Supply Company Research Articles

Water Pipeline Leak Detection Based on a Pseudo-Siamese Convolutional Neural Network: Integrating Handcrafted Features and Deep Representations

The detection of leaks in water distribution systems (WDS) has always been a major concern for urban water supply companies. However, the performance of traditional leak detection classifiers highly depends on the effectiveness of handcrafted features. An alternative method is to use a convolutional neural network (CNN) to process raw signals directly to obtain deep representations that may ignore prior information about the leakage. The study proposes a novel approach to leak detection in WDS using ground acoustic signals, and demonstrates the effectiveness of combining handcrafted features and deep representations using a pseudo-siamese convolutional neural network (PCNN) model. Mel frequency cepstral coefficient (MFCCs) are selected as additional handcrafted features to traditional time- and frequency-domain (TFD) features. Based on the results of the model performance evaluation, the optimized PCNN model performs better than other methods, with an accuracy of 99.70%. A quantitative analysis of the PCNN demonstrates the effectiveness of handcrafted features and deep representations. Model visualization and interpretation analysis show that feature fusion occurs in the feedforward of the PCNN, hence improving the model’s performance. The present work can effectively support the development of novel intelligent leak detection equipment for WDS.

Evaluation of supplier selection in the defense industry using q-rung orthopair fuzzy set based EDAS approach

The main purpose of this study is to evaluate the selection criteria of supplier companies operating in the defense industry using fuzzy based decision-making models. In the study, supplier selection criteria were constructed through a detailed analysis of numerous studies conducted between 1966 and 2019. Delphi method and Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) are used in the analysis. In the implementation phase, four different companies were determined, then evaluations of experts who with worked with these companies at various times were collected. The q-Rung Orthopair Fuzzy Set (q-ROFS) based EDAS (Evaluation Based On Distance From Avarage Solution) method is applied in the evaluation stage. The sensitivity analysis is performed among other tests. Results show that, “Performance Criteria” is the only main criteria and “Product Performance”, “Quality”, “Price”, “Sustainability” and “Operational Controls” criteria are the sub-criteria that have significant effects on decision-making. In addition, it has been observed that these criteria affect the logistics performance of the companies. They are also the criteria that experts pay the most attention in purchases to be made. The analysis of past purchases with companies operating in the defense industry, shows that logistics performances of the companies have a positive effect on the customer satisfaction. In this regard, the supplier selection is a highly important issue. The study offers a novel method in determining the supplier selection in the defence industry that can be extended to many other industries. In this way, it opens new research directions in the literature.

Leonard Bernstein by Paul R. Laird, and: Leonard Bernstein: Ein New Yorker in Wien = A New Yorker in Vienna ed. by Werner Hanak und Adina Seeger

