Acceptable Quality Research Articles

Critical success factors for ergonomics programs and their relationship to benefits of health and safety in Mexico’s manufacturing industries

This research determines the critical factors for implementing ergonomics programs related to health and safety benefits in the manufacturing industries of Ciudad Juarez, Mexico, from the middle/upper management perspective. The sample was non-probabilistically selected for convenience, comprising individuals in middle and senior management positions. An original questionnaire containing 105 items measuring five latent variables was developed, reviewed, and validated for data collection. The sample size totalled 206 participants. Structural equation models using partial least squares (PLS) were employed to analyse interrelationships between variables. This research demonstrated acceptable reliability and quality indices. Management commitment emerged as the most significant factor, exerting the highest direct, indirect, and total effects on the work environment and prevention activities, significantly enhancing health and safety benefits. Consequently, manufacturing companies in Juarez City must strive to improve management commitment in the working environment and prevention activities since both strategies can increase employee health and safety benefits.

Citral-thymol based synergistic shellac coatings enhanced shelf life of Kinnow fruit stored under low temperature conditions

Microbial spoilage incurs the main cause of reduced shelf life of Kinnow during storage and transportation. This study aimed to evaluate the postharvest application of plant-derived citral and thymol-based shellac wax coatings on ‘Kinnow’ mandarin under controlled conditions (5–7 °C, 90–95 % relative humidity (RH)) over a 75-day storage period. The fruit were coated with shellac wax (SH) supplemented with citral (1.0 %, CSH), thymol (1.0 %, TSH) and citral-thymol combined formulation (1.0 %, CTSH (1:1)). Rheology studies revealed that the Herschel–Bulkley model was the best fit for all coating solutions, ensuring desirable spreadability and adhesion. The CTSH-coating outperformed all other treatments by reducing mean spoilage to 0.46% as compared to commercial shellac (6.71%) over a period of 75 days under cold store conditions. The treated fruit could control the physiological weight loss to 5.73 % as compared to commercial SH coatings (7.62 %) for 60 days. The study concluded that CTSH-coated Kinnow fruit can be stored up to 60 days under cold store conditions at 5–7 °C and 90–95 % RH with acceptable fruit quality (sensory score 7.83). The activities of cell wall degrading enzymes such as Pectin methylesterase (PME) and cellulase were also found to be retarded, contributing to prolonged shelf life. Therefore, these coatings may offer a green substitute to the synthetic analogues, with no health side effects for extending the postharvest shelf life of Kinnow up to 60 days under cold store conditions.

Assessment of suitability of the Dniester River's water for drinking water supply

The Dniester is a transboundary river between Ukraine and the Republic of Moldova. It is the second longest river in Ukraine and the ninth in Europe. From its source to a town of Staryi Sambir, the Dniester flows through the Carpathian Mountains, then across the flat territory of Ukraine and Moldova. The Dniester Basin extends across seven regions in southwestern Ukraine (Lviv, Ivano-Frankivsk, Ternopil, Khmelnytskyi, Vinnytsia, Chernivtsi and Odesa Regions). A small area of the river in its upper reaches is located in Poland. The basin's shape is a very elongated oval that is curved in the middle, about 700 km long with an average width of 120 km. As it flows into the Black Sea, the Dniester River forms the Dniester estuary in Odesa region (between Ovidiopol and Bilhorod-Dnistrovskyi districts). The estuary area of the Dniester River is a complex landscape system at the sea-river-land contact. Drinking water is an important factor determining a person's health. Due to the intensive development of industry, agriculture and utility services, the number of pollutants that enter the environment and worsen the quality of drinking water in Ukraine keeps increasing. This increases the risk of toxic and infectious diseases spread among the population that consumes such low-quality water. That is why solving the problem of drinking water monitoring and assessment of its quality is a pressing task requiring urgent action. The article examines the quality of water for drinking needs at the water intake site of the Dniester River, a town of Biliaivka, for 2018-2022. Water quality assessment was carried out according to DSTU 4808: 2007 based on average and worst values. The methodology covers 80 indicators and, in accordance with sanitary legislation, is divided into seven separate groups (blocks). According to hygienic standards, the quality of river water is considered suitable for use if it belongs to quality classes 1-3. In this research, the analysis was carried out according to 23 indicators included in three groups, so the assessment is considered as tentative: Group I - organoleptic indicators (chromaticity, turbidity); Group II - general sanitary indicators (dry residue (mineralization), sulfates, chlorides, magnesium, alkalinity, hydrogen index, ammonium nitrogen, nitrite nitrogen, nitrate nitrogen, phosphate phosphorus, dissolved oxygen, bichromate oxidation (COD), BSK5); Group VII – toxicological parameters (total iron, manganese, chromium (VI), zinc, petroleum products, synthetic surface active agents (surfactants), volatile phenols). It was determined that, according to the average values, the water quality of the Dniester at the water intake site is characterized as "good", which means it has clean water of acceptable quality. As for the worst indicators, the water was assessed as transitional in quality from "good" (clean) to "satisfactory" (slightly polluted).

