Handling Cost Research Articles

AI Based Chatbots for Mental Health Care: A Systematic Review

Medicinal utilization of Expert systems for psychological resilience maintenance have proficient a accelerated float in the spent a small number of years. AI empowered chatbot shareware and administration have been supervising fundamental therapeutical hospitalization that were beforehand unique feasible from master and skilled medicare executives. Such resources, which orbit from “essential psychologist” to “community cybermens” in mental health, attempt to enhance serving production and cost handling, as well as gathering the mental health needs of unprotected and disadvantaged citizenery. Nevertheless, there is still a substantial gap between recent progress in AI mental health and the widespread use of these solutions by healthcare exponents in therapeutic settings. Furthermore, therapy are recurrently developed without clear ethical proceedings. While AI-enabled solutions show promise in the realm of mental health, further research is needed to address the ethical and communal aspects of these technologies, as well as to establish efficient exploration and therapeutic practices in this fresh sector.

High-Sensitivity RT-LAMP for Molecular Detection of O'nyong-nyong (Alphavirus onyong).

Mosquitoes serve as vectors for many arthropod-borne viruses (arboviruses) that are responsible for millions of human infections and thousands of deaths each year. Among these arboviruses, O'nyong-nyong virus (ONNV) is an African alphavirus mainly transmitted by Anopheles mosquitoes. ONNV can be detected through serological or molecular tests, the first showing cross-reactivity to co-circulating alphaviruses and requiring technically demanding confirmation, while the latter, usually based on real-time PCR, are costly and demand specific equipment. Isothermal amplification approaches, such as Loop-Mediated Isothermal Amplification (LAMP), should therefore provide a cost-effective, sensitive, and specific alternative for virus detection, suitable for the resource-limited regions where ONNV circulates up to the present time. Here, we describe the development and optimization of a rapid and highly sensitive (10 pfu/reaction) RT-LAMP assay for ONNV detection. Additionally, we demonstrate that it is possible to bypass the RNA extraction step, reducing sample handling time and costs. The final RT-LAMPONNV is a promising field detection tool for ONNV, enabling a better understanding of its impact and serving as a point-of-care diagnostic method.

Green Analytical Method for Perfluorocarboxylic Acids (PFCAs) in Water of Stir Bar Sorptive Extraction Coupled with Thermal Desorption–Gas Chromatography—Mass Spectroscopy

Perfluoroalkyl carboxylic acids (PFCAs) are a significant group of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs). They are persistent organic chemicals manufactured for their resistance to heat, water, and stains. PFCAs are ubiquitous in the environment, particularly in surface water and wastewater, because they are widely used in everyday consumer products. This contamination poses a risk to drinking water supplies and human health, necessitating sensitive and effective analytical methods. Traditional liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) is commonly used but involves complex sample handling and high costs. In this study, we developed an enhanced stir bar sorptive extraction (SBSE) method coupled with thermal desorption–gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (TD-GC-MS) for the analysis of PFCAs in water. This method demonstrates linearity, with R2 values from 0.9892 to 0.9988, and low limits of detection (LOD) between 21.17 ng/L and 73.96 ng/L. Recovery rates varied from 47 to 97%, suggesting efficient extraction. Compared to traditional methods, the developed SBSE technique requires only a 1 mL sample volume and minimal amounts of solvents, enhancing eco-friendliness and reducing potential contamination and handling errors. This method also demonstrated good precision and robustness across various water matrices. Overall, the developed method offers a precise, eco-friendly, and reliable approach for analyzing PFCAs in diverse water samples.

Morphological characteristics of activated sludge recovered from biological reactors impact on the energy requirement for centrifugal dewatering

The effect of sludge dewatering on handling and transport costs as well as the impact of various parameters like sludge characteristics, the used dewatering equipment and the adopted specific operating conditions, on the efficiency of this step, were considered in the present study. The influence of a laboratory-scale centrifugation for dewatering activated sludge (AS) was also investigated. Additionally, models to describe the relationships between independent variables like centrifugation speed, AS volume and fixed time and dependent variables like the percentage of solid cake (% GS). The used approach was based on the response surface methodology (RSM) along with a central composite design experiment, considering three distinct types of AS: healthy (BS), partially bulking (BF), and deflocculated (BD) sludges. The morphological characteristics of the sludge do have an effect on the operating conditions for the centrifugation, hence the energy consumption for a desired dewatering level. For the case of BS sludge, a centrifugation at 2600 rpm for 10 min, using a 10.3 mL plug, led to a solid cake of 12.65 %, whereas for BD sludge, with a higher centrifugation at 3000 rpm for 17.30 min and a smaller plug volume (8 mL) led to 6.82 %, roughly half of the previous percentage.

