bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
PROMOTION INVESTMENT EVOLUTION OF CONSTRUCTION REAL ESTATE PROJECTS
Authors: Guerra Miguel Andrés Andrés , HIDALGO STEBAN , MIÑO FREDDY , YANOUCH CRISTIAN , CALAHORRANO STEVE , RODRIGUEZ GIOVANNA
Published: March 2024

The success of real estate projects is not only related to the quality of the product but also to the commercial strategy and understanding how to manage resources and distribute them properly such that the information arrives to the interested audience. The purpose of this study is to determine the evolution of the promotion investment for real estate projects located in Quito, Ecuador throughout the last 20 years. For this, researchers collected commercial and general variables for 339 real estate business plans for projects that were built between 2005 and 2021. The information was recorded in a matrix and then analyzed to identify correlations and trends between the variables. Projects were classified by their type of construction, size, and socioeconomic level, and the percentage of investment in advertising for each of them was identified. The paper shows the evolution of the investment distribution according to different types of advertising avenues and projects. Practitioners can use the results as a guide to develop promotion strategy in order to invest promotion resources in a real estate project and predict its commercial performance.
SIMULATION MODELING OF MULTIPLE PREEMPTIONS OF BARGES AND CRANES UNLOADING FILL FOR LAND RECLAMATION
Authors: Ioannou Photios G. , Likhitruangsilp Veerasak
Published: March 2024

In construction simulation modeling, preemption is the interruption of activities in progress and the reallocation of their resources to other activities when triggering events occur, such as when geologic conditions change, or equipment fails. Modeling activity preemption correctly, however, is not trivial and requires specialized modeling elements such as those added to the STROBOSCOPE simulation system. These new preemption STROBOSCOPE functions and statements are first described and then applied to an example project where barges bring fill material for land reclamation to a harbor that has two berths and two cranes. When two barges are at the berths, each barge is unloaded by one crane. When only one barge is available, it is unloaded by both cranes working together and the remainder of its unloading time is halved. When a new barge arrives at the empty berth, the two cranes switch back to unloading one barge each, and the remaining unloading time for the first barge is doubled. The unloading of each barge can switch between using one and two cranes multiple times, with its remaining time to finish unloading either cut in half or doubled each time. The multiple activity preemptions caused by the changes in the number of cranes unloading each barge and the required adjustments in the barge’s remaining time to unload illustrate the challenging nature of activity preemption and the new STROBOSCOPE modeling capabilities.
A CHECKLIST DEFINITION FOR ASSESSING MECHANICAL RISKS USING NTP 330 IN A REPAVEMENT CONSTRUCTION PROCESS
Authors: BUCHELI GARCIA JORGE ALEXANDER , Albuja Endara Ricardo Valentino , Zavala Fiallos Ramiro Francisco
Published: March 2024

In a construction project, such as a road repaving process, skilled and unskilled labor are the fundamental axis for the development of the project. Their intervention must be supervised by the probability of occurrence of occupational accidents due to the use of equipment, heavy machinery and tools required throughout the activities, which can have negative consequences on workers, manifested through temporary, permanent, and even fatal disabilities, and to contractors and employers, due to delays and economic losses in the project, in addition to possible sanctions by control agencies. Occupational hazards must be managed by a legal requirement in all countries. Hence, the need to identify, evaluate and propose risk control measures in all types of constructions. In this case, the study focuses on generating checklists to measure deficiency levels of mechanical hazards in the construction process of replacing flexible pavement with rigid concrete, according to the NTP 330 methodology, which is based on the application of the NTP 324 methodology of the National Institute of Safety and Health at Work (INSST) in Spain. These checklists will be the input for the assessment of mechanical risks by verifying the safety actions and conditions adopted in the construction project. Likewise, compliance with the requirements of these checklists will determine the basic requirements of the mechanical risk control process, prioritizing urgent prevention activities. Keywords: accident rate, risk probability, hazard, hazard level
ASSESSMENT OF SPATIAL DATA OBTAINED BY MEANS OF THE USE OF UNMANNED AERIAL VEHICLE (UAV)
Authors: González-Jaramillo Víctor , González-Bustán Antonio
Published: March 2024

At present, in industry or research, engineering projects demand continuous spatial data from the Earth's surface. Depending on the required level of detail, collecting such data through traditional methods like topographic surveying can be prohibitively expensive. Moreover, these methods often involve extended timeframes and challenges in accessing difficult terrains, such as steep slopes. The use of an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), commonly referred to as a drone, equipped with sensors like photographic cameras, offers a means of consistently acquiring very high spatial resolution data from the Earth's surface. The incorporation of Ground Control Points (GCPs) ensures the data 's spatial accuracy. Photogrammetric process like structure from motion (SfM), generate various spatial products, including orthophotos and point clouds. This research centers on the application of a fixed-wing UAV to survey a 120 ha area to generate spatial data. The study demonstrates the high precision of the derived spatial data, validated against ground true data, using a flight height of 100 m over the above ground with an 80% overlap. The results include the generation of an orthophoto, a Digital Terrain Model (DTM), and a Digital Surface Model (DSM), with both terrain models derived from the point cloud.
INELASTIC DISPLACEMENTS MACHINE-LEARNING-BASED ESTIMATIONS FOR THE RC-BUILDINGS SEISMIC DESIGN CONSIDERING SSI EFFECTS
Authors: Baquero Juan-Sebastian , Chafla Altamirano Gustavo
Published: March 2024

