Interruption Of Supply Research Articles

Assessing access to safe drinking water in flood-affected areas of District Nowshera, Pakistan: A case study towards achieving sustainable development goal 6.1

Access to safe drinking water is one of the most vital targets of sustainable development goal (6.1). However, climate change has become a significant challenge to safe water access. Climate-induced changes in rainfall patterns create many hydro-meteorological hazards such as drought, floods, and desertification. These hazards pose a major risk to the water supply system, particularly in areas vulnerable to climate change's impacts. The onset of these hazards may damage the hydro-ecological system and water supply infrastructure, cause an interruption in water supply, and pollute water resources. Therefore, assessing access to safe potable water after the onset of any hazard is crucial to ensure sustainable management. For this purpose, the current investigation aims to assess access to safe, potable water in flood-affected neighborhood councils of district Nowshera. The sample sites were purposively selected based on specific criteria, and 2 % (564) of households were surveyed using the Kobo collect tool. The six parameters, accessibility, availability, affordability, acceptability, water quality, and equity, were assessed for access to safe potable water using WHO and UNICEF standard procedures. The estimated results classified the study area access into safely managed (49.5 % to 51.77 %), primary (17.59 % to 47.92 %), limited (3 % to 94.67 %), unimproved (1.82 % to 41.46 %) water facilities. The current results provide the status of access to safe potable water and visualize the deprived households for priority action. This study indicates that recent flooding has significantly affected access to safe potable water. The methods and techniques utilized in current research can be used to monitor sustainable development goals. The present study highlights the need for a climate change perspective in addressing access to clean water in flood-prone areas. It identifies key factors for future research and policy action.

Active on-site calibration technology of current transformer based on non-rated frequency current injection.

This paper proposes an active on-site calibration method through background current cancellation and non-rated current injection. It can measure the error of the current transformer in service from 1% to 120% rated current percentage without power supply interruption. In order to establish the error relationship between rated frequency and arbitrary frequency, a theoretical analysis of current transformer calibration at the arbitrary frequency has been developed by means of the equivalent circuit. It describes a method to determine the phase angle and ratio errors of the measuring transformers at arbitrary frequencies on the basis of the calibrated error values at rated frequency. To prove the theoretical analysis, an experimental validation was carried out. The experimental results demonstrate that this active onsite calibration is a valid tool for the evaluation of current transformer performances. The calibration results showed that, for both cases (non-rated frequency calibration and mixing frequency calibration), the difference between mean ratio error and rated frequency ratio error was lower than 0.01%, and the difference between mean phase error and rated frequency phase error was lower than 1', which meets the requirement of the 0.2 accuracy class calibration.

Transformacja sektora energetycznego Unii Europejskiej

S Such geoeconomic and geopolitical factors as Russian armed aggression against Ukraine caused the energy crisis in the European Union (EU), exposing the EU’s vulnerabilities due to its overdependence on Russian fossil fuel imports. As a consequence of gas supply disruptions, substantial rises in energy prices and heightened safety concerns, the EU's energy policies have been thoroughly reassessed. Therefore, the article aims to examine the profound ramifications of Russia's military aggression against Ukraine on European energy markets and elucidate the strategies articulated in European Commission initiatives intended to reduce reliance on Russian fossil fuels. Within this framework, the REPowerEU plan is especially beneficial for the rapid diversification and increased integration of renewable energy sources. These initiatives have the potential to result in a structural transformation of the EU's energy landscape, necessitating coordinated regulatory initiatives, infrastructure advancements, and cooperative energy diplomacy. Current research reveals the potential for economic expansion, strengthened industrial primacy and progress towards achieving climate neutrality by 2050 through the environmentally sustainable metamorphosis of Europe's energy framework. The results of this scientific research can also be used for the further implementation of the strategy of achieving sustainable development of the EU member states in the context of the development of clean energy, which will allow meeting the needs of the population of these countries in the near future without endangering future generations.

