bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Energy Performance of High-Rise Residential Buildings Using Fly Ash Cenosphere as Partial Replacement of Fine Aggregate in Mortar
Authors: Beddu Salmia , Basri Nur Amalina Nadiah , Mohd Kamal Nur Liyana , Mohamad Daud , Itam Zarina , Sivakumar N. , Ahmad Zailani Warid Wazien
Published: July 2024

Energy consumption in residential buildings soared enormously during the pandemic. To construct highly efficient residence, materials are one of factors that need to be considered due to their impact of climate change, power consumption and operational cost. It was found that power plants produced various types of waste products that can be utilized in many applications. For instance, Cenosphere produced from power plants could promote thermal properties of mortar brick to a certain extent. The aim of this study is to evaluate the effects of Cenosphere as partial sand replacement on thermal properties of mortar and buildings’ energy efficiency at different percentages (0%, 5%, 10%, 15% and 20%). Both thermal conductivity and specific heat capacity were detected by using Fox 50 instrumentation while energy efficiency was determined by using Autodesk Revit and Green Building Studio (GBS) software. The findings of thermal properties show that the replacement of sand with 20% Cenosphere as partial sand replacement have significantly reduces thermal conductivity while increasing the specific heat capacity of mortar. This study revealed that the k value of mortar bricks have reduced as low as 0.62 W/m.K and as high as 932 J/kg.K for specific heat capacity due to incorporation of Cenosphere and mixtures at 20%. On the other hand, the EUI of 5% Cenosphere has reduced 2.13 kWh/m2 or 1.4% lower than control mix. The energy saving measure largely influenced by the composition of Cenosphere as compared to the buildings’ orientations.
Performance Evaluation of Bottom Ash as Aggregate Replacement in Conventional Roller Compacted Concrete (RCC): An Experimental Study
Authors: Mohamad Daud , Beddu Salmia , Mohd Kamal Nur Liyana , Basri Nur Amalina Nadiah , Mohd Noordin Nur Fakhriah , Meena  , Karim Seleman , Sivakumar N.
Published: July 2024

The escalating demand for construction materials, coupled with the depletion of natural resources such as sand, necessitates environmentally conscious alternatives in concrete production. This study investigates the viability of utilizing bottom ash as an eco-friendly substitute for natural sand in roller compacted concrete (RCC). The focus is on evaluating workability and mechanical properties, examining bottom ash replacements at 0%, 20%, 25%, and 30% for fine aggregate. The research employs a comprehensive methodology, assessing workability and mechanical strength, encompassing compressive, split tensile, and flexural strengths across various concrete formulations. Comparative analyses with conventional concrete provide conclusive insights. Significantly, the study consistently highlights the superiority of RCC specimens featuring a 25% bottom ash replacement, exhibiting the highest strength values. This establishes the 25% replacement ratio as optimal for achieving robust roller-compacted concrete. Despite a slight reduction in workability with increasing bottom ash replacement, it remains within acceptable limits for practical applications. Comparative analyses between bottom ash RCC and conventional RCC underscore the superior mechanical attributes of the former, suggesting its potential as a sustainable alternative in concrete construction. By substituting natural sand with bottom ash, this research addresses environmental concerns related to the depletion of sand reserves. It actively contributes to sustainable practices within the concrete industry, demonstrating the viability of bottom ash as a substitute for natural sand in roller compacted concrete production. In conclusion, the study advocates for environmentally friendly practices and offers a practical solution to mitigate the ecological impact of sand resource depletion in the realm of concrete construction. The findings emphasize that the optimum percentage of bottom ash for compressive strength, split tensile strength, and flexural strength tests is within the range of 0% to 12%.
Design and development of a manual groundnut planter for smallholder farmers
Authors: Karunyaa T. , Dhayaneswaran P. , Siva Shanker A.
Published: July 2024

This article presents the design and development of a manual groundnut planter, specifically tailored for smallholder farmers cultivating less than two hectares of land. The planter serves as an intermediate technology between hand tools and tractor-drawn multi-row planters, addressing the financial constraints faced by a significant portion of the farming population. The planter’s design focuses on minimizing drudgery by eliminating continuous bending and standing up, ultimately improving efficiency and reducing time wastage. Key considerations during the design phase include affordability, ease of construction using locally available materials, and low technological complexity, requiring minimal training for operation and maintenance. Operational functionality involves a single-row tiller drawn type planter, utilizing a feed-in disc roller principle. Seeds are poured into the hopper, picked up by the metering plate, and introduced into the chute. The furrow opener continuously opens the soil, and the seeds fall into the furrow, simultaneously closed by the leveller. The planter achieves a continuous planting at a 30 cm intra-row spacing. The article further details the description of the groundnut planter, highlighting its components such as the handle, seed hopper, furrow opener, seed discharge tube, main body (frame), and metering roller housing. The planter’s power is derived from the rotation of the wheel, and motion is transmitted through the shaft to the metering unit. The methodology is outlined, including a flowchart illustrating the design process and the use of AutoCAD software for the 2D design. Mechanical factors considered for the planter design include uniformity of seed depth placement, distribution along rows, transverse displacement, and soil cover. Design considerations prioritize the ease of fabrication, operator safety, simplicity for small-scale farmers, and the use of locally available materials. The viability and nature of the seed, including orientation and moisture content, are also taken into account. The article concludes with a discussion on the collection of required materials, including the seed box, seed metering disc, seed transmission hose, and main frame. The presented manual groundnut planter aims to enhance the planting process for smallholder farmers, offering an affordable and efficient solution to improve agricultural practices.
Gauss Principle of Least Compulsion for Relative Motion Dynamics and Differential Equations of Motion
Authors: ZHANG Yi , XIA Junling
Published: July 2024