Meta-analysis of bone mineral density in adults with phenylketonuria

BackgroundLifelong management of phenylketonuria (PKU) centers on medical nutrition therapy, including dietary phenylalanine (Phe) restriction in addition to Phe-free or low-Phe medical foods/protein substitutes. Studies have reported low bone mineral density (BMD) in mixed-age PKU populations, possibly related to long-term Phe restriction. Therefore, a meta-analysis investigating BMD specifically in adults with PKU was conducted.MethodsStudies reporting BMD-related outcomes were identified from a systematic literature review evaluating somatic comorbidities experienced by adults with PKU on a Phe-restricted diet (searched February 1, 2022, updated November 1, 2023). Risk of study bias was assessed (Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines Network checklists). The primary outcome of the meta-analysis was pooled mean BMD Z-scores of different bones. Secondary outcomes were the prevalence of low BMD Z-scores at pre-specified thresholds. Subgroup analyses of mean BMD Z-scores (decade of study publication, controlled versus uncontrolled blood Phe levels, gender) were conducted.ResultsBMD-related data from 4097 individuals across 10 studies rated as at least acceptable quality were included. Mean BMD Z-scores were statistically significantly lower compared with an age-matched control or reference (non-PKU) population, across bones, but still within the expected range for age (> -2.0): lumbar spine (seven studies, n = 304), -0.63 (95% confidence interval (CI): -0.74, -0.52); femoral neck (four studies, n = 170), -0.74 (95% CI: -1.25, -0.22); radius (three studies, n = 114), -0.77 (95% CI: -1.21, -0.32); total body (four studies, n = 157), -0.61 (95% CI: -0.77, -0.45). The small number of observations in the subgroup analyses resulted in a high degree of uncertainty, limiting interpretation. Estimated prevalence of BMD Z-scores ≤ -2.0 was 8% (95% CI: 5%, 13%; four studies, n = 221) and < -1.0 was 42% (95% CI: 35%, 51%; five studies, n = 144).ConclusionsAdults with PKU had lower BMD Z-scores than the reference (non-PKU) population but < 1 in 10 were below the expected range for age. The low number of studies prevents identification of which population characteristics are most impacting BMD.This meta-analysis was supported by BioMarin Pharmaceutical Inc., Novato, CA and is registered with the Research Registry (reviewregistry1476).

Developing a Machine Learning 'Smart' Polymerase Chain Reaction Thermocycler Part 2: Putting the Theoretical Framework into Practice.

The introduction of PCR into forensic science and the rapid increases in the sensitivity, specificity and discrimination power of DNA profiling that followed have been fundamental in shaping the field of forensic biology. Despite these developments, the challenges associated with the DNA profiling of trace, inhibited and degraded samples remain. Thus, any improvement to the performance of sub-optimal samples in DNA profiling would be of great value to the forensic community. The potential exists to optimise the PCR performance of samples by altering the cycling conditions used. If the effects of changing cycling conditions upon the quality of a DNA profile can be well understood, then the PCR process can be manipulated to achieve a specific goal. This work is a proof-of-concept study for the development of a smart PCR system, the theoretical foundations of which are outlined in part 1 of this publication. The first steps needed to demonstrate the performance of our smart PCR goal involved the manual alteration of cycling conditions and assessment of the DNA profiles produced. In this study, the timing and temperature of the denaturation and annealing stages of the PCR were manually altered to achieve the goal of reducing PCR runtime while maintaining an acceptable quality and quantity of DNA product. A real-time feedback system was also trialled using an STR PCR and qPCR reaction mix, and the DNA profiles generated were compared to profiles produced using the standard STR PCR kits. The aim of this work was to leverage machine learning to enable real-time adjustments during a PCR, allowing optimisation of cycling conditions towards predefined user goals. A set of parameters was found that yielded similar results to the standard endpoint PCR methodology but was completed 30 min faster. The development of an intelligent system would have significant implications for the various biological disciplines that are reliant on PCR technology.

