bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Review of Recent Research on L2 Digital Multimodal Composing
Authors: Li Mimi , Akoto Miriam
Published: May 2021

This article reviews 26 empirical studies on digital multimodal composing (DMC) published in well-established journals between 2010 and 2020. It provides a holistic overview of these studies in terms of context and participants, multimodal tasks, technology, and research data. Research strands and themes are also identified. This review shows that most studies on DMC were conducted in tertiary ESL/EFL contexts. The research was informed by various theoretical/pedagogical frameworks across multiple disciplines. The multimodal writing tasks included digital storytelling, digital video production, and multimodal presentation. Data were analyzed to address three main strands: 1) L2 students' DMC process, 2) students' perceptions of DMC, and 3) effects of DMC. Of note, DMC practices were reported to have benefited L2 students, such as enhancing audience and genre awareness, learner autonomy, language learning investment, identity development, multimodal communicative competence, and L2 competence. This article ends with pedagogical recommendations and directions for future research.
Using Formative Assessment in a Blended EFL Listening Course
Authors: Tran Thi Thanh Thao , Ma Qing
Published: May 2021

This paper explores how a formative assessment-based blended English-as-a-foreign-language (EFL) listening course affects students' perceptions of their listening performance and what difficulties they may encounter during the course. The study was carried out at the Hue University of Foreign Languages in Vietnam. Sixty students majoring in English took part in this study. A 5-point Likert-scale questionnaire and semi-structured interviews were used to collect the data. The results show that the students positively perceived the use of online formative assessment in blended language classrooms. The findings suggest that the online learning platform supported learners in experiencing rich online learning resources, actively engaging a flexible, personalised learning environment and effectively practicing their listening skills. Regarding difficulties, the lack of technical skills, and anxiety related to social communication strategies were perceived as common challenges that limit learner engagement in the peer-feedback activity and in the collaborative learning community.
Using Automatic Speech Recognition to Facilitate English Pronunciation Assessment and Learning in an EFL Context
Authors: Xiao Wenqi , Park Moonyoung
Published: May 2021

With the advancement of automatic speech recognition (ASR) technology, ASR-based pronunciation assessment can diagnose learners' pronunciation problems. Meanwhile, ASR-based pronunciation training allows more opportunities for pronunciation practice. This study aims to investigate the effectiveness of ASR technology in diagnosing English pronunciation errors and to explore teachers' and learners' attitudes towards using ASR technology as a pronunciation assessment tool and as a learning tool. Five Chinese EFL learners participated in read-aloud tests, including a human-assessed test and an ASR-assessed test. Pronunciation error types diagnosed by the two tests were compared to determine the extent of overlapping areas. The findings demonstrate that there were overlaps between human rating and machine rating at the segmental level. Moreover, it was found that learners' varied pronunciation learning needs were met by using the ASR technology. Implications of the study will provide insights relevant to using ASR technology to facilitate English pronunciation assessment and learning.
Gain Schedule PI Fuzzy Load Frequency Control for Two-Area Electric Power System
Authors: Elmenfy Tawfiq H.
Published: May 2021

The use of proportional integral (PI) load frequency control (LFC) to ensure the stable and reliable operation of electric power system is practical important. Any imbalance between synchronous generators and consumption loads will cause frequency unstable within the complete power system. The purpose of the load frequency control (LFC) is to keep the power system frequency and the inter-area tie power as near equilibrium point. This article introduces a gain schedule PI fuzzy load frequency control (GLFC) applying to two area electric power system. The GLFC consists of two level control systems, where the PI controller in the conventional form and its parameters are tuned in real time by fuzzy system. A fuzzy rule base is constructed in the form set of IF-THEN that describe how to choose the PI parameters under different operating conditions. The simulation has been conducted in MATLAB Simulink package. The effectiveness of the GLFC is measured by comparison with conventional PI load frequency controller.
Optimization of Hydrodistillation of Rosemary Essential Oil
Authors: Larkeche Ouassila , Zermane Ahmed , Meniai Abdeslam-Hassen , Boubaira Souad , Kouis Hayat , Boubadjaa Hafida
Published: May 2021

Extraction of essential oil from Algerian rosemary leaves is carried out by means of a hydro-distillation process. The important operating parameters such as extraction time, condensation flow rate and water/solid plant material ratio, have been investigated. The highest yield value was 1.92% and was obtained for a water/plant ratio, a condensate flowrate, and extraction time of 20, 4.51ml/min and 120 min, respectively. The essential oil components have been identified using the GCMS analysis which show camphor as the major ingredient, followed by camphene, α-pinene and 1,8-cineole. The results have been compared with those obtained using a supercritical carbon dioxide extraction process, which has shown to be more much better quantitatively and qualitatively.
Inverse Problem Method to Optimize Cascade Heat Exchange Network in Central Heating System
Authors: Zhang Yin , Zhang Yinping , Wang Xin
Published: May 2021

In central heating systems, heat is often transferred from heat source to users by the heat network where several heat exchangers are installed at the heat source, substations, and terminals. In this article, the mathematical optimization model of the cascade heat exchange network with three-stage heat exchangers in a series is established. The aim is to maximize the cold fluid temperature for a given hot fluid temperature and overall heating capacity, the optimal heat exchange area distribution, and the medium fluid flow rates are determined through an inverse problem and variation method. The results show that the heat exchange areas should be distributed equally for each heat exchanger. It also indicates that in order to improve the thermal performance of the whole system, more heat exchange areas should be allocated to the heat exchanger where flow rate difference between two fluids is relatively small.
Hybrid Metaheuristic to Optimize Traceability in the Food Industry
Authors: Dhouib Saima
Published: May 2021

