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Application of the lean concept in catering companies.
No full textIn the modern business environment, the catering sector faces extremely dynamic changes driven by growing competition, rapidly changing consumer habits, increasing quality requirements, fluctuations in raw material prices, and technological advancements. These factors encourage food service companies to seek effective management approaches that enable more efficient use of resources, reduction of waste, improvement of service quality, and maintenance of competitiveness in the market. One of the modern management philosophies that can contribute to achieving these objectives is Lean, which is based on the principles of continuous improvement, elimination of non-value-adding activities, and creation of greater value for the customer. The object of the research is the application of the Lean concept in food service companies. The aim of the research is to examine the prerequisites and challenges of applying the Lean concept in food service companies. The theoretical analysis revealed that although Lean methodology was originally developed for the manufacturing sector, its principles are increasingly being applied in service industries, including food service enterprises. The application of Lean in food service companies enables optimization of kitchen and service processes, reduction of food waste, shortening of order fulfilment time, improvement of workplace organization, and enhancement of customer satisfaction. However, the implementation process is often hindered by challenges such as employee resistance to change, lack of knowledge, insufficient management involvement, and inadequate control systems. The results of the empirical research indicate that the most effectively used Lean tools in food service companies are the 5S system, the Kanban method, and Value Stream Mapping (VSM), which contribute to waste reduction, process optimization, improved inventory management, and higher service quality. The study also demonstrated that the success of Lean implementation in the food service sector largely depends on a clear management vision, employee involvement, consistent performance control, and a continuous learning culture. Based on the theoretical analysis and empirical findings, a conceptual Lean implementation model for food service companies was developed, encompassing key stages such as defining Lean application goals, management commitment, identification of potential barriers, selection of appropriate methods, process optimization, performance evaluation, and continuous improvement. In conclusion, the application of the Lean concept in food service companies has significant potential to enhance operational efficiency, reduce losses, and improve service quality; however, successful implementation requires systematic organizational preparedness and active employee engagement
The burden of dietary risk factors in the Nordic and Baltic countries: a systematic analysis for the Global Burden of Disease Study 2023 /
No full textBackground Detailed knowledge about the disease burden from unhealthy diet in Nordic and Baltic countries is lacking. This study quantifies and compares deaths and disability-adjusted life-years (DALYs) from dietary risks in these countries. Methods Data from the Global Burden of Disease study 2023 (GBD 2023) was used. Attributable disease burden from 15 dietary risks was analysed using the comparative risk assessment framework. Steps included: (1) estimating dietary intake; (2) assessing relative risks of dietary factors on disease endpoints; (3) determining theoretical minimum risk exposure levels (TMREL); and (4) estimating dietary risk-attributable disease burden as numbers and age-standardised rates (ASR) of deaths and DALYs. Findings Across the Nordic and Baltic countries (total population = 34,064,020), dietary risks resulted in 38,450 attributed deaths (95% uncertainty interval 10,749–59,386) and 735,284 DALYs (242,417–1,06,638) in 2023. Leading dietary risks included high intake of processed meat and low intake of fruits and whole grains. Dietary risks accounted for 24.9% of cardiovascular disease burden (5.0–37.6), 29.6% of diabetes and kidney disease burden (18.6–40.0), and 7.8% of neoplasm burden (2.9–12.1), with higher burden in the Baltic countries and Greenland than in the Nordic countries. Interpretation A substantial disease burden can be attributed to dietary risks in the Nordic and Baltic countries. Knowledge about the impact from unhealthy diet can inform targeted public health policies. Funding Gates Foundation and Norwegian Institute of Public Health
Development of functional facial masks from biodegradable nano-microfibers.
