A new SQP type feasible method for inequality constrained optimization is presented,it is a combination of a master algorithm and an auxiliary algorithm which is taken only in finite iterations.The directions of the m...A new SQP type feasible method for inequality constrained optimization is presented,it is a combination of a master algorithm and an auxiliary algorithm which is taken only in finite iterations.The directions of the master algorithm are generated by only one quadratic programming, and its step\|size is always one, the directions of the auxiliary algorithm are new “second\|order” feasible descent. Under suitable assumptions,the algorithm is proved to possess global and strong convergence, superlinear and quadratic convergence.展开更多
An efficient culture medium producing a bacterial elastase with high yields was developed further following preliminary studies by means of response surface method. Central composite design (CCD) and response surface ...An efficient culture medium producing a bacterial elastase with high yields was developed further following preliminary studies by means of response surface method. Central composite design (CCD) and response surface method-ology were applied to optimize the medium constituents. A central composite design was used to explain the combined effect of three medium constituents, viz, glucose, K2HPO4, MgSO47H2O. The strain produced more elastase in the completely optimized medium, as compared with the partially optimized medium. The fitted model of the second model, as per RSM, showed that glucose was 7.4 g/100 ml, casein 1.13 g/100 ml, corn steep flour 0.616 g/100 ml, K2HPO4 0.206 g/100 ml and MgSO47H2O 0.034 g/100 ml. The fermentation kinetics of these two culture media in the flask experiments were analyzed. It was found that the highest elastase productivity occurred at 54 hours. Higher glucose concentration had inhibitory effect on elastase production. At the same time, we observed that the glucose consumption rate was slow in the completely optimized medium, which can explain the lag period of the highest elastase production. Some metal ions and surfactant additives also affected elastase production and cell growth.展开更多
In this paper, we propose a homotopy continuous method (HCM) for solving a weak efficient solution of multiobjective optimization problem (MOP) with feasible set unbounded condition, which is arising in Economical Dis...In this paper, we propose a homotopy continuous method (HCM) for solving a weak efficient solution of multiobjective optimization problem (MOP) with feasible set unbounded condition, which is arising in Economical Distributions, Engineering Decisions, Resource Allocations and other field of mathematical economics and engineering problems. Under the suitable assumption, it is proved to globally converge to a weak efficient solution of (MOP), if its x-branch has no weak infinite solution.展开更多
The particle swarm optimization(PSO)algorithm is an established nature-inspired population-based meta-heuristic that replicates the synchronizing movements of birds and sh.PSO is essentially an unconstrained algorithm...The particle swarm optimization(PSO)algorithm is an established nature-inspired population-based meta-heuristic that replicates the synchronizing movements of birds and sh.PSO is essentially an unconstrained algorithm and requires constraint handling techniques(CHTs)to solve constrained optimization problems(COPs).For this purpose,we integrate two CHTs,the superiority of feasibility(SF)and the violation constraint-handling(VCH),with a PSO.These CHTs distinguish feasible solutions from infeasible ones.Moreover,in SF,the selection of infeasible solutions is based on their degree of constraint violations,whereas in VCH,the number of constraint violations by an infeasible solution is of more importance.Therefore,a PSO is adapted for constrained optimization,yielding two constrained variants,denoted SF-PSO and VCH-PSO.Both SF-PSO and VCH-PSO are evaluated with respect to ve engineering problems:the Himmelblau’s nonlinear optimization,the welded beam design,the spring design,the pressure vessel design,and the three-bar truss design.The simulation results show that both algorithms are consistent in terms of their solutions to these problems,including their different available versions.Comparison of the SF-PSO and the VCHPSO with other existing algorithms on the tested problems shows that the proposed algorithms have lower computational cost in terms of the number of function evaluations used.We also report our disagreement with some unjust comparisons made by other researchers regarding the tested problems and their different variants.展开更多
BACKGROUND Clinical decision-making in urinary tract infections depends heavily on accurately distinguishing between pathogenic and non-pathogenic organisms.The interpretation of urine culture results is influenced by...BACKGROUND Clinical decision-making in urinary tract infections depends heavily on accurately distinguishing between pathogenic and non-pathogenic organisms.The interpretation of urine culture results is influenced by proper sample collection,the patient's clinical context,and organism-specific characteristics.However,there is currently no definitive method to determine whether a urinary isolate is truly pathogenic.This distinction is critical,as treatment decisions hinge on it.This pioneering study systematically applies a stepwise model to differentiate pathogenic from non-pathogenic urinary isolates—an approach not previously described.AIM To determine whether a urinary isolate is pathogenic(commensal,colonizer,or direct pathogen)or non-pathogenic(commensal,colonizer,or contaminant)using a structured,stepwise approach.METHODS This prospective,longitudinal,exploratory study was conducted over 24 months,starting in January 2022,at All India Institute of Medical Sciences Rishikesh,following approval from the Institutional Ethics Committee.A stepwise model developed by the investigators was applied to assess the nature of the isolates.Data recorded using REDCap,and analysis was performed using SPSS Version 25.RESULTS A total of 275 consecutive patients aged over 18 years with positive urine cultures—initially treated with antibiotics based on microbiological and clinical assessment—were included.The stepwise model classified 90.54% of cases as pathogenic(commensals:61.81%,colonizers:14.18%,and direct pathogens:14.54%)and 9.45% as non-pathogenic.The model showed that there could be a significant reduction in average hospital stay by over 13 days,along with saving approximately Rs.981 per patient in antibiotic costs in non-pathogenic cohort.CONCLUSION This novel model identified that approximately one in ten urinary isolates,initially considered pathogenic and treated with antibiotics,were in fact non-pathogenic.The model is safe,feasible,and potentially valuable in resource-limited settings,warranting broader validation and implementation.展开更多