This paper focuses on Gauss principle of least compulsion for relative motion dynamics and derives differential equations of motion from it. Firstly, starting from the dynamic equation of the relative motion of particles, we give the Gauss principle of relative motion dynamics. By constructing a compulsion function of relative motion, we prove that at any instant, its real motion minimizes the compulsion function under Gaussian variation, compared with the possible motions with the same configuration and velocity but different accelerations. Secondly, the formula of acceleration energy and the formula of compulsion function for relative motion are derived because the carried body is rigid and moving in a plane. Thirdly, the Gauss principle we obtained is expressed as Appell, Lagrange, and Nielsen forms in generalized coordinates. Utilizing Gauss principle, the dynamical equations of relative motion are established. Finally, two relative motion examples also verify the results' correctness.
Demonstration of Epstein-Barr Virus by In Situ Hybridization in
Papillary Thyroid Carcinomas Developing on Background of Hashimoto’s
Thyroiditis
Authors: Karaarslan Serap , Kasap Esin , İpek Fatma Nur , Akyıldız Mahir
Published: July 2024

Aim This study aimed to demonstrate the role of Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV)
in papillary thyroid carcinomas (PTC) developing on the background of
Hashimotoʼs thyroiditis (HT).

Methods The presence of EBV in tumoral tissue, lymphocytes, and
peritumoral normal thyroid tissue was investigated using the in situ
hybridization method in paraffin blocks. The subtypes of PTC, tumor diameter,
TNM stage, multifocality, invasion of thyroid capsule, perineural invasion, and
muscular tissue invasion were identified and compared according to EBV
involvement.

Results Eighty-one patients with HT diagnosis, with 93.8% (n=76) female
and 6.2% (n=5) male, were included in the study. Papillary microcarcinoma was
the pathological diagnosis in 24.2% (n=15) of the cases. EBV was identified in
58.06% (n=36) of the tumor cells nuclei, 58.06% (n=36) in the tumor cell
cytoplasm, 16.12% (n=10) in tumor infiltrative lymphocytes, and 53.2% (n=33) in
normal parenchymal follicle epithelial cells (NPFEC). In the T2 stage, the rate
of EBV nuclear positivity in patients was significantly higher (p=0.034). The
classic variant of papillary carcinoma was accompanied by a significantly higher
rate of EBV-negative NPFEC (67.6%, p=0.049). In multifocal tumors, EBV
positivity was found to be significantly higher in lymphocytes in the
surrounding tissues (58.3%, p=0.034).

Conclusion A significant increase in EBV positivity in the surrounding
tissue lymphocytes was observed in multifocal PTC developing on a background of
HT. This suggests a possible association between HT and EBV.
Round-robin scheduling protocol-based stabilization for discrete-time Markov jumping neural networks
Authors: Gao Zeming
Published: July 2024

This paper focuses on the stabilization problem of discrete-time Markov jumping neural networks (DMJNNs) under communication constraints between the actuators and the remote controller. To reduce the communication burden, a round-robin scheduling protocol is introduced to allocate the right to a single actuator to exclusively use the communication channel at a given time while ensuring that multiple nodes can take turns to occupy the channel for signal transmission. Two criteria for stochastic analysis of the closed-loop network model are presented based on different assumptions of the activation functions. Then, numerically tractable design methods for the required controller gains are developed. Finally, the three-mode DMJNN model is used as an example to illustrate the complementarity and effectiveness of the presented analysis results and design methods.
Glial expression of a steroidogenic enzyme underlies natural variation in hitchhiking behavior
Authors: Yang Heeseung , Lee Daehan , Kim Heekyeong , Cook Daniel E. , Paik Young-Ki , Andersen Erik C. , Lee Junho
Published: July 2024

