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\"Did you know manta rays cannot stop swimming? Manta ray skeletons are made entirely of cartilage, which bends easily so the manta ray can flap and curl its pectoral fins. Discover more about this intriguing underwater dweller in [this book]\"-- Provided by publisher.

Manta Ray Foraging Optimization Algorithm (MRFO) is a new bio-inspired, meta-heuristic algorithm. MRFO algorithm has been used for the first time to optimize a multi-objective problem. The best size and location of distributed generations (DG) units have been determined to optimize three different objective functions. Minimization of active power loss, minimization of voltage deviation, and maximization of voltage stability index has been achieved through optimizing DG units under different power factor values, unity, 0.95, 0.866, and optimum value. MRFO has been applied to optimize DGs integrated with two well-known radial distribution power systems: IEEE 33-bus and 69-bus systems. The simulation results have been compared to different optimization algorithms in different cases. The results provide clear evidence of the superiority of MRFO that defind before (Manta Ray Foraging Optimization Algorithm. Quasi-Oppositional Differential Evolution Lévy Flights Algorithm (QODELFA), Stochastic Fractal Search Algorithm (SFSA), Genetics Algorithm (GA), Comprehensive Teaching Learning-Based Optimization (CTLBO), Comprehensive Teaching Learning-Based Optimization (CTLBO (ε constraint)), Multi-Objective Harris Hawks Optimization (MOHHO), Multi-Objective Improved Harris Hawks Optimization (MOIHHO), Multi-Objective Particle Swarm Optimization (MOPSO), and Multi-Objective Particle Swarm Optimization (MOWOA) in terms of power loss, Voltage Stability Index (VSI), and voltage deviation for a wide range of operating conditions. It is clear that voltage buses are improved; and power losses are decreased in both IEEE 33-bus and IEEE 69-bus system for all studied cases. MRFO algorithm gives good results with a smaller number of iterations, which means saving the time required for solving the problem and saving energy. Using the new MRFO technique has a promising future in optimizing different power system problems.

\"Dscover facts about rays, including physical features, habitat, life cycle, food, and threats to these ocean creatures. Photos, captions, and keywords supplement the narrative of this informational text\"-- Provided by publisher.

In geotechnical engineering, the maximum dry density (MDD) stands as an important parameter, denoting the utmost mass of soil achievable per unit volume when compacted to its maximum dry state. Its significance extends to the design of various earthworks like embankments, foundations, and pavements, influencing the soil’s strength, stiffness, and stability. The MDD is contingent on diverse elements like soil type, grain size distribution, moisture content and compaction effort. Generally, heightened compaction effort correlates with an increased MDD, while elevated moisture content corresponds to a reduced MDD. Accurate prediction of the MDD under specific conditions is imperative to uphold the quality and safety standards of earthworks. This research aims to introduce Support Vector Regression (SVR) as a modeling technique for predicting the MDD of soil-stabilizer mixtures. To establish an accurate and comprehensive model that can correlate the stabilized soil’s MDD with attributes of natural soil, consisting linear shrinkage, particle size distribution, plasticity, as well as the type and number of stabilizing additives, three optimization algorithms, namely Artificial Rabbits Optimization (ARO), Manta Ray Foraging Optimization (MRFO), and Improved Manta-Ray Foraging Optimizer (IMRFO), were employed in addition to SVR. Considering the results of evaluative metrics, the SVAR model (combination of SVR and ARO) experienced the highest predictive performance, registering an impressive value of R 2 in the training phase with 0.9948, as well as the lowest RMSE value of 19.1376.

The transport sector is recognized as one of the largest carbon emitters. To achieve China's carbon peak commitment in the Paris Agreement on schedule, it is indispensable to explore the peak carbon emissions and mitigation strategies in the transport sector. Many researches in the past have contextualized in China's total emissions peak, while the study about forecasting China's transport CO2 emissions peak seldom appeared, especially the application of intelligent prediction model. To further investigate the determinants and forecast the peak of transport CO2 emissions in China accurately, a novel bio-inspired prediction model is proposed in this paper, namely, the extreme learning machine (ELM) optimized by manta rays foraging optimization (MRFO), hereafter referred as MRFO-ELM. Adhering to this hybrid model, the mean impact value (MIV) method is then employed to evaluate and differentiate the importance of thirteen influencing factors. Additionally, three scenarios are set to conduct prediction of China's transport CO2 emissions. The empirical results indicate that the proposed MRFO-ELM has excellent performance in terms of the optimization searching velocity and prediction accuracy. Simultaneously the level of vehicle electrification is verified to be one of the emerging major factors affecting China's transport CO2 emissions. The transport CO2 emissions in China would peak in 2039 under the baseline model scenario, while the plateau would occur in 2035 or 2043 under sustainable development mode and high growth mode, respectively. The peak years imply much pressure on China's transport carbon emissions abatement currently, whereas active policy adjustments can effectively urge the earlier occurrence of the emission peak. These new findings suggest that it is essential for China to improve the energy mix and encourage the electric energy replacement in line with urbanization pace, so as to achieve CO2 emissions mitigation in the transport industry.The transport sector is recognized as one of the largest carbon emitters. To achieve China's carbon peak commitment in the Paris Agreement on schedule, it is indispensable to explore the peak carbon emissions and mitigation strategies in the transport sector. Many researches in the past have contextualized in China's total emissions peak, while the study about forecasting China's transport CO2 emissions peak seldom appeared, especially the application of intelligent prediction model. To further investigate the determinants and forecast the peak of transport CO2 emissions in China accurately, a novel bio-inspired prediction model is proposed in this paper, namely, the extreme learning machine (ELM) optimized by manta rays foraging optimization (MRFO), hereafter referred as MRFO-ELM. Adhering to this hybrid model, the mean impact value (MIV) method is then employed to evaluate and differentiate the importance of thirteen influencing factors. Additionally, three scenarios are set to conduct prediction of China's transport CO2 emissions. The empirical results indicate that the proposed MRFO-ELM has excellent performance in terms of the optimization searching velocity and prediction accuracy. Simultaneously the level of vehicle electrification is verified to be one of the emerging major factors affecting China's transport CO2 emissions. The transport CO2 emissions in China would peak in 2039 under the baseline model scenario, while the plateau would occur in 2035 or 2043 under sustainable development mode and high growth mode, respectively. The peak years imply much pressure on China's transport carbon emissions abatement currently, whereas active policy adjustments can effectively urge the earlier occurrence of the emission peak. These new findings suggest that it is essential for China to improve the energy mix and encourage the electric energy replacement in line with urbanization pace, so as to achieve CO2 emissions mitigation in the transport industry.

