Mitochondrial metabolism: a driver of energy utilisation and product quality?

2017 ◽  
Vol 57 (11) ◽  
pp. 2204 ◽  
Author(s):  
N. J. Hudson ◽  
W. G. Bottje ◽  
R. J. Hawken ◽  
ByungWhi Kong ◽  
R. Okimoto ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Product Quality ◽  
Mitochondrial Function ◽  
Feed Efficiency ◽  
High Efficiency ◽  
Mitochondrial Gene ◽  
Resource Utilisation ◽  
Mitochondrial Content ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Large Breast ◽  
Gene And Protein Expression

High feed efficiency is a very desirable production trait as it positively influences resource utilisation, profitability and environmental considerations, albeit at the possible expense of product quality. The modern broiler is arguably the most illustrative model species as it has been transformed over the past half century into an elite feed converter. Some producers are currently reporting that 42-day-old birds gain 1 kg of wet weight for every 1.35 kg of dry weight consumed. Its large breast muscle is exclusively composed of large, low mitochondrial-content Type IIB fibres, which may contribute to low maintenance costs and high efficiency. In an effort to gain a better understanding of individual variation in chicken feed efficiency, our group has been exploring the biology of the mitochondrion at multiple levels of organisation. The mitochondrion is the organelle where much biochemical energy transformation occurs in the cell. Using Cobb-Vantress industrial birds as our primary experimental resource, we have explored the tissue content, structure and function of the mitochondrion and its relationship to growth, development, efficiency and genetic background. While much remains to be understood, recent highlights include (1) variation in muscle mitochondrial content that is associated with performance phenotypes, (2) altered muscle mitochondrial gene and protein expression in birds differing in feed efficiency, (3) variation in isolated mitochondrial function in birds differing in feed efficiency and (4) evidence for an unexpected role for the mitochondrially localised progesterone receptor in altering bird muscle metabolism. Mitochondrial function is largely conserved across the vertebrates, so the same metabolic principles appear to apply to the major production species, whether monogastric or ruminant. A speculative role for the mitochondria in aspects of meat quality and in influencing postmortem anaerobic metabolism will conclude the manuscript.

Evolution of top management’s understanding of product quality in Eastern Europe since the end of communism

2017 ◽  
Vol 29 (1) ◽  
pp. 82-100
Author(s):  
Svetoslav Georgiev ◽  
Emil Georgiev
Keyword(s):  
Eastern Europe ◽  
Product Quality ◽  
Quantitative Research ◽  
Business Performance ◽  
Research Approach ◽  
Senior Managers ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Doing Business ◽  
Using Data ◽  
The Impact

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to analyse the evolution of top management’s understanding of product quality in Bulgaria since the end of communism. The study examines three specific areas: top management’s understanding of the term “quality”; top management’s understanding of the relationship between quality and business performance; and top management’s understanding of the impact of job position on quality. Design/methodology/approach The paper relies on a quantitative research approach by using data from a survey of 186 companies in Bulgaria. Findings The paper suggests that senior managers in Bulgaria continue to base their understanding of “quality” on a single approach (*a characteristic of the communist era), with the product-based and the user-based approaches currently being the two most common ones. At the same time, surprisingly enough, this study claims that senior management in Bulgaria is currently well aware of the importance of quality as a dimension of firm’s competitiveness, and is also highly conscious of its roles’ impact on product quality. Research limitations/implications The results of this study are exclusively based on the case of Bulgaria and must be treated with caution in the case of other former communist states from the Central and Eastern Europe (CEE) region. Practical implications This paper has relevance for both managers and companies doing business in Eastern Europe. Originality/value This is the first paper to provide detailed analysis of the evolution of the understanding of “product quality” in CEE since the end of communism. Moreover, this paper applies, for the first time, Garvin’s five approaches to defining quality within a practical context.

