Quality Control Measures Research Articles

Concept paper: Innovative approaches to food quality control: AI and machine learning for predictive analysis

The concept paper explores the potential of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) in revolutionizing food quality control processes. In response to the growing challenges faced by the food industry in ensuring consistent quality and safety standards, this paper proposes leveraging advanced technologies to enhance predictive analysis. The traditional methods of food quality control are often reactive and time-consuming, leading to inefficiencies and increased risks of contamination or spoilage. By harnessing AI and ML algorithms, businesses can shift towards proactive strategies, predicting potential issues before they arise and implementing preventive measures accordingly. Key components of the proposed approach include data collection from various sources such as sensors, supply chain records, and historical quality data. Through sophisticated data analysis techniques, AI systems can identify patterns, anomalies, and correlations that might indicate deviations from expected quality standards. Moreover, ML models can continuously learn and adapt based on new data, improving prediction accuracy over time. Implementation of AI-driven predictive analysis in food quality control offers several benefits. Automation of quality control processes reduces manual effort and enables real-time monitoring, enabling timely interventions to maintain product quality. By minimizing the likelihood of product recalls, waste, and rework, businesses can achieve significant cost savings associated with quality control measures. Consistently delivering high-quality products strengthens consumer trust and loyalty, leading to increased market competitiveness and brand reputation. AI-powered systems can assist in ensuring compliance with stringent food safety regulations by providing comprehensive documentation of quality control measures and outcomes. However, successful adoption of AI and ML technologies in food quality control requires overcoming various challenges, including data privacy concerns, integration with existing systems, and ensuring the reliability and interpretability of AI-driven insights. the integration of AI and ML for predictive analysis represents a transformative opportunity for the food industry to modernize quality control practices and uphold the highest standards of safety and excellence. Embracing innovation in this domain is essential for staying competitive in a rapidly evolving market landscape and meeting the evolving expectations of consumers and regulatory bodies alike.

Detection and quantification of splicing variants of Hd3a gene in oil palm

Alternative splicing is a complex process that contributes to the generation of diverse mRNA and protein isoforms, including in oil palm (Elaeis guineensis). Despite their importance, many functions of alternative splicing genes remain poorly characterized. This study aims to investigate splicing variants of gene encoding Heading date 3a in E. guineensis (EgHd3a) using the GenBank database and ClustalW algorithm. To ensure the data accuracy and reliability of design isoform‐ specific primers, special emphasis is given to primer design techniques and validation using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and quantitative real‐time (qRT)‐PCR analysis. The designed primers demonstrated high specificity and discrimination between mRNA specimens. Nucleotide variations at the 3’‐end influenced the specificity of primers with the addition of GC composition. Furthermore, qRT‐PCR analysis revealed a strong correlation between Ct values and gene concentration for the isoforms which indicates a reliable amplification of EgHd3a. Although two isoforms, Hd3a‐X2 and Hd3a‐X3, showed slightly higher than acceptable PCR efficiency values, caution is advised to prevent non‐specific amplification. Despite the challenge posed by the limitation of primer positioning due to alternative splicing, the chosen primer proved optimal for analysis. This study highlights the importance of considering alternative splicing in gene quantification experiments and provides insights into the critical steps, methods, and quality control measures necessary for accurately detecting alternative splicing events, contributing to understanding this complex biological process.

Evaluation of Lipid Profile and Oxidative Stress of Workers in Fast Food Restaurants and The Risk of Atherosclerosis

Cooking fumes and biomass smoke pose significant threats to air degradation and human health, especially to people who work in this field on a daily basis, due to the large amounts of hazardous pollutants released from grilling activities. Chronic exposure to these fumes is associated with a risk of inflammation and oxidative stress, which can increase the risk of atherosclerosis. In this study, the lipid profile Glutathion (GSH) and Malondialdehyde (MDA) of workers in fast food restaurants and patients with atherosclerosis were evaluated. The study included 40 Atherosclerosis patients, 40 fast food workers, and 40 healthy individuals as a control group, the ages ranges of (20-40) years. The obtained results indicated a significant increase in cholesterol, triglycerides, LDL, and VLDL and a decrease in HDL (p < 0.01) in patients and fast-food workers compared to control group. The results also indicated a significant increase in the level of MDA, and a significant decrease in the level of GSH for patients and fast-food workers compared to the control. In conclusion, it appears that fast food workers experience oxidative stress and disruption in lipid metabolism that may increase the risk of atherosclerosis. Therefore, safety and quality control measures must be strengthened to reduce the occupational risks of fast-food restaurant workers.

