Stock Outs Research Articles

Machine Learning in Sap for Inventory Optimization

Purpose: The reason of the study is to bring machine learning algorithms into the environment of inventory management in SAP systems. It deals in minimizing stock holding costs, avoiding stock outs and improving customer satisfaction by working on inventory practice. Methodology: Predictive analytics is then applied to forecast demand and make proactive inventory recommendations for the methodology. Other strategies are also explored around dynamic pricing, where inventory is turned leveraging real time data. Real time stock level assessments are proposed to be implemented with IoT sensors to avoid restocking before products are depleted. Findings: The results show that there are opportunities to continuously improve inventory management based on modifications of machine learning algorithms in response to changes in the market environment. Sensors integrated with predictive analytics can help eliminate those stockouts, optimize stock levels, all resulting in enhanced operational efficiency. Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Machine learning algorithms, dynamic pricing strategies, and IoT sensors are all to be integrated into SAP systems gives the study. The purpose of these technologies is suggested to improve the inventory management efficacy, lower costs and achieve the optimum stock levels to satisfy demand fluctuations. These systems should be continuously refined to keep pace with changing market conditions.

Improving efficiency and sustainability via supply chain optimization through CNNs and BiLSTM

Supply chain management is changing rapidly due to increasing complexity, uncertain demand, and the requirement for sustainable methods. Advanced technologies like Bidirectional Long Short-Term Memory networks (BiLSTM) and Convolutional Neural Networks (CNNs) can enhance supply chain processes. This paper proposes integrating CNNs and BiLSTM models to improve supply chain efficiency and sustainability. The proposed model employs CNNs to optimize resource allocation, uncover trends, and evaluate supply chain spatial linkages. Using BiLSTM models to capture temporal correlations allows accurate demand forecasting and proactive decision-making. Combining these models explains supply chain dynamics. CNNs and BiLSTM models' adaptive learning and real-time monitoring boost efficiency by responding quickly to changing situations. Predictive analytics optimizes inventory, lowers stock outs, and cuts lead times. Sustainability factors include transportation route optimization, carbon footprint minimization, and intelligent green-sourcing decision assistance. The proposed Hybrid Model achieved 94.65 % Specificity, 96.57 % Accuracy, 95.67 % Sensitivity and 0.85 % MCC. The result analysis demonstrates that the proposed model significantly improved the accuracy level. This research sheds light on supply chain difficulties from all sides. CNNs and BiLSTM models can boost operational efficiency and link supply chain practices with sustainability goals to produce a more sustainable global supply network.

Inventory Management Practices and Their Impact on Operational Efficiency: A Case Study of MGSSK Sugars Ltd.

In today’s highly competitive business environment, effective inventory management is vital for maintaining operational efficiency and ensuring long-term sustainability. Proper inventory control reduces excess stock and prevents stock outs, leading to cost reduction and improved cash flow. By utilizing precise forecasting and strategic replenishment methods, companies can enhance their adaptability to market changes and sustain a competitive advantage. This research provides a thorough examination of inventory management metrics spanning five years. The primary objective of the study is to evaluate the effectiveness of inventory management. The data was primarily collected from secondary sources, including five years of company inventory records. To analyze the data, the ratio analysis method was applied. The results demonstrate notable improvements in the company’s operational efficiency. Key performance indicators include a steady rise in the inventory turnover ratio and a reduction in average stock levels, showcasing effective inventory control aligned with increasing demand and minimizing surplus stock. Moreover, the study reveals a decreasing trend in inventory as a proportion of current assets, indicating a strategic shift away from relying on inventory for revenue generation. Additionally, variations in raw material values, coupled with consistent material consumption, suggest fluctuations in raw material usage efficiency. Furthermore, the relationship between the raw material turnover ratio and inventory holding period highlights the company’s proficiency in optimizing inventory management. The declining inventory conversion period indicates successful transformation of inventory into sales, boosting cash flow and operational efficiency. This improvement is attributed to advanced forecasting and stock replenishment strategies.