Sites and landscapes of international geological significance are managed with a comprehensive approach of conservation,education,and sustainable development in UNESCO Global Geoparks,which comprise a single,cohesive ...Sites and landscapes of international geological significance are managed with a comprehensive approach of conservation,education,and sustainable development in UNESCO Global Geoparks,which comprise a single,cohesive geographic area.A growing number of people are adopting the bottom-up strategy,which involves local communities and combines sustainable development with conservation.The viability of creating a UNESCO-recognized geopark in Kutch is assessed in this study.This study examines the key geoheritage features of the Kutch region,explores the socio-economic prospects of a geopark through geotourism and community development,and evaluates its conformity with UNESCO’s Global Geopark criteria on conservation,education,and sustainability.The study also evaluates the overall feasibility of the project,its economic,social,and environmental implications,and the adequacy of the requisite infrastructure..Its geological,cultural,and historical significance,as well as socioeconomic and environmental factors,are the parameters considered for investigation.Despite multiple applications to UNESCO,the Gujarat region of Kutch,which is rich in geological,cultural,and historical elements,is not recognised as a World Heritage Site.In actuality,there are 195 geoparks in 48 nations worldwide as of 2023,however India does not have one.The findings of the study provide critical insights that can direct initiatives to establish India’s first geopark and promote regional sustainability.展开更多
To avoid collisions between a suspended object,cables,towing robots,and obstacles in the environment in a multi-robot suspension system,obstacle avoidance planning was studied based on a collaborative optimization met...To avoid collisions between a suspended object,cables,towing robots,and obstacles in the environment in a multi-robot suspension system,obstacle avoidance planning was studied based on a collaborative optimization method for force and position.Based on the analysis of the kinematics and dynamics of the system,the inverse kinematics and inverse dynamics of the system are solved using the least variance method.The obstacle avoidance planning is performed in the solved collisionfree feasible space using the stable dung beetle optimization(SDBO)algorithm,which ensures that the suspended object can move stably to the target point in the workspace.The optimal obstacle avoidance trajectory of the multi-robot suspension system can be accurately determined by using the collaborative optimization method for force and position to plan the towing robot and the cable.Finally,the correctness of the obstacle avoidance planning method is verified by simulations.By taking a special scenario,the remarkable findings reveal that the SDBO algorithm outperforms the dung beetle optimization algorithm by reducing the length of the planned trajectory of the suspended object by 14.51%and the height by 79.88%,and reducing the minimum fitness by 95.84%and the average fitness by 94.77%.The results can help the multi-robot suspension system to perform various towing tasks safely and stably,and extend the related planning and control theory.展开更多
This paper discusses the two-block large-scale nonconvex optimization problem with general linear constraints.Based on the ideas of splitting and sequential quadratic optimization(SQO),a new feasible descent method fo...This paper discusses the two-block large-scale nonconvex optimization problem with general linear constraints.Based on the ideas of splitting and sequential quadratic optimization(SQO),a new feasible descent method for the discussed problem is proposed.First,we consider the problem of quadratic optimal(QO)approximation associated with the current feasible iteration point,and we split the QO into two small-scale QOs which can be solved in parallel.Second,a feasible descent direction for the problem is obtained and a new SQO-type method is proposed,namely,splitting feasible SQO(SF-SQO)method.Moreover,under suitable conditions,we analyse the global convergence,strong convergence and rate of superlinear convergence of the SF-SQO method.Finally,preliminary numerical experiments regarding the economic dispatch of a power system are carried out,and these show that the SF-SQO method is promising.展开更多
For the purpose of improving the mechanical performance indices of uncertain structures with interval parameters and ensure their robustness when fluctuating under interval parameters, a constrained interval robust op...For the purpose of improving the mechanical performance indices of uncertain structures with interval parameters and ensure their robustness when fluctuating under interval parameters, a constrained interval robust optimization model is constructed with both the center and halfwidth of the most important mechanical performance index described as objective functions and the other requirements on the mechanical performance indices described as constraint functions. To locate the optimal solution of objective and feasibility robustness, a new concept of interval violation vector and its calculation formulae corresponding to different constraint functions are proposed. The math?ematical formulae for calculating the feasibility and objective robustness indices and the robustness?based preferential guidelines are proposed for directly ranking various design vectors, which is realized by an algorithm integrating Kriging and nested genetic algorithm. The validity of the proposed method and its superiority to present interval optimization approaches are demonstrated by a numerical example. The robust optimization of the upper beam in a high?speed press with interval material properties demonstrated the applicability and effectiveness of the proposed method in engineering.展开更多
In semiconductor manufacturing process, probe station that is testing equipment is important. Inspection step is for detecting defects on semiconductor before the packaging. Probe card is a part of probe station and c...In semiconductor manufacturing process, probe station that is testing equipment is important. Inspection step is for detecting defects on semiconductor before the packaging. Probe card is a part of probe station and contains probe tip that contacts to semiconductor. Through probe tip, it can inspect defects of semiconductor. In this paper, optimization method is used with response surface analysis to design MEMS type probe tip. And fabricating probe tip uses maskless lithography, electro-plating and lapping process.展开更多