An Overview of Degradation Strategies for Amitriptyline.

Antidepressant drugs play a crucial role in the treatment of mental health disorders, but their efficacy and safety can be compromised by drug degradation. Recent reports point to several drugs found in concentrations ranging from the limit of detection (LOD) to hundreds of ng/L in wastewater plants around the globe; hence, antidepressants can be considered emerging pollutants with potential consequences for human health and wellbeing. Understanding and implementing effective degradation strategies are essential not only to ensure the stability and potency of these medications but also for their safe disposal in line with current environment remediation goals. This review provides an overview of degradation pathways for amitriptyline, a typical tricyclic antidepressant drug, by exploring chemical routes such as oxidation, hydrolysis, and photodegradation. Connex issues such as stability-enhancing approaches through formulation and packaging considerations, regulatory guidelines, and quality control measures are also briefly noted. Specific case studies of amitriptyline degradation pathways forecast the future perspectives and challenges in this field, helping researchers and pharmaceutical manufacturers to provide guidelines for the most effective degradation pathways employed for minimal environmental impact.

Analysis of Water Conservancy Engineering Construction Technology and Quality Control

At the present stage, the development of social economy and science and technology has promoted the prosperity of Chinese water conservancy construction undertakings, some of which water conservancy engineering construction projects have obtained a high level of in- ternational attention and attention. To continue to promote the rapid development of water conservancy construction in our country, it is neces- sary to optimize and perfect construction technology, and strengthen the implementation of quality control measures, to improve the integrity of water conservancy project construction quality. Therefore, this paper briefly analyzes the construction technology and construction quality control of water conservancy projects for reference.

GENETIC DIFFERENTIATION AMONG RED COLORED BOS INDICUS SUBCONTINENT ORIGIN BREEDS USING SNP CHIP DATA

In Pakistan, Sahiwal and Cholistani cattle are considered as dairy breeds with traits of disease resistance, heat tolerance, and adaptability to high temperature. These breeds are considered two different breeds although Sahiwal is considered an off shoot of Cholistani cattle. However, these breeds have never been characterized genotypically using SNP data. Moreover, information on genotypic differentiation is unavailable for other subcontinent red colored breeds i.e., Gir, Brahman and Red Sindhi. Thus, present study was meant to investigate distinctive genetic architect if any of these red color breeds of same region of the world. Genotype data of 50K SNP Bead chip was retrieved online from Dryad database. Quality control measures were performed in Plink 1.9 software. Admixture, Principal component analysis and Multidimensional scaling were used for breeds distinction while genetic diversity was estimated using linkage disequilibrium. The genetic structure of these breeds clearly differentiated them from each other performed by admixture analysis from K =2 to K =5. Similarly, all breeds principally differentially scattered in PCA and MDS results. The study revealed different genetic structure for Cholistani and Sahiwal indicating as distinct breeds while Brahman had mixed genetic architect of other Bos indicus subcontinent breeds. The findings of the current study stress for separate genetic improvement program of Sahiwal and Cholistani cattle. Key words: Cholistani, Sahiwal, SNPs chip, Admixture, Pakistan.