In this paper, the authors propose a new hybrid metaheuristic to solve the problem of manufacturing batch dispersion. The method consists of inserting the record to record travel algorithm (RRT) in the artificial bee colony (ABC) in order to ensure balance between the diversification and the intensification phases. The new technique is named RRT-ABC, and it starts by launching the standard ABC, and then the onlooker research phase is enriched by the RRT algorithm. So, the main idea of this research work is to solve the NP-hard problem of minimizing the batch dispersion using a novel metaheuristic because of the limitation of exact methods. Experimental results, carried on sausage manufacturing in a French food industry, proved the highly efficient performance of the proposed RRT-ABC metaheuristic.
Entrepreneurship Competence and SME Sustainability in Kampala, Uganda
Authors: Rulangaranga Donatus Mugisha , Isoh Alain Vilard Ndi
Published: May 2021

This study was carried out to establish the possibility of enhancing SME sustainability in Kampala, Uganda through boosting key internal drivers of entity performance (records management, internal communication, family influences, and online presence). Using conclusive, cross-sectional, and case study research designs supported by the philosophical underpinnings of critical realism and positivism epistemology, data was collected from 278 SMEs using semi-structured questionnaires. Using SEM analysis, it was revealed that all the key drivers have a positive significant statistical effects of the sustainability of SMEs (records management [S.E = 0.3; p = 0.000], internal communication [S.E = 0.229; p = 0.017], family influences [S.E = 0.162; p = 0.041], and online presence [S.E = 0.321; p = 0.000]). It was therefore recommended that key internal success factors identified need to be considered in the management and operations of SMEs in Kampala. This is aimed at guaranteeing the sustainability of SMEs and the boosting of the private sector.
What Determines the Pattern of China's Cross-Border E-Commence With the World?
Authors: Yang Gaoju , Wang Yujie , Lu Futao , Yu Linhui , Ma Shuzhong
Published: May 2021

Cross-border e-commerce has gradually expanded in international trade markets over the past decades. This paper analyzes the determinants of the volume of cross-border e-commerce in a gravity model framework. Moreover, the paper explores the role of internet popularity and finds a significant promotion effect on the volume of cross-border e-commerce. Furthermore, by utilizing cross-border express delivery data, the analysis indicates a significant difference in the impacts of the determinants between the aggregate and consumer levels and provides an important addition to the literature on e-commerce and international trade.
Freshwater mollusks as proxies for assessing agrochemicals hazards in Volta Grande Reservoir, Brazil
Authors: Sene Andressa Mendes , Rosa Daniel Melo , Gutierre Silvia Maria Millan , Pompeu Paulo Santos
Published: May 2021

Brazil has experienced a rise in the use of agrochemicals in recent years, representing a potential threat to nearby ecosystems. The Volta Grande Reservoir (Minas Gerais/São Paulo, Brazil) has about 87% of its area surrounded by agricultural systems, and many compounds used in agriculture end up being carried into nearby water bodies. Given the potential ecological risk, our purpose was to assess pesticides in the reservoir. We collected specimens of two bivalves and three gastropods using bottom dredging and visual investigation in three different sites within the reservoir. The sampling sites were classified according to their distance from the dam, and all were close to agricultural lands. The samples were processed and frozen for qualitative toxicological analysis using mass spectrophotometry. Eight pesticides were identified, including four organochlorines (Aldrin, p,p’-DDE, Heptachlor epoxide, and Endrin) and organophosphates (Disulfoton, Malathion, Parathion- methyl, and Parathion-ethyl). All five studied species (Limnoperna fortunei, Corbicula fluminea, Melanoides tuberculata, Aylacostoma tenuilabris, and Pomacea aff. canaliculata) presented traces of pesticides in their bodies. Of the eight pesticides found in our analysis, six are illegal in Brazil, raising awareness about the continuous use of forbidden pesticides, and also the ecological risk in the Volta Grande Reservoir area. Our results suggest stricter control by environmental agencies regarding the use and commercialization of these illegal toxic compounds.
Patterns of Proton Beam Therapy Use in Clinical Practice between 2007 and 2019 in Korea
Authors: Lee Sung Uk , Yang Kyungmi , Moon Sung Ho , Suh Yang-Gun , Yoo Gyu Sang
Published: May 2021

Purpose Proton beam therapy (PBT) is a state-of-the-art technology employed in radiotherapy (RT) for cancer patients. This study characterized how PBT has been used in clinical practice in Korea.Materials and Methods Patients who received any type of RT between 2007 and 2019 were identified from the radiation oncology registry of the two PBT facilities operating in Korea (National Cancer Center and Samsung Medical Center). The chi-square test was used to identify patient- and treatment-related characteristics associated with the receipt of PBT.Results A total of 54,035 patients had been treated with some form of RT in the two institutions, of whom 5,398 received PBT (10.0%). The number of patients who receive PBT has gradually increased since PBT first started, from 162 patients in 2007 to 1,304 patients in 2019. Among all types of cancer, PBT use in liver cancer has been steadily increasing from 20% in 2008-2009 to 32% in 2018-2019. In contrast, that in prostate cancer has been continuously decreasing from 20% in 2008-2009 to < 10% in 2018-2019. Male sex, very young or old age, stage I-II disease, residency in non-capital areas, a definitive setting, a curative treatment aim, enrollment in a clinical trial, re-irradiation and insurance coverage were significantly associated with the receipt of PBT (all p < 0.05).Conclusion Since PBT started in Korea, the number of patients receiving PBT has increased to more than 1,000 per year and treatment indications have expanded. Liver cancer is the most common primary tumor among all PBT cases in Korea.
Predictors of Rifampicin-Resistant Tuberculosis Mortality among HIV-Coinfected Patients in Rwanda
Authors: Habimana Dominique Savio , Ngabonziza Jean Claude Semuto , Migambi Patrick , Mucyo-Habimana Yves , Mutembayire Grace , Byukusenge Francine , Habiyambere Innocent , Remera Eric , Mugwaneza Placidie , Mwikarago Ivan Emil , Mazarati Jean Baptiste , Turate Innocent , Nsanzimana Sabin , Decroo Tom , de Jong Catherine Bouke
Published: May 2021

