Logistical Challenges Research Articles

Assessing the Challenges of Transitioning to Organic Fertilizers: A Case Study in Mahaweli System-B, Sri Lanka

Mahaweli System-B, spanning the Polonnaruwa and Batticaloa districts of Sri Lanka, underwent a major shift in 2021 with the introduction of a government-mandated organic fertilizer subsidy program. This change aimed to promote eco-friendly farming by replacing inorganic fertilizers that had been used for decades. However, the transition posed significant challenges for farmers, particularly in the Dimbulagala Block, a key agricultural area known for its extensive paddy cultivation. This study investigates the constraints faced by farmers during this transition and evaluates their attitudes toward organic farming. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire survey conducted with 100 randomly selected farmers from six units of the Dimbulagala Block. Results revealed several critical barriers, including difficulties in transporting, storing, and applying organic fertilizers in field conditions. Farmers also expressed concerns about reduced paddy yields when using organic fertilizers, compared to traditional inorganic methods. Despite the availability of organic materials and training opportunities, these logistical and practical challenges significantly hindered adoption. Moreover, the study found variability in farmers’ adaptability based on their age, education level, and farming experience. The findings highlight the urgent need for improved infrastructure, such as better transport and storage solutions, and enhanced farmer support systems, including targeted training and financial incentives. Addressing these limitations could increase the acceptance and effectiveness of organic fertilizers, promoting sustainable agricultural practices in Mahaweli System-B and beyond.

Provider views on vasectomy: cultural, gender, and political elements of Men's decisions to seek publicly funded services

IntroductionEvidence suggests a new demand for vasectomies following the Supreme Court's Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization [597 U.S. 215 (2022), (Dobbs)]. Vasectomies are safer and more cost-effective than tubal sterilization. Understanding how to support men's use of this procedure is important to improving sexual and reproductive health and wellbeing (SRHW). This study is an exploration of health care providers' perspectives on the gender, cultural and political influences on vasectomies at Title X-funded clinics across all regions of the US.MethodsProviders or health services staff (N = 21) at Title X-funded settings currently offering vasectomy services in their own clinics or via referral were recruited using list serve and email outreach. Participants took part in one-on-one or small group interviews about vasectomy procedures, patient experiences, and trends. A thematic analysis of interview transcripts through an iterative process of reviewing, note-taking, and discussing data assessed provider views on patient cultural, gender, and political vasectomy influences.ResultsQualitative interviews yielded four themes related to participant access to services, including income challenges, language barriers, medical distrust, and societal gender roles that stressed women's responsibility for contraception. Two additional themes focused on men's fear of losing reproductive health options and desire to “step up” to do their part to prevent unplanned pregnancies.DiscussionInterviewees stressed that vasectomy was for everyone but identified sub-groups of men who still faced logistical and social access challenges to the procedure. Providers also believed that men were concerned over reproductive justice in the US and wanted to do their part to help prevent unplanned pregnancies. They thought that the Dobbs decision may mark a turning point in reproductive care that could ultimately better public health initiatives and overall SRHW by including men in the conversation. Vasectomy education, marketing—along with policy changes that ease access, can support this goal.

DIVÓRCIO NO BRASIL NO PERÍODO PRÉ E PÓS PANDEMIA DA COVID-19: UM ESTUDO ACERCA DA JUDICIALIZAÇÃO DO DIVÓRCIO NESSE PERÍODO

Divorce in Brazil reflects changes in family, social, and legal relations over time. This study explores the judicialization of divorce, highlighting its increase during and after the Covid-19 pandemic. Pandemic challenges such as mobility restrictions drove the adoption of digital solutions to facilitate legal procedures, although logistical challenges arose. The study's qualitative approach seeks to understand the factors influencing divorce and its implications, aiming to contribute to more effective policies. Research findings indicate a significant decrease in the number of divorces in Brazil in 2020, totaling 331.2 thousand cases, followed by a significant increase in 2021, reaching a record of 386.8 thousand divorces. In 2022, there was a decrease to 68,703 cases until November, reflecting fluctuations influenced by social and economic conditions during the pandemic. The transition to the virtual environment during the pandemic facilitated divorce processes, with virtual hearings and digital document signatures, overcoming logistical challenges and delays in legal procedures. The analysis reveals significant variations in the number of divorces during and after the pandemic, reflecting social and economic changes. The transition to the virtual environment facilitated legal procedures, while changes in family structures demand supportive policies. Future studies can further explore the impact of technological adaptations on the divorce process, including the effectiveness of virtual hearings and the security of online communications.

