Artificial Intelligence Clone Generated Content toward Robot Creativity and Machine Mindfulness

Mobile Networks and Applications - In the project Syntropic Counterpoints, we are using discussions between Artificial Intelligence clones to generate creative content. Nevertheless, our focus is...     

An efficient memetic algorithm for the uncapacitated single allocation hub location problem

In this paper, we present a memetic algorithm (MA) for solving the uncapacitated single allocation hub location problem (USAHLP). Two efficient local search heuristics are designed and implemented in the frame of an evolutionary algorithm in order to improve both the location and allocation part of the problem. Computational experiments, conducted on standard CAB/AP hub data sets (Beasley in J Global Optim 8:429–433, 1996) and modified AP data set with reduced fixed costs (Silva and Cunha in Computer Oper Res 36:3152–3165, 2009), show that the MA approach is superior over existing heuristic approaches for the USAHLP. For several large-scale AP instances up to 200 nodes, the MA improved the best-known solutions from the literature until now. Numerical results on instances with 300 and 400 nodes introduced in Silva and Cunha (Computer Oper Res 36:3152–3165, 2009) show significant improvements in the sense of both solution quality and CPU time. The robustness of the MA was additionally tested on a challenging set of newly generated large-scale instances with 520–900 nodes. To the best of our knowledge, these are the largest USAHLP problem dimensions solved in the literature until now. In addition, in this paper, we report for the first time optimal solutions for 30 AP and modified AP instances.     

A new approach for kinetic modeling and optimization of rubber molding

Although extensive research has been carried out on the understanding of the complex vulcanization process, the influence of reversion through exposure time and temperature on the vulcanization degree remains unclear. Therefore, the main aim of this study was a novel optimization approach that can help the industrial practitioners to select the optimal operating parameters, exposure time, and molding temperature, to achieve desired vulcanization degree of selected product. Spheres of four different diameters (2.5, 5, 10, and 20 cm) were selected as test geometry for simulation and optimization of rubber molding. Obtained vulcanization rheometer data for commercially available rubber blend (NR/SBR) were fitted by a new modeling approach, dividing vulcanization curve into two fitting sets: curing and reversion. The heat transfer equations for chosen geometry were coupled with proposed kinetic model. A new temperature-dependent kinetic parameter x, as the maximal reversion degree, was introduced, enabling determination of the lowest operating molding temperature (T_min = 132.36 °C), preventing high reversion and overheating of the rubber product. The final optimization goal was assessment of the optimal temperature and vulcanization time dependence on the rubber products dimensions. Proposed models have precise prediction with R² values greater than 0.8328 and MAPE less than 2.3099%.     

Effect of Ester to Amide or N‐Methylamide Substitution on Bacterial Membrane Depolarization and Antibacterial Activity of Novel Cyclic Lipopeptides

Cyclic lipopeptides derived from the fusaricidin/LI‐F family of naturally occurring antibiotics represent particularly attractive candidates for the development of new antibacterial agents. In comparison with natural products, these derivatives may offer better stability under physiologically relevant conditions and lower nonspecific toxicity, while preserving their antibacterial activity. In this study we assessed the ability of cyclic lipodepsipeptide 1 and its analogues—amide 2 , N‐methylamide 3 , and linear peptide 4 —to interact with the cytoplasmic membranes of selected Gram‐positive bacteria. We also investigated their bacteriostatic/bactericidal modes of action and in vivo potency by using a Galleria mellonella model of MRSA infection. Cyclic lipopeptides 1 and 2 depolarize the cytoplasmic membranes of Gram‐positive bacteria in a concentration‐dependent manner. The degree of membrane depolarization was influenced by the structural and physical properties of 1 and 2 , with the more flexible and hydrophobic peptide 1 being most efficient. However, membrane depolarization does not correlate with bacterial cell lethality, suggesting that membrane‐targeting activity is not the main mode of action for this class of antibacterial peptides. Conversely, substitution of the depsipeptide bond in 1 with an N‐methylamide bond in 3 , or its hydrolysis to peptide 4 , lead to a complete loss of antibacterial activity and indicate that the conformation of cyclic lipopeptides plays a role in their antibacterial activities. Cyclic lipopeptides 1 and 2 are also capable of improving the survival of G. mellonella larvae infected with MRSA at varying efficiencies, reflecting their in vitro activities. Gaining more insight into the structure–activity relationship and mode of action of these cyclic lipopeptides may enable the development of new antibiotics of this class with improved antibacterial activity.     