Research on EU natural gas security and countermeasures based on two-dimensional cloud model

The disruption of natural gas supply in the European Union (EU) and the ensuing price volatility triggered by the Ukrainian crisis have underscored the critical importance of natural gas security. This study aims to assess the current state of gas security in 27 EU countries that heavily rely on natural gas imports. We propose a comprehensive framework comprising seven dimensions to delineate natural gas security, complemented by a set of 13 evaluation indicators. Employing an enhanced AHP-entropy weight method, TOPSIS method, and two-dimensional cloud model, we rigorously evaluate the natural gas security performance across these 27 EU nations. Through the identification of primary influencing factors and the categorization of natural gas security levels, we establish an overarching ranking of gas security in the EU27. Our findings reveal that the EU's natural gas security risk level is classified as level III, with availability and affordability emerging as key dimensions significantly impacting security performance. This assessment not only offers valuable insights for energy-import-dependent countries and regions but also furnishes assessment tools and indicators crucial for evaluating natural gas security across diverse geopolitical contexts.

Oxidative damage and cardiotoxicity induced by 2-aminobenzothiazole in zebrafish (Danio rerio)

There is limited information available on cardiovascular toxicity of 2-Aminobenzothiazole (NTH), a derivative of benzothiazole (BTH) commonly used in tire production, in aquatic organisms. In the present study, the zebrafish embryos were exposed to varying concentrations of NTH (0, 0.05, 0.5, and 5 mg/L) until adulthood and the potential cardiovascular toxicity was assessed. NTH exposure resulted in striking aberrations in cardiac development, including heart looping failure and interference with atrioventricular canal differentiation. RNA-sequencing analysis indicated that NTH causes oxidative damage to the heart via ferroptosis, leading to oxygen supply disruption, cardiac malformation, and ultimately, zebrafish death. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) analysis demonstrated the dysregulation of genes associated with early heart development, contraction, and oxidative stress. Additionally, reactive oxygen species accumulation and glutathione/malondialdehyde levels changes suggested a potential link between cardiac developmental toxicity and oxidative stress. In adult zebrafish, NTH exposure led to ventricular enlargement, decreased heart rate, reduced blood flow, and prolonged RR, QRS, and QTc intervals. To the best of our knowledge, this study is the first to provide evidence of cardiac toxicity and the adverse effects of ontogenetic NTH exposure in zebrafish, revealing the underlying toxic mechanisms connected with oxidative stress damage. These findings may provide crucial insights into the environmental risks associated with NTH and other BTHs.

A novel heuristic algorithm for disruption mitigation in a global food supply chain

The Global Food Supply Chain (GFSC) often encounters challenges in maintaining the continuous flow of essential food products such as rice and wheat. In this paper, we consider possible disruptions in supply and transportation in GFSC. Disruptions may cause severe food shortages in some parts of the world. Moreover, a disruption is not necessarily a single independent event, as multiple disruptions may occur sequentially or simultaneously. After any interruption, it is essential to reoptimize the remaining flow activities in a short period under the changed conditions. Although both the initial flow plan and post-disruption plan can be generated by formulating them as Mixed Integer Linear Programming (MILP) models, such a mitigation plan is challenging because of time constraints and when multiple disruptions are considered. To address this issue, we proposed a novel heuristic algorithm that revises the ideal plan in the event of a disruption. The developed heuristic can deal with different types of disruptions, as well as a series of disruptions. The performance of the heuristic was judged by solving 300 problem instances and comparing the results with those obtained from the exact method. To demonstrate the applicability of the proposed algorithm in practice, we have solved three real-world disruption Scenarios. The analysis of results uncovered crucial managerial insights, recommending strategies for disruption mitigation, and proved to be an effective method for post-disruption planning.

