Maintenance Of Quality Research Articles

Effectiveness and safety of clove oil and common salt in the long-term transport of Cyprinus carpio

In this study, we aimed to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of clove essential oil (CEO) in combination with common salt during the long-term transport (24 h) of Cyprinus carpio. The experiment was conducted according to a completely randomized design with a 4 × 2 factorial arrangement, including four levels of CEO (0, 5, 10, and 15 mg L−1) and two levels of common salt (0 and 3 g L−1). Sampling was carried out before, immediately after, and 96 h after transport. CEO alone was not completely safe for C. carpio during transportation, as indicated by the increase in unionized ammonia in water and oxidative stress in fish gills and liver. Although common salt reduced water ammonia and fish stress responses (blood glucose), its use in isolation is not recommended, as it caused oxidative damage to the liver and gills. These effects had not been previously reported in the literature. However, the use of 5 mg L−1 CEO in combination with salt provided the best results both immediately after and 96 h after transport. In gills, there was a reduction in nitric oxide and carbonylated proteins and an increase in catalase activity at 96 h after transport. In the liver, there was a decrease in nitric oxide and oxidative damage (carbonylated proteins and malondialdehyde) immediately after transport, as well as a decrease in nitric oxide and an increase in glutathione-S-transferase activity at 96 h after transport. Thus, combined use of 5 mg L−1 CEO and 3 g L−1 common salt proved to be effective and safe, resulting in better maintenance of water quality (lower ammonia content) and redox status of the gills and liver in C. carpio during long-term transport.

Challenge in optimizing robotic pancreaticoduodenectomy including nerve plexus hanging maneuver: a Japanese single center experience of 76 cases.

Robotic pancreaticoduodenectomy (RPD) is technically demanding, and 20-50 cases are required to surpass the learning curve. This study aimed to show our experience of 76 cases from the introduction of RPD and report the changes in surgical results owing to the accumulation of cases and optimization of surgical techniques. A total of 76 patients who underwent RPD between November 2009 and May 2023 at the Fujita Health University Hospital were divided into three groups: competency (n = 23, Nov 2009-Mar 2020), proficiency (n = 31, Apr 2020-Jun 2022), and mastery (n = 22, Jul 2022-May 2023) phases. In the mastery phase, for the education of new surgeons and maintenance of surgical quality, optimization of the procedure, including hanging maneuver with or without stapling transection of the retropancreatic tissue was implemented. The surgical outcomes were compared between the groups. The mean operation time decreased over time despite of the participation of newly started operators in mastery phase [competency: 921.5min (IQR 775-996min) vs. proficiency: 802.8min (IQR 715-887min) vs. mastery: 609.2min (IQR 514-699min), p < 0.001]. Additionally, Clavien-Dindo ≥ grade IIIa complications decreased from 52.2% in competency phase to 35.5% and 9.1% in proficiency and mastery phases, respectively (p = 0.005). Operation time and major complications decreased along the learning curve from the introduction of RPD. In addition, optimization of the procedure, including hanging maneuver of the retropancreatic tissue seemed to be effective in reducing operation time and educating new RPD surgeons.

Principles and Applications of Non-Thermal Technologies for Meat Decontamination.

Meat contains high-value protein compounds that might degrade as a result of oxidation and microbial contamination. Additionally, various pathogenic and spoilage microorganisms can grow in meat. Moreover, contamination with pathogenic microorganisms above the infectious dose has caused foodborne illness outbreaks. To decrease the microbial population, traditional meat preservation methods such as thermal treatment and chemical disinfectants are used, but it may have limitations for the maintenance of meat quality or the consumers acceptance. Thus, non-thermal technologies (e.g., high-pressure processing, pulsed electric field, non-thermal plasma, pulsed light, supercritical carbon dioxide technology, ozone, irradiation, ultraviolet light, and ultrasound) have emerged to improve the shelf life and meat safety. Non-thermal technologies are becoming increasingly important because of their advantages in maintaining low temperature, meat nutrition, and short processing time. Especially, pulsed light and pulsed electric field treatment induce few sensory and physiological changes in high fat and protein meat products, making them suitable for the application. Many research results showed that these non-thermal technologies may keep meat fresh and maintain heat-sensitive elements in meat products.