Over the past few decades, scientists have dedicated considerable attention to investigating the impact of soil-structure interaction (SSI) on buildings’ performance. It is now widely recognized that these interaction effects can either positively or negatively influence a building's response to seismic events. Regarding the seismic design of buildings following standard prescriptions and accounting for SSI effects, ASCE 7, for example, guides through the modification process of the design forces obeying the interacting soil-structure system (SSS) behavior in an oversimplified manner. Nevertheless, no recommendations are made for adequately estimating inelastic displacements (IDs) focused on the design process. In an effort to rectify these limitations, this study examines the inelastic displacement response of ductile RC buildings while incorporating the influence of SSI. In that sense, a database of 3D-model structures with varying in-plan and elevation geometries as well as different supporting soil characteristics were generated and later assessed using OpenSeesPy as the modeling and analysis engine. Nonlinear dynamic analyses were executed accounting for flexible-base and fixed-base conditions as per ASCE 41, and their inelastic displacements are used to generate estimation models. The Gradient Boosting Regression Tree (GBRT) technique from machine learning (ML) is used in accomplishing this aim. It was observed that the wave parameter σ, along with the flexible-to-fixed base design shear force ratio, V*, are enough to explain up to 90% of the variation in IDs in the estimation model.
DETERMINATION OF THE MATRIX SUCTION OF LOW-PLASTICITY SILTS AND ITS CORRELATION WITH THEIR COLLAPSE POTENTIAL
Authors: Albuja-Sánchez Jorge , Duque Jessica , Martin Lizmary , Morales Jonathan , Anaguano-Marcillo Mariela
Published: March 2024

Soils are usually in a partially saturated state, meaning that both air and water occupy their voids. This condition can affect the stability of structures because it is closely related to wetting deformation (collapse). A low-plasticity silt (ML) composed of 45% kaolin with a liquid limit of 36% and a plasticity index of 10% was used in this study. In this study, the soil suction matrix was determined using the filter paper method established in ASTM D5298, correlating it with the moisture content and percentage of deformation induced by wetting. It was concluded that, as the moisture content decreases, the suction and the percentage of deformation by wetting increase, since, for a moisture content of 9% the suction is 14901.6 kPa and the deformation is 0.58%, while for a moisture content of 21% the suction is 1028.1 kPa and the deformation is 0.07%. Thus, a change in the slope of the SWRC was evident starting at 9%, which indicates a greater effect of suction and deformation below this moisture content.
GEOTECHNICAL CHARACTERIZATION OF SOILS THROUGH IN-SITU TEST CORRELATIONS AND GEOTECHNICAL PARAMETERS
Authors: Cando Ana Beatriz , Jaramillo Oscar , Cando Wilson Oswaldo , Cando Camila Laura
Published: March 2024

This research reports on the study, analysis, and results of a new methodology for obtaining the geotechnical characterization of soils in the Tumbaco Valley. The methodology is based on obtaining correlations from in situ tests and geotechnical parameters characteristic of the soil in the Tumbaco Valley, Quito-Ecuador. Several soil samples were taken at depths ranging from 1m to 15m to determine the bearing capacity using standard penetration tests such as NSPT and N60SPT, as well as performing laboratory tests for grain size distribution, moisture content, and specific weight. A reproducible and reliable methodology for soil mechanics parameters consistent with the dynamic behavior of its morphology was obtained. However, if enough soil samples are not obtained to determine the bearing capacity through this method, an alternative approach will be conducted, aiming to achieve the same reliability and arrive at the same response through correlation. We can observe the same result through this alternative approach.
SOIL CHARACTERIZATION: INTEGRATING IN-SITU TEST, LABORATORY ANALYSIS, AND TERRAIN PARAMETERS
Authors: CANDO TIPAN WILSON OSWALDO , BUCHELI GARCIA JORGE ALEXANDER , Leon Torres Mario Gabriel , CANDO CAMILA
Published: March 2024

