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Slime mold and four other nature-inspired optimization algorithms in analyzing the concrete compressive strength

  • Yinghao Zhao;Hossein Moayedi;Loke Kok Foong;Quynh T. Thi
    • Smart Structures and Systems
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    • v.33 no.1
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    • pp.65-91
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    • 2024
  • The use of five optimization techniques for the prediction of a strength-based concrete mixture's best-fit model is examined in this work. Five optimization techniques are utilized for this purpose: Slime Mold Algorithm (SMA), Black Hole Algorithm (BHA), Multi-Verse Optimizer (MVO), Vortex Search (VS), and Whale Optimization Algorithm (WOA). MATLAB employs a hybrid learning strategy to train an artificial neural network that combines least square estimation with backpropagation. Thus, 72 samples are utilized as training datasets and 31 as testing datasets, totaling 103. The multi-layer perceptron (MLP) is used to analyze all data, and results are verified by comparison. For training datasets in the best-fit models of SMA-MLP, BHA-MLP, MVO-MLP, VS-MLP, and WOA-MLP, the statistical indices of coefficient of determination (R2) in training phase are 0.9603, 0.9679, 0.9827, 0.9841 and 0.9770, and in testing phase are 0.9567, 0.9552, 0.9594, 0.9888 and 0.9695 respectively. In addition, the best-fit structures for training for SMA, BHA, MVO, VS, and WOA (all combined with multilayer perceptron, MLP) are achieved when the term population size was modified to 450, 500, 250, 150, and 500, respectively. Among all the suggested options, VS could offer a stronger prediction network for training MLP.

A Fully Digital Auricular Splint Workflow for Post-Keloid Excision

  • Rahmat Maria;Yee Onn Kok;Khim Hean Teoh
    • Archives of Plastic Surgery
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    • v.50 no.6
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    • pp.563-567
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    • 2023
  • Ear keloids are challenging lesions to treat due to high recurrence rates postexcision. Conservative compression techniques as adjunct treatment have been reported to be effective. An innovative technique of using computer-aided design/computed-aided manufacturing to print a customized auricular splint improves efficiency and comfort level for patients compared with conventional methods. The ear is scanned using an intraoral scanning 2 weeks postsurgery. A two-piece auricular splint is designed on the digital model, incorporating perforated projections for three nylon screws for retention of the splint. The splint is printed with clear acrylic material, postprocessed, and finished. The patient is taught to assemble the components of the splint and instructed to wear for at least 8 hours daily. The surgery site reviewed for any ulceration, pain, or recurrence of keloid for 6 months. During the 6-month review, the excision scar remained flat and pink. The patient also reports unrestricted daily activities. The digital workflow increases comfort for the patient and reduces the number of hours required to produce a customized auricular splint compared with conventional methods. A fully digital workflow for a printed auricular splint should be considered for adjunctive treatment to excision of ear keloids.

Neutronic optimization of thorium-based fuel configurations for minimizing slightly used nuclear fuel and radiotoxicity in small modular reactors

  • Nur Anis Zulaikha Kamarudin;Aznan Fazli Ismail;Mohamad Hairie Rabir;Khoo Kok Siong
    • Nuclear Engineering and Technology
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    • v.56 no.7
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    • pp.2641-2649
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    • 2024
  • Effective management of slightly used nuclear fuel (SUNF) is crucial for both technical and public acceptance reasons. SUNF management, radiotoxicity risk, and associated financial investment and technological capabilities are major concerns in nuclear power production. Reducing the volume of SUNF can simplify its management, and one possible solution is utilizing small modular reactors (SMR) and advanced fuel designs like those with thorium. This research focuses on studying the neutronic performance and radionuclide inventory of three different thorium fuel configurations. The mass of fissile material in thorium-based fuel significantly impacts Kinf, burn-up, and neutron energy spectrum. Compared to uranium, thorium as a fuel produces far fewer transuranic elements and less long-lived fission products (LLFPs) at the end of the core cycle (EOC). However, certain fission product elements produced from thorium-based fuel exhibit higher radioactivity at the beginning of the core cycle (BOC). Physical separation of thorium and uranium in the fuel block, like seed-and-blanket units (SBU) and duplex fuel designs, generate less radioactive waste with lower radioactivity and longer cycle lengths than homogeneous or mixed thorium-uranium fuel. Furthermore, the SBU and duplex feel designs exhibit comparable neutron spectra, leading to negligible differences in SUNF production between the two.

