A Literature Review of Succession Planning and Talent Development for Underrepresented Groups in the Construction Industry

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This study examines the current state of research on succession planning, talent development, and diversity inclusion within the construction industry, with particular attention to underrepresented groups. The review synthesizes scholarly and industry literature that highlights the strategic importance of succession planning and talent development for organizational sustainability, leadership continuity, and workforce competitiveness. Existing studies emphasize the need to integrate diversity and inclusion initiatives with business and human resource strategies to strengthen leadership pipelines and organizational performance. However, the literature reveals a significant gap in research addressing the development, advancement, and succession planning of minority and underrepresented populations within construction organizations. Findings indicate that succession planning practices in the construction sector remain inconsistent and lack widely accepted standards, while labor shortages and an aging workforce continue to challenge industry sustainability. The review further explores diversity management through the lens of dynamic capabilities theory, identifying mentoring, networking, internship, and career-track succession programs as critical mechanisms for improving workforce diversity and inclusion. The chapter concludes that construction organizations must adopt systematic, diversity-focused succession planning frameworks and establish measurable diversity indicators to evaluate progress toward equitable leadership development. Additional research is needed to better understand and address barriers affecting the advancement of underrepresented groups in the construction industry.

Retrospective Bench-Scale Screening of Six Phosphate Concentrates for Wet-Process Phosphoric Acid Production

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Variability in phosphate-concentrate chemistry can affect sulfuric acid demand, phosphorus recovery, calcium sulfate formation, and solid–liquid separation during wet-process phosphoric acid (WPA) production. This study presents a retrospective, quality-controlled reanalysis of a historical bench-scale campaign comprising six coded phosphate concentrates (PQH-001 to PQH-006). Each concentrate was represented by one complete WPA bench test; accordingly, comparisons are descriptive rather than inferential. Feed P₂O₅ ranged from 27.59 to 30.55 wt%, whereas the minor-elements ratio (MER = 100 × (Al₂O₃ + Fe₂O₃ + MgO)/P₂O₅) ranged from 7.12 to 16.83%. The surviving records documented 98 wt% sulfuric acid, phosphoric acid, and gypsum streams, filtration calculations, and duplicate hydrochloric acid attack tests, but did not preserve several operating variables required for mechanistic attribution. Observed P₂O₅ recovery ranged from 94.68 to 97.99%. The highest-grade feed, PQH-004 (30.55 wt% P₂O₅), showed the lowest recovery (94.68%) and the highest residual P₂O₅ in dry gypsum (1.083 wt%), demonstrating that feed grade alone did not rank performance in this campaign. PQH-005 showed the most favorable observed combination of metrics: 97.99% recovery, 0.405 wt% P₂O₅ in dry gypsum, a filtration index of 185.3 kg h⁻¹ m⁻², and sulfuric-acid use of 2.603 t H₂SO₄/t feed P₂O₅, approximately 1% above the CaO-only stoichiometric benchmark. A stoichiometric QA/QC audit identified the reported PQH-003 acid addition as chemically inconsistent, and its filtration result was also non-defensible because a required dry-cake term was missing. The results support a staged, multi-parameter qualification approach based on feed chemistry, stoichiometric consistency, phosphorus deportment, and filtration behavior, followed by replicated modern bench and pilot validation before industrial scale-up.

The Therapeutic Promise of Citrus limon: A Review of its In-Vitro Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Effects