CONTENT ANALYSIS OF INTERNATIONAL NEWS ABOUT THE HEAT WAVES IN INDIA

Objective: The objective of this study is to present how heat waves in India are discussed by the media, to observe if they are being related to climate change. Theoretical Framework: The theoretical framework for this study is based on the intersection of media studies, climate science, and disaster management. Method: This study employs content analysis to examine how heat waves in India are discussed in the media, particularly in relation to climate change. It was studied 100 news available on-line in Google News. Results and Discussion: The results indicated that while climate change is frequently mentioned in the context of heat waves, the depth and context of these mentions vary significantly. Media reports tend to focus on immediate impacts such as health issues and infrastructure disruptions. For instance, there were numerous mentions of heat-related deaths, hospitalizations, and interruptions in water and electricity supplies. However, there was less emphasis on long-term solutions and comprehensive adaptation strategies. Research Implications: This study highlights the importance of media coverage in shaping public understanding and policy responses to climate change and extreme weather events. Originality/Value: This study contributes to the existing literature by providing a detailed analysis of how heat waves in India are framed in the media, particularly in relation to climate change.

Efficacy of Autologous Adult Live-Cultured Osteoblast (AALCO) Implantation in Avascular Necrosis of the Femoral Head: A Mid-Term Outcome Analysis.

Avascular Necrosis (AVN) of the femoral head, a condition characterized by the interruption of blood supply leading to bone tissue death, presents significant therapeutic challenges. Recent advancements in orthobiologics, including the use of Autologous Adult Live-Cultured Osteoblasts (AALCO), combined with core decompression, offer a novel approach for managing AVN. This study assesses the efficacy of this treatment modality in improving functional outcomes and hindering disease progression. This retrospective observational study encompassed 30 patients treated between 2020 and 2023 for idiopathic AVN of the femoral head, grades I to III, who had not responded to conservative treatment. Patients were excluded based on specific criteria including age, secondary AVN causes, and certain health conditions. The treatment involved a two-stage surgical procedure under spinal anesthesia with OSSGROW® for AALCO generation. Post-operative care emphasized early mobilization, DVT prevention, and avoidance of NSAIDs. Outcome measures were evaluated using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) for pain, modified Harris Hip Score, and annual MRI imaging for up to 36months. Among 26 patients (41 hips) completing the study, statistically significant improvements in pain and hip functionality were documented, alongside positive radiological signs of osteogenesis in the majority of cases. However, four instances required advancement to total hip replacement due to disease progression. The combination of core decompression and AALCO implantation shows promise as an effective treatment for AVN of the femoral head, with notable improvements in functional and radiological outcomes. This study supports the potential of orthobiologic approaches in AVN treatment, warranting further investigation through comprehensive randomized controlled trials.

GEOPOLITICS OF ENERGY RESOURCES: RECONSIDERING SECURITY AT THE GLOBAL LEVEL

The article analyses the impact of the russian-Ukrainian war on global energy markets as a trigger for rethinking the general context of energy security. Based on the latest scientific research, the author considers energy security issues' shifting from isolated aspects such as supply chain stability to an integrated geoeconomic approach. The article presents the factors that caused the national subjects' volatility regarding energy security depending on the energy market structure, relations between consumers and producers, supply and demand trends, technological changes, and readiness for potential energy supply crises or price shocks. The author's special attention is focused on the ties between energy resources and the military dimension, namely: 1) energy militarization as a cause of military actions; 2) energy resources as a secondary element of war; 3) energy profits as a source of financing armed conflicts. Against the background of increased strategic competition, most countries are leaning towards alternative spaces for developing joint political decisions, such as the friend-shoring concept, which signals a new form of protectionism for geopolitical reasons and the formation of potential chokepoints in supply chains. However, a transnational energy platform can catalyse the synergistic potential of allies, reduce security risks, and minimize supply disruptions due to political and economic influences. The success of a full-fledged launch of a transnational platform on energy security will depend on attractiveness strategies for "resourceful" but politically neutral countries; unification of production standards between participants; and the degree of reducing supply chain vulnerability relative to the participation costs.

Rhein Inhibits Cell Development and Aflatoxin Biosynthesis via Energy Supply Disruption and ROS Accumulation in Aspergillus flavus.

