Quality Standards Research Articles

Rice quality classification system using convolutional neural network and an adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system

In the food sector, rice processing and classification are essential operations that help maintain strict quality and safety standards, satisfy various consumer preferences, and satisfy particular market demands. Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning techniques are used in automated systems to reliably and effectively classify rice quality. This research compares a rice quality classification system using a convolutional neural network (CNN) and an adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system (ANFIS). Both methods are evaluated for their ability to classify rice based on quality, utilizing a dataset encompassing various physical characteristics. The comparative analysis results reveal the strengths and weaknesses of each approach in addressing this classification task. In this research, two classification systems for different varieties of rice-medium and premium—are compared. CNN and ANFIS are the techniques applied. The CNN accuracy on the rice picture is 62.5%. Thus, a contrast enhancement procedure was applied and had better accuracy at 75%. However, when contrasted with the classification made using the ANFIS approach, the ANFIS method continued to yield the best accuracy, 82.25%.

Experiences and Initiatives on Pharmacokinetics Modeling and Simulation Data analyses: Perspectives from the Brazilian Health Regulatory Agency (ANVISA).

The landscape of drug product development and regulatory sciences is evolving, driven by the increasing application of systems thinking and modeling and simulation (M&S) techniques, especially from a biopharmaceutics perspective. Patient-centric quality standards can be achieved within this context through the application of quality by design (QbD) principles and M&S, specifically by defining clinically relevant dissolution specifications (CRDS). To this end, it is essential to bridge in vitro results to drug product in vivo performance, emphasizing the need to explore the translational capacity of biopharmaceutics tools. Physiologically based M&S analyses offer a unique avenue for integrating the drug, drug product, and biological properties of a target organism to study their interactions on the pharmacokinetic response. Accordingly, Physiologically Based Biopharmaceutics Modeling (PBBM) has seen increasing use to support drug development and regulatory applications globally. In Brazil, a Model-Informed Drug Development (MIDD) policy and strategic project are not yet established, limiting applicability of M&S techniques. Drawing from the experience of the ANVISA-Academia PBBM Working Group (WG), this article assesses the opportunities and challenges for pharmacometrics (PMx) in Brazil and proposes strategies to advance the adoption of M&S analyses into regulatory decision-making.

Design of Experiment and green analytical chemistry principles for developing a robust and sustainable Stability-Indicating HPLC method for Bempedoic acid impurity profiling

Bempedoic acid (BEM), a drug used to lower cholesterol levels in patients with atherosclerosis. Controlling its process-related impurities is crucial due to their potential toxicity. This study details the development of a RP-HPLC method for the analysis of four process-related substances in BEM. To ensure robust chromatographic performance meeting six sigma quality standards, the method was optimized using a combined approach of response surface methodology (specifically, an I-optimal design) and tolerance analysis, integrating predefined specifications for critical method attributes such as resolution, tailing factor, and number of theoretical plates into the developmental process. Chromatographic separation was achieved using a C18 column. The mobile phase consisted of 0.1 % phosphoric acid in water and acetonitrile, utilizing a stepped gradient elution profile. The flow rate was maintained at 0.9 mL/min, with UV detection performed at 210 nm. The column temperature was set to 20 °C. The method demonstrated linearity for BEM process related impurities in the range of LOQ to 30 μg mL−1. The method ability to differentiate the drug substance from its degradation products was confirmed through forced degradation study. The environmental sustainability of the developed method was assessed using multiple Green Analytical Chemistry (GAC) tools. The National Environmental Methods Index (NEMI) showed two green-shaded quadrants, and the Green Certificate modified Eco-scale awarded a score of 70. The Complementary Green Analytical Procedure Index (Complex GAPI) confirmed the method environmentally friendly profile. Additionally, The AGREE tool generated a score of 0.77, indicating strong overall greenness, while the AGREEprep tool, focused on sample preparation, yielded a score of 0.54. Other tools such as the Sample Preparation Metric of Sustainability (SPMS) and the HPLC Environmental Assessment Tool (HPLC-EAT) scored 8.42 and 569, respectively, further demonstrating the method green credentials. This robust and environmentally conscious analytical framework offers significant potential for application in quality control of BEM.