Analysis of the seasonal water quality variation at the hydraulic junction of a dual-source water distribution system.

The implementation of a dual-source water supply system offers an increased level of reliability in water provision; however, intricate hydraulic dynamics introduce apprehensions regarding water safety at the hydraulic junction. In this study, we gathered data of the water quality at the hydraulic junction of a dual-source water supply system (plant A and plant B, sampling site A10 was near plant A, and sampling site A12 was near plant B) for one year in Suzhou Industrial Park. Our findings indicated that seasonal variations and water temperature exerted significant influence on the composition and formation of disinfection byproducts (DBPs). Notably, during the warmer months spanning from June to September, the concentration of trihalomethanes was the highest at the hydraulic junction, whereas the concentration of residual chloride was the lowest. The analysis on DBPs revealed that more Br-containing precursors in water in plant A resulted in the accumulation of more Br-containing DBPs at A10, whereas the highest concentration of Cl-containing DBPs accumulated at A12. The analysis of the dissolved organic matter (DOM) composition indicated an increase in concentration at A10 and A12 compared with that in plant A and plant B. The highest concentration of humic acids was observed at A10, whereas A12 accumulated the highest concentration of aromatic proteins and microbial metabolites. Owing to the fluctuations in water consumption patterns at the hydraulic junction, the water quality was susceptible to variability, thereby posing an elevated risk. Consequently, extensive efforts are warranted to ensure the maintenance of water safety and quality at this critical interface.

Повышение адекватности моделей электромеханотронных систем

Development of electromechanotronic systems is connected with modeling and calculation of processes of various kinds. Electromagnetic, mechanical and thermal processes are analyzed, control, regulation, protection, monitoring and diagnostics problems are solved. Systems may contain a large number of power semiconductor elements. Short-term and multi-hour processes are calculated. Taking into account mutual connections of processes of various kinds in calculations of complex systems requires inadmissibly large expenditures of machine time. The problems are solved under more or less significant assumptions, which leads to a decrease in the adequacy of the results. The methods of systems calculation are proposed, which allow to reduce machine time consumption and to use more detailed description of installations and more accurate computer models. Possibilities of calculation of processes by «smooth components» of variables, and also application of dual models, in which speed and accuracy are combined, are considered. As an example, a system with an active cascade frequency converter containing 780 transistors and diodes, parasitic inductances and snubber circuits, and a vector-controlled induction motor with ladder circuits accounting for current displacement is analyzed. The model takes into account energy losses in the converter and in the motor, as well as the distribution of losses by components. It also takes into account emergency operation modes associated with disconnection of a part of low-voltage units of the cascade converter and maintenance of power quality at its input and output by symmetrization of the main current components and suppression of parasitic components.

Vaginal reconstruction by collagen scaffolds loaded with vaginal epithelial and smooth muscle cells in pigs.

In women, a healthy and functional vagina is important for the maintenance of a good quality of life. Various factors, including congenital anomalies, cancer, trauma, infections, inflammation, or iatrogenic injuries, can lead to damage or loss of the vaginal structure, necessitating repair or replacement. Often, such reconstruction procedures involve the use of nonvaginal tissue substitutes, like segments of the large intestine or skin, which are less than ideal both anatomically and functionally. Therefore, there is an urgent need to develop new methods of vaginal reconstruction. In this study, we established a new method for isolation and expansion of vaginal epithelial and smooth muscle cells. Subsequently, collagen scaffolds designed for vaginal reconstruction were loaded with vaginal epithelial and smooth muscle cells in vitro and tested in vivo using the vaginal excision pig model. The results showed that the collagen scaffold loaded with vaginal epithelial and smooth muscle cells significantly promotes the reconstruction of the vagina compared with small intestinal submucosa (SIS) membrane or bare collagen scaffold. Notably, the reconstructed vaginal tissues exhibit remarkable similarity to their normal counterparts, encompassing not only the vaginal epithelium and smooth muscle but also the intricate networks of blood vessels and nerves. These compelling results underscore the feasibility of a tissue engineering approach in vaginal reconstruction, offering promising prospects for improving the quality of life in affected individuals.

