Changes In Demand Research Articles

Assessing the energy performance certification effectiveness for the Spanish building stock in response to recent climate change data

This comprehensive study analyses the energy demand for heating and cooling in the building stock across different climatic zones in Spain, incorporating the effects of weather evolution over the past 30 years (from 1992 to 2022). In evaluating 7200 cases across four climatic years and six climatic zones which include six Spanish cities, the analysis examines the construction characteristics of the building stock. The focus is on the thermal envelop properties under two scenarios: the current state and a renovated state that complies with the new Spanish building code (in agreement with the EPBD EU-Directive EU/2024/1275).The study’s findings reveal potentially significant changes in energy demand due to climate. The heating demand decreases significantly due to increasing temperatures ranging from 17% in Madrid up to 37% in Almería. This effect is contrasted by a substantial increase in cooling demand, which has surged 223% in Barcelona, a surge closely linked to higher summer temperatures.The paper concludes that the current energy certification scheme fails to provide a real overview of the energy performance and needs of buildings in Spain. In particular, it underestimates actual sensible cooling demand by 56% in Barcelona and 41% in Almería. Additionally, the failure of existing building regulations to address the issue of indoor overheating is proven.

An interrogation of family-based care for the elderly in Kaloleni sub-location, Kisumu, Kenya

The aim of this study was to interrogate family based care services for the elderly within Kaloleni Sub-Location, Kisumu, Kenya. The population of the elderly (age 60 and above) is projected to outnumber children (0-9 years) by the year 2030, and by 2050, to exceed the population of adolescents and youth aged between 10 to 14 years. The Kenya government is exploring the development of a community care strategy and the roll-out of an Integrated Care of Older Persons (ICOPE) package. While family-based care has been the policy and cultural preference for offering long term elderly care, the state recognized growing demand for responsive changes to current realities. This research set the following three objectives: First, to establish the state of family based care in Kaloleni sub-location; second, to examine alternatives to family based care that exist in the sub-location, and, lastly, to interrogate policy options as suggested by respondents in the study. Using Krejcie and Morgan sample size determination table, a total of 120 elderly persons aged 70 and above were traced and 92 of them randomly sampled. The methodology deployed was mixed methods involving narrative interviewing and cross sectional survey. Descriptive data analysis and thematic analysis were deployed for quantitative and qualitative results respectively. Narrative interviewing/In depth interviews method was used in collecting data from Kaloleni sub-location. While findings from this research may not be generalizable due to study limitations and scope, the study strongly demonstrated the desperate state of gerontological care in informal settlements in urban centers in Kisumu, where over 90% of respondents sought improvement on care service provision for the elderly. The elderly persons mostly rely on care givers from the family but these care givers also tend to be dependent on the elderly respondents for general upkeep. Results support the literature that contends that older people are vulnerable to poverty. It was recommended that policy must shift to address factors that promote healthy aging and diminish suffering in old age as population aging continues. Further studies of a longitudinal nature are required to lend greater insight and inform policy.

Conceptual framework for enhancing decision-making in higher education through data-driven governance

In an increasingly complex and competitive landscape, higher education institutions must leverage data-driven governance to enhance decision-making processes. This paper presents a conceptual framework aimed at integrating data analytics into the governance structures of higher education, facilitating informed decision-making, and improving institutional effectiveness. The framework emphasizes the importance of collecting, analyzing, and utilizing data across various dimensions, including academic performance, student engagement, financial management, and operational efficiency. By adopting a data-driven approach, institutions can identify trends, forecast outcomes, and make strategic decisions that align with their mission and goals. The study outlines key components of the framework, including data governance, analytics capabilities, stakeholder engagement, and institutional culture. Data governance ensures that data quality, integrity, and security are maintained, while analytics capabilities empower decision-makers with actionable insights. Engaging stakeholders—faculty, administrators, students, and external partners—fosters a collaborative environment where data-driven decisions are embraced and supported. Furthermore, the framework addresses the challenges institutions face when implementing data-driven governance, such as resistance to change, data silos, and inadequate technological infrastructure. Strategies for overcoming these challenges include investing in professional development, enhancing data literacy, and promoting a culture of continuous improvement. The framework also highlights the significance of ethical considerations and transparency in data usage, ensuring that decision-making processes are equitable and accountable. The findings indicate that by embracing data-driven governance, higher education institutions can enhance their responsiveness to changing demands, optimize resource allocation, and improve overall institutional performance. Ultimately, the conceptual framework serves as a guide for higher education leaders seeking to harness the power of data in their decision-making processes, fostering a proactive and adaptive institutional environment.

