Discusses development of an open architecture multi‐robot system that can be used for training engineers in the area of networked‐based multi‐robot programming.
Abstract
Purpose
Discusses development of an open architecture multi‐robot system that can be used for training engineers in the area of networked‐based multi‐robot programming.
Design/methodology/approach
The robots are operated under their original controllers connected together through a network of supervisory computers. A preemptive multi‐tasking real time operating system (RTOS) running on these computers is used to perform supervisory and cooperative tasks involving multiple robots. The software environment allows for controlling the motion of one or more robots and their interaction with other devices.
Findings
Robots can be networked to perform more elaborate tasks.
Originality/value
The environment is used to train undergraduate and graduate students on how to develop software for various robotic applications, including scheduling techniques, cooperative manipulation, collision avoidance, and emerging robotic applications.
Details
Keywords
Sevar Dilkhaz Neamat, James H. Haido and George Wardeh
This study aims to address sustainability challenges in construction by exploring the structural performance and environmental benefits of incorporating pozzolanic waste glass…
Abstract
Purpose
This study aims to address sustainability challenges in construction by exploring the structural performance and environmental benefits of incorporating pozzolanic waste glass (WG) into ultra-high-performance reinforced concrete (UHPRC) beams.
Design/methodology/approach
A comprehensive evaluation of UHPRC beams was conducted, incorporating varying ratios (10%, 20% and 30%) of WG powder alongside a consistent 0.75% inclusion of basalt fiber. The investigation encompassed the entire UHPRC production process, including curing, casting and molding, while evaluating workability and physical properties. Furthermore, the environmental impact, particularly CO2 emissions associated with UHPRC mixture components, was also assessed. Type K thermocouples were employed to analyze temperature dynamics during fabrication, providing valuable insights.
Findings
The findings demonstrate positive implications for using pozzolanic WG as a cement substitute in UHPRC beams.
Originality/value
This research stands out for its unique focus on the combined effects of incorporating recycled pozzolanic glass waste on the structural performance and environmental footprint of UHPRC beams.
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Kamiar Mahmoudifar, Ahmad Raeesi, Behzad Kiani and Mitra Rezaie
The purpose of the study is to comprehensively and extensively investigate food waste in hospitals and the environmental and economic effects it imposes on society. By knowing the…
Abstract
Purpose
The purpose of the study is to comprehensively and extensively investigate food waste in hospitals and the environmental and economic effects it imposes on society. By knowing the reasons and factors affecting the creation of such wastes, it is possible to help reduce these effects.
Design/methodology/approach
This study was conducted by systematic search in PubMed, Scopus, Science Direct and Web of Science databases.
Findings
The results suggest that high-income countries such as Denmark, Sri Lanka, Portugal and Spain have more significant amounts of food waste than low-income countries like Turkey. The main reasons for food waste include inadequate food quality, low patient appetite and issues with the dining environment. Therefore, it is crucial to address these root causes to minimize food waste and alleviate the burden on the environment.
Research limitations/implications
The study relies primarily on secondary data analysis and does not include original food waste audits or interviews with hospital staff. While the literature review provides useful background, conducting first-hand audits and interviews could strengthen the study by providing more current, contextualized and granular insights into food waste in hospitals. The lack of primary data collection limits the ability to make hospital-specific recommendations or quantify the opportunity for improvement. Additionally, the focus is on general frameworks rather than interventions tailored to the needs and constraints of hospitals in low- and middle-income regions. More region-specific research would be needed to understand nuanced challenges and develop customized solutions suitable for implementation in those settings.
Originality/value
Effective measures can be taken to make policies and determine appropriate solutions to reduce these wastes. By recognizing the problems in structures, one can take steps to reduce global warming and waste of national funds.
Details
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Rian Diana, Drajat Martianto, Yayuk Farida Baliwati, Dadang Sukandar and Agung Hendriadi
This systematic review (SR) aims to investigate plate waste quantity, determinant factors, and food waste costs in Indonesian hospitals.
Abstract
Purpose
This systematic review (SR) aims to investigate plate waste quantity, determinant factors, and food waste costs in Indonesian hospitals.
Design/methodology/approach
This SR was conducted by searching for articles published on the Web of Science, PubMed, Emerald insight, ScienceDirect and hand-searching on nationally accredited journals in Indonesia which consist of 29 journals in nutrition, environment and public health. The inclusion criteria in this review were peer-reviewed articles, original research, research locations in hospitals in Indonesia and articles in English or Bahasa (Indonesian language).
Findings
There were 21 studies (17 observational studies and 4 experimental studies) included in this systematic review. Results from 17 observational studies showed that the median plate waste was 27.6% (14.8%–88.7%). High plate waste was found in this review, particularly in pediatric patients and patients who receive liquid diet orally. Staple food and vegetables have a high contribution to patients’ plate waste. Economic costs of plate waste were $0.07–$0.5 per capita per day. Determinant factors of patient’s plate waste were patient clinical conditions, food taste and environmental conditions of hospital food service. Results from four experimental studies showed that meal replacement and smaller food portion intervention could reduce significant plate waste. Nevertheless, there is no conclusive evidence for food waste reduction intervention because of small intervention studies in Indonesia.
Research limitations/implications
There was a high disparity in the quantity of plate waste and economic costs between studies included in this review.
Practical implications
Improving food sensory and adjusting food portions particularly for staple food and vegetables can be done as a way to reduce patient’s plate waste.
Originality/value
This SR is the first review of Indonesian hospital plate waste.