Enhancing Retailer Satisfaction: Strategies and Best Practices

Within the energetic and competitive scene of the retail industry, the fulfillment of retailers plays a essential part in deciding the victory and supportability of supplier-retailer associations. This long theoretical investigates comprehensive methodologies and best hones pointed at upgrading retailer fulfillment, in this manner cultivating more grounded and more affluent connections between providers and retailers. Understanding the different needs and inclinations of retailers is foundational to any exertion pointed at upgrading fulfillment. Providers ought to utilize different strategies, counting standard overviews, input components, and advertise examination, to pick up bits of knowledge into retailer desires, requests, and showcase patterns. By understanding these components, providers can tailor their offerings and administrations to meet the particular prerequisites of retailers, hence upgrading fulfillment. Consistency in item quality is vital in keeping up retailer fulfillment. Providers must actualize strong quality control measures all through the generation and supply chain to guarantee that items reliably meet or surpass the desires of retailers and their clients. Clear details, rules for item dealing with and capacity, and responsive back for quality-related issues contribute to building believe and certainty among retailers. Proficiency in requesting and conveyance forms is another basic angle of upgrading retailer fulfillment. Providers ought to contribute in user-friendly online requesting stages, streamlined coordinations, and adaptable conveyance choices to disentangle the obtainment prepare for retailers. Opportune and exact conveyances are fundamental for minimizing disturbances to retailers’ operations and keeping up believe and unwavering quality. Remarkable client bolster is irreplaceable in tending to retailers’ request, concerns, and issues expeditiously and viably. Providers ought to keep up devoted back channels staffed with learned and responsive agents. Standard preparing sessions can enable bolster staff with item information and communication aptitudes, empowering them to supply personalized help and investigating direction to retailers. Building solid and collaborative connections is crucial to cultivating retailer fulfillment. Providers ought to develop a organization mentality based on believe, straightforwardness, and shared regard. Organizing occasions, workshops, and motivation programs can encourage interaction and collaboration between providers and retailers, cultivating a sense of community and shared objectives Nonstop advancement and advancement are key to remaining ahead within the competitive retail scene. Providers ought to request progressing input from retailers to distinguish zones for enhancement and contribute in investigate and improvement to present modern items, highlights, and administrations custom fitted to retailer needs and inclinations. Checking and measuring fulfillment measurements are basic for assessing execution and identifying areas for improvement. Key execution markers such as arrange precision, on-time conveyance, and client criticism scores can give profitable bits of knowledge into the adequacy of supplier-retailer intuitive. Leveraging information analytics devices empowers providers to pick up more profound experiences into retailer behavior and inclinations, encouraging educated decision-making and methodology refinement. In conclusion, upgrading retailer fulfillment requires a multifaceted approach that envelops understanding retailer needs, guaranteeing item quality and unwavering quality, streamlining forms, giving remarkable bolster, building solid connections, cultivating innovation, and checking execution. By prioritizing these methodologies and best hones, providers can develop more grounded associations with retailers, driving common victory and competitive advantage within the retail industry.

Abstract 7612: Genetic predictors of anti-PD(L)-1 therapy response in hepatocellular carcinoma

