Compliance Control Research Articles

Prevalence and Determinants of Complementary and Alternative Medicine Use among Children living with Epilepsy in Port Harcourt, Nigeria

Introduction: Epilepsy is a common neurologic disorder in children with its management centered on the use of anti-seizure medications (ASM). However, many children do not achieve seizure control despite being on the appropriate ASM. Hence, caregivers may seek complementary and alternative medicines (CAMs) therapies. The aim of this study is to investigate the prevalence and types of CAM used by children with epilepsy in a tertiary hospital in Port Harcourt, Nigeria, and the factors that determines their use. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among children diagnosed with epilepsy and their caregivers. Participants were recruited using a convenient sampling method, a structured questionnaire was used to collect data. Descriptive statistic was performed using IBM SPSS while Pearson’s chi-square test was used to identify significant associations. Results: The prevalence of CAM use was found to be 84.3%, the use of CAM is a risk for poor adherence to ASM. Family members were the main influencers in the decision to use CAM, and the majority of parents/caregivers did not consult their children’s healthcare providers before incorporating these therapies. Significant factors influencing the use of CAM includes: being a male (P=0.01), higher seizure frequency (P=0.002), multiple ASM use (P=0.01), and the presence of comorbidities (P=0.04). The most common CAMs used were prayers, kernel or crude oil and scarifications. Conclusion: CAM use among children with epilepsy is common and is a cause of poor adherence to ASMs with its untoward effects. It is crucial for healthcare providers to proactively inquire about the use of CAM with caregivers during the management of childhood epilepsy and to educate them on the possible risks specifically regarding drug adherence, compliance and poor seizure control.

FORMATION OF A CONTROL SYSTEM IN AN AGRO-INDUSTRIAL ENTERPRISE

The article examines the importance of control in the management systems of agro-industrial enterprises, which is critical for ensuring their stability and effectiveness in a dynamic environment. The aim of the article is to analyze, systematize, generalize, and improve the theoretical and methodological foundations for the formation of a control system in an agro-industrial enterprise. It is determined that in the context of constant changes affecting agriculture, the control function becomes particularly significant as it helps adapt enterprises to new challenges and prevents negative consequences. The study presents the elements of the control system in agro-industrial enterprises, which include: planning (establishing goals, defining standards, and developing plans that serve as a basis for further monitoring and control), monitoring (constant collection and analysis of information on the execution of production processes), deviation analysis (evaluating performance results and comparing them with planned indicators), and feedback mechanisms (providing information on the effectiveness of production processes and their results, which is used to update plans and improve subsequent stages of control). Key control tools applicable at all stages of agro-industrial enterprises' activities are presented: planning and forecasting, result analysis and reporting, monitoring and information, auditing and inspections, quality control of products, budgeting, verification and compliance with environmental standards, personnel management, risk management, and technological control. It is found that timely application of control tools helps avoid losses and maintain high product quality. The purpose of control is justified as ensuring compliance of all production processes with established plans and standards to achieve economic efficiency, reduce costs, and improve product quality. The study allowed for the identification of the significance of integrating modern control methods and information technologies, which significantly enhance the effectiveness of management processes. It is noted that the application of modern technologies, such as ERP systems, IoT, and analytical platforms, significantly improves control over all stages of production and supply.

Turning Research Ideas into Reality: A Guide to Developing a Simulated Research Protocol using Administrative Data

Objectives Demonstrate the translation of a research idea into a protocol with an analytic plan, including discussion on requirements for administrative data (AD) analysis, e.g., governance, time estimation. Foster discussion on processes for conducting AD research to enable learning and collaboration. ApproachParticipants were guided through three sections, and each alternated between presentations, group participation and discussion sessions. An overview of the Manitoba Centre for Health Policy (MCHP) Data Repository was presented to use as the framework for the AD discussion. Our chosen topic of discussion was: “How do health history and family history affect risk of poor outcomes for people with diabetes?” In small groups, participants discussed issues arising from translating the idea into a research plan. For example, define a cohort of people with diabetes, examine cardiovascular events as the outcome using survival analysis, and control for demographics, treatment compliance and family history of diabetes and cardiovascular events. We evaluated the feasibility of using AD to measure these variables. We discussed a method to estimate the time to conduct this proposed using AD, i.e., time for programming and analysis. Finally, we discussed data approvals and requirements when conducting research using AD. Conclusions and ImplicationsWe discussed the benefits and cautions of using AD and shared knowledge regarding research opportunities and obstacles across jurisdictions to identify commonalities and areas of opportunity for growth. The workshop was informative and interactive. It generated much discussion and was well-received among participants, with many asking for further information after the workshop concluded.