This research introduces an innovative methodology for characterizing geotechnical parameters of soils, crucial for designing foundations for various structures. Rather than relying on general correlations from geotechnical books, the primary goal is to obtain specific characteristic values tailored to the study area. The methodology establishes correlations between in-situ tests and laboratory tests to determine soil parameters in the Valley of the Chillos. The Valley of the Chillos is a geographical region in the southeastern part of Quito, Ecuador. It falls within the administrative zone of Los Chillos in the Metropolitan District of Quito. The valley is surrounded by the inactive Ilaló volcano to the north and the Pasochoa, Antisana, and Lomas de Puengasí mountains to the south, east, and west, respectively. To achieve the research objective, soil samples were collected using the Standard Penetration Test (SPT) at depths ranging from 1 to 15 meters, following the ASTM D-1586 standard. Additionally, undisturbed soil samples from the thin-walled Shelby tube were obtained in the field and subsequently tested in the laboratory. These tests covered aspects such as natural moisture content, granulometric analysis, Unified Soil Classification System, classification, liquid limit, plasticity index, specific gravity, void ratio, and degree of saturation. The results from both field and laboratory tests will be used to calculate the load capacity of foundations specifically for characteristic soils in the Los Chillos Valley, considering their classifications.
CORRELATION BETWEEN COMPOSITION OF MASONRY BLOCKS USING RECYCLED RUBBER AGGREGATES AND PROFITABILITY OF PRODUCTION LINE
Authors: Fajardo Jorge I. , Guerrero Xavier , Paltán César A.
Published: March 2024

A correlational study between the composition of masonry blocks with recycled rubber aggregates and the profitability of their production line was carried out. Masonry blocks were designed and manufactured with different contents of rubber aggregates from end-of-life tires. We started from a factorial design of experiments with response surface L4 (22). The factors considered were aggregate granulometry, water/cement ratio and rubber content. The outputs of the experiment were the ultimate compressive strength and the profitability of the production line (IRR/NPV). A model was defined that correlates the input factors with the defined responses. Through an ANOVA, the significant factors on the profitability of the production line in different production scenarios were determined. It was found that there is an inversely proportional relationship between the amount of rubber aggregate and the compressive strength. The maximum aggregate content that allows meeting the resistance requirements of the NTE INEN 3066 standard was 10% (p/p). On the other hand, from the economic-financial analysis it is concluded that the maximum economically profitable rubber content is 5% (p/p). These results make it possible to define the limits of profitability of a production line of masonry blocks that comply with current regulations.
CEMENT MORTARS WITH BOMBYX MORI SILK FIBERS WITH DIFFERENT TYPES OF SURFACE TREATMENTS
Authors: Sozoranga César , Balcázar Cristian , Aguirre Eduardo , Ordóñez Salazar Santiago
Published: March 2024

The incorporation of natural fibers in cement mortars is an important area of research and development within the construction industry, as it seeks sustainable and ecological alternatives to traditional fiber reinforcements. This paper investigated the effects of different treatments on “Bombyx mori” silk fibers on the mechanical strength and durability of cement mortars, at the same time their architectural possibilities were analyzed. The studied fibers were cut to 20 mm in length, then treated with liquid calcium hydroxide, linseed oil and natural rubber latex. Finally, they were placed in the cement matrix in layers and arranged lengthwise. The mechanical performance and durability of the material were studied through the physical properties of water absorption by immersion, the mechanical properties of compressive, flexural, and impact strength at 7, 14, and 28 days of curing were also studied. The study was complemented with a simulation of alkaline environment of cement using a solution based on sodium hydroxide, measuring the degree of accelerated degradability of the fibers through mass loss. Overall, the results demonstrated that the composite material with fibers treated with natural latex and linseed oil exhibited higher flexural, compressive and impact strength and lower water absorption.
STUDY OF LITERATURE REVIEW ON THE USE OF PLASTIC IN CONCRETE MIXES
Authors: Guerra Miguel Andrés Andrés , Carrión Estefanía , Cervantes Estefanía
Published: March 2024

Plastic waste poses significant environmental challenges due to its widespread use and long-lasting nature. In the search for sustainable construction solutions, this study presents a systematic review of international research spanning two decades on the integration of recycled plastics into concrete mixtures, either as aggregates or fibers. Applying strict inclusion and exclusion criteria, 97 of the 187 articles initially identified were analyzed in depth. Key findings indicate that the introduction of plastics can influence essential concrete properties such as density, compressive strength and thermal conductivity. The effectiveness of plastic integration largely depends on factors such as the type, size and shape of the plastic used. In particular, the research reveals that the use of plastic fibers can improve crack resistance, influenced by the size and type of fiber. Depending on the application, an optimal plastic replacement percentage is usually between 10% and 20%. This review highlights the potential of recycled plastics to increase the properties of concrete, offering an environmentally friendly route to reduce plastic waste and promote sustainable construction.
COMPRESSIVE AND BENDING STRENGTH OF CHAMBO ARTISANAL BRICKS WITH ADDITION OF RECYCLED GLASS POWDER
Authors: Hidalgo Diego Hernan , Dávalos Henry Francisco , Llamuca Deisy Paulina
Published: March 2024