Serum Selenium Levels and Lipid Profile: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Observational Studies.

Selenium is a trace element with pivotal roles in metabolic processes. Studies suggested that selenium deficiency could lead to impaired lipid profiles. However, inconsistent results have been reported regarding the association between serum selenium concentrations and lipid profile (triglycerides, LDL, HDL, VLDL, and total cholesterol). Thus, we aimed to review the correlation between them. A systematic literature search was conducted in PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Scopus, and Google Scholar until 31 December 2023. The relevant correlation coefficients were used as desired effect sizes to assess the correlation between selenium level and lipid profile. Among 8291 records found in the primary search, 47 and 34 articles were included in the systematic review and meta-analysis, respectively. All included studies were observational investigations and had acceptable quality. Our results failed to reach strong evidence supporting the correlation between serum selenium level and lipid profiles, except for HDL, which showed a weak correlation among both adults (r = 0.1 [0.03:0.17]; I2 = 71%) and pediatrics (r = 0.08 [0.03:0.14]; I2 = 38%). Subgroup analyses based on gender did not reveal a significant or strong correlation with selenium levels (except for total cholesterol in males (r = 0.12 [0.01:0.22]; I2 = 52%)). The results did not change after the sensitivity analysis. Although some previous studies have suggested that selenium deficiency could lead to impaired lipid profile, the findings of this study indicate no strong correlation between serum selenium levels and lipid profile.

Closed reduction followed by percutaneous fixation of acute femoral neck fractures in young adults: a retrospective cohort study

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the surgical outcomes of femoral neck fractures (FNF) in young adults treated with a closed reduction technique as it pertains to reduction quality, rates of union and risk factors for complication. METHODS: Design: Retrospective cohort study with radiograph and electronic medical record review. Setting: Level 1 Swiss Trauma center. Patient Selection Criteria: Between 2012 and 2021, young adults with isolated FNF (AO/OTA 31-B1) treated with percutaneous screw fixation were selected. Exclusion criteria were open reduction technique, age over 65 or under 16, pathologic fractures, associated femoral head or shaft fractures. Outcome Measures and Comparisons: Primary outcome was quality of reduction, as assessed by three experienced trauma surgeons’ evaluation of, intraoperative and/or first postoperative radiographs using the overall impression, the Garden’s alignment index, and Lowell`s criteria. Additionally, clinical outcomes, conversion to arthroplasty and complications following closed reduction and fixation of femoral neck fractures was reviewed. RESULTS: A total of 54 patients with a median (IQR) age of 57.5 (48-60) years were included. Among them, 22 (41%) were female and 32 (59%) were male. The closed reduction technique demonstrated satisfactory reduction results in up to 87% of cases. Major complications occurred in 19%, with 17% requiring conversion to total hip arthroplasty. Unacceptable or borderline acceptable reduction quality correlated significantly with the need for later conversion (p=0.03). CONCLUSIONS: The study supported the use of the closed reduction technique for acute FNF in patients under 65, achieving satisfactory reduction results in up to 87% of cases with comparable complication rates to treatment of young femoral neck fractures with open reduction. Furthermore, it underscored the significance of the surgeon's overall impression of reduction quality, alongside the established reduction criteria, the Garden alignment index and Lowell’s criteria, in evaluating the quality of the reduction. Additionally, risk of conversion to total hip arthroplasty was associated with worse closed reduction quality. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Therapeutic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.