No full textAcne vulgarisis a chronic inflammatory disease that develops due to sebum overproduction, follicular hyperkeratinization, and obstruction of skin glands. Patients experience various lesions and skin inflammation, and in severe cases dermal damage or scarring. Treatment of acne vulgaris is mostly based on systemic and topical medications, which often leads to side effects such as skin dryness, irritation and barrier imbalance. Due to poor skin condition, patients may also suffer from social discomfort, anxiety, or even depression. In recent years, a clear increase in consumer interest in sustainable and functional products has been observed in the cosmetics industry. Consequently, manufacturers are developing new types of cosmetic products enriched with natural or plant-derived functional ingredients and are choosing more sustainable production methods and technologies. The object of this study is biodegradable nano/microfiber mats formed by electrospinning, intended for cosmetic applications. The aim of the research is to develop degradable dry sheet face masks for the complex management of acne vulgaris and to evaluate the suitability of these electrospun mats. Using coaxial electrospinning technology, nonwoven mats were fabricated from rabbit collagen and polyvinylpyrrolidone, incorporating bioactive additives (sodium hyaluronate and herbal extracts), selected for their biocompatibility as well as anti-inflammatory, soothing, and moisturizing properties. The work includes analysis of scientific studies related to dry sheet mask fabrication, selection of solution compositions and electrospinning parameters. The influence of composition and process conditions on the structure and chemical properties of the mats was investigated. To evaluate mat properties, physical, chemical, and morphological characterization methods were applied, degradation test and a qualitative assessment of mask behavior on the skin. The social impact of the developed face masks on patients during treatment and the contribution of biodegradable cosmetic face masks to a more sustainable dermatology sector and circular economy were also assessed. It was found that the fabricated dry mats dissolve in water, adapt well to the skin, exhibit a continuous and porous structure, and may potentially be applied in the future to support the management of dermatological problems
Voltage rise mitigation in 0.4 kV power distribution lines powered by multiple residential photovoltaic solar plants /
No full textThis research addresses the challenge of a voltage increase on 0.4 kV power distribution lines with high photovoltaic solar plants penetration. Connecting a large number of photovoltaic solar plants to power distribution lines causes a significant voltage rise, which leads to the automatic shutdown of these plants in emergency mode. This seriously hinders the use of solar energy. PV solar plant inverters use reactive power generation or consumption technology to regulate the voltage level, but it is effective only when the line X/R ratio is sufficient. This publication proposes an innovative and easily implemented method for voltage rise mitigation, based on the connection of additional inductive chokes to the power distribution line. The method will expand and fully implement existing voltage regulation measures in already installed PV solar plant inverters, which other methods do not. A methodology for selecting the additional inductance value is presented. Reactive power control methods are compared, and recommendations for the use of methods are presented. An equation is proposed for calculating the coupling point voltage of a PV solar plant inverter using the Q = f(U) diagram. The effectiveness of this method is based on mathematical calculations, simulation, and experimental verification, using typical Lithuanian power distribution lines configurations
Labour market polarization in the context of globalization.
No full textGlobalisation processes, trade liberalisation, increasing capital mobility, and the growing integration of countries into international value chains have recently become key factors shaping national markets. Over the past two decades, European labour markets have undergone significant structular changes, characterised by a gradual decline in the importance of the agricultural and industrial sectors and the strengthening of the service sector. The increasing focus on technological development and information technologies has stimulated the emergence of new occupations and hightlighted the growing importance of worker‘s qualifications and educational attainment. Researchers analysing labour market trends increasingly emphasise the phenomenom of labour market polarisation. This process is characteritic of developed economies, where deamnd for medium skilled workers declines, while demand for low and high skilled workers increases. Researchers examining this phenomenom underline the role of globalisation and technological progress. The relocation of firms across countries, international trade, foreign direct investment, migration, automation, the expanding use of artificial intelligence, and other internationally driven factors increasingly shape labour demand and educational patterns. An analysis of labour market sructular indicators in Lithuania also reveals similar tendencies. Therefore, it is important to examine how these changes affect the Lithuanian labour market and whether they pose risks to the country‘s economic performance and the social and financial well being of its population. The empirical analysis examines data on low, medium, and hight skilled employment in Lithuania over the period 2003-2024. To determine whether labour market polarisation exists in the analysed labour market, labour market structure indicators and labour market polarisation indices are calculated. To identify the factors influencing these developments, correlation analysis and regression models are applied. The results indicate that more intensive labour market polarisation in Lithuania is observed during the 2021-2024 period, when the number of medium skilled workers declined significntly whlie the share of high skilled workers in total employment increased. The econometric analysis shows that the number of information and communication technology workers has a statistically significant impact on both low and high skilled employment. This suggests that the Lithuanian labour market is increasingly oriented towards a knowledge based economic model, characterised by technological advancement, rising knowledge intesity, greater information diffusion, an expanding service sector, and a declining tole of the industrial sector
Building a smart learning system in organizations using an artificial intelligence assistant to create competency development programs.
No full textContinuous changes in the labour market, the rapid obsolescence of knowledge, and the advancement of technological innovations increase the need for organisations to develop employees’ competencies in a systematic, coherent, and future-oriented manner. In contemporary organisations, competency development is increasingly perceived not as an episodic activity but as a continuous process integrated into everyday practice and closely aligned with organisational strategy and performance effectiveness. Advanced learning systems that integrate artificial intelligence solutions enable the personalisation of learning, real-time assessment of progress, and a faster response to changing competency requirements. Despite the growing technological potential, academic research in this field remains fragmented, with limited empirical evidence demonstrating how AI assistants can be purposefully and responsibly integrated into organisational competency development systems. Therefore, this topic remains highly relevant both academically and practically. The object of the work – the application of artificial intelligence in organisational competency development systems. The aim of the work – to develop and empirically evaluate a model for the creation and improvement of an advanced learning system within an organisation, applying artificial intelligence assistant functionalities in competency development programmes. Reasearch results: Based on the analysis of scientific literature and the conducted empirical study, it was determined that the effectiveness of artificial intelligence application in competency development systems depends on clearly defined competencies, established evaluation criteria, systematic data collection, and clearly assigned responsibilities within the organisation. The findings indicate that artificial intelligence is more commonly perceived as a supportive tool that strengthens existing development processes rather than as an autonomous driver of systemic maturity. Drawing on the empirical insights, an improved competency development system model was proposed, emphasising the importance of phased AI integration, the role of human involvement in decision-making, and continuous feedback mechanisms. Additionally, practical recommendations were formulated for organisations seeking to integrate artificial intelligence assistants into advanced learning systems in a structured and evidence-based manner
Influence of organic corrosion inhibitors on the durability and mechanical properties of reinforced concrete.