Simulation of Hybrid PV Solar System with Fuel Cell in MATLAB Simulink

This paper discusses the simulation of a fuel cell hybrid solar photovoltaic system in MATLAB Simulink. To achieve the stated objective, it is proposed to dynamically model a hybrid system using Simulink to analyze its performance and optimize its operation, improving the efficiency and stability of the power supply under different operating conditions, then the dynamic simulation model employs energy conversion equations of the solar PV panel and the fuel cell to meet the electrical load requirements, where the solar panel uses solar radiation and ambient temperature, while the fuel cell produces electricity by electrolysis of water, which separates hydrogen from oxygen. In the first graph, the power at load increases sharply at 0.5 seconds and stabilizes between 0.5 and 1.5 seconds, with a sharp drop at 1.6 seconds. In the second graph, PV power increases at 0.5 seconds, reaching 80 kW between 0.5 and 1.5 seconds, dropping to zero at 1.6 seconds. The fuel cell shows similar behavior. These results indicate a coordinated operation for a stable power supply to the load, responding efficiently to changes in demand and generation.

Introducing innovative policy instrument to reduce antibiotics use. Relevant evidence from Bulgaria

Abstract Background of the public health challenge Excessive individual consumption of antibiotics (ABs) increases global antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Therefore, shaping consumers’ behaviors towards responsible ABs use is an essential strategy in the battle with the silent pandemic of AMR. The EU One Health (OH) Action Plan against AMR targets making Europe a best-practice region. Overall consumption of ABs in the EU decreased significantly, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. Bulgaria is the only EU country that has reported an annual increase in ABs use during this period (ECDC data). A growing part of Bulgarians, believe that ‘ABs kill viruses’ and is unaware that ‘unnecessary use of ABs makes them ineffective’ (Eurobarometer 2022). This limited understanding of adequate ABs use resulted in counterproductive behaviors that demand change. Introducing innovative policy instrument as a tool for behavioral change: Undeniably, drug prescription monitoring has the potential to change consumers’ behaviors. In October 2023 mandatory electronic prescribing (e-Rx) for ABs was introduced in Bulgaria at a primary healthcare level. Consequently, there was an observed decline exceeding 30% in ABs sales (IQVIA Bulgaria data), evidencing a reduction in ABs consumption. However, there were negative reactions by the stakeholders, due to time-consuming procedures, nonoptimal IT infrastructure, etc., and that led to e-Rx-moratorium. Finally, in April 2024, the e-Rx is sustainably introduced. Conclusions Legislative measures, like e-Rx, can hinder the chaotic use of ABs. Moreover, Bulgarians need to reflect on their behaviors and values of solidarity which OH offers. Herewith, a multidisciplinary team of academic educators unite their OH efforts in raising awareness related to AMR and the rational use of ABs. Years of national endeavors toward healthcare digitalisation led to the introduction of e-Rx for ABs in Bulgaria. Research will prove its relevance for the rest of Europe. Key messages • To the European community: The introduction of the innovative policy tool (e-Rx for antibiotics) in Bulgaria is a significant national effort in making Europe a best-practice region regarding AMR. • To the Bulgarian society: Antibiotics are not bonbons! Responsible ABs use of every one of us can contribute to the EU efforts to manage AMR. In the context of AMR, every person is a stakeholder.