This article describes the main findings obtained when implementing recycled glass powder as an ingredient in the production of artisanal bricks in the Chambo canton, with the aim of improving their mechanical properties. The characterization of the brick's raw material (soil and ash) was carried out, followed by the fabrication of bricks with the addition of glass powder (PV), using the artisanal procedure with only the modification of adding glass powder to the mixture. The results indicate that the soil used as the main raw material is classified, according to the SUCS methodology, as a well-graded sand with silt (SW-SM). Modified bricks with glass powder show up to 240% compressive strength and 220% flexural strength capability compared to traditional bricks when using 8% to 12% glass powder dosage in the mixture. Additionally, both traditional and modified bricks exhibit a water absorption percentage between 25% and 26%. The procedures, as well as the interpretation and contrast of the results, are based on the guidelines established by the Ecuadorian Institute of Standardization (INEN).
RISK PERCEPTION IN THE CONSTRUCTION INDUSTRY: A BIBLIOMETRIC REVIEW
Authors: Turkyilmaz Aynur Hurriyet , Polat Gul , Gurgun Asli Pelin
Published: March 2024

This study presents a bibliometric analysis of the existing literature on risk perception in the construction industry. The aims are to discover patterns, significant topics, and the progression of research on risk perception. The study includes academic publications, such as journal articles, conference papers, and book chapters. The data was acquired from articles indexed on Scopus. VOSviewer was utilized to construct a co-occurrence network using the bibliographic data acquired, and a Sankey diagram was formed to investigate publication trends. Four major study clusters were found, encompassing risk management, safety, construction workers, and prevention actions, all within the context of risk perception in construction research. The current rising research topics related to risk perception in construction are occupational and project safety, construction workers, and human resources. The outcomes of this study can provide comprehension of risk perception in construction and research direction by emphasizing the importance of integrating management, safety, workers, and prevention action perspectives while offering new areas for further exploration regarding risk perception in the construction industry.
SHEAR EXPERIMENTS ON STRAIGHT REINFORCED CONCRETE SLABS
Authors: Lantsoght Eva , Zarate Garnica Gabriela , Lu Jiandong , Yang Yuguang , Hendriks Max
Published: March 2024

As the existing bridge stock is ageing, assessment of existing bridges becomes increasingly important. In the Netherlands, the shear capacity of reinforced concrete slab bridges is found to be insufficient. In particular, the shear and punching shear capacity of reinforced concrete slab bridges subjected to concentrated loads from the design tandem or truck is subject to discussion, as the shear behavior is situated in between one-way and two-way shear. Currently, an experimental program is being conducted at Delft University of Technology to determine the shear capacity of straight and skewed reinforced concrete slabs under point loads near to the support. This paper presents the results of the 25 tests conducted on six straight slabs of 5m × 2.5 m × 0.3 m subjected to a proof load testing loading protocol. The failure load and modes of the slabs are described in detail. Reinforced concrete slabs under concentrated loads can fail in shear, punching, and flexure, as well as a combination of these failure modes. The results of the experiments are compared to strength predictions obtained by using current design models and current methods for assessment. These experiments demonstrated that the Dutch guidelines, which are based on previous slab experiments, are an improvement as compared to the Eurocode for the assessment of existing reinforced concrete slab bridges. Ultimately, this work provides recommendations for bridge engineers tasked to assess reinforced concrete skewed slab bridges.
PROBABILISTIC ANALYSIS OF FLEXURAL OVERSTRENGTH FACTOR FOR SEISMICALLY DESIGNED REINFORCED CONCRETE BEAMS AND COLUMNS
Authors: Zarate Andrea Natali , Tsz Lung David , Andrade Alexis Ivan , Castillo Tito Oswaldo
Published: March 2024

The study presented here aims to address some issues related to seismic design of structures, with special focus on the probabilistic modelling of reinforced concrete (RC) cross-sections capacity. It aims to validate the overstrength factors provided in Eurocode 8 for the design RC beams and columns. A statistical analysis is carried out to determine the uncertainty in the reinforcing steel properties. Uncertainties in concrete properties, geometry of cross-sections and mechanical model are also considered. Assessing the flexural overstrength of RC beams and columns designed according to Eurocode 8 involves ensuring that the structural members meet the capacity design specifications. This research studied 128 cross-sections of beams and columns with different geometry and reinforcement areas by performing Monte Carlo simulation. The code provisions are evaluated through a comparison with the simulation results. In particular, the analyses suggest using an overstrength factor of 1.5 for beams and columns with 95% probability of exceedance (or 1.3 with 50% probability of exceedance). Eurocode 8 provisions, adopting an overstrength factor of 1.3, does not seem conservative enough.
RAMMED EARTH CONSTRUCTION: A CIRCULAR SOLUTION FOR SUSTAINABLE BUILDING
Authors: Montalbano Giammarco , Santi Giovanni , Kholoud  Najem 
Published: March 2024