Reviewed by: Leonard Bernstein by Paul R. Laird, and: Leonard Bernstein: Ein New Yorker in Wien = A New Yorker in Vienna ed. by Werner Hanak und Adina Seeger Ann Glazer Niren Leonard Bernstein. By Paul R. Laird. (Critical Lives.) London: Reaktion Books, 2018. [ 213 p. ISBN 9781780239101 (paperback), $19.] Illustrations, references, bibliography, discography, and videography. Leonard Bernstein: Ein New Yorker in Wien = A New Yorker in Vienna. Edited by Werner Hanak und Adina Seeger. Vienna: Wolke, 2018. [ 176 p. ISBN 9783955930929 (paperback), €29.] Illustrations, chronology, references, bibliography. I am often amazed and secretly pleased at the public's fascination with Leonard Bernstein. Certainly, he is of great interest to me, as he is the subject of my doctoral dissertation and continuing research, but I am a bit surprised to realize how many other people find him equally compelling, although I should not be, given Bernstein's vast talent and charisma. Two recent books add to the extensive literature on him, likely because of his birth centennial a few years ago. Although neither work specifies the target audience, both seem to be intended for the general reader, and both came out in the same year, but the similarities stop there. Leonard Bernstein, draws on Paul Laird's rich knowledge as one of the leading Bernstein scholars of our age. Laird's book is much shorter than most Bernstein biographies, of which there are many, with each chapter highlighting what he calls key "moments" in Bernstein's life and focusing especially on his roles as conductor, composer, and music educator. The introduction is followed by eight chapters, each featuring well-chosen black-and-white photographs. In addition, there is a select discography and videography, plus a limited bibliography, which, rather surprisingly, omits articles and dissertations. The book's style makes it quite easy to read for either the generalist or specialist. Although some chapters feature a bit of musical analysis, it is not too technical. The book lacks an index, a deficiency making a quick search difficult. Not surprisingly, chapter 1 focuses on Bernstein's early life in Boston, including his family, school, and synagogue. Of his family, Laird astutely notes that Bernstein was a composite of his parents: "studious and religious like his father, occasionally suffering from dark moods, but also fun-loving and capable of great warmth like his mother, sharing her interest in films and other types of show business" (p. 12). Close friends and influences—Aaron Copland, Marc Blitzstein, and Dimitri Mitropoulos—are also introduced in this chapter. The next chapter picks up after Bernstein's graduation from Harvard. His father offered him a job with his successful beauty supply company, but Leonard was determined to find work in New York City. He performed with a group called the Reviewers; although this employment netted him little income, it did connect him with members Adolph Green and Betty Comden, later his collaborators on several musicals. Mitropoulos convinced Bernstein to study conducting, which he did at the Curtis Institute of Music in Philadelphia. During the summers, Bernstein attended Tanglewood, learning under conductor Serge Koussevitzsky, who "came to represent for Bernstein many of the things he hoped to be himself" (p. 27). Since Bernstein was ineligible for the draft during World War II because of his asthma, he concentrated on performing and composing—including his Clarinet Sonata and Jeremiah Symphony—while working as a transcriber for the music publisher Harms-Witmark. During this time, Bernstein dated both men and women while trying to determine his own sexuality. In chapter 3, we see Bernstein's fame increasing with more conducting opportunities and new compositions. At first, his options were limited, as no American-born conductor had ever headed a major US orchestra. On his birthday, 25 August 1943, however, he became the assistant conductor of the New York Philharmonic, which mostly entailed studying scores and being [End Page 410] ready in case he needed to take over. Bernstein got his chance on 14 November of that year when conductor Artur Rodzinski was unavailable and the guest conductor that week, Bruno Walter, was very ill. Bernstein became an instantaneous hit, serving as a guest conductor all over the world, including for the fledging...

Short-Term Forecasting of Power Consumption of Power Supply Companies Based on the Integration of Technologies of Analytical, Simulation and Expert Systems

Purpose of research is to improve software support and identify regularities in the processes of short-term forecasting of power consumption of power supply companies based on complementary integration of data mining models, system dynamics and expert systems.Methods. The principles of constructing predictive models of power consumption are given. A system analysis has been carried out and an ontological model of the subject area has been built, taking into account the technological and market environment. The classification of forecasting methods has been considered. The features of the information base for short-term forecasting, including data on actual power consumption and weather data, have been described. The requirements for software for making forecasts have been formulated. A block diagram of the system for forecasting power consumption of the market for the day ahead is built based on the complementary integration of data analysis and modeling software.Results. Scenarios for data processing in Loginom have been developed using the Arimax and Neural Network (Regression) processors to build forecasts based on actual power consumption and taking into account meteorological factors. A system dynamics simulation model that allows exploring the influence of meteorological factors (temperature, pressure, precipitation) on power consumption has been developed in Anylogic. Using Wi!Mi mivar constructor of expert systems, the task has been parametrized; indicators, relationships, rules have been set; a logical conclusion of the solution has been obtained.Conclusion. A block diagram of a system for forecasting the market's power consumption for the day ahead has been built. It is based on the analysis of retrospective information on actual power consumption and meteorological factors using data mining methods, system dynamics and expert systems applying Russian Loginom, Anylogic and Wi!Mi software tools.