Qualidade de ovos e desempenho de codornas japonesas suplementadas com selênio orgânico e inorgânico

ABSTRACT The objective of this study was to assess the impact of supplementing quail diets with organic selenium (Se) at various concentrations and inorganic Se on performance, egg quality, and storage time under different conditions. In the performance trial, 360 quail aged 27 weeks were included in a completely randomized design comprising six treatments: Basal Diet; 0.15, 0.30, 0.45, and 0.60 ppm of organic Se; and 0.60 ppm of inorganic Se, supplemented “on top” of the basal diet. Six replications were used, each with 10 birds per experimental unit. For the evaluation of storage time and conditions, 720 quail eggs were employed in a completely randomized design. The design featured a 6×5×2 factorial arrangement consisting of six treatments derived from the performance trial, five storage times (7, 14, 21, 28, and 35 days), and two storage forms (refrigerated and non-refrigerated). Each replication contained one egg, totaling 12 replications. Results indicated no significant effect of organic or inorganic Se supplementation in the diets on performance or egg quality. However, Se concentration increased linearly in eggs from quail fed increasing levels of this nutrient. Selenium supplementation affected storage time and egg quality under refrigerated and room-temperature conditions. In conclusion, on-top Se supplementation at concentrations ranging from 0.15 to 0.60 ppm, whether in organic or inorganic forms, does not impact quail performance. Nevertheless, it leads to increased Se deposition in eggs, contributing to the maintenance of egg quality throughout the storage period.

Effect of cinnamaldehyde on Rhizopus stolonifer and on the conservation of sweet potato

Abstract Objectives Rhizopus stolonifer, which causes soft rot of sweet potato, has resulted in substantial loss of economy postharvest. Materials and Methods The antifungal effect and mechanism of cinnamaldehyde (CIN) against R. stolonifer were explored by biochemical analysis and RNA-sequencing in this research, and the edible quality of CIN-treated sweet potato was evaluated. Results The results showed that CIN inhibited the growth of R. stolonifer and reduced the incidence of soft rot in sweet potato at a minimum inhibitory concentration of 1000 μL/L. The damage of the cell walls of R. stolonifer by CIN was associated with the upregulation of CHT1. Cytosolic leakage and malondialdehyde content increased following CIN-treatment, which was correlated with increased reactive oxygen species levels and decreased catalase activity. Upregulation of ERG genes and oxidative stress-related genes following CIN treatment was associated with impaired cell membrane integrity. The mitochondrial structure of R. stolonifer was damaged by CIN treatment resulting in decreased respiration rates and ATP production, which was correlated with lower expression levels of IDH1, COX4, and QCR7. Conclusions Our research suggests that the inhibition of CIN on R. stolonifer was related to the disruption of its normal gene expression network, and CIN maintained the nutritional and edible quality of sweet potato. This study provides valuable insights into the antifungal mechanism of CIN on R. stolonifer and the maintenance of root quality, which contributes to the efficient use of CIN for controlling soft rot in sweet potato.

Improving the efficiency of the maintenance and monitoring system for mine degassing pipelines

Degassing pipelines in mine workings frequently change position, causing leaks and joint failures due to geomechanical processes and floor rock heaving, which lead to fatigue and corrosion. This paper reviews maintenance and renovation methods for these pipelines, aiming to develop innovative solutions to enhance operational performance. Research focuses on assessing current maintenance techniques, improving reliability, and implementing new technical solutions under real mine conditions. The proposed technological complex aims to enhance the safety and quality of pipeline maintenance and renovation. Typical production scenarios and monitoring methods for effective control of the technical state of mine degassing systems are considered. Continuous control of degassing wells and pipelines using structural modules of the Automated Mine Degassing Control System (AMDCS) is emphasized. Implementing these modules allows for automatic monitoring of the methane-air mixture and measurement of pressure drops, absolute pressure, temperature, and gas flow volume, thereby providing critical data to operational personnel.