Analisis Peramalan Permintaan dalam Memaksimalkan Manajemen Rantai Pasok Menggunakan Metode Moving Average

Forecasting demand for screen-printed clothing products at the UMKM "D'mitz Screen Printing" in Sobrah Village, Wungu District, Madiun Regency helps with production control planning to maximize supply chain management for screen-printed clothing products. To predict future product demand, it is very important for UMKM to forecast market demand. Forecasting future demand is very important to avoid sales prediction errors that can cause waste, such as increased production costs due to sales predictions being too large, or stock outs due to sales predictions being too small, which results in customers having to wait longer to get the goods they want. Based on this problem, the UMKM "D'mitz Screen Printing" carried out a demand forecasting analysis for screen printed clothing with the aim of reducing waste and maximizing value. Forecasting demand for screen printed clothing for the next five months using time series analysis and moving average methods. Forecasting results for the period March 2022 to February 2023 show sequential forecasting values of 3266.67; 3300; 3250; 3283.33; 3233.33; 3316.67; 3333.33; 3372.22; 3305.56; and 3272.22. From the Mean Absolute Error (MAE) and Mean Square Error (MSE) calculations that have been carried out, the MAE value is 94.44 and the MSE value is 16018.593.

Tuberculosis commodities supply chain performance in the WHO African region: A scoping review.

Procurement and supply chain management [PSM] systems remain a critical pillar for the implementation of Directly Observed Therapy [DOTS] for tuberculosis [TB] and achievement of disease related aspirations such as 'ending TB by 2030'. We conducted a scoping review of literature using the Arksey and O'Malley [2005] framework to summarize and disseminate the results of available evidence in relation to TB commodities supply chain performance in the WHO African Region. We searched three electronic databases complemented by google search using relevant terms and identified 1,586 sources. Twenty-five studies published between 2009 and 2023 met the eligibility criteria, inclusive of 21 peer reviewed publications and four reports. The strengths we found included the existence of pooled procurement mechanisms [PPM], availability of funding through external sources, existence of logistics management information systems [LMIS] and integration of PSM systems into primary health care. The main challenge was frequent stock outs which mainly affected medicines for treating TB in children and those for preventing TB. Stock outs were found to follow a poverty gradient and pervasively inequitable since they disproportionately affected structurally disadvantaged populations and communities. Countries that rely on domestic mechanisms for procurement tend to be more vulnerable to stock outs due to inadequate and unpredictable financing, delayed disbursements of funds, longer procurement lead times and poor supplier management. We concluded that stock outs remain one of the foremost challenges to ending TB by 2030. We recommend leveraging existing performance-enhancing platforms such as PPMs, including utilization of such mechanisms by countries that utilize domestic resources to procure commodities. We recommend the design of people centric supply chains that are sensitive to the differentiated needs of the population to ensure that composite improvements in PSM performance do not mask underlying disparities. Context-relevant research is needed to inform future strategies for improving PSM performance.

Health System-Related Factors that Influence Retention in Care among HIV Infected Pregnant Women in Narok County, Kenya