SELECTION OF POTENTIAL CHIPPING ADVANCED POTATO CLONES FOR THE PROCESSING INDUSTRY IN SOUTHERN AND EASTERN INDIA

A multi-location evaluation of 60 advanced processing clones was undertaken in the selected locations of south viz., Karnataka (Rabi and Kharif), Tamil Nadu (Kharif), Telangana (Rabi) and in Rabi crop season of West Bengal. Based on four-year trials, among advanced clones, viz., MP/12-126 consistently outperformed others during 2020-21, 2021-22 and 2022-23 in the Rabi season at different locations in Karnataka. However, MP/12-126 had almost similar yield but acceptable quality parameters as compared to controls in the Kharif seasons of Karnataka and Tamil Nadu. MP/14-171 was found to have higher yield and acceptable quality traits during 2020-21, 2021-22 in the rabi season of Karnataka and Kharif season of Tamil Nadu during 2023. During the rabi season of West Bengal (2020-21, 2022-23) and the rabi season of Karnataka (2022-23) advanced clone MP/15-698 had superior performance. MP/15-651 was found to be the most widely adapted clone as it has superior performance in all states either in Rabi/Kharif or both. Based on a four-year field trial at multiple locations (6 locations) and seasons (rabi and kharif), advanced clones namely MP/12-126, MP/14-171, MP/15-651 and MP/15-698 have the potential to provide a suitable alternative to the potato growers of south and eastern India as against the existing variety/varieties with acceptable chip colour, high dry matter (&gt;20%) and lesser total potato defects including higher process grade potato yield as compared to controls.

Improving sensory quality and properties of stirred high-protein yogurts with a rotor/stator device

This study investigated the impact of post-fermentation processing and fat content on the quality of stirred high-protein yogurts (6 wt% protein) during 13 weeks of storage. A rotor/stator device was used to apply two post-fermentation treatments (119W and 296W, 290 L-1h) to yogurts containing 0 or 3 wt % fat, while a control yogurt did not undergo post-fermentation processing. Sensory quality was analyzed by Quantitative descriptive analysis (QDA) and Quality control (QC). QC results showed significant effects of post-fermentation processing on appearance, consistency, and odor/flavor. Post-fermentation processing significantly reduced whey separation, stickiness, thickness, sticky mouthfeel and mealiness, and increased shininess and smooth mouthfeel according to QDA results. Confocal laser scanning microscopy and darkfield microscopy revealed larger protein aggregates in the control samples compared to the post-processed samples. The post-processed yogurts maintained acceptable quality after 13 weeks of storage, contrasting with the control samples that had unacceptable quality throughout the storage period.

Enhancing Public Healthcare Security: Integrating Cutting-Edge Technologies into Social Medical Systems

To reduce the negative effects of digitization, normative advice in international human rights legislation incorporates digital health into ethical and human rights frameworks. The use of digital health technology for universal health coverage (UHC) is acknowledged to have benefits, but its implementation must be based on respect for human rights, equity, and ethics, as well as upholding norms of acceptable quality, safety, and morality. The WHA acknowledged the necessity to use digital health technologies in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, but stressed that in doing so, they must "pay particular attention to digital inclusion, patient empowerment, data privacy and security, legal and ethical issues, and the protection of personal data." This paper's goal is to critically assess the proposed legislative framework and policy that regulate digital health technologies in India, as well as the implementation of digital health.

Efficient optimization of robust project scheduling for industry 4.0: A hybrid approach based on machine learning and meta-heuristic algorithms

This research contributes significantly to the domain of Industry 4.0 by offering a nuanced approach to the multi-objective optimization of the resource-constrained project scheduling problem (RCPSP) under uncertainty. Focused on the context of smart product platforming, this study introduces a novel methodology that not only considers traditional factors like time and cost but also incorporates quality and risk aspects, crucial for personalized product fulfillment. In this regard, a comprehensive four-objective mathematical model is proposed to minimize project completion time, total project costs, and project risks while simultaneously enhancing overall project quality. Real-world uncertainty is acknowledged through the incorporation of uncertain parameters for the time, risk, and quality associated with each project activity. To address this uncertainty, a robust optimization method is applied based on Bertsimas and Sim's approach. Moreover, to optimize the proposed model, the Hybrid Red Deer and Genetic Algorithm (HRDGA) is proposed, which is leveraging a machine learning approach for clustering solutions. The numerical results demonstrate that increasing the project budget by 30% leads to an upward trend in total project costs and a reduction in the minimum acceptable quality by 10%–30% results in a decreasing trend in the total project cost. This research emphasizes the adoption of Industry 4.0 enabling technology within the project scheduling platform, particularly highlighting its significance for personalized product fulfillment.