The effect of export tax rebates on product quality: evidence from China's agricultural product processing industry

2021 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Yue Liang ◽  
Jingqi Dang ◽  
Shuai Chen
Keyword(s):  
Quality Improvement ◽  
Product Quality ◽  
Policy Implications ◽  
Medium Size ◽  
Agricultural Product ◽  
Firm Innovation ◽  
Processing Industry ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Export Tax

PurposeThis study aims to establish the linkage among export tax rebate (ETR), firm innovation and product quality of Chinese agricultural product processing industry (APPI), so that more targeted policy implications can be discussed.Design/methodology/approachUsing highly disaggregated firm-product-destination-level data through 2001 to 2013 of Chinese APPI, this study employs a two-way fixed effects specification to establish the linkage between ETR and product quality, while the mediational model is adopted to examine potential mechanisms.FindingsBaseline estimates show that a 1% increase in ETR rate leads to a significant increase in the product quality of APPI by 0.12% on the whole. However, there is a nonlinear, inverse-U shaped relationship between ETR and product quality, and the optimal inflection point occurs when ERT rate equals 0.15. Mechanism analyses show that firm innovation is an important impact channel, which explains 9.8% of quality improvement induced by raising ETR. Further heterogeneous analyses reveal both the total effects of ETR on product quality and the mediation effects of innovation are dominated by young SMEs (small and medium-size enterprises).Practical implicationsAuthorities can promote the innovation and then product quality improvement of young SMEs by moderately increasing ETR rate. To ensure ETR more effective in improving quality, it is necessary for the government to encourage innovation. Authorities can reduce the risk of innovation failure for low-tech firms by increasing R&D subsidies, while ensuring innovation returns for high-tech firms in combination with stronger intellectual property protection.Originality/valueFirst, this is one of the earlier studies to explore the relationship between ETR and product quality specifically for Chinese APPI. Second, we show firm innovation as an important mediator so that policies aim at raising ETR rates are eventually beneficial to product quality. Third, using the highly disaggregated data, we allow ETR rate to vary across different products, which is an improvement in the accuracy of previous literature. Finally, our research provides additional empirical evidence for revealing the micro-mechanism of ETR affecting firm behaviors.

A systematic identification approach for biaxial piezoelectric stage with coupled Duhem-type hysteresis

2021 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Qun Chen ◽  
Zong-Xiao Yang ◽  
Zhumu Fu
Keyword(s):  
Parameter Identification ◽  
High Efficiency ◽  
Full Range ◽  
Unknown Parameters ◽  
Content Type ◽  
De Algorithm ◽  
Complicated Model ◽  
Identification Approach ◽  
Cross Axis ◽  
Systematic Identification

Purpose The problem of parameter identification for biaxial piezoelectric stages is still a challenging task because of the existing hysteresis, dynamics and cross-axis coupling. This study aims to find an accurate and systematic approach to tackle this problem. Design/methodology/approach First, a dual-input and dual-output (DIDO) model with Duhem-type hysteresis is proposed to depict the dynamic behavior of the biaxial piezoelectric stage. Then, a systematic identification approach based on a modified differential evolution (DE) algorithm is proposed to identify the unknown parameters of the Duhem-type DIDO model for a biaxial piezostage. The randomness and parallelism of the modified DE algorithm guarantee its high efficiency. Findings The experimental results show that the characteristics of the biaxial piezoelectric stage can be identified with adequate accuracy based on the input–output data, and the peak-valley errors account for 2.8% of the full range in the X direction and 1.5% in the Y direction. The attained results validated the correctness and effectiveness of the presented identification method. Originality/value The classical DE algorithm has many adjustment parameters, which increases the inconvenience and difficulty of using in practice. The parameter identification of Duhem-type DIDO piezoelectric model is rarely studied in detail and its successful application based on DE algorithm on a biaxial piezostage is hitherto unexplored. To close this gap, this work proposed a modified DE-based systematic identification approach. It not only can identify this complicated model with more parameters, but also has little tuning parameters and thus is easy to use.

A framework for near real-time ROM stockpile modelling to improve blending efficiency

2021 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Shi Zhao ◽  
Tien-Fu Lu ◽  
Larissa Statsenko ◽  
Benjamin Koch ◽  
Chris Garcia
Keyword(s):  
High Resolution ◽  
Real Time ◽  
Laser Scanning ◽  
High Efficiency ◽  
Reference Model ◽  
Geometric Model ◽  
Mining Industry ◽  
Management Systems ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Ore Grade