Purpose: The aim of the study was to establish the health system-related factors that influence retention in care among HIV infected pregnant women in Narok County, Kenya. Methodology: The study adopted a cross-sectional mixed method design. Purposive sampling method was used to sample the required sample size of 117 HIV infected pregnant women, the participants of the Focus Group Discussions (FGD) and Key Informant Interviews (KII). The study was carried out at Narok County Referral and all the sub-county hospitals in Narok County. A structured questionnaire was used to collect quantitative data. Focus group discussion and KII guides were used to collect qualitative data. Quantitative and qualitative data was analyzed using SPSS version 21 and Nvivo version 14 respectively. Chi square test and logistic regression analysis were used to determine the health system-related factors that influence retention in HIV care. Thematic content analysis was done for qualitative data. The mean age of participants was 30 years (SD=6.48). The study results generated were presented in bar graphs and tables for quantitative data. Results were presented as narrations and triangulated with qualitative data. Findings: This study established that health system-related factors (waiting time, health care workers services and ARV availability) influenced retention in care among HIV infected pregnant women. However, only ARV availability had a significant association with retention in care (P<0.001, OR=0.19). The multiple logistic regression was used to predict the influence of grouped variables. Overall, the model was a significant predictor of retention in care. Health system related factors was found to increase the likelihood of being retained in care (OR=5.14), though not significant predictors of retention in care (P<0.34). Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: Health system-related factors particularly ARV drug stocks, healthcare workers staffing and timely access of services should be strengthened in order to avert stock outs, minimize waiting time and follow up patients who miss clinic appointments to increase retention among pregnant women in HIV care. Advocate for policy reforms aimed at addressing structural barriers to retention in care, including increased investment in healthcare infrastructure, workforce capacity building, and integration of HIV services within maternal and child health programs. By aligning policy initiatives with the unique needs of HIV-infected pregnant women, policymakers can foster an enabling environment for retention in care, ultimately contributing to the achievement of national and global HIV/AIDS targets.

Case-area targeted interventions during a large-scale cholera epidemic: A prospective cohort study in Northeast Nigeria.

Cholera outbreaks are on the rise globally, with conflict-affected settings particularly at risk. Case-area targeted interventions (CATIs), a strategy whereby teams provide a package of interventions to case and neighboring households within a predefined "ring," are increasingly employed in cholera responses. However, evidence on their ability to attenuate incidence is limited. We conducted a prospective observational cohort study in 3 conflict-affected states in Nigeria in 2021. Enumerators within rapid response teams observed CATI implementation during a cholera outbreak and collected data on household demographics; existing water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) infrastructure; and CATI interventions. Descriptive statistics showed that CATIs were delivered to 46,864 case and neighbor households, with 80.0% of cases and 33.5% of neighbors receiving all intended supplies and activities, in a context with operational challenges of population density, supply stock outs, and security constraints. We then applied prospective Poisson space-time scan statistics (STSS) across 3 models for each state: (1) an unadjusted model with case and population data; (2) an environmentally adjusted model adjusting for distance to cholera treatment centers and existing WASH infrastructure (improved water source, improved latrine, and handwashing station); and (3) a fully adjusted model adjusting for environmental and CATI variables (supply of Aquatabs and soap, hygiene promotion, bedding and latrine disinfection activities, ring coverage, and response timeliness). We ran the STSS each day of our study period to evaluate the space-time dynamics of the cholera outbreaks. Compared to the unadjusted model, significant cholera clustering was attenuated in the environmentally adjusted model (from 572 to 18 clusters) but there was still risk of cholera transmission. Two states still yielded significant clusters (range 8-10 total clusters, relative risk of 2.2-5.5, 16.6-19.9 day duration, including 11.1-56.8 cholera cases). Cholera clustering was completely attenuated in the fully adjusted model, with no significant anomalous clusters across time and space. Associated measures including quantity, relative risk, significance, likelihood of recurrence, size, and duration of clusters reinforced the results. Key limitations include selection bias, remote data monitoring, and the lack of a control group. CATIs were associated with significant reductions in cholera clustering in Northeast Nigeria despite operational challenges. Our results provide a strong justification for rapid implementation and scale-up CATIs in cholera-response, particularly in conflict settings where WASH access is often limited.