MS brain health quality standards: a survey on the reality in clinical practice in Germany

Abstract Background The quality of treatment is especially critical in the context of complex and chronic diseases such as multiple sclerosis (MS). The Brain Health Initiative, an independent international consortium of neurologists, reached a consensus on time-based quality standards prioritizing brain health-focused care for people with MS. Objectives To gain deeper insights into the transferability of these quality standards to a specific area, we conducted a survey among MS experts across various MS centers in Germany. Methods Participants were asked about time frames considered high standards and those currently being implemented in daily routine based on their experience. Results The results reveal a large gap between ideal conceptions and their adaptation in the real world, mostly due to a lack of resources. Conclusions Nevertheless, these guidelines and recommendations can be aspired to as ideals. Consensual and inclusive clinical pathways complemented by measurable quality indicators are needed to improve care and approach these ideals. Neither exists in the current management of MS.

Investigation into Recycling of Iron Oxide Scale on H13 Steel by Low‐Temperature Carbothermal Reduction Method

The current method for recovering iron oxide scale in the steel industry is not economically optimal, especially for high‐alloy scales found in alloyed steel. This study focuses on iron oxide scale containing valuable metals like chromium (Cr), molybdenum (Mo), and vanadium (V). The required carbon addition is calculated based on the iron and chromium oxides in the scale. The effects of varying carbon additions and reduction temperatures on reduction efficiency are thoroughly examined. Kinetic studies show that as temperature and carbon increase, the rate‐limiting step shifts from interfacial diffusion to interfacial reaction. Reduction experiments assess carbon utilization, metallization rate, deoxidation rate, and removal of harmful elements. Results show that high temperatures hinder sulfur (S) and phosphorus (P) removal, and excess carbon reduces carbon utilization efficiency. Optimal conditions are a carbon ratio of 0.2174 and a temperature of 1150 °C. The carbothermic reduction product requires further refinement through conventional ladle slag systems to meet the quality standards for metallic materials. Over 65% of alloying elements are recovered, though phosphorus content remains slightly higher than in finished alloy steel. The materials from this study are suitable as high‐quality intermediates for alloy steel production.

The development of quality standards for career guidance in the United Kingdom

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Health benefits of decarbonization and clean air policies in Beijing and China

Abstract Although China has seen strong reductions in air pollution levels in the last decade, PM2.5 concentrations still exceed the WHO Guideline several times, causing a substantial burden of mortality and morbidity. With many ‘low hanging fruits’ in terms of abatement measures already taken, further improvements will be more difficult and likely require different strategies than pursued so far. This study looks into the trends expected under current energy policies and air pollution control legislation and analyses the source contributions to ambient PM2.5 in China, with a special focus on the megacity of Beijing. Although reductions are foreseen, China appears not yet on track to meet its long-term targets for greenhouse gas emissions nor the future national air quality standards. Going beyond current policies, we analyze effects of measures which tackle both issues and quantify health co-benefits from further decarbonization policies required to meet the national target of reaching carbon neutrality by 2060, as well as the potential for further air pollution mitigation.

The extent of practicing quality standards of educational activities in Arabic language lessons

The present study aims at exploring the extent to which the quality standards of educational activities in Arabic language syllabi is practiced. For this goal, the research adopted the descriptive approach. For the objective of the study, the researcher resorted to the mixed method; quantitative and qualitative data collection and analysis. The mixed data collection methods comprised list of quality standards for educational activities, observation card, and semi-structured interviews. The research sample included 28 Arabic language teachers in government schools for boys in Abha city and 4 language teacher supervisors and 4 School Accreditation Evaluation Specialist. The respondents of the sample were distributed as follows: 10 teachers from the upper grades of primary school, 10 Arabic language teachers from intermediate school and 8 teachers from secondary school. The study tools include a list of quality standards of educational activities and a classroom observation card. An observation card was designed to reveal the extent of practicing the quality standards of educational activities in Arabic language courses. Regarding the list of quality standards, the research identified 25 quality standards for educational activities in Arabic language syllabi. Ultimately, the study concluded that the degree of practicing the quality standards of educational activities ranged from 2.28 to 1.18, which means that the degree of practicing them is between average and low. Moreover, the extent of practicing the quality standards of educational activities in Arabic language syllabi as a whole was 1.59, which means that they are practiced at a weak level. Accordingly, the researcher suggested some recommendations and future studies.

