A Modified Hybrid Genetic Algorithm for Solving Nonlinear Optimal Control Problems

Here, a two-phase algorithm is proposed for solving bounded continuous-time nonlinear optimal control problems (NOCP). In each phase of the algorithm, a modified hybrid genetic algorithm (MHGA) is applied, which performs a local search on offsprings. In first phase, a random initial population of control input values in time nodes is constructed. Next, MHGA starts with this population. After phase 1, to achieve more accurate solutions, the number of time nodes is increased. The values of the associated new control inputs are estimated by Linear interpolation (LI) or Spline interpolation (SI), using the curves obtained from the phase 1. In addition, to maintain the diversity in the population, some additional individuals are added randomly. Next, in the second phase, MHGA restarts with the new population constructed by above procedure and tries to improve the obtained solutions at the end of phase 1. We implement our proposed algorithm on 20 well-known benchmark and real world problems; then the results are compared with some recently proposed algorithms. Moreover, two statistical approaches are considered for the comparison of the LI and SI methods and investigation of sensitivity analysis for the MHGA parameters

Physics and fabrication of quasi-one-dimensional conductors

Thesis (Ph. D.)--Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Dept. of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, 1993.Includes bibliographical references (leaves 128-134).by Reza A. Ghanbari.Ph.D

Inflammatory myofibroblastic tumor of the larynx: A case report

Introduction: Inflammatory myofibroblastic pseudotumors are initially described in the lung and various extrapulmonary sites such as the orbits, palatine tonsils, ears, gingiva, pterygomaxillary space, and periodontal tissues. These tumors rarely involve the larynx and predilection to the glottis occurs in an indolent manner. Case Report: This case describes a laryngeal myofibroblastic tumor in a 46-year-old woman who presented with an aggressive tumor that extended to the floor of the mouth and the base of the tongue. Extended supraglottic laryngectomy was undertaken for the patient. The diagnosis was spindle cell proliferation with dense lymphoplasma cell infiltration compatible with inflammatory myofibroblastic tumor (Inflammatory pseudotumor or plasma cell granuloma). Definitive diagnosis was achieved with immunohistochemical (IHC) staining. Conclusion: We believe that further IHC studies are required to define the true nature of these tumors especially for those that behave in an aggressive pattern

Evaluation of the effectiveness of electro-coagulation-flotation process for removal toxicity of olive oil mill wastewater

Background: The olive oil mill wastewater is one of the contaminating food industrial wastewaters. Olive oil extraction process imports wastewater with high phenolic chemicals into the environment. In this study the toxicity of raw olive oil mill wastewater and the effluent of electro-coagulation have been investigated.Material & Methods: Germination test was used for evaluating the toxicity of wastewater and effluent process. Electro-coagulation-flotation examinations performed in a plexiglas electrochemical reactor with 1750 ml practical volume. 4 blades of aluminum and titanium as anode and cathode electrodes with a gap of 2 cm were connected to DC power supply in monopolar parallel mode.Results: Based on the information from this study, the pollution load of phenolic compounds in olive oil mill wastewater is 1000 times more than municipal wastewater. Also, the evaluation toxicity of effluent obtained from the process in natural pH of wastewater (pH=5.2), 117 mA/m2 current density and 30 minutes time process, suggests that the effluent causes plant species growth, even without dilution.Conclusion: The results obtained from this research can warn us to the risks of releasing these wastewaters without treatment and toxic effects on the different species of plants. Results demonstrated although using of electro-coagulation-flotation process removes high percent of pollutants of olive oil mill wastewater, but, it can’t attain the discharge limitations, then it should be more treated with some other methods.Key words: Toxicity, Electro-Coagulation-Flotation, Olive Wastewate

A Study of the Effects of Mobile Technology Solutions on Effective Deployment of Mobile Learning in Medical Education Based on the Technology Acceptance Model

Background & Objective: Mobile learning, as a new stage of development in e-learning, provides opportunities for information transfer, and strengthening and improving lifelong learning in students of medical sciences. The present study was conducted to evaluate the effect of mobile technology solutions on effective deployment of mobile learning in medical education based on the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM). Methods: This was an objective-based applied research and, based on the method of data collection, a descriptive survey. The statistical population consisted of all faculty members of the Hamadan University of Medical Sciences in 2014. The sample size (n = 188) was determined using Cochran formula. Data were collected using the Mobile Technology Development Strategies Questionnaires and Davis’ TAM. Data analysis was performed using the correlation coefficient, t-test, confirmatory factor analysis, structural equation modeling, and path analysis and LISREL and SPSS software. Results: Instructional strategies, administrative-structural, managerial, and motivational–recreational, respectively, had the most significant effect (at the level of 0.01) on the teachers’ perception of the usefulness of mobile learning and the simplicity of its use. Based on TAM, these two components had positive effects on attitude toward using and deciding to use mobile technology. Thereby, they have significant positive effects on the application of mobile technology in teaching and learning by teachers (at the level of 0.01). Conclusion: Based on these results, TAM was approved according to the guidelines provided on mobile learning development in the study population, and thus, has deployment potential in the target population. Key Words: Mobile technology, Mobile learning, Technology Acceptance Model (TAM), Structural equation, Path analysi