Automated dispensing cabinets and their impact on the rate of omitted and delayed doses: A systematic review

Use of automated dispensing cabinets (ADCs) is increasing in hospital settings. ADCs bring various potential benefits, among which are improvements to patient safety and reduction of medication errors. A core function of ADCs is to prevent medication stock outs by triggering an order when stock is reaching low levels. A quantifiable patient safety measure is the occurrence of omitted or delayed doses, which can range in severity from being negligible, to potentially fatal. The purpose of this review is to identify and synthesise the existing evidence regarding the impact of ADCs situated in secondary and tertiary care inpatient settings, on the rate of omitted and delayed doses as a specific subsection of medication errors. In April 2024 searches were conducted in Embase, PubMed and CINAHL, with additional articles discovered through citation searching and from colleagues. A total of 375 articles were returned from the search. Nine articles met the inclusion criteria. The most common reason for exclusion was due to lack of relevance. The included papers were focused on centres which had implemented six or fewer ADCs. The studies mostly presented findings which suggest ADCs have a positive impact on the rate of omitted or delayed doses, although crucially only two papers correlated missed doses due to unavailability of medications The studies highlighted other factors which should be considered prior to the implementation of ADCs. Factors included staffing requirement, type of stock held in the cabinets, and interoperability with other systems. Studies only reported omitted or missed doses, none reported results on delayed doses. It is widely accepted that ADCs can prevent medication unavailability but there is a paucity of evidence linking the improved availability of medications through the utilisation of ADCs with the perceived impact on missed or delayed doses. Further multi-centre studies are needed to determine this causality.

Optimizing E-commerce Inventory to prevent Stock Outs using the Random Forest Algorithm Approach

This research investigates the effectiveness of the Random Forest algorithm in optimizing e-commerce inventory management. In a digital business that continues to grow, inventory management is crucial for smooth operations and customer satisfaction. The Random Forest algorithm, a development of the CART method by applying bagging techniques and random feature selection, was tested to predict inventory. An experimental design is used to test the algorithm's performance algorithms performance, using data relevant to the observed inventory variables. The analysis involves evaluating the performance of algorithms in predicting and preventing stockouts. The results show that the Random Forest algorithm provides more accurate inventory predictions than traditional methods. Comparison with linear and rule-based regression reveals higher accuracy, making this algorithm a promising choice for e-commerce inventory management. These findings imply that the Random Forest Algorithm can be an effective solution in overcoming the complexity and fluctuations of digital markets. Practical recommendations include a deep understanding of the data, engagement of trained human resources, and training strategies for optimal use of these algorithms. This research also contributes to the literature by expanding understanding of the application of the Random Forest algorithm in various contexts, including forest basal area prediction, supply chain management, and backorder prediction. In conclusion, the Random Forest algorithm has great potential to improve e-commerce inventory management, opening up opportunities for broader application in the digital business world. Proactive adoption of these algorithms can have a positive impact on operational efficiency, customer satisfaction, and a company's competitiveness in an ever-evolving market.

Smart Shopping Trolley Using Internet of Thing (IOT)

Abstract: Currently, billions of consumers shop at large in shopping mall stores for their everyday necessities. In today's life, purchasing has become a part of everyday life. On holidays and weekends, malls experience massive crowds .The integration of Internet of Things (IoT) technology into shopping trolleys presents a significant advancement in the retail industry, revolutionizing the shopping experience for consumers. The proposed SST utilizes a network of sensors and connectivity solutions to enable real-time monitoring, inventory management, and personalized services. Through IoT integration, the SST offers features such as automatic item detection, seamless checkout processes, and personalized recommendations based on individual shopping habits. Moreover, the system empowers retailers with tools for efficient inventory management, reducing stock outs, and analysing consumer behaviour for targeted marketing strategies. Intelligent Carts and automated recognition systems are being utilized by merchants to enhance the efficiency of their offerings and to boost market demand, enabling them to save time and money.