Phoresy is an interspecies interaction that facilitates spatial dispersal by attaching to a more mobile species. Hitchhiking species have evolved specific traits for physical contact and successful phoresy, but the regulatory mechanisms involved in such traits and their evolution are largely unexplored. The nematode
Caenorhabditis elegans
displays a hitchhiking behavior known as nictation during its stress-induced developmental stage. Dauer-specific nictation behavior has an important role in natural
C. elegans
populations, which experience boom-and-bust population dynamics. In this study, we investigated the nictation behavior of 137 wild
C. elegans
strains sampled throughout the world. We identified species-wide natural variation in nictation and performed a genome-wide association mapping. We show that the variants in the promoter of
nta-1
, encoding a putative steroidogenic enzyme, underlie differences in nictation. This difference is due to the changes in
nta-1
expression in glial cells, which implies that glial steroid metabolism regulates phoretic behavior. Population genetic analysis and geographic distribution patterns suggest that balancing selection maintained two
nta-1
haplotypes that existed in ancestral
C. elegans
populations. Our findings contribute to further understanding of the molecular mechanism of species interaction and the maintenance of genetic diversity within natural populations.
For the love of acronyms: An analysis of terminology and acronyms used in AAI research 2013–2023
Authors: Green Freya L.L. , Dahlman Mikaela L. , Lomness Arielle , Binfet John-Tyler
Published: July 2024

The involvement of animals to assist or facilitate activities, education, or therapy has become increasingly popular. As we recognize animals’ roles in ameliorating well-being and educational outcomes, researchers and programmers are developing a variety of animal-assisted programs. This diversification has seen the adoption of a plethora of terms and acronyms. Many researchers have pointed out this over-abundance of terms and their inconsistent use, arguing that this creates confusion within the field. The aims of this article were threefold: (1) To identify commonly used terms in animal-assisted intervention (AAI) research; (2) to document their use by frequency; and (3) discuss the benefits and obstacles of the abundance of terms and acronyms in the field. A search of peer-reviewed articles published in English from 2013 to 2023 was conducted across four databases: PsycInfo, Education Source, ERIC, and Scopus to collate articles related to human-animal interactions (HAIs). Records were de-duplicated in Covidence and screened at title/abstract level by two independent reviewers for relevance to AAIs. The resulting articles (
N
= 1934) were subsequently coded to track terminology. A total of 1414 distinct terms were identified, the majority of which (77.8%,
n
= 1100) were used only once between 2013 and 2023. Only 48 terms (3.4%) were used in the literature more than 10 times. Analysis also provided insight into frequently used terms, the most prevalent of which were “animal-assisted therapy” (8.70%, used 376 times), “animal-assisted interventions” (7.45%, used 322 times), and “therapy dog” (5.06%, used 219 times). Trends across 10 years reveal that specific terms have increased (e.g., “animal-assisted intervention”) or decreased (e.g., “hippotherapy”) in popularity but that the average number of terms used per article remains stable. Despite calls from HAI researchers to reduce redundant terms and improve the accuracy and consistency in the language used, there remains a surplus of terms in the field. This holds implications for AAI researchers, programmers, and individuals gaining interest in AAIs.
Animal-assisted interventions in a farm setting: Integrating global perspectives, social work, and ecological approaches for overall welfare
Authors: Spett Dana , West Abigail , Fava Zoe , Lavoie Bonnie , Rodgers-Rivera Zoraida
Published: July 2024

The focus of the article is the integration of global perspectives, social work, and ecological approaches in animal-assisted interventions in a farm setting, presenting a model that addresses animal, human, and environmental welfare. The authors use a literature review and case scenario illustrating this model that suggests that welfare can be achieved through the simultaneous consideration of the following realms: Global initiatives of One Health and United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, the Five Domains of Animal Welfare, social work theory and practice, and regenerative agriculture. Future research should include the practice of this model in a fashion that allows collecting and studying the outcomes for animals, humans, and the environment involved.
Holographic vacuum energy regularization and corrected entropy of de Sitter space
Authors: Jalalzadeh S , Moradpour H , Tebyanian H
Published: July 2024

We propose that the spectrum of the surface area of the apparent horizon (AH) of de Sitter (dS) spacetime leads to corrected temperature and entropy of the dS spacetime, offering new insights into its thermodynamic properties. This is done by employing the spectrum of the AH radius, acquired from the Wheeler–DeWitt (WDW) equation, together with the Stefan–Boltzmann law, the time-energy uncertainty relation, and the unified first law of thermodynamics.
Implementing active learning in a teaching–learning sequence on rolling motion for mechanical engineers
Authors: Carli Marta
Published: July 2024

In this work, we describe a teaching–learning sequence (TLS) on rolling motion, designed and implemented within a Physics 1 course for Mechanical Engineers. The TLS was grounded in Physics Education Research findings and employed active learning strategies, particularly simulation-based exercises that included both conceptual questions and quantitative tasks. We detail and reflect on the development process of the TLS, focussing in particular on the alignment between the identified learning goals and the proposed instructional activities. We present data on students’ attainment of these learning goals, utilizing a post-instruction conceptual survey and an analysis of students’ performance in the final exam. Our research aims to contribute to the implementation of research-based, active learning sequences in large-enrollment contexts, specifically in those courses where both conceptual understanding and formal problem solving are valued.
Non-ultralocal classical r-matrix structure for 1+1 field analogue of elliptic Calogero–Moser model
Authors: Zotov Andrei
Published: July 2024

