Equipment Software Research Articles

Recent advances in utilizing surface‐features of naturally derived nanocellulose and nanochitin for self‐cleaning and purifying applications

AbstractRecent advancements in the utilization of naturally derived nanocellulose and nanochitin/chitosan have opened new avenues for self‐cleaning and purification applications to address environmental challenges. This review highlights the unique structural properties of bio‐based nanofibers, which are typically rich in hydroxyl groups that enhance their functionality in various industrial sectors. Through appropriate chemical modification, they can perform specific functions facilitated by carboxylic acids or amine groups. We explored the mechanisms by which these materials facilitate oil/water separation, ultrafiltration, and self‐cleaning processes, including the incorporation of inorganic nanoparticles, such as TiO2, to improve hydrophilicity and oleophobicity. Furthermore, this review discusses innovative fabrication techniques, such as spray‐assisted layer‐by‐layer assembly, which enhance the performance of nanofiber‐based coatings. We examined the potential of these materials for diverse applications, including food packaging, wastewater treatment, and personal protective equipment, emphasizing their role in promoting sustainable industrial practices. As the global emphasis on eco‐friendly solutions intensifies, continued research and development of nanocellulose and nanochitin is expected to drive significant advancements in materials science, paving the way for greener technologies.

Effect of heat stress, determination of temperature-humidity index

Relevance. Increased values of temperature and relative humidity of the external environment lead to negative consequences for the animal body, forcing the thermoregulation processes to be turned on. These mechanisms allow the animal organism to adapt to new environmental conditions at the expense of productivity. In these cases heat stress is observed. It is established that its manifestation is observed after 17 hours and there is a possible decrease in productivity by 35–40%. To identify the effect of heat stress, accurate determination of temperature-humidity index (THI) is necessary.Methods. The materials and methods contain the most common formulas for determining the temperature and humidity index. The equipment and software package used for the research are presented.Results. A graph of the results of South Korean studies is presented to compare the effects of heat stress on productivity. The results and discussions display a modernized formula for determining the heat stress index and figures showing the level of heat stress at different temperature and relative humidity levels.

Analysis Clarifies Failures of Gas Lift Valves in Subsea Wells

_ This article, written by JPT Technology Editor Chris Carpenter, contains highlights of paper SPE 215010, “Failure Analyses of Gas Lift Valves That Caused Improper Tubing/Annular Communication in Subsea Wells,” by Sebastião T.X. Bastos, Galileu P.H. Oliveira, and Tatiana Sanomya, Petrobras, et al. The paper has not been peer reviewed. _ This work presents the results of several failure analyses of gas lift valves (GLVs) retrieved from the operator’s subsea wells. These valves were unable to prevent backflow from tubing to annulus, thereby compromising well integrity. These investigations allow a more-precise diagnosis of GLV failures that tends to reduce the risk of problem recurrence and can guide the correction of fragilities in current designs. They also can contribute to better planning and definitions in future well completions, resulting in increased reliability for this method of artificial lift. Failure-Analysis Procedure Usually, GLV failures are detected in tubing-integrity tests. Every time a leak rate above the limits for surface-controlled subsurface safety valves is registered in such an integrity test, a procedure is performed to try to restore the sealing capacity of the GLV by flushing the valve with diesel. Then, another tubing integrity test is performed. When removing a supposedly failed GLV from a well, special care must be taken at the rig to preserve the equipment, retaining its condition inside the well as much as possible. For this reason, the following recommendations are prescribed: - The GLV, and any material adhered to any part of its body, must not be washed. - If parts of the valve, debris, or any material adhered to the valve detach from its body, they shall be collected, placed inside clean plastic bags, and shipped along with the valve for failure analysis. - Equipment packaging requires placement in a proper box for transportation after bubble-wrapping the valve’s body and detached parts. - Equipment storage and transportation shall preserve its original conditions. - Mechanical shocks must be avoided. The failure analysis itself occurs at the valve’s manufacturing shop and must be witnessed by at least two specialists from the operator. A database on GLV failures is kept and provides statistical data and general information on these incidents. This procedure constantly has been subject to changes as new lessons learned point to the incorporation of improvements. For instance, the requisite for not cleaning the GLV at the rig came after observing that deposits could have been removed in the process. Also, more recently, some questions have been raised regarding the execution of the leakage test at the beginning of the inspection at the shop, because such tests could interfere with the position of the GLV’s internals or displace or disarray any deposited material. Thus, this step has been discontinued unless a good reason exists to suppose that the valve internal seals are functional. Failure-Analysis Excerpts The complete paper presents seven cases of failure analysis (four are included in this synopsis) for GLVs retrieved from subsea wells in recent years, accompanied by a short description of the facts of the case. Ordinary actions and events are omitted for brevity.