In Hospital Experiences of Mothers of Children with Major External Birth Defects During Hospitalisation at a Tertiary Hospital in South Western Uganda

Mothers are regarded as primary care givers and in many African countries, women are culturally held responsible for the child’s health. The birth of a child with birth defect (s) may have significant impact on mothers psychological, physical and socioeconomic well-being. The in hospital experience of mothers of children with birth defects has not been adequately explored and therefore not fully attended to especially in low resource settings. At Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital (MRRH), the medical care team often is more directed towards medical treatment and surgery of the child born with a birth defect with little or no focused psychosocial support to their mothers.  Objectives The aim of this study was to explore and describe the experiences of mothers of children with major externally visible birth defects during their hospitalization at MRRH.  Method A phenomenological study with purposive sampling of 12 participants. The adjusted ecological model was used. Data was collected by self-report using unstructured face to face interviews until saturation was reached. Five themes emerged from the study which include: Negative emotional experience, acceptance of child’s condition, supportive part of the medical team despite some medical system challenges (like stock outs of medications and sundries, fewer staffs in the night) financial challenges and spiritual, family plus health team support were cope strategies.  Conclusion Mothers of children with major external birth defects were negatively affected especially, emotionally and financially. These mothers, therefore require psychosocial, financial and also spiritual support during their hospital stay at MRRH.

Stationery Management System

The Stationery Management System is a comprehensive software solution designed to streamline and automate the processes involved in managing stationery inventory for organizations. This system aims to improve efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance overall productivity by providing a centralized platform to track, control, and replenish stationery supplies. The system offers a user-friendly interface that allows authorized personnel, such as office administrators or procurement managers, to manage all aspects of stationery inventory effectively. It provides the following key features: Inventory Management: The system maintains a comprehensive database of stationery items, including details such as item name, description, quantity, and unit price. It allows users to easily add new items, update existing ones, and track stock levels in real-time. Purchase and Requisition: Users can generate purchase orders or requisitions directly from the system, ensuring a streamlined procurement process. The system can also integrate with external vendors or suppliers to automate order placement and tracking. Stock Monitoring: The system provides real-time visibility into the current stock levels of stationery items. Users can set up automated alerts to notify them when stock levels fall below a predefined threshold, ensuring timely reordering and preventing stock outs. Issue and Return Tracking: The system facilitates the tracking of stationery items issued to employees or departments. It enables users to record item issuances, monitor their usage, and manage returns efficiently. This feature helps prevent misuse and ensures accountability. Reporting and Analytics: The system generates comprehensive reports and analytics, offering valuable insights into stationery usage, expenditure, and inventory trends. These reports assist in making data-driven decisions, optimizing procurement processes, and identifying cost-saving opportunities. Integration and Accessibility: The system can integrate with other existing systems within the organization, such as accounting or Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) software, to ensure seamless data flow and minimize manual data entry. It also provides accessibility across multiple devices, enabling users to manage stationery inventory remotely. Overall, the Stationery Management System provides organizations with a centralized and efficient solution to manage their stationery inventory effectively. By automating key processes and providing real-time visibility, the system optimizes procurement, reduces waste, and enhances productivity, leading to cost savings and improved operational efficiency.

Perceptions of and barriers to uptake of contraceptives in plantation farming communities of Cross River State, Nigeria: A qualitative inquiry.

The contraceptive use in Nigeria is relatively low, indicative of the non-adoption of contraceptives by people of reproductive age to curtail the increasing fertility rate with its attendant consequences on the family. The non-use is attributed to numerous factors, including perceptions of and attendant barriers to the uptake of contraceptives. This study was aimed at assessing the perception of and barriers to the uptake of contraceptives among residents of plantation farming communities in Cross River State, Nigeria. It was a multi-sited qualitative descriptive study conducted in three Local Government Areas (Ikom, Yakurr, and Akamkpa) in Cross River State, Nigeria between March and April 2022. Nine Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) and twelve key informant interviews (KIIs) were conducted with respondents from three plantation farming communities. The FGDs were conducted on sexually active unmarried girls, married women within the reproductive age, and married men with spouses of reproductive age. The KIIs were conducted on health care providers, village heads, youth leaders, and women leaders. The generated data were thematically analyzed using both deductive and inductive analytical approaches. Married women were deemed eligible to use contraceptives, which are viewed as a method for preventing pregnancy. The information supplied by healthcare professionals was deemed insufficient for women to make informed decisions. Fear of side effects, dysfunctional health facilities, frequent stock outs, and spousal opposition were the most significant barriers to contraceptive use. Family planning programs should be targeted more at residents of rural areas to increase awareness, dispel misconceptions, and promote contraceptive use.