The underground nuclear power plant(NPP)makes full use of land resources, reduces costs, makes better use of its passive safety, and avoids radioactivity release into the atmosphere in serious nuclear accidents.In thi...The underground nuclear power plant(NPP)makes full use of land resources, reduces costs, makes better use of its passive safety, and avoids radioactivity release into the atmosphere in serious nuclear accidents.In this paper, for obtaining comprehensive and integrated analyses on this new NPP design, we introduce four kinds of underground NPP designs, analyze the feasibility of each design from various aspects, and use the multiple criteria decision analysis method to choose the best option.展开更多
A lot of study has been made for the design and defining hot end initial parameters of steem turbine of large thermal power plant at home and abroad. But little study has been performed for the reasonable selection of...A lot of study has been made for the design and defining hot end initial parameters of steem turbine of large thermal power plant at home and abroad. But little study has been performed for the reasonable selection of some cold end parameters of steam turbine. The steam turbine cold end parameters defined in actual engineering project are somewhat unreasonable frequently. This paper describes some opinions for selecting some of the steam turbine cold end parameters, especially that of the turbine design back pressure and low pressure cylinder last stage blade length based on the regional features of meteorological conditions in China in association with the optimization of thermal power plant circulating water system.展开更多
A new reliability-based multidisciplinary design optimization （RBMDO） framework is proposed by combining the single-loop-based reliability analysis （SLBRA） method with multidisciplinary feasible （MDF） method. Th...A new reliability-based multidisciplinary design optimization （RBMDO） framework is proposed by combining the single-loop-based reliability analysis （SLBRA） method with multidisciplinary feasible （MDF） method. The Kriging approximate model with updating is introduced to reduce the computational cost of MDF caused by the complex structure. The computational efficiency is remarkably improved as the lack of iterative process during reliability analysis. Special attention is paid to a turbine blade design optimization by adopting the proposed method. Results show that the method is much more efficient than the commonly used double-loop based RBMDO method. It is feasible and efficient to apply the method to the engineering design.展开更多
With applying the information technology to the military field, the advantages and importance of the networked combat are more and more obvious. In order to make full use of limited battlefield resources and maximally...With applying the information technology to the military field, the advantages and importance of the networked combat are more and more obvious. In order to make full use of limited battlefield resources and maximally destroy enemy targets from arbitrary angle in a limited time, the research on firepower nodes dynamic deployment becomes a key problem of command and control. Considering a variety of tactical indexes and actual constraints in air defense, a mathematical model is formulated to minimize the enemy target penetration probability. Based on characteristics of the mathematical model and demands of the deployment problems, an assistance-based algorithm is put forward which combines the artificial potential field （APF） method with a memetic algorithm. The APF method is employed to solve the constraint handling problem and generate feasible solutions. The constrained optimization problem transforms into an optimization problem of APF parameters adjustment, and the dimension of the problem is reduced greatly. The dynamic deployment is accomplished by generation and refinement of feasible solutions. The simulation results show that the proposed algorithm is effective and feasible in dynamic situation.展开更多
The Taihang Mountains area is an area in North China where serious mudflow hazards take place frequently. The hazards often obstrust traffic and make it difficult to carry out conventional ground investigations of the...The Taihang Mountains area is an area in North China where serious mudflow hazards take place frequently. The hazards often obstrust traffic and make it difficult to carry out conventional ground investigations of the mudflow hazards. This paper introduces the feasibility study of mudflow hazards by using Landsat-5TM data. The study has achieved a great success through adopting both the faint spectral enhancement technique for mudflow fans (or other depositional areas) and comprehensive study of the environmental background of pregnant mudflows. Thus, remote sensing as a fast, convenient, low-cost and effective technical method can be used to recognise the situation of mudflow hazards so that effective rescue can be provided.展开更多
Field SZ36-1 is a water-flooded heavy oil reservoir with high porosity and unconsolidated sand. The recovery rate is low so that it becomes a challenge for production. Time-lapse seismic data is studied to improve the...Field SZ36-1 is a water-flooded heavy oil reservoir with high porosity and unconsolidated sand. The recovery rate is low so that it becomes a challenge for production. Time-lapse seismic data is studied to improve the oil recovery for this field, This feasibility study analyzes the possible time-lapse seismic attribute spatial distribution using dynamic data and the reservoir model to determine the optimum time to acquire a new seismic survey. Based on the study, it is found that the time-lapse seismic response for this unconsolidated sand has a strong signature due to solution gas when the reservoir pressure is below the bubble point. This indicates that acquiring a new survey after 10 years of production is appropriate for a time-lapse seismic application.展开更多
Cavitating jet is a promising drilling rate improvement technology in both the marine natural gas hydrate (NGH) fluidization exploitation method and the integrated radial jet drilling and completion method. In present...Cavitating jet is a promising drilling rate improvement technology in both the marine natural gas hydrate (NGH) fluidization exploitation method and the integrated radial jet drilling and completion method. In present study, we aim to improve the efficiency of jet erosion and extracting NGH. With a computational fluid dynamics (CFD) method, the pressure, velocity and cavitation field characteristics of organ-pipe cavitating jet (OPCJ) are analysed. The divergent angle, throat length, and divergent length of OPCJ nozzle are preferred to obtain stronger jet cavitation erosion effect. Laboratory experiments of gas hydrate-bearing sediments (GHBS) erosion by OPCJ and conical jet (CJ) are conducted to compare and validate the jet erosion performance. The impinging models of OPCJ and CJ are constructed to study the impact characteristics. Results show that the preferred values of divergent angle, throat length, and divergent length are 15°, 1d, and 3d, respectively, in present simulation conditions. For GHBS, the OPCJ possesses the advantages of high efficiency and low energy consumption. Moreover, the OPCJ has higher penetration efficiency, while showing equivalent penetration ability compared to CJ. During the impinging process, the OPCJ can induce stronger impact pressure and turbulence effect, and also shows stronger chambering effect and bottom cleaning ability compared to CJ. This study presents the erosion performance of OPCJ and CJ on GHBS, and provides preliminary insights on the potential field applications in NGH exploitation.展开更多