Aspergillus flavus and its carcinogenic secondary metabolites, aflatoxins, not only cause serious losses in the agricultural economy, but also endanger human health. Rhein, a compound extracted from the Chinese herbal medicine Rheum palmatum L. (Dahuang), exhibits good anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor, and anti-oxidative effects. However, its effect and underlying mechanisms against Aspergillus flavus have not yet been fully illustrated. In this study, we characterized the inhibition effect of rhein on A. flavus mycelial growth, sporulation, and aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) biosynthesis and the potential mechanism using RNA-seq analysis. The results indicate that A. flavus mycelial growth and AFB1 biosynthesis were significantly inhibited by 50 μM rhein, with a 43.83% reduction in colony diameter and 87.2% reduction in AFB1 production. The RNA-seq findings demonstrated that the differentially expressed genes primarily participated in processes such as spore formation and development, the maintenance of cell wall and membrane integrity, management of oxidative stress, the regulation of the citric acid cycle, and the biosynthesis of aflatoxin. Biochemical verification experiments further confirmed that 50 μM rhein effectively disrupted cell wall and membrane integrity and caused mitochondrial dysfunction through disrupting energy metabolism pathways, leading to decreased ATP synthesis and ROS accumulation, resulting in impaired aflatoxin biosynthesis. In addition, a pathogenicity test showed that 50 μM rhein inhibited A. flavus spore growth in peanut and maize seeds by 34.1% and 90.4%, while AFB1 biosynthesis was inhibited by 60.52% and 99.43%, respectively. In conclusion, this research expands the knowledge regarding the antifungal activity of rhein and provides a new strategy to mitigate A. flavus contamination.

Copper phosphate-rotenone nanocomposites for tumor therapy through autophagy blockage-enhanced triphosadenine supply interruption and lipid peroxidation accumulation

Malignant tumor cells feature rapid metabolism and proliferation that need a large amount of energy to maintain these physiological activities. Blocking energy supply through mitochondria dysfunction is an alternative strategy but is hindered by the limited blockage efficacy and the repairation of cytoprotective autophagy. Herein, a novel kind of bull serum albumin (BSA)-coated rotenone (RO)-copper phosphate (CuPi) nanocompsites was prepared for tumor therapy through autophagy blockage-enhanced triphosadenine (ATP) supply interruption and lipid peroxidation (LPO) accumulation. When internalization by tumor cells, these formed BSA-RO-CuPi nanoparticles (NPs) degraded to release RO, Cu2+, and PO43−. RO acts on mitochondrial complex I and reduces the activity of Fe-S clusters, and Cu2+ is reduced into Cu+ by ferredoxin 1 (FDX1) to induce dihydrolipoamide S-acetyltransferase (DLAT) aggregation. Thus, mitochondria function is severely damaged to cut off ATP supply. Meanwhile, Cu2+ depletes glutathione (GSH) through a redox reaction and produces hydroxyl radicals through the Fenton-like reaction, inducing the generation of LPO. Importantly, PO43− weakens lysosomal acidity to disrupt the autophagy capacity of tumor cells, resulting in damage accumulation. In vivo data demonstrated that these developed BSA-RO-CuPi NPs show desirable antitumor capacity and emphasize the importance of mitochondria dysfunction in tumor treatment applications.

Resilient and sustainable semiconductor supply chain network design under trade credit and uncertainty of supply and demand

Supply Chain (SC) performance appraisal extends beyond economic evaluation to encompass environmental and social impacts, as well as resilience to supply and demand disruptions. Thus, SC network design decisions should simultaneously optimize all these performance metrics as a primary objective. However, existing studies optimized these objectives independently or in a limited scope, failing to comprehensively address the interconnected nature of these performance metrics. Therefore, this study proposes a mixed integer linear programming (MILP) model with four objectives to address a multi-tier resilient and sustainable semiconductor SC network design problem under trade credit, supply, and demand uncertainties. The model aims to determine the optimal number and location of various facilities, the amount to order from suppliers, economic production quantities, quantity allocation between SC entities, and ideal supplier selections. The proposed supply chain network contributes to the global effort to reduce carbon emissions and enhance the circular economy by considering carbon trading, recycling, and the proper disposal of end-of life products. Uncertainties in input parameters are addressed using a fuzzy programming approach, while lexicographic optimization and the ɛ-constraint method are used to solve the proposed model. This paper presents a numerical example to illustrate the applicability of the proposed model and provide managerial insights. The numerical analysis results show that provided an appropriate confidence level for the uncertain parameters, the sets of Pareto optimal solutions can be generated. And it also shows that the total SC cost increases with decreasing carbon emissions level and increasing job opportunities created. This research advances sustainable and resilient supply chain management practices while offering practical guidance for decision-makers in real-world contexts.