Tuberculosis (TB), including multidrug-resistant (MDR; i.e., resistant to at least rifampicin and isoniazid)/rifampicin-resistant (MDR/RR) TB, is the most important opportunistic infection among people living with HIV (PLHIV). In 2005, Rwanda launched the programmatic management of MDR/RR-TB. The shorter MDR/RR-TB treatment regimen (STR) has been implemented since 2014. We analyzed predictors of MDR/RR-TB mortality, including the effect of using the STR overall and among PLHIV. This retrospective study included data from patients diagnosed with RR-TB in Rwanda between July 2005 and December 2018. Multivariable logistic regression was used to assess predictors of mortality. Of 898 registered MDR/RR-TB patients, 861 (95.9%) were included in this analysis, of whom 360 (41.8%) were HIV coinfected. Overall, 86 (10%) patients died during MDR/RR-TB treatment. Mortality was higher among HIV-coinfected compared with HIV-negative TB patients (13.3% versus 7.6%). Among HIV-coinfected patients, patients aged ≥ 55 years (adjusted odds ratio = 5.89) and those with CD4 count ≤ 100 cells/mm3 (adjusted odds ratio = 3.77) had a higher likelihood of dying. Using either the standardized longer MDR/RR-TB treatment regimen or the STR was not correlated with mortality overall or among PLHIV. The STR was as effective as the long MDR/RR-TB regimen. In conclusion, older age and advanced HIV disease were strong predictors of MDR/RR-TB mortality. Therefore, special care for elderly and HIV-coinfected patients with ≤ 100 CD4 cells/mL might further reduce MDR/RR-TB mortality.
Potential Analysis of a DMC/MeFo Mixture in a DISI Single and
Multi-Cylinder Light Vehicle Gasoline Engine
Authors: Blochum Sebastian , Gadomski Bartosch , Retzlaff Mario , Thamm Fabian , Kraus Christoph , Härtl Martin , Gelhausen Ralf , Hoppe Steffen , Wachtmeister Georg
Published: May 2021

In this study a mixture of dimethyl carbonate (DMC) and methyl formate (MeFo) was
used as a synthetic gasoline replacement. These synthetic fuels offer
CO2-neutral mobility if the fuels are produced in a closed
CO2-cycle and they reduce harmful emissions like particulates and
NOX. For base potential investigations, a single-cylinder
research engine (SCE) was used. An in-depth analysis of real driving cycles in a
series 4-cylinder engine (4CE) confirmed the high potential for emission
reduction as well as efficiency benefits.

Beside the benefit of lower exhaust emissions, especially NOX and
particle number (PN) emissions, some additional potential was observed in the
SCE. During a start of injection (SOI) variation it could be detected that a
late SOI of DMC/MeFo has less influence on combustion stability and
ignitability. With this widened range for the SOI the engine application can be
improved for example by catalyst heating or stratified mode. Furthermore, until
λ = 0.8 no significant PN increase was noted in contrast to gasoline. This is
also a positive capability for combustion modes with local rich areas in the
mixture. From the experience of previous investigations, the synthetic fuels’
high knock-resistance potential enabled an increase in the compression ratio
(CR) from epsilon ~ 11 to ~ 15 to enhance the indicated efficiency.

In general, in the 4CE the positive effects of DMC/MeFo on harmful emissions were
confirmed. Even in the series configuration, the brake efficiency increased by
16 % at maximum low-end torque compared to gasoline. The increased in-cylinder
cooling and the lower laminar flame temperature by the DMC/MeFo implies lower
maximum exhaust temperatures. Therefore, a stoichiometric mixture could be used
over the whole engine map. During the legislative driving cycles, for example
WLTC, the PN, NOX, CO and CH4 emissions decreased by 50 %
or more.

In summary, oxygenated fuel opens great opportunities for replacing fossil fuel
in gasoline engine applications.
Next Generation Gasoline Particulate Filters for Uncatalyzed Applications and Lowest Particulate Emissions
Authors: Boger Thorsten , Glasson Thomas , Rose Dominik , Ingram-Ogunwumi Roychelle , Wu Huiqing
Published: May 2021

With the introduction of EU6d and CN6 all vehicles with gasoline direct injection and many with port fuel injection engine will be equipped with a gasoline particulate filter (GPF). A range of first generation filter technologies has been introduced successfully, helping to significantly reduce the tailpipe particulate number emissions. The continued focus on particulate emissions and the increasing understanding of their impact on human health, combined with the advanced emission regulations under RDE conditions results in the desire for filters with even higher filtration efficiency, especially in the totally fresh state. At the same time, to balance with the requirements on power and CO2, limitations exist with respect to the tolerable pressure drop of filters.