The system of formation of a fleet of vehicles for traffic safety management on high-speed roads

The article discusses the issue of increasing the requirements for road safety in the Russian Federation. The data on the growth of the fleet and the increase in transport mobility of the population are presented, while it is noted that the death rate as a result of road accidents remains very high. Special attention is paid to the analysis of winter road maintenance, the causes of mass accidents, as well as the assessment of the quality of road maintenance and possible ways to improve the safety system. It is noted that at the moment there is wear and tear of existing road equipment, which is being replaced with new imported ones. The necessity of improvement has been established and an algorithm for the formation and management of a fleet of road and utility vehicles servicing highways has been proposed to minimize accident-hazardous road operating conditions and ensure road safety at all levels. Keywords road safety, winter maintenance of roads, motorways, road vehicles, a fleet of vehicles for the maintenance of highways

Correlation Mining-Based Strategies for Improving the Quality and Efficiency of Financial Data Center Operation, Maintenance, and Monitoring in Cloud-Native Models

Abstract At present, the daily operation and maintenance of large-scale data centers such as banks in China, due to a variety of reasons, often brings about the problem of unexpected events that are difficult to locate. In order to ensure that the systems running in the data center work efficiently, this paper proposes a method for improving the operation, maintenance, and monitoring of financial data centers based on the cloud-native model. First, we sequentially cleanse and process the financial center data to eliminate any negative impact and generate a time-trending correlation of financial attributes. We then apply association mining to data center operation and maintenance, using stock information as an example to analyze the operational results in stock trading transactions. The result of correlation mining is component B index (up)⇒ component A index (up), support = 12/100, confidence = 12/19, which indicates that in 100 trading days, the number of days that the component B index and the component A index rise together is 12 days, while the number of days that the component B rises alone is 19 days. In the case study examining the impact of association mining in stock trading, on March 15, 2022, the stock price experienced a rise from 11.456 to 11.498 within a mere 0.1s. The financial data operation and maintenance system, using association mining, identified this as “abnormal,” demonstrating the model’s successful detection of abnormal behavior.

Artificial Intelligence in the Printing Industry: A Systematic Review of Industrial Applications, Challenges and Benefits

The commercial printing industry is undergoing a significant transformation with the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI), yet there is limited literature on its specific applications and impact. This systematic review addresses two critical research questions: What are the key industrial domains where AI is applied in the printing industry, and what are the associated benefits and challenges? Our study identifies the primary AI applications across Production Planning and Control (PPC), Quality Management (QM), Maintenance Management (MM), and Supply Chain Management (SCM). PPC employs optimization algorithms to optimise scheduling and resource allocation, improving production efficiency. In QM, Machine Learning and Computer Vision detect defects and optimize print quality. MM focuses on minimizing downtime by ensuring machines operate efficiently through predictive maintenance. Despite these advancements, challenges such as high-quality data requirements, algorithmic complexity, and integration difficulties persist. This research fills a critical gap in the literature by providing a comprehensive overview of AI’s role in the printing industry, offering valuable insights into its potential to drive efficiency, cost savings, and quality improvements. Our findings suggest that while AI holds substantial promise, its benefits are contingent upon overcoming significant implementation challenges. This study contributes to the ongoing discourse on digital transformation by providing a robust framework for understanding AI’s current and future impact on the printing sector. Our methodology followed PRISMA guidelines, with a thorough review and thematic analysis of peer-reviewed studies. The insights gained from this review can guide future research and practical implementations, positioning AI as a crucial enabler in the evolving landscape of the printing industry.

Multi-dimensional analysis of financial accounting information and construction of decision support systems

Abstract Financial information is the core information of modern enterprises, which is of great significance to the sustainable development of enterprises. Based on the cost variance accounting model, the comprehensive budget management model, and the financial crisis early warning model, the financial information decision support system was constructed. Company S was selected for case analysis, and three modules in the decision-making system were used to analyze the company’s operating costs, overall budget management, and financial situation. Among the seven work centers of Company S, the consumption costs of the semi-finished product center and the procurement center account for the highest proportion, reaching more than 50% of the total manufacturing cost. Acquisition operations, raw material processing operations, semi-finished product operations, packaging operations, and quality inspection operations are some of the value-added operations of The Company. The operation efficiency of the procurement center, quality inspection center, maintenance center, and storage center is not high. Raw material processing centers, semi-finished product centers, and packaging centers are highly efficient. In 2022, the net profit of Company S will be -1.7592 million yuan, and the total profit will be -2.7418 million yuan. Management and selling expenses are exceeding the budget. The probability of financial risk was 82.35% and 88.46%, respectively. The company is facing serious financial risks due to its declining corporate sales, solvency, difficult capital turnover, and severe financial risks.