From Text to Hologram: Creation of High-Quality Holographic Stereograms Using Artificial Intelligence

This study simplified the creation of holographic stereograms using AI-generated prompts, overcoming the conventional need for complex equipment and professional software. AI enabled the generation of detailed perspective images suitable for various content styles. The generated images were interpolated, upscaled, and printed using a CHIMERA holoprinter to obtain high-quality holograms. This method significantly reduces the required time and expertise, thereby making holographic content creation accessible. This approach demonstrated that AI can effectively streamline the production of high-fidelity holograms, suggesting exciting future advancements in holographic technology.

Teaching introductory biomechanics course in low resource environment

Biomechanics originates at the interface of engineering mechanics and biological science. Biomechanics is an essential course for students of various disciplines, such as sports medicine, kinesiology, exercise science, orthopedics, medical sciences, biomedical engineering, and biological sciences. An introductory biomechanics course involves concepts of biology, mathematics, and mechanics that students find difficult to understand. This results in incomplete and ineffective learning of biomechanical concepts. The professional competence of a biomechanics student significantly depends on learning outcomes. Designing and developing an effective instructional methodology for an introductory biomechanics course that can improve students’ learning outcomes is challenging. Teaching a biomechanics course in a low-resource environment lacking expensive biomechanics experiment equipment and commercial software is an additional challenge. Literature suggests that active learning instructional techniques can help overcome these challenges. The present study reviews active learning methods such as Experiential Learning, Problem-based Learning, Challenge-based Instructions, Just-in-Time Teaching, Game-based Learning, and Mobile Learning, which have the potential to enhance the learning outcomes of biomechanics students during an introductory biomechanics course. The present study also discusses the possibility and effectiveness of these pedagogical approaches while teaching an introductory biomechanics course in low-resource environments. A curriculum designed (lecture and laboratory modules) for effectively delivering biomechanics courses to students in low-resource environments has been suggested. This study also highlights open-source software packages and tools that are helpful for teaching and learning introductory biomechanics in low-resource settings.

Fault Detection Methods for Electric Power Steering System Using Hardware in the Loop Simulation

The development of the automotive industry is associated with the rapid advancement of onboard systems. In addition, intensive development in the electronics and control systems industry has resulted in a change in the approach to the issue of assistance systems in vehicles. Classic hydraulic systems have been almost completely replaced by modern electric power steering (EPS) systems, especially in citizen vehicles. This paper focuses on fault detection algorithms for EPS, along with the available tools to aid development and verification. The article discusses in detail the current state of knowledge in this area. The principle of operation of the EPS system and the influence of the structure of the mechanical system on its operation, in particular the characteristics of the ground–tire contact, are presented. Various error identification methods are presented, including those based mainly on a combination of tests of real objects as well as those combined with modern hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) equipment and virtual vehicle environment software, enabling the development of new diagnostic methods, enhancing the security, reliability, and energy control in the vehicle. A review of the literature indicates that although many algorithms which enable fault detection at an early stage are described, their potential for use in a vehicle is highly limited. The reason lies in simplifications, including models and the operating EPS temperature range. The most frequently used simplification of the model is its linearization, which significantly reduces the calculation time; however, this significantly reduces the accuracy of the model, especially in cases with a large range of system operation. The need for methods to detect incipient faults is important for the safety and reliability of the entire car, not only during regular use but also especially during life-saving evasive maneuvers.