A Novel Approach for Material Handling-Driven Facility Layout

Material handling is a widely used process in manufacturing and is generally considered a non-value-added process. The Dynamic Facility Layout Problem (DFLP) considered in this paper minimizes the total material handling and re-arrangement cost. In this study, an integrated DFLP model with unequal facility areas, assignment of material handling devices (MHD), and flexible bay structure (FBS) is considered, and it is aimed to propose fast solution approaches. Two different solution methods are proposed for the problem, which are the genetic algorithm and the simulated annealing algorithm, respectively. In both methods, a non-linear mathematical model solution was used to calculate the fitness values. Thus, the solutions in the feasible solution space are utilized. The proposed solution approaches were applied to solve four problems published in the literature. The computational experiments have validated the effectiveness of the algorithms and the quality of solutions produced.

Redesign The Layout of Production Facilities at a Garment Company Using the BLOCPLAN Method to Optimize Material Handling

Facility layout design is crucial in production layout setups. The composition of facilities that corresponds to the flow of materials between departments will help to ensure the production system's continuity. PT. KMC is a garment company in West Jakarta that manufactures shirts, dresses, and t-shirt bloats. The company's current layout facilities have not run optimally. This is because inefficient movement distances result in wasted material handling costs, and crossing production flows between departments cause production processes to be disturbed. The objective of this project is to rethink facility layouts using the BLOCPLAN approach in order to optimize material handling. The BLOCPLAN approach may examine layout performance and generate new layout ideas for efficient material handling. The discussion is limited because this research was only conducted on one company. Based on the results of the layout redesign using the BLOCPLAN approach, various improvements were obtained, including a 37.12% increase in material handling cost efficiency. The proposed layout with the BLOCPLAN method is able to provide a reduction in material transfer distance of 22.6 meters and a material handling cost of Rp 155,346 when compared to the initial layout, which had a total overall displacement distance of 35.8 meters and an initial layout material handling cost of Rp 247,059, making it much cheaper.

Potassium hexafluorotitanate as a catalytic activator for direct amidation of carboxylic acids

Described herein is the direct amidation of a range of carboxylic acids, in moderate to excellent yields, using potassium hexafluorotitanate (K2TiF6) as a catalytic activator. The ready commercial availability, low cost, and ease of handling of the catalyst, as well as the simple, chromatography-free work-up of the reaction renders the process very appealing.

A Sustainable Strategy for Marker-Assisted Selection (MAS) Applied in Grapevine (Vitis spp.) Breeding for Resistance to Downy (Plasmopara Viticola) and Powdery (Erysiphe Necator) Mildews.

Plant breeders utilize marker-assisted selection (MAS) to identify favorable or unfavorable alleles in seedlings early. In this task, they need methods that provide maximum information with minimal input of time and economic resources. Grape breeding aimed at producing cultivars resistant to pathogens employs several resistance loci (Rpv, Ren, and Run) that are ideal for implementing MAS. In this work, a sustainable MAS protocol was developed based on non-purified DNA (crude), multiplex PCR of SSR markers, and capillary electrophoresis, and its application on grapevine seedlings to follow some main resistance loci was described. The optimized protocol was utilized on 8440 samples and showed high efficiency, reasonable throughput (2-3.2 min sample), easy handling, flexibility, and tolerable costs (reduced by at least 3.5 times compared to a standard protocol). The Rpv, Ren, and Run allelic data analysis did not show limitations to loci combination and pyramiding, but segregation distortions were frequent and displayed both low (undesired) and high rates of inheritance. The protocol and results presented are useful tools for grape breeders and beyond, and they can address sustainable changes in MAS. Several progenies generated have valuable pyramided resistance and will be the subject of new studies and implementation in the breeding program.