Strategies for improving expression of recombinant human chorionic gonadotropin in Chinese Hamster Ovary (CHO) cells

Optimizations of the gene expression cassette combined with the selection of an appropriate signal peptide are important factors that must be considered to enhance heterologous protein expression in Chinese Hamster Ovary (CHO) cells. In this study, we investigated the effectiveness of different signal peptides on the production of recombinant human chorionic gonadotropin (r-hCG) in CHO-K1 cells. Four optimized expression constructs containing four promising signal peptides were stably transfected into CHO-K1 cells. The generated CHO-K1 stable pool was then evaluated for r-hCG protein production. Interestingly, human serum albumin and human interleukin-2 signal peptides exhibited relatively greater extracellular secretion of the r-hCG with an average yield of (16.59 ± 0.02 μg/ml) and (14.80 ± 0.13 μg/ml) respectively compared to the native and murine IgGκ light chain signal peptides. The stably transfected CHO pool was further used as the cell substrate to develop an optimized upstream process followed by a downstream phase of the r-hCG. Finally, the biological activity of the purified r-hCG was assessed using in vitro bioassays. The combined data highlight that the choice of signal peptide can be imperative to ensure an optimal secretion of a recombinant protein in CHO cells. In addition, the stable pool technology was a viable approach for the production of biologically active r-hCG at a research scale with acceptable bioprocess performances and consistent product quality.

A small secret of big rheumatology

Current recommendations for RA treatment determine the need to reduce the dose and duration of glucocorticoid(GC) use. This is due to the wide spectrum and high frequency (up to 100%) of serious adverse events (AE) during GC treatment. However, in real practice GCs in RA are used very often (in Russia, Western Europe and the USA they are used in about 50% of patients), and often in long-term courses. This is explained by the fact that the combination of disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs), including biologics (bDMARDs) and Janus kinase inhibitors (JAK), with GCs allows to achieve faster improvement of patients’ condition and therefore is very “convenient” for many patients and physicians.However, it is very difficult to ensure dose reduction and (especially!) complete discontinuation of GC administration afterwards. Clinical and observational studies show that 30–40% of patients manage to discontinue the use of GCs during treatment with bDMARDs and JAK. In addition, discontinuation of GCs may significantly increase the risk of RA flare, even with complex pathogenetic therapy.Nevertheless, prolonged use of GCs, including low doses (less than 7.5 mg/day of prednisolone) should be considered as an indicator of the severity of the disease course and inadequacy of the current therapy. Therefore, we should strive for personalization of RA therapy, selection of DMARDs based on the assessment of the disease phenotype and predictors of response to treatment with different drugs, achieving the main goal of therapy – remission/low disease activity and achievement of acceptable quality of life, without the use of GCs.

PRODUCTION AND QUALITY OF Physalis peruviana FRUIT APPLYING DIFFERENT DOSES OF SIMPLE SUPERPHOSPHATE IN THE SOUTHERN REGION OF MINAS GERAIS, BRAZIL

The present study aimed to investigate and determine the most relevant fertilization levels of Simple Superphosphate to increase fruit production and improve fruit quality for fresh consumption. The experiment was conducted at the EPAMIG Experimental Field in Lambarí, Minas Gerais, from September 2021 to November 2022. Five fertilization levels were tested: 150 grams/plot, 300 grams/plot, 600 grams/plot, and 1200 grams/plot, along with a control group (no fertilization). A significant increase in fruit production was observed at the higher dose (1200 grams/plot) compared to the control, representing a 54.06% increase in fruit production. Additionally, the total fresh biomass production increased by 19.43%, the number of primary and secondary branches per plant increased by 48.99%, the branch length increased by 4.26%, and the canopy diameter increased by 6.83% when compared to the control. All these characteristics were significantly different at the 95% confidence level according to the Scott-Knott test. We concluded that 300 grams/plot was the best fertilization dose to achieve higher production and acceptable quality.