Abstract Introduction: Immunotherapy targeting PD-1/PD-L1 shows promise in treating hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), but standard predictors like PD-L1 expression are unreliable for gauging treatment response. RNA sequencing has identified a BMS 4-gene inflammatory signature that could more accurately forecast clinical outcomes. However, genomic alterations and tumor mutational burden (TMB) haven't consistently predicted anti-PD(L)-1 therapy response in HCC. Therefore, the aim of this research is to identify potential genetic alternation that could serve as predictive marker for anti-PD(L)-1 therapy responses in advanced HCC. Methods: Formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tumor tissues from 38 HCC patients were analyzed using targeted next-generation sequencing with the ACTOncoTM panel before anti-PD(L)-1 therapy. This analysis identified somatic variants across 440 genes and calculated TMB. In silico tools like NetMHC and IEDB predicted neo-peptide-HLA class I binding affinity. Additionally, peripheral blood mononuclear cells provided germline data for paired TMB calculations, with tumor responses assessed by RECIST criteria. Results: Within a cohort of 167 patients with HCC undergoing ICI therapy, 35 (20.9%) responded to treatment, while 132 (79.1%) did not. Available formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) samples from this population included those from 14 responders and 30 non-responders. After conducting quality control measures, which assessed tumor purity, DNA quantity and integrity, as well as sequencing quality, 13 samples from responders and 25 from non-responders qualified for further analysis. Gene alteration analysis identified mutations in TP53 (47%), MUC16 (34%), CTNNB1 (32%), USH2A (16%), ARID1A (13%), NOTCH3 (13%), and ADAMTS16 (11%) of the cases. A TP53 mutation was linked to poor overall survival, whereas mutations in CTNNB1 and the RTK/RAS/RAF pathway did not correlate with clinical outcomes. The median TMB, predicted at 3.2 ± 4.3 mutations per megabase (muts/Mb), was nominally higher in patients who achieved disease control compared to non-responders (4.6 vs. 3.7 muts/Mb, p=0.53). Utilizing paired TMB analysis, those with disease control exhibited a higher TMB trend than non-responders (6.0 vs. 2.2 muts/Mb, p=0.06). Notably, the 13 cases with MUC16 mutations were associated with a significantly higher predicted TMB (10.0 vs. 3.3 muts/Mb, p=0.0015). Conclusions: This study suggests that certain genetic alterations, especially TP53 mutations, may have predictive value for the response to anti-PD(L)-1 therapy in HCC. Moreover, an elevated TMB, particularly when associated with MUC16 mutations, seems to be correlated with improved disease control. Citation Format: San-Chi Chen, Nai-Jung Chiang, MingHuang Chen, Muh-Hwa Yang. Genetic predictors of anti-PD(L)-1 therapy response in hepatocellular carcinoma [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2024; Part 1 (Regular Abstracts); 2024 Apr 5-10; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(6_Suppl):Abstract nr 7612.

Assessment of Pre-analytical Errors and Fostering Strategies to Enhance Accurate Results and Efficient Turnaround Times in the Cytology Laboratory of a Tertiary Care Hospital.

Introduction Pre-analytical errors in cytology laboratories can significantly impact the accuracy of diagnostic results and turnaround times, ultimately affecting patient care. This article presents an evaluation of pre-analytical errors and proposes fostering strategies to enhance accuracy and efficiency in the cytology laboratory of a tertiary care hospital. The background discusses the importance of pre-analytical processes in ensuring reliable cytological diagnoses and the common errors encountered in specimen collection, handling, and transportation. Strategies for error reduction and improvement in turnaround times include staff education, standardization of procedures, utilization of appropriate collection and transport devices, implementation of quality control measures, and utilization of automation technologies. By addressing pre-analytical errors and implementing fostering strategies, cytology laboratories can optimize diagnostic accuracy, improve patient care outcomes, and enhance overall laboratory efficiency. Aims and objectives This study aims to assess the prevalence and nature of pre-analytical errors in the cytology laboratory of a tertiary care hospital to understand the extent of the issue, identify the specific factors contributing to pre-analytical errors like specimen collection, handling, and transportation processes, and pinpoint areas for improvement. It seeks to evaluate the impact of pre-analytical errors on the accuracy of cytological results and the efficiency of turnaround times, highlighting the consequences for patient care. Furthermore, the study aims to develop targeted strategies to minimize pre-analytical errors and enhance the accuracy of cytological results. Materials and methods This study was conducted at the Cytology Laboratory of our hospital from January 2023 to December 2023 after getting proper approval from the Institutional Review Board (IRB approval number 101/02/2024/PG/SRB/SMCH). It is a retrospective analytical study, and a total of 5412 samples from patients of the outpatient (OP) department, inpatient (IP) department, and community health outreach program facilities received in the cytology laboratory were analyzed during the study period. The inclusion criteria were the test samples sent specifically for cytological analysis. The samples sent for biochemical or microbiological examination were excluded. The frequency of sample distribution and rejected samples were calculated and the results were correlated. Results A total of 5,412 samples received in the cytology laboratory were analyzed during the study period. The majority of the samples were Papanicolaou smears (2,352, 43.5%), followed by fluid cytology (1,008, 18.6%) and ultrasound-guided fine-needle aspiration cytology (FNAC, 984, 18.2%). Of the total number of samples, 225 (4.16%) were repeated and 27 (0.5%) were rejected. Conclusions Pre-analytical, analytical, and post-analytical processes are the three key factors that determine the dependability and precision of cytological test results. Detecting critical alerts such as the positivity of malignancy underscores the paramount importance of result accuracy. Implementing good laboratory practices and conducting both external and internal audits can reduce the frequency of preventable errors in a cytology laboratory, thereby ensuring enhanced precision and expedited outputs.