In this paper we will report on a new generation of gasoline particulate filters for uncatalyzed applications. This new generation of filters has been developed to enable very high filtration efficiency, in most cases above 90%, even in the totally fresh state and over aggressive drive cycles. At the same time the associated pressure drop penalty of these new technologies is moderate and under many practical conditions comparable to Gen 1 technologies. The performance of the new filter technology will be discussed based on experimental data obtained on several vehicles and under different emission cycles. The robustness of the new technologies will be assessed based on data generated on engine bench and real world mileage accumulation on public roads.
Real World NOx Sensor Accuracy Assessment and Implications for REAL NOx Tracking
Authors: Funk Sarah
Published: May 2021

The REAL NOx regulation requires tracking and reporting of NOx emissions starting in 2022MY for both medium-duty and heavy-duty diesel vehicles with potential to be considered during the next light-duty rulemaking. The regulation includes minimum NOx mass measurement accuracy requirements of either +/−20 percent or +/− 0.1 g/bhp-hr. Existing NOx sensor technology may not be able to meet the regulated accuracy requirements especially when exposed to other sources of variation within the emissions control system. This paper provides an assessment of real-world NOx sensor accuracy and the impact of other sources of variation and noise factors on NOx measurement accuracy. Noise factors investigated include NOx sensor tolerance, exhaust flow rate estimation, NOx sensor ammonia (NH3) cross sensitivity, mass air flow (MAF) sensor accuracy, NOx sensor placement, and laboratory emissions measurement capability. NOx sensors were often not able to meet the +/−20 percent accuracy requirement under transient operating conditions, and the addition of noise factors further degraded NOx sensor accuracy. A more complete operational definition of accuracy and support of that definition with a statistical analysis of repeatability and reproducibility, or Gage R&R, is introduced. An experiment to define NOx measurement repeatability and reproducibility is proposed in order to determine a measurement system capability-based metric for NOx sensor accuracy.
A Low Temperature Coolant Conditioning Cart for Testing DEF Thawing Systems
Authors: Vermiglio Ezio N. , De Salis Rupert , Clark Kent
Published: May 2021

Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) systems are required to function in cold ambient temperatures below the freezing point of DEF. Manufacturers may demonstrate compliance by following an EPA guidance procedure described below [2], using whole vehicles at winter test sites at −18 deg C or lower. However, commercial trucks may have multiple variants with different DEF system layouts, so it is impractical to test every possible configuration. A climatic chassis dynamometer (CCD) can also be used for this test, but this is still expensive and time consuming, and does not address the problem of complexity. Instead, much time and expense can be saved by using simulation methods to identify worst case configurations, and to demonstrate with confidence that a limited number of tests will cover the whole possible range. This methodology can further be used to show that a range of vehicles can be represented with selected rig tests in a cold chamber. Such a methodology depends on the ability to generate repeatable test data in a cold room environment. Previously published work [1] has shown that it is difficult to achieve a repeatable test. In particular, it is challenging to provide coolant with repeatable and accurate temperature and flow profiles, between −40 deg C and +95 deg C. A coolant cart has been developed to provide a stream of conditioned coolant, starting at −40 deg C or higher, utilizing user-specified profiles of temperature and flow rate versus time. The desired profiles were designed to match test data logged from truck engines during warmup from a typical cold overnight temperature of −22 deg C. Surprisingly, no suitable test equipment was found to be commercially available, and the task of designing and building such equipment was found to be challenging. The need to function at −40 deg C restricted the choice of components. The requirement to follow user-defined profiles for both flow and temperature, within tight error bands and following sudden changes, also required unusual care in design. A dedicated coolant cart was therefore commissioned and built. This paper documents the design and operation of the cart. Major component descriptions are provided, with circuit and input/output detail, recharge time and operator interface and processing. The end result is a cart that provides for repeatable cold room testing of tank thaw performance to support a simulation-based verification method, thereby reducing the need for whole-vehicle testing by 75%.
Acoustic Optimization of Mechatronic Direct Injection Systems and Analysis of the Effects on Robustness in System Operation
Authors: Mühlbauer Christian , Rabl Hans-Peter , Rottengruber Hermann
Published: May 2021

The tightening of the emission legislation and political and social demands for sustainable mobility are forcing the automotive industry to develop complex, high precision mechatronic drive systems. The increasing precision of mechatronic components generally leads to an increase in structural excitation and thus to a rise in noise. The so-called ticking of the fuel injection system has a rather low sound pressure level compared to the residual engine noise. Nevertheless, the impulsive and high frequency noise character leads to a decline concerning the perception of comfort and sound quality. In order to identify the sound quality of fuel injection systems as a frontloading measure, a system test bench has been developed which represents the structure-borne and airborne sound radiation of the stand-alone injection system in a close to series configuration. In this paper, measures for the acoustic optimization of injection systems and their effects on the robustness of the system are discussed. The focus is on engine idling, since at this operating point the ticking of the injectors and high-pressure pump can be perceived most clearly due to the low masking effects of other noise sources. For this purpose, the injection parameters were measured during full engine operation and transferred to the system test bench. By using a special development control unit, it was possible to modify the parameters, quantify their influence on the acoustic behavior and, based on this, define NVH optimized control strategies. For the robustness evaluation of the NVH optimized control strategies, key functions of the injection system were analyzed under varying boundary conditions in system operation on an injection rate test bench.
Bias and Repeatability of Measurements from 3D Scans Made Using iOS-Based Lidar
Authors: Heinrichs Bradley E. , Yang Mike
Published: May 2021