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Citrus plants, members of the Family Rutaceae have long been utilized in Traditional Indian medicine for the treatment of scurvy, Rheumatism , stomach ailments, diarrhea ,and  liver disorders. In addition to their therapeutic applications, Citrus plants are well known for their potent antioxidant properties, underscoring their significance in both Ethnomedicine and modern pharmacological research. Citrus essential oils are fascinating because they sit at the intersection of botany, chemistry and human health. the Rutaceae family, with its rich diversity has given us plants whose oils are aromatic and also pharmacologically active.  What makes citrus oils particularly valuables is their complex  Phytochemical composition-mainly Terpenes {like limonene, Aldehydes ,Alcohols, Esters, Flavonoids } these mixture of compounds are known for both the Organoleptic properties { Flavour, fragrance} and the bioactivities like Antibacterial, anticancer, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant properties.  The study has an objective to investigate the  composition of phytochemicals in citrus limon leaf powder and evaluate their potential pharmacological activities  majorly antioxidant  and anti-inflammatory activity by evaluating their chemical constituents and carrying out testing procedures in various applications, the review highlights the importance of citrus limon leaves as a sustainable source of natural bioactive compounds. Citrus Genus are the most cultivated fruit crops ,rich in carotenoids,  Flavonoids , and many other bioactive compounds of nutritional and nutraceutical values.

A Correlational Study of Peer Social Support and Student Engagement Among Junior High School Students

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Student engagement is widely regarded as a key determinant of successful learning, yet preliminary observations at a state Islamic junior high school (Madrasah Tsanawiyah) in South Sumatra indicated that students’ affective, behavioral, and cognitive engagement had not yet developed optimally. One contextual factor thought to contribute to this pattern is peer social support, given that friendship relationships become increasingly important during early adolescence for meeting the psychological needs of belonging and relatedness. This study aimed to empirically examine the relationship between peer social support and student engagement among seventh- and eighth-grade students. A quantitative correlational design was employed, involving 205 students drawn from a population of 500 through simple random sampling based on the Isaac and Michael table at a 95% confidence level. Data were collected using two five-point Likert scales: a Student Engagement Scale developed from the affective, behavioral, and cognitive engagement dimensions proposed by Lam et al. (2014), and a Peer Social Support Scale based on the appraisal, tangible, belonging, and self-esteem support dimensions proposed by Cohen and Wills (as cited in Schonfeld, 1991). Data were analyzed using simple linear regression with SPSS version 27. The results revealed a positive and highly significant relationship between peer social support and student engagement (r = 0.329; R Square = 0.108; p = 0.000), with peer support accounting for 10.8% of the variance in engagement. These findings indicate that greater peer social support is associated with higher student engagement, although most of the variance in engagement is explained by factors beyond peer support alone.

The Application of a Problem-Based Learning Model Using The Experimental Method on The Learning Outcomes and Scientific Reasoning Skills of Elementary School Students in Science Education

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Science learning in elementary schools requires students to understand concepts through observation, investigation, and reasoning processes. However, students’ learning outcomes and inference skills are still relatively low because learning activities are often dominated by teacher explanations and have not fully involved students in scientific inquiry activities. This study aims to analyze the effect of the Discovery Learning model assisted by Live Worksheet on students’ learning outcomes and inference skills in science learning on the topic of changes in states of matter.

This study employed a quantitative approach with a quasi-experimental method using a Nonequivalent Control Group Design. The research subjects were fourth-grade students of SD Negeri Antirogo 01 and SD Negeri Antirogo 04, Jember Regency, consisting of 62 students. The experimental class received treatment through Discovery Learning assisted by Live Worksheet, while the control class received conventional learning. Data collection techniques used learning outcome tests and inference skill instruments. Data analysis was performed through prerequisite tests and hypothesis testing using inferential statistics.

The results showed that the Discovery Learning model assisted by Live Worksheet had a significant effect on students’ learning outcomes and inference skills. The learning process encouraged students to actively observe, collect information, process data, verify findings, and formulate conclusions based on evidence. The integration of interactive digital worksheets strengthened students’ involvement and supported meaningful learning experiences. Therefore, Discovery Learning assisted by Live Worksheet can be an effective alternative strategy to improve cognitive achievement and scientific thinking skills among elementary school students.

