Impact of information system flow on make-to-order manufacturer supply chain network: systems dynamics approach

Supply chain consists of multifaceted structure which focuses integration of all processes such as sourcing, manufacturing, and on-time distribution of end products to customers. Growing interest in supply chain systems has leaded the need to adopt proper approach which can manage complexity, and broadness of supply chain. The operations of supply chain are a function of many variables having strong interrelationships. Main objective of supply chain is optimization of performance of whole supply chain subjected to dynamic behavior. In this paper we model a framework to simulate supply chain operations with moderate complexity. This model has four echelons around a central make-to-order manufacturer with systems dynamics approach. The objective of this paper is to model the operation of the supply chain network and obtain a true reflection of its behavior with integrating information system flow. Furthermore, performance measures including inventory, safety stock, backlog, and customer satisfaction level are evaluated in primary condition and under four scenarios of four echelon of supply chain. Results of systemâs behavior are obtained through simulation of primary condition and each scenario during one year

A suggested prototype for assessing bone health

Background: Osteoporosis is becoming a health concern worldwide. Considering the fact that prevention, plays an important role in reducing the burden of this-silent disease and in view of the limited resources available, many countries have adopted certain programs to fight osteoporosis through shifting their attention towards at-risk individuals. The Iranian Multicenter Osteoporosis Study (IMOS) is one of these programs. The program aims to assess bone health and the prevalence of vitamin D deficiency in different parts of Iran with various altitudes, latitudes and lifestyle habits in a way that the results could be generalized to the country. Method: The present article presents the protocol used in the third phase of the study. It was designed based on the experiences gathered in the previous phases to overcome the shortcomings particularly subject loss. The questionnaire applied in this study was developed based on a thorough literature review of the risk factors and secondary causes of osteoporosis and was approved-by an expert panel. Results: While the majority of the existing studies aim to study a certain aspect of osteoporosis, the present protocol provides the information needed for policy makers and researchers to study different osteoporosis-related issues. Conclusion: The authors believe the protocol, to be implemented with small modifications, can help policymakers in different parts of the world, particularly developing countries, gather accurate information on different aspects of bone health at the national level