We consider 1+1 field generalization of the elliptic Calogero–Moser model. It is shown that the Lax connection satisfies the classical non-ultralocal r-matrix structure of Maillet type. Next, we consider 1+1 field analogue of the spin Calogero–Moser model and its multipole (or multispin) extension. Finally, we discuss the field analogue of the classical IRF-Vertex correspondence, which relates utralocal and non-ultralocal r-matrix structures.
Hitting probabilities for fast stochastic search*
Authors: Linn Samantha , Lawley Sean D
Published: July 2024

Many physical phenomena are modeled as stochastic searchers looking for targets. In these models, the probability that a searcher finds a particular target, its so-called hitting probability, is often of considerable interest. In this work we determine hitting probabilities for stochastic search processes conditioned on being faster than a random short time. Such times have been used to model stochastic resetting or stochastic inactivation. These results apply to any search process, diffusive or otherwise, whose unconditional short-time behavior can be adequately approximated, which we characterize for broad classes of stochastic search. We illustrate these results in several examples and show that the conditional hitting probabilities depend predominantly on the relative geodesic lengths between the initial position of the searcher and the targets. Finally, we apply these results to a canonical evidence accumulation model for decision making.
Assessment of traffic noise pollution in Arau, Perlis
Authors: Noor Satirah Idayu Mat , Hasan Masitah , Mokhtar Zulfakar , Ibrahim Naimah
Published: July 2024

Traffic noise pollution has become an important factor in the growth of society. The noise from a motor vehicle can cause severe damage to human health and reduce labour productivity. The study was conducted in December 2020 in Arau, Perlis. The data collected of traffic composition, volume, traffic flow, traffic noise level (Leq
) and traffic speed were analyzed using Microsoft Excel to elucidate the pattern of roadside noise generated by the vehicle’s movement during peak hours. From the observation, the noise level for both studied areas exceeds DOE guidelines due to increased traffic volume and speed. Traffic volume for both studied areas was increased during morning peak hour, especially in school session. Another factor may contribute to noise level are road condition, wind speed and vehicle speed. Driving a car at a higher speed pass through a yellow line or poor road condition contribute to produce high level noise, especially for heavy vehicles. Furthermore, the correlation in SPSS found that traffic noise level is associated with traffic speed but not traffic volume. Field measurement was taken simultaneously to interpret the relationships among the traffic characteristics using various models, the Burgess model, Fagotti model, and NAISS model. The NAISS model was better than the other models used in term of field measurements.
Batch adsorption studies on copper removal from an aqueous solution using natural zeolite: Process optimization
Authors: Muhamad Amin N A , Kamarudzaman A N , Rahmat N R , Hassan Z , Zainon Najib N W A , Amirah A S N , Ab Jalil M F
Published: July 2024

The ability of natural zeolite to remove copper ions from an aqueous solution was examined. The research aims to optimize adsorption operational variables, which include the amount of zeolite, pH, contact time, and initial heavy metal concentration for copper removal using zeolite. The research was conducted in batch experiments. The ranges of operational conditions are as follows: 0.2 - 1.0 g of zeolite, pH 4 - 8, 2 - 60 minutes of contact time, and 5 - 50 mg/L of initial concentration of copper. The outcomes indicated that the percentage removal of copper using zeolite achieved the best performance at an optimized adsorbent dosage of 1.0 g, a pH of 6, a contact time of 20 minutes with 135 rpm, and an initial copper concentration of 5 mg/L. To sum up, zeolite is an efficient adsorbent that is capable of separating copper from water-based solutions.
Removal of colour methylene red orange (MRO) by using commercial granular activated carbon (CGAC)
Authors: Salwa M Z M , Muhammad I A H , Amirah A S N , Kamarudzaman A N , Hassan Z , Mahyun A W , Rahmat N R , Najihah A R , Tamizi Selimin Mohammad , Zaini Makhtar Muaz Mohd
Published: July 2024

This study examined the effectiveness of granular activated carbon as an adsorbent for removing methylene red orange (MRO) colour from synthetic wastewater. The experiment involved using 250 mL conical flasks and maintaining the pH at an optimised value of 9. A concentration of 1.6 g of commercial granular activated carbon (CGAC) was mixed with 100 mL of MRO solution (200 mg/L) and agitated at room temperature. Samples were collected at specific time intervals to measure the MRO concentration. The collected data was analysed to describe the interaction between adsorbates and adsorbents. The Langmuir model showed a good fit for isotherm studies, supporting the efficacy of CGAC as an adsorbent for MRO dye removal. This study highlights the potential of CGAC for MRO dye removal and contributes to the understanding of the adsorption process.
Synthesis, characterization and performance of quaternized cellulose based flocculant derived from office paper waste for dye removal
Authors: Zainol Noor Ainee , Razali Nur Alyyssa , Yusoff Nor Aida , Ahmad Sohaimi Khairunissa Syairah , Rohaizad Nor Munirah , Zailani Siti Nazrah , Abdul Rashid Najihah , Abu Hassan Hassimi
Published: July 2024