Transition From Free Bags to Eco-Friendly Alternatives: Economics, Greenwashing and Consumer Behavior in Veracruz, Mexico

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The replacement of free plastic bags with alternatives marketed as eco-friendly has transformed the economic and environmental relationships between businesses and consumers; however, charging for bags does not necessarily imply an effective reduction in their consumption and can encourage greenwashing strategies when environmental claims lack verifiable support. The objective of this research was to analyze the economic and environmental implications of changing from free bags to paid bags with an eco-label in businesses in Veracruz–Boca del Río. A descriptive-exploratory study was conducted through direct observation in 16 businesses in the Veracruz–Boca del Río metropolitan area, Veracruz, Mexico, during January and February 2024. The type of material, price, dimensions, delivery conditions, and observed consumer behavior were recorded. The information was systematized through a qualitative-interpretive analysis. Significant differences were identified in prices and marketing methods, noting that conventional bags ranged in price from $1.00 to $17.50 MXN, while those labeled as eco-friendly or reusable ranged from $3.00 to $25.00 MXN. Replacing free bags with paid alternatives eliminated an operating cost and generated a new potential revenue stream. Furthermore, commercial practices based on environmental attributes were observed without sufficient information on reuse or environmental performance. It is concluded that the analyzed transition presents a relevant economic dimension and characteristics consistent with greenwashing; therefore, the environmental effectiveness of these policies should be evaluated using verifiable indicators of reduced consumption and increased bag reuse.

Experimental Study of Cyclotron-Related Electromagnetic Waves and Their Interaction with Electronic Circuits

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Electromagnetic fields generated by systems involving charged-particle motion are important in accelerator physics, microwave engineering, and electromagnetic compatibility (EMC). A cyclotron accelerates charged particles by the coordinated action of a magnetic field and a radio-frequency (RF) electric field, while accelerated charges and time-varying fields provide a general physical basis for electromagnetic radiation (Lawrence & Livingston, 1932; Wiedemann, 2015). The present study investigates, experimentally, how microwave electromagnetic fields interact with electronic circuits and uses a magnetron-based laboratory source as an accessible experimental model for phenomena related to charged-particle electromagnetics. The apparatus consisted of a high-voltage power-supply/transformer unit, high-voltage capacitor, microwave magnetron, electrical connecting leads, and a metallic enclosure lined internally with aluminium. The electromagnetic response of a mobile phone, digital camera, calculator, radio, and lamp was observed. At an initial source-to-device separation of approximately 30 cm, temporary functional disturbances were observed, and the disturbances generally became more pronounced when the devices were moved closer to the source. Inside the aluminium-lined enclosure, the response was spatially non-uniform: some positions produced stronger disturbances than others. This behaviour is physically consistent with reflection from the conducting enclosure and interference between incident and reflected microwave fields, producing spatial maxima and minima. The mobile phone showed screen instability and temporary touch-response disturbance at some positions, while the radio, calculator, digital camera, and lamp also exhibited abnormal responses. The study interprets these observations through electromagnetic coupling, induced voltage/current, frequency-dependent susceptibility, and spatial field redistribution. Because calibrated measurements of field strength, power density, and exact operating frequency were not performed, the results are reported as qualitative evidence of electromagnetic susceptibility rather than as calibrated failure thresholds. The work provides an experimentally accessible bridge between accelerator-physics concepts, microwave generation, and EMC and offers a basis for future quantitative measurements.

Effects of Varied Nitrogen Fertilization Rates on Yield and Growth parameters of Hybrid Maize under agro-climatic conditions of Nangarhar, Afghanistan

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Nitrogen is one of the most essential nutrients influencing the growth, development, and productivity of maize (Zea mays L.). This study was conducted to evaluate the effects of different nitrogen fertilization rates on the growth and yield performance of hybrid maize under the agro-climatic conditions of Nangarhar, Afghanistan. The experimental treatments consisted of four nitrogen fertilization rates; 0, 130, 160 kg and 190 kg N ha⁻¹, Nitrogen fertilizer was applied in form of Urea (46%N)   in  three split  application ¼ dose at sowing, ½ at knee high stage and ¼ at tasseling stage. The experiment was conducted as randomized complete block design (RCBD). The results showed that the application of 190 kg N ha⁻¹, produced significantly higher values than the other treatments for plant height (244 cm), stem diameter (9.92 cm), number of leaves per plant (15.83), cob length (22 cm), number of grain per cob (455), grain weight per cob (133.17 g), 1000-grain weight (300 g), biological yield (808 g), fresh cob yield (8.33 kg), fresh net grain yield per cob (153.17 g).  The lowest values were recorded under the control treatment (0 kg N ha⁻¹) across all plant growth and yield parameters.