Laser Descaling Area Recognition Method Based on LabVIEW and Machine Vision

Abstract Automated laser descaling represents a crucial advancement in marine maintenance, particularly in localized corrosion treatment. This research utilizes AH32 marine steel for corrosion testing, applying color feature extraction and the OTSU thresholding method, refined with morphological processing, to accurately delineate descaling areas. We have engineered a laser descaling protocol with an impressive 97% recognition accuracy through the innovative application of LabVIEW technology combined with machine vision. Implementing this technology promises enhanced corrosion resistance for marine vessels, setting a new standard for maintenance efficiency and quality.

Nutritional quality of Brazil nuts from different trees and under different storage conditions

The Amazon nut is a naturally organic food, considered a functional food for promoting good nutrition and health of the body. Its regular consumption has already been associated with reducing several diseases due to the high antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities of some phytochemicals, mainly Selenium (Se). The objectives of this study were: 1) to evaluate whether Brazil nut trees that present higher fruit production also have higher Se content, 2) to check for alterations in Brazil nut (2021 harvest) seeds after one year of storage under different controlled conditions; 3) to check for alterations in the proximate composition of seeds (2022 harvest) after pre-drying and storage in the field. The average Se content was 143 mg kg-1, varying from 33 to 544 mg kg-1, with higher values in Brazil nuts collected from trees with lower fruit production. Seeds stored in their fruit for one year had higher moisture content (21%) and water activity (0.91) than those in the climate-controlled cold room and laboratory room, in addition to more carbohydrates and less lipids. This proved the efficiency of seed storage in fruit to maintain germination viability. In general, no significant changes were found in the proximate and nutritional composition of Brazil nuts taken to storehouse of pre-drying and the local buyer’s warehouse, proving that these conditions enable the quality maintenance of fresh Brazil nuts. These results can support commercialization, improvement, and valorization actions in the Brazil nut production chain that favor its quality as a functional and nutraceutical food.

Teor de água e temperatura de armazenamento na conservação de sementes de pupunha

ABSTRACT: The peach palm (Bactrisgasipaes) is an important alternative for heart-of-palm extraction, showing precocity, rusticity and high tillering. The seeds of this species are considered recalcitrant making storage for long periods and production of seedlings difficulty. This identified a combination of moisture content of peach palm seeds and temperature during storage for longer seed longevity. Seeds with 35% and 45% of moisture content (wet basis - wb) were storage at 20 °C and 25 ºC during 180 days. The evaluations were carried out every 60 days by the germination test, emergence in sand, shoot length, diameter of stem, shoot dry matter, root dry matter and moisture content. It was observed that seeds with moisture content of 45% wb showed better performance during storage. The storage at 20 ºC provides higher seed quality maintenance. Peach palm seeds maintain their viability for 120 days when stored with moisture content of 45% wb at 20 ºC.

The selection parameter for the operation and maintenance dam based on activity-based costing

Potential risks to people exist if a dam collapses and has a significant impact on the downstream area. Many countries are now facing the problem of having to deal with deteriorated infrastructure due to a lack of maintenance budgeting. This paper presents the dominant parameter in an Operational and Maintenance (OM) dam to build a cost estimation model to maintain the service life of the dam. The method used to identify cost-triggering parameters is based on activity-based costing and dam performance assessments using a combination of the modified Andersen, International Commission of Large Dams (ICOLD), and Dam Commission. The parameter was collected from fourteen independent variables, namely: dam height, irrigation area, sedimentation volume, grass area, wood vegetation area, corrosion area, concrete area, daily worker, corrosion expert, concrete deterioration, hydromechanical, physical performance, operation performance, and safety performance. The results of the model indicate that height, wood vegetation area, concrete maintenance area, hydromechanical deterioration, and safety performance are variables that affect OM costs. The OM costs can be reduced if the safety performance variable increases. This condition implies that if the safety performance component consists of dam monitoring activities, periodic inspections, green belt maintenance, water quality maintenance, and public awareness, the OM costs will decrease by 10%.

Hybrid Tabu-Grey wolf optimizer algorithm for enhancing fresh cold-chain logistics distribution.

