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1 – 10 of over 2000
Article
Publication date: 23 August 2021

Kgomotso Lebelo, Muthoni Masinde, Ntsoaki Malebo and Mokgaotsa Jonas Mochane

This paper aims to report on the bibliometric research trends on the application of machine learning/intelligent systems in the prediction of food contamination and the…

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to report on the bibliometric research trends on the application of machine learning/intelligent systems in the prediction of food contamination and the surveillance of foodborne diseases.

Design/methodology/approach

In this study, Web of Science (WoS) core collection database was used to retrieve publications from the year 1996–2021. Document types were classified according to country of origin, journals, citation and key research areas. The bibliometric parameters were analyzed using VOSviewer version 1.6.15 to visualize the international collaboration networks, citation density and link strength.

Findings

A total of 516 articles across 6 document types were extracted with an average h-index of 51 from 10,570 citations. The leading journal in publications was Science of the Total Environment (3.6%) by Elsevier and the International Journal of Food Microbiology (2.5%). The United States of America (USA) (24%) followed by the People's Republic of China (17.2%) were the most influential countries in terms of publications. The top-cited articles in this study focused on themes such as contamination from packaging materials and on the strategies for preventing chemical contaminants in the food chain.

Originality/value

This report is significant because the public health field requires innovative strategies in forecasting foodborne disease outbreaks to advance effective interventions. Therefore, more collaboration need to be fostered, especially in developing nations regarding food safety research.

Details

British Food Journal, vol. 124 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0007-070X

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 16 January 2009

Silpa Sagheer, Surendra S. Yadav and S.G. Deshmukh

The aim of this paper is to identify and analyze critical factors/elements influencing standards compliance and their level of influence in a developing country food industry…

1888

Abstract

Purpose

The aim of this paper is to identify and analyze critical factors/elements influencing standards compliance and their level of influence in a developing country food industry, with specific reference to India.

Design/methodology/approach

A total of 13 critical elements were identified and structured using pair‐wise comparisons. Structural and reachability matrices were formed and iterated to yield levels of hierarchical influence of each element. MICMAC analysis was also performed to determine dependency and driving power of these elements.

Findings

The analysis brought out a compelling need for “sensitive and responsive” action by developing country governments while competing globally. Food industries in developing countries tend to detour while complying with standards, owing to costs involved in setting up systems and procedures. While a strong surveillance mechanism is the high point of a good compliant system this has to be preceded by supporting measures such as linking of domestic and international markets, consolidation of institutional structures, strengthening of legal/regulatory systems, etc.

Practical implications

Use of interpretative structural modeling (ISM) is inspired by the versatility displayed by this method, as reported by researchers, across a wide spectrum of economic and competitive complexities affecting businesses.

Originality/value

The study is a hitherto unexplored attempt, using interpretative structural modeling, to analyze standards compliance in a developing country's food industry.

Details

International Journal of Productivity and Performance Management, vol. 58 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1741-0401

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 25 May 2012

Alan Fewkes

The purpose of this paper is to provide a review of the technology, design and application of rainwater harvesting (RWH) systems in a UK context and identify areas of research and…

3684

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide a review of the technology, design and application of rainwater harvesting (RWH) systems in a UK context and identify areas of research and development.

Design/methodology/approach

A comprehensive range of literature from 1978‐2010 is reviewed and divided into the following sections: history, application in developed countries, benefits of RWH, system categories and components, storage capacity, rainwater quality and factors influencing the use of RWH systems.

Findings

This paper provides a useful source of information relating to the potential benefits of RWH systems, different types of system and components used to supply non potable water. To ensure the potential of RWH systems in the UK is realized, an integrated approach to their application is required. This may improve the financial viability of these systems and sustainability credentials but requires further research.

Research limitations/implications

It is not an exhaustive list of publications but attempts to draw on major sources of literature which catalogue the development and design of RWH systems. Current sources of literature are also identified which identify various factors influencing the future development and application of rainwater systems.

Practical implications

The paper provides practitioners with an initial basis for evaluating or undertaking the initial design of RWH systems.

Originality/value

The study provides historical context for the recent and ongoing development of RWH. In particular areas of further research and development are identified to ensure the potential of RWH systems are realized in the future.

Details

Structural Survey, vol. 30 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0263-080X

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 19 July 2018

Martina Tunegová, Eva Samková, Lucie Hasoňová, Marcela Klimešová, Aneta Marková, Robert Kala and Róbert Toman

The purpose of this paper is to evaluate the results of inspections carried out by the State Veterinary Administration (SVA) of Czech Republic (CR) for the occurrence of chemical

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to evaluate the results of inspections carried out by the State Veterinary Administration (SVA) of Czech Republic (CR) for the occurrence of chemical contaminants in animal products before and after CR entered the European Union (EU).