This study investigates the feasibility of a relevance vector machine tuned with improved Manta-Ray foraging optimization (RVM-IMRFO) in predicting monthly pan evaporation using limited climatic input data (e.g. temperature). The accuracy of the RVM-IMRFO was evaluated by comparing it with RVM tuned by gray wolf optimization, RVM tuned with a whale optimization algorithm, and RVM tuned with Manta Ray foraging optimization concerning root mean square errors (RMSE), mean absolute errors (MAE), determination coefficient (R 2 ) and Nash-Sutcliffe Efficiency (NSE) and new graphical inspection methods. The models were assessed using data acquired from two stations in China and data were divided into three equal parts. The models were tested using each data set. The application outcomes revealed that the proposed algorithm considerably improved the accuracy of a single RVM in monthly pan evaporation prediction by an average improvement in RMSE, MAE, R 2 , and NSE as 27.65%, 27.53%, 8.40% and 8.63%, respectively. It is also found that the proposed algorithm showed significant dominance over others models with respect to improvement in overall mean values of RMSE, MAE, R 2 , and NSE statistics from 34.7-38.2 to 18.2-19.5, 36.2-36.4 to 19.1-18.5, 12.5-13.8 to 3.6-3.7, and 12.4-14.6 to 3.6-3.9%, for both climatic stations, respectively. Importing extraterrestrial radiation and periodicity component (month number of the data) into the model inputs improved the prediction accuracy of the implemented models. The outcomes revealed that the RVM-IMRFO performed superior to the other methods in predicting monthly pan evaporation using only temperature data which is essential, especially in developing countries where other climatic data are missing or unavailable. The RVM model was also compared with standard multi-layer perceptron neural networks (MLPNN) and found that the first acts better than the latter in monthly pan evaporation prediction.

A manta ray is a typical representation of its pectoral fin propulsion mode, which is stable and conducive to wide area cruise, thus being suitable for bionic targets of a bionic vehicle. This paper established a computational model of the two-degree-of-freedom self-propulsion of the manta ray. Its motion equation and fluid dynamic equation were coupled to numerically simulate its self-propulsion process from stationary-state start-up and acceleration to steady-state cruise. The time history changes of the manta ray's swimming speed, hydrodynamic force, pressure distribution and three-dimensional flow field structure were analyzed. The simulation results show that, during the self-propulsion process of the manta ray, its speed, acceleration and displacement in its forward direction are completely determined by the net thrust generated during the flexible deformation of the pectoral fins and the net resistance encountered during its forward swimming. In the acceleration stage, the net thrust is superior and mainly generated near the tips of the pectoral fins. When the balance between the thrust and the resistance is reached, the manta ray is in its steady cruise stage. The flexible deformation of the spanwise and chordwise superposition of the pectoral fins may produce complex three-dimensional vortex structures. The numerical simulation method proposed in this paper and the study of the manta ray's self-propulsion process lay the foundation for further revealing its swimming mechanisms. 蝠鲼是胸鳍推进模式的典型代表, 稳定性好, 利于广域巡游, 非常适合作为仿生航行器的仿生目标。建立蝠鲼两自由度自主游动的计算模型, 耦合求解蝠鲼运动方程与流体动力方程, 数值模拟了蝠鲼从静止状态启动加速, 最终到达稳态巡游的自主游动过程, 分析了蝠鲼游动速度、水动力、压力分布以及三维流场结构的时间历程变化。计算结果表明: 在蝠鲼自主游动过程中, 前游方向的速度、加速度、位移等完全由胸鳍柔性变形时产生的净推力以及前游时受到的净阻力共同决定, 在加速阶段净推力占优, 且推力主要由靠近鳍尖部分产生, 推阻力平衡时蝠鲼到达稳态巡游阶段, 蝠鲼胸鳍展向及弦向叠加的柔性变形会产生复杂的三维涡结构。文中提出的数值仿真方法以及对蝠鲼自主游动过程的研究为后续揭示蝠鲼游动机理奠定了基础。

This paper comprehensively analyzes the Manta Ray Foraging Optimization (MRFO) algorithm and its integration into diverse academic fields. Introduced in 2020, the MRFO stands as a novel metaheuristic algorithm, drawing inspiration from manta rays’ unique foraging behaviors—specifically cyclone, chain, and somersault foraging. These biologically inspired strategies allow for effective solutions to intricate physical challenges. With its potent exploitