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Whole genome sequencing has become a powerful tool in modern microbiology. Especially bacterial genomes are sequenced in high numbers. Whole genome sequencing is not only used in research projects, but also in surveillance projects and outbreak investigations. Many whole genome analysis workflows begins with the production of a genome assembly. To accomplish this, a number of different sequencing technologies and assembly methods are available. Here, a summarization is provided over the most frequently used sequence technology and genome assembly approaches reported for the bacterial RefSeq genomes and for the bacterial genomes submitted as belonging to a surveillance project. The data is presented both in total and broken up on a per year basis. Information associated with over 400,000 publically available genomes dated April 2020 and prior were used. The information summarized include (i) the most frequently used sequencing technologies, (ii) the most common combinations of sequencing technologies, (iii) the most reported sequencing depth, and (iv) the most frequently used assembly software solutions. In all, this mini review provides an overview of the currently most common workflows for producing bacterial whole genome sequence assemblies.

The need for improved performance, operational efficiency as well as cost and environmental sustainability necessitate the selection of appropriate materials and assembly methods during railcar manufacturing and maintenance. The selection of the most appropriate materials and assembly methods amidst different materials is a Multi-Criteria Decision (MCD) which requires a scientific decision support framework. In this study, a model based on the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) was used for the selection of the most suitable material and method of assembly for the development and maintenance of the body shell of a railcar. The performance of stainless steel, aluminum and carbon steel as well as welding methods such as Laser Arc Welding (LAW), Friction Stir Welding (FSW) and Metal Inert Gas (MIG) and the Resistance Spot Welding (RSW) currently used in railcar development were examined. The strength to weight ratio, crash worthiness, mechanical properties, degree of formability as well as cost effectiveness, end of life, and functional requirements were the key decision variables that form the criteria, which were broken down into a number of sub-criteria. The criteria and sub-criteria were pairwise compared to determine their priorities to the design and service requirements (goal). The AHP gave a detailed analysis of the materials as well as the methods of assembly that meet the service requirements of the railcar in a hierarchical order. Hence, this work provides the application of decision support framework for meeting the increasing design and service requirements in the railcar manufacturing industries.

Increased industrial use of composite materials for manufacturing strong lightweight components stimulates endeavours for more efficient assembly methods. This study attempted to find an optimal method to provide optical aid for the placement of pre-impregnated reinforcing fabric (prepregs). A novel approach to optical assistance for the placement of prepregs was designed to be straightforward and affordable. The developed system meets industry standards for accuracy, and provides the solution at a cost many times less than existing solutions. The findings allow companies in the composite material industry to eliminate prepreg layup errors at an affordable price. 'n Toename in die gebruik van saamgestelde materiale vir vervaardiging van sterk, liggewig komponente stimuleer pogings vir meer effektiewe samestellingsmetodes. Die doel van hierdie studie was om 'n optimale metode te vind vir die optiese ondersteuning in die plasing van vooraf geïmpregneerde materiaal. 'n Nuwe benadering vir optiese ondersteuning vir die plasing van vooraf geïmpregneerde materiaal is ontwerp om bekostigbaar en eenvoudig te wees. Die ontwikkelde benadering voldoen aan die industrie se standaarde vir akkuraatheid, en bied die oplossing teen 'n prys wat aansienlik minder is as bestaande oplossings. Die bevindinge bied besighede in die saamgestelde materiaal industrie met 'n bekostigbare oplossing om vooraf impregnering plasing foute te elimineer.