Objective: The purpose of this study was to test the feasibility of integrating acupuncture into the routine care of living liver and kidney donors during the process of donation and recovery.Methods: This is a pilot ...Objective: The purpose of this study was to test the feasibility of integrating acupuncture into the routine care of living liver and kidney donors during the process of donation and recovery.Methods: This is a pilot study on the feasibility of a brief acupuncture intervention for living liver and kidney donors. Participants received acupuncture immediately prior to organ donation surgery, every day as inpatients, while recovering from donation, and at a 2-week follow-up. Prior to surgery, questionnaires were completed on acupuncture outcome expectations and the State–Trait Anxiety Inventory. After participating, those who received acupuncture provided feedback. Following the active intervention, a retrospective chart review was conducted, using donors who did not receive acupuncture as a comparison cohort.Results: Forty donor candidates were approached and recruited, 32 consented and ultimately 25 donors participated in the acupuncture intervention(15 of kidney, 10 of liver), 68% female, and 88% Caucasian;only one had prior experience with acupuncture. Participants received an average of 4 sessions while inpatient(range 2–8). Those who expected acupuncture to be more helpful prior to the intervention reported lower inpatient pain scores(P = 0.04). Qualitative feedback from patients was predominantly positive,indicating acupuncture was helpful for relaxation and pain. However, a few patients reported feeling overburdened during postdonation recovery, and that the study was viewed as additional obligation.Conclusion: Preliminary findings suggest it is feasible to integrate acupuncture into inpatient recovery for living organ donation. Tailoring interventions to the specific needs of patients is important to address ongoing concerns. Larger studies are needed to further ascertain benefits of peri-operative acupuncture.展开更多
Extensive research work including multiple methodologies and numerous simulations have been completed in order to determine the economic effectiveness of employing CHP at commercial and residential sites. In contrast ...Extensive research work including multiple methodologies and numerous simulations have been completed in order to determine the economic effectiveness of employing CHP at commercial and residential sites. In contrast to the above, very few attempts have been made to develop methodologies to study the feasibility of CHP systems at industrial manufacturing facilities. As a result, practical opportunities for CHP at industrial sites are often not realized or even investigated. It follows that there is a need in the CHP related literature for an analysis that is explicit and yet general enough to determine the economic viability and potential for success of CHP systems at industrial manufacturing facilities. Therefore, the purpose of this paper is to clearly outline a methodology to determine the economic effectiveness of installation and operation of a CHP system at industrial facilities that have a need for space or process heating in the form of steam. The effect on the CHP system economic performance of several parameters, such as the project payback, internal rate of return, net present value, etc., are considered in the proposed methodology. The applicability and generality of the methodology is illustrated by examples including four different manufacturing facilities. The effects of the variability of factors such as annual facility operational hours during which both process heat and electricity are needed, facility average hourly thermal load, cost of utility supplied electricity, and CHP fuel type and associated fuel cost, on the outcome of the economic analysis are also examined.展开更多
Background： Breast cancer patients experience various side effects during cancer therapy, often resulting in reduced quality of life and poor adherence to treatment. A limited range of proven interventions has been d...Background： Breast cancer patients experience various side effects during cancer therapy, often resulting in reduced quality of life and poor adherence to treatment. A limited range of proven interventions has been developed to target such side effects. While Tai Chi offers benefits for the health and well-being of breast cancer survivors, the effectiveness of Tai Chi across the treatment continuum has not been evalu- ated. Improved patient education and support has been suggested as a priority for breast cancer care. This pilot study assesses the feasibility of a randomized controlled trial （RCT） to evaluate the effectiveness of ＂an integrative Tai Chi＂ （ANITA） program for breast cancer patients undergoing cancer therapy. Methods/design： This is a single-centre, two-arm feasibility RCT. Twenty-four patients with breast cancer who have undergone surgical treatment will be recruited from the Dunedin Hospital （New Zealand） over a 12-month period （from August 2017 to July 2018）. Subject to informed consent, patients will be ran- domized to receive standard cancer treatment alone or standard cancer treatment plus the ANITA pro- gram, consisting of peer support, health education, and Tai Chi Ruler exercise. The program runs alongside the patient＇s adjuvant cancer therapy, which may include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, antibody treatment, and/or antihormonal therapy. Analysis in this study will focus on process evaluation of participant recruitment, retention, treatment fidelity, acceptability of the program, and occurrence of adverse events. Clinical outcomes （i.e., fatigue, sleep quality, anxiety and depression and quality of life） will be assessed at baseline, and at 12 weeks and 24 weeks post-randomization. Discussion： Outcomes from this study will inform the feasibility and methodology for a future fully- powered RCT.展开更多
基金Supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(1 980 1 0 0 9) and by the Natural Sci-ence Foundation of Guangxi
文摘A new SQP type feasible method for inequality constrained optimization is presented,it is a combination of a master algorithm and an auxiliary algorithm which is taken only in finite iterations.The directions of the master algorithm are generated by only one quadratic programming, and its step\|size is always one, the directions of the auxiliary algorithm are new “second\|order” feasible descent. Under suitable assumptions,the algorithm is proved to possess global and strong convergence, superlinear and quadratic convergence.
文摘An efficient culture medium producing a bacterial elastase with high yields was developed further following preliminary studies by means of response surface method. Central composite design (CCD) and response surface method-ology were applied to optimize the medium constituents. A central composite design was used to explain the combined effect of three medium constituents, viz, glucose, K2HPO4, MgSO47H2O. The strain produced more elastase in the completely optimized medium, as compared with the partially optimized medium. The fitted model of the second model, as per RSM, showed that glucose was 7.4 g/100 ml, casein 1.13 g/100 ml, corn steep flour 0.616 g/100 ml, K2HPO4 0.206 g/100 ml and MgSO47H2O 0.034 g/100 ml. The fermentation kinetics of these two culture media in the flask experiments were analyzed. It was found that the highest elastase productivity occurred at 54 hours. Higher glucose concentration had inhibitory effect on elastase production. At the same time, we observed that the glucose consumption rate was slow in the completely optimized medium, which can explain the lag period of the highest elastase production. Some metal ions and surfactant additives also affected elastase production and cell growth.
文摘In this paper, we propose a homotopy continuous method (HCM) for solving a weak efficient solution of multiobjective optimization problem (MOP) with feasible set unbounded condition, which is arising in Economical Distributions, Engineering Decisions, Resource Allocations and other field of mathematical economics and engineering problems. Under the suitable assumption, it is proved to globally converge to a weak efficient solution of (MOP), if its x-branch has no weak infinite solution.
基金The authors thank the Higher Education Commission,Pakistan,for supporting this research under the project NRPU-8925(M.A.J.and H.U.K.),https://www.hec.gowpk/。
文摘The particle swarm optimization(PSO)algorithm is an established nature-inspired population-based meta-heuristic that replicates the synchronizing movements of birds and sh.PSO is essentially an unconstrained algorithm and requires constraint handling techniques(CHTs)to solve constrained optimization problems(COPs).For this purpose,we integrate two CHTs,the superiority of feasibility(SF)and the violation constraint-handling(VCH),with a PSO.These CHTs distinguish feasible solutions from infeasible ones.Moreover,in SF,the selection of infeasible solutions is based on their degree of constraint violations,whereas in VCH,the number of constraint violations by an infeasible solution is of more importance.Therefore,a PSO is adapted for constrained optimization,yielding two constrained variants,denoted SF-PSO and VCH-PSO.Both SF-PSO and VCH-PSO are evaluated with respect to ve engineering problems:the Himmelblau’s nonlinear optimization,the welded beam design,the spring design,the pressure vessel design,and the three-bar truss design.The simulation results show that both algorithms are consistent in terms of their solutions to these problems,including their different available versions.Comparison of the SF-PSO and the VCHPSO with other existing algorithms on the tested problems shows that the proposed algorithms have lower computational cost in terms of the number of function evaluations used.We also report our disagreement with some unjust comparisons made by other researchers regarding the tested problems and their different variants.
文摘BACKGROUND Clinical decision-making in urinary tract infections depends heavily on accurately distinguishing between pathogenic and non-pathogenic organisms.The interpretation of urine culture results is influenced by proper sample collection,the patient's clinical context,and organism-specific characteristics.However,there is currently no definitive method to determine whether a urinary isolate is truly pathogenic.This distinction is critical,as treatment decisions hinge on it.This pioneering study systematically applies a stepwise model to differentiate pathogenic from non-pathogenic urinary isolates—an approach not previously described.AIM To determine whether a urinary isolate is pathogenic(commensal,colonizer,or direct pathogen)or non-pathogenic(commensal,colonizer,or contaminant)using a structured,stepwise approach.METHODS This prospective,longitudinal,exploratory study was conducted over 24 months,starting in January 2022,at All India Institute of Medical Sciences Rishikesh,following approval from the Institutional Ethics Committee.A stepwise model developed by the investigators was applied to assess the nature of the isolates.Data recorded using REDCap,and analysis was performed using SPSS Version 25.RESULTS A total of 275 consecutive patients aged over 18 years with positive urine cultures—initially treated with antibiotics based on microbiological and clinical assessment—were included.The stepwise model classified 90.54% of cases as pathogenic(commensals:61.81%,colonizers:14.18%,and direct pathogens:14.54%)and 9.45% as non-pathogenic.The model showed that there could be a significant reduction in average hospital stay by over 13 days,along with saving approximately Rs.981 per patient in antibiotic costs in non-pathogenic cohort.CONCLUSION This novel model identified that approximately one in ten urinary isolates,initially considered pathogenic and treated with antibiotics,were in fact non-pathogenic.The model is safe,feasible,and potentially valuable in resource-limited settings,warranting broader validation and implementation.
文摘Sites and landscapes of international geological significance are managed with a comprehensive approach of conservation,education,and sustainable development in UNESCO Global Geoparks,which comprise a single,cohesive geographic area.A growing number of people are adopting the bottom-up strategy,which involves local communities and combines sustainable development with conservation.The viability of creating a UNESCO-recognized geopark in Kutch is assessed in this study.This study examines the key geoheritage features of the Kutch region,explores the socio-economic prospects of a geopark through geotourism and community development,and evaluates its conformity with UNESCO’s Global Geopark criteria on conservation,education,and sustainability.The study also evaluates the overall feasibility of the project,its economic,social,and environmental implications,and the adequacy of the requisite infrastructure..Its geological,cultural,and historical significance,as well as socioeconomic and environmental factors,are the parameters considered for investigation.Despite multiple applications to UNESCO,the Gujarat region of Kutch,which is rich in geological,cultural,and historical elements,is not recognised as a World Heritage Site.In actuality,there are 195 geoparks in 48 nations worldwide as of 2023,however India does not have one.The findings of the study provide critical insights that can direct initiatives to establish India’s first geopark and promote regional sustainability.
基金supported by the Excellent Graduate Student“Innovation Star”project of Education Department of Gansu Province(Grant No.2025CXZX-675)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Grant No.51965032)+3 种基金the National Natural Science Foundation of Gansu Province of China(Grant No.22JR5RA319)the Excellent Doctoral Student Foundation of Gansu Province of China(Grant No.23JRRA842)the Open Project of State Key Laboratory of Rail Transit Vehicle System,Southwest Jiaotong University(Grant No.RVL2411)the Key Research and Development Project of Lanzhou Jiaotong University(Grant No.LZJTU-ZDYF2302).
文摘To avoid collisions between a suspended object,cables,towing robots,and obstacles in the environment in a multi-robot suspension system,obstacle avoidance planning was studied based on a collaborative optimization method for force and position.Based on the analysis of the kinematics and dynamics of the system,the inverse kinematics and inverse dynamics of the system are solved using the least variance method.The obstacle avoidance planning is performed in the solved collisionfree feasible space using the stable dung beetle optimization(SDBO)algorithm,which ensures that the suspended object can move stably to the target point in the workspace.The optimal obstacle avoidance trajectory of the multi-robot suspension system can be accurately determined by using the collaborative optimization method for force and position to plan the towing robot and the cable.Finally,the correctness of the obstacle avoidance planning method is verified by simulations.By taking a special scenario,the remarkable findings reveal that the SDBO algorithm outperforms the dung beetle optimization algorithm by reducing the length of the planned trajectory of the suspended object by 14.51%and the height by 79.88%,and reducing the minimum fitness by 95.84%and the average fitness by 94.77%.The results can help the multi-robot suspension system to perform various towing tasks safely and stably,and extend the related planning and control theory.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(12171106)the Natural Science Foundation of Guangxi Province(2020GXNSFDA238017 and 2018GXNSFFA281007)the Shanghai Sailing Program(21YF1430300)。
文摘This paper discusses the two-block large-scale nonconvex optimization problem with general linear constraints.Based on the ideas of splitting and sequential quadratic optimization(SQO),a new feasible descent method for the discussed problem is proposed.First,we consider the problem of quadratic optimal(QO)approximation associated with the current feasible iteration point,and we split the QO into two small-scale QOs which can be solved in parallel.Second,a feasible descent direction for the problem is obtained and a new SQO-type method is proposed,namely,splitting feasible SQO(SF-SQO)method.Moreover,under suitable conditions,we analyse the global convergence,strong convergence and rate of superlinear convergence of the SF-SQO method.Finally,preliminary numerical experiments regarding the economic dispatch of a power system are carried out,and these show that the SF-SQO method is promising.
基金Supported by National Natural Science Foundation of China(Grant Nos.51775491,51475417,U1608256,51405433)
文摘For the purpose of improving the mechanical performance indices of uncertain structures with interval parameters and ensure their robustness when fluctuating under interval parameters, a constrained interval robust optimization model is constructed with both the center and halfwidth of the most important mechanical performance index described as objective functions and the other requirements on the mechanical performance indices described as constraint functions. To locate the optimal solution of objective and feasibility robustness, a new concept of interval violation vector and its calculation formulae corresponding to different constraint functions are proposed. The math?ematical formulae for calculating the feasibility and objective robustness indices and the robustness?based preferential guidelines are proposed for directly ranking various design vectors, which is realized by an algorithm integrating Kriging and nested genetic algorithm. The validity of the proposed method and its superiority to present interval optimization approaches are demonstrated by a numerical example. The robust optimization of the upper beam in a high?speed press with interval material properties demonstrated the applicability and effectiveness of the proposed method in engineering.
文摘In semiconductor manufacturing process, probe station that is testing equipment is important. Inspection step is for detecting defects on semiconductor before the packaging. Probe card is a part of probe station and contains probe tip that contacts to semiconductor. Through probe tip, it can inspect defects of semiconductor. In this paper, optimization method is used with response surface analysis to design MEMS type probe tip. And fabricating probe tip uses maskless lithography, electro-plating and lapping process.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(Nos.91326108 and 51206042)
文摘The underground nuclear power plant(NPP)makes full use of land resources, reduces costs, makes better use of its passive safety, and avoids radioactivity release into the atmosphere in serious nuclear accidents.In this paper, for obtaining comprehensive and integrated analyses on this new NPP design, we introduce four kinds of underground NPP designs, analyze the feasibility of each design from various aspects, and use the multiple criteria decision analysis method to choose the best option.
文摘A lot of study has been made for the design and defining hot end initial parameters of steem turbine of large thermal power plant at home and abroad. But little study has been performed for the reasonable selection of some cold end parameters of steam turbine. The steam turbine cold end parameters defined in actual engineering project are somewhat unreasonable frequently. This paper describes some opinions for selecting some of the steam turbine cold end parameters, especially that of the turbine design back pressure and low pressure cylinder last stage blade length based on the regional features of meteorological conditions in China in association with the optimization of thermal power plant circulating water system.
基金Supported by the National High Technology Research and Development Program of China("863" Program) (2009AA04Z418, 2007AA04Z404)the National "111" Project(B07050)~~
文摘A new reliability-based multidisciplinary design optimization （RBMDO） framework is proposed by combining the single-loop-based reliability analysis （SLBRA） method with multidisciplinary feasible （MDF） method. The Kriging approximate model with updating is introduced to reduce the computational cost of MDF caused by the complex structure. The computational efficiency is remarkably improved as the lack of iterative process during reliability analysis. Special attention is paid to a turbine blade design optimization by adopting the proposed method. Results show that the method is much more efficient than the commonly used double-loop based RBMDO method. It is feasible and efficient to apply the method to the engineering design.
基金supported by the National Outstanding Youth Science Foundation (60925011)the National Natural Science Foundation of China (61203181)
文摘With applying the information technology to the military field, the advantages and importance of the networked combat are more and more obvious. In order to make full use of limited battlefield resources and maximally destroy enemy targets from arbitrary angle in a limited time, the research on firepower nodes dynamic deployment becomes a key problem of command and control. Considering a variety of tactical indexes and actual constraints in air defense, a mathematical model is formulated to minimize the enemy target penetration probability. Based on characteristics of the mathematical model and demands of the deployment problems, an assistance-based algorithm is put forward which combines the artificial potential field （APF） method with a memetic algorithm. The APF method is employed to solve the constraint handling problem and generate feasible solutions. The constrained optimization problem transforms into an optimization problem of APF parameters adjustment, and the dimension of the problem is reduced greatly. The dynamic deployment is accomplished by generation and refinement of feasible solutions. The simulation results show that the proposed algorithm is effective and feasible in dynamic situation.
文摘The Taihang Mountains area is an area in North China where serious mudflow hazards take place frequently. The hazards often obstrust traffic and make it difficult to carry out conventional ground investigations of the mudflow hazards. This paper introduces the feasibility study of mudflow hazards by using Landsat-5TM data. The study has achieved a great success through adopting both the faint spectral enhancement technique for mudflow fans (or other depositional areas) and comprehensive study of the environmental background of pregnant mudflows. Thus, remote sensing as a fast, convenient, low-cost and effective technical method can be used to recognise the situation of mudflow hazards so that effective rescue can be provided.
文摘Field SZ36-1 is a water-flooded heavy oil reservoir with high porosity and unconsolidated sand. The recovery rate is low so that it becomes a challenge for production. Time-lapse seismic data is studied to improve the oil recovery for this field, This feasibility study analyzes the possible time-lapse seismic attribute spatial distribution using dynamic data and the reservoir model to determine the optimum time to acquire a new seismic survey. Based on the study, it is found that the time-lapse seismic response for this unconsolidated sand has a strong signature due to solution gas when the reservoir pressure is below the bubble point. This indicates that acquiring a new survey after 10 years of production is appropriate for a time-lapse seismic application.
基金financially supported by National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.52174009 and No.51827804)Marine Economy Development Foundation of Guangdong Province(GDNRC[2022]44)“Technical Support for Stimulation and Testing of Gas Hydrate Reservoirs”.