No full textThe aim of master’s final degree project is to investigate orange peel extract and sodium benzoate corrosion inhibition efficiency and evaluate their influence on mechanical properties of concrete. The research is divided into three parts: analysis of scientific literature, experimental analysis of physical, mechanical and corrosion-related properties and analysis of the results. During this study, ten different tests were caried out to evaluate various concrete properties. The influence of inhibitor concentration on cement hydration, density, compressive, flexural and punching strength, chloride diffusion, mineral composition and microstructure was investigated
Managing B2C digital marketing communication /
No full textPurpose – The aim of this paper is to improve the understanding of management of B2C digital marketing communication tools as a multifaceted phenomenon based on influences on customer behaviour in the modern marketplace. This study aims to develop a theoretical framework that integrates a selection of digital marketing tools and explains how they affect various aspects of consumer behaviour. Design/methodology/approach – This study focuses on the analysis of scientific literature and an empirical quantitative survey of Lithuanian consumers. It is aimed at finding out which digital marketing communication tools have the greatest and least impact on consumers’ decisions at different stages of consumer behaviour. The survey results are based on 393 questionnaires. Findings – Based on the analysis of scientific literature and our survey, the authors found out that a comprehensive framework should encompass four different stages of consumer behaviour and six of the most popular digital marketing communication tools. A model was developed based on theory and practice, which depicts the relevance of the particular B2C digital marketing communication tools at a given stage of consumer behaviour, where there is a greater impact on consumer behaviour. The findings of this study have implications that can serve as a theoretical basis for further research in this field. Research limitations/implications – The limitation of this quantitative study is that it used a relatively small sample and cannot, therefore, be generalised beyond the Lithuanian context. Practical implications – The study’s results could have practical implications for organizations that wish to foster management of communication with consumers. The practical implications can help marketing managers develop effective strategies for managing B2C digital marketing communication tools. By understanding the four different stages of consumer behaviour and the effect of different digital marketing communication tools, managers can make informed decisions about their implementation that improve customer engagement and satisfaction. Therefore, these findings present an opportunity for a comprehensive understanding of how B2C digital marketing communication tools influence consumer behaviour, empowering managers to optimize their B2C digital marketing communication strategies. Originality/value – The lack of agreement in trying to categorize different types of B2C marketing communication tools does not allow us to see a wider perspective for managerial strategies to influence consumer behaviour. Most research has focused on the impact of single-channel marketing on consumer behaviour, but many modern digital marketing strategies use omnichannel approaches. This paper fills this gap by developing the relevant theoretical framework of managing B2C digital marketing communication
Managing knee arthrodesis conversion to arthroplasty in a young patient: surgical strategy, challenges, and functional recovery after 1 year /
No full textConversion of knee arthrodesis to total knee arthroplasty is a technically demanding procedure, particularly in young patients with a history of trauma and infection. This report outlines the surgical strategy and 1-year functional outcome of a 24-year-old patient who underwent total knee arthroplasty 4 years after knee fusion. Management included soft tissue reconstruction, tibial tubercle osteotomy, gastrocnemius flap coverage, and rotating hinge knee implantation. At 1-year follow-up, the patient showed marked clinical improvement, with improved in KOOS and WOMAC scores, pain relief, and quality of life. Markerless 3D kinematic gait analysis was also performed post-conversion. This report describes key surgical considerations and preoperative work-up for the successful conversion of knee arthrodesis to arthroplasty
Mass distribution of nutrients, trace elements, and heavy metals among particle-size fractions of municipal solid waste compost from different regions of the Baltic States /
No full textThis study assesses the distribution of nutrients, trace elements, and heavy metals across different granulometric fractions of municipal solid waste (MSW) compost from three regions: Kaunas and Alytus (Lithuania) and Daugavpils (Latvia). Samples were collected from mechanical biological treatment plants (MBTPs) and fractionated into six different granulometric fractions (>5 mm, 5–2.5 mm, 2.5–1 mm, 1–0.5 mm, 0.5–0.2 mm, and 5 mm, and 5–2.5 mm) of Alytus and Daugavpils are suitable to use as a soil amendment only if the undesirable impurities are removed to the acceptable limits in the coarse fractions. The fine fractions of Alytus have higher levels of heavy metals (Cd, Cr, Cu, Ni, Pb, Zn), while Daugavpils showed higher levels of Cd, Cu, Ni, and Zn, exceeding the EU limits. Regarding physical fractionation, results showed that nutrients and heavy metals increased in the compost as particle size decreased. Our findings suggest that removing particle sizes < 1 mm and large impurities from the coarse fractions can enhance compost quality. Overall, particle-size fractionation can improve the consistency and safety of MBT-derived MSW compost for reuse in circular waste management systems