11.D. Scientific session: Participatory approaches and co-creation in complex interventions to reduce inequity in health

Abstract The escalating challenges posed by climate change and rapid urbanization demand an integrated understanding of how our natural and built environments influence health outcomes. This workshop aims to dissect the complex associations between the environment-both natural and constructed-and physical and mental health. The urgency and breadth of these issues necessitate a multidisciplinary approach, leveraging insights from environmental science, public health, and urban planning. The primary objective of this workshop is to elucidate the multifaceted relationships between environmental conditions and health, identifying actionable strategies to mitigate adverse health outcomes and enhance well-being. Specific goals include: i) to assess the current scientific evidence linking various environmental factors with health, highlighting the role of climate change; ii) to explore innovative methodologies for studying environmental impacts on health; and iii) to foster collaboration among researchers, policymakers, and practitioners for integrated health and environmental planning. Organizing this workshop presents several unique added values. First, it serves as a platform for experts from diverse fields to share findings and refine research methodologies. Second, by synthesizing current knowledge, the workshop will inform more coherent and science-based public health and urban policy. Lastly, it could facilitate networking among stakeholders, fostering collaborations that bridge gaps between research and policy implementation. The workshop is structured to ensure thematic coherence and maximally beneficial interactions among participants. Presentations will be grouped into four thematic blocks: 1. effects of climate change on health; 2. healthy design and public mental health; 3. Planetary health challenges to human health; 4. Climate change perception and mental health. During the workshop, each speech will be built on the previous one in a sequential way. At the end of the workshop, audience members could join the discussion offering their point of view and directly interacting with the speakers. This workshop stands as a crucial endeavor to integrate diverse perspectives on how environmental conditions impact health and to catalyze significant strides in public health and urban planning. It promises to not only advance scientific understanding but also to translate this knowledge into practical, scalable solutions for health resilience in our communities. Key messages • Urban health is foundational for sustainable cities, integrating health into all policies ensures inclusive, safe, resilient communities as outlined in SDG 11. • Public health influenced by environmental and local government strategies highlights the need for multidisciplinary approaches to adapt urban planning and health policies.

Can Perceived Experiential Marketing of Nutritional Meat-Based Food Enhance Repurchase Intention? The Role of Customer Engagement

Understanding the consumption experience plays a critical role in building customer-product relationships and effectively meeting customers’ changing demands. This study aims to investigate the impact of experiential consumption on customer engagement and repurchase intentions, with a focus on the high nutrient meat-based food setting. To examine this issue, this study collected data from 487 consumers who had purchased and consumed high nutrient meat (e.g., the Thai native chicken, namely Pradu Hang Dam Mor Kor 55 chicken). Using structural equation modelling with partial least squares in ADANCO software, the study found that experiential marketing dimensions exert differential effects on engagement. The results also indicate a more strongly significant effect of consumers’ behavioral (behave) experience and intellectual (think) experience on engagement, while consumers’ sensory (sense) experience and affective (feel) experience were not significant for engagement. Moreover, the effect of customer engagement on repurchase intentions was positive. The study concludes by outlining key implications that arise from the analyses, followed by avenues for further research.

A Financial Analysis and Valuation of Apple, Inc.

Abstract: This paper will take an in-depth look at Apple's financial performance and provide a detailed comparative analysis with its main competitors. Apple, as the world's leading technology giant, has always been known for its innovative products and strong market influence. However, in an increasingly competitive tech industry, continued financial health is key to its success. This paper first compares the performance of Apple and its competitors in key financial indicators such as liquidity, debt repayment ability and profitability. This comparison not only reveals Apple's financial position in the industry, but also helps us understand its robustness in responding to market movements. Next, this paper analyzes Apple's financial report of the latest year in detail, and deeply discusses the change trend of its revenue, expenditure, profit and other key financial data. This analysis is able to capture Apple's financial performance and strategy in the face of global economic fluctuations and changes in market demand. Finally, this paper will discuss Apple's business strategy and the business risks it faces. This includes its product innovation strategy, market expansion plans and potential risks due to factors such as technological change, market competition and global policy changes. Through a comprehensive analysis of Apple's business model and go-to-market strategy, this paper aims to provide a comprehensive perspective on how Apple can maintain its leadership position in a dynamic market.