Energy performance evaluation of the ASHRAE Guideline 36 control and reinforcement learning–based control using field measurements

This study evaluates the energy performance of ASHRAE Guideline 36–compliant control (ASHRAE 36 control) and reinforcement learning (RL)–based control through experimental field tests and a simulation study. Three field tests were conducted at Oak Ridge National Laboratory’s commercial building test facility in Oak Ridge, Tennessee: a baseline with a baseline conventional control, a test with ASHRAE 36 control, and a test with RL-based control. The selected ASHRAE 36 controls were trim and respond control, as well as variable air volume (VAV) box control. We compared the measured supply air temperature of the rooftop unit, VAV box supply air temperature, and VAV box supply airflow rate across the three test cases. The field data indicated that ASHRAE 36 controls operated as specified by ASHRAE Guideline 36. Based on these data, ASHRAE 36 control achieved a 45 % reduction in hourly averaged HVAC energy consumption compared with the baseline, and RL-based control achieved a 66 % reduction. These potential annual energy savings were confirmed using a calibrated whole-building energy model. Compared with the baseline, ASHRAE 36 control reduced HVAC energy consumption by 42 %, and RL-based control achieved a 54 % reduction. Furthermore, RL-based control reduced total HVAC energy consumption by 21 % more than ASHRAE 36 control.

Anti-corruption and Compliance Control Practices for Identifying and Evaluating Corruption Risks

This article explores advanced international empirical practices for identifying and assessing corruption risks in public administration, highlighting the successful measures implemented by various developed nations. While it is impractical to fully replicate these systems, the insights gained from their experiences can inform and enhance domestic anti-corruption legislation. The Republic of Moldova, Slovenia, and South Korea serve as a case study, having made significant strides in combating corruption, as evidenced by their 2023 score of 42 points, 37 points, and 32 points respectively on the Transparency International index. This article examines the methodologies adopted by the aforementioned countries for assessing corruption risks within public administration, emphasizing the importance of public involvement and institutional accountability in mitigating corruption. By analyzing these countries' approaches, the article aims to provide valuable hands-on experience and guidance for other nations, including my country, Uzbekistan, seeking to improve its anti-corruption efforts on the whole in the fast-paced world.

Compliant Grasp Control Method for the Underactuated Prosthetic Hand Based on the Estimation of Grasping Force and Muscle Stiffness with sEMG

Human muscles can generate force and stiffness during contraction. When in contact with objects, human hands can achieve compliant grasping by adjusting the grasping force and the muscle stiffness based on the object’s characteristics. To realize humanoid-compliant grasping, most prosthetic hands obtain the stiffness parameter of the compliant controller according to the environmental stiffness, which may be inconsistent with the amputee’s intention. To address this issue, this paper proposes a compliant grasp control method for an underactuated prosthetic hand that can directly obtain the control signals for compliant grasping from surface electromyography (sEMG) signals. First, an estimation method of the grasping force is established based on the Huxley muscle model. Then, muscle stiffness is estimated based on the muscle contraction principle. Subsequently, a relationship between the muscle stiffness of the human hand and the stiffness parameters of the prosthetic hand controller is established based on fuzzy logic to realize compliant grasp control for the underactuated prosthetic hand. Experimental results indicate that the prosthetic hand can adjust the desired force and stiffness parameters of the impedance controller based on sEMG, achieving a quick and stable grasp as well as a slow and gentle grasp on different objects.

About the compliance service in the enterprise management structure

The results of the study suggest an algorithm according to which enterprises can minimize the risks associated with the process of implementing a compliance control system. Factors influencing the efficiency and motivation of personnel were also identified, which will be useful in building a loyal environment between employees and the organization. Thus, the authors determined that efficiency primarily depends on well-established contact between management and subordinates, and motivation — on the involvement of management in the life of the team and its participation in solving emerging problems. At the same time, the main demotivating factor is the incompetence of the manager.

Development of Dual-Arm Human Companion Robots That Can Dance.