Анализ последствий Брекзита на территории Великобритании: что дальше?

This study aims to analyze the consequences of Brexit in the United Kingdom and forecast the country’s further development. In the process, the research reveals the mounting political, economic and social problems caused by Britain’s withdrawal from the European Union. The crisis of skilled labor shortage due to the cessation of workforce influx from European countries to the UK and the consequent decline in British industrial productivity is identified. Additionally, challenges arising from increased tariffs on electricity, petrol, diesel fuel, British exports, consumer goods, and food are outlined. Difficulties associated with importing goods into the UK have placed households at risk of gas, heating, and electricity supply disruptions, casting doubt on the success of the British economy’s exit from the European Union’s integration structure. Moreover, conclusion dwells upon the fact that the state of British small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), which have ceased capital investment in the country’s economy and are considering development prospects through changing the jurisdiction of the UK, poses the greatest threat in terms of long-term economic growth deceleration.

Prediction-based decomposition optimisation for multi-portfolio supply chain resilience strategies under disruption risks

ABSTRACT This paper focuses on the design of supply chain (SC) risk mitigation and recovery strategies during long-term disruptions caused by the COVID-19 outbreak, which affect both suppliers and plants. Consequently, concurrent disruptions in supply and production are observed, which vary in duration and result in time-varying reductions in supply and production capacity. To cope with long-term disruptions, a modified multi-portfolio approach that integrates simulation and predictions is proposed to develop efficient mitigation and recovery plans. This approach involves selecting primary and recovery supply and production portfolios concurrently. To achieve this objective, time-dependent mixed integer programming (MIP) models that incorporate preparedness and recovery measures are developed to optimise SC operations. A prediction-based decomposition optimisation method is proposed to solve MIP problems and coordinate supply and production portfolios under disruptions and uncertainties. Furthermore, a heuristic approach is established to provide a comprehensive solution process. Finally, computational experiments and comparative analysis are conducted on a real-life case study. The results demonstrate that the proposed modelling and optimisation methods can effectively address disruptions and improve SC resilience. In addition, the developed models and approaches have the potential to serve as decision-making tools in SC management during disruptions.

Computing Optimal Mitigation Plans for Force-Majeure Scenarios in Dynamic Manufacturing Chains

We consider force-majeure supply disruptions in a dynamic, multi-product manufacturing supply chain with time-dependent parameters. We present a linear programming model that captures a specific force-majeure scenario with respect to several objective functions that can be combined in a multi-objective framework, e.g., minimization of loss, maximization of shortage-free time, or prioritization of mitigation types. Solving this model yields an optimal mitigation plan that describes how to best (re-)allocate supply and production operations. Supported mitigation options include plant-side safety stock, supplier-side inventories, and additional production thus reflecting the manufacturing setting of a large-scale industrial player. We describe a workflow for increasing the resilience of supply chains based on risk profiles generated by our approach.

Soft sensor for viable cell counting by measuring dynamic oxygen uptake rate

Regulatory authorities in biopharmaceutical industry emphasize process design by process understanding but applicable tools that are easy to implement are still missing. Soft sensors are a promising tool for the implementation of the Quality by Design (QbD) approach and Process Analytical Technology (PAT). In particular, the correlation between viable cell counting and oxygen consumption was investigated, but problems remained: Either the process had to be modified for excluding CO2 in pH control, or complex kLa models had to be set up for specific processes. In this work, a non-invasive soft sensor for simplified on-line cell counting based on dynamic oxygen uptake rate was developed with no need of special equipment. The dynamic oxygen uptake rates were determined by automated and periodic interruptions of gas supply in DASGIP® bioreactor systems, realized by a programmed Visual Basic script in the DASware® control software. With off-line cell counting, the two parameters were correlated based on linear regression and led to a robust model with a correlation coefficient of 0.92. Avoidance of oxygen starvation was achieved by gas flow reactivation at a certain minimum dissolved oxygen concentration. The soft sensor model was established in the exponential growth phase of a Chinese Hamster Ovary fed-batch process. Control studies showed no impact on cell growth by the discontinuous gas supply. This soft sensor is the first to be presented that does not require any specialized additional equipment as the methodology relies solely on the direct measurement of oxygen consumed by the cells in the bioreactor.