Design/methodology/approach

Data was collected from e-databases of the SVA from 1999–2016 and sorted into categories (game animals and fish; livestock; food and raw material of animal origin) and time periods (one before entry and two after entry of CR to the EU). Analyses of the samples were categorized as “positive samples” (any presence of contaminants) and “samples above the MRL” (presence of contaminants exceeding the maximum residue levels).

Findings

Results showed a significant decrease in the number of positive findings of contaminants during the monitored years 1999–2016, especially after CR entered the EU. Most encouragingly, the number of samples that exceeded the MRL was less than 1 percent from all the tested samples of animal origin and, after entry to the EU, in one category (food and raw materials of animal origin) it was even less than 0.1 percent. Findings of banned substances indicate continued environmental contamination in CR; however, this remains a problem in most of Europe due to their extensive use in the past and slow degradation.

Originality/value

This paper provides an overview of the occurrence of chemical contaminants and their levels in food of animal origin in view of the changing legislative requirements before and after CR entered the EU.

Details

British Food Journal, vol. 120 no. 9
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0007-070X

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 1 March 1994

David Atkins

Summarizes the UK′s food chemical surveillance programme. This programmeis an extensive series of checks, tests and analyses (approximately130,000 per annum) designed to monitor…

799

Abstract

Summarizes the UK′s food chemical surveillance programme. This programme is an extensive series of checks, tests and analyses (approximately 130,000 per annum) designed to monitor the safety and quality of the UK′s food supply. The paper describes the scale of the programme and its management through the Steering Group on Chemical Aspects of Food Surveillance (SGCAFS) and its 11 working parties‐which cover the wide range of food surveillance activities including chemical contaminants, natural toxicants, nutrition, food additives, radionuclides and authenticity. Although the programme′s results are generally reassuring, important information is produced on emerging potential problems. Provides examples where this surveillance has enabled these potential problems to be identified and appropriate remedial action taken. Describes the extensive publication of surveillance data through the Food Surveillance Paper series (HMSO) and reports on the recent Ministerial decision for the rapid publication of the most important food surveillance data.

Details

British Food Journal, vol. 96 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0007-070X

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 13 April 2015

Amobichukwu Chukwudi Amanambu and Christiana Ndidi Egbinola

The purpose of this paper is to examine the presence of geogenic contaminants in groundwater from shallow aquifers of the crystalline basement complex rocks of Ibadan…

261

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the presence of geogenic contaminants in groundwater from shallow aquifers of the crystalline basement complex rocks of Ibadan south-western, Nigeria.

Design/methodology/approach

A total of 30 drinking water samples, (six samples each from the five major lithologic formations of the study area) were collected from hand dug wells during the rainy season. Atomic absorption spectrophotometry was used to determine concentrations of arsenic, iron and fluoride in drinking water samples and also concentrations of other chemical parameters that could affect the concentrations of the geogenic contaminants including pH, Ca, Mg, Na and SO42−. Descriptive statistics, multiple correlation and analysis of variance were used to examine the relationship between the geogenic contaminants and concentration of other chemical parameters while inverse distance weighting was used to produce risk maps.

Findings

The results showed Arsenic concentration exceeding the WHO recommended concentration for drinking water in all the samples within the area. Samples from 16.6 per cent of the wells exceeded the recommended limit for fluoride while iron was present in most of the samples within acceptable limits. The study also revealed no significant difference in concentration of contaminants between the geologic formations.

Originality/value

Geogenic contamination has been scarcely studied in Nigeria. This research, therefore, is a paradigm shift in the study of groundwater contamination which had been mainly focused on anthropogenic contaminants. The outcome of this research will engender policy makers and researchers to pay more attention to geogenic contamination than anthropogenic contaminants in Nigeria.

Details

Management of Environmental Quality: An International Journal, vol. 26 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1477-7835

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 1 August 1989

D.P. Atkins and S.M. Smith

The scientific basis of MAFF′s policy on the chemical safety offood is described. Examples are provided of the independent advisorycommittee structure which depends on scientific…

Abstract

The scientific basis of MAFF′s policy on the chemical safety of food is described. Examples are provided of the independent advisory committee structure which depends on scientific information and advice in formulating proposals to Government. This science takes the form of pre‐market evaluations of chemical products such as food additives, pesticides and veterinary products and subsequently extends to the monitoring of their presence in the diet as part of a wide‐ranging surveillance programme of the UK′s food supply for food additives, nutrients and contaminants.

Details

British Food Journal, vol. 91 no. 8
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0007-070X

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 27 September 2011

Sami A. Zabin

The purpose of this paper is to understand how Saudis perceive chemical pollution health risks. Also, it attempts to investigate whether there are gender, age, education, and…

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to understand how Saudis perceive chemical pollution health risks. Also, it attempts to investigate whether there are gender, age, education, and place of residence differences in health risk perception.

Design/methodology/approach

A questionnaire was designed and developed as a descriptive survey of the target population's perceptions of the impact of chemical contaminants on health. Statistical data analysis was conducted to determine the response difference among variables.