The building and construction sector is one of the most harmful industries to the environment, responsible for producing high levels of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, energy consumption, and waste. Rammed earth, a traditional building technology is deemed as a promising solution to tackle these challenges. In addition, the low level of skill required for rammed earth buildings paves the way for self-built activities. This paper presents the preliminary findings of an ongoing research study focused on the rammed earth construction technique. The primary objective is to assess its sustainability and circularity within the context of Europe and the Mediterranean. The methodology employed is based on an analysis of rammed earth techniques and a review of relevant regulations related to the selected context. The analysis includes case studies of contemporary European rammed earth buildings. They aim to illustrate possible design strategies that incorporate rammed earth alongside well-established construction technologies. These case studies also shed light on how the integration of various construction technologies introduces circularity variables into buildings, thereby influencing their overall sustainability. These variables are contingent upon the techniques, technologies, and performance characteristics of the selected building elements. As a result of this analysis, the paper initiates a discussion on the role that rammed earth constructions can play in the development of sustainable hybrid buildings.
ADVANTAGES AND BARRIERS FOR USE OF EXCAVATED SEDIMENTS
Authors: Žlender Bojan , Jelušič Primož
Published: March 2024

Soil excavation, including extraction from rivers, lakes, and marine sediments, can lead to a large surplus of clean or slightly contaminated excavated soil. All excavated soil is treated as waste until it is reused. Therefore, the reuse of excavated soil is an important part of sustainable construction, which also helps reduce carbon emissions and lower the cost of earthworks. The reuse of excavated soil is generally viewed positively, but there is a lack of uniform definition of construction waste and a lack of guidance and understanding of reuse. This article discusses the use of excavated soil and provides advice for good practice in the future, considering regulatory, economic, environmental, and implementation aspects. Regulatory aspects refer to the complex legislation and the lack of guidelines for reusing excavated soil. Economic aspects relate to integrated planning, including contracts for construction projects, and the interest of those involved in construction. The environmental aspect includes the impact of reused material on the soil. Logistical obstacles are discussed, which include both spatial and temporal problems due to difficulties in moving excavated soil, storing it, and coordinating supply and demand. Barriers to performing the work are related to the lack of standardization of tests to demonstrate that the geochemical and geotechnical quality of the excavated soil is suitable for reuse. Examples of the reuse of surface, river, lake, and marine soils and possible solutions to overcome the barriers to their use contributed to a proposal for increased use of excavated soils and sediments.
VIDEO TOURS OF SUSTAINABLE BUILDING PROJECTS ON CAMPUS: A PRACTICAL APPROACH TO TEACHING SUSTAINABILITY
Authors: Valdes-Vasquez Rodolfo , Olbina Svetlana , Clevenger Caroline M. , Ozbek Mehmet E.
Published: March 2024

Sustainable design and construction have become increasingly important in today's world due to the need for environmental protection and resource conservation. This paper promotes sustainable principles and learning objectives that support related skills by describing a pedagogical tool that uses the built environment as a learning model. Specifically, the paper describes a video assignment used in classes at two Universities focused on teaching sustainability, where teams of graduate and undergraduate students select building projects and create video tours that highlight the sustainable strategies implemented. The assignment requires selecting a building with sustainable features such as energy, water, indoor air quality, materials, site, or social sustainability. The videos are posted on YouTube, making them accessible to a broader audience. This assignment allows students to explore and identify sustainability principles by creating video tours that educate the campus community about sustainable design and construction. By highlighting the sustainable strategies used in the built environment, the assignment aims to raise awareness about the presence and importance of sustainable design and construction, as well as encourage the adoption of these principles in future construction projects. In addition to describing this assignment as a pedagogical tool to improve the teaching of sustainability concepts, this paper presents a rubric to assess what is being taught (sustainable building features) and how it is being communicated.
ANALYSIS OF THE PHYSICAL-MECHANICAL PROPERTIES OF CONCRETE USING RECYCLED PVC AND AGGREGATES
Authors: Jaramillo de León Oscar Patricio , Cando Tipán Wilson Oswaldo , Quel Guerón Andrés Fernando , Flores David John David
Published: March 2024

Using recycled concrete has gained significant attention as a sustainable solution to reduce the environmental impact of construction waste. However, the mechanical properties of recycled concrete require thorough research to ensure its structural reliability. In this study, the objective was to determine the strength of concrete with PVC. A widely used material in most civil works is PVC, which is used in pipes and accessories for the project's hydro sanitary system. When the work is finished, a lot of PVC waste is discarded and is not recycled. In this research, the physical-mechanical properties of concrete are evaluated, using a dosage where the coarse aggregate is replaced by recycled and crushed PVC, in percentages ranging from 3% to 9%, mainly analyzing its behavior against compression and flexion at the age of 28 days, and obtaining its elastic modulus. The results obtained allow us to determine if the PVC added to the concrete mix gives us favorable results (greater compression and bending strength) or unfavorable results (higher costs, concrete slump, etc.)
STRENGTH DEVELOPMENT IN CLAY-STABILIZED BRICKS WITH CEMENT AND RICE BY-PRODUCTS
Authors: Camacho Adriana , Mena María , Albuja-Sánchez Jorge , Cruz Dana , Anaguano-Marcillo Mariela
Published: March 2024