Faith-based pharmaceutical supply chains and their role in African pharmaceutical systems: a qualitative systematic review

For the health system to function well, the population must have equitable access to quality, affordable pharmaceutical supplies; however, pharmaceutical systems in Africa are challenged by inadequate funding, drug stock outs and irregular supplies, a shortage of trained pharmacy personnel, and a lack of systems for drug regulation and quality. Faith-based health providers, as private, not-for-profit actors, have long complemented public sector efforts in the supply of pharmaceuticals in Africa. However, the contribution of faith-based health providers in pharmaceutical systems has not been formally studied. This study examines the nature and function of faith-based healthcare providers in improving access to pharmaceutical supplies in Africa. To do so, we conducted an exploratory qualitative systematic review to identify documents that contain information on faith-based involvement in pharmaceutical supply in Africa. The review identified 20 articles for inclusion. These articles were analyzed using thematic, narrative analysis. The analysis revealed a significant evidence gap relating to the contribution of private-not-for-profit, faith-based providers to African pharmaceutical systems. The review suggests that while faith-based drug supply organizations have existed for a long time and contribute significantly to national pharmaceutical systems, there is very little known about the nature of faith-based pharmaceutical providers and how they complement public sector pharmaceutical systems. In many contexts, faith-based involvement in pharmaceutical systems improved access for the general population and increased the supply of pharmaceuticals in national systems. Faith-based drug supply organizations also often provide pharmaceutical supplies to both rural and urban areas, often targeting rural and remote areas particularly. The review also indicates that faith-based drug supply organizations improved access to medicines and related commodities and, despite a lack of regulation in many contexts, have the potential to make a positive contribution to quality assurance of pharmaceuticals. In summary, the analysis confirmed that faith-based involvement in pharmaceutical supply chains contributes to strengthening the national health system by complementing the public pharmaceutical system through improved access to medicines and related commodities in Africa. These conclusions corroborate the need to continually document and acknowledge faith-based healthcare providers’ efforts which could guide the formulation of stringent, evidence-based strategies.

The effect of prescription patterns on the performance of the pharmacy department of a Regional Referral Hospital, Uganda.

Poor drug prescription patterns (PP) result in irrational medicine use, avoidable stock outs and drug expiries. This study primarily assessed the effects of PP on the performance of the pharmacy department (PD) of Mbarara Regional Referral Hospital (MRRH) Uganda. This was a mixed method cross-sectional study conducted in the outpatient department (OPD) of MRRH, questionnaires were administered to 86 prescribers and 300 patient prescriptions were reviewed. Ethical clearance was granted and informed consent of patients. Data were analysed, presented in the form of graphs, tables. The overall prescription fill rate was 60.5%, being higher among dental officers and lower among those who did not adhere to generic prescribing and EML. Medical officers made most prescriptions at 69.3%. Prescriptions with four (47.1%) and six (17.5%) medicines respectively were made by clinical officers. Of the 300 prescriptions, 76% adhered to the Essential Medicines List (EML), 62% used generic name including 87.3% from dental officers and 52.9% by clinical officersThe overall prescription fill rate was 60.5%, being higher among dental officers and lower among those who did not adhere to generic prescribing and EML. Medical officers made most prescriptions at 69.3%. Prescriptions with four (47.1%) and six (17.5%) medicines respectively were made by clinical officers. Of the 300 prescriptions, 76% adhered to the Essential Medicines List (EML), 62% used generic name including 87.3% from dental officers and 52.9% by clinical officers. Prescription pattern affected the performance of the PD of MRRH, calling for its continued monitoring to ensure that guidelines are upheld, EML and UCG are availed and utilized.