What is new about Japan’s new migration policy? From recruitment of “nonlabor” workers to selection by neoliberal meritocracy

Abstract Japan experienced major reforms in its migration policy in 2018. This study aims to examine the novelty of the new migration policy by tracing the shift in the legal status of two “nonlabor” migrant workers: fourth-generation Japanese descendants (Nikkeijin) and technical interns. While fourth-generation young adults have been allowed to work in Japan since 2018, their rights are more restricted than those of third-generation Nikkeijin. Simultaneously, the government prepared a path for technical interns to upgrade their visas to specified skilled workers. The new migration policy is characterized by the convergence of the status of the two groups. Superficially, the reformed immigration program appears to signify a shift toward a more liberal immigration policy that allows previously excluded groups to settle in the country. A more important feature is the rise of the neoliberal meritocracy as a new principle of admission. Both groups have the potential to improve their legal status; however, long-term settlement is unattainable until they undergo rigorous selection. They are expected to overcome hurdles independently because the government is reluctant to provide commensurate support with higher demands for changes in legal status.

Discovering Islamic marketing potential in shaping blockchain-­based halal logistic services: a bibliometric analysis

Purpose This paper aims to examine the Islamic marketing literature to uncover potential customer adoption behaviours and enhance the effectiveness of blockchain-based halal logistics services in catering to customer demands. The findings of this paper provide substantial contributions to the realms of both halal logistics services and Islamic marketing literature, delineating future paths for research. By delving into halal logistics practices, integration procedures and service provider performance, this paper assists stakeholders in enhancing halal logistics services to meet the changing demands of customers effectively. Design/methodology/approach This paper uses a systematic review incorporating bibliometric analysis to examine past and contemporary research topics, selecting and appraising contributions while analysing and consolidating data. A methodical approach has been used to identify, assess and incorporate pertinent studies on Islamic characteristics, traceability technology, blockchain integration and halal logistics practices. Findings After screening and analysing 139 selected documents with the VOS viewer, it is evident that among a 1,000 keywords, 15 stand out in terms of frequency and link strength. The research highlights the considerable academic interest in themes such as “blockchain”, “halal logistics” and “supply chain”, underscoring their importance. The findings of this paper help bridge the gap in Islamic marketing by linking technology with religious values. It suggests that the integration of blockchain technology in halal logistics enhances operational efficiency while aligning with both operational and Islamic marketing principles, promoting ethical conduct and transparency as key enablers. Practical implications The theoretical significance of this paper lies in establishing a correlation among three key research domains: technology, symbolised by blockchain; customer-centric operations, incorporating the halal supply chain and logistics within Islamic marketing. The outcomes reflect consumer behaviour and Shariah compliance. This integration has the potential to introduce innovative theoretical frameworks that encompass religious ethics in marketing, logistics and technological advancements. Originality/value This paper comprehensively analyses the intersection between blockchain technology, halal logistics, supply chain management and Islamic marketing. The paper has comprehensively analysed previous studies and outlined the future research path for blockchain technology in halal logistics and its application in Islamic marketing literature.

Quantitative assessment of PM2.5-related human health impacts at the provincial level in China and analysis of its heterogeneity affected by economic structural transformation

Rapid economic development has led to massive fossil energy consumption and emissions of air pollutants such as PM2.5, which have severely impacted human health and the environment. By uncovering the primary regions and pivotal sectors of PM2.5-related human health impacts (PM2.5-HHI) and evaluating the influence of economic structural factors on them, we can facilitate a more targeted strategy for managing PM2.5 pollution sources. This study employs a structural decomposition analysis method based on input–output analysis to evaluate the impact of China’s provincial economic structural transformation and changes in final demand on PM2.5-HHI in the years 2012, 2015, and 2017. Results indicated that PM2.5-HHI is primarily concentrated in economically developed provinces (e.g., Shandong and Guangdong), which is compared to Shanghai, Heilongjiang, Liaoning, and Hebei experienced negative growth in PM2.5-HHI during 2007–2017. The production-based PM2.5-HHI is primarily driven by energy-intensive sectors such as the production and distribution of electric power and heat power. By contrast, the building sector is key to driving consumption-based PM2.5-HHI. An increasing number of regions are reducing PM2.5-HHI by implementing production structure changes. Moreover, the driving effect of production structure changes on PM2.5-HHI growth is strengthening in Beijing and Tianjin. Changes in the final demand structure mainly led to the growth of PM2.5-HHI in areas with higher economic development levels, such as Beijing and Shandong, but this driving effect is weakening. The final demand–driven PM2.5-HHI shows an evolutionary trend of an increasing share driven by fixed capital formation and exports and a decreasing share driven by household consumption. Changes in emission intensity play a key role in decreasing PM2.5-HHI in each region. Alternatively, changes in the structure of emission sources have a relatively minor impact on PM2.5-HHI. To mitigate PM2.5-HHI, regional economic and resource endowment advantages should be used to promote regional coordinated development and strengthen green production-process innovation in energy-intensive industries. Meanwhcile, it is necessary to optimize urban construction planning and improve the energy efficiency of buildings.

Social workers’ views on neglect of people with disabilities: From perspectives to practices

Summary This research explores the neglect of people with disabilities from the perspective of social workers in Israel, delving into the key issues and dilemmas surrounding their treatment. A qualitative approach was employed for this research. The study involved 40 social workers, with 25 completing an online qualitative survey and 15 participating in in-depth interviews. Thematic analysis was used to identify major themes related to the studied issue. Findings The research identified three major themes. The first theme focuses on social workers’ perspectives on neglect of people with disabilities. The second theme explores challenges in social workers’ coping with the phenomenon of neglect of people with disabilities. The third theme delves into factors impeding treatment in cases of neglect of people with disabilities. Applications The neglect of people with disabilities constitutes a serious social problem that demands changes in policy and practice. Consequently, there is a pressing need to establish a clear definition of neglect, implement a national protocol for addressing the phenomenon, enhance the training of social workers, and bolster supervision and control to improve the response to neglect experienced by people with disabilities.

Utilizing Baidu Index Data to Investigate the Spatiotemporal Characteristics of Public Concern towards Lifelong Education

Background and purpose: With the advancement of Industry 4.0 and the vigorous development of the Internet, search engines have become one of the important platforms for the public to obtain information. As the world's largest Chinese search engine, Baidu is widely popular with the Chinese public. Similar to Google Trends, the Baidu Index is one of the most important databases on the Internet and even in the entire data age. This study adopted the Baidu Index to investigate the public's attention to "Lifelong Education" and analyze its changing trend and geographical distribution, to grasp the public's attention to it in a more comprehensive way. Materials and methods: The Baidu Index was used to obtain the attention of the keyword “Lifelong Education" from July to November 2023. The characteristics of attention are analyzed from three aspects: trend research, demand graph, and user portrait. Finally, it focuses on the comparison between the keyword "Lifelong Education" and the related word "Lifelong Education Platform". Results: The term "Lifelong Education" showed two fluctuations during the period, both of which showed an initial rise and then a decline. For the demand graph, the public pays the most attention to "Lifelong Education Platform", "Lifelong Learning" and "Compulsory Education". The group that pays more attention to "Lifelong Education" is mainly distributed in East China, mostly female, 20~29 years old. Conclusion: Similar to Google Trends, the Baidu Index is a useful tool to study the trend of keyword searches, insight into the change in netizens' demand and monitoring the trend of media public opinion. The results show that the main reasons for the two obvious changes in search volume are that the National Open University of China opens freely lifelong education platform and provides free and comprehensive learning resources, and "Lifelong Education" appears as a translation in the National College English Test Band 4 (CET-4) in June 2023.

The Influence of Satisfaction on Service Quality and Intention to Recommend Mediated by Patient Loyalty

The purpose of this study is how the role of the Hospital as one of the health service facilities has a very strategic role in efforts to accelerate the improvement of the health of the Indonesian people. This strategic role is owned because the hospital is a technology-intensive health facility. This role is increasingly prominent considering the emergence of changes in disease epidemiology, changes in demographic structure, developments in science and technology, changes in the socio-economic structure of society, and services that are of better quality, friendly and able to meet the needs that demand changes in health service patterns in Indonesia. The analysis method is carried out through explanatory research, with the application of PLS / SEM. The concepts and problems studied look at the causal relationship, then explain the variables that cause the problems studied. The research sample was 384 respondents who had received services at a government tertiary hospital in Batam City. The findings of this study were patient satisfaction with the quality of service had a significant positive effect on patient loyalty. Patient satisfaction with the quality of service had a significant positive effect on the intention to recommend. Patient loyalty had a significant positive effect on the intention to recommend. Patient satisfaction with the quality of service had a significant positive effect on the intention to recommend with the mediation of patient loyalty

The diffusion of data privacy laws in Southeast Asia: learning and the extraterritorial reach of the EU’s GDPR

ABSTRACT The European Union’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) of 2016 is widely recognised as the benchmark global standard for data-privacy law. In recent years, countries across Southeast Asia have enacted or updated data-privacy laws with provisions that align with the GDPR. This paper explores the balance of internal and external forces driving these regulatory changes. It argues that a nuanced understanding of diffusion in the policymaking process allows us to see beyond the ‘Brussels Effect’ and how the increasing digitalistion of Southeast Asian societies has created increasing local demand for regulatory change. While an analytical focus on scripting in the drafting of GDPR-like laws focuses attention on the extraterritorial reach of the EU’s regulatory power, an analytical focus on problematisation points to different pathways of domestic learning regarding data privacy, especially in response to rising data-security threats.

Sustainable Dietary Patterns and Alternative Food Sources

Sustainable nutrition ensures optimal dietary intake by evaluating the life cycle of foods and their environmental impacts, aiming to meet current needs without jeopardizing the ability of future generations to do the same. It is characterized by low greenhouse gas emissions, minimal water footprint, efficient energy and land use, and reduced food waste. Sustainable dietary models, which have become increasingly important in the face of rising food demand and climate change challenges, include the Mediterranean Diet, Nordic Diet, DASH Diet, Double Pyramid Model, Flexitarian Diet, EAT-Lancet Commission Reference Diet, and Vegetarian and Vegan diets. Alternative protein sources such as algae, insects, and cultured meat are also significant. Algae offer sustainability through ocean use but have unclear metabolic impacts. Insects are efficient and environmentally friendly but require safety assessments. Cultured meat promises environmental benefits but faces cost and acceptance hurdles. Promoting sustainable eating habits requires a collective effort and is a shared responsibility towards our planet and ourselves.

Multi-Scenario Simulation of Land Use and Assessment of Carbon Stocks in Terrestrial Ecosystems Based on SD-PLUS-InVEST Coupled Modeling in Nanjing City

In the context of achieving the goal of carbon neutrality, exploring the changes in land demand and ecological carbon stocks under future scenarios at the urban level is important for optimizing regional ecosystem services and developing a land-use structure consistent with sustainable development strategies. We propose a framework of a coupled system dynamics (SD) model, patch generation land-use simulation (PLUS) model, and integrated valuation of ecosystem services and trade-offs (InVEST) model to dynamically simulate the spatial and temporal changes of land use and land-cover change (LUCC) and ecosystem carbon stocks under the NDS (natural development scenario), EPS (ecological protection scenario), RES (rapid expansion scenario), and HDS (high-quality development scenario) in Nanjing from 2020 to 2040. From 2005 to 2020, the expansion rate of construction land in Nanjing reached 50.76%, a large amount of ecological land shifted to construction land, and the ecological carbon stock declined dramatically. Compared with 2020, the ecosystem carbon stocks of the EPS and HDS increased by 2.4 × 106 t and 1.5 × 106 t, respectively, with a sizable ecological effect. It has been calculated that forest and cultivated land are the two largest carbon pools in Nanjing, and the conservation of both is decisive for the future carbon stock. It is necessary to focus on enhancing the carbon stock of forest ecosystems while designating differentiated carbon sink enhancement plans based on the characteristics of other land types. Fully realizing the carbon sink potential of each ecological functional area will help Nanjing achieve its carbon neutrality goal. The results of the study not only reveal the challenges of ecological conservation in Nanjing but also provide useful guidance for enhancing the carbon stock of urban terrestrial ecosystems and formulating land-use planning in line with sustainable development strategies.