Bricks, traditionally used in the construction sector, use high energy and generate significant emissions of CO2 in their production process. As a result, as a lower-impact and low-cost alternative, this study analyzed different types of mixtures of soil, cement, rice husk, and rice husk ash to decrease the amount of cement, which was substituted gradually with rice husk and rice husk ash, to stabilize and improve the characteristics of clay, and to compare the effectiveness of earth stabilized bricks respect to traditional bricks. The research was carried out in three phases which were soil-cement, soil-cement-rice husk ash, and soil-cement-rice husk ash-rice husk, from which we concluded the best mixture consists in low-plasticity clay soil (CL), 14% Portland cement, 6% rice husk ash, and 4% rice husk, which in the simple compressive strength after 7 days of curing is not affected by the decrease in cement but increases by 0.41 MPa, which in addition shows better results in simple compression, absorption, and flexure tests than traditional bricks.
The Right of Secession in Burma's First Constitution
Authors: Hauret Philip
Published: March 2024

An agreement between Burmese nationalists and the British government in early 1947 set forth the basic steps of an “independence roadmap” designed to not only take Burma to full independence via a democratic process, but to unify Burma Proper and the Frontier areas under a governmental system the Frontier peoples would help to craft. However, the semi-federal constitution adopted in 1947, which granted two minorities a right of secession, failed in its role of achieving the second of these lofty objectives, for by the early 1960’s several of the major frontier peoples were in revolt, while those still loyal to the government sought to fundamentally reform it. This paper explores the role of the constitutional right of secession in the creation of the Union of Burma, why only two of the major minorities received it and how the right became a political liability for both. It also explores how it was used to justify the military’s permanent entry into the political arena in 1962, not with an intent to stabilize it temporarily as in 1958, but to replace it entirely with one more to its liking.
Anti-parasitic activity and computational studies on a novel labdane diterpene from the roots of Vachellia nilotica
Authors: Al-Tannak Naser F. , Anyam John V. , Santali Eman Y. , Gray Alexander I. , Ibeji Collins U. , Igoli John O.
Published: March 2024

A new labdane diterpene characterized as 18α-O-trans-p-feruloyl-15-methyl-8(17)-labdanoate has been isolated from the roots of Vachellia nilotica. Also isolated were p-coumaric acid, ferulic acid, stearic acid, lupeol, and a mixture of β-sitosterol and stigmasterol. The compounds were obtained after a series of column chromatography on silica gel, and their structures were elucidated using NMR and LC-MS analyses. The new diterpene showed good anti-parasitic activity with an IC50 of 0.0177 µM against Trypanosoma brucei and 0.0154 µM against Leishmania major using an Alamar Blue assay. The compound also displayed very good inhibitory activity against Leishmania major compared to Trypanosoma brucei rhodesiense with a binding energy of −10.5 and −7.8 kcal/mol, respectively. Density functional theory analysis showed that the studied compound has low LUMO–HOMO energy, signifying a high chemical reactivity with the ability to donate electrons to electron-accepting species.
Density functional theory to study stopping power of proton in water, lung, bladder, and intestine
Authors: Jasim Wejdan A. , Kadhim Rashid O.
Published: March 2024

Stopping power, range, and time of proton in water, lung, bladder, and intestinal human tissues are calculated using density functional theory and Beth’s relativistic equation in range of proton energy (0.01–1,000 MeV). The experimental data extracted from SRIM-2013 program were used to proton to the same human tissues applied in the MATLAB-2021 program, and the mean ionization potential of water and the studied tissues is calculated using Gaussian 09W program. A good agreement has been found between our calculations for stopping power, range, and time of protons in the studied human body tissues and SRIM-2013 program calculations.
Recording, Sharing and Linking Micromorphological Data: A Two-Pillar Database System
Authors: Russo Sarah Lo , Brönnimann David , Pümpin Christine , Ismail-Meyer Kristin , Rentzel Philippe , Gautschy Rita , Wimmer Johannes , Devos Yannick , Nys Karin
Published: March 2024

In archaeological soil and sediment micromorphology, research is grounded in observations made with petrographic microscopes. These observations are recorded using standardised terms and microphotographs. The two-pillar database system allows a user-friendly recording of these observations with I-GEOARCHrec and the possibility to link these data to field pictures and microphotographs publicly available in I-GEOARCHive.
Seismic Performance of Prefabricated Reinforced Concrete Structure Beam Joints Based on the Internet of Things
Authors: Xiao Junsheng , Jiang Suo , Li Yang
Published: March 2024

Because buildings are easily damaged and collapsed by earthquake disasters, a study on the seismic performance of prefabricated reinforced concrete beam joints based on the Internet of Things has been proposed. Side joints with the largest bottom column section and the largest axial compression ratio of 100 m high prefabricated reinforced concrete structure were selected for the test. The test loading scheme is completed through the test loading device and the test loading system. An logging while drilling wave is selected as the test-simulated seismic wave, and the column axial force, hysteresis curve, displacement point, strain force, and crack position are taken as the main measurement contents. To do this, the DH-3816 data collection was completed based on the Internet of Things and the test data were recorded by DH-3816 data acquisition system. The results show that the proposed method consumes much energy and has high ductility under a low cycle reciprocating load. The bearing capacity in yield state, limit state, and failure state is better, and the degradation trend of strength and stiffness is gentler. Fuzzy optimization is used to test the viability of the proposed mechanism and the results are promising.
Application of PROTACs in target identification and validation
Authors: Liu Yang , Liang Jing , Zhu Rui , Yang Yueying , Wang Yali , Wei Wenyi , Li Hua , Chen Lixia
Published: March 2024