文摘Cavitating jet is a promising drilling rate improvement technology in both the marine natural gas hydrate (NGH) fluidization exploitation method and the integrated radial jet drilling and completion method. In present study, we aim to improve the efficiency of jet erosion and extracting NGH. With a computational fluid dynamics (CFD) method, the pressure, velocity and cavitation field characteristics of organ-pipe cavitating jet (OPCJ) are analysed. The divergent angle, throat length, and divergent length of OPCJ nozzle are preferred to obtain stronger jet cavitation erosion effect. Laboratory experiments of gas hydrate-bearing sediments (GHBS) erosion by OPCJ and conical jet (CJ) are conducted to compare and validate the jet erosion performance. The impinging models of OPCJ and CJ are constructed to study the impact characteristics. Results show that the preferred values of divergent angle, throat length, and divergent length are 15°, 1d, and 3d, respectively, in present simulation conditions. For GHBS, the OPCJ possesses the advantages of high efficiency and low energy consumption. Moreover, the OPCJ has higher penetration efficiency, while showing equivalent penetration ability compared to CJ. During the impinging process, the OPCJ can induce stronger impact pressure and turbulence effect, and also shows stronger chambering effect and bottom cleaning ability compared to CJ. This study presents the erosion performance of OPCJ and CJ on GHBS, and provides preliminary insights on the potential field applications in NGH exploitation.
基金study was funded in part by the Benson Ford Endowment
文摘Objective: The purpose of this study was to test the feasibility of integrating acupuncture into the routine care of living liver and kidney donors during the process of donation and recovery.Methods: This is a pilot study on the feasibility of a brief acupuncture intervention for living liver and kidney donors. Participants received acupuncture immediately prior to organ donation surgery, every day as inpatients, while recovering from donation, and at a 2-week follow-up. Prior to surgery, questionnaires were completed on acupuncture outcome expectations and the State–Trait Anxiety Inventory. After participating, those who received acupuncture provided feedback. Following the active intervention, a retrospective chart review was conducted, using donors who did not receive acupuncture as a comparison cohort.Results: Forty donor candidates were approached and recruited, 32 consented and ultimately 25 donors participated in the acupuncture intervention(15 of kidney, 10 of liver), 68% female, and 88% Caucasian;only one had prior experience with acupuncture. Participants received an average of 4 sessions while inpatient(range 2–8). Those who expected acupuncture to be more helpful prior to the intervention reported lower inpatient pain scores(P = 0.04). Qualitative feedback from patients was predominantly positive,indicating acupuncture was helpful for relaxation and pain. However, a few patients reported feeling overburdened during postdonation recovery, and that the study was viewed as additional obligation.Conclusion: Preliminary findings suggest it is feasible to integrate acupuncture into inpatient recovery for living organ donation. Tailoring interventions to the specific needs of patients is important to address ongoing concerns. Larger studies are needed to further ascertain benefits of peri-operative acupuncture.
文摘Extensive research work including multiple methodologies and numerous simulations have been completed in order to determine the economic effectiveness of employing CHP at commercial and residential sites. In contrast to the above, very few attempts have been made to develop methodologies to study the feasibility of CHP systems at industrial manufacturing facilities. As a result, practical opportunities for CHP at industrial sites are often not realized or even investigated. It follows that there is a need in the CHP related literature for an analysis that is explicit and yet general enough to determine the economic viability and potential for success of CHP systems at industrial manufacturing facilities. Therefore, the purpose of this paper is to clearly outline a methodology to determine the economic effectiveness of installation and operation of a CHP system at industrial facilities that have a need for space or process heating in the form of steam. The effect on the CHP system economic performance of several parameters, such as the project payback, internal rate of return, net present value, etc., are considered in the proposed methodology. The applicability and generality of the methodology is illustrated by examples including four different manufacturing facilities. The effects of the variability of factors such as annual facility operational hours during which both process heat and electricity are needed, facility average hourly thermal load, cost of utility supplied electricity, and CHP fuel type and associated fuel cost, on the outcome of the economic analysis are also examined.
基金funded by the Breast Cancer Foundation New Zealandsupport of which is gratefully acknowledged+1 种基金This funding source has no role in this study other than providing funding supportLL is funded as the Breast Cancer Foundation New Zealand Belinda Scott Clinical Fellowship 2017
文摘Background： Breast cancer patients experience various side effects during cancer therapy, often resulting in reduced quality of life and poor adherence to treatment. A limited range of proven interventions has been developed to target such side effects. While Tai Chi offers benefits for the health and well-being of breast cancer survivors, the effectiveness of Tai Chi across the treatment continuum has not been evalu- ated. Improved patient education and support has been suggested as a priority for breast cancer care. This pilot study assesses the feasibility of a randomized controlled trial （RCT） to evaluate the effectiveness of ＂an integrative Tai Chi＂ （ANITA） program for breast cancer patients undergoing cancer therapy. Methods/design： This is a single-centre, two-arm feasibility RCT. Twenty-four patients with breast cancer who have undergone surgical treatment will be recruited from the Dunedin Hospital （New Zealand） over a 12-month period （from August 2017 to July 2018）. Subject to informed consent, patients will be ran- domized to receive standard cancer treatment alone or standard cancer treatment plus the ANITA pro- gram, consisting of peer support, health education, and Tai Chi Ruler exercise. The program runs alongside the patient＇s adjuvant cancer therapy, which may include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, antibody treatment, and/or antihormonal therapy. Analysis in this study will focus on process evaluation of participant recruitment, retention, treatment fidelity, acceptability of the program, and occurrence of adverse events. Clinical outcomes （i.e., fatigue, sleep quality, anxiety and depression and quality of life） will be assessed at baseline, and at 12 weeks and 24 weeks post-randomization. Discussion： Outcomes from this study will inform the feasibility and methodology for a future fully- powered RCT.