Influence of Different Filler Systems on the Thermal Conductivity and Mechanical Properties of Thermosets.

The changing demands in terms of the compactness and performance of electronic devices increase the role of thermal management within this application field. Because polymers and especially thermosets have a low thermal conductivity, filler systems have to be used to improve their performance and make thermosets suitable for applications. So far, several factors influencing thermal conductivity have been defined; however, the combined investigation of mechanical properties as another important value in terms of applications has not been realized. Therefore, this paper analyzes thermal conductivity based on the orientation of fillers and a contact path as well as mechanical properties in different material systems. In addition to the matrix material, the filler type and grade and the geometry and size were varied. It was shown that boron nitride provides the best values in terms of thermal conductivity after orientation along the flow path is realized. An aluminum silicate was defined as the best filler system in terms of mechanical properties. However, the boron nitride was found to reveal the greatest potential in terms of applications, since the mechanical properties are likely to be increased by the usage of finishing additives such as silane.

Optimized Economic Production Quantity Inventory Model with Weibull Decay, Dynamic Holding Cost Under Varied Demand Scenario and Demand Series Analysis

This paper presents a sophisticated modification of the economic production quantity (EPQ) model. It incorporates Weibull-distributed progressive deterioration, dynamic holding costs, variable demand, and strong strategies for effectively handling shortages and backlogs. Targeting products that have a short-term expiration but can still be stored for a long time without significant deterioration, the model aims to increase production quantities while lowering overall variable expenses. The extended EPQ model utilizes Maclaurin series approximations to solve ordinary differential equations, effectively capturing the dynamics of inventory under three different demand patterns. The focus of this handle’s situations when the demand for a product changes in a predictable manner over time and considers the likelihood of defective goods during the manufacturing process. This approach provides useful insights for optimizing inventory management and production planning in the manufacturing of goods that are used up or consumed. The usefulness of the model is confirmed in the study through the use of two illustrative instances. Additionally, sensitivity analysis is utilized to suggest potential areas for additional investigation.

Comparison of passive and manual chlorination in small piped water networks in rural Ghana: Technical performance, ease-of-use, and cost

Chlorination is the most common water treatment method globally and leads to proven health benefits. Yet, many rural water supplies in low-income settings are unchlorinated, exposing consumers to waterborne diseases. Insufficient technical and financial capacity of water suppliers in low-resource settings are common barriers to more widespread chlorination. We conducted a case study of two approaches to chlorinate small piped water supplies− passive (inline) chlorination and manual chlorination− and compared their technical performance, ease-of-use, and costs in rural Ghana. Based on 685 water quality measurements across two piped networks over three months, both methods provided adequate free chlorine residuals (i.e., 0.2–2.0 mg/L) most of the time (71% for manual chlorination and 86% for passive chlorination). Follow-up measurements five months later revealed a decline in chlorine levels with the manual approach (47% in the target range) and an increase with the passive (inline) approach (100% in the target range). We observed large fluctuations in chlorine levels over time, particularly with inline chlorination, that pH, temperature, conductivity, and turbidity variations did not fully explain. Temporal changes in chlorine demand and/or inconsistently implemented protocols possibly contributed to these fluctuations. Inline chlorination scored higher for ease-of-use (85%) than manual chlorination (70%) but was less financially viable: it represented an 11% increase in operational expenses, compared to 4% for manual chlorination. Initial equipment and installation cost approximately 6,000 USD for inline chlorination and about 260 USD for manual chlorination. Our results highlight the tradeoffs between passive (inline) and manual chlorination. Although less favorable for ease-of-use, manual chlorination is more viable financially and can achieve comparable performance with strict dosing protocol adherence, suggesting this approach deserves similar consideration as passive chlorination when evaluating options for low-resource settings. Both methods are susceptible to changes in operator behaviors and require external oversight plus support for troubleshooting and recalibration.