Strategies to Boost Boiler Efficiency and Reduce Operational Downtime

This study examines the decline in boiler performance, highlighting the imperative of efficient maintenance to prevent operational disruptions and financial losses. The focus is on the analysis of boiler functionality, identifying factors that contribute to reduced efficiency and increased downtime. Utilizing performance data from August 2023, the research documents a significant downtime of 4610 minutes, primarily attributed to mechanical issues and extended recovery periods totaling 1920 minutes. The study also reports a high fuel usage efficiency ratio of 35 Kg/cm3, underscoring the challenges in initial recovery efforts. Despite these setbacks, machine quality metrics indicated no defects, suggesting effective quality control measures. The findings underscore the critical relationship between maintenance strategies and boiler efficiency, proposing that proactive maintenance could mitigate downtime and enhance productivity, thereby supporting sustained operational efficiency. Highlights: Maintenance crucial for boiler efficiency and cost savings. Downtime leads to production delays and financial losses. Performance metrics indicate operational reliability and effectiveness. Keywords : Boiler, Maintenance, Operating Time

Product labeling accuracy and contamination analysis of commercially available cannabidiol product samples.

Background and objective: Commercially available cannabidiol (CBD) products are increasingly being used for medicinal purposes, including for the treatment of various neurological conditions, but there are growing concerns around adherence to quality control measures that protect consumers. This study was conducted to assess the purity and label accuracy of commercially available CBD products. Methods: Commercially available CBD products were chosen from the open stream of commerce in the United States based on formulations as a tincture, gummy, vape, or topical product. Cannabinoid concentrations were analyzed to verify label accuracy including "full spectrum," "broad spectrum," and "CBD isolate" claims on the product label. Analysis for the presence of contaminants included evaluation for heavy metals, pesticides, and residual solvents. Labeled and actual total amounts of CBD and levels of impurities such as heavy metals, residual solvents, and pesticides were measured. Results: A total of 202 CBD products (100 tinctures, 48 gummies, 34 vape products, and 20 topicals) were chosen to represent a broad sample in the United States. Of the products tested (full spectrum, n = 84; broad spectrum, n = 28; CBD isolate, n = 37), 26% did not meet the definition for product type claimed on the packaging. The majority of products (74%) deviated from their label claim of CBD potency by at least 10%. Heavy metals were detected 52 times across 44 of the 202 products tested, with lead being the most prevalent heavy metal. Residual solvents were detected 446 times across 181 of 202 products, with the highest concentrations reported for hexane, m/p-xylene, methanol, and o-xylene. Of 232 pesticides tested, 26 were found 55 times across 30 products. A total of 3% of heavy metals, 1% of residual solvents, and 1% of pesticides violated >1 regulatory threshold. Discussion: This study demonstrated that the majority of commercially available CBD products tested within the current study are inaccurately labeled. Heavy metals, residual solvents, and pesticides were found in several products, some of which violated regulatory thresholds. Thus, uniform compliance with CBD quality control measures is lacking and raises consumer protection concerns. Improved regulatory oversight of this industry is recommended.

Regression Analysis on California Bearing Ratio of Selected Soft Soils in Osun State for Pavement Construction