The attack-reconnaissance squadron as a new formula and a new quality of the attack helicopter squadron of the Polish Armed Forces

This paper takes a comprehensive look at the current state of army aviation attack helicopter squadrons of the Polish Armed Forces. The aim of the article is to present a concept for the functioning of the attack reconnaissance squadrons of the Polish Armed Forces, which takes into account the identified requirements of the Land Forces of the Polish Armed Forces in relation to army aviation on the battlefield and the current limitations in the functioning of the attack helicopter squadrons of the Polish Armed Forces. To meet this aim, qualitative research included interviewing, observation and the collection and qualitative analysis of texts and documents. The study revealed that it is necessary to organise attack-reconnaissance squadrons with a modular organisational structure including: a headquarters, a command company, three attack-reconnaissance companies, an aviation maintenance company and a supply company, capable of conducting autonomous operations in independent directions (areas). The squadrons should be equipped with new attack-reconnaissance helicopters and unmanned aerial vehicles as well as equipment for their technical and logistical support that will be part of their individual subunits. The results of the research are the basis for further, in-depth research on the issue of improving the functioning of attack helicopter squadrons, so that they are fully capable of supporting the land forces of the Polish Armed Forces in large scale combat operations.

The Correlation between Supply Chain Performance and Information Technology

Supply Chain Performance is regarded as a crucial organizational performance indicators. Much effort has been made to enhance it. So, effective and efficient supply chains are recognized as a crucial strategic aspect for achieving several essential corporate objectives, such as improved customer service, enhanced efficiency, and enhanced competitiveness. Therefore, the objective of this study is to analyze the role of information technology on supply chain performance with information technology support as a mediator. The study has been designed based on a descriptive approach using a survey to collect data by questionnaire from Saudi logistics professionals. The potential respondents were members of Hyper Panda's top level of management and executive personnel who were familiar with the company's operations and supply chain procedures. There are 83 valid responses. The research result has several findings and outcomes that will inform future research. The study findings will shed light on choosing the most effective information technology with a significant influence on supply chain performance.

Faktor-Faktor Yang Mempengaruhi Kinerja Sistem Informasi Akuntansi Pada Perusahaan Umum Daerah Air Minum (Perumda) Tirtayasa Kota Pekalongan

The purpose of this study to examine the effects of the organizational size variables, personal technical skills, training and education programs, support from top management, and user involvement on the accounting information system performance simultaneously or in part. Purposive sampling was used in this study.This study had 50 respondents in its sample. The employees of the Tirtayasa Pekalongan Water Supply Company who had been working for more than a year in the counter/cashier, bookkeeping, cash, IT, engineering, PM and direct billing, customer data and accounts, CS, and marketing were the subjects of this study.
 This study utilized SPSS 27 for the multiple linear regression analysis method of data analysis.This study demonstrated that the performance of accounting information systems was significantly influenced simultaneously by organizational size, individual technical ability, training and education programs, support from top management, and user involvement. However, the performance of accounting information systems was influenced in part by the organization's size, individual technical ability, training and education programs, and support from top management. In the meantime, user involvement had no significant impact on accounting information system performance. Simultaneously the organizational size variables, personal technical skills, training and education programs, support from top management, and user involvement had significant effects on the accounting information system performance, and with a coefficient of determination or Adjusted R Square of 93,2%. 
 Keywords: organizational size, personal technical ability, training and education programs, top management support, user involvement, accounting information system performance

The sustainable development of rural-to-urban food supply chains in developing nations

PurposeThis paper explores how firms develop and mature sustainable supply chains (SSCs) in developing nations (DNs). The primitive resources, infrastructures and understanding of SSCs in DNs often hinder both the ability of SSCs to mature and their effectiveness in delivering environmental, social and economic goals. The purpose of this paper is to address these issues.Design/methodology/approachThrough the supply chain life cycle (SCLC) lens, the authors analyzed an embedded case study of a Vietnamese end-to-end food supply chain (using 32 semi-structured interviews and archival data) and interviewed senior leadership of three other food companies in early 2019. A post hoc study including five reinterviews in the same Vietnamese case company's supply chain also further validated the study in 2021.FindingsThe authors’ analyses reveal that changes in DN stakeholders' behaviors can quickly move firms' SSCs along the SCLC closer toward a mature stage, in which firms and their network stakeholders can create more sustainable value. They also identify strategies for firms to consider when developing their SSCs to activate these behavioral changes.Originality/valueWhile many authors discuss SSCs' benefits for the environment and society, few assess how firms can design and operate SSCs effectively given the limited resources, infrastructures and SSC knowledge in DNs. This paper offers a compelling framework focusing on engaging various DNs' stakeholders to understand the life cycle of SSCs in less developed countries, in order to accelerate DNs' firms through early development toward a more SSC.