Advancing mHealth Research in Low-Resource Settings: Young Women's Insights and Implementation Challenges with Wearable Smartwatch Devices in Uganda.

In many regions globally, including low-resource settings, there is a growing trend towards using mHealth technology, such as wearable sensors, to enhance health behaviors and outcomes. However, adoption of such devices in research conducted in low-resource settings lags behind use in high-resource areas. Moreover, there is a scarcity of research that specifically examines the user experience, readiness for and challenges of integrating wearable sensors into health research and community interventions in low-resource settings specifically. This study summarizes the reactions and experiences of young women (N = 57), ages 18 to 24 years, living in poverty in Kampala, Uganda, who wore Garmin vívoactive 3 smartwatches for five days for a research project. Data collected from the Garmins included participant location, sleep, and heart rate. Through six focus group discussions, we gathered insights about the participants' experiences and perceptions of the wearable devices. Overall, the wearable devices were met with great interest and enthusiasm by participants. The findings were organized across 10 domains to highlight reactions and experiences pertaining to device settings, challenges encountered with the device, reports of discomfort/comfort, satisfaction, changes in daily activities, changes to sleep, speculative device usage, community reactions, community dynamics and curiosity, and general device comfort. The study sheds light on the introduction of new technology in a low-resource setting and also on the complex interplay between technology and culture in Kampala's slums. We also learned some insights into how wearable devices and perceptions may influence behaviors and social dynamics. These practical insights are shared to benefit future research and applications by health practitioners and clinicians to advance and enhance the implementation and effectiveness of wearable devices in similar contexts and populations. These insights and user experiences, if incorporated, may enhance device acceptance and data quality for those conducting research in similar settings or seeking to address population-specific needs and health issues.

Machine-learning-based sampling inspection under OQC capacity for real-time quality monitoring in the TFT-LCD industry

ABSTRACT In the thin film transistor-liquid crystal display (TFT-LCD) industry, the competition is fierce, and the external failure cost is high. To improve the quality of released products, sampling inspection under outgoing quality control (OQC) is conducted before products are released. Owing to the variety and complexity of inspection items, the task must be carried out manually while realising automation is difficult. Traditional random sampling inspection is limited by sampling quantity, manpower, and material resources. To effectively improve acceptable quality levels, this paper proposes a quality predictive monitoring framework tailored to the production and inspection characteristics of the TFT-LCD industry. This framework includes real-time automatic quality monitoring based on an optimal machine learning prediction model with two-phase feature creation, and it also addresses OQC inspection capacity constraints. Experimental results show the prediction performance based on proposed model is better than the traditional random sampling process. In practice, superior average outgoing quality improves by more than 70% at the same sampling level. In addition, the features of the process can be further controlled and managed based on the prediction model to monitor the key parameters in real time and respond to abnormalities quickly, thereby further improving the quality of released products.

Flowering Phenology and Evaluation of Pollination Techniques to Achieve Acceptable Fruit Quality of Red-fleshed Pitaya (Hylocereus polyrhizus) in Sabah, East Malaysia

As red-fleshed pitaya (Hylocereus polyrhizus) is not native to the tropical environment of the Malaysian state of Sabah, Borneo, little is known about its flowering phenology, pollination requirements, and potential pollinators, which has discouraged many farmers from growing this crop. Therefore, this study aimed to examine better pollination techniques to achieve acceptable fruit quality for red-fleshed pitaya production under local climatic conditions. For this purpose, stingless bees (Tetragonula laeviceps), self-pollination, natural pollination, and hand pollination were used. Pitayas were planted in the field from January 2018 to February 2022, and 40 flowers were observed to obtain data on flowering phenology and fruit quality. This study observed that anthesis of red-fleshed pitaya took about 24 hours in all treatments, depending on the local climate, starting at 6.30 p.m. and ending at 6.30 p.m. the next day. Besides self-pollination, the pitaya flowers were also successfully pollinated by natural, hand, and stingless bees. However, the fruits pollinated by stingless bees were the heaviest, longest, and thickest, indicating that the integration of pitaya cultivation and stingless bees is likely to improve the yield and quality of the fruits on the farm.