The quaternized cellulose derivatives (QCs) were synthesized by reacting extracted cellulose from office paper waste with 3-chloro-2-hydroxypropyl trimethyl ammonium chloride (CHPTAC) in an aqueous solution of sodium hydroxide (NaOH) – urea. The characterization results by using Fourier-Transform Infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) indicate that the office paper waste properties changed after chemical treatment and the extract product was confirmed cellulose. In addition, the FT-IR and SEM results confirmed the successful introduction of cationic quaternary ammonium groups into the main chain of cellulose. Meanwhile, the XRD results revealed that the crystalline structure was destroyed during etherification reaction. By using synthetic Congo red dye, the flocculation performance of the QCs was evaluated via standard jar test method at different QC dosages, initial Congo red dye concentration and pH values. It was found that the QC10 exhibited a more effective flocculation capability as compared to other synthesized QCs for over a wide pH value. The QC10 performed the best at pH 7, 100 mg/L of Congo red dye concentration and 50 mg/L of QC dosage, with percentage removal of 89.09 %. These findings demonstrated the potential application of QC in dye removal.
Cementitious composites for structural strengthening of reinforced concrete members: A review
Authors: Mahmood Abir , Kaish A B M A , Raman Sudharshan N , Jamil M , Hamid Roszilah
Published: July 2024

Existing concrete buildings are always in need of repair or renovation as they are getting older, carrying more weight, or needing to be redesigned. The most common materials used to strengthen concrete structures are ferrocement, fiber-reinforced polymer, engineered cementitious composite, and ultra-high-performance concrete. However, there are some other methods and materials that can be used as well. There are pros and cons to every composite material that is unique to it. Each material works very well in certain situations and is known around the world for being able to be used in a wide range of situations. This paper gives a brief overview of several cement-based strengthening materials that have shown very promising results when used to repair older structures. This review looks at certain factors, such as how to retrofit a structure for bending, shear, and confinement. In conclusion, more studies should be done to come up with flexible industry standards for the use of cementitious materials to strengthen structures made of reinforced concrete.
Impact of nano-silica on the mechanical properties of lightweight concrete
Authors: Alghrairi N , Aziz F N A , Rashid S A , Bin Mohamed M Z , Ibrahim A M
Published: July 2024

Recent research has shown that lightweight concrete (LWC) offers a series of advantages, leading to a noteworthy evolution in this field. Numerous high-performance features are offered by nanomaterials added to LWC. This study examines the impact of nano-silica (NS) at concentrations of 1 %, 3 %, 5 %, 10 %, 15 %, and 20 % on the properties of LWC both fresh and hardened. Slump tests were used to estimate the workability of all mixes. To assess for toughened qualities, tests for density, compressive strength, and microstructure were employed. In comparison to the reference mixture, the application of NS improved the microstructure and total compressive strength. The percentage of NS at 5 % with a 90-day increase the compressive strength by 77 %. The microstructure analyses demonstrate that the hydration process of the cement paste can be changed with the addition of nano-silica, and new types of hydration products have been observed in nano-modified cementitious matrix. The interface between the lightweight aggregates and the cement paste can be reinforced by nano-silica due to the new types of hydration products.
Optimization analysis for bolted steel I-beam: Considering various sizes of beam web with a focus on sustainability design
Authors: Rahim Nur Liza , Siang Lee Jun , Salehuddin Shamshinar , Ibrahim Norlia Mohamad , Zahid Mohd Zulham Affandi Bin Mohd , Sofri Liyana Ahmad , Amat Roshazita Che , Fikri Rijalul
Published: July 2024

Steel structural construction has consistently held a pivotal role in modern construction practices. Presently, a substantial portion of research efforts has been directed towards the examination of bolted connections, while the optimization of steel beam usage has not garnered equivalent attention. This research initiative is focused on determining the ideal dimensions for the beam web through the utilization of finite element analysis (FEA). This analysis specifically investigates bolted steel I-beams featuring varying beam web sizes under concentrated loads. To achieve this, a three-dimensional (3D) simulation model of a bolted beam-to-column structure has been meticulously constructed and executed within the ABAQUS software to derive optimization insights. The beam web sizes considered span a range from 200 mm, representing a smaller size, to 400 mm, signifying a medium size, and up to 600 mm, which represents a larger beam web size. Following the simulation, the results pertaining to beam displacement and bending stress have been tabulated and compared against manually calculated values to validate the accuracy of the simulation. Remarkably, the percentage disparity between the FEA and manual calculations remained below 5 %, signifying a high level of acceptability. From the post hoc test, the efficiency rate of the 400 mm beam web size stood at 76.67 %, rendering it the most favourable choice in terms of cost-effectiveness and sustainability among the three considered sizes.
Evaluation of the physical barrier on lane segregation at multilane highway towards motorcyclist: A case study
Authors: Khan P A , Adnan M A , Sulaiman N , Lazi M K A M , Rafidah M. , Kamarudin S N N , Warid M N M , Satar M K I M , Yaacob H
Published: July 2024