Determination of Metal Cadmium (Cd), Copper (Cu), Iron (Fe) and Zinc (Zn) in Drinking Water from The Boring Well of Surbakti Village, Karo District by Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry Method

Water is an essential requirement for human existence. In addition to traditional water usage, water is essential for enhancing the quality of human existence and facilitating industrial and technological endeavors. An investigation was conducted on the contents of Cadmium (Cd), Copper (Cu), Iron (Fe), and Zinc (Zn) in drinking water from drilled wells in Surbakti Village, Karo District, employing Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry (AAS) techniques. Sampling occurred during weeks 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 and was subsequently digested with concentrated nitric acid until a volume of 15 mL was attained. The metal concentrations of Cd, Cu, Fe, and Zn were quantified using Atomic Absorption Spectroscopy (AAS) using a calibration curve. The findings indicated a concentration of Cd at 0.0031 mg/L, Cu at 0.0470 mg/L, Fe at 0.2741 mg/L, and Zn at 0.2929 mg/L. In this instance, Cd produced a greater concentration of drinking water standards compared to Cu, Fe, and Zn. Nonetheless, it nonetheless met the drinking quality standards established by Regulation Minister of Health No. 492/Menkes/Per/VII/2010.

From Waste to Wealth: Entrepreneurial Ventures in Chitosan Extraction for Environmental Sustainability

The degradation of water quality in the environment can be attributed to the discharge of wastewater from shrimp ponds. Conversely, solid waste in the form of shrimp shells presents an entrepreneurial opportunity through the extraction of chitosan, a substance with the potential to enhance water quality while contributing to environmental sustainability. Sampling for this study was conducted at the Vannamei Nusantara Gemilang pond, located in Tambakrejo Village, Malang Regency, East Java. The research employed an experimental methodology with a quantitative approach, supplemented by a literature review. Various doses of chitosan solutions were tested on shrimp pond wastewater. The optimal results were obtained at a dosage of 80 mg/L, significantly outperforming the untreated water. The test outcomes for the 80 mg/L dosage included: BOD (Biochemical Oxygen Demand) at 4.62 mg/L, Nitrite concentration at 0.045 mg/L, turbidity at 3.55 NTU (Nephelometric Turbidity Units), TSS (Total Suspended Solids) at 14.6 mg/L, TDS (Total Dissolved Solids) at 2974 mg/L, pH level at 6.31, and temperature at 31.40°C. Notably, the Total Dissolved Solids (TDS) levels did not meet quality standards, highlighting the need for further process optimization. These findings emphasize the potential of chitosan extraction as a sustainable solution, while also underscoring the importance of continued research into the economic feasibility of this waste-to-wealth approach. Further studies are necessary to refine the wastewater treatment process, quantify the economic benefits, and ensure the long-term viability of this entrepreneurial venture in environmental sustainability.

Exploring alternative manufacturing techniques for high-quality solar cell interconnectors: a comparative study of laser cutting and electric discharge machining

Abstract Solar cell interconnectors are typically crafted from thin foils to establish an electrical connection between two components. For limited production of interconnectors with non-standard dimensions, common production methods (such as stamping and sheet metal processes) cannot be utilized. This article examines alternative techniques, such as Fiber Laser Cutting Machine and Electric Discharge Machining (wire cutting). The laser cutting method did not achieve the desired quality standards, leading to the rejection of the interconnectors. Issues such as burning, local melting, and damage to the silver coating were noted at the edges. The melting of the coating layers formed brittle intermetallic compounds, which can cause cracking and reduce weldability and solderability. In contrast, the Electric Discharge Machining method successfully produces interconnectors with complex shapes by stacking layers of foil. This approach results in high-quality interconnectors that showed no signs of burning or local melting on their edges.