The Effect of Work Environment, Work Quality, Emotional Intelligence, and Intellectual Intelligence on Employee Performance at PUDAM Tirta Bina Labuhanbatu Regency

This type of research is quantitative in nature, and the place of implementation of this research is PUDAM Tirta Bina, Labuhanbatu Regency. Data collection techniques used in this study were observation, documentation and questionnaires using a Likert scale. In this study, the population was 110 employees of the Tirta Bina Public Water Supply Company (PUDAM) in Labuhanbatu Regency. Samples were taken using the slovin formula, which was determined or a significance level of 0.05, so the sample size in this study was 86 people. The Fcount value in this study is equal to 37,005 > Ftable 2.48 with a significance value of 0.000 <0.05. From these results, it can be concluded that the Work Environment (X1), Work Quality (X2), Emotional Intelligence (X3) and Intellectual Intelligence (X4) simultaneously have a positive and significant effect on Employee Performance (Y). R Square from the analysis of the coefficient of determination of 0.646 means that Employee Performance (Y) can be explained by the variables Work Environment (X1), Work Quality (X2), Emotional Intelligence (X3) and Intellectual Intelligence (X4) of 64.6%, while the rest is 35.4% can be explained by other variables not examined in this study

Design and Simulation of a Hybrid Power System for St. Lewis in Labrador

St. Lewis is one of the isolated communities situated in Newfoundland and Labrador (NL). The easternmost province of Canada includes over seven thousand small islands with scattered populations. It brings various challenges to the electricity power supply companies, such as power outages and long resumption times due to the remote locations. Currently, three sets of diesel generators are supplying the electricity. The site is vulnerable to power outages if there is any malfunction of the generators or failure of the fuel supply through the trucks. Introducing an alternative energy source to the community can increase energy security and ensure livelihood for the residents. By utilization of the renewable energy, Greenhouse Gas Emission of rural communities can be largely reduced. This research aims to demonstrate St. Lewis as the epitome of hybrid renewable energy systems among those remote communities and the feasibility of alternative energy solutions for those communities.

Capacity Mechanisms in Europe and the US: A Comparative Analysis and a Real-Life Application for Greece

This paper presents a comparative analysis of various capacity mechanisms that are either in force or under approval in key countries/regions in Europe and the US. A detailed analysis on the necessities that led to the establishment of the capacity mechanisms, along with various fundamental technical and operational features associated with the design and operation of different capacity mechanisms, mainly in Europe (Italy, France, Germany, Belgium, Poland, Great Britain, Ireland, Cyprus) and complementarily in the US (PJM, New England), are presented. This analysis is complemented by a real-life application regarding the long-term capacity remuneration mechanism that is expected to be established in Greece in the near future. A detailed simulation of the envisaged capacity mechanism auctions under differentiated scenarios has been performed, regarding the future Greek power system operating conditions during the forthcoming decade (2022–2031). Test results illustrate that the outcome of the auctions is heavily dependent on the future energy generation mix and the market participants’ bidding strategy. Whereas, the total cost that will have to be undertaken by the electricity supply companies and, ultimately, by the end-consumers for the financing of the proposed capacity mechanism lies in the range of 5.5–8.7 €/MWh for the entire study period.

Impact of Internal Audit by an Adequate Internal Oversight Unit on PDAM Bondowoso Regency with Good Governance

The purpose of this research is to analyze the impact of Internal Audit by an Adequate Internal Oversight Unit on Regional Water Supply Companies in Bondowoso Regency with Good Governance. In this study, 36 samples of PDAM employees were taken from 40 questionnaires distributed. The research method used in this study is an analytical descriptive survey method using qualitative research. The results of this study indicate that internal audit, management of the implementation of inspection activities, follow-up activities on the results of inspections play a role in the realization of good corporate governance in PDAM Bondowoso Regency. Meanwhile, the independence, competence, and professionalism of an Internal Auditor for PDAM Bondowoso Regency did not contribute positively to the implementation of the Bondowoso Regency Water Supply Company with Good Governance. Based on the results of this study, the researchers tried to help by providing suggestions so that the Auditors (Internal Oversight Unit) at PDAM Bondowoso Regency were more independent by upholding an objective, independent and professional attitude. Bondowoso Regency should conduct testing and evaluation of the operationalization of the entire organization and operational audits that must be part of the Internal Auditor (SPI), this will help the company to achieve organizational goals, the role of the Internal Auditor (SPI) is not only as a supervisor, but also implementing overall inspection duties and tasks.