Drone-based medical delivery in the extreme conditions of Himalayan region: a feasibility study

IntroductionUnmanned aerial vehicles, or drones, have emerged as versatile tools across various sectors, including defence, agriculture, surveillance, mining, infrastructure, emergency response, transportation, geospatial mapping and notably medical supply delivery to...

Modeling for underground logistics system in the Korean metropolitan area

This study evaluated the development and validation of an integrated operational model for the Underground Logistics System (ULS) in South Korea’s metropolitan area, aiming to address challenges in urban logistics and freight transportation by highlighting the potential of innovative logistics systems that utilize underground spaces. This study used conceptual modeling to define the core concepts of ULS and explored the system architecture, including cargo handling, transportation, operations and control systems, as well as the roles of cargo crews and train drivers. The ULS operational scenarios were verified through model simulation, incorporating both logical and temporal analyses. The simulation outcomes affirm the model’s logical coherence and precision, emphasizing ULS’s pivotal role in boosting logistics efficiency. Thus, ULS systems in Korea offer prospects for elevating national competitiveness and spurring urban growth, underscoring the merits of ULS in navigating contemporary urban challenges and championing sustainability.

Christmas article: From diagnosis to delicacy: using MR and DXA scanners to roast Christmas duck

The holiday season poses a unique challenge for hospital staff, especially on night shifts, who must juggle their duties with preparing a festive Christmas meal. This study investigates the novel idea of using hospital MRI scanners to cook duck breasts during shifts. MRI scanners, which use magnetic fields and radiofrequency (RF) pulses for imaging, also generate heat, potentially suitable for cooking. To explore this hypothesis, we performed DXA scans on duck breasts to determine tissue composition and identify any metallic objects, such as shotgun pellets, that could pose risks in the MRI environment. We examined the Specific Absorption Rate (SAR), which measures RF energy absorbed by tissue. Given the similar water content between duck muscle and human tissue, we used human SAR values for our calculations. Our findings suggest that with careful adjustment of RF amplitude, magnetic field strength, and scan duration, it is theoretically possible to cook a duck breast to an internal temperature of 62°C within a standard 8-hour hospital shift. While the idea of using MRI scanners for cooking is intriguing, patient care must remain the priority. The limited availability of MRI scanners for culinary use may limit its practical application. Further research could explore cooking other holiday dishes and address logistical challenges for broader implementation. None. None.

Comparative Analysis of CNNs and Vision Transformers for Automatic Classification of Abandonment in Douro’s Vineyard Parcels

The Douro Demarcated Region is fundamental to local cultural and economic identity. Despite its importance, the region faces the challenge of abandoned vineyard plots, caused, among other factors, by the high costs of maintaining vineyards on hilly terrain. To solve this problem, the European Union (EU) offers subsidies to encourage active cultivation, with the aim of protecting the region’s cultural and environmental heritage. However, monitoring actively cultivated vineyards and those that have been abandoned presents considerable logistical challenges. With 43,843 vineyards spread over 250,000 hectares of rugged terrain, control of these plots is limited, which hampers the effectiveness of preservation and incentive initiatives. Currently, the EU only inspects 5 per cent of farmers annually, which results in insufficient coverage to ensure that subsidies are properly used and vineyards are actively maintained. To complement this limited monitoring, organisations such as the Instituto dos Vinhos do Douro e do Porto (IVDP) use aerial and satellite images, which are manually analysed to identify abandoned or active plots. To overcome these limitations, images can be analysed using deep learning methods, which have already shown great potential in agricultural applications. In this context, our research group has carried out some preliminary evaluations for the automatic detection of abandoned vineyards using deep learning models, which, despite showing promising results on the dataset used, proved to be limited when applied to images of the entire region. In this study, a new dataset was expanded to 137,000 images collected between 2018 and 2023, filling critical gaps in the previous datasets by including greater temporal and spatial diversity. Subsequently, a careful evaluation was carried out with various DL models. As a result, the ViT_b32 model demonstrated superior performance, achieving an average accuracy of 0.99 and an F1 score of 0.98, outperforming CNN-based models. In addition to the excellent results obtained, this dataset represents a significant contribution to advancing research in precision viticulture, providing a solid and relevant basis for future studies and driving the development of solutions applied to vineyard monitoring in the Douro Demarcated Region. These advances not only improve efficiency in detecting abandoned plots, but also contribute significantly to optimising the use of subsidies in the region.