In Malaysia, the escalating annual road traffic accidents, primarily attributed to human factors, necessitate a closer examination of these influences. This study focuses on assessing the impact of lane segregation on motorcyclists’ behavior within multilane roadways. Conducted along the R5 highway from Kapar to Kuala Selangor, classified as a rural highway, the study evaluates the 85th percentile operating speed, crucial for multilane flow rate. Two locations, one with median physical barriers and the other with only line markings, were compared. Traffic flow and speed were observed at 5-minute intervals over 45 minutes using a laser gun and tally counter. Analysis, based on the Malaysian Highway Capacity Manual, revealed that the median barrier location promoted safe speeds and a higher motorcycle percentage. Conversely, the absence of a median barrier but with line markings resulted in elevated speeds exceeding the limit, accompanied by a lower motorcycle percentage. These findings underscore the significance of median physical barriers in reducing vehicle speed, enhancing road safety, and curbing road accidents.
Performance evaluation of the compact water treatment system pilot project at Timah Tasoh Water Treatment Plant, Perlis, Malaysia
Authors: Rafiqah M T N , Azner A C Z , Haqi I A , Fahmi M R
Published: July 2024

Clean water is crucial to ensuring the well-being of people. The Package Timah Tasoh Water Treatment Plant (WTP) is designed to support the existing conventional plant in coping with the growing demand for clean water. The package plant used the Compact Water Treatment System, classified as a Category B in the Suruhanjaya Perkhidmatan Air Negara (SPAN) guidelines; thus, this performance monitoring research was conducted prior to product registration. The plant consists of aeration, flocculation, clarification, and filtration processes. The performance of this package plant was monitored through comparative and efficiency analysis of removal parameters and carried out over a period of six (6) months. Twelve (12) water quality parameters were selected, including turbidity, pH, total dissolved solids (TDS), colour, ammonia, residual chlorine, aluminium, iron (Fe), manganese (Mn), fluoride, standard total coliform, and E. coli with sampling water of RW, SW, FW, and TW, which was then assessed alongside the drinking water quality standards set by Ministry of Health (MOH). As a result, eight key parameters such as pH, turbidity, colour, TDS, iron, aluminium, manganese, and ammonia were meeting the MOH drinking water quality standards in over 94 % of cases. The remaining parameters are chlorine residual, fluoride, E. coli and standard total coliform were in non-compliance due to the inoperability of disinfection and fluoridisation processes. Most of the significant parameters deduced a better performance in terms of removal efficiency (> 60 %) consistently, except for TDS, throughout the monitoring activity.
Anomalous magnetic and electrical properties of disordered double perovskite alloy LaCaMnFeO6
Authors: Tran T A , Hoang T P , Khan D T , Rutkauskas A V , Kichanov S E , Tuan N Q , Truong-Son L V , Dang N T , Phan T L , Trang T T , Abiyev A S , Jabarov S H , Sklyarova A S , Bolotov E V , Zakhvalinskii V S
Published: July 2024

Double perovskite alloys are of significant interest owing to their intriguing magnetic properties and potential practical applications. In this study, we provided a detailed report on the structural, electrical and magnetic features of the double perovskite LaCaMnFeO6, prepared via the conventional solid-state reaction technique. Neutron diffraction analysis showed that the sample is single-phase adopting the Pnma orthorhombic structure with random distribution of La3+/Ca2+ and Mn4+/Fe3+ ions on A- and B-sites, respectively. A long-range G-type antiferromagnetic order was formed below T

N
= 250 K. Magnetic measurements unveiled a cluster glassy behavior at low temperatures with a complex distribution of cluster magnetic anisotropy energy. Ferromagnetic clusters consisting of two Mn4+ and one Fe3+ were found to exist in the paramagnetic phase. The complex magnetic properties of LaCaMnFeO6 are attributed to the cation disorder effect combined with the competition between magnetic interactions. Unusual electrical behavior with a large positive magnetoresistive effect was observed and correlated to magnetic phase transitions.
Luminescent boron carbon oxynitride phosphors: a cost-efficient strategy to boost solar cell spectral responsiveness
Authors: Soley Swati S , Verma Shrikant , Khatri Narendra
Published: July 2024

The incorporation of a Luminescent down-shifting (LDS) layer has emerged as a compelling approach for augmenting the light absorption sensitivity and power conversion efficiency of solar cells, particularly in the short-wavelength light spectrum. In this investigation, we propose the utilization of low-cost, environmentally benign Boron carbon oxynitride (BCNO) phosphors as a viable material for the enhancement of solar radiation absorption in the ultraviolet-blue range. We synthesized BCNO phosphors through a combustion method and conducted a comprehensive analysis of the structural and spectral attributes concerning the impact of temperature. The synthesized boron carbon oxynitride phosphors exhibit a hexagonal boron nitride structure, with an irregular shape and an average particle size of 2447.9 nm. The analysis of photoluminescence spectra reveals that BCNO phosphors effectively capture photons within the 300–500 nm wavelength range and subsequently re-emit them at longer wavelengths. This phenomenon aligns with the overarching goal of optimizing solar cell performance, as it is in the longer wavelength range that solar cells exhibit enhanced efficiency. These findings support the promising potential of BCNO phosphors as a compelling choice for deployment as an LDS layer material on the periphery of solar cells. By facilitating increased photon absorption in the short-wavelength region, BCNO phosphors have the capacity to significantly enhance device performance.
Modulating short-term and long-term plasticity of polymer-based artificial synapses for neuromorphic computing and beyond
Authors: Jeong Ui-Chan , Ro Jun-Seok , Park Hea-Lim , Lee Tae-Woo
Published: July 2024