Apple introduced a lidar-based depth sensor and enhanced Augmented Reality (AR) application programming interface (API) to the 2020 iPad Pro and iPhone 12 Pro, making widespread use of 3D scanning possible. Here we quantified the bias and repeatability of the 3D scans made using this system. The exterior and interior of a single vehicle and the exterior of a filing cabinet were scanned four times by eight different operators. Each operator then extracted four measurements from each of the exterior scans, five measurements from each of the interior scans, and three measurements from each of the filing cabinet scans. Hand measurements using a string and tape measure were used as reference values to estimate the bias. The values extracted from the 3D scans were biased between 0.9 and 9.3 cm below the actual exterior measurements and between 2.2 cm below and 0.3 cm above the actual interior measurements. The repeatability standard deviation varied from 1.8 to 5.8 cm for the exterior measurements and from 0.6 to 1.4 cm for the interior measurements. Based on the measurements we used here, the interior 3D scans were more accurate than the exterior scans, with the interior scans having a similar bias, though larger variance, to hand measurements.
Assessment of the 50th Hybrid III Responses in Blunt Rear Impacts to the Torso
Authors: Buckman Jennifer L. , Parenteau Chantal S. , Burnett Roger , Viano David C. , Andrecovich Christopher
Published: May 2021

Blunt impacts to the back of the torso can occur in vehicle crashes due to interaction with unrestrained occupants, or cargo in frontal crashes, or intrusion in rear crashes, for example. Six pendulum tests were conducted on the back of an instrumented 50th percentile male Hybrid III ATD (Anthropomorphic Test Device) to determine kinematic and biomechanical responses. The impact locations were centered with the top of a 15-cm diameter impactor at the T1 or at T6 level of the thoracic spine. The impact speed varied from 16 to 24 km/h.

Two 24 km/h tests were conducted at the T1 level and showed repeatability of setup and ATD responses. The 16 and 24 km/h tests at T1 and T6 were compared. Results indicated greater head rotation, neck extension moments and neck shear forces at T1 level impacts. For example, lower neck extension was 2.6 times and 3.8 times greater at T1 versus T6 impacts at 16 and 24 km/h, respectively.

A 24 km/h test at T1 was also conducted with a seatback attached to the ATD torso to assess the effect of padding. ATD biomechanical responses were lower with the seatback, except for upper neck extension; head acceleration was 30 g with the seatback and 95 g without it. Head and T1 velocities were similar with or without the seatback.

The ATD responses were compared with published PMHS (Post Mortem Human Subjects) responses. ATD biomechanical responses were greater overall due to a stiffer, more durable spine. Pendulum forces were over 15 kN higher with a shorter duration than in PMHS tests. The head-to-torso rotation was similar at 24 km/h. This study demonstrates that the Hybrid III ATD is a useful tool for assessing high energy occupant loading by the seat.
Experimental Investigation of the Aerodynamic Benefits of Truck Platooning: Two- and Four-Vehicle Platoons
Authors: Ortega Jason , Salari Kambiz
Published: May 2021

A series of scaled wind tunnel tests are conducted to investigate the aerodynamic benefits of heavy vehicle platooning and the availability of cooling air for trailing vehicles on two- and four-vehicle platoons. To measure the aerodynamic drag, scale models are mounted onto a splitter plate by means of a low-friction linear bearing and a load cell located within each model trailer. In addition to drag, pressure measurements are made with a pitot probe positioned at the center of each model radiator grill. Four homogeneous, two-vehicle platoons are tested for spacings up to 300′ and six heterogeneous, four-vehicle platoons are tested with spacings ranging from 30′ to 50′. For the heterogeneous platoons, configurations are tested with one distinct heavy vehicle or medium duty vehicle, as well as with four distinct heavy vehicles. Over spacings of 15′ to 80′, the best performing homogeneous, two-vehicle platoons are comprised of a Supertruck tractor and straight frame trailer. Likewise, for the four-vehicle, heterogeneous platoon with one distinct vehicle, the greatest performing platoon for all vehicle spacings is the one in which the Supertruck vehicle is in the lead position with three following long-sleeper tractors with straight frame trailers. On the other hand, for the heterogenous, four-vehicle platoon with a medium duty van, the best platoon performance is when the van is in the last platoon position, which has the benefit of making it easier for the van to join an existing, long-haul heavy vehicle platoon. When all four heavy vehicles are different, the overall platoon performance is relatively insensitive to vehicle repositioning within the platoon, which provides the benefit of robustness to changes in platoon structure that may arise in real-world operations.
Efficacy of non-invasive intelligent volume assured pressure support (iVAPS) and pressure support ventilation (PSV) in clinical practice
Authors: Horvath Christian M. , Brill Anne-Kathrin , Baty Florent , Brutsche Martin H.
Published: May 2021

AIMS OF THE STUDY
Noninvasive ventilation (NIV) is a well-established treatment option for hypercapnic respiratory failure; however, the best mode of ventilation remains unknown. The aim of this retrospective study was to compare patients’ adherence to NIV using either pressure support ventilation (PSV) or intelligent volume-assured pressure support (iVAPS).

PATIENTS AND METHODS
In this retrospective cohort study, we assessed in- and outpatients suffering from hypercapnic respiratory failure of various aetiologies (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease [COPD], obese COPD [body mass index >30 kg/m2], obesity hypoventilation syndrome and other diseases such as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis or interstitial lung disease) after NIV initiation with PSV or iVAPS. Adherence to treatment was compared between these modes using the Wilcoxon test. Within-group differences were tested using linear regression models. Mortality and emergency hospital readmission rates were modelled using Kaplan-Meier estimates and Cox proportional hazards models.