A bibliometric analysis of customer experience in the omni-channel era

ABSTRACT In the fiercely competitive market, coordinating physical and digital channels to deliver a seamless omnichannel customer experience (OCX) has become crucial after the COVID-19 pandemic. However, existing research on OCX lacks a comprehensive understanding due to fragmented approaches. This underscores the critical necessity of establishing a structured framework to formulate an omnichannel customer experience strategy. To bridge this gap, this study conducts a multifaceted approach bibliometric analysis to examine influential aspects of literature from 2014 to mid-June 2023 using science mapping techniques. This research contributes by identifying research streams related to the need for recognizing aspects that affect the customer experience, the influence of technology, logistical challenges, and omnichannel fulfillment strategies. Furthermore, the study proposes a new comprehensive theoretical framework for OCX strategy implementation, which includes a proposed omnichannel supply chain structure. Implications for managers and researchers, along with suggested research questions to guide future investigations, are provided

Green Port Industry to Support the Offshore Wind Sector: A Proposal Framework

In recent years, offshore wind power has become increasingly relevant as a key alternative for contributing to the global economy’s decarbonization. Also, the accelerated technological development of the offshore wind turbine influences the increase in size and weight of its main components. This requires an appropriate port infrastructure to support the installation, operation, and maintenance and future decommissioning of offshore wind farms, and especially to serve as an area for manufacturing these components, addressing logistical challenges associated with land transport. This research aims to identify the factors that characterize a suitable port to support the offshore wind industry, also bringing the new green port industry concept. A systematic literature review was conducted via analyses of 126 documents, and a survey procedure was applied to validate the proposed model. As a result, a characterization model was proposed that includes 71 factors classified into 6 dimensions: physical characteristics, port layout, connectivity, port operation, port–farm performance optimization, and governance for sustainability, which is the main novelty of this study. The results contribute to the advancement of the offshore wind energy sector and can provide significant benefits for regional development and local communities with offshore wind potential.

Enhancing preoperative patient education through virtual reality: A leap forward in nursing practice.

Integration of virtual reality (VR) technology into preoperative patient education has shown potential to improve nursing practice. The study by Kim et al examines the impact of VR on nurse satisfaction, usability, and burnout. A prospective study involving 20 nurses and 80 patients was conducted, comparing traditional paper-based education with VR-based education in the plastic surgery ward at Chungnam National University Hospital. Findings demonstrated that VR significantly enhanced satisfaction and usability among nurses, while also reducing emotional exhaustion, a critical factor in nurse burnout. Consistency in education quality was also improved, ensuring uniform patient care. These results underscore the importance of VR in reducing the stress of repetitive tasks, improving job satisfaction, and potentially enhancing nurse retention. Future research should explore the broader applications of VR in healthcare and address the logistical challenges of integrating this technology into routine clinical practice. The study by Kim et al highlights VR's transformative potential in preoperative education for both patients and healthcare providers.