Therefore, this article recommends 190 kg N ha⁻¹ for farmers in the region and in similar climatic regions to achieve good maize growth and high yields.

Beyond Digitalization: Understanding Taxpayer Adaptation, Compliance Costs, and Voluntary Compliance in Indonesia’s Coretax Reform

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Indonesia’s implementation of the Core Tax Administration System (Coretax) represents a major shift toward integrated digital tax administration. This study examines how taxpayers and tax professionals adapt to Coretax, how the transition reshapes compliance costs, and how these experiences relate to voluntary tax compliance. A qualitative case study approach was employed involving 100 participants from Jakarta, Bandung, Surabaya, and Malang, including corporate taxpayers, tax and accounting staff, tax consultants, tax practitioners, academics, and tax administration officials. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews and analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis. The findings reveal that Coretax implementation is experienced not merely as technological change, but as an administrative transformation requiring procedural relearning, internal workflow adjustment, cross-functional coordination, and the development of new administrative capabilities. Six dimensions of compliance costs emerged: learning, time, monetary, organizational, technological, and psychological costs. These burdens were most pronounced during the early transition period, although some declined as users developed familiarity and administrative routines. The findings further show that digitalization alone does not automatically strengthen voluntary compliance. Participants associated willingness to comply more closely with procedural clarity, system reliability, accessible support, and trust in tax administration. The study contributes to digital tax administration literature by integrating taxpayer adaptation, administrative burden, compliance costs, and voluntary compliance within a single qualitative framework. Practically, it highlights the importance of user-centered implementation strategies that reduce transition burdens while strengthening taxpayers’ confidence in digital tax administration.

Secondary Aluminum Dross and Salt Slag Treatment: A Critical Review of Integrated Value Recovery, Risk Control, And Industrial Readiness

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Secondary aluminum dross and salt slag are heterogeneous secondary resources whose entrained metal, alumina-bearing phases, aluminum nitride (AlN), chlorides, fluorides, and fine particles create coupled recovery and safety constraints. This structured critical narrative review maps 106 publications from 2020 to 2026 and evaluates physical, thermal, aqueous, and product-oriented routes without claiming systematic review or PRISMA compliance. Conservative evidence coding identified one industrial campaign (Class A), one pilot study (Class B), no continuous integrated Class C study, 86 laboratory studies on real dross (Class D), five modeling or proof-of-concept studies (Class E), and 13 supporting reviews or contextual sources. Selected studies reported metallic aluminum recovery above 92% and up to approximately 98%, chloride removal above 92%, and AlN conversion of 92.45–99.03%; these results are not directly comparable because of differences in feed assays, particle size, residence time, and system boundaries. A metal-first sequence is therefore conditionally preferred when the net value of recovered metal justifies the operation and when removal reduces the hydrogen inventory of the wet circuit. Stoichiometrically, 1 kg AlN can generate 0.415 kg NH₃ (0.597 m³ at 25 °C and 1 atm), while 1 kg metallic Al can generate 0.112 kg H₂ (1.360 m³) under complete reaction. Washing, controlled hydrolysis, salt crystallization, gas capture, and mineral conversion must consequently be designed as one integrated system. Laboratory production of alumina, spinel, refractories, adsorbents, or cementitious materials demonstrates conversion, not circularity, unless product specifications, durability, leaching stability, multi-cycle recycle, controlled purges, and harmonized life-cycle and techno-economic boundaries are verified. The review provides route-specific readiness ratings, quantitative design bases, and objective go/no-go gates for industrial development.