RESULTS
Adherence to treatment was similar in both groups throughout the observation period – after 6 weeks: PSV 363 min/night (interquartile range [IQR] 200–448), iVAPS 369 min/night (IQR 310–468) (p = 0.619); after 1 year: PSV 423 (323–500), iVAPS 429 (298–475) (p = 0.901); at the last follow up: PSV 481 (395–586), iVAPS 426 (391–565) (p = 0.284). NIV reduced PaCO2 significantly compared with baseline at all follow-ups: PSV −1.29/−1.49/−1.49 kPa, iVAPS −1.47/−1.23/−1.24 kPa, p <0.001 each, PSV vs iVAPS: p = 0.250, 0.756 and 0.352, respectively. Median survival time (PSV 5.06 years, iVAPS median not reached; p = 0.800) and time to first readmission (PSV 3.6 years, iVAPS 7.33 years, p = 0.200) did not differ between groups. Obese COPD patients had a longer time to hospital readmission than lean COPD patients (3.8 vs 1.5 years, hazard ratio (HR) 0.39, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.16–0. 74; p = 0.007). Good adherence (>4 h/night and >80% nightly usage) was associated with a lower mortality rate (HR 0.34, 95% CI 0.15–0.77; p = 0.010).

CONCLUSION
In a real-world setting of a mixed population with hypercapnic respiratory failure, iVAPS and PSV seem to be similarly effective in improving gas exchange and demonstrate excellent adherence to treatment. A longer survival was noted in NIV-adherent patients. Randomised controlled studies are necessary to identify patients who might benefit more from hybrid ventilation modes.
The Benefits and Risks of Probiotic, Prebiotic and Symbiotic interventions in the Care of patients with Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Adams Gary G
Published: May 2021

including gut dysbiosis, intestinal barrier permeability and modulator of gut-brain axis and oxidative stress. This systematic review examined if their interventions resulted in improved clinical outcomes and were safe to administer.
Methods: An electronic search was conducted in August 2020 of CINAHL, EMBASE, MEDLINE, and PUBMED databases as well as using Google Scholar using keyword searches combined in a formal search strategy. The studies extracted were then filtered through an inclusion and exclusion criteria and assessed for risk of bias.
Results: Twenty-four studies met the inclusion criteria, with 20 studies involving participants with type 2 diabetes, 1 study a mixed cohort of type 1 and 2, and 3 involving prediabetes participants. Meta-analysis was not appropriate due to the heterogeneity in populations, methods and presented results. One trial was limited due to unclear risk of bias and was excluded. Four key themes were identified across the studies: improvements to glycaemic control; improvements in oxidative stress, inflammation and gut permeability; lipid profile, anthropometric parameters and blood pressure; and adverse events and tolerability.
Conclusions: Probiotics improved glycaemic control, oxidative stress, inflammation and gut permeability and lipid profile in T2DM participants. There was no evidence of improvements to T1DM due to lack of studies and insufficient studies on pre-diabetes. Synbiotics are also promising but prebiotics have insufficient evidence.
Experimenting with ZMET: Issues and adaptions
Authors: Ramjaun Tauheed Ahmad
Published: May 2021

This paper is aimed at academic researchers considering the adoption of the Zaltman Metaphor Elicitation Technique (ZMET) as a qualitative data collection method. It is meant to warn about the practical difficulties and challenges that the inexperienced ZMET researcher might face on the field. It argues that while the use of ZMET can allow for a deeper exploration of issues with participants, there could be potential challenges and issues that a novice ZMET researcher could face. Several recommendations are provided on potential adaptions to the technique based on the author’s own experience.
Prediction of Heart Disease Using Machine Learning Algorithms
Authors: Ravi S. , Sambath Dr.M. , Thangakumar Dr.J. , Kumar Danam , Naveen Gorantla , Bramiah Makka
Published: May 2021

As big data becomes more prevalent in the healthcare and medical sectors, accurate medical data collection benefits early diagnosis of heart disease, hospital treatment, and government resources. However, where medical data quality is lacking, understanding accuracy suffers. Consequently, some field diseases have unique features in different regions, which can make illness more difficult. It is now more hard to predict outbreaks. We automate machine learning algorithms for efficient epidemic detection in bacterial infection population in this paper. We put the modified forecasts to the test using securely and efficiently datasets. areas of the region to improve the situation of lost data, we use a predictive modeling approach to restore inaccurate value. Focused upon its patient's signs, a heart attack is suspected. Models were built using machine learning techniques. As a consequence, the accuracy is pinpoint accurate. The Flask web interface is used to build the Application. In this research, we shall conduct experiments using machine learning methods.
A systematic review of tobacco smoking cessation services in Africa: Practices and challenges faced by healthcare workers
Authors: Ilesanmi Olayinka Stephen , Agwai Victoria Ifeoma , Afolabi Aanuoluwapo Adeyimika
Published: May 2021

Background: Tobacco smoking is a global public health challenge, resulting in an estimated loss of 1.4 trillion United States Dollars (USD), a preventable risk that can be achieved through tobacco cessation services. The study, therefore, aimed to review the most frequently used methods employed by healthcare workers (HCWs) in providing tobacco cessation services and reported challenges in Africa.

Methods: A systematic review was conducted using five electronic databases (PubMed, Base, PsychInfo, Google Scholar, and African Journal Online) for published studies on HCW’s practices and challenges on tobacco cessation in Africa. We adopted a three-stage methodology to conduct the study, which identified articles using pre-defined key terms, screened articles to remove duplicates, and excluded irrelevant articles after reading the manuscripts’ titles and abstracts.

Results: We reviewed articles and found that 35.0% to 83.0% of HCWs frequently asked their patients to quit smoking. Also, 14.9% of HCWs assisted smoking cessation among their patients, among whom 3.9% prescribed oral depressants and 2.8% prescribed Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT). Further, 17.0% of HCWs had guidelines to help patients to cease smoking. Challenges were lack of efficacy and training, lack of system support, low sense of responsibility by some physicians to incorporate the smoking cessation therapy to their patients, lack of attractive educational resources on smoking cessation, limited knowledge on effective intervention strategies, lack of guidelines, lack of specialists for smoking cessation, and unavailability of NRT.