AI-Driven Optimization of Last-Mile Delivery

The optimization of last-mile delivery represents a critical challenge in modern e-commerce logistics, consuming a substantial portion of total shipping costs. This comprehensive technical article examines how artificial intelligence and machine learning technologies are revolutionizing last-mile delivery operations through advanced route optimization, demand forecasting, and resource allocation. This article synthesizes findings from recent implementations across major logistics providers, demonstrating that AI-driven route optimization systems significantly reduce delivery times and decrease fuel consumption across diverse operational environments. Analysis of machine learning models deployed by leading e-commerce platforms shows marked improvements in delivery time prediction accuracy, achieving unprecedented precision in estimated delivery windows. This article examines key technical components, including dynamic routing algorithms, predictive demand modeling, and real-time fleet management systems, while also addressing implementation challenges such as data quality and system integration. Case studies from major logistics providers demonstrate substantial ROI improvements following AI implementation, with particular emphasis on neural network architectures optimized for urban delivery scenarios. This article provides a technical framework for understanding how AI technologies transform last-mile logistics while offering insights into future developments, including autonomous delivery systems and smart city integration.

Rockin’ the Subsurface: Learning Geophysics with ‘Electromagnetic Odyssey’

In the education of applied geophysics, innovative learning tools are essential to bridge the gap between theory and practical field experience. Fieldwork is critical for reinforcing classroom knowledge and fostering peer interactions. However, it faces financial costs, physical accessibility, and logistical challenges, which can deter student participation and create equity concerns. To address these issues, adaptable educational models and digitalization are crucial. Integrating Information and Communication Technologies (ICT) has significantly enhanced learning processes, with alternatives like recorded fieldwork videos, high-resolution imagery, and virtual outcrop models gaining prominence, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. Through thoughtful design, video games offer educational potential by enhancing motivation and engagement. This paper introduces Electromagnetic Odyssey, an immersive learning tool to overcome traditional field trips’ financial and logistical constraints. The video game considers the application of Electromagnetic methods for groundwater exploration. Electromagnetic Odyssey aims to promote equitable access to quality education and motivate students through well-designed, technology-enhanced activities, aligning with educational principles emphasizing motivation’s importance in learning.

Enhancing supply chain resilience through artificial intelligence: Analyzing problem-solving approaches in logistics management

In an increasingly complex and unpredictable global economy, supply chain resilience has emerged as a critical priority for organizations striving to adapt to disruptions and maintain operational continuity. Artificial intelligence (AI) has proven to be a transformative force in addressing the challenges of logistics and supply chain management, offering innovative solutions for forecasting, decision-making, and operational efficiency. This research explores how AI-driven approaches can solve specific supply chain challenges, including demand variability, disruption management, inventory optimization, transportation inefficiencies, and supplier relationship management. The review proposes a comprehensive analysis of AI technologies such as predictive analytics, real-time monitoring systems, optimization algorithms, and autonomous systems, highlighting their contributions to enhancing supply chain resilience. By leveraging AI, organizations can improve their ability to predict disruptions, optimize resource allocation, and respond dynamically to real-time challenges. The research incorporates case studies and real-world applications to illustrate successful implementations of AI in logistics, as well as lessons learned from failed attempts. Additionally, the review examines the benefits of integrating AI into supply chain operations, such as improved risk management, enhanced decision-making, and increased adaptability to uncertainties. However, it also addresses the challenges of AI adoption, including high implementation costs, data privacy concerns, and organizational resistance to change. By presenting actionable insights and recommendations, this research aims to provide a roadmap for organizations seeking to harness AI to strengthen their supply chain resilience. The findings underscore the transformative potential of AI technologies in fostering robust, adaptive, and efficient supply chain systems capable of withstanding future uncertainties and disruptions. Keywords: Supply Chain, Artificial Intelligence, Logistics Management, Review.

Autologous mitochondrial transplant for acute cerebral ischemia: Phase 1 trial results and review.

The results of a Phase 1 trial of autologous mitochondrial transplantation for the treatment of acute ischemic stroke during mechanical thrombectomy are presented. Standardized methods were used to isolate viable autologous mitochondria in the acute clinical setting, allowing for timely transplantation within the ischemic window. No significant adverse events were observed with the endovascular approach during reperfusion therapy. Safety outcomes in study participants were comparable to those of matched controls who did not undergo transplantation. This study represents the first use of mitochondrial transplantation in the human brain, highlighting specific logistical challenges related to the acute clinical setting, such as limited tissue samples and constrained time for isolation and transplantation. We also review the opportunities and challenges associated with further clinical translation of mitochondrial transplantation in the context of acute cerebral ischemia and beyond.