As gestures play an important role in human communication, there have been a number of service robots equipped with a pair of human-like arms for gesture-based human-robot interactions. However, the arms of most human companion robots are limited to slow and simple gestures due to the low maximum velocity of the arm actuators. In this work, we present the JF-2 robot, a mobile home service robot equipped with a pair of torque-controlled anthropomorphic arms. Thanks to the low inertia design of the arm, responsive Quasi-Direct Drive (QDD) actuators, and active compliant control of the joints, the robot can replicate fast human dance motions while being safe in the environment. In addition to the JF-2 robot, we also present the JF-mini robot, a scaled-down, low-cost version of the JF-2 robot mainly targeted for commercial use at kindergarten and childcare facilities. The suggested system is validated by performing three experiments, a safety test, teaching children how to dance along to the music, and bringing a requested item to a human subject.

Neutronics design of shutdown and control systems for a Zero Power Experiments of chloride-based molten salt fast reactor.

Nuclear power's role as a reliable, baseload, low-carbon source and its importance in achieving clean energy goals are being increasingly recognized with growing urgency around decarbonization of the global energy systems. However, to deliver a long-term sustainable solution, it is essential to develop innovative nuclear technologies for improving the fuel utilization and reducing the nuclear waste disposal challenge. Zero Power Reactors (ZPR) are an essential initial step for developing new nuclear technologies because they allow for testing and refinement in a safe environment before large-scale deployment. This paper discusses the design of a ZPR experiments for the development of iMAGINE, a novel chloride-based molten salt reactor technology. The paper presents a detailed analysis of the neutronic design for the shutdown and control systems of an experimental ZPR based on the iMAGINE molten salt reactor technology. The study concludes that a split-core design with a lower corner reflector as an extension of the lower annular reflector offers the most robust ZPR configuration, offering optimum operational margins and maneuverability. This design ensures safety, regulatory compliance, and sufficient control and shutdown performance for the successful development of the iMAGINE technology.

KONSTRUKSI MODEL PENCEGAHAN FRAUD MELALUI RED FLAG BASED SYSTEM DI PEMERINTAH KABUPATEN JEMBER (STUDI KASUS DI INSPEKTORAT KABUPATEN JEMBER)

This research aims to present a system that can prevent fraud in the form of compliance and internal control within the Jember Regency Government through a red flag-based system. The study uses a qualitative case study method. The Inspectorate currently requires indicators to prevent the occurrence of fraud. The techniques employed to collect data include observation, interviews, and documentation. The results indicate that all Regional Device Organizations (OPD) in Jember Regency analyze various risks. These risks will be further analyzed for their root causes and the impacts they may generate. Based on the risk map that has been created, there are a total of 412 risks identified across 72 Regional Device Organizations (OPD) in Jember Regency. The focus of the risks with potential fraud in this study lies within the category related to finance (finance risk). Specifically, there are 33 financial-related risks identified across all Regional Device Organizations (OPD) in Jember Regency.

Effect of telemonitoring on the rate of dropout during home non-invasive ventilation: a retrospective study using a home care provider database

ObjectivesTelemonitoring (TM) of home non-invasive ventilation (NIV) has been shown to facilitate home/outpatient therapy set-up. However, the impact of long-term TM on therapy dropouts, compliance and leak control has not...

Skill acquisition framework in multi-robot precision assembly based on cooperative compliant control

Robotic assemblies are widely used in manufacturing processes. However, high-precision assembly remains challenging because of numerous uncertain disturbances. Current research mainly focuses on a single robot or weakly coupled multi-robot assembly. Nevertheless, more complex and uncertainty-filled tightly coupled multi-robot assemblies have been overlooked. This study proposes an efficient skill-acquisition framework to address this challenging task by improving learning efficiency. The framework integrates a dual-loop coupled force-position control (DLCFPC) algorithm, a parallel skill-learning algorithm, and collision detection. The DLCFPC was presented to address simultaneous motion and force control challenges. In addition, a parallel skill-learning algorithm was proposed to accelerate assembly skill acquisition. Simulations and experiments on a multi-robot cooperative peg-in-hole assembly confirm that the framework enables a multi-robot system to accomplish high-precision assembly tasks even without prior knowledge, demonstrating robustness against disturbances.