IMPLEMENTASI LEAN SIX SIGMA UNTUK MENURUNKAN VARIASI DAN WAKTU PROSES PENGADAAN OBAT DI INSTALASI FARMASI RUMAH SAKIT ISLAM AMAL SEHAT SRAGEN

Background: Drug management needs to be done to prevent stock out, over stock, and drug purchases due to emergency conditions. Reports of drug management problems at Amal Sehat Sragen Hospital are stock outs resulting in immediate drug purchases and patients do not get the drug as they should. Lean Six Sigma combines two methodologies to help speed up certain processes so they can solve problems faster while creating more value for customers. When combined, these create a powerful methodology for managing a business and completing tasks on time, on budget, saving money, adding value and increasing productivity.
 Objectives: Assessing the implementation of Lean Six Sigma to reduce variation and processing time for drug procurement at the Pharmacy Installation of Amal Sehat Sragen Hospital.
 Methods: The method used in this study is a mixed methods with a Participatory Action Research (PAR) approach.
 Results: The results of the sample data that has variations and processing time are correlated with criticality, cost, and performance values to obtain Importance Index (II) values. Calculation of Importance Index (II), before implementation, 3 items with high Importance Index (II) values were obtained, namely "Gabapentin 300mg" (8.7), "Metformin 500mg (11.8), and "Lisinopril 5mg" (10.7) which decreased after implementation to “Gabapentin 300mg” (4.5), “Metformin 500mg (3.2), and “Lisinopril 5mg” (5.3). Assessment of the effectiveness and efficiency of drug procurement by measuring the lead time in cycle I was 9 days 23 hours 25 minutes, decreasing to 4 days 7 hours 50 minutes in cycle III. The efficiency measure based on the Value-added ratio (VAR) in cycle I was 14% and increased to 34% in cycle III.
 Conclusions: The implementation of Lean Six Sigma with DMAIC (Define, Measure, Analyze, Improve, Control) and Participatory Action Research approaches (three cycles) was able to reduce variations in the drug procurement process (critical criteria, performance, and cost) and overall lead time in the drug procurement process at Amal Sehat Sragen Hospital.

Enhancing the Online Shopping Experience of Consumers through Artificial Intelligence

Artificial intelligence (AI) has revolutionized the online shopping experience for consumers. With AI-powered technologies, businesses can offer personalized recommendations based on consumers' browsing and purchase history. This creates a more tailored and convenient shopping experience, saving consumers time and effort. Additionally, AI can assist in fraud detection and prevention, ensuring secure transactions and building trust with customers. Moreover, AI chatbots are increasingly being used to provide instant and accurate customer support, answering queries and resolving issues promptly. As technology continues to advance, AI will play an even more significant role in enhancing the online shopping experience.AI can analyze vast amounts of data and identify patterns, enabling businesses to optimize their inventory management and supply chain processes. By predicting demand and optimizing product availability, AI helps reduce stock outs and overstocks, leading to increased customer satisfaction. AI-powered virtual try-on technology is also gaining popularity, allowing consumers to virtually try on clothing, accessories, and even makeup before making a purchase. This helps them make more informed buying decisions and reduces the likelihood of returns. Overall, AI is transforming the online shopping landscape by improving personalization, security, customer support, and product discovery, making the experience more enjoyable and efficient for consumers.