Knowledge Sharing in the New World of Work : Effects of the New Way of Working

  • de Kok, Arjan;Esten, Roel;Helms, Remko W.
    • Journal of Information Technology Services
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    • v.14 no.2
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    • pp.315-335
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    • 2015
  • The New Way of Working (NWOW) is changing the world in which we work today. The principles of NWOW are based on freedom of time and place to work, and steering on output (results) instead of input (presence). As NWOW is a relatively new phenomenon, research on the effect of NWOW on knowledge sharing in organizations is scarce. In this research two multiple-case studies were performed to investigate the effect of the New Way of Working on knowledge. In the first study (A) different knowledge sharing scenarios were used at organizations that were in the process of implementing NWOW. This provided the opportunity to compare the sharing of knowledge between 'NWOW workers' and employees that still worked in the traditional way (non-NWOW workers). In total 216 scenario results were evaluated to determine differences in channel choice between the traditional and new work environment. For the second study (B) a Knowledge Sharing Framework was developed, based on the theories of Nonaka and Alavi & Leidner. This framework was used to determine the type of knowledge shared, e.g. tacit or explicit knowledge, in 84 situations. Additionally, to measure the level of NWOW adoption, a NWOW Analysis Monitor was used. The results show that NWOW workers use more different communication channels than traditional workers. When knowledge workers become more mobile, they will exchange knowledge less explicit (codified) and more tacit (personalized), use less face-to-face communication, but more video calls and e-mail. The adoption of the principles of NWOW seems to have a balancing effect on the knowledge that is shared in a tacit and explicit way, which in the view of Scheepers et al. is an effective knowledge sharing strategy. The research results show organizations need to realize that the New World of Working is affecting the way knowledge is shared. Missing out on this development may result in the loss of important knowledge and impact the operation of organizations.

Comparison of Scattering Characteristics between Cylindrical Infinite and Finite Periodic Structure (원통형 무한 배열 구조와 원통형 유한 배열 구조의 전파 특성 비교)

  • Jeong, Yi-Ru;Hong, Ic-Pyo;Lee, Kyung-Won;Kok, Chan-Ho;Kim, Dae-Whan;Yook, Jong-Gwan
    • The Journal of Korean Institute of Electromagnetic Engineering and Science
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    • v.26 no.2
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    • pp.196-203
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    • 2015
  • In order to apply cylindrical periodic array to phased array antenna or frequency selective surface, efficient electromagnetic analysis is required. Finite periodic array is applied in real situation. But, generally, assumed that periodic structure is arranged infinitely, approximate electromagnetic characteristics can be obtained efficiently. But, difference of characteristics between real structure and approximate structure occurs because finite periodic array is approximated to infinite periodic array. Therefore, comparison and analysis of cylindrical infinite array and finite array are required. In this paper, cylindrical infinite periodic array are analyzed using cylindrical Floquet harmonics. Also, cylindrical finite periodic array is analyzed using method of moments (MoM) with thin wire approximation because periodic structures which are composed of strip with narrow width are analyzed. Transmission characteristics and surface currents of infinite and finite periodic structures are compared.

Anthocyanins from Clitoria ternatea Attenuate Food-Borne Penicillium expansum and its Potential Application as Food Biopreservative