Effects of semi‐rigid plastic tray geometry on quality characteristics of a retort food simulant

AbstractThe present study aims to investigate how the geometric shapes of semi‐rigid plastic trays impact the quality characteristics of a retort processed food simulant. Initially, oval, triangular, rectangular, and round‐shaped plastic trays with a tomato‐based food simulant were subjected to retorting at rotational speeds of 6 and 11 revolutions per minute (RPM), and various food quality attributes were assessed. At 6 RPM, triangle‐shaped and round‐shaped trays exhibited a significantly greater reduction (p < 0.05) in ascorbic acid (AA) content compared to oval or rectangular‐shaped trays. Furthermore, there were no significant differences (p > 0.05) in lycopene and hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF) content change from control among the different tray shapes at 6 RPM. However, hexanal content change was found to be greater in rectangular‐shaped trays than in oval‐shaped trays, while no significant difference was observed between triangular and round‐shaped trays. Both triangular and rectangular‐shaped trays showed a substantially greater (p < 0.05) total color difference (ΔE) compared to other shapes. This data suggests the presence of a temperature gradient in the food simulant influenced by the tray's shape. At 11 RPM, oval and round‐shaped trays showed a significant reduction in AA content, while rectangular‐shaped trays exhibited higher lycopene levels compared to oval and round trays. There was an increase in HMF response from control across all tray shapes; however, differentiation between shapes was not significant (p > 0.05), while both triangle and round‐shaped trays had elevated hexanal content as compared to oval‐shaped trays (p < 0.05). Oval, round, and triangle‐shaped trays all exhibited a greater ΔE than rectangular‐shaped trays. In summary, oval and round‐shaped trays exhibited a more pronounced change in AA content at 11 RPM, indicating a faster temperature equilibration. In contrast, triangle and rectangular‐shaped trays displayed elevated total color differences at 6 RPM, which may suggest the presence of a temperature gradient leading to uneven heating due to their respective shapes.Practical applicationsThis information would be applicable to new food products designed for thermal treatment in which the packaging shape could be manipulated to not only fit infrastructure requirements (packaging equipment, processing equipment, distribution devices) but also help support heat penetration at an optimal rate. Depending on product type and makeup, this approach may hold some value to the product developer whose product will be packaged in semi‐rigid plastic containers.

Information and Communication Technology Usage in School Management: A Case of Selected Hwange District Schools in Matabeleland North Province, Zimbabwe

Apart from the fundamental function of teaching and learning, schools also ensure the realisation of the institutions' aims and vision. This is possible through use of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) which has been identified as an essential global phenomenon for efficient and effective schools. Hence, the purpose of this study was to examine usage of ICT in school management in Hwange District. A qualitative approach driven by the interpretivism paradigm was adopted. A case study design focusing on selected schools was employed. Thematically analysed data were collected through semi-structured interviews and document analysis. Findings indicated that the selected school heads mainly used ICT platforms such as WhatsApp, emails and printed documents for communication. Parents, through School Development Committee, provided internet connectivity for easy communication while the school heads used their personal smart phones. The study found that school heads faced various hurdles in using ICT in their management duties. These challenges included lack of resources, inadequate knowledge and skills to use ICT tools, work overload, inadequate funds to acquire ICT hardware and software equipment, lack of appropriate ICT infrastructure, limited internet access and sporadic power supplies. Despite the difficulties encountered, the study concluded that there were visible pockets of good practices in the use of ICT by selected school heads. The study recommended that the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education should capacitate school heads through ICT training. This will result in efficiency and effectiveness of school heads in execution of their management functions.

Isolation and Identification of Pathogenic Bacteria in Pasteurized Powdered Milk Sold in Ogun, Lagos and Oyo, Southwest, Nigeria

Study’s Novelty/Excerpt This study provides novel insights into the bacteriological quality of powdered milk sold in Ogun, Lagos, and Oyo, Southwest Nigeria, by isolating and identifying bacterial species through 16S rRNA gene sequencing and evaluating their antibiotic resistance profiles. The research highlights the detection of potentially harmful bacteria, including Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Bacillus cereus, indicating issues related to inadequate storage or sanitation practices in the milk supply chain. These findings underscore the importance of rigorous microbial monitoring and improved hygiene standards to ensure the safety and extended shelf life of powdered milk products. Full Abstract Milk is a nutritious beverage enjoyed by people of all ages, but it also provides an ideal environment for the growth of various microorganisms. This study aimed to isolate and identify the bacteriological quality of powdered milk sold in Ogun, Lagos, and Oyo, Southwest Nigeria. Three samples from each of five different brands were analyzed by homogenizing 1g of each milk sample with 10ml of nutritional broth, followed by overnight incubation at 37°C. Subsequently, the bacteria were plated on nutrient agar, Mac-Conkey, and EMB, with further characterization through partial sequencing of 16S rRNA genes. The detected species were then evaluated against antibiotics including Acyclovir, Cefotaxime, Augmentin, Cefuroxime, Gentamicin, Erythromycin, Ofloxacin, Nitrofurantoin, Ciprofloxacin, Nalidixic acid, and Azithromycin. The molecular testing revealed the presence of Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Bacillus cereus, Brevibacillus agri, Lysinibacillus sphaericus, and Bacillus thuringiensis as the identified bacterial species. Pseudomonas aeruginosa exhibited sensitivity to Gentamicin and Cefuroxime, with Nitrofurantoin showing the highest sensitivity at 80.0%. Brevibacillus agri (LATC3) demonstrated sensitivity to Cefuroxime and Gentamicin, with a higher sensitivity of 55.00% to Gentamicin. Bacillus cereus (LAKG2 and LAC2) showed higher responsiveness to Ceftriaxone compared to Ofloxacin, Cefotaxime, Augmentin, Acyclovir, and Levofloxacin. These findings indicate the presence of potentially harmful organisms in the microbial populations of pasteurized milk, suggesting inadequate storage practices or insufficient sanitation of facilities and equipment post-production and packaging. Therefore, monitoring the microbial quality of pasteurized milk is essential to ensure safety and extend its shelf life.

High heat resistance and neutron shielding performance epoxy with carborane hybridized crosslinked network

Epoxy resin has gained significant attention in aviation equipment, coatings and electronic packaging materials due to its exceptional processability, adhesion and mechanical properties. However, its thermal resistance property and glass transition temperature (Tg) were relatively lower than cyanate resin (CE), polyimides (PI) and phenolic resins (PF), which largely restricts its application range. In this work, we had developed a new structural heat-and-shielding integrated epoxy resin via the design of carboranes-epoxy network. Benefiting from the structure of carborane, the thermal residual weight of the obtained epoxy reached 64.57 %, with a carbon atom protection rate of 45.47 % in air atmosphere at 800 °C, showing better thermal resistance property than most CE, PI and PF. And the Tg of the new epoxy was not observed within the tested temperature range (50–250 °C). Additionally, the introduction of carborane structures enhances the neutron shielding performance of the material (38.46 % enhanced). The reinforcement mechanisms of these above properties are systematically investigated. It's excepted that our work could provide some ideas to prepare structural -functional integrated epoxy and promote the development of carborane related materials.

Penentuan Setting Optimal Mesin Injection Moulding Menggunakan Metode Response Surface

PT. Medion Farma Jaya is a company that produces livestock equipment, parts, and plastic packaging. One of the products produced by PT. Medion Farma Jaya is a 5-CC measuring spoon. This mass production process is based on what the company needs to package it with other products, or that can be from customer orders. This research is focused on the 5 CC measuring spoon product (SEN5CC) because, according to the company's 2021 historical data, there is a large percentage of rejected or defective products. Because of these problems, things can be done. The effect on the response to defective products is the setting of the injection Moulding machine by trial and error. Therefore, this research aims to find optimal settings for the machine for injection molding so that it can improve the quality of the product. To find out the optimal settings in this research, the response surface method was used. Based on this method is useful for getting the optimal level of factors or parameters that are significant to the response results. Based on research results, the factors used significantly influence optimal results, namely the melting temperature factor of 260 °C, holding pressure of 30 bar, and injection pressure of 62 bar. Therefore, the predicted response value was -25.1667, which meets the minimum target for the rejected product.