Findings

The survey demonstrated higher perceptions of health risk among females as compared to males in general and that females are more likely than males to rank items as a high risk. Most gender differences were statistically significant (F(23, 516)=4.906, p<0.001). This is in agreement with some other studies in the world. The older age group is, in general, more likely to consider something as being a high‐health risk. Also, respondents with higher education were more likely to rate more health risks as “high risk” than were other respondents. Meanwhile, there was no difference in health risk perception according to place of residence.

Originality/value

Saudis face increasing health risks due to chemical pollution. Very little is known about chemical pollution concern and health risk perceptions in the Saudi society. Understanding public chemicals health risk perceptions is the basis of an effective strategy for environmental health risk management. The results of this survey will provide useful information to policy makers to improve health risk communication and develop effective health risks management policies.

Details

Management of Environmental Quality: An International Journal, vol. 22 no. 6
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1477-7835

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 13 September 2021

Monica Puri Sikka and Mandira Mondal

Cleanrooms are highly controlled enclosed rooms where air quality is monitored and ensured to have less contamination according to standard cleanliness level. Air filters are used…

Abstract

Purpose

Cleanrooms are highly controlled enclosed rooms where air quality is monitored and ensured to have less contamination according to standard cleanliness level. Air filters are used to optimize indoor air quality and remove air pollutants. Filter media and filtering system are decided as per requirement. Depth filter media are mostly used in cleanroom filtrations. This paper aims to present a comprehensive review of the evolution of cleanroom filter media. It evaluates the advantages and disadvantages of air filter media. It is also studied which air filters have additional properties such as anti-microbial properties, anti-odour properties and chemical absorbent. Development and innovation of air filters and filtration techniques are necessary to improve the performance via the synergistic effect and it can be a possible avenue of future research.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper aims to drive the future of air filter research and development in achieving high-performance filtration with high filtration efficiency, low operational cost and high durability. Air pollutants are classified into three types: suspended particles, volatile organic pollutants and microorganisms. Technologies involved in purification are filtration, water washing purification, electrostatic precipitation and anion technology. They purify the air by running it through a filter medium that traps dust, hair, pet fur and debris. As air passes through the filter media, they function as a sieve, capturing particles. The fibres in the filter medium provide a winding path for airflow. There are different types of air filters such as the high-efficiency particulate air filter, fibreglass air filter and ultra-low particulate air filter.

Findings

Emerging filtration technologies and filters such as nanofibres, filters with polytetrafluoroethylene membrane are likely to become prevalent over the coming years globally. The introduction of indoor air filtration with thermal comfort can be a possible avenue of future research along with expanding indoor environment monitoring and improving air quality predictions. New air filters and filtration technologies having better performance with low cost and high durability must be developed which can restrict multiple types of pollutants at the same time.

Originality/value

The systematic literature review approach used in this paper highlights the emerging trends and issues in cleanroom filtration in a structured and thematic manner, enabling future work to progress as it will continue to develop and evolve.

Details

Research Journal of Textile and Apparel, vol. 26 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1560-6074

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 26 March 2021

Hamed Mahallei and Kazem Badv

The purpose of this paper is to assess sand-bentonite liners (SBL) which could be used as hydraulic barriers with a controllable quality, relatively low cost and easy operation in…

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to assess sand-bentonite liners (SBL) which could be used as hydraulic barriers with a controllable quality, relatively low cost and easy operation in solid waste landfills.

Design/methodology/approach

These barriers have been used successfully in various applications and have attracted much attention in a short period of time. The only precautionary use of SBLs is related to the change of their hydraulic properties in high alkaline chemical environments. The main reason for this phenomenon is the presence of high ion exchange minerals in bentonite. By exposure to these environments, it is also laid open to degradation of the montmorillonite microstructure leads to change in hydraulic behavior. Three different compounds were used for laboratory-scale SBL, and diffusion was considered as the dominant mechanism of contamination transmission in these liners. Chlorine ion has been used as pollutant, and its diffusion coefficient was determined in the tested SBLs.

Findings

The sample’s diffusion coefficient for the first experiment containing 3% bentonite and 97% Semnan sand were 2.5 × 10^(−9) (m^2/s) and 2.44 × 10 ^(−9) (m^2/s), respectively. Similarly, for two samples with 6% bentonite and 94% Semnan sand, this parameter was equal to 2.17 × 10 ^(−9) (m^2/s) and 2.22 × 10 ^(−9) (m^2/s) and for two samples with 3% agglacial clay, 12% bentonite and 85% Semnan sand was 5.55 × 10 ^(−10) (m^2/s) and 6.11 × 10 ^(−10) (m^2/s). These values correspond to the range reported in previous studies. Also, it was observed that with comparing the diffusion coefficients of test, it was concluded that with increasing bentonite, the molecular diffusion decreases significantly.

Originality/value

In this study, three laboratory samples with different percentages of bentonite, clay and sand were considered and the results obtained from the laboratory were compared with the results obtained from numerical modeling.

Details

World Journal of Engineering, vol. 18 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1708-5284

Keywords

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