Temperature‐frequency characteristics simulation of piezoelectric resonators and their equivalent circuits based on three‐dimensional finite element modelling

The electromechanical resonators made of piezoelectric crystals such as a quartz crystal are widely used for electronic devices. Their frequency–temperature characteristics are of primary importance for their applications to the frequency control devices. The present paper demonstrates numerical simulation for several types of resonators using 3‐D Finite Element Modelling. The results are compared with the theoretical values whenever they are available. As they are electronic devices, the equivalent circuit representation is often favourable for describing the admittance at the electrical terminals which enables the circuit analysis including the effect of the temperature change by using commercially available circuit simulators. Copyright © 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.     

Human respiration rate estimation using ultra-wideband distributed cognitive radar system

It has been shown that remote monitoring of pulmonary activity can be achieved using ultra-wideband (UWB) systems,which shows promise in home healthcare, rescue, and security applications. In this paper, we first present a multi-ray propagation model for UWB signal, which is traveling through the human thorax and is reflected on the air/dry-skin/fat/muscle interfaces. A geometry-based statistical channel model is then developed for simulating the reception of UWB signals in the indoor propagation environment. This model enables replication of time-varying multipath profiles due to the displacement of a human chest. Subsequently,a UWB distributed cognitive radar system (UWB-DCRS) is developed for the robust detection of chest cavity motion and the accurate estimation of respiration rate. The analytical framework can serve as a basis in the planning and evaluation of future measurement programs. We also provide a case study on how the antenna beamwidth affects the estimation of respiration rate based on the proposed propagation models and system architecture.     

Experimental validation of hybrid micro-macro optical method for distortion removal in multi-chip global free-space optical-interconnection systems

Experimental validation of a distortion removal technique for multi-chip free-space optical shuffle interconnections is presented. The free-space fabric links dense two-dimensional arrays of vertical cavity surface emitting laser(s) (VCSEL)(s) and detectors and must achieve full field registration on the order of 10 microns across the entire array. The new hybrid micro-macro optical concept realizes the required high-registration accuracy by simultaneously eliminating distortion in each of the interleaved off-axis imaging systems that comprise the complete fabric. This is achieved by exploiting the typically low numerical aperture of VCSELs. Individually tailored beam-deflecting micro-optical elements were used to create symmetry about a central aperture for VCSEL beams in the optical system. Experiments were developed to quantify the registration accuracy, the VCSEL images, and the associated spot sizes. The experimental results show that beam steering can be implemented to remove distortion in off-axis free-space optical-interconnection systems.     

An Integrated Approach to Mandarin Processing: Food Safety and Nutritional Quality,Consumer Preference,and Nutrient Bioaccessibility

Mandarins are a member of the Citrus genus and are the focus of growing commercial interest, with satsuma mandarins (Citrus unshiu) and the common mandarin (Citrus reticulata Blanco) being the most important mandarin varieties. The possible health benefits and functional properties of those fruits are often associated with the antioxidative function of vitamin C, carotenoids, and phenolic compounds. While most mandarins are consumed fresh, many are processed into juices (mostly cloudy), usually via thermal processing which can lead to the creation of off‐flavors and may diminish nutritional quality. The aim of this review is to summarize the most significant and recent information on the safety, sensorial properties, and nutritional benefits of mandarins and their processing into juice. The article also discusses recent information regarding the bioaccessibility of valuable, mandarin specific, compounds.