Using anticipatory orders to manage disruption risk over a short product life cycle

We study the impact of supply disruptions on sourcing strategies when product life cycles are short and future demand depends on current sales. We introduce the concept of order policies with anticipatory orders where some or all of orders with the unreliable supplier in future periods are moved to an earlier period. Using a 2-period model, we show that despite incurring additional holding cost when inventory is carried to a future period, anticipatory orders from the unreliable supplier are valuable when dealing with disruption risk when future demand depends on current sales. We find that anticipatory orders are less pronounced when future demand is more independent of current sales. We show that anticipatory orders from the unreliable supplier continue to be optimal for a range of disruption probabilities even when we include a responsive and reliable supplier.

The power of digital twins and concurrency

Supply chains are complex ecosystems, so quickly assessing the short and long-term impacts of events in such an ecosystem is a formidable challenge. We all know that the faster these assessments can be made, the better chance we have of responding and making decisions that will mitigate risk and supply disruptions. For instance, the case study about P&G rapidly adjusting its plans to respond to hurricanes1 is a classic example of why it is critical to make fast assessments amid disruption. While we intuitively understand the value of rapid decision making, it is difficult to quantify and provide a return on investment (ROI) analysis supporting investments in digital twins and concurrent planning. Why? Disruptions typically affect a limited number of sectors and enterprises, their durations vary, geographical impact varies and other events could be happening at the same time. All of this makes it difficult to assess a before, during and after. And then along came COVID-19. The pandemic’s impact was global, across all sectors and almost all enterprises, with a duration of well over a year, with a clear start and relatively clear end. This paper discusses the power of digital twins combined with concurrent supply chain orchestration in risk assessment and decision making as well as the impact on key financial results.

Study of Supply Chain Performance in Food Processing Unit

Abstract: This study investigates the performance of the supply chain within a food processing unit, aiming to identify key factors influencing its efficiency and effectiveness. A survey questionnaire was employed to gather insights from employees across different levels in the chain of procurement, manufacturing, distribution, and operations. The questionnaire was designed to different features of SCM, such as management of inventory, vendor relationships, transportation efficiency, and overall operational performance. The findings of the study highlight several crucial factors affecting the supply chain performance in the food processing unit. Firstly, the analysis reveals the significance of effective inventory management practices in reducing stockouts, minimizing holding costs, and improving order fulfilment rates. Secondly, the study emphasizes the importance of establishing strong and collaborative relationships with vendors to guarantee on-time delivery of material required, as well as mitigates risks associated with supply disruptions

A decision support framework to improve flow management in a supply chain subject to risks

ABSTRACT This research aims at developing an approach to assess the probability of meeting customer service level, while considering various risk factors present in a supply chain (supply disruptions, uncertainties in lead times, labour shortages, transport disruptions etc.). The work is conducted in tight collaboration with a leading actor of an aeronautical industry. Our model enables a better management of supply chain flows by improving two KPIs of interest for the company that operates in a MTO environment: on-time delivery (OTD) and depth of delay (DOD), by varying the repartition of flows between possible production and transportation modes. Change in transportation mode is indeed considered as a risk mitigation lever leading to sustainable operations. We first collect input data, which includes data related to the characteristics of the system under study (flow diagram, data pertaining to parameters such as lead time, cost, capacity…) and supply chain risks mapping. Then, we develop a discrete event simulation (DES) model considering supply chain risks to determine the best flow repartition enabling to satisfy KPIs considered. A performance evaluation module enables to calculate the probability distribution of the chosen KPIs. Finally, a multi-scenario analysis is conducted by varying different parameters that have an impact on OTD, DOD and the total cost.