Neuromorphic devices that emulate biological neural systems have been actively studied to overcome the limitations of conventional von Neumann computing structure. Implementing various synaptic characteristics and decay time in the devices is important for various wearable neuromorphic applications. Polymer-based artificial synapses have been proposed as a solution to satisfy these requirements. Owing to the characteristics of polymer conjugated materials, such as easily tunable optical/electrical properties, mechanical flexibility, and biocompatibility, polymer-based synaptic devices are investigated to demonstrate their ultimate applications replicating biological nervous systems. In this review, we discuss various synaptic properties of artificial synaptic devices, including the operating mechanisms of synaptic devices. Furthermore, we review recent studies on polymer-based synaptic devices, focusing on strategies that modulate synaptic plasticity and synaptic decay time by changing the polymer structure and fabrication process. Finally, we show how the modulation of the synaptic properties can be applied to three major categories of these devices, including neuromorphic computing, artificial synaptic devices with sensing functions, and artificial nerves for neuroprostheses.
The energy transition and local government finance: new data and insights from 10 US states
Authors: Raimi Daniel , Davert Elena , Neuenfeldt Haley , Zanen Amy Van , Whitlock Zachary
Published: July 2024

Fossil fuels are the primary contributor to global climate change, and efforts to reach net-zero emissions will require a dramatic curtailment of their extraction and use. However, fossil fuels fund public services at all levels of government, and research has not assessed whether clean energy sources can provide similar scales of revenue. In this paper, we analyze a novel dataset that we have assembled on how fossil fuels and renewable energy contribute to local governments in 79 US counties across 10 states. Revenues from fossil fuels far outweigh renewables in aggregate terms, providing more than $1000 per capita annually in dozens of counties. However, wind and solar in some states generate more local public revenue than fossil fuels per unit of primary energy production. In most counties that depend heavily on fossil fuels for local revenues, solar—but not wind—has the technical potential to replace existing fossil fuel revenues, but this would require dedicating implausibly large portions of developable land (in some cases, more than half) to solar. For counties with less reliance on fossil fuels, wind and solar can more plausibly replace fossil fuel revenue streams. This finding suggests that while renewable energy will provide new revenue streams for communities, fossil fuel–dependent regions will need to build new tax bases well beyond wind and solar, develop other sources of revenue, or risk a decline in public service provision.
Electoral change in England and Wales
Authors: Furlong Jamie , Jennings Will
Published: July 2024

This chapter provides a broad overview of long-term trends in the electoral geography of Britain, as far back as 1945. It considers the relative popularity of the parties in different regions over time, revealing the rising explanatory power of region as a predictor of electoral outcomes. It also highlights the divergent trends of voting in major cities, industrial towns, and rural areas. We provide evidence of a growing urban–rural divide in voting, as densely populated urban areas have become increasingly likely to support Labour over the Conservatives—with this geographical polarization reaching a high point in 2019. We further show how Labour’s vote has historically tended to be inefficiently distributed, less reliably converting raw votes into seats than its opponents, and importantly that the gap in electoral efficiency has grown in recent elections, as the party has piled up votes in larger cities at the expense of other areas.
In search of Red and Blue heartlands
Authors: Furlong Jamie , Jennings Will
Published: July 2024

This chapter examines the spatial structure of party support in England and Wales, revealing the continuing and changing areas of Labour and Conservative dominance between 1979 and 2019. Spatial analysis of vote shares reveals Labour’s heartlands have moved from coal-mining towns to larger cities, while Conservative ascendancy has remained across most of Southern and rural England. Extending the idea of a ‘heartland’ to include areas of electoral ‘over-performance’, we identify clusters of constituencies where compositional models under-predict support. For Labour, there is increasing over-performance in Merseyside, where sociodemographic characteristics cannot adequately explain the party’s electoral dominance. For the Conservatives, this is mirrored in Lincolnshire and parts of the West Midlands, with this tendency becoming stronger over time. The chapter concludes that space matters: while the composition of constituencies can accurately predict vote shares, there is a consistent spatial structure to the data, such that some areas do not follow expectations.
Politicizing Political Liberalism
Authors: Badano Gabriele , Nuti Alasia
Published: July 2024