Impact de la COVID-19 sur les services de prévention du VIH et de prise en charge des personnes vivant avec le VIH dans la ville de Bukavu : une étude mixte séquentielle explicative

Introduction : Depuis son apparition fin 2019 en Chine, les mesures de riposte contre l’infection à COVID-19 ont perturbé la prestation des services de santé primaires dont ceux liés au virus de l’immunodéficience humaine (VIH). En République démocratique du Congo, l’effet des mesures anti-COVID-19 (confinement) sur l’utilisation des services de prévention du VIH et de prise en charge des personnes vivant avec le VIH (PVVIH) reste peu décrit à ce jour. Objectif : Comparer et comprendre l’effet des mesures anti-COVID-19 sur l’utilisation des services préventifs du VIH et de prise en charge des PVVIH dans les Centres de traitement ambulatoire (CTA) de Bukavu avant (octobre 2019 à février 2020) et pendant (mars à juillet 2020) la période des mesures anti-COVID-19. Méthodes : Étude mixte multisite avec un devis séquentiel explicatif réalisée à Bukavu entre juillet et septembre 2021. La phase quantitative est observationnelle, descriptive, rétrospective et basée sur des données programmatiques issues des CTA. La phase qualitative, guidée par les résultats quantitatifs, est basée sur 31 entretiens semi-structurés avec les soignants et les PVVIH. Résultats : Par comparaison avec la période pré-COVID-19, les mesures anti-COVID-19 ont entrainé une baisse de 11 à 20% des services de prévention du VIH et de prise en charge des PVVIH. Elles ont également induit les ruptures de stock d’antirétroviraux et de tests VIH, la réorganisation des services VIH, la contamination de certains soignants à la COVID-19 et le décès d’autres, ainsi qu’une baisse de l’utilisation des services VIH. Discussion et conclusion : À Bukavu, les mesures anti-COVID-19 ont eu un impact négatif sur le parcours de soins des personnes à risque et infectées par le VIH. Elles ont entravé les progrès vers les objectifs : 95% des personnes dépistées au VIH, 95% des PVVIH sous traitement et 95% des PVVIH avec une charge virale supprimée.

The prioritisation of curable sexually transmitted infections among pregnant women in Zambia and Papua New Guinea: Qualitative insights.

Curable sexually transmitted infections (STIs) are neglected in public health policy, services and society at large. Effective interventions are available for some STI but seem not to be prioritised at global, regional or local levels. Zambia and Papua New Guinea (PNG) have a high burden of STIs among pregnant women but little is known about the prioritisation of STI treatment and care among this group. We undertook a qualitative study to explore how STIs are prioritised among pregnant women in local health systems in Zambia and PNG. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 19 key informants-health care workers providing antenatal care, and policy and programme advisers across the two countries. Audio recordings were transcribed and translated into English and stored, managed, and coded in NVivo v12. Analysis used deductive and inductive thematic analysis. Findings were coded against the World Health Organization health system building blocks. Participants spoke about the stigma of STIs at the community level. They described a broad understanding of morbidity associated with undiagnosed and untreated STIs in pregnant women. The importance of testing and treating STIs in pregnancy was well recognised but many spoke of constraints in providing these services due to stock outs of test kits for HIV and syphilis and antibiotics. In both settings, syndromic management remains the mainstay for treating curable STIs. Clinical practice and treatment were not in alignment with current STI guidelines in either country, with participants recognising the need for mentorship and in-service training, as well as the availability of commodities to support their clinical practice. Local disruptions to screening and management of syphilis, HIV and other curable STIs were widely reported in both countries. There is a need to galvanise priority at national and regional levels to ensure ongoing access to supplies needed to undertake STI testing and treatment.

Numerical Analysis of A Spare Parts Supply Chain With Additive Manufacturing

With recent successes, the use of additive manufacturing (AM) has shown to be a viable alternative for the production of high quality spare parts in remote military or humanitarian missions. However, effective methods for finding inventory policies in such multi-echelon networks with dual sourcing have so far been missing. In a numerical analysis, we confirm that the use of AM in downstream echelons leads to significant cost reduction, as well as reducing inventory levels. A key insight we obtain is that AM reduces the dependency of upstream stock outs, opening the door for efficient heuristics to optimize base stock levels, like the method presented.