ANALISIS KONTRIBUSI KEPADATAN KENDARAAN BERMOTOR TERHADAP KONSENTRASI KARBON MONOKSIDA (CO) DAN TINGKAT KEBISINGAN DI JALAN SLAMET RIYADI SURAKARTA

<div class="WordSection1"><p><em>In the current era, the transportation is growing rapidly. It has an impact such as air and noise pollution. Carbon monoxide is one of the dangerous pollutants. While the noise comes from the sound of the vehicle engine, horn, and exhaust. Slamet Riyadi street Surakarta is a protocol road that has a high level of vehicle density. So it is necessary to conduct research with the aim of knowing the effect of motor vehicle density on carbon monoxide concentrations and noise levels. The results showed that the concentration of Carbon monoxide on Slamet Riyadi street Surakarta in the morning and evening exceeded the quality standard of 16038.26 µg/Nm<sup>3</sup></em><em>and 16141.58 µg/Nm<sup>3</sup></em><em>. During the day it is still below the quality standard, which is 9425.86 µg/Nm<sup>3</sup></em><em>. Meanwhile, the daytime noise level on Slamet Riyadi street Surakarta which is calculated by the Leq formula also exceeds the quality standard of 82.33 dBA.</em></p></div>

Existing operational standards for field deployments of rapid response mobile laboratories: a scoping review

IntroductionRapid response mobile laboratories (RRML) play an important role in responding to emergencies such as outbreaks and humanitarian crises, working in coordination with national authorities. This scoping review aims to provide evidence to support the development of minimum operational standards for the deployment of RRMLs across the five key workstreams: operational support and logistics, biosafety and biosecurity, laboratory information management system, quality management systems and interoperability and coordination.MethodsWe searched PubMed, MEDLINE, EMBASE and the grey literature focusing on RRML deployment missions. Study characteristics such as year, country, objectives, methods, and findings were extracted and summarized to identify common themes, gaps, and patterns. The results were presented in a narrative format. We ensured methodological rigor by following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) guidelines throughout the review process.ResultsOut of 163 full-text studies assessed for eligibility, 46 met the inclusion criteria and were analyzed. Six studies addressed the five RRML workstreams. Operational support and logistics are most commonly addressed during pre-deployment phases with a focus on personnel, transport and cold chain management. The application of biosafety and biosecurity protocols is most addressed during the mission execution phase, particularly in the use of personal protective equipment and the implementation of decontamination and disinfection procedures. The laboratory information management system procedures most frequently reported include sample identification and result dissemination protocols. The quality management system workstream overlaps significantly with the other four workstreams, with a strong emphasis on internal and external quality assurance measures. Coordination and interoperability aspects involve maintaining multiple collaborations, ranging from coordinating with local authorities to establishing international partnerships. Common field challenges included interrupted data transfer in areas characterized by poor connectivity and difficulties caused by extreme weather conditions.DiscussionThis review highlights RRML deployment procedures and addresses some critical challenges concerning their deployment. It suggests the provision of a pre-deployment logistics checklist, the use of a pre-determined standardized dataset for inputs to reduce data entry errors and the application of standardized internal and external quality assurance measures.

Mapping the Trade Direction of Indian Rice with Markov Chain Analysis

Agriculture is a cornerstone of India’s economy, with rice being a critical crop that ranks second globally, feeding over half of the world’s population and serving as a staple in Southeast Asia. This study explores the direction of India’s rice trade using Markov Chain Analysis, following an examination of the compound annual growth rate (CAGR) in rice exports to various global regions. Results reveal a 2.26 per cent CAGR in rice production, while export values surged by 16.8 per cent annually. Specifically, the CAGR for rice exports to Iraq and Iran reached 58.6 per cent and 46.47 per cent, respectively. In quantity, India’s rice exports grew by 10.82 per cent, with Iraq and Iran at 44 per cent and 34 per cent. The Transitional Probability Matrix for 2001-2022 indicates strong regional retention, with Africa maintaining 78 per cent of trade value and Asia 93.7 per cent, and similar trends in quantity, where Asia retained 92.6 per cent and Africa 89.1 per cent. These findings highlight India’s potential to diversify rice exports and strengthen its global competitive edge, urging a focus on enhancing processing, transportation, and quality standards for wider market appeal.