Establishing an Extracorporeal Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation Program

Extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation (ECPR) is a complex, life-saving procedure that uses mechanical support for patients with refractory cardiac arrest, representing the pinnacle of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) applications. Effective ECPR requires precise patient selection, rapid mobilization of a multidisciplinary team, and skilled cannulation techniques. Establishing a program necessitates a cohesive ECMO system that promotes interdisciplinary collaboration, which is essential for managing acute cardiogenic shock and severe pulmonary failure. ECPR is suited for selected patients, emphasizing the need to optimize every step of cardiac arrest management—from public education to advanced post-resuscitation care. The flexibility of ECMO teams allows them to manage various emergencies such as cardiogenic shock, massive pulmonary embolism, and severe asthma, showcasing the program’s adaptability. Launching an ECPR program involves addressing logistical, financial, and organizational challenges. This includes gaining administrative approval, assembling a diverse team, and crafting detailed protocols and training regimens. The development process entails organizing teams, refining protocols, and training extensively to ensure operational readiness. A systematic approach to building an ECPR program involves establishing a team, defining patient selection criteria, and evaluating caseloads. Critical elements like patient transport protocols and anticoagulation management are vital for the program’s success. In conclusion, initiating an ECPR program demands thorough planning, collaborative effort across specialties, and ongoing evaluation to improve outcomes in critical cardiac emergencies. This guide offers practical insights to support institutions in navigating the complexities of ECPR program development and maintenance.

Analisis Strategi Pengembangan Bisnis Menggunakan Bisnis Model Kanvas pada Industri Logistik: Studi PT XYZ

This research analyzes and formulates the business strategy of PT XYZ using the Business Model Canvas to enhance and innovate in the logistics industry. The focus of the study is to identify logistics challenges, analyze the business model, develop business strategies, and provide policy recommendations to improve PT XYZ's competitiveness and operational efficiency. This research incorporates SWOT, PESTLE, and Porter’s Five Forces analyses in evaluating the nine building blocks of the Business Model Canvas. As a result, 26 strategies were developed, consisting of 9 SO strategies, 4 ST strategies, 6 WO strategies, and 6 WT strategies. Through focus group discussions and member checks, 9 priority strategies were identified and categorized into three approaches: short-term, medium-term, and long-term. The short-term strategies include offering competitive pricing packages, adopting innovative technology, and strengthening relationships with business partners. The medium-term strategies emphasize communication integration through social media and improving service quality. The long-term strategies focus on expanding the partner network and building innovative and sustainable partnerships. The implementation of the nine building blocks in the Business Model Canvas demonstrates PT XYZ's comprehensive adaptation to market dynamics and operational challenges, with the ultimate goal of strengthening its market position and supporting the company's sustainable growth.

Bringing negative pressure wound therapy to the community: expanding wound care access.

The transition of Negative Pressure Wound Therapy (NPWT) from hospitals to community care is a significant advancement in patient care, driven by increased practitioner competence and technological improvements. Modern, mobile NPWT systems, equipped with smaller pumps, have expanded treatment options and reduced hospital stays. However, discharging patients with NPWT systems introduces some logistical challenges, including staff training, supply management and effective communication between hospital staff and community teams. Practical challenges include achieving secure seals in difficult anatomical locations, managing patient mobility and adapting care practices to home environments. Despite these challenges, the benefits of community-based NPWT are well-documented, reducing hospital costs and improving patient outcomes. Collaboration with NPWT system providers is essential to ensure appropriate training for community nurses, especially given the variety of products used across different trusts. The successful integration of NPWT into community settings demands a collaborative and multidisciplinary approach, addressing logistical, training and operational barriers to maximise its potential in improving patient outcomes.