The increasing public demand for fresh products has catalyzed the requirement for cold chain logistics distribution systems. However, challenges such as temperature control and delivery delays have led a significant product loss and increased costs. To improve the current situation, a novel approach to optimize cold chain logistics distribution for fresh products will be presented in the paper, utilizing a hybrid Tabu-Grey wolf optimizer (TGWO) algorithm. The proposed hybrid approach combines Tabu search (TS) and Grey wolf optimizer (GWO), employing TS for exploration and GWO for exploitation, aiming to minimize distribution costs in total and establish efficient vehicle scheduling schemes considering various constraints. The effectiveness of the TGWO algorithm is demonstrated through experiments and case studies compared to other heuristic algorithms. Comparative analysis against traditional optimization methods, including Particle swarm optimization (PSO), Whale optimization algorithm (WOA), and original GWO, highlights its superior efficiency and solution quality. This study contributes theories by demonstrating the efficacy of hybrid optimization techniques in complex supply chain networks and dynamic market environments. The practical implication lies in the implementation of TGWO to bolster distribution efficiency, cost reduction, and product quality maintenance throughout the logistics process, offering valuable insights for operational and strategic improvements by decision-makers. However, the study has limitations in generalizability and assumptions, suggesting future research areas including exploring new search operators, applying additional parameters, and using the algorithm in diverse real-life scenarios to improve its effectiveness and applicability.

Simulation-based Training for Anaesthesiology Residents: A Boon

Training in anaesthesiology necessitates exposure to diverse clinical situations, demanding quick thinking, decision-making, and intervention. Achieving expertise in this field traditionally requires years of clinical practice and exposure to various scenarios. Simulation-Based Medical Education (SBME) revolutionises anaesthesiology training by providing a controlled environment where trainees can acquire knowledge, refine clinical skills, and develop clinical and non clinical competencies. This approach includes training in soft skills, critical analysis of clinical scenarios, and receiving constructive feedback from qualified instructors. In alignment with industries like aviation and the military, various countries have incorporated SBME into medical curricula. The present scoping review explores the benefits, limitations, and diverse applications of SBME for anaesthesiology trainees. The historical progression of SBME, from basic procedural models to advanced simulations and virtual reality, underscores its transformative impact on medical education. Standards and accreditation for simulation laboratories ensure quality maintenance in training programs. SBME in anaesthesiology focuses on technical skill development and cultivating crucial non technical skills essential for patient safety. The review emphasises the need for a comprehensive curriculum, qualified instructors, reliable equipment, and ethical considerations to establish standards for simulation in anaesthesia. The versatility of simulation types, including low-fidelity task trainers, high-fidelity mannequins, and virtual simulations, enhances training opportunities. Anaesthesia simulation encompasses a spectrum of scenarios, from cardiothoracic anaesthesia to airway management, addressing technical and soft skills. While SBME offers advantages such as enhanced teamwork, regulated skill development, and exposure to rare situations, drawbacks include costs, ethical concerns, and replicating real-world complexity. Ongoing research is crucial to assess the effectiveness of SBME and its impact on patient outcomes. The evolving significance of SBME in anaesthesiology suggests its continued promise for breakthroughs in medical education.

Determinants of Financial Performance: An Evidence from Primary Cooperative Agriculture Developments Banks of Punjab

This research investigates the determinants of financial performance in Primary Cooperative Agriculture Development Banks operating in Punjab, India. By analysing the impact of Capital Adequacy, Asset Quality, Management Efficiency, Earnings, and Liquidity on Return on Assets (ROA), the study aims to offer insights into enhancing financial health and regional economic growth. Using a panel regression model, financial data from multiple periods and banks are analysed. Key findings indicate that maintaining adequate capital positively influences ROA, while prudent lending practices are crucial for asset quality maintenance. Efficient management enhances ROA, and higher earnings and effective asset use contribute to profitability. While liquidity management’s impact is limited, its role in meeting short-term obligations remains significant. This study provides actionable insights for banks and policymakers, emphasising capital reserves, prudent lending, operational efficiency, and asset utilisation. Effective liquidity management remains important. This research contributes uniquely to understanding financial determinants in cooperative banks, guiding decision-making, policy formulation, and promoting agricultural development and economic growth.