Study of the application of UAV and LiDAR to topographic survey of mountainous forest areas – Case study of Win 3 Wind Power Plant Project, Huong Hoa District, Quang Tri Province, Vietnam

Abstract Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) technology in conjunction with aerial photography and aerial Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) was used for topographic surveying of the Win 3 Wind Power Project area, a complex mountainous terrain situated in the Huong Hoa district of Quang Tri province, Vietnam with the primary objective to produce a map with a scale of 1:1,000 with a contour interval of 1.0 m, accompanied by 3D point clouds, a Digital Elevation Model (DEM), and an orthomosaic. Employing the UAV LiDAR system of DJI Matrice 300 RTK, we conduct ed survey flights, achieving a high point density laser scanning of 229 points/m2 and capturing ultra-high-resolution imagery at 4.22 cm/pixel. The integration of aerial LiDAR and photographic data results in a rich and detailed information repository regarding the surveyed terrain demonstrating that UAV LiDAR technology is a robust tool for geographic data collection, particularly in challenging terrain conditions in Vietnam. We also evaluated the accuracy of the created topographic map, achieving results that surpass the technical requirements and quality standards of the project. This underscores the potential and effectiveness of UAV LiDAR technology in the field of large-scale geographic data collection and mapping in Vietnam.

Developing a quality indicator system for evaluating internet plus home care nursing services based on the SERVQUAL model: a Delphi-analytic hierarchy process study

Background In the context of global population aging and the rapid development of information technology, the demand for Internet Plus Home Care Nursing (Internet+ HCN) services have been on the rise, especially in China. Internet+ HCN services have the potential to maximize existing human resources to counter the shortage of medical healthcare services. However, at present, Internet+ HCN services are difficult to scale due to the lack of standardized service quality governance. Quality indicators for service evaluation of Internet+ HCN services are under-defined. Objective To develop a quality indicator system for evaluating Internet+ HCN services, and to shed theoretical light on assessing mHealth service quality from a user experience perspective. Methods An initial quality indicator system was established based on scenarios related to Internet+ HCN services. The Delphi Method was applied to modify the indicators according to experts’ opinions, and the analytic hierarchy process (AHP) was applied to calculate the indicator weight. Finally, a quality indicator system for evaluating Internet+ HCN services was developed based on the SERVQUAL model. Results Altogether, 17 experts from relevant fields such as nursing education, clinical nursing, health management, and health informatics were consulted through email surveys. The response rates in both rounds of Delphi and the AHP were 100%. The average expert authority coefficients were 0.912 and 0.925 respectively in the two rounds of Delphi. Kendall’s W, indicating variation coefficients, ranged from 0.262 to 0.265. Finally, a quality indicator system for evaluating Internet+ HCN services, comprising five primary indicators and 15 secondary indicators, was developed. Primary indicators and their AHP generated the following weights: assurance (0.245), reliability (0.240), tangibles (0.192), responsiveness (0.190), and empathy (0.132). Conclusions By measuring the services quality gap between user expectations and perceptions, the proposed SERVQUAL model-based quality indicator system shows potential in improving the quality of Internet+ HCN services through the perspective of user experiences.

Information and Analytical System Monitoring and Assessment of the Water Bodies State in the Mineral Resources Complex

Currently, one of the most pressing global issues is ensuring that human activities have access to water resources that meet essential quality standards. This challenge is addressed by implementing a series of organizational and technical measures aimed at preserving the ecology of water basins and reducing the level of harmful industrial emissions and other pollutants in the aquatic environment. To guarantee the necessary quality of water resources, monitoring is conducted based on selected parameters using various methods and means of technical quality control. From these results, suitable measures are formulated and applied to maintain water quality. Various scientific works extensively discuss different approaches to water quality management and compliance with specified requirements. Modern strategies for developing water monitoring systems leverage the capabilities of information systems that collect, process, store, and transmit information, enabling the resolution of issues in geographically distributed water bodies in real time. This paper proposes an approach that employs mathematical methods to identify the most significant factors determining water quality and to assess their interrelations using methods of a priori ranking, multivariate correlation regression analysis, and integral quantitative assessment. A hardware and software solution for the development of a unified integrated information and analytical system is proposed. This system enables continuous monitoring and assessment of water bodies based on a set of key parameters, addressing a range of critical tasks. This paper provides a detailed description of the software product, presents a demonstration using real-world data, and discusses the anticipated benefits of implementing such an information and analytical system.