P-806 Heritable genome editing in haploid mouse embryonic stem cells

Abstract Study question Can we edit a specific gene by CRISPR-Cas9 in haploid mouse embryonic stem cells? Summary answer We successfully carried out heritable genome editing of a coat pigmentation gene in haploid mouse embryonic stem cells via electroporation. What is known already Embryonic stem cells have been widely used as a substrate to carry out genetic studies due to their availability, low cost and ease of handling. CRISPR-Cas9 has been successful in editing genes in the human model. Gene editing occurred by homology directed repair or non-homologous end joining. The utilization of a haploid genome would confirm the feasibility of non-homologous end joining repair mechanism. Study design, size, duration In the past 3 months, diploid as positive control and experimental haploid embryonic stem cells were independently cultured for genome editing experiments. Electroporation was used as a means to introduce CRISPR-Cas9 into cells. The negative control cohort consisted of embryonic stem cells electroporated without delivering any CRISPR solution. CRISPR-Cas9 was designed to knock out the Tyr gene to create an albino phenotype. Participants/materials, setting, methods Diploid embryonic stem cells were derived from C57BL/6 mice. The haploid counterpart instead was obtained from haploid androgenetic embryos using spermatozoa from Oct4-EGFP mice. CRISPR solution was prepared by combining Tyr gRNA and Cas9 protein. For each experiment, one million cells were suspended in CRISPR solution and an electroporation buffer. Then, electric pulses were applied for electroporation with 4 different parameters. Gene modification at the target site was confirmed using T7E1 cleavage assay. Main results and the role of chance A 584 base pairs region around the CRISPR target site was amplified in all the diploid and haploid mouse embryonic stem cells. After performing T7E1 cleavage assay, editing efficiency was calculated following the manufacturer protocol. Precisely, after testing out different electroporation conditions on diploid mESCs, 1350V/20ms/2 pulses together with the combination of three sgRNAs (exon 1 and exon 2) and Cas9 protein, provided the best genome editing efficiency at 36.8% with a viability of 80%. Interestingly, when delivering only one type of gRNA (exon 2) together with Cas9 protein, we saw an efficiency rising to 77.6%. We then used the same condition to edit the Tyr gene in the genome of haploid androgenetic stem cells and confirmed that also in these cells, we were able to obtain a comparable genome editing efficiency at 68.4%. Limitations, reasons for caution While these experimental observations are limited, it is encouraging that it is possible to target and edit a haploid genome with a single allele. Wider implications of the findings The utilization of a haploid cell culture model paves the way to utilize CRISPR-Cas9 for gamete genome editing. This will provide a consistent and reliable method to correct inheritable genetic conditions on gametes allowing uniform gene editing of all cell progeny. Trial registration number Not applicable

Simulation-Based Assessment of Hyperconnected Megacity Parcel Logistics

Background: The concept of Hyperconnected Megacity Parcel Logistics (HMPL) was introduced in 2018 and aims to enhance the efficiency, responsiveness, resilience, and sustainability of parcel movements in megacities. However, evaluating such fundamental solutions presents challenges and requires a comprehensive understanding of all stakeholders and decisions involved. Methods: This study introduces a discrete-event agent-based simulation platform that encompasses critical stakeholders and addresses various levels of decision-making. This platform provides an opportunity to evaluate key decisions within an HMPL structure. Results: To demonstrate the capability of the simulator, we assess the impact of package routing and consolidation strategies facilitated by HMPL compared to traditional practices. Preliminary findings suggest that increased interconnection among nodes in HMPL reduces transit times, thereby enabling tighter customer delivery services. However, examining different consolidation heuristics reveals potential trade-offs between handling and shipping costs under fixed shipment schedules, prompting further investigation into dynamic shipment services. Conclusions: The findings of this study suggest that the benefits of innovative approaches in a complex environment, such as parcel logistics, cannot be evaluated in isolation from other decisions. Accurate assessment of the ultimate outcomes and underlying trade-offs requires multi-faceted models that incorporate all key variables.