How should broadly liberal democratic societies stop illiberal and anti-democratic views from gaining influence while honouring liberal democratic values? This question has become particularly pressing after the recent successes of right-wing populist leaders and parties across Europe, in the US, and beyond. This book develops a normative account of liberal democratic self-defence that denounces the failures of real-world societies without excusing those supporting illiberal and anti-democratic political actors. This account is innovative in focusing not only on the role of the state but also on the duties of non-state actors including citizens, partisans, and municipalities. Consequently, it also addresses cases where the central government has at least partly been captured by illiberal and anti-democratic agents. To put together our normative account, the book builds on John Rawls’s account of political liberalism and his awareness of the need to ‘contain’ unreasonable views, that is, views denying that society should treat every person as free and equal through a mutually acceptable system of social cooperation where pluralism is to be expected. We offer original solutions to vexed problems within political liberalism by putting forward a new account of the relation between ideal and non-ideal theory, explaining why it is justifiable to exclude unreasonable persons from the constituency of public reason, and showing that the strictures of public reason do not apply to those suffering from severe injustice. In doing so, the book further politicizes political liberalism and turns it into a framework that can insightfully respond to the challenges of real politics.
The Duty to Transform Public Reason
Authors: Badano Gabriele , Nuti Alasia
Published: July 2024

Normative theorists of liberal democratic self-defence rarely discuss the role of partisans as agents of containment of illiberal and anti-democratic views. In particular, they overlook partisans’ creative ability to reshape society’s public opinion, stressed instead by the burgeoning literature in political theory on ethical partisanship. However, this literature is similarly silent about how partisans should contribute to liberal democratic self-defence. This chapter argues that under conditions of liberal democratic deconsolidation, reasonable partisans should employ their creative abilities to transform the visions for society each of their parties campaigns on (or, in Rawlsian language, transform society’s public reason). They must never adopt unreasonable messages, therefore rejecting any compromise with popular illiberal and anti-democratic beliefs. Partisans have a moral duty to transform society’s public reason in a strategic way, working towards renewed political conceptions of justice that, while staying within the limits of reasonableness, have a chance of winning back the support lost to unreasonable competitors. Rawls’s appreciation of the pluralism of reasonable conceptions of justice allows us to assign a role to reasonable partisans of various parties on the left–right spectrum, potentially tapping into different electorates of unreasonable competitors. Moreover, Rawls’s distinctive account of sincerity in democratic deliberation turns out to be especially well-suited to justify this strategic behaviour as ethical. The case of right-wing populism is used across the chapter to illustrate in detail how this duty to transform public reason might work in practice.
Municipalities and Their Role in Containment
Authors: Badano Gabriele , Nuti Alasia
Published: July 2024

This chapter focuses on municipalities, which we define as any subnational administrative units with some powers of self-government or jurisdiction. Considering the resources that municipalities can tap into, it is quite puzzling that the literature on liberal democratic self-defence has thus far overlooked them. This chapter fills this important gap by identifying two duties that fall upon them and are triggered under different circumstances. First, we argue that municipalities should refuse to cooperate with unreasonable central governments when they enact legislation that violates basic rights and opportunities. Second, under conditions of deconsolidation of liberal democracy, municipalities must promote initiatives that attempt to prefigure the politics that political liberals would like to see realized one day. In other words, municipalities should try to establish and nourish relations of freedom, equality, and fairness, which characterize the well-ordered society, within their jurisdiction in the here and now. We also argue that central governments committed to liberal democratic values should implement institutional mechanisms that empower municipalities to discharge the two duties of containment when the proper triggering conditions apply. To illustrate the workings of these two duties, this chapter focuses primarily on cities as agents of containment. As we will see, cities are particularly interesting given their contributions to real-world efforts to push back against right-wing populist and other illiberal and anti-democratic actors.
Conclusion
Authors: Badano Gabriele , Nuti Alasia
Published: July 2024

This chapter concludes our argument by summarizing how we have developed a more political political liberalism. It highlights the innovative theoretical contributions that the first three chapters make: the inclusion of real-world minimally liberal societies into the scope of political liberalism, leading, in turn, to a new interpretation of the relationship between ideal and non-ideal theory within the framework; the integration into political liberal theory of a realistic acceptance of the fact that under any regime, some members of society will be coerced into obedience to a political order that is unacceptable to them; the justifiability of coercion and violence as legitimate political strategies under conditions of severe injustice. Next, the chapter recaps the strengths of the account of containment put forward in the last three chapters and, specifically, (i) its focus on non-state actors, which makes our theory particularly apt to deal with scenarios where the state has already been (at least partially) captured by illiberal and anti-democratic actors; and (ii) its three different tiers of containment strategies, where each tier has its own conditions of applicability. The chapter concludes by suggesting future areas of research, such as investigating which moral limits, if any, should be imposed on militant measures once their triggering conditions obtain, and theorising the role that social media should play in the task of containing the unreasonable.
Introduction
Authors: Knobe Joshua , Nichols Shaun
Published: July 2024

This new volume of Oxford Studies in Experimental Philosophy showcases the continuing development of the field. The submitted papers go ever more deeply into some of the issues that have long been central topics of experimental philosophy research (epistemic intuitions, metaethical intuitions, intuitions about causation) but also venture into new topics that illustrate the broadening scope of experimental philosophy research (slurs, experimental economics, Socratic questionnaires). In addition, this volume includes three invited papers. We invited scholars on epistemology, causation, and consciousness, to provide their take on recent experimental work in each of these areas.