Research on building a biochar production model from agricultural by-products in Gia Lai province

ABSTRACT The impact of climate change on ecosystems and agricultural systems, particularly in key agricultural areas like the Central Highlands of Vietnam, has caused severe soil degradation, water depletion, and desertification, directly affecting productivity and livelihoods. Sustainable agricultural solutions, especially biochar, have gained attention due to their ability to improve soil fertility, retain moisture, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. This research focuses on developing a biochar production model from agricultural by-products in Gia Lai to meet both domestic and export needs. Biochar was produced through the pyrolysis of coffee by-products, including stems, branches, and fruit husks. The study employs 10 brick kilns (90 m³ capacity) for stems and branches, and 15 steel kilns (300 kg/batch capacity) for fruit husks and leaves. The biochar produced meets export quality standards, with a fixed carbon content ≥70.0%, ash content ≤3.0%, and calorific value ≥7,000 Kcal/kg. Additionally, biochar is combined with the biological agent Trichoderma to produce 1,000 tons of organic microbial fertilizer, surpassing national standards for organic matter content (≥15%) and Trichoderma density (≥1.0x10⁶ CFU/g). Biochar production from agricultural waste not only reduces waste but also contributes to sustainable agriculture in the Central Highlands. The research results show great potential for expanding biochar production models, improving soil health, reducing farming costs, and increasing farmers' income.

Assessing the grey water footprint of pesticide use in the Mendoza wine region (Argentina): implications for sustainable water resources management

This paper assesses the impact of viticulture on water resource quality in the Mendoza wine region using the grey water footprint (GWF) approach to estimate the amount of water required to dilute pesticides commonly used in local vineyards. Our analysis indicates that to progress towards sustainable water management in viticulture, limiting or replacing pesticides with high GWF values is essential. We provide detailed results for 24 fungicides, 7 insecticides, and 7 herbicides, assessed at both microregion and district levels, offering insights into pesticide impacts across both detailed and broader spatial scales. At the microregion level, the herbicide Fluroxypyr-meptyl was found to have the highest GWF (1.10 m³ kg-1), followed by the fungicide Fosetyl-aluminium (0.59 m³ kg-1) and the insecticide Imidacloprid (0.41 m³ kg-1). Our findings also show that pesticide impacts vary at the district level, highlighting the need for localised management strategies. Additionally, the significant variability in GWFs at the local level underscores the necessity for region-specific water quality standards to more accurately assess and manage the environmental impact of pesticide use. This study provides a framework for similar assessments in other viticultural regions, aiding in the development of more informed pesticide management to enhance water resource sustainability.

Two decades of population change in Saudi Arabia: Exploring effective redistribution strategies

Census 2022 of Saudi Arabia was released recently, with 12 years of intercensal interval. Although it appeared provisional having no reports similar to the 2010 census, efforts to analyze, interpret, disseminate, and discuss were essential for building structures and systems at par with demographic trends and patterns. An analysis was carried out with this census data compared to 2004 and 2010 to track population change—demographic pace, trends, and patterns—over the two decades. Data from all three censuses were analyzed with conventional demographic techniques. A reduction in growth was observed with a declining percentage of the childhood population but with an expanding percentage of the adults (working age) indicating a demographic dividend resulted, mostly, from fertility decline. An aging trend established by the previous censuses was lost, recently: the constriction of the pyramid of 2010 was changed to a different shape. Not only the percentage distribution trends were uneven but also the age-based indices. Thus, these trends revealed a demographic difference to an extent, that demands standardized reports, uniform procedures for the data collection and compilation, and geographic distribution equations. The increasing concentration in urban centers of major administrative areas—Al-Riyadh, Makkah Al-Mokarramah, and the Eastern Region demand redistribution policies. Self-contained townships appear as a strategic option in population redistribution, guaranteeing quality standards and lifestyle.