Abdominal MR Multitasking for radiotherapy treatment planning: A motion-resolved and multicontrast 3D imaging approach.

Radiotherapy treatment planning (RTP) using MR has been used increasingly for the abdominal site. Multiple contrast weightings and motion-resolved imaging are desired for accurate delineation of the target and various organs-at-risk and patient-tailored planning. Current MR protocols achieve these through multiple scans with distinct contrast and variable respiratory motion management strategies and acquisition parameters, leading to a complex and inaccurate planning process. This study presents a standalone MR Multitasking (MT)-based technique to produce volumetric, motion-resolved, multicontrast images for abdominal radiotherapy treatment planning. The MT technique resolves motion and provides a wide range of contrast weightings by repeating a magnetization-prepared (saturation recovery and T2 preparations) spoiled gradient-echo readout series and adopting the MT image reconstruction framework. The performance of the technique was assessed through digital phantom simulations and in vivo studies of both healthy volunteers and patients with liver tumors. In the digital phantom study, the MT technique presented structural details and motion in excellent agreement with the digital ground truth. The in vivo studies showed that the motion range was highly correlated (R2 = 0.82) between MT and 2D cine imaging. MT allowed for a flexible contrast-weighting selection for better visualization. Initial clinical testing with interobserver analysis demonstrated acceptable target delineation quality (Dice coefficient = 0.85 ± 0.05, Hausdorff distance = 3.3 ± 0.72 mm). The developed MT-based, abdomen-dedicated technique is capable of providing motion-resolved, multicontrast volumetric images in a single scan, which may facilitate abdominal radiotherapy treatment planning.

Quality of Electrocardiography Recorded with Consumer Smart Shirts.

Smart wearables support continuous monitoring of vital signs for early detection of deteriorating health. However, the devices and sensors require sufficient quality to produce meaningful signals, in particular, if data is acquired in motion. In this study, we equipped 48 subjects with smart shirts recording one-lead electrocardiography (ECG), thoracic and abdominal respiratory inductance plethysmography, and three-axis acceleration. For 10 min each, the subjects sit, stand, walk, and run, with a resting period of 5 min in between each activity. We preprocessed the electrocardiogram and applied a signal quality index. We analyzed the signal quality index grouped by the activity and participants. For sitting, standing, walking, and running, the ECG signals provide acceptable quality over 73.20 %, 91.85 %, 12.26 %, and 13.14 % of the recording time. In conclusion, smart wearables may be useful for continuous health monitoring of people with a sedentary lifestyle, but rather not for sportive activities.

Semi-supervised learning for real-time anomaly detection in pulsed transfer wire arc additive manufacturing

In Wire-Arc Additive Manufacturing (WAAM), ensuring the quality and integrity of components is of key importance and performing anomaly detection during production is an efficient strategy for preventing defects and maintaining an acceptable quality with lower costs compared to the development of complex supervised learning techniques. This paper presents an approach based on semi-supervised learning for real-time anomaly detection in the production of Inconel 718 components via the Pulsed Transfer WAAM process. The workflow is based on the use of training data obtained by employing established process parameters, similar to what is done in Welding Procedure Qualification Records (WPQRs), to develop a semi-supervised anomaly detection application. The proposed approach involves depositing material using the already established process parameters and collecting the corresponding welding data in terms of welding current and voltage sensor signals. The collected data are then employed to train an unsupervised algorithm by using solely good deposition data to learn hidden complex patterns of normality and hence detect anomalies based on deviations from these patterns. With this aim, global and local features are extracted from the welding current and voltage sensor signals in both time and time-frequency domains via Wavelet Transform technique and a deep learning approach based on a residual convolutional autoencoder. To showcase the effectiveness of the proposed approach, a case study involving wire arc additive manufacturing of Inconel 718 components was conducted. The proposed algorithm was tested and achieved an F-score of 0.895, representing a 30 % improvement over state-of-the-art methods that rely on time domain features for anomaly detection. This research work contributes to the improvement of anomaly detection methodologies, offering substantial advantages over alternative techniques for quality control and reliability of additive manufacturing processes such as WAAM.