  • Leong, Chean-Ring;Azizi, Muhammad Afif Kamarul;Taher, Md Abu;Wahidin, Suzana;Lee, Kok-Chang;Tan, Wen-Nee;Tong, Woei-Yenn
    • Natural Product Sciences
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    • v.23 no.2
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    • pp.125-131
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    • 2017
  • Clitoria ternatea or Commonly known blue pea, is a perennial climber crop native to Asian countries. The current study was aimed to evaluate the antimicrobial activity C. ternatea extract on food borne microorganisms and its antifungal effect on Penicillium expansum. The extract showed significant antimicrobial activity against 3 Gram positive bacteria, 2 Gram negative bacteria and 1 filamentous fungus on disc diffusion assay. The extract also showed good biocidal effect on all Gram positive bacteria tested and P. expansum. However, the kill curve analysis revealed that the fungicidal activity of the extract against P. expansum conidia was depend on the concentration of the extract and the time of exposure of the conidia to the extract. The scanning electron micrograph of the extract treated P. expansum culture showed alterations in the morphology of fungal hyphae. The germination of P. expansum conidia was completely inhibited and conidial development was totally suppressed by the extract, suggesting the possible mode of action of anthocyanin. Besides, the extract also exhibited 5.0-log suppression of microbial growth relative to control in the rice model. The results indicate the potential use of the C. ternatea anthocyanin as food biopreservative.

Effect of Stroke Health Education on Knowledge of Stroke for Rural Elders (일 지역 농촌 노인의 뇌졸중 교육이 뇌졸중 지식정도에 미치는 효과)

  • Kim, Eun-Mi;Hong, Ji-Yeon
    • Journal of Korean Academy of Rural Health Nursing
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    • v.4 no.2
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    • pp.103-109
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    • 2009
  • Purpose: This study was conducted to test the effect of a 5 weeks health education program on stroke for rural elderly people. Methods: A total of 55 rural elders in Kok Sung County were participated in the health education on stroke program. Descriptive statistics, and paired t-test were used for statistical analysis with SPSS 12.0. Results: The results are summarized as follows : Mean age was 67.3 years and 88.2% of participants were female. The mean pre-test scores for knowledge of stroke were 0.35 and post-test, 0.85 (p< .001). Percentage of accurate response rates of warning signs of stroke were sudden dizziness pre-test 45.5% post-test 80.0%, sudden trouble speaking or understanding, pre-test 27.3% post-test 41.8%, sudden trouble walking, loss of balance or coordination, pre-test 32.7% post-test 70.9%, sudden numbness or weakness of the arm or leg, especially on one side of the body, pre-test 47.3% post-test 72.7%, sudden confusion, pre-test 27.3% post-test 81.8%, sudden numbness or weakness of the face especially on one side of the body, pre-test 40.0% post-test 76.4%, sudden severe headache with no known cause, pre-test 40.0% post-test 70.9%, Sudden trouble seeing in one or both eyes, pre-test 38.1% post-test 66.0%, nausea or vomiting pre-test 16.4% post-test 43.6%. The increases after the health education on stroke were statistically significant. Conclusions: Health education on stroke for rural elderly people are needed and should focus on community health care programs, especially for those who are older, had a low level of education, and low socio-economical status.

Present State and the Promotion Course of Culture Contents Industry in Gyeongbuk Province (경북 문화콘텐츠산업의 현황과 육성 방향)

  • Seo, Kok-Suk
    • The Journal of the Korea Contents Association
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    • v.9 no.5
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    • pp.137-144
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    • 2009
  • Culture contents industry in Gyeongbuk province has consumption system, being small-scale, an lacking infrastructure, imbalance, a shortage of strategy, and so on. But, culture contents industry in Gyeongbuk province has great possibilities in abundant culture resources, a prospect of the culture contents industry and future effective promotion strategy. And the promotion plans are the digitalization of the cultural original form, the edutainment of the Confucianism culture, construction of a traditional cultural digital center, location marketing, establishment of Documentary Film Council, culture literacy, an orientation of small film, promotion of the global city and the culture base city, development of killer contents, exploitation of tourism resource, discriminating strategy, and so on. Actually Gyeongbuk province should need to promote the culture contents industry because of high added value, an effect on related industries, utility of the digital culture contents, extension of a market scale, a rapid growth speed, and so on.