This paper presents a regression analysis on the California Bearing Ratio (CBR) of selected soft soils in Osun State for pavement construction. The lateritic soil used, obtained along Osogbo-Ikirun road, Osogbo-Ilesha road, and West By-Pass Okebale in Osogbo, Osun State, is labeled as locations P, Q, and R, respectively, for easy identification. Geotechnical tests were carried out in line with British Standard (1990), encompassing parameters such as moisture content, specific gravity, particle size analysis, Atterberg limits, Compaction, and California Bearing Ratio. A correlation relationship between CBR and LL, PL, PI, OMC, and MDD was developed using multiple linear regression analysis. Standard Minitab 13 and Microsoft Excel 2013 software packages were utilized for the analysis. The comparison between experimental and predicted CBR values from the derived model yielded R² values of 1, 1, and 0.9741 for locations P, Q, and R, respectively. The analysis underscores that geotechnical properties, including percentage fines for Osogbo-Ikirun road, optimum moisture content for Osogbo-Ilesha road, and specific gravity for West By-Pass soils, can be employed to reliably predict CBR values. The regression analysis indicates a robust quality control measure for the variables PF, OMC, and SG during field compaction. The inclusion of these variables into a comprehensive quality control and specification framework is recommended to enhance the longevity and durability of road pavements.

Causal relationship between atrial fibrillation/warfarin and cutaneous melanoma: a two-sample Mendelian randomization study.

In recent years, the relationship between malignant tumors and atrial fibrillation has attracted more and more attention. Atrial fibrillation can also cause a series of adverse events, such as the risk of thromboembolism. Also, Warfarin is often used here. But, the relationship between cutaneous melanoma and atrial fibrillation, and between cutaneous melanoma and warfarin is still unclear. Therefore, we used a two-sample Mendelian randomization to assess the causal relationship between atrial fibrillation/warfarin and cutaneous melanoma (cM). Firstly, atrial fibrillation (ukb-b-11550; nCase = 3,518, nControl = 459,415) and warfarin (ukb-b-13248; nCase = 4,623, nControl = 458,310) as exposures, with genome-wide association studies (GWAS) data from the United Kingdom Biobank. And cM (ieu-b-4969; nCase = 3,751, nControl = 372,016) as outcome, with GWAS data from the IEU Open GWAS project. Subsequently, single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were filtered from GWAS studies using quality control measures. In addition, two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis was performed to explore the causal relationship between atrial fibrillation or warfarin and cM and used inverse variance weighting (IVW) as the primary analytical method. Finally, relevant heterogeneity and sensitivity analysis were performed to ensure the accuracy of the results. A causal relationship between atrial fibrillation and cutaneous melanoma was observed, and between warfarin and cutaneous melanoma. The atrial fibrillation may play a causal role in the development of cutaneous melanoma, but the mechanism and the causal relationship between warfarin and cutaneous melanoma needs to be further elucidated.

Predictive Behaviour from Finite Element Analysis on PVC-Ducted Reinforced Concrete Column

This research investigated the behaviour of square reinforced concrete columns with embedded PVC pipes, aiming to comprehensively analyze their performance. The study addressed the lack of significant research on the contributions and effects of embedded PVC pipes on structural performance compared to hollow columns. The objectives of the study sought to evaluate the contributions and effects of embedded PVC pipes on the structural performance of columns under loading conditions, determine how the presence of PVC pipes influenced the columns' ability to deform and dissipate energy, and identify the optimal size of PVC pipes to enhance column performance while maintaining stability and safety. Numerical analysis using ABAQUS CEA 2020 software was employed to simulate the behavior of reinforced concrete columns with embedded PVC pipes. The computational model used the same cross-sections with varying diameters of PVC pipes (50mm, 75mm and 100mm). The analysis focused on assessing load-bearing capacities, deformation characteristics, and energy dissipation patterns under axial vertical displacement loading scenario. Findings indicated that PVC-embedded columns exhibit, on average, approximately 0.5% higher load-bearing capacities than Perforated columns. With a composite average of 0.00543 for plastic strains (LE) in PVC-Embedded columns compared to 0.00673 in Perforated columns, a composite average of 5.87E-03 for Equivalent Plastic Strains (PEEQ) in PVC-Embedded columns compared to 7.41E-03 in Perforated columns, and a composite average of 0.0091 for Magnetic Potential Energy (PEMag) in PVC-Embedded columns compared to 0.012 in Perforated columns, collectively suggested that PVC pipes positively impact controlled deformation and energy dissipation. The observed trend is particularly evident in specific instances, with PVC-Embedded-50mm exhibiting a marginal load-bearing increase of approximately 0.2%, PVC-Embedded-75mm indicating an improvement of about 0.5%, and PVC-Embedded-100mm manifesting a load-bearing capacity increase of roughly 0.7%. Overall, these findings highlight that smaller sizes of embedded PVC pipes result in better load-bearing performance. The study recommended meticulous attention to material composition and structural design during PVC-embedded column implementation, careful selection of PVC pipe sizes based on structural requirements and project specifications, further research on dynamic loading conditions to comprehensively understand column behavior, and implementation of stringent quality control measures during manufacturing and construction processes.