Active compliance control of grinding process for stripping enameled copper wire

The hairpin motor is among the motors used in eco-friendly automobiles. Unlike the random-winding method, this method features a square cross-sectional enamel coil formed into several hundred hairpins inserted into the stator. This offers an increased space factor, which leads to enhanced motor power. With the growing use of hairpin motors, there is an increasing demand for automated equipment in their production. With an aim to improve the manufacturing quality of hairpin motors, many countries are conducting research and development. The process of enamel removal is one of the key steps in hairpin-forming equipment and can significantly affect the performance of the motor. A precise machining process technology is required to improve the enamel removal process, achieve higher enamel removal rates, and reduce wire loss rates. Grinding is a technique used for enamel removal. In this study, an adaptive control algorithm was applied to the grinding process to enhance the enamel removal machining performance. During the machining process, the vertical position of the spindle was controlled to maintain a consistent machining depth for tracking the target grinding force. An experimental setup, which included a system for measuring the spindle torque to calculate the grinding force in real time, was created. To validate the performance of the adaptive control technology, experiments were conducted using this setup. Furthermore, experiments were conducted to observe the changes in the grinding force ratio based on the conditions of the grinding wheel. The correlation between the grinding force ratio and tool condition was analyzed, and based on this, the feasibility of assessing tool condition and determining the timing for tool replacement through real-time monitoring of the grinding force ratio was confirmed.

Error State Probability-Based Compliance Control for Peg-in-Hole Assembly

Error State Probability-Based Compliance Control for Peg-in-Hole Assembly

Investigation of the Impact of Manufacturing Methods on Protein-Based Long-Acting Injectable Formulations: A Comparative Assessment for Microfluidics vs. Conventional Methods.

Therefore, rhCCL22-loaded poly(lactic-co-glycolic) acid (PLGA) microparticles were prepared by conventional homogenization and microfluidics methods. The resulting microparticles were analyzed comparatively, focusing on critical quality attributes such as microparticle size, size distribution, morphology, drug encapsulation efficiency, release kinetics, and batch-to-batch variations in relation to the manufacturing method. Our results demonstrated that the conventional method resulted in microparticles with denser surface porosity and wider size distribution as opposed to microparticles prepared by the microfluidics method, which could contribute to a significant difference in the drug-release kinetics. Additionally, our findings indicated minimal variation within batches for the microparticles prepared by the microfluidics method. Overall, this study highlights the comparative assessment of several critical quality attributes and batch variations associated with the manufacturing methods of protein-loaded microparticles which is crucial for ensuring consistency in efficacy, regulatory compliance, and quality control in the drug formulation manufacturing process.

Міжнародно-правові та національні гарантії реалізації права особи на захист життя і здоров’я

This article analyzes the norms of international and national legislation concerning the right of individuals to life and health protection, through the lens of their practical implementation. The study identifies the positive and negative aspects of the legislative regulation of the right to protection, examines the reasons for states’ non-compliance with certain international legal treaties, and offers several remarks on the effectiveness and feasibility of the established legal provisions. In particular, the publication emphasizes the high efficacy of the norms of the European Convention on Human Rights, the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, the Convention Against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment, and the Convention on the Rights of the Child in light of the practice of the European Court of Human Rights and the activities of UN specialized committees. At the same time, the paper criticizes the effectiveness of the provisions of the Geneva Conventions and their additional protocols due to the lack of proper mechanisms for their implementation and identifies the main reasons for states’ violations of the aforementioned international treaties. Among the main issues of the implementation of the norms of these conventions, the author identifies the lack of political will of the states, insufficient training and awareness of military personnel, non-compliance by states with international justice mechanisms, and the lack of effective control and monitoring of compliance with the norms of the conventions. Additionally, based on the analysis of the practice of applying the legal rules on necessary defense, the article highlights the urgent need to define the time limits of the defense situation and the criteria for determining the proportionality of actions during defense at the legislative level. Furthermore, to improve and eliminate inconsistencies between the provisions of the Criminal Code of Ukraine and the Constitution of Ukraine, the author proposes specific amendments to the Basic Law.