Proteolysis targeting chimeras (PROTACs), as a novel therapeutic drug model, has received widespread attention from academia and the pharmaceutical industry. PROTAC technology has led researchers to focus on developing chemical biology tool properties due to the unique operating mechanism and protein dynamic regulatory properties. In recent years the rapid development of PROTAC technology has gradually made PROTACs an essential tool for target identification and validation. To further promote the application of PROTAC tools in drug discovery and basic medical science research, this review distinguished target identification and validation concepts. Furthermore, research progress in PROTAC technology was summarized.
Patrick Curry, Art and Enchantment: How Wonder Works
Authors: Sautter Cia
Published: March 2024

Patrick Curry, Art and Enchantment: How Wonder Works (Oxford and New York: Routledge, 2023), 254 pp., $35.96 (pbk), ISBN 9781032404677
Jean Chamel and Yael Dansac (eds.), Relating with More-than-Humans: Interbeing Rituality in a Living World
Authors: McKanan Dan
Published: March 2024

Jean Chamel and Yael Dansac (eds.), Relating with More-than-Humans: Interbeing Rituality in a Living World (London: Palgrave Macmillan, 2022), xiv + 254pp., $129.99 (cloth), ISBN 978-3-031-10293-6
Religious Interpretation and the Pandemics in Indonesia: Whither the Pesantren Kiai Develop Meaning of Tawakkal
Authors: Thobroni Ahmad Yusam , Ridwan Auliya
Published: March 2024

This research examines the impact of Covid-19 on global communities and the subsequent implementation of health protocols such as social distancing, mask-wearing, and handwashing to mitigate health risks, particularly virus-related fatalities. Despite these measures, certain communities display reluctance in adhering to health protocols, leading to a surge in Covid-19 cases. Notably, in Indonesia, Islamic education's role in promoting resistance to Covid-19 health protocols through interpretations of Quranic verses on tawakkal (reliance on God's will) remains understudied. Focusing on selected kiai from Sidoarjo district, East Java, this study delves into the various Quranic interpretations regarding pandemics and their evolution. The research identifies two distinct groups of kiai: one advocating complete reliance on tawakkal, relegating human efforts in combating the virus, and another emphasizing proactive measures before turning to tawakkal. The paper argues that these interpretative differences stem from the kiai's ability to use principles of interpreting al-Qur`ān. Understanding these perspectives highlights the interplay between religious beliefs and public health practices during the pandemic, emphasizing the need for engaging Islamic leaders in promoting effective health protocols for societal well-being.
Synergizing Islamic Religious Education and Scientific Learning in the 21st Century: A Systematic Review of Literature
Authors: Nasucha Muhammad Raihan , Khozin Khozin , Thoifah I’anatut
Published: March 2024

In the 21st century, the evolution of educational methodologies has significantly transformed Islamic Religious Education (IRE). This era demands students to acquire diverse competencies essential for their future, positioning IRE as crucial in mitigating the adverse effects of rapidly advancing science. To successfully navigate 21st-century Islamic education, an integration of religious and scientific knowledge is imperative. This approach aims to provide students with a comprehensive understanding and foster good values to counteract immoral behaviors. This research focuses on evaluating integrated learning concepts in implementing the 4C Skills (Critical thinking, Communication, Collaboration, and Creativity) among students. A qualitative approach, specifically a systematic literature review, was employed. The review involved meticulous selection and screening based on predetermined inclusion and exclusion criteria. The findings reveal that integrating IRE and science can manifest in learning evaluations. Implementing an integrated learning concept in evaluations positively influences student learning activities, spanning cognitive, affective, and psychomotor aspects, aided by the incorporation of 4C Skills in 21st-century learning environments.
A Century of Nadhlatul Ulama’s Contribution to Modernizing Islamic Education in Indonesia
Authors: Munawir  , Novita Almi
Published: March 2024

Nadhlatul Ulama (NU) has long prioritized the issue of education, recognizing its importance as the key to unlocking a better future. Holding onto religious values and harnessing the advancements in knowledge and technology, NU consistently designs transformations within its educational institutions to meet the challenges of the future. This study aims to explore NU's role and significant contributions in the effort to modernize Islamic education and delve into its one-century existence as an entity contributing to the development of education in Indonesia. The Library Research method is employed in this study to gather and analyze various data sources, including books, journals, and other literature, which are then synthesized into a scholarly article. The research findings indicate that NU has endeavored to implement educational modernization through the establishment of thousands of educational institutions, especially pesantren, across Indonesia. The integration of modern education with digital learning tools is one concrete effort undertaken by NU to adapt to changing times. In addition to providing religious education, NU is committed to nurturing a generation that possesses a grasp of knowledge and technology, enabling them to compete in the era of globalization.
Fostering Moderate Islamic Values: Implementing a Design Model for Counter-Radicalization in Higher Education
Authors: Nadlir Nadlir , Mualifah Ilun
Published: March 2024