A hierarchical solution framework for dynamic and conflict-free AGV scheduling in an automated container terminal

Container terminals worldwide are experiencing their transitions into automated and intelligent terminals in the face of the ever increasing container handling demand and cost pressure. A key to cost-effective operations in automated container terminals is the efficient AGV scheduling algorithm that enables on-time fulfillment of container loading and discharging tasks. In this paper, we study an integrated task assignment and path planning problem for AGV scheduling in an automated container terminal. We propose a hierarchical solution framework to empower dynamic AGV scheduling, where the higher level employs a reinforcement learning algorithm for dynamic task assignment and the lower level makes use of a tailored path generation algorithm to generate low-cost and conflict-free paths for AGVs to serve the tasks. Additionally, we propose a container matching heuristic and a two-layer grid map to enhance the learning ability of the reinforcement learning algorithm. We compare the performance of the hierarchical solution framework against various benchmark methods on problem instances of practical scales. The results show that our approach is effective in reducing task delays and mitigating path conflicts, making the task assignment and path planning decisions more applicable for AGV scheduling in an automated container terminal.

Unlocking zinc storage in silver vanadate structures for high-performance aqueous zinc batteries

Zinc-ion batteries (ZIBs) are being increasingly recognized as promising candidates for large-scale energy-storage systems owing to their stability in air, abundance of elemental zinc, low cost, and ease of handling. Although various cathode materials have been explored for ZIBs, silver vanadate stands out for its highly stable structure. However, the presence of silver in silver vanadate may hinder its electrochemical performance, necessitating activation over several cycles. In this study, we introduce an ion-exchange reaction to directly activate silver vanadate. The resulting ion-exchanged zinc vanadate demonstrates superior performance compared with silver vanadate, showcasing stable cycling behavior and high-rate capability. Remarkably, it maintains a capacity retention of 71 % even after 400 cycles. Analysis of the zinc intercalation mechanism reveals a combination of capacitive and diffusion-based processes contributing to energy storage in ZIBs. Post-cycling examinations reveal the presence of dendritic zinc anodes and confirm the stability and safety of the framework, with no silver migration to the anode side. These findings highlight the potential of ZIBs as next-generation energy-storage solutions and underscore the need for continued research in optimizing electrode materials and electrolytes for practical applications.

Intermodal Transportation Challenges in Eastern Europe: Case Study of Romania

Abstract The purpose of this paper is to analyze data from the Romanian intermodal transportation sector and provide an overview of its main terminals (sea, river, road and rail) and the operational challenges faced by its most important logistics service providers. Intermodal transportation (by rail) is encouraged at EU level as a sustainable alternative to current predominant truck haulage. Most research articles outline issues with connectivity, terminal handling infrastructure and cost efficiency as factors hindering large scale adoption. Other authors tend to emphasize the more reliable delivery schedules, reduced road congestion and emissions as drivers of cost competitiveness on medium term. Relevant cargo volume traffic (tons, TEU and ITU) is analyzed at Romania’s main intermodal hubs in the last 10 years (2014-2023) using quantitative and qualitative data to provide a comprehensive overview of its overall competitiveness in this sector. Most Eastern European countries are faced with the same challenge in terms of intermodal transportation: the shortcomings of their supporting network due to insufficient public investment, highlighted by the results from Romania (case study method). Main results show Constanta Port had record cargo traffic in 2023, but its throughput is hindered by constant congestion issues, similar to the highly competitive road sector where intense truck traffic creates bottlenecks on the major roads leading to Western Europe. Cargo is also shipped via the Danube and freight trains, but to a limited extent due to low average speeds and inconsistent reliability along most sectors. The paper highlights the importance of a country’s strategic hubs and their connectivity (sea and/or river ports, main railway lines and road sectors) as a source of future growth and development perspectives, for terminal operators as well as neighboring regions (EU and EEA) through increased business activity.

Involvement of Private Pharmacies in the Biological Diagnosis of Malaria Cases: The Case of Côte d’Ivoire

Introduction. In Côte d’Ivoire, current policy recommends the introduction of rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) for malaria, including in the private sector, to facilitate effective case management. The main objective of the study was to examine the impact of introducing RDTs in private pharmacies with regard to national recommendations. Patients and methods. In order to assess knowledge, attitudes and practices after a few years of practice, a cross-sectional study was carried out from August to December 2015 among 300 professionals from private pharmacies (PPs) in the northern zone of the city of Abidjan. Results. Overall, PPs performing RDTs accounted for 25.1%. Fever (63.3%), headache (17.7%) and body aches (16.1%) were the main signs that led pharmacists to perform the test. The main criteria determining the choice of RDT are good sensitivity and specificity (45.6%), easy handling (42.6%) and lowest cost (11.8%). In 57.4% of cases, pharmacists performing RDTs said that the cost of the test (CFA 2000 or EUR 3 on average) is the main reason for non-acceptance by customers. In 97.1% of cases, the measures taken in the event of negative results were symptomatic treatment counselling followed by a medical consultation. In 2.9% of cases, some pharmacists recommended an antimalarial. On the other hand, in 92.6% of cases, the measures taken in the event of a positive result were antimalarial treatment with artemisinin-based combination therapies (ACTs). For pharmacies that did not carry out RDTs (74.9%), low customer demand was cited in 56.1% of cases. Conclusion. It would be appropriate for private pharmacy outlets to comply with the legislation by not carrying out RDTs within their pharmacies. Pending the implementation of these texts, it is imperative to improve on the shortcomings revealed.

PERANCANGAN TATA LETAK RELOKASI LANTAI PRODUKSI DENGAN METODE SYSTEMATIC LAYOUT PLANNING, BLOCPLAN, DAN FLAP

In the development of the industrial revolution 4.0, in carrying out production at small, medium, and large levels, there has been a fairly large and significant increase. Factors that influence the goal of successful production are not only about investment, capital, suppliers, machines, skills, and distributors but also one that must be observed is the layout planning and placement of factory facilities. PT. Eworx Indonesia is a company engaged in the processing industry, especially manufacturing in the metal processing sector. PT. Eworx Indonesia intends to relocate the production floor in order to increase production productivity. In this study, the proposed layout design on the new production floor was carried out using the SLP, Blocplan, and FLAP methods. The design is done by collecting direct observation data and interviews with the operator on duty. It was found that the initial layout had problems with operator movement that was not optimal and the placement of several machines and facilities that did not pay attention to material flow resulting in a slowdown in production time. Therefore, in order to get the best layout, a comparison is made on the results of the three alternative layouts with the smallest displacement distance comparison so that the production process will run more optimally. The best proposed layout is the systematic layout planning (SLP) method with the smallest material displacement distance of 147.4 meters and material handling costs Rp. 223,958 per day. Flexsim simulations show this layout can increase production output by 15%-34%.

Sequential use of blocplan, solver, and particle swarm optimization (PSO) to optimize the double row facility layout

Facility layout optimization is used to increase company productivity by minimizing waste on transportation, movement, and waiting time. It was mentioned in several previous studies that optimal facility layout can reduce production costs by up to 40%. Because of this importance, many previous researchers have carried out research in the field of Facility Layout. The differences between each Facility Layout research are in the characteristics and criteria being analyzed and the optimization method used. The several approaches used to optimize the layout are constructed algorithm, exact algorithm, and metaheuristic. These three methods have their respective purposes and to the best of our knowledge have not been used sequentially. So, this study aims to find the best layout for the double-row facility problem with aisle width consideration using three sequential methods. There are BLOCPLAN for the constructed algorithm, solver for the exact algorithm, and Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) for the metaheuristic. The result shows that the use of BLOCPLAN gives a better result of Total Material Handling Cost (TMHC) in PSO. For more machines, PSO has better results than Gurobi Optimization.

Perancangan Tata Letak Gudang Penyimpanan Material pada Perusahaan Air Minum dengan Menggunakan Metode Class Based Storage

PDAM Tirta Musi Palembang is a regional company engaged in the supply of clean water, especially in the Palembang area. The company still has not implemented the warehousing method properly. This is indicated by the presence of material with the highest frequency of picking placed far from the entrance and exit of the warehouse, the occurrence of long queues when picking up material for a unit in the warehouse, the aisle is used as the placement of goods, the labeling of materials is uneven, and placing goods in the area empty without regard to entry and exit. For this reason, it is necessary to improve the layout of the warehouse using the ABC Class-Based Storage method. The use of this method is based on the ease of managing the movement of goods in/out based on the frequency of movement of goods. Based on the results of data processing carried out, the grouping of materials using ABC analysis was obtained, namely Class A (HDPE Pipe, Sealtape, Elbow PE, Ferulle, Knee GS, and PVC Glue), Class B (Foucet Elbow and Knee PVC) and Class C (PVC Pipe, Clam Saddle, Box Meter, GS Pipe, and PVC Headlight). The Material Handling costs incurred in the proposed layout amounted to IDR 45,910687 (61.64% savings) which reduced the total distance by 66.30%. Keywords: ABC Analysis, Class-Based Storage, Material Handling Costs, Warehouse Layout