A fuzzy Bayesian network risk assessment model for analyzing the causes of slow-down processes in two-stroke ship main engines

ABSTRACT This paper presents a risk assessment approach for analyzing the causes of malfunction-related main engine slowdowns. A fuzzy Bayesian Network-based methodology is used to assess the factors contributing to the engine’s slow-down processes. The model addresses the complexity and uncertainty inherent in maritime operations with fuzzy sets where numerous interrelated factors can affect engine performance, and the Bayesian network to capture probabilistic dependencies. It considers various potential causes of the slow-down of ship engines that the manufacturer provides. Results demonstrate the model's ability to identify the influential factors leading to engine slow-down events and quantify the overall risk. Integrating fuzzy logic and Bayesian Networks comprehensively assesses relevant risk factors. It enables maritime stakeholders to manage engine performance and improves operational safety proactively. Findings can inform decision-makers, enabling the implementation of targeted maintenance strategies, fuel quality control measures, and crew training programs in the maritime industry.

A dataset of 1 km grid drainage density in China (2019)

Drainage density is an outcome of the combined influence of watershed landform, climate, soil, and vegetation. As a comprehensive characterization index, the measurement and monitoring of drainage density is of great significance to environmental protection and water resources allocation in regional watersheds. This paper uses river water surface vector data from the third National Land Survey, extracting the river center line. Then, the kilometer grid network production software is employed to generate the dataset of 1 km grid drainage density in China. Rigorous quality control and quality inspection measures throughout all stages of data processing have been implemented, including river surface vector extraction, river skeleton line extraction, and kilometer grid density calculation, to ensure the correctness, integrity and consistency of the data. This dataset can be used for national and regional hydrogeological analysis, soil erosion estimation, planning and layout of basic monitoring station network, etc.

First implementation of quality control procedures on selected X-ray machines in South of Benin

Abstract Introduction: The use of X-ray equipment for medical diagnostic radiography procedures has increased due to advances and complexity of radiological procedures. Achieving good image quality while keeping exposure of workers, public and patient exposure to an acceptable level has become a prerequisite for the radiology department in order to comply with best international practices. The aim of this study was to undertake quality control measurement of seven (7) diagnostic radiography equipment in the south of Benin, the first of its kind. Material and methods: Multifunction detector (Piranha) and beam alignment test tool were used to perform quality control tests on seven (7) X-ray units. The method used as well as the interpretation of the results was based on the American Association of Physicists in Medicine (AAPM), United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Healing Arts Radiation Protection (HARP), Institute of Physics and Engineering in Medicine (IPEM), International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) and Canadian Safety code 35 (S.C 35) recommendations. Results: The quality control results showed that all X-ray equipment investigated were within standard limits for accuracy of exposure time below 10 ms; reproducibility of kVp, exposure time and dose output; specific dose-kVp2 linearity; and specific dose-mAs linearity. Five (5) out of seven (7) diagnostic X-ray machines passed quality control tests such as X-ray beam alignment, exposure time above 10 ms and kVp accuracy. One (1) X-ray machine failed the quality control test of beam filtration at 70 kVp and above. Conclusions: The findings of this study have provided baseline data for other radiology departments to embark on similar QA/QC activities, and also explore options for optimization of patient dose. However, there is a need to extend the study to cover more diagnostic X-ray machines throughout the country. It is anticipated that this would ultimately assist in improving radiation protection and safety during medical diagnostic radiological procedures.