Assessment of Microbial Contamination in the Infulene River Basin, Mozambique

Water microbial contamination is one of the major threats to human health. The study focus is on Infulene River Basin, a urban catchment with mainly informal settlements, with limited water supply and sanitation. In the catchment there are two wastewater treatment plants, one hospital and beer factory located on the banks of the main stream; water from this stream is used for urban agriculture and domestic uses by some dwellers. These factors present a significant health risk from water-borne diseases. At the moment there is limited knowledge about the level of microbial contamination of the different sources of water at the disposal of the communities. Thus, a preliminary study on fecal microbial contamination was conducted targeting the Infulene River and the drainage system from the nearby Maputo city draining into the system, with additional investigation on the drinking water provided by the city water supply company. The quantification of Total Coliforms (TC) and Escherichia coli (EC) was conducted at several sampling locations. Results were compared with official drinking water standards. Eighty two percent (82%) and 61% of Infulene river water and drainage water samples were positive for TC (105 to 109 NPN/100 mL) and EC (105 to 107 NPN/100 mL), respectively. For drinking water samples, 63% and 23% were positive for TC (up to 6000 NPN/100 mL) and EC (up to 1000 NPN/100 mL), respectively. Higher microbial contamination was found in neighborhoods with the poorest sanitation and shallow groundwater, i.e., Chamanculo, Xipamanine, Mafalala, Aeroporto and Maxaquene, a situation that was more expressive during the rainy season. Overall, the study confirmed the high vulnerability to microbial contamination of all sources investigated due to poor sanitation and lack of drainage infrastructure. The risks to human health might be even higher considering that contaminated water is used for gardening of vegetable watering and domestic use.

Влияние экономических санкций на производство и ремонт инновационных вагонов

Economic sanctions against the railcar building and repair industries have affected the production of cassette bearings of axle boxes used in the production and repair of innovative railcars. Cassette bearings have a number of significant advantages (unique abilities of conical rolling bodies, compactness, small size and others) that allow to realize loads from the axle to the rails of 245 kN (25 tf) or more and thereby increase the gross weight of railway cars to 108 tf. Withdrawal of manufacturers producing bearings from the Russian market (Timken, SKF, Brenko) led to a sharp drop in the production and repair of innovative rail-cars. A comparison of the production volumes of rail-cars in February and May 2022 discovered that there was a significant reduction (at JSC «Uralvagonzavod» and JSC «Tikhvin Railway Car Building Plant»), and by August production had practically stopped. The sanctions forced companies producing bearings (EPK-Brenko, Tek-Com Production) and railcar repair companies to search for new suppliers of components, primarily bearings. Such supplier companies could be Wafangdian (ZWZ), Luoyang LYC (China) and SPZ Bearings (Uzbekistan). As a result of the measures taken and the significant intensification of work, it is assumed that a significant part of the demand for bearings will be covered by domestic plants. The sanctions intensified the refinement and stimulated the production of twincylindrical roller bearings, which, according to preliminary test results, demonstrated the same durability resources as conical cassette bearings (eight years of operation and 800 thousand km of mileage). The paper analyzes and presents the statistics of the production of domestic railcars equipped with cassette-type bearings, and the challenges associated with their production.