SLP Method Boosts Production Efficiency by 16% in Indonesia

The study on improving the facility layout at CV. Surya Mega Yokasa demonstrated that the Systematic Layout Planning (SLP) method significantly enhances the efficiency of the production process, with a total reduction in material displacement distance by 13.45 meters and an efficiency increase of 16%. These findings imply that careful consideration of workflow and qualitative factors in layout planning can markedly optimize production flow and reduce congestion. However, the study did not factor in the Material Handling Costs (MHC), suggesting that future research should integrate MHC analysis to provide a more comprehensive evaluation of layout effectiveness and further optimize production efficiency. Highlight: Efficiency Boost: SLP reduced displacement by 13.45m, increasing efficiency by 16%. Improved Workflow: SLP method improved production flow, reducing congestion. Future Focus: Include Material Handling Costs for better layout evaluation. Keywoard: Systematic Layout Planning, Blocplan, Production Efficiency, Material Flow, Facility Layout

Perancangan Tata Letak Proses Produksi Kursi Furnitur Menggunakan Metode Activity Relationship Chart (ARC) di PT. Rama Teknik

Rama Teknik Company, a manufacturing company in Indonesia founded in 2015, offers innovative business solutions based on research and development. The production process faces layout irregularities which result in disruptions in the production flow. The impact is that the material handling frequency becomes longer and causes material handling costs to become high. Apart from that, the company also experienced failure to achieve production targets. Decision making regarding layout and location is very important in determining a company's long-term operational efficiency. The aim of the research is to redesign the optimal factory layout. To improve the layout of workstations, the research department uses the Activity Relationship Chart (ARC) method which is implemented through FlexSim simulation software. The initial and proposed layouts were simulated using FlexSim software. The stages start from designing the initial layout, then looking for problem gaps. After that, redesign the new layout. The results of the initial layout show 309 finished products, representing a 100% output rate for Queue4 semi-finished goods, 5 warehouses, and 0 finished products in PL. After retesting with the proposed layout, the initial raw materials were 334.49, Queue1 had 285 items, and there was a 38% increase in finished products, a total of 427 seats.

A statistical Review on the Usage of Reclaimed Asphalt Pavement waste as a recyclable material

Construction is a part of human evolution, in ancient times people used wood and stone as construction materials as they were obtained naturally. As time passed, we learned about new methods and materials of construction. We started using concrete, steel, and asphalt as construction materials but these materials were costly and also had ill effects on the environment. In modern times construction techniques should be eco-friendly and economical as well. So, recycling construction and demolition waste is an option to deal with these problems. Reclaimed asphalt pavement (RAP) is a type of construction and demolition waste, which can be recycled after proper treatment. Reclaimed asphalt pavement materials are obtained from the milling of road pavement during reconstruction or maintenance work. These materials are mainly coarse aggregates and asphalt binders. The use of Reclaimed asphalt pavement with virgin crushed aggregates is widely accepted practice in several construction applications as it reduces the cost of construction, transportation, and handling. Properties of reclaimed asphalt pavement wastes are expected to be in an acceptable range with the conventional material but can be used as a partial or whole replacement for conventional materials. Reclaimed asphalt pavement also reduces the consumption or violation of natural resources. One of the primary advantages of using RAP is cost savings. Incorporating RAP into asphalt mixtures can significantly reduce material and disposal costs since it eliminates the need to extract and transport new aggregates. Additionally, RAP can reduce the demand for virgin asphalt binder In this review, a study was done on the usage of Reclaimed Asphalt Pavement as a recyclable construction material, and its physical and chemical characteristics are compared to conclude and provide its statistical review so that it can be used for sustainable construction works.