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The current research examines how the knowledge that a product is made using a traditional method influences perceptions of its quality. We propose that consumers believe that a brand using traditional methods is beneficial for society because it is concerned about cultural preservation and this belief has a positive effect on perceived quality. Six experimental studies show that consumers evaluate products produced with a method described as traditional to be higher in quality than similar products that are not described as traditionally made and this effect is mediated by the belief that the brand is beneficial for society. Consistent with this theory, the positive effect of traditional production on perceived quality is attenuated when consumers view the brand to be unconcerned about cultural preservation, such as when the use of a traditional method is framed as a follower strategy (i.e. it imitates the actions of other brands) or when the brand is a multinational company. By showing that the mere mention of a traditional method can be another subtle way to position a brand as a moral actor, these findings contribute to the understanding of the link between perceived social responsibility and product evaluations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article examines the relation between internal audit function (IAF) quality and investment efficiency, a recurring value-added corporate activity critical to firm survival and profitability. We argue that an IAF, unlike other information intermediaries, is uniquely positioned to have access to firm-specific, private information—particularly related to localized, firm-specific risks. If a more competent IAF incrementally improves the information that is generated and communicated to management (while not participating directly in decision-making), we should observe more productive capital investment decisions from firms with higher quality IAFs relative to firms with lower quality IAFs. Through this enhanced information channel, we find that IAF quality is associated with investment efficiency. This result holds for both under- and overinvestment, although not in tests of all subsamples. We also document that this effect is more pronounced for firms with more complexity and for firms with greater investment opportunities. Our evidence indicates that IAF quality provides measurable and economically meaningful value to an organization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents an evaluation of the usability, functionality, and usefulness of the Warehouse Error Prevention (WEP) tool that consists of seven modules. The WEP tool is framed in a simple yes/no form, which can be used to identify human factors related to sources of pick errors in a warehouse. Thirty-three participants in 27 organisations from three different countries participated in a trial application and evaluation of the tool. The evaluation included a survey study and semi-structured interviews. Survey results show that participants agreed on the usability and functionality of the WEP tool. In the interviews, participants generally reported the WEP tool as being both accurate and functional with the potential to support engineers, ergonomists, and warehouse managers to improve order picking quality. Further quantitative field testing of the WEP tool's potential to identify costly warehouse errors is needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study documented three domains of journal research quality using metrics from six major publishers and two major database services for a large sample of kinesiology-related journals: Rigor/soundness, usage, and prestige. All journal metrics were highly skewed and variable. Median acceptance rates and initial review time were consistent with rigorous peer-review. Four variables were strongly interrelated (0.849 < r < 0.963) and indicate typical usage of 1 to 3 citations for articles in these journals. The 5-year Eigenfactor Score had a relatively weaker association (0.510 < r < 0.758) with the usage metrics, supporting it as an estimate of the prestige afforded these kinesiology journals in Scopus instead of usage. Care must be taken to interpret multiple journal metrics; taking into account the skew, large variability, and confounding factors such as journal size and subject. Differences across quality domains, metrics, and bias from numerous contextual factors refute the insidious misuse of any single journal metric as quality indictor for ranking journals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

U.S. equity exchanges have experienced a dramatic increase in competition from new entrants, resulting in the fragmentation of trading across venues. While market quality has generally improved over this period, we show most of the improvements have accrued to the largest stocks. We then show this bifurcation in market quality is related to the fragmentation of trading. Theoretically, more exchange competition should reduce trading costs, yet it may also increase adverse selection for liquidity providers, leading to higher spreads. We document evidence of both effects (fragmentation improves market quality for large stocks while small stocks experience relatively worse quality). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Changing customer requirements and turbulent markets require suitably adapted capabilities to proactively cope with rapid changes. Agile manufacturing emerged in the late 1990s as a competitive concept to respond to these business challenges. While several seminal research works address agility in terms of concept definition, drivers and strategic capabilities, there is a lack of implementation frameworks of agile manufacturing. The current paper is concerned with the question of how to improve the agility of manufacturing companies. To address this question, a framework is iteratively developed with the aim of supporting decision makers in planning and implementing agility improvement projects. To this end, Design Science Research (DSR) methodology is used in conjunction with CIMO-logic (Context, Intervention, Mechanism, Outcome). The iterative development of the framework relies heavily on insights from case studies and from practitioners in the broad manufacturing sector. The paper provides evidence of the validity of the framework as well as outlining further research perspectives. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Statistical Process Control (SPC) is employed to support the effective quality performance of production and manufacturing processes. The control chart is a type of SPC utilized to reduce variability in key quality parameters, leading to the production of quality conforming products. Control charts, such as the Exponentially Weighted Moving Average (EWMA) are widely used to reduce variation, improve productivity, and ensure quality. However, small manufacturers face challenges that may prevent their effective use of quality control charts. One such challenge relates to resource constraints. These constraints tend to inhibit the conduct of quality inspections at high rates. With this in mind, the present study sets out to develop and present an improved EWMA control chart for effective quality control that takes into consideration significant resource constraints in a small aluminium manufacturing firm. The findings suggest that adopting the improved EWMA chart can enhance the detection of any increase in defectives without the need for additional resources. The improved EWMA control chart provides small manufacturers with an enhanced quality conforming tool developed based on practical realities. Implications for both practice and theory are also highlighted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wire Arc Additive Manufacturing (WAAM) is a metal arc welding additive process that allows the production of large parts. Managing