Greening Spirulina Value Chain Towards Environmental Sustainability in Malaysia

Greener methods should be implemented to encourage a transition towards more sustainable food production. The emphasis was on increasing the production of Spirulina (Arthrospira platensis). This study aims to outline a holistic approach for thoroughly analysing the Spirulina production chain to create a customised development plan for sustainability. A total of eighteen respondents from six sectors (Spirulina Producers, Research and Development Institutions, Suppliers of Inputs, Processing and Packaging Companies, Distributors and wholesalers, and Retailers) that are involve with the Spirulina chain have participated in this study. The SWOT analysis was used to determine the Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats related to the production chain of Spirulina intended for human consumption to conduct a structured strategic planning targeting process optimisation and environmental sustainability. The findings show greening the Spirulina value chain requires commitment and collaboration among related stakeholders. The weakness of standardised production practices, limited research and development, inadequate infrastructure and technology, and limited market access and distribution channels must be addressed through stakeholder collaborative efforts. Taking advantage of the opportunities of greening the Spirulina value chain will be an excellent place to start for the business to develop sustainably and increase its competitiveness. Greening Spirulina value chains offer significant potential for environmental sustainability in Malaysia.

Influence of ISO 9001 on the configuration of production planning and control

The target-oriented configuration of production planning and control (PPC) is a critical factor for companies with increasingly complex supply chains. The logistical performance of companies, which can be measured and expressed, e.g. with the logistical objectives delivery reliability and due-date compliance, suffers above all from the multiple influencing factors of the past years. Especially in the last year, it became apparent that disruptions in material supply due to pandemics or geopolitical crises are causing resource shortages that are posing the industry with ever-new challenges. Since, in many companies, PPC tasks are carried out based on past values, disruptive events have a particularly high impact here. In addition to the external disruptive influences, companies also have to manage the complexity factors of the supply chain, such as a high number of variants or a high degree of customization. The consequence of these circumstances is that companies need corresponding robustness in PPC allowing them to stay productive and competitive. The key factor to establishing high robustness is transparency. Furthermore, the faced uncertainties are often exacerbated by insufficient data situation for the companies' PPC.Due to the outlined factors in companies, ongoing PPC tasks must be regularly checked for their quality and target conformity to ensure a high logistics performance. For this purpose, the PPC configuration must be carried out systematically and holistically. Therefore, essential PPC frameworks already exist, such as the Hanoverian Supply Chain Model (HaSupMo). Supporting the examination of the company's internal supply chain, the selected procedures for the fulfilment of the PPC tasks serve on the basis of logistical objectives. For this, comprehensive consideration of the PPC tasks must take into account the correct selection of procedures based on individual company needs and data.At the same time, there is an internationally accepted ISO 9001 standard as a basis for the continuous improvement of all company processes. The described continuous testing and improvement of business processes with a focus on quality management is intended to promote the robustness of the certified companies. Taking a closer look at the contents of ISO 9001 and PPC configuration, structural similarities are noticeable.This paper aims to examine ISO 9001 for characteristics and interfaces that enable a simplified PPC configuration. In addition, similarities should be identified and systematized, which should be taken into account for future interaction.

Review on technologies for improving energy efficiency of wastewater treatment plants: the case of the Hellenic water supply and sewerage company (EYATH SA)

Review on technologies for improving energy efficiency of wastewater treatment plants: the case of the Hellenic water supply and sewerage company (EYATH SA)

Review on technologies for improving energy efficiency of wastewater treatment plants: the case of the Hellenic water supply and sewerage company (EYATH SA)

Review on technologies for improving energy efficiency of wastewater treatment plants: the case of the Hellenic water supply and sewerage company (EYATH SA)

Power marketing strategy of power supply company

Power marketing strategy of power supply company

Implementing Ethical ‘Code of Work Ethics’: A Case Study of Apple and Foxconn Supply Chain

This study aims to find out Foxconn supply companies in increasing Apple production through forced labor carried out by workers who work at Foxconn without any guarantee of welfare and health and safety empowerment for their workers as well as guarantees of survival and a decent basic salary. This case study is strengthened by using the Global Production Network (GPN) theory, which relates to production networks across economic boundaries to the actors involved. Meanwhile, the role of the workforce is also involved in the GPN because as a supplier of labor it is not only involved in the interests of the company, but is also involved in the state structure and global capital structure. There is also an approach used by researchers using a qualitative research approach. The data used by the researcher is secondary data obtained from journals, official websites, report data, and several articles that have been validated. The implication of this research is to improve workers’ rights in a company under the protection of the Fair Labor Association. Companies are required to apply a Code of Work Ethics to their workers to improve the welfare of workers and build a better corporate image.