bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Assessment of traffic noise pollution in Arau, Perlis
Authors: Noor Satirah Idayu Mat , Hasan Masitah , Mokhtar Zulfakar , Ibrahim Naimah 
Published: July 2024

Abstract
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

Abstract
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

Abstract
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

Abstract
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

Abstract
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

Abstract
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

AbstractSteel 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

Abstract
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

Abstract
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

Abstract
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

Abstract
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

Abstract
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

Abstract
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

Abstract
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

Abstract
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

Abstract
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.