the quality of produced parts is a key challenge to the adoption of this technology in the industry. A particular case of this is the production of aluminum thin walls and the management of their thicknesses. Literature supports that the use of a near-infrared camera is a good way to monitor the meltpool shape to predict the manufactured thickness. Nevertheless, the post-processing applied to the image has a big influence on the accuracy of the measure. That is why, this article proposes a method to qualify image post-processing for thin wall thickness prediction from near-infrared camera images of aluminum WAAM process. A dataset from the literature is used to evaluate the accuracy of different post-processes. First, a method is proposed to evaluate the accuracy of a given post-process. Secondly, two types of post-processing are presented: post-processing based on conventional image processing and post-processing based on neural networks. Their accuracy is evaluated with the proposed method. The article concludes that the proposed method is adapted to qualify post-processes and that the proposed post-processing based on neural networks gives significant results in terms of accuracy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The green fodder deficit is the biggest bottleneck for livestock productivity in semi-arid regions, especially for resource-poor farmers. Low-cost climate-smart hydroponic chamber (CSHC) based hydroponic fodder production provides a viable solution under such an environment. A CSHC equipped with a fan pad-based evaporative cooling system, controlled drip watering system and smart air exhaust system was designed and developed at ICAR-IGFRI, Jhansi, India with the aim of modifying the inside growth environment of the chamber for improved production of quality fodder. The developed CSHC was capable of maintaining daily average temperature and relative humidity in the range of 23-280C and 87-90%, respectively, with an average cooling efficiency of 78.3%. This efficient cooling was an outcome of specialized CSHC designed with an effective covering material (UV stabilized 200 µm LDPE), shade net with 70% shading efficiency, fan pad-based evaporative cooling system, controlled drip watering system, and smart air exhaust system; which enabled ambient environment conducive for optimum plant growth. Among the different treatment combinations of seed loading rates and soaking hours, the highest maize biomass yield of 2.58 kg/ft2 was achieved after seven days with a seed loading rate of 300 g/ft2 when the seed was soaked for 12 h. At the highest productivity of biomass, the values of dry matter, crude protein, and crude fiber contents were found as 13.51%, 13.71%, and 15.12% respectively. The benefit-cost ratio of the developed CSHC was 1.32 with a payback period of 3.12 years. The developed CSHC was found productive and profitable; hence, it can create a great impact in achieving feed security under resource deficit conditions of climate-change-affected semi-arid regions across the globe. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of GeSec: Revista de Gestao e Secretariado is the property of Sindicato das Secretarias e Secretarios do Estado de Sao Paulo (SINSESP) and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Osmotic processes play a crucial role in developing high-quality intermediate moisture food products. This study investigates the role of osmotic dehydration focusing on using natural sweeteners to reduce health risks from refined sugar. Jaggery and honey were used for osmosis of papaya cubes, with a Box-Behnken design to determine optimal conditions: osmosis temperature (30, 40, 50 °C), osmotic solution concentration (40, 50, 60°Brix), and osmosis time (3, 4, 5 h). Simultaneous optimization of these parameters considered responses such as water loss, solid gain, weight reduction, colour change, ascorbic acid content, lycopene content, and phenolic content. The optimized conditions were identified as 49.46 °C, 40°Brix, and 5 h for jaggery osmosed samples and 39.64 °C, 60°Brix, and 4.92 h for honey osmosed samples. Drying the osmosed samples using advanced domestic solar dryer revealed superior quality (total phenolic content and lycopene content) in jaggery osmosed papaya compared to honey osmosed papaya. The study suggests that introducing a new osmotic agent, jaggery, can enhance the nutritional value of osmosed papaya cubes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Preprints are scientific articles that have not undergone the peer-review process. They allow the latest evidence to be rapidly shared, however it is unclear whether they can be confidently used for decision-making during a public health emergency. This study aimed to compare the data and quality of preprints released during the first four months of the 2022 mpox outbreak to their published versions. Methods: Eligible preprints (n = 76) posted between May to August 2022 were identified through an established mpox literature database and followed to July 2024 for changes in publication status. Quality of preprints and published studies was assessed by two independent reviewers to evaluate changes in quality, using validated tools that were available for the study design (n = 33). Tools included the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale; Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies 2 (QUADAS-2); and JBI Critical Appraisal Checklists. The questions in each tool led to an overall quality assessment of high quality (no concerns with study design, conduct, and/or analysis), moderate quality (minor concerns) or low quality (several concerns). Changes in data (e.g. methods, outcomes, results) for preprint-published pairs (n = 60) were assessed by one reviewer and verified by a second. Results: Preprints and published versions that could be evaluated for quality (n = 25 pairs) were mostly assessed as low quality. Minimal to no change in quality from preprint to published was identified: all observational studies (10/10), most case series (6/7) and all surveillance data analyses (3/3) had no change in overall quality, while some diagnostic test accuracy studies (3/5) improved or worsened their quality assessment scores. Among all pairs (n = 60), outcomes were often added in the published version (58%) and less commonly removed (18%). Numerical results changed from preprint to published in 53% of studies, however most of these studies (22/32) had changes that were minor and did not impact main conclusions of the study. Conclusions: This study suggests the minimal changes in quality, results and main conclusions from preprint to published versions supports the use of preprints, and the use of the same critical evaluation tools on preprints as applied to published studies, in decision-making during a public health emergency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The impact of hot air drying temperature on instant dough sheets' qualities was investigated based on water migration and gluten network structure changes. The results revealed that the drying process redistributed the hydrogen proton, with deeply bound water accounting for more than 90%. The T2 value decreased as the drying temperature increased, effectively restricting moisture mobility. Meanwhile, microstructural analysis indicated that instant dough sheets presented porous structures, which significantly reduced the rehydration time of instant dough sheets (p < 0.05). In addition, elevated drying temperatures contributed to the cross-linking of proteins, as evidenced by increased GMP and disulfide bond content (reaching a maximum at 80 °C), which improved the texture and cooking properties. Hence, the water mobility was effectively reduced by controlling the drying temperature. The temperature had a facilitating impact on promoting the aggregation of the gluten network structure, which improved the quality of the instant