Isolation and Characterization of Bacterial Contaminants from Bone Marrow-Derived Mesenchymal Stem Cell Cultures

This study aimed to assess and manage bacterial contamination in multiple batches of mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) cultures derived from rabbit bone marrow. Routine visual inspection and microscopic examination were employed for the detection of the contaminated cultures. The contaminated cultures were inoculated on Nutrient agar and multiple isolated colonies were subjected to Gram staining and biochemical characterization. Further, molecular identification of the bacterial isolates was performed using polymerase chain reaction. The determination of antibiotic susceptibility patterns was conducted using the Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion method. Among the 351 mesenchymal stem cell culture (SCC) flasks monitored, only 1.42% were found to be contaminated. Based on the phenotypic and biochemical characterization, the major bacterial contaminants were identified as Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus spp., and Escherichia coli infiltrating during various stages of cell processing. Antibiotic susceptibility patterns revealed varying responses among isolates, crucial for effective antimicrobial strategies and maintaining aseptic conditions in SCCs. The study emphasizes the importance of regular monitoring to maintain sterile environments, validate culture quality, and uphold safety standards. The findings indicate the need to establish stringent quality control measures, crucial for the successful translation of MSC research into clinical applications. The research advocates for continuous monitoring, adherence to SOPs, and further investigations into preventive strategies for ensuring the safety and efficacy of MSC-based therapies.

Analyzing Production, Productivity, and Export Performance of Key Spices in India

To bolster economic growth in agriculture, there must be a concerted effort to increase production and achieve a balance in trade through exports and imports. India, in its global competition, excels in exporting significant spices and select horticultural products, thereby driving economic growth, aided by various governmental initiatives aimed at supporting farmers. This study aims to analyze the Growth Rate and Instability in Area, Production, and Productivity of major spices, as well as examine the export trends of these spices from India over a decade, from 2010 to 2020.Utilizing statistical tools such as Compound Annual Growth Rate Analysis (CAGR) and Instability Rate (IR), the study evaluates secondary data sourced from the Spice Board of India’s annual reports spanning the years 2010-2011 to 2019-2020. The analysis provides insights into the compound annual growth rate and instability concerning the selected spices in terms of area, production, productivity, and export performance. Key findings shed light on India’s position in the global spice market and reveal the trajectory of spice growth compared to the preceding decade (2001-2010). A critical concern for sustaining export market viability lies in enhancing productivity while maintaining product quality. Recommendations include cultivating high-quality products, stringent quality control measures, staying abreast of global market trends, implementing adequate storage protocols, ensuring proper harvesting practices, and maintaining environmental and personal hygiene. Furthermore, the study suggests introducing agricultural schemes to support spice cultivation, thereby boosting production, productivity, and ultimately impacting the Indian economy positively. These efforts aim to foster sustainable growth and competitiveness in the global spice market while ensuring the prosperity of Indian farmers and the agricultural sector.

Clinical laboratory strategies for managing pandemic outbreaks

This review article comprehensively examines clinical laboratory strategies for managing pandemic outbreaks, with a particular focus on lessons learned from the COVID-19 pandemic. Drawing upon an extensive analysis of existing literature from databases such as PubMed, Web of Science, and Cochrane, as well as manual searches on Google Scholar, the study aims to provide insights into key aspects of pandemic preparedness and response. The literature review encompasses diverse combinations of medical terminology, emphasizing the role and response of clinical laboratories during pandemics. The primary focus areas include rapid test development and deployment, increased testing capacity, sample collection, and transportation protocols, data management, personnel safety, resource allocation, adaptability, and quality control measures. The inclusion of articles in this study adheres to rigorous criteria, ensuring a thorough and robust review process. The findings highlight the critical importance of rapid and accurate diagnostic testing, especially in the early stages of a pandemic, to facilitate timely interventions and containment. Efficient sample collection and transportation systems are crucial for maintaining the integrity of specimens, while advanced data management and reporting systems contribute to informed decision-making. Adaptability and flexibility are identified as indispensable traits for navigating the dynamic challenges of a pandemic, and stringent quality control measures are foundational for upholding the accuracy of diagnostic testing. The review underscores the collaborative efforts needed among clinical laboratories, public health agencies, and research institutions to strengthen global pandemic preparedness and response strategies.