Conclusion: Follow-up should be commenced and intensified by HCWs for smoking cessation among tobacco smokers.
How we can Improve Students Interest in Asking and Answering Questions in the Classroom, The Case of Second Year Social Science Students of BHU in 2020
Authors: Wodajo Mengesha Robso , Hailu Bayisa , Tasente Tanase
Published: May 2021

This education research tries to look at student’s low interest in asking and answering questions in social science courses and teacher’s efforts, mechanisms and hard workings to improve students’ interest and participation in a class room and other project works. Likewise, the paper also assess and examine the causes of some students being silence in class room when they are addressed different individual and group class works in their session; and results that has been occur, after teachers tried to used and applied different evaluation strategies and pedagogical systems to motivate and initiate pupils to be active participant.
Metastatische pulmonale calcificaties als zeldzame oorzaak van matglasopaciteiten op een CT-scan
Authors: CARPENTIER I. , PEETERS E. , VANZIELEGHEM B.
Published: May 2021

Metastatic pulmonary calcification: a case report and literature overview

Ground-glass opacities have a broad differential diagnosis, including infectious, metabolic, inflammatory and malignant causes. This case presents an underdiagnosed entity of dense ground-glass opacities, namely metastatic pulmonary calcifications (MPC). This is a benign metabolic disease characterised by the deposition of calcium in the lungs, mostly described in patients with chronic kidney injury and secondary hyperparathyroidism. The majority of the patients require no treatment, but in some cases it may lead to irreversible lung damage.

Clinical and radiological features, as well as the patient’s history, are crucial to make a correct diagnosis since MPC has a relatively specific appearance on imaging.

This case study discusses the medical history and imaging appearance of a 44-year-old woman with MPC, followed by a literature overview.
Оммавий маданиятнинг пайдо бўлиши, функциялари ва мафкуравий таҳдид сифатидаги талқини
Authors: Мадрахимова Феруза
Published: May 2021

Мақолада оммавий маданият тушунчаси объектив маънода ўрганилган. Шунингдек унинг мафкуравий таҳдид сифатида намоён бўлиб, ёшлар онгига салбий таъсирлари очиб берилган.
Лечение пострадавших с травмами скуловой кости и дуги при помощи использования малоинвазивных методов
Authors: Ахроров Алишер , Пулатова Барно
Published: May 2021

Инвалидизация в результате последствий переломов костей лицевого скелета занимает третье место в нашей стране, причем люди младше 45 лет составляют 50 % от всех инвалидизированных. Целью настоящего исследования явилось повышение эффективности хирургического лечения больных с травмами скуловой кости и дуги путем использования малоинвазивных способов репозиции. Для уточнения уровня повреждения, пространственной оценки локализации и степени смещения отломков скуловой кости проводилась рентгенография костей лицевого скелета и компьютерная томография скуловых костей на томографе Siemens Somatom. При лечении пострадавших с повреждениями скуловой кости и дуги для стабильной фиксации следует использовать предложенный способ остеосинтеза.
Рақобатнинг эволюцион тузилиши ва вазифалари
Authors: Ахунова Шохиста
Published: May 2021

Ушбу мақолада рақобатнинг эволюцион тузилиши ва вазифалари бўйича аниқ маълумотлар берилган. Ривожланиш босқичларига ва унинг асосий вазифаларига тўхталиб ўтилган.
The article describes the factors of formation and development of the patriotic spirit in students, about the fact that patriotism is a complex and, of course, unprecedented phenomenon
Authors: Tursunov Shakhzod
Published: May 2021

The article describes the factors of formation and development of the patriotic spirit in students, about the fact that patriotism is a complex and, of course, unprecedented phenomenon.
Иш берувчининг фуқаролик жавобгарлигини мажбурий суғурталаш шартномасини тузишнинг зарурати ва уни расмийлаштириш тартиби
Authors: Хамрақулов Шавкат
Published: May 2021

Ушбу мақолада иш берувчининг фуқаролик жавобгарлигини суғурта қилиш бўйича мажбурияти, иш берувчининг фуқаролик жавобгарлигини мажбурий суғурта қилиш субъектлари, расмийлаштириш тартиби, ходим ўз меҳнат вазифаларини бажариши билан боғлиқ ҳолда меҳнатда майиб бўлиши, касб касаллигига чалиниши ёки соғлиғининг бошқача тарзда шикастланиши муносабати билан унинг ҳаёти ёки соғлиғига етказилган зарарнинг ўрнини қоплаш бўйича иш берувчининг фуқаролик жавобгарлиги қисман ёритилган.
Ёшларда фуқаролик фаоллигининг позициясини намоён этишда мотив, муҳит ва тарбиянинг ўрни
Authors: Муратов Хабибулла
Published: May 2021