Scientific Validity and Fair Subject Selection: An Empirical Analysis of Recruitment Practices in Clinical Trials

This study investigates the relationship between scientific validity and fair subject selection in clinical trials, focusing on recruitment practices. By analyzing 200 clinical trials across oncology, cardiology, and neurology, this research identifies key barriers to diversity and assesses the effectiveness of institutional policies in promoting equitable recruitment. The findings reveal that despite efforts to improve inclusivity, demographic disparities persist, particularly in terms of racial and ethnic representation. Recruitment barriers, including logistical challenges, mistrust among minority groups, and insufficient outreach resources, are prevalent, with oncology trials exhibiting the most significant issues related to minority participation. Additionally, the study highlights that stronger Institutional Review Board (IRB) policies with enforced diversity guidelines lead to higher minority representation in trials. Through a mixed-methods approach, combining systematic trial reviews, surveys of recruitment personnel, and institutional policy assessments, the study emphasizes the importance of community engagement and culturally competent recruitment strategies. The research suggests that while progress has been made, greater transparency, targeted outreach, and mandatory diversity tracking are necessary to achieve equitable and scientifically valid clinical trial outcomes. The study concludes with recommendations for future research to explore technological innovations and broader therapeutic areas, offering potential solutions for overcoming the barriers to diversity in clinical trials.

Prevalence and factors contributing to missed opportunities for vaccination in Mogadishu, Somalia

BackgroundVaccination is a critical public health intervention that significantly reduces morbidity and mortality from vaccine preventable diseases. Despite the proven benefits of vaccines, missed opportunities for vaccination (MOV) remain a significant challenge in many low-income countries, including Somalia. This study aimed to determine the prevalence and identify the factors contributing to MOV in Mogadishu, Somalia. MethodsA cross-sectional study was conducted at various healthcare facilities in Mogadishu, Somalia, from January to March 2024. A total of 234 caregivers of children under five years of age were interviewed using a structured questionnaire. Data on sociodemographic characteristics, health service utilization, and reasons for missed vaccinations were collected. Logistic regression analysis was used to identify factors associated with MOV. Results: The prevalence of MOV in Mogadishu was 26%. Key factors contributing to MOV included low socioeconomic status, lack of caregiver awareness about vaccination schedules, logistical challenges within the healthcare system, and misconceptions about vaccine safety and efficacy. Knowledge and beliefs of mothers about vaccination significantly affected the MOVs in children. Not knowing if all children should be vaccinated is associated with higher probability of (MOVs), (AOR =13.006, 95% CI = 1.175-143.924, p = 0.003). ConclusionThe study highlighted a significant prevalence of missed opportunities for vaccination in Mogadishu, Somalia. Addressing these missed opportunities requires a multifaceted approach, including enhancing public awareness about the importance of vaccination, improving healthcare infrastructure, and ensuring consistent vaccine supply and proper storage.

"You First Have to Check Out the Doctors": Transition Expectations and Experiences of Survivors After Pediatric Cancer.

The shift from child-centered to adult-focused healthcare presents social and psychological challenges for adolescents and young adults with chronic conditions, which can affect their participation in follow-up care. This study aims to investigate the factors that influence patient-driven motivations for adhering to follow-up recommendations, while also exploring the barriers and supports that impact the transition process for pediatric cancer survivors. We developed interview guidelines grounded in the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) and the stereotype priming model (SPM). We conducted 10 episodic narrative interviews with pediatric cancer survivors during their transition phase. The interview transcripts were analyzed through qualitative thematic content analysis, followed by quantitative analysis using multiple regression models. This research is a part of the broader VersKiK study, which aims to propose enhancements to the organization of (long-term) follow-up care after cancer in childhood and adolescence in Germany. In this study, pediatric cancer survivors transitioning to adult healthcare showed varied motivations for follow-up care. Positive attitudes, driven by understanding the benefits, improved engagement, while anxiety and fear of losing familiar care created barriers. Family and peer support played a key role in encouraging adherence. Perceived control over healthcare management, supported by organizational help, was crucial, but logistical and financial challenges often undermined this control. Several motives underlying pediatric cancer survivors' behavior significantly influence their transition experiences. Enhancing positive attitudes, strengthening social support, and improving perceived control through targeted interventions may support smoother transitions to adult healthcare facilities. Registered at German Clinical Trial Register (IDs: DRKS00025960 and DRKS00026092).