Purpose In the mining industry, a run-of-mine (ROM) stockpile is a temporary storage unit, but it is also widely accepted as an effective method to reduce the short-term variations of ore grade. However, tracing ore grade at ROM stockpiles accurately using most current fleet management systems is challenging, due to insufficient information available in real time. This study aims to build a three-dimensional (3D) model for ROM stockpiles continuously based on fine-grained grade information through integrating data from a number of ore grade tracking sources. Design/methodology/approach Following a literature review, a framework for a new stockpile management system is proposed. In this system, near real-time high-resolution 3D ROM stockpile models are created based on dump/load locations measured from global positioning system sensors. Each stockpile model contains a group of layers which are separated by different qualities. Findings Acquiring the geometric shapes of all the layers in a stockpile and cuts made by front wheel loaders provides a better understanding about the quality and quality distribution within a stockpile when it is stacked/reclaimed. Such a ROM stockpile model can provide information on predicating ore blend quality with high accuracy and high efficiency. Furthermore, a 3D stockyard model created based on such ROM stockpile models can help organisations optimise material flow and reduce the cost. Research limitations/implications The modelling algorithm is evaluated using a laboratory scaled stockpile at this stage. The authors expect to scan a real stockpile and create a reference model from it. Meanwhile, the geometric model cannot represent slump or collapse during reclaiming faithfully. Therefore, the model is expected to be reconcile monthly using laser scanning data. Practical implications The proposed model is currently translated to the operations at OZ Minerals. The use of such model will reduce the handling costs and improve the efficiency of existing grade management systems in the mining industry. Originality/value This study provides a solution to build a near real-time high-resolution multi-layered 3D stockpile model through using currently available information and resources. Such novel and low-cost stockpile model will improve the production rates with good output product quality control.

Non-Muslim Malaysians’ purchase intention towards halal products

2021 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Shyue Chuan Chong ◽  
Chin Chai Yeow ◽  
Choon Wei Low ◽  
Pei Yew Mah ◽  
Diep Thanh Tung
Keyword(s):  
Product Quality ◽  
Purchase Intention ◽  
Food Products ◽  
Partial Least Square ◽  
Least Square ◽  
Partial Least Square Regression ◽  
Product Price ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Halal Food ◽  
Klang Valley

Purpose Halal products were a norm in the Muslim countries; however, halal food products were not only being consumed by Muslims nowadays. People are concerned about their daily needs, especially their food and spend in this modern society. Customers nowadays are more educated, and all the information can be easily accessed by just a click. Previous literature found that customers are looking for quality products and products that are safer to be consumed. Design/methodology/approach The purpose of this study investigates non-Muslim customers’ intention in consuming halal food products in Klang Valley, Malaysia. Using 321 non-Muslim responses from Klang Valley, partial least square regression was used to examine the factors influencing the customer’s purchase intention on halal products. Findings The results show that product quality, product price, product availability and product safety significantly influence the purchase intention of urban non-Muslim on halal food products. The result implies that product quality is the most significant factor compared with other variables. Originality/value The data and results may contribute to the relevant authority to form a proper plan to improve Malaysia’s halal food items.

Differential quadrature method for nonlinear fractional partial differential equations

2018 ◽  
Vol 35 (6) ◽  
pp. 2349-2366 ◽  
Author(s):  
Umer Saeed ◽  
Mujeeb ur Rehman ◽  
Qamar Din
Keyword(s):  
Partial Differential Equations ◽  
Differential Equations ◽  
High Efficiency ◽  
Differential Quadrature Method ◽  
Differential Quadrature ◽  
Operational Matrices ◽  
Fractional Partial Differential Equations ◽  
Infinite Domain ◽  
Partial Differential ◽  
Content Type

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to propose a method for solving nonlinear fractional partial differential equations on the semi-infinite domain and to get better and more accurate results. Design/methodology/approach The authors proposed a method by using the Chebyshev wavelets in conjunction with differential quadrature technique. The operational matrices for the method are derived, constructed and used for the solution of nonlinear fractional partial differential equations. Findings The operational matrices contain many zero entries, which lead to the high efficiency of the method and reasonable accuracy is achieved even with less number of grid points. The results are in good agreement with exact solutions and more accurate as compared to Haar wavelet method. Originality/value Many engineers can use the presented method for solving their nonlinear fractional models.

A review of value drivers in service settings

2018 ◽  
Vol 32 (7) ◽  
pp. 850-867 ◽  
Author(s):  
Maria-Eugenia Ruiz-Molina ◽  
Martina Gallarza ◽  
Irene Gil-Saura
Keyword(s):  
Product Quality ◽  
Customer Loyalty ◽  
Perceived Value ◽  
Value Drivers ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Value Perceptions ◽  
Segmentation Approach ◽  
Emotional Value ◽  
Home Furnishing ◽  
Loyal Customers