ANTI-CORRUPTION COMPLIANCE AND MANAGEMENT IN THE CONDITIONS OF RECOVERY

The subject of the study is management and public relations in the field of anti-corruption compliance in the context of recovery. Methodology. The methodological basis of the study is the methods of induction and deduction, the dialectical-materialist method, the method of analysis and synthesis, and the historical method, which allowed for an objective understanding of the content and essence of the issues under study. The aim of the article is to analyse the theoretical aspects of the peculiarities of anti-corruption compliance and management in the context of recovery and to propose effective ways to improve the mechanism of these procedures. The results of the study showed that anti-corruption compliance in the context of restoration means not only a methodology for fighting corruption, but also the formation of principles and conditions related to conducting transparent and honest business. Conclusion. The successful operation of any company depends entirely on its attitude to corruption, which it must be aimed at combating. Violation of the anti-corruption policy can lead to irreparable consequences. The issue of establishing an effective anti-corruption system in commercial organisations is quite relevant. The main task of such a system is to identify and minimise corruption risks in advance, as well as to eliminate the causes and conditions of their occurrence in a timely manner. The need to develop and use compliance is based on the complexity of regulation and, therefore, the high probability of violating certain legal norms or internal rules. Anti-corruption compliance reduces the risks associated with corruption offences committed by employees, as well as the risks of damage to the company (not only material but also reputational). The study and synthesis of local acts adopted by organisations aimed at combating corruption allowed to summarise and critically evaluate an approximate list of principles that they most often adhere to when building an anti-corruption compliance system in the context of recovery. Adherence to the list of principles, taking into account their content and identified implementation problems, will allow to improve the typical model of anti-corruption management in the context of recovery. There are key management elements that can be identified, the presence of which in the corporate anti-corruption compliance control system allows to judge the success of such a system in the recovery environment. These key elements require a more detailed study, taking into account the specifics of the company's activities, but with their help, management can make anti-corruption compliance more effective in the recovery environment.

Multipoint Variable parameter compliant control of redundant manipulator based on the equivalent twin model of flexible contact dynamics

To elucidate the dynamic coupling mechanism involved in multipoint/arbitrary point contact during human–robot interactions with redundant manipulators, we introduce a compliant control strategy that adapts to variable parameters. This strategy is based on the flexible contact dynamic equivalent twin system for human–robot interactions. Using the Virtual Elastic Element Representation model for arbitrary point contact dynamics and leveraging the skeleton principle for contact force conversion, we construct a flexible contact dynamic equivalent twin system tailored for redundant manipulators with multipoint/arbitrary point contact capabilities. Within this system, we implement real-time adjustments to the impedance stiffness coefficient in conjunction with the virtual end velocity of the manipulator. We optimize the joint angular velocity of the manipulator while considering the motion allocation of redundant degrees of freedom. This optimization enables multipoint contact variable parameter compliance control for safe human–robot interactions. To validate our approach, we analyze the multipoint contact dynamic model of the redundant manipulator's interaction with humans and assess the feasibility of the variable parameter compliance control method using robot operating system simulations. Ultimately, we verify the effectiveness and practicality of our proposed compliance control method through simulation and experimental results.

Microwave-assisted sample preparation for screening of heavy metal elements in food additives by ICP-MS

The screening of heavy metals in food additives is important for public health due to their probable critical effects, induced by excessive intakes, and difficulties in tracing in food matrix. This study aimed to assess the applicability of microwave (MW)-based digestion and inductively coupled plasma-mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) for quantification of heavy metals in food additives. MW-assisted diluted acid digestion (1550 W at 220 °C, 0.79 mol/L of HNO3 solution) was applied as a pretreatment and ICP-MS was used for 19 different heavy metals at different concentrations, up to 20 ng/g. The optimized protocol was validated by spiking heavy metals to glycerin and applied to 18 food additives. The method was linear for 14 heavy metals (R2 > 0.990). For 11 heavy metals, both intra- and inter-day accuracies in glycerin were estimated to 88.5%–123.7%, with intra- and inter-day precisions of less than 5.5% and 4.9%, respectively, and their contents in food additives were discussed. The findings in this work provide an alternative analytical method for regulatory compliance and quality control in food industries.

КЫРГЫЗ РЕСПУБЛИКАСЫНДАГЫ БИШКЕК-НАРЫН-ТОРУГАРТ АВТОЖОЛУН КУРУУДА САПАТТЫ БАШКАРУУ СИСТЕМАСЫН БААЛОО

The study focuses on the quality management system during the construction of the Bishkek-Naryn-Torugart motorway in the Kyrgyz Republic. It aims to analyse key aspects of quality management, identify problematic issues and propose recommendations for improvement. The methodology includes analyses of regulatory documents, technical specifications and data collected during the monitoring of construction works. The main focus is on quality control of materials, construction techniques and compliance of completed works with standards. The analysis of data, regulatory framework and practical experience helps to identify the main problems and propose recommendations for improving quality management in road infrastructure construction. The study aims to improve the efficiency of road construction project management and ensure an increased level of quality of road infrastructure in the country. As a result, the key factors affecting the effectiveness of the quality management system in the construction of a motorway are identified. Recommendations on optimisation of quality management processes to improve the level of work performance and ensure long-term sustainability of the Bishkek-Naryn-Torugart road infrastructure in the Kyrgyz Republic are proposed.