This study delves into the construction of a counter-radicalization model within Islamic higher education, specifically at Sunan Ampel State Islamic University in Surabaya. The imperative to curb the spread of radicalism within campus communities highlights the significance of cultivating a comprehensive grasp of moderate Islam among students. Central to this research is the examination of the Islamic Studies course within the Primary School Teacher Education Program. Employing a research and development methodology, the study employs pre-post test designs, including control groups, to discern the effectiveness of the proposed model. Notably, the course design departs from conventional non-religious subjects, incorporating both direct and indirect instructional approaches. Post-treatment results reveal a noteworthy enhancement in students' exhibition of moderate Islamic attitudes, with performance levels escalating from an initial 60.71% to a promising 70.00%. Statistical scrutiny underscores the model's efficacy, affirming its potency in fostering moderation-based insights among students. Ultimately, this investigation underscores the model's superiority in enhancing students' comprehension in contrast to conventional pedagogical strategies.
The Emergence of Student-Writers in Surakarta: Combating Religious Radicalism Among Youth in the Digital Age
Authors: Munawar Zaid , Ishom Muhammad
Published: March 2024

The rise of religious radicalism among young people in the Soloraya region has been greatly influenced by digital technology. Efforts to address this issue have emerged from student-writers in Surakarta. This research aims to examine the emergence of these student-writers in Surakarta, their responses to religious radicalism, the discussions on Islam within their community, and their methods of outreach in the digital era. Netnography was never applied to gather and examine data from online sources like websites and social media platforms. The findings reveal that student-writers started their involvement in 2017 through the establishment of the Center for the Study and Development of Islamic Boarding Schools (PKPPN) at IAIN Surakarta. Their discussions focus on unearthing the values of wisdom and Islamic moderation within the pesantren tradition, emphasizing principles like moderation, tolerance, equality, anti-violence, and patriotism. They have initiated the Literacy of Refined and Tolerant Islam (LISaN) program to promote a refined and tolerant form of Islam in daily life, both offline and online. This initiative aims to counteract the surge of religious radicalism among young people connected to the digital world.
Navigating Remedial Dhikr and Surah Memorization: A Quest for Improvement or Procedural Challenges?
Authors: Surawardi  , Hamdi Saibatul , Maulidi Ahmad Riyadh
Published: March 2024

This study explores a new phenomenon in the implementation of remedial practices that differ from the common remedial approaches. In this context, remedial activities involve reciting dhikr (remembrance of God) and memorizing short surahs (chapters) during the learning process. The research aims to describe the implementation of this remedial approach and the underlying reasons for its adoption at MA Sabilal Muhtadin. The research employs a qualitative approach using phenomenological methods. The study subjects include two teachers and five relevant informants. The research findings reveal several key points. First, the remedial activities involve two teachers but do not appear to represent the appropriate instruments for enhancing the quality of students' learning. Students are only given additional tasks, such as memorization, without receiving guidance related to unfinished learning indicators. Second, the implementation of these remedial activities arises from teachers' perceptions of limited time allocation, prompting them to take the initiative to carry out remedial practices that can be completed quickly. Teachers also believe that remedial activities can compensate for students' inadequate grades. These findings indicate that teachers possess limited knowledge about the correct procedures for remedial practices. Third, the execution of remedial activities does not align with the proper remedial procedures, resulting in minimal impact on students' improved understanding and, in some cases, an additional learning burden. The implications of this research include providing recommendations to the relevant madrasah to improve their remedial programs. These recommendations encompass practical steps, such as organizing training sessions for madrasah teachers to enhance their understanding of the correct remedial procedures.
Piety and Tolerance in Thai Society: Exploring Multicultural Coexistence at Phatnawitya School
Authors: Nuruzzaman Muhammad Adib , Ridwan Auliya , Safriani Afida , Ha’sa Wan Anita
Published: March 2024

Thailand's society, rich in ethnic and religious diversity, underscores the importance of piety and tolerance in maintaining social harmony. This study examines the practices of instilling the values of piety and tolerance at Phatnawitya School, through their integration into the curriculum and school activities. It also explores the challenges faced in creating an environment that values diversity in both the school and the broader multicultural community. Utilizing a qualitative approach and case study methodology, this research gathers both primary and secondary data. The findings indicate that Islamic education at Phatnawitya School plays a crucial role in nurturing piety and tolerance among students through the Islamic religious curriculum, extracurricular activities, and student empowerment programs. This educational approach has successfully fostered an environment conducive to student social development. The conclusion of this study highlights the role of Islamic education as an effective tool in shaping students with harmonious and tolerant characters, as well as contributing to the development of a multicultural society.