AN ANALOGUE OF THE HILTON-MILNER THEOREM FOR WEAK COMPOSITIONS

  • Ku, Cheng Yeaw;Wong, Kok Bin
    • Bulletin of the Korean Mathematical Society
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    • v.52 no.3
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    • pp.1007-1025
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    • 2015
  • Let $\mathbb{N}_0$ be the set of non-negative integers, and let P(n, l) denote the set of all weak compositions of n with l parts, i.e., $P(n,l)=\{(x_1,x_2,{\cdots},x_l){\in}\mathbb{N}^l_0\;:\;x_1+x_2+{\cdots}+x_l=n\}$. For any element $u=(u_1,u_2,{\cdots},u_l){\in}P(n,l)$, denote its ith-coordinate by u(i), i.e., $u(i)=u_i$. A family $A{\subseteq}P(n,l)$ is said to be t-intersecting if ${\mid}\{i:u(i)=v(i)\}{\mid}{\geq}t$ for all $u,v{\epsilon}A$. A family $A{\subseteq}P(n,l)$ is said to be trivially t-intersecting if there is a t-set T of $[l]=\{1,2,{\cdots},l\}$ and elements $y_s{\in}\mathbb{N}_0(s{\in}T)$ such that $A=\{u{\in}P(n,l):u(j)=yj\;for\;all\;j{\in}T\}$. We prove that given any positive integers l, t with $l{\geq}2t+3$, there exists a constant $n_0(l,t)$ depending only on l and t, such that for all $n{\geq}n_0(l,t)$, if $A{\subseteq}P(n,l)$ is non-trivially t-intersecting, then $${\mid}A{\mid}{\leq}(^{n+l-t-l}_{l-t-1})-(^{n-1}_{l-t-1})+t$$. Moreover, equality holds if and only if there is a t-set T of [l] such that $$A=\bigcup_{s{\in}[l]{\backslash}T}\;A_s{\cup}\{q_i:i{\in}T\}$$, where $$A_s=\{u{\in}P(n,l):u(j)=0\;for\;all\;j{\in}T\;and\;u(s)=0\}$$ and $$q_i{\in}P(n,l)\;with\;q_i(j)=0\;fo\;all\;j{\in}[l]{\backslash}\{i\}\;and\;q_i(i)=n$$.

Safety Analysis of Adjuvant Chemotherapy with Docetaxel Administered with or without Anthracyclines to Early Stage Breast Cancer Patients: Combined Results from the Asia-Pacific Breast Initiatives I and II

  • Kim, Sung Bae;Sayeed, Ahmed;Villalon, Antonio H;Shen, Zhen Zhou;Yau, Tsz Kok;Shah, Mazhar Ali;Hou, Meng Feng;Thuan, Tran Van;Ba, Duc Nguyen;Chao, Tsu-Yi
    • Asian Pacific Journal of Cancer Prevention
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    • v.17 no.2
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    • pp.697-702
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    • 2016
  • Background: The Asia-Pacific Breast Initiatives (APBI) I and II registries were established to collect safety data for patients with early stage breast cancer receiving adjuvant docetaxel-based regimens in the Asia-Pacific region. Materials and Methods: Data from the two registries were combined to perform a safety analysis. Participants in the registry were women with early stage operable breast cancer with an intermediate or high risk of recurrence. These women received adjuvant chemotherapy that included docetaxel between 2006 and 2011. Adverse events (AEs) were recorded and analyzed. Results: Data were collected from 3,224 patients from 13 countries. The mean dose intensity of docetaxel was 24.1, 22.7, $25.1mg/m^2/week$ among patients receiving docetaxel-based monotherapy, combination therapy and sequential therapy, respectively. Granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) was given with docetaxel to 41.8% of women and 20.6% of women receiving prophylactic antibiotics. Adverse events were reported in 86% of patients (anthracycline-containing regimens vs. non-anthracycline regimens; 87% vs. 80%). The most common adverse events were alopecia, nausea, neutropenia, vomiting, and myalgia. Adverse events NCI CTCAE ${\geq}$Grade 3 were reported in 45.4% of patients. Serious adverse events were reported in 13% of patients, of which 2.5% led to study discontinuation. Forty-six deaths (1.4%) were reported, with no significant difference between regimens. Conclusions: The safety parameters of adjuvant docetaxel therapy used to treat sequential Asian women were comparable to those reported in clinical trials evaluating the role of adjuvant docetaxel. No unusual adverse events linked to Asia-Pacific region patients were observed.