dough sheets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study looks at the impact that the three dimensions of financial inclusion (FI) (i.e., access, usage, quality) may have on poverty alleviation. In doing so, the study relies on demand and supply-side data to measure Nigeria's FI. The demand-side data were derived from the 2021 Global Findex data, and the supply side data were sourced from the IMF Access survey database (2004–2021). The supply-side data were analysed using the ordinary least squares regression (OLS), while the demand-side data were analysed using the probit regression model. The study outcomes revealed a negative and significant relationship between financial access and poverty rate, further indicating that those who use financial services are less likely to experience poverty. The study recommends that financial service providers tailor their financial products to align with the educational level of the target population to encourage savings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the growing awareness among entrepreneurs and consumers within the tourism industry regarding the field of sustainable development, it seems necessary to base hotel classification systems on an integrated approach to management quality, including the fulfillment of ecological and environmental criteria. However, this topic has yet to be recognized in the literature, especially concerning the European market. Therefore, this article aims to fill this research gap and indicate how environmental standards have been implemented in the European system of hotel classification—Hotelstars Union (HSU)—and that in force in Poland. With regard to these systems, the differences in the classification criteria taken into account by the certifying organizations in the European Union (EU) and the administrative hotel categorization system in Poland are pointed out. Particular emphasis is placed on the criteria related to environmental management in the hotel industry. The criteria related to environmental management were identified through an analysis of the criteria of eight environmental management systems that are applicable to the contemporary hotel industry. The results of this research prove that, even though the HSU system takes the principles of sustainable development into account to a much greater extent than the Polish system, its primary weakness is that most of its criteria related to the environment are optional. In addition, the optional criteria have higher weights than the obligatory ones. In turn, the Polish classification system makes very little reference to environmental standards. Moreover, it is not detailed, and the assessment criteria are not up to date. Therefore, it is recommended that a greater number of environmental criteria be included in the next update of the HSU system, which should be obligatory for hotels to meet. In addition, the sustainability criteria included in the HSU system should be adapted to the policy system aimed at the hotel industry in Poland and other EU countries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of China Condiment is the property of China Condiment and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of China Condiment is the property of China Condiment and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Meat delicatessen products, including pâtés, are important for consumers' daily diets. However, due to the complex recipe composition, pâtés can also contain allergens such as gluten. Simultaneously, powdered edible insects are increasingly used to reformulate food products. Therefore, the paper aimed to investigate the feasibility of replacing wheat flour (total content: 9% w/w) with yellow mealworm powder (3:0, 2:1, 1:2, and 0:3) in chicken and pork pâtés and determine its effect on their quality properties. The rheological properties of pâté batter, as well as texture, color parameters, and microbiological and sensory characteristics of pâtés, were assessed. All prepared pâté batters were identified as weak gels. Furthermore, all the examined pâtés met the microbiological quality requirements. Adding yellow mealworm powder to the formulation weakened the pâté structure, resulting in significantly lower shear force and increased spreadability. In addition, it led to a darker and more gray color of the pâtés. It may be seen as indicating no preservatives or as resembling a typical pork pâté. It has been demonstrated that the complete replacement of wheat flour with insect powder significantly reduced the sensory quality of chicken and pork pâtés. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Milk has been a dietary staple around the world for centuries. In recent years, consumer interest in healthy foods and organic products has increased due to their health-promoting properties. Fermented dairy products, including yoghurt, are receiving special attention for their properties and the presence of probiotic bacteria. The quantitative and qualitative (MALDI TOF MS) evaluation of lactic acid bacteria (LAB) in different types of yoghurt (with different shelf lives) was carried out. The effect of the Lactobacillus spp. strains isolated from yoghurts (with potential antimicrobial activity) against foodborne pathogenic bacteria (Escherichia coli, Salmonella Enteritidis and Listeria monocytogenes) was evaluated. The presence of Lactobacillus spp. (Lactobacillus rhamnosus and Lactobacillus paracasei) in the tested yoghurts was demonstrated. In the samples tested, not all the lactic acid bacteria (LAB) declared by the manufacturer were identified. The number of live bacteria present in the product was influenced by the type of yoghurt. The number of bacteria did not fall below the World Health Organization (WHO) recommended level by the last day of validity. It was shown that a mixed culture (L. rhamnosus and L. paracasei, isolated from tested yoghurts) had the most significant effect on changing the number of pathogenic microorganisms. The consumption of dairy products, which are a source of LAB, can reduce the risk of foodborne pathogen infections. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To develop a new method for the sterilization of fresh-cut lettuce, plasma-activated water (PAW) combined with dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) plasma technology was applied in this study. Response surface methodological approach was performed to determine the optimal sterilization process parameters. Meanwhile, the microbial count, color, browning degree, firmness and weight loss rate were evaluated to investigate the effects of combined cold plasma treatments on the qualities of fresh-cut lettuce during the storage. Results showed that the total viable bacteria count on the surface of freshcut lettuce was (0.48±0.07) lg CFU/g under the optimal treatment conditions when PAW preparation time was 130 s, PAW soaking time was 5 min, and DBD plasma treatment time was 135 s. Moreover, during 7 days of storage, the combined cold plasma treatments could effectively inhibit the growth of microorganisms, maintain the color and firmness of fresh-cut lettuce, delay the increase of weight loss rate, and inhibit the occurrence of browning, which would effectively prolong the shelf life of fresh-cut lettuce. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Agricultural systems strongly impact ecosystems by driving terrestrial degradation, water depletion, and climate change. The Life Cycle Assessment allows for comprehensive analyses of the environmental impacts of food production. Nonetheless, its application still faces challenges due to cropping systems' increased complexity and multifunctionality. Past research has emphasized the need for more holistic approaches to consider dynamic crop interactions and diverse functions of cropping systems, beyond just meeting the demand for foods and feeds. In this context, this study applied an alternative combined and multifunctional modelling approach to compare the environmental performances of two durum wheat cropping systems. The latter differed in crop rotation schedules, farming methods, tillage techniques, and genotypes grown (including both modern and old ones). Novel methodological choices were adopted in this study, aiming at best representing the complexity and peculiarities of these systems, by considering crop rotation effects and reflecting the main durum wheat stakeholders' perspectives. The results showed that the organic low-input landrace-growing system (Case 1) had considerably lower environmental impacts than the conventional high-input one (Case 2), regardless of the functional unit. The environmental hotspots were the increased land occupation and the bare fallow for Case 1 and Case 2, respectively. At the endpoint level, the most affected impact categories for both the systems of analysis were land use, fine particulate matter formation, global warming (human health), and human non-carcinogenic toxicity. Also, the midpoint analysis pointed out important differences in terms of other assessed impact categories, with Case 1 better performing for the majority of them. The identified improvement solutions include the following: the enhancement of the yield performances and the optimization of nitrogen provision from the leguminous crop for Case1, the shift toward a more efficient rotational scheme, the reduction of the use of external inputs, and the avoidance of unnecessary soil tillage operations for Case 2. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aim: Diagnostic performance of esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) may be compromized due to adherent mucus and foam. In this study, we aimed at assessing the impact of premedication on mucosal visibility during endoscopy. Methods: This is a double-blinded (patient and investigator), randomized trial conducted at a tertiary care centre. Patients were randomized into four groups: A (water), B (simethicone [S]), C (N-acetyl cysteine [NAC]), D (S + NAC). Premedication solutions were administered 10-30 minutes before endoscopy and mucosal visibility graded from 1 (best) to 4 (worst) (1 best, 4 worst). Total mucosal visibility scores (TMVS) from six sites ranged from 6 (best) to 24 (worst) points. The primary outcome of study was comparison of TMVS between simethicone and combination (S + NAC) premedication groups. Secondary outcomes were adverse events and impact of endoscopy timing on TMVS. Results: Total 800 patients (39 years, 68.8% males) were randomized into four groups. Median TMVS were significantly lower in groups B (7 [6-8]) and D (8 [6-9]) as compared to A (11 [9-13]) and C (10 [8-12]). Proportion of cases with adequate gastric mucosal visibility (score < 7) was 26% in group A, 71% in group B, 36% in group C and 79% in group D. There was no difference in TMVS in groups A and C (p = 0.137). TMVS were significantly lower in late (> 20-30 minutes) vs. early (10–20 minutes) endoscopy sub-group (8 [7–11] vs, 9 ([7–11], p = 0.001). However, TMVS were similar between group B and group D in early endoscopy group (p = 0.451). There was no significant difference in the lesion detection rate among the different premedication drugs (p > 0.05). Conclusions: Premedication with simethicone or combination (simethicone and NAC) significantly improves mucosal visibility during EGD. If early endoscopy is indicated, simethicone provides similar mucosal visibility and may be an effective alternative to combined premedication. Trial registration: NCT05951712. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We analysed the full text of all journal articles returned to the education subpanel of the 2021 Research Excellence Framework (REF2021). Using a latent Dirichlet allocation topic model, we identified 35 topics that collectively summarise the journal articles that research units, typically schools of education, selected for submission. We found that the topics which units wrote about in their submitted articles collectively explained a large proportion (84.1%) of the variance in the quality assessments they received from the REF's expert peer review process. Further, with the important caveat that we cannot attribute causality, we found that there were strong associations between what the subpanel perceived to be excellent research and the adoption of particular methods or approaches. Most notably, units that returned more interview‐based work typically received lower scores, and those which returned more analyses of large‐scale data and meta‐analyses typically received higher scores. Finally, we applied our 2021 model to articles submitted to the previous exercise, REF2014. We found that education research seems to have become less qualitative and more quantitative over time, and that our 2021 model could successfully predict the scores assigned by the REF2014 subpanel, suggesting a reasonable degree of between‐exercise consistency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This systematic literature review aims to synthesize, organize, and structure the stock of knowledge relating to Leadership and Quality Management using the systematic literature review method. The authors have identified the main trends and possible gaps requiring further studies, providing a starting point for researchers and practitioners. The research is based on a systematic literature review of 162 papers that were published on Leadership and Quality Management topics in the past 40 years. The key findings show that Leadership is a critical success factor for launching and sustaining a Quality Management deployment in organizations. We have also identified several gaps in the literature that will require further research on the Leadership traits more conducive to a successful implementation of Quality Management – our research will aim to determine how these traits vary across industries, national cultures, organizational sizes and different levels in the management hierarchy, and lay out the foundation of a Leadership Maturity Model for Quality Management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: In this study, sesame hull oil (SHO) was extracted to characterise its composition. SHO was heated to determine the volatiles and their effect on the quality of cold‐pressed dehulled sesame oil (SO). Seventeen fatty acids, four lignans (1088.65 mg/100 g), tocopherols (284.17 mg/100 g) mainly in the γ‐form, and sterol (1722.16 mg/100 g, 4.67 times more than in sesame kernel oil) were detected in SHO. After heating, the volatiles found in SHO were mainly aldehydes and acids, represented by hexanal (fatty, green aroma) and 3‐methyl‐butanoic acid (fatty, rancid aroma), respectively. The acid value, peroxide value, anisidine value, and turbidity of SO increased significantly after adding SHO, and the scavenging ability of 2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) was enhanced. The oxidation induction times of SO with the addition of SHO ranged from 8.93 to 9.53 h. The present study provides information about SHO and a new direction for the utilisation of sesame hulls. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: The application of edible films can be an alternative solution for maintaining the quality of post‐harvest horticultural commodities. This study aimed to determine the effect of adding a stabiliser, cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs), on the functional characteristics of citrus peel pectin and limonene essential oil (LEO)‐based coatings. A formulation comprising pectin (0.5%), CNC (0.075%) and LEO (0.5%) was prepared. The CNC morphology (nanometre scale) was nanorods with pointed ends on both sides, revealed with atomic force microscopy. Gas chromatography–mass‐spectrometry verified the main component of LEO, d‐limonene. All prepared film‐forming solution showed good stability with zeta potential values ranging from −76.34 to −35.33 mV. The developed film had a rougher surface due to the presence of oil aggregates and CNC agglomeration during film preparation. The addition of Pickering emulsion showed improvements in terms of mechanical properties (tensile strength 23.61 MPa, and elongation 65.87%), water barrier and the film clarity compared with regular emulsions with synthetic surfactants. It effectively inhibited the growth of harmful microbes that cause the rotting of fresh fruits, i.e., Penicilium digitatum, by 3.87% and 14.83% compared to the conventional emulsion and pectin‐based film, respectively, through the well diffusion test method. Thus, the combination of pectin/CNC/LEO can be used as an alternative active coating for fresh fruit commodities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Changes in the different stages of fruit processing are becoming a differentiating factor in coffee quality. Currently, generating delays in the processing of the fruit, that is, reserve, is a practice that can modify the sensory profile of the beverage. In this study, the fruit was reserved in three stages of maturity, two temperatures (15° and 20°C) and at two timepoints (24 and 48 h), establishing its chemical composition and sensory characteristics using analytical techniques such as liquid and gas chromatography. The state of maturity 1 showed an effect on malic and quinic acids due to the interaction of temperature and reserve time, while stage of maturity 3 showed an effect on glucose and fructose. The state of maturity 2 showed an effect of the reserve time on the same compounds of states 1 and 3, in addition to the content of defective beans and sucrose. The sensory quality expressed as the total SCA (Specialty Coffee Association) score and the attributes did not show treatments effect, the reserve of the fruit under the evaluated conditions presents an effect on the descriptors of the flavor. Extending the fruit reserve time from 24 to 48 h showed an increase in the groups of flavor descriptors associated with fruit and red fruits from 33.33 to 66.66% and from 34.04 to 65.95%. This implies that the constituent parts of the fruit such as the exocarp and mesocarp interact with the bean, leading to changes in the chemical composition and the improvement of the qualitative complexity of the sensory quality. This is a consequence of the increase in the frequency of the flavor descriptors of the fruit and red fruit category. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Yield and quality improvements in Canada Western Red Spring (CWRS) wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) are increasingly difficult to attain, which behooves a systems approach to unlock genotype (G) × environment (E) × management (M) synergies. This 25 site-year study was designed to assess a G × E × M systems approach to improve CWRS agronomics, quality, and N use efficiency (NUE). The investigation consisted of genetics (AAC Viewfield vs. AC Stettler), N source (untreated urea; urea + urease inhibitor, N-(n-butyl) thiophosphoric triamide (NBPT); urea + nitrification inhibitor, nitrapyrin; urea + dual-inhibitor (NBPT + dicyandiamide); and polymer-coated) and N timing/placement (all-banded at planting, two-split applications and three-split applications), deployed across diverse soil zones in western Canada. Differential yield responses were observed between cultivars as AAC Viewfield produced superior yield over AC Stettler (+4.3%) in black and grey soils, while yield attainment was similar in dark brown soils. Genetic improvement over AC Stettler seemed most apparent in water abundant environments; however, AC Stettler was often superior in drier conditions. All N sources produced comparable outcomes for yield, quality, NUE, and net returns. In black and grey soils, adopting either all-banded or two-splits improved grain yield due to augmented seedling vigor, heads per plant, and N recovery. The timing of split-applications introduces more risk to yield and is likely attributed to a poorly developed source:sink relationship in the critical growth period if applied late to optimize grain protein. This highlights the complexity of the system and balance needed to harness the potential synergy between G, E, and M components. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the effect of maltodextrin, powdered sugar, and corn starch carrier agents used at different ratios (5% and 10%) in the convective dryer at 65 ºC and hybrid dryer (microwave + convective) at 350 W + 65 ºC to produce blackberry powder was investigated. Drying kinetics, energy analyses, physical, flow properties, and biochemical analyses of blackberry powder production processes were investigated. Drying rates in drying processes varied between 0.0052–0.0477 g moisture/g dry matter minute. Effective moisture diffusion values were determined between 3.36 × 10–8-2.57 × 10–7 m2/s. Specific moisture absorption rate and specific energy consumption values were found to vary between 0.0019–0.0034 kg/kWh and 237.15–530.00 kWh/kg, respectively. Tapped density was determined in the range of 1.666–2.765 g/ml, while bulk density was determined in the range of 1.319–1.937 g/ml. The wettability values of blackberry powders were found to vary between 2.00–27.67 s. Drying processes did not preserve the color values of fresh blackberry puree (p < 0.05). In bioactive findings, total phenol content values were 16.756–25.876 µg GAE/g−1 dw, total monomeric anthocyanin values were 229–1.469 µg cy−3-glu/g−1 dw, total flavonoid values 3.958–5.080 mg KE/kg dw and total antioxidant activity values 406–500 µmol TE/g−1 dw. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Satisfaction of 81 patients was evaluated before and after receiving occupational therapy services. There was a statistically significant difference between patients' scores before and after receiving occupational therapy services (p <.05). Over 85% indicated a high satisfaction in relation to quality and health outcomes attributed to occupational therapy services, 44% reported barriers related to limited availability, accessibility, and knowledge of occupational therapy services, and 35% made suggestions for improvements. Patient-therapist communication and easy access to occupational therapy services can enhance occupational therapy knowledge, lead to positive patient experience and quality health outcomes, and higher patient satisfaction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Neonatal health is one of the targets for the sustainable development goals (SDGs) that aim to reduce neonatal mortality to at least as low as 12 per 1 000 live births in 2030. However, the world is not on track to achieve this target. The problem has worsened in many low-income countries, including Ethiopia, due to a fragile health system, as well as health crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic, conflict, food insecurity and climate change. According to the Mini Ethiopian Demographic Health Survey, neonatal mortality is unacceptably high in Ethiopia in general, and in Amhara region in particular. Despite these facts, there is a paucity of information on the quality of neonatal health service provision in comprehensive specialized hospitals in Amhara region. Therefore, this study is aimed at assessing the quality of neonatal health services in terms of outcome (neonatal mortality) and its causes in comprehensive specialized hospitals in Amhara region. Methods: A multi-center retrospective study was conducted (from September 1–30/2022) on 315 neonates in four comprehensive hospitals with chart review. Data were collected through death audit with standardized neonatal death audit tool. Data were entered into Epi-data 3.1 and exported to SPSS 20 for analysis. Descriptive analysis was used to describe and summarize the data in an informative manner. Results: From 315 neonatal deaths, about two-thirds, 205 (65.1%), were from rural areas. Nearly half, 151 (48%), of the mothers had complications and delivered outside a health facility. About 36 (11.4%), 45 (14.3%), and 21 (6.7%) neonates' mothers had 1st, 2nd, and 3rd delays, respectively. About 59 (19%) of mothers had membrane rupture before the onset of labor and 23 (7.3%) had meconium-stained liquor. Almost three-fourths, 226 (71.7%), of the deaths were low birth weight (< 2500 gram). About 25 (8%) of neonates had congenital anomalies, 65% of them had fast breathing and 54.6% were preterm. Conclusion: Higher proportions of neonatal deaths were observed among neonates with rural residence, low birth weight, mothers' complications and neonates admitted for fast breathing. Histories of abortion, complications, congenital anomalies, and the 3 delays contributed to neonatal deaths. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Healthy Longevity Medicine aims to optimize health by targeting aging processes across the lifespan. Addressing accelerated aging involves adaptation of lifestyle and the use of geroprotective drugs and supplements, including nutritional supplements and bioactive compounds. The Food and Drug Administration, under the Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act, categorizes bioactive compounds and medicinal products as dietary supplements. While numerous companies sell ingredients that can be deemed geroprotectors, there's limited oversight in their quality control. Governmental safety authorities only verify the presence of prohibited compounds, not the accuracy of ingredients listed on labels. Here, Nicotinamide mononucleotide and Urolithin A supplements, easily accessible online or in pharmacies, were tested for their active ingredient content. Results showed a significant deviation from the labeled amounts, ranging from + 28.6% to -100%. This indicates a considerable disparity in the quality of geroprotective supplements. To address this variability, collaboration between and within societies representing healthcare professionals, industry and regulatory bodies is imperative to ensure the quality of geroprotective supplements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Monatsschrift Kinderheilkunde is the property of Springer Nature and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Acibadem Saglik Bilimleri Dergisi is the property of Acibadem University Medical School and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Social networks have become a widely used and accessible source of health-related information for patients, but this material is not always accurate or appropriate. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the quality of orthodontic information available on 2 of the most popular social media platforms. The authors conducted a systematic search of the literature that analyzed the quality of information regarding orthodontics on social networks and used recognized quality-evaluation methods, such as DISCERN, modified DISCERN, and the Quality Global Scale or the Video Information Quality Index, in the electronic databases of PubMed, Embase, and Scopus and through a manual search of gray literature. The authors identified a total of 534 potentially eligible articles, of which 22 eventually were included in the qualitative analysis. The application of the scales revealed that most of the content was of insufficient quality and lacked scientific rigor, precision, and support from reliable sources. The authors observed marked heterogeneity in the nature of the publications analyzed, with the most recurrent topics being general orthodontic treatment and the use of clear aligners. Social media platforms provide low-quality information to patients, which potentially can be harmful. These findings underscore the need to offer alternative ways to resolve patient queries before and during treatment and highlight the importance of promoting informed and responsible education regarding online information on orthodontic treatments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work summarizes the application of gas fumigation technology in postharvest fruit quality management and related biochemical mechanisms in recent years. Gas fumigants mainly include SO2, ClO2, ozone, NO, CO, 1-MCP, essential oils, H2S and ethanol. This work indicated that gas fumigation preservatives can effectively improve postharvest fruit quality, which is mainly manifested in delaying senescence, inhibiting browning, controlling disease and alleviating chilling injury. Gas preservatives are mainly involved in postharvest fruit quality control in the roles of antifungal agent, anti-browning agent, redox agent, ethylene inhibitors, elicitor and pesticide remover. Different gas preservatives have different roles, but most of them have multiple roles at the same time in postharvest fruit quality management. In addition, the role of some gas preservatives with direct antifungal activity in the control of postharvest fruit diseases can also activate defense systems to improve fruit resistance. It should be noted that some gas fumigation treatments with slow-release effects have been developed recently, which may allow gas fumigation gases to perform better. Moreover, some gas fumigants can cause irrational side effects on the fruit and some combined treatments need to be found to counteract such side effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Chirurgie (2731-6971) is the property of Springer Nature and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Peach production in China uses large inputs of mineral fertilizers but lower inputs of organic fertilizers, resulting in decreased peach quality and increased environmental risks. This study investigated the effects of formula fertilizers (combined organic and inorganic fertilizers) on peach yield, quality, and carbon and nitrogen footprints using three peach cultivars in two consecutive years. Two types of formula fertilizers had positive effects on improving the peach yield (5.6–13.6%), single fruit weight (9.0–32.5%), transverse diameter (3.6–13%) and longitudinal diameter (5.4–21.6%). Also, these fertilizers increased soluble solids (7.2–36.6%) and vitamin C (7.1–78%). In addition, the carbon footprint of peach decreased by 37–49%. This study demonstrates the potential of formula fertilizers to achieve balance between peach quality and environmental health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To seek the optimal combination of water–air for drip irrigation processing tomatoes in Northern Xinjiang, China, field experiments consisted of four irrigation levels, and two types of gas-filling methods were proposed. Throughout the whole growth period, the water consumption by physical aeration and chemical aeration increased by 13.65% and 9.27%, respectively compared with the nonaerated treatment. Under the conditions of physical aeration, the processing tomato fruit yield and irrigation water use efficiency (IWUE) increased by 8.14% and 4.74%; while by chemical aeration, they increased by 7.91% and 4.61%, respectively. Physical aeration had the most prominent role in increasing the contents of organic acid, soluble solids, soluble sugar, lycopene, and VC in processing tomatoes. The presented indicators show that the effect of physical aeration was better than that of chemical aeration. Physical aeration in combination with different irrigation levels, the 4,950 m3·hm−2 irrigation level gave the highest yield of processing tomato, whereas the highest IWUE was obtained in the 4,500 m3·hm−2 irrigation treatment, and the quality parameters of processing tomatoes at the 4,500 m3·hm−2 irrigation level performed better than those at the 4,950 m3·hm−2 irrigation level. To take into account the requirements of processing tomatoes for maximum IWUE and fruit yield and quality, the entropy weight method was used to determine that the irrigation water volume of 4,500 m3·hm−2 under the conditions of physical aeration can be used as a suitable water and air combination pattern for processing tomatoes in drip irrigation in Northern Xinjiang. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High quality laboratory results are critical for patient management. However, poor sample quality can impact these results and patient safety. To ensure reliable and accurate results laboratories must be aware of each analyte's stability under various storage conditions and matrices to guarantee correct and dependable outcomes. This knowledge allows laboratories to define the allowable delay between sample collection and centrifugation/analysis for all analytes to guarantee appropriate results quality and interpretation. The EFLM Working Group for the Preanalytical Phase (WG-PRE) therefore established a 4-step plan to tackle this issue, aiming to standardize and harmonize stability studies for improved comparison and meta-analysis. The plan included the development of checklists and how-to guides for performing and reporting stability studies as well as a central resource of stability data. This manuscript deals with the issue of evaluating publications and incorporating them into a central resource. To evaluate stability studies, the CRESS checklist was used to structure 20 sections used to judge the quality of studies. Each section has 4 levels of quality, with scores converted to numerical values and weighted based on expert opinion. Based on this, a final score ranging from A to D was determined. The procedure was then tested on six manuscripts and checked for agreement between expert judgements. The results demonstrated that the proposed evaluation process is a useful tool to distinguish between best in class manuscripts and those of lower quality. The EFLM WG-PRE strongly believes that the provided recommendations and checklists will help improving stability studies both in quality and standardisation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Child care quality rating and improvement systems exist to inform child care decisions and improve the quality of care. While previous research has shown QRIS have effects on quality, less is known about how child care providers vary in engagement and improvement within QRIS. In a voluntary QRIS, it is important to understand how providers vary in motivation, engagement, and progress within the system. Objective: Identify provider characteristics and attitudes that predict QRIS quality advancement. Identify and describe provider subgroups whose rates of quality improvement were different. Method: A random sample of providers (N = 179) and their coaches were interviewed five times over 2 years. The outcome was change in QRIS levels. Predictors were type of care, personal/professional characteristics, QRIS motivation, and coach perceptions of provider motivation and likelihood to advance. Linear regression was used to model change in QRIS level over five time points. Latent profile analysis was used to sort providers into classes. Results: Significant overall predictors of QRIS change were providers' education level and fewer years of experience, and coach's perception of the provider's likelihood to advance. Four subgroups in the latent profile analysis varied by rate of advancement, type of care, education, experience, professional engagement, QRIS motivation, and general readiness to change. Conclusions: Results point to the importance of assessing early and continuing attitudes, engagement, professionalization, and education of participating child care providers. The incentives and needs of providers in most QRIS will vary widely. Technical support geared to provider characteristics will be more effective in improving within QRIS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This chapter was based on a case study of a selected University in Zimbabwe. It was particularly concerned with modes of blended learning during the COVID-19 era and assessing if these modes were effective. The World health Organisation (WHO) declared a global health emergency based on the virus. The COVID-19 pandemic brought with it a national lockdown which compelled universities to blend their teaching instruction. Universities were no longer able to congregate students all at once; hence learning had to be sustained through online means when students were not physically on campus. Although universities invested in ICTs, and insisted on blended learning to ensure that teaching and learning took place amidst COVID-19, they were beset with many challenges. This chapter covers the study period from March 2020 to April 2021. The study assumed a qualitative approach and case study design. Data was collected through interviews and questionnaires. The same was presented and analysed in a thematic approach. The findings of the study revealed that although learning did take place through blended learning, the effectiveness of learning through this mode was questionable as the quality of learning was compromised. The most widely used online learning modes which were blended with face- to-face interaction were Google Classroom, Zoom and WhatsApp. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Software evolution is an essential foundation in delivering technology that adapts to user needs and industry dynamics. In an era of rapid technological development, software evolution is not just a necessity, but a must to ensure long-term relevance. Developers are faced with major challenges in maintaining and improving software quality over time. This research aims to investigate the correlation between feature volatility and bug occurrence rate in software evolution, to understand the impact of dynamic feature changes on software quality and development process. The research method uses commit analysis on the dataset as a marker of bug presence, studying the complex relationship between feature volatility and bug occurrence rate to reveal the interplay in software development. Validated datasets are measured by metrics and correlations are measured by Pearson-productmoment analysis. This research found a strong relationship between feature volatility and bug occurrence rate, suggesting that an increase in feature changes correlates with an increase in bugs that impact software stability and quality. This research provides important insights into the correlation between feature volatility and bug occurrence rates, guiding developers and quality practitioners to develop more effective testing strategies in dynamic development environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Interest in mental health smartphone applications has grown in recent years. Despite their effectiveness and advantages, special attention needs to be paid to two aspects to ensure app engagement: to include patients and professionals in their design and to guarantee their usability. The aim of this study was to analyse the perceived usability and quality of the preliminary version of RegulEm, an app based in the Unified Protocol, as part of the second stage of the app development. Methods: A parallel mixed methods study was used with 7 professionals and 4 users who were previously involved in the first stage of the development of the app. MARS, uMARS and SUS scales were used, and two focus groups were conducted. Descriptive statistical analysis and a thematic content analysis were performed in order to gather as much information as possible on RegulEm's usability and quality as well as suggestions for improvement. Results: RegulEm's usability was perceived through the SUS scale scores as good by users (75 points) and excellent by professionals (84.64 points), while its quality was perceived through the uMARS and MARS scales as good by both groups, with 4 and 4.14 points out of 5. Different areas regarding RegulEm's usability and suggestions for improvement were identified in both focus groups and 20% of the suggestions proposed were implemented in the refined version of RegulEm. Conclusion: RegulEm's usability and quality were perceived as good by users and professionals and different identified areas have contributed to its refinement. This study provides a more complete picture of RegulEm's usability and quality prior analysing its effectiveness, implementation and cost-effectiveness in Spanish public mental health units. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Agricultural plastic film, as an important agricultural production material in the China Hexi Corridor oasis agricultural area, is widely used in the intensive production process of purple garlic, which plays an important role in increasing yield, improving quality, ensuring supply, etc. However, the difference in decomposition characteristics between ordinary plastic film and degradable plastic film may affect soil moisture and temperature, thereby affecting soil biochemical properties. Therefore, we conducted a study to solve this problem. Specifically, in the Minle area of the Hexi Corridor, we selected 10 moisture-maintaining measures of ordinary transparent plastic film, transparent oxo-biodegradable plastic film (50-, 80-, and 110-day induction period), ordinary black plastic film, black oxo-biodegradable plastic film (50-, 80-, and 110-day induction period), wheat straw, and aubergine-super absorbent polymers and used the traditional open field without super absorbent polymers as a control. To analyze the effects of different moisture-maintaining measures on soil quality, garlic yield and quality, and water-fertilizer productivity in purple garlic farmland, and conduct a comprehensive evaluation of moisture-maintaining measures using principal component analysis. The results showed that all the moisture-maintaining measures could increase garlic yield, improve bulb quality and water--fertilizer productivity, improve the soil hydrothermal conditions, maintain soil fertility, increase the microbial quantity, and improve enzyme activity. Overall, transparent plastic film mulching was superior to black plastic film mulching, straw mulching, and A-SAP, with 110-day transparent oxobiodegradable plastic film mulching being the most effective, and was not significantly different from the ordinary transparent plastic film. Compared with other moisture-maintaining measures, the yield, water productivity, irrigation water productivity, and nitrogen fertilizer partial factor productivity of purple garlic were significantly increased by 13.33% to 119.77%, 13.81% to 126.77%, 13.41% to 119.95%, and 13.33% to 119.76%, respectively. Meanwhile, the contents of allicin, soluble sugar, soluble protein, crude fiber, and amino acid content were increased by 1.44% to 14.66%, 4.64% to 36.46%, 0.38% to 28.27%, 1.89% to 26.29%, and 0.38% to 3.74%, and, due to the prolongation of oxo-biodegradable plastic film induction period, the soil microbial community changes from "fungi type" to "bacterium type," reducing the occurrence of soil diseases and improving soil quality. On the basis of the Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to an Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) method, the soil quality was evaluated, and the yield, quality, and water productivity of garlic were comprehensively evaluated under each moisture-maintaining measure using principal component analysis. It was determined that the best soil quality and better bulb quality as well as higher garlic yield and water productivity were obtained when using the 110-day induction period transparent oxo-biodegradable plastic film. It can be used as a more reasonable moisture-maintaining measure and technical reference for the purple garlic industry in the China Hexi Corridor oasis agricultural area, which can ensure the improvement of quality and stabilization of yield and also solve the risk of environmental pollution caused by plastic film mulching at the source. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: In semiarid tropical locations, polyhalite (K2Ca2Mg(SO4)4H2O) and muriate potash (KCl) were tested for their ability to increase cane growth, yield, and recovery at potash (K)- and calcium (Ca)-deficient sites. Methods: The treatments involved control plots with no potash fertilizer (T1); T2 and T3 applied potassium through (muriate potash) MOP only at 80 and 120 kg K2O ha-1, whereas T4 and T5 applied potassium with half of MOP and polyhalite at 80 and 120 kg K2O ha-1, respectively. Results and discussion: At 35 days after harvest (DAH), T2 (10.82%), T3 (24.1%), T4 (34.9%), and T5 (34.9%) had a greater ratoon resprouting rate than did the control treatment, where it was just 37.0 out of 100 harvested canes. At 308 DAH, T2 (-5.9%), T3 (-5.7%), and T5 (-6.6%) presented greater leaf chlorophyll contents than did T1. The K-fertilized plots yielded 64.31 t ha-1 in T2 and 65.97 t ha-1 in T5, whereas the control plot yielded 61.5 t ha-1. Compared with the control plots, the T5 plots experienced fewer stalk borer (-28.6%), top borer (-23.3%), and early shoot borer (-23.3%) attacks. T2, T4, and T5 presented higher percentages of commercial cane sugar (CCS) (6.82, 8.83, and 8.74%, respectively) than did the control plots. T1 and T3 had similar CCSs (10.99 and 11.33%, respectively). The CCS weight per area ranged from 7.98 to 8.47 t ha-1 near maturity. T4 (8.59 t ha-1) and T5 (8.60 t ha-1) had significantly greater values than did T1-T3. Compared with the control, the applied potassium fertilizer increased the economic output by 8,711, 11,687, 13,485, and 13,857 INR ha-1 in the T2, T3, T4, and T5 plots, respectively. The higher cost of polyhalite than MOP has reduced its economic advantages. Thus, the T4 plots outperformed the other treatments in terms of growth, yield, and quality indices, but their higher values (120 kg K2O ha-1) were statistically equivalent. Conclusion: Finally, the study concluded that MOP and polyhalite at a 50% ratio of 80 kg K2O ha-1 may help improve sugarcane growth, yield, and quality in semiarid tropical locations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Anhui Agricultural Sciences is the property of Journal of Anhui Agricultural Sciences Editorial Office and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Journal of Anhui Agricultural Sciences is the property of Journal of Anhui Agricultural Sciences Editorial Office and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Journal of Anhui Agricultural Sciences is the property of Journal of Anhui Agricultural Sciences Editorial Office and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

High-pressure processing (HPP) technology can significantly improve the texture and flavor of Mercenaria mercenaria. This study aimed to investigate the effect of HPP treatment with varying levels of pressure (100, 200, 300, 400, 500, and 600 MPa) and a holding time of 8 min at 20 °C on the physicochemical properties and volatile flavors of M. mercenaria. The significant changes in hardness, resilience, and water holding capacity occurred with increasing pressure (p < 0.05), resulting in improved meat quality. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was utilized to observe the decomposition of muscle fibers in M. mercenaria due to varying pressures, which explains the differences in texture of M. mercenaria. Different pressure treatments also had an influence on the volatile flavor of M. mercenaria, and the quantities of low-molecular-weight aldehydes (hexanal, heptanal, and nonanal) with a fishy taste decreased dramatically following 400 and 500 MPa HPP treatments. Furthermore, the level of 2-Methylbutyraldehyde, which is related to sweetness, increased significantly following 400 MPa HPP treatment. The study found that 400 MPa HPP treatment resulted in minor nutrient losses and enhanced sensory quality. The results of this study provide a theoretical basis for the application of HPP treatment to M. mercenaria. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]