Purpose Perceived value and customer loyalty have been studied jointly in most of services literature but mainly through SEM models. This paper aims to draw on the literature on the multidimensional richness of perceived value, to adopt a segmentation approach and explore segments of loyal consumers towards the service provider based on their value perceptions. Design/methodology/approach A survey was conducted among 460 Spanish consumers interviewed at the store exit of seven retail chains in two sectors (grocery and home furnishing). A CHAID analysis was performed on loyalty responses, through nine value dimensions (efficiency, service quality, product quality, emotional value, value for money, social value, aesthetic value, escapism and ethics). Findings Results show the existence of different groups of loyal customers based on the nine value types. Efficiency is prioritised by the most loyal customers in grocery but not for home furnishing. Emotional value and aesthetics, along with product quality determine the most loyal segments. Practical implications Retailers should focus on enhancing those value dimensions that better explain customer loyalty towards retail stores in their area of specialisation, combining not only tangible and intangible elements but also functional and emotional elements. Originality/value The paper adds to the prolific research on perceived value in services with a diachronic graphical review of value dimensions in retailing; furthermore, the range of value dimensions studied here is wider than most of previous works using dimensions of value in services.

scholarly journals Building brand loyalty in e-commerce of fashion lingerie

2017 ◽  
Vol 21 (1) ◽  
pp. 103-114 ◽  
Author(s):  
Javier A. Sanchez Torres ◽  
Francisco-Javier Arroyo-Cañada
Keyword(s):  
Product Quality ◽  
Online Community ◽  
Virtual Community ◽  
Brand Strategy ◽  
Exploratory Research ◽  
Fashion Industry ◽  
Quality Factors ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Customer Perceptions ◽  
Electronic Shopping

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to know if the loyalty of online purchasing is determined by the final perceptions of product quality and brand reputation in the online community of lingerie customers. Design/methodology/approach The authors used an exploratory model which aspects in previous studies have evaluated satisfaction, loyalty and trust in electronic shopping, in order to examine whether the customer’s perception of the quality and innovation of the final product sold through e-commerce and reputation in the examined was made “Virtual Community” are key factors in creating loyalty. The sample was obtained from a lingerie company which sells its products in Europe in the website leonisa.com, the data were analysed with the software SmartPLS, validating the proposed relationships between customer perceptions on the purchased product and loyalty to the brand. Findings The results demonstrate theoretical conceptions regarding product characteristics (Quality, Innovation and Satisfaction), and constructs brand (Virtual Community, Reputation and Trust). Research limitations/implications This paper presents a case study for a specific brand as exploratory research in the lingerie industry, this must be validated with this type of product for other companies. Practical implications This research has elements of support for management, companies will turn attention to the satisfaction of consumers and to maintain goods levels of reputation in the virtual community. Social implications This research shows a real case of the correct implementation of brand strategy, detailing how customers are valued and therefore provides valuable information for customers and companies. Originality/value This exploratory study provides a new analysis of product quality factors that were not directly related to the loyalty of electronic purchasing, also, it allows the fashion industry to have elements of support for management and quality control, and that hypotheses relating to the product quality and loyalty in the electronic shopping is confirmed.

Web-store image dimensions and online retail customer loyalty: investigating mediators and moderators

2021 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Pavleen Soni
Keyword(s):  
Customer Satisfaction ◽  
Product Quality ◽  
Customer Loyalty ◽  
Online Retail ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Design Elements ◽  
Purchase Frequency ◽  
Store Design ◽  
Serial Mediation

PurposeIn an era of burgeoning activity in online retail in India, the role of web-store design is paramount. Web-store design elements such as website functionality, brand assortment and product quality are expected to generate customer loyalty.Design/methodology/approachUsing data collected from 553 students from two universities in north India, the present study investigates the indirect effect of web-store dimensions (through website functionality, brand assortment and product quality) on online store loyalty via an enjoyment state (flow) and customer satisfaction. Serial mediation has been analysed through PROCESS macro developed by Hayes version 3.0. In addition to this, the moderating role of gender and purchase frequency has also been investigated.FindingsThe present study renders support to serial mediation between website functionality, flow, customer satisfaction and loyalty. However, the path between brand assortment and loyalty is more strongly mediated by customer satisfaction only. Males experience less flow as compared to females while handling brand assortment on websites. The three-way interaction between brand assortment, gender and purchase frequency is also statistically significant.Originality/valueThe study examines the manner in which online retailers can choose to build customer loyalty when they try to build retail image using web store functionality and /or product/brand assortments. The study offers insights to retailers about how and when to focus on hedonism versus customer satisfaction or both of them in conjunction to enhance customer loyalty. This study is important as it investigates the relationships in Indian scenario witnessing a high rate of growth in online retail which can tremendously affect these relationships.

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