs a regression model for each, optimizing the combination of cluster divisions and explanatory variables using adjusted R-squared as the evaluation criterion. The cluster-specific corporate value model shows higher explanatory power than the industry-specific cluster-based corporate value model for the electrical, chemical, food, construction, and service industries.
Do Board Size, Female Directors and Ownership Dispersion Influence Financial Performance of Cooperatives? An Analysis Using Upper Echelons Theory
Authors: Muhammad Kamaruzzaman , Ghani Erlane K. , Ilias Azleen , Ibrahim Mohd Adha , Jamil Nurul Nazlia , Anwar Nazratul Aina Mohamad , Razali Fazlida Mohd
Published: September 2024

This study employs the upper echelons theory to examine the factors that influence the financial performance of cooperatives in Malaysia. Specifically, three factors are selected in this study, namely board size, female directors, and ownership dispersion, in relation to the financial performance of the cooperatives in Malaysia. In this study, a content analysis was performed on 145 cooperatives’ annual reports. This study shows that the number of board members has no effect on the financial performance of the cooperatives, indicating that a small board with knowledgeable members can also outperform a larger board with less expertise. This study also shows that female directors do no impact on the financial performance of cooperatives. Finally, this study demonstrates that the disbursement of members in the cooperatives has no effect on their financial performance. The findings in this study provide a relevant perspective on the financial performance of cooperatives that can help regulators understand and provide proper guidance to the cooperatives. This study also provides empirical evidence on the relationship between board size, female directors, ownership dispersion, and the financial performance of the co-operatives, adding to the financial reporting literature.
Women In Detention : Pemenuhan Hak Kebutuhan Eksklusif Perempuan pada Lapas Kelas IIA Bogor
Authors: Leoni Puspitasari Jenitha , Subroto Mitro
Published: September 2024

Lembaga Pemasyarakatan sama seperti Lembaga pada umumnya yang mengedepankan fungsi pelayanan bagi warga binaan, masyarakat dan pemangku kepentingan lainnya. Lembaga pemasyarakatan juga wajib mengedepankan hak asasi yang dimiliki setiap individu di dalamnya Karena Warga Binaan Pemasyarakatan atau tahanan merupakan seorang yang direnggut kebebasannya, namun bukan berarti tidak dapat menerima hak seperti manusia lain pada umumnya yang hidup bebas di luar Lapas. Pelanggaran hukum dapat dilakukan oleh siapapun dan dimanapun tidak memandang, usia, status ekonomi, dan gender, begitupun perempuan dengan berbagai alasan atau faktor tertentu yang menyebabkan seseorang melakukan pelanggaran hukum. Tujuan penelitian ini adalah untuk mengetahui bagaimana kehidupan perempuan di dalam lapas, upaya apa saja yang diberikan Lembaga pemasyarakatan kelas IIA Bogor untuk dapat memenuhi hak kelompok rentan dalam hal ini Perempuan yang berkebutuhan eksklusif yang wajib diberikan hak nya dan juga aspek yang mempengaruhi mencakup hak eksklusif narapidana perempuan. Metode penelitian bersifat deskriptif dengan pendekatan kualitatif dengan berpacu pada syarat dan tata cara pelaksanaan hak warga binaan pemasyarakatan yang tertuang pada PP Nomor 32 tahun 1999