3D Pop-Ups: Omnidirectional image visual saliency prediction based on crowdsourced eye-tracking data in VR

The prediction of the visual saliency of omnidirectional images in VR is valuable for understanding visual behaviors. However, the equipment cost, software setups, hardware operation, and other constraints in acquiring eye-tracking data of omnidirectional images for visual saliency prediction would lead to a low training efficiency and prediction performance. Therefore, this paper proposed a crowdsourcing method based on recall fixations, which was used to collect and construct an omnidirectional image with eye-tracking dataset called CrowdSourcing360, which contained 16,200 pieces of data on 180 images. Using this dataset, a visual saliency prediction model CSnet360 was trained. Experiments demonstrated that the visual saliency prediction performance of the CSnet360 outperformed most existing models even without using actual gaze fixations. Finally, a VR interior design assistance prototype system was built and the preliminary study results indicated that the system could help designers to improve the quality of their design solutions.

Parametric Production of Prostheses Using the Additive Polymer Manufacturing Technology Multi Jet Fusion.

This study aims to develop a procedure for the production of 3D-printed forearm prostheses (especially hard outer sockets). The production procedure is designed in the form of a parametric workflow (CAD model), which significantly speeds up the designing process of the prosthesis. This procedure is not fixedly dependent on the software (SW) equipment and is fully transferable into another SW environment. The use of these prostheses will significantly increase the comfort of their patients' lives. It is possible to produce prostheses faster and in larger amounts and variants by the usage of additive technology. The input for the own production of the prosthesis is a model of the internal soft socket of the patient. This soft socket (soft bed) is made by a qualified prosthetist. A 3D-scanned CAD model is obtained afterward using the scanning method by an automatic laser projector. An editable, parametric external socket (modifiable in any CAD format) is generated from the obtained 3D scan using a special algorithmic model. This socket, after the necessary individual modifications, is transferred to 3D printing technology and produced using powder technology Multi Jet Fusion (HP MJF). The result of the designed and tested procedure is a quickly editable 3D-printed outer socket (main part of prosthesis), which is able to fully replace the current long-fiber composite solution. Production of current solutions is relatively time-consuming, and only one piece is produced in a given time. The newly designed technology eliminates this. This study summarized the possibilities of speeding up the production of forearm prostheses (but not only these) by creating a parametric CAD model that is applicable to different patients.

Circularity of Polymers Used in Hospitals: Current Status, Challenges, and Future Solutions

AbstractPolymers are applied extensively in the healthcare sector and enable a variety of different applications. In addition to packaging and personal protective equipment, a large number of medical devices are also coated with or consist of polymers. Today's medicine is therefore inconceivable without these materials. However, the huge challenge is to design these polymers more sustainable and to find new possibilities for the future of medicine with polymers. This study therefore highlights potential ways, in how polymers applied in the healthcare sector and in particular in hospitals can be utilized in a circular manner, but also indicates what risks and challenges this entails.

Determine the location of acoustic emission source on wood surface by using a wavelet-energy attenuation method

ABSTRACT To determine the location of wood damage and fracture, an acoustic emission source localization method based on wavelet-energy attenuation law was proposed. High-speed acquisition equipment and LabVIEW software were used to design a three-channel AE signal acquisition system. The wavelet transform is used to decompose the original signals into five frequency levels, and the second, third, and fourth level were selected for reconstruction of the acoustic emission signal. Finally, the reconstructed signals was used to determine the location of the acoustic emission source in accordance with the energy attenuation law. The results indicated that when the distance between the three sensors were 100 and 200 mm, the average location error obtained using the original signals in accordance with the energy attenuation law was 12.6 and 18.4 mm, respectively. However, the average location error obtained using the reconstructed signals in accordance with the energy attenuation law was 2.2 and 6.9 mm, respectively. These results reveal that the proposed method can achieve high-precision localization of acoustic emission source. This research enrich and expand the content of AE technology and wooden building research, provide new ideas and methods for non-destructive testing of similar structures, and promote research progress in related fields..