Жамиятимиз ривожининг ҳозирги босқичида ёшларнинг маънавий соҳадаги фаоллиги уларнинг ўз актив ҳаётий позициясини онгли ва ижодий равишда амалга оширишидан иборатдир. Бундай позиция-юртимизда озод ва обод Ватан, эркин ва фаровон ҳаёт қуриши сиёсатининг моҳиятини билишни, ижтимоий ҳодисаларга теран муносабатни, жамият тараққиётининг устувор вазифаларини чуқур ўрганишни, яъни назария билан амалиётни моҳирона қўшиб олиб боришни, меҳнатга фаол муносабатни, юксак эътиқод ва ахлоқий фазилатларни намоён этишни англатади. Ушбу мақола ёшларда фуқаролик фаоллигининг позициясини намоён этишда мотив, муҳит ва тарбиянинг шакллантиришнинг тизимли-функционал ёндашув асосида ўрганиш таълим тизимида амалга оширилаётган ислоҳотларнинг амалий ва тарбиявий аҳамиятини ёритишда, таълим сифати ва самарадорлигига эришиш механизмларини тадқиқ этишда манба сифатида фойдали бўлиши мумкин. Кишилар шахсий ва ижтимоий қадриятлар борасида ўз қарашлари, тасаввурлари, қадриятлари, интилишлари, меъёрларини турли кўринишларида намоён этишади. Жамият, гуруҳлар, шахснинг ижтимоий манфаатлари намоён бўладиган фуқаровий манфаатлар тизим ҳолига келади. Айнан тизим ҳолида бўлганлиги туфайли фуқаровий манфаатлар ҳар бир шахснинг қадриятларини ҳаётга татбиқ этади, унинг жамиятга, давлатга, бошқа фуқароларга нисбатан муносабатини шакллантиради. Фуқаронинг масъулияти, мақсадлари, вазифаларини белгилашга, ижтимоий аҳамиятга эга бўлган хусусиятларини шакллантиришга кўмаклашади. Ёшларни юксак ахлоқ ва интизомли қилиб тарбиялаш, уларнинг сифатли таълим олиши ва ватанпарварлик руҳида вояга етиши мамлакат иқтисодий ва сиёсий тараққиётининг калити ҳисобланади. Бу эса ижтимоий барқарорлик ва муваффақият асосидир.
Кредит-модуль тизимида таҳсил олаётган технология йўналиши талабалари учун материалшунослик фани дастурини яратиш технологияси
Authors: Мухаммедов Шавкат , Рахматов Илҳом
Published: May 2021

Мақолада ҳозирги таълим тизимининг долзарб вазифаларидан бири таълимни жаҳон андозаларига мослаштириш ҳақида фикр юритилган. Таълим тизимига Европа стандартлари асосида кредит-модуль тизимини жорий қилиш йўллари баён қилинган. Олий таълимда кредит-модуль тизимини технология фани ўқитувчиларини тайёрлашда қўлланиладиган методлар шу жумладан Материалшунослик фанини дастурини тузиш кетма-кетлиги келтирилган. Фан дастурини тузишда унинг ўзига хос хусусиятлари инобатга олинган.Кредит-модуль тизимини олий таълимда қилишнинг афзалликлари ҳам  баён қилинган ҳамда тавсиялар берилган
Ёшларни ахборот-психологик хуружлардан ҳимоя қилишда бадиий адабиётнинг ўрни
Authors: Байэшанов Абдулла
Published: May 2021

Мақолада ёшларни ахборот хуружларидан ҳимоя қилишда, бадиий адабиётнинг ўрни, инсон шахсининг шаклланиши, дунёқарашини кенгайтириш, ҳаётга бўлган муносабатнинг ўзгариши, фикрлашига ижобий таъсир кўрсатишида  китобнинг аҳамияти масалалари ёритилган.
Xorazm vohasida baxshichilik san’atining rivojlanish tarixi
Authors: Rajapov Mardonbek
Published: May 2021

Ushbu maqola Xorazm hududida baxshichilik san’atining rivojlanish tarixi, uslubiyati, o’ziga hos jihatlari, shuningdek baxshichilik san’atining xalq og’zaki ijodiyoti bilan uzviy bog’liqligini aks ettiradi.
Ички ишлар органларида тезкор-қидирув хизмати фаолиятини такомиллаштириш
Authors: Джураев Фарход
Published: May 2021

Мақолада ички ишлар органлари фаолиятининг самарадорлигини ошириш, фуқароларнинг тинч ва осойишта ҳаёт кечиришини таъминлаш, юртимизда жиноятчиликнинг ўсишига йўл қўймаслик ва содир этилган жиноятларни иссиқ изидан очиш, ички ишлар органларида тезкор-қидирув хизмати фаолиятини тубдан такомиллаштириш, айниқса, ушбу фаолиятнинг барқарор мустаҳкам ҳуқуқий асосларини яратиш, тезкор-қидирув фаолияти тушунчаси, Ички ишлар вазирлигининг тезкор-қидирув бўлинмалари томонидан тезкор-қидирув тадбирлари, асосий вазифалари, тезкор-қидирув тадбирларни амалга ошириш асослари ҳақида фикр-мулоҳазалар билдирилган
Безорилик ва безори шахсининг криминологик тавсифи
Authors: Каракетова Дилноза
Published: May 2021

Жиноятчиликнинг динамикаси, тузилиши, даражаси ва ҳолатига таъсир кўрсатувчи объектив ва субъектив омилларни, шунингдек жиноятчи шахсини ўрганиш криминолог олимлар олдида турган долзарб вазифаларидан биридир. Мақолада Ўзбекистон Республикаси Олий суди статистик маълумотлари ва жиноят ишларини ўрганиш асосида безорилик ва безори шахсига криминологик тавсиф берилган. Жумладан,.безориликнинг содир этилишининг мотиви, сабаблари (омиллари), шунингдек безори шахсининг ўзига хос хусусиятлари атрофлича таҳлил қилинган.
Сурхондарё вилояти ОТМ талабаларининг соғлом турмуш тарзи ва жисмоний фаолликга муносабати таҳлили
Authors: Салимов Ўткир
Published: May 2021

Ушбу мақолада муаллиф Сурхондарё вилоятида жойлашган Олий таълим муассасалари талабаларининг соғлом турмуш тарзи ва жисмоний машғулотлар жараёнига бўлган муносабатини онлайн сўровнома орқали олинган маълумотлар асосида таҳлил қилган