Here, a Finsler manifold $(M,F)$ is considered with corresponding curvature tensor, regarded as $2$-forms on the bundle of non-zero tangent vectors. Certain subspaces of the tangent spaces of $M$ determined by the curvature are introduced and called $k$-nullity foliations of the curvature operator. It is shown that if the dimension of foliation is constant, then the distribution is involutive...

Integrated production-distribution planning (PDP) is one of the most important approaches in supply chain networks. We consider a supply chain network (SCN) to consist of multi suppliers, plants, distribution centers (DCs), and retailers. A bi-objective mixed integer linear programming model for integrating production-distribution designed here aim to simultaneously minimize total net costs in ...

This numerical study examines the stirring properties of a 2D flow field with a specific focus on the alignment dynamics of tracer gradient vectors. In accordance with the study of Hua and Klein [Physica D 113 (1998) 98], our approach involves the full second order Lagrangian dynamics and in particular the second order in time equation for the tracer gradient norm. If the physical space is part...

Cross-ply laminates reinforced with basalt fibers and functionalized multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) were fabricated from unidirectional epoxy prepregs. MWCNTs with varied surface conditions were prepared by oxidization or esterification, and then dispersed into a DGEBA epoxy system. The dispersion of the MWCNTs in the epoxy was improved by surface modification, resulting in improved com...

In this work, graphene nanoplatelets (GNPs) reinforced magnesium (Mg) matrix composites were synthesised using the multi-step dispersion route. Well-dispersed but inhomogeneously distributed GNPs were obtained in the matrix. Compared with the monolithic alloy, the nanocomposites exhibited dramatically enhanced Young's modulus, yield strength and ultimate tensile strength and relatively high pla...

Although non-viral gene delivery is a very straightforward technology, there are currently no FDA-approved gene medicinal products available. Therefore, improving potency, safety, and efficiency of current plasmid DNA vectors will be a major task for the near future. This article will provide an overview on factors influencing production yield and quality as well as safety issues that emerge fr...

This paper presents an optimization methodology that includes three important components necessary for a systematic approach to naval ship concept design. These are: • An efficient and effective search of design space for non-dominated designs • Well-defined and quantitative measures of objective attributes • An effective format to describe the design space and to present non-dominated concepts...