Integrating Virtual Tools Into the Face-To-Face Teaching of Undergraduate Analytical Chemistry

At the National University of Luján, traditional classroom-based instruction characterized the analytical chemistry courses. However, in response to evolving educational needs, a transition to hybrid education combining virtual and face-to-face activities is occurring. In this context, some questions arise: Can all face-to-face activities be replaced by virtual activities? What benefits does the inclusion of virtual activities bring to the curriculum? Reflecting on the experiences gained during the virtual instruction period that occurred due to the pandemic, the teaching group recognized the value of integrating virtual and face-to-face components. In a comparative assessment of teaching tools, the consensus emerged that a blended approach is crucial for effective analytical chemistry education in the current educational landscape. The findings indicated that, for theoretical lessons, a hybrid approach with face-to-face sessions complemented by asynchronous virtual tools proved to be advantageous. This allowed students the flexibility to review lessons at their convenience. Regarding bench work, a preference for face-to-face instruction was noted, as it facilitated hands-on experience in laboratories with real equipment and samples. In addition, it was found that the simulation software for gas and liquid chromatography equipment allowed the incorporation of valuable experiences for the study of both methodologies without extending the time required to carry out the practical work or requiring new inputs.

Synthesis of Polystyrene Fiber Membranes Prepared by Electrospinning: Effect of AgNO3 on the Microstructure

<p>Polystyrene (PS) is commonly employed in insulation, packaging, filters, and medical equipment, with recent studies exploring its potential in fiber membrane production. The electrospinning technique is discussed to synthesize PS fiber membranes with high porosity and controllable diameter. Additionally, incorporating silver nitrate into PS composite fibers is explored for enhanced functionalities such as catalytic activity, high electrical conductivity, and antibacterial activity. However, PS composite fiber membranes with silver nitrate (AgNO<sub>3</sub>) metal variations are rarely observed. This research aims to modify the microstructure of PS fiber membranes produced using electrospinning by adding silver nitrate (AgNO<sub>3</sub>) with varying concentrations. PS-Ag fiber membranes are produced using N,N-dimethylformamide (DMF) solvent, which serves as a solvent and a reducing agent for Ag. The results show that the effect of Ag affected the diameter of the PS-Ag fiber membrane, with an average diameter of around 3.67 - 6.93 micrometers. Degradation occurred in these samples at a strong broadening peak near ~1300 cm<sup>-1</sup> until ~1600 cm<sup>-1</sup> from the Raman results. The FTIR results show that the wavelength of ~3500 cm<sup>-1</sup> indicated the presence of OH. The presence of OH indicates that the PS-Ag fiber membrane has the potential for water filtration application</p>

Analisis Risiko Operasional Pada Proses Pembuatan Kerupuk Udang Sanah Kabupaten Tanjung Jabung Barat

The importance of knowledge about operational risks for umkm partners in order to be able to control or handle the risks that must be handled and be able to solve the problems being faced, so this research aims (1) to find out the identification of operational risks in the process of making Sanah shrimp crackers in West Tanjung Jabung district ( 2) to find out the operational risk analysis of the process of making Sanah shrimp crackers in West Tanjung Jabung district, (3) to find out the efforts made by umkm actors to overcome operational risks. This research uses qualitative methods in this research using data sources obtained from the owner of the Sanah shrimp cracker business and the Sanah shrimp cracker employees. The results of this research are: In identifying operational risks, there are four types of risks as follows: human resource risks include risks of events such as unsuccessful steaming, unsuccessful cutting of crackers, long frying of crackers, failed packaging and inadequate training. Technological risks include inappropriate machines and packaging equipment that does not function properly. As well as process risks, there are risks from raw materials that do not match the dosage. And external risks include risks such as unstable raw materials and uncertain weather factors. The risk analysis that occurs in Sanah shrimp crackers has a risk level of high, medium and low. As for the aspects included in the high category, there are three risks, namely inadequate training, inappropriate packaging equipment and raw materials that do not match the measurements. And there are also medium level operational risks including unsuccessful steaming, frying for too long, inappropriate machines, unstable raw materials, weather factors that result in long drying. And there are also two levels of low risk, namely cutting crackers, failed packaging. Efforts to overcome operational risks that occur in the Sanah shrimp cracker business include requiring or providing training to employees about managing shrimp crackers and employees also need to have self-awareness to be more skilled and more thorough.

Rekonstruksi bentuk lambung kapal dalam format tiga dimensi (3D) dengan teknik fotogrametri

Fishing boat has unique characteristics, such as seaworthiness, maneuvering, boat’s velocity, displacement, fishing gear layout, and catch storage facilities. With increasing development of photographic technology, photography is not merely an art but it has become a field of mathematics, making it a technique that can be integrated with software technology designed to produce digital data objects in the form of 3D images called Photogrammetric technique. This study is to obtain the reconstruction of the boat's hull based on the Photogrammetric software, to determine the effect of photography to obtain a 3D image, and to know the weakness and strength of 3D reconstruction of the boat’s hull. The images in this study were obtained using a POCO F3 smartphone camera integrated with the PIX4Dcatch application and analyzed with Agisoft Metashape Professional (Trial Version). From this research, we concluded that 1) the reconstruction of the boat hull can be obtained by using Photogrammetric techniques in the PIX4Dcatch application followed by the Agisoft Metashape Professional (Trial Ver.) software analysis; 2). With photographic equipment and several data processing software, the boat’s shape could be produced in 3D images, and 3). There are several advantages in reconstructing the ship's hull with the Photogrammetric technique, namely producing the ship's reconstruction of 3D images, obtaining the principal dimensions of the boat, such as the area and volume of the boat, that could be as the basic data for boat resistance and ship stability calculation, and the work could be done by one person only.

Logistics Management Practices and Performance of Government-Owned Sugar Companies In Kenya.

In the recent past, the Kenyan government has not been able to ensure the provision of affordable food. Structural bottlenecks have made it difficult for food produced in the country to reach its intended recipients. This study investigated the effect of logistics management practices on performance of government owned sugar companies in Kenya. It was premised on the proposition that in order to increase competitiveness of government-owned sugar companies, it is important to have a sound understanding of their logistics management practices. Underpinned by resource-based view theory, theory of constraints, systems theory and transaction cost theory, this study provided insights into managing logistics to enhance performance within the context of government owned sugar companies in Kenya. Four specific objectives emanated from this main objective: one, to determine the extent to which inventory management affects performance, two, to assess how order management affects performance, three, to establish how transportation management affects performance, four to determine the extent to which packaging management practices affects performance. Out of these objectives, hypotheses were stated for testing. Through structured questionnaires, data was obtained from 5 government-owned sugar companies. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to analyze the data and test hypotheses of the relationships stated earlier. The target sample population of the study was 256 supply chain personnel from five Government-owned sugar Companies in Kenya. Data analysis was done using SPSS version 29 using both descriptive and inferential analysis. The study finding revealed that inventory, order, transport, and packaging management significantly influence government-owned sugar manufacturing firms' performance in Kenya, explaining 73.9% of performance variation. ANOVA results confirmed the model's statistical significance (p < 0.05). Further analysis demonstrated positive relationships between inventory, order, transport, and packaging management practices and firm performance. The study suggests government and policymakers allocate resources for collaborative research to enhance state-owned sugar manufacturing firms' logistics management. Researchers should focus on cost reduction, quality control, and technology adoption. Sugar firms need to invest in order processing systems, equipment, and sustainable packaging. Logistics service providers should adopt advanced technologies and collaborate with sugar firms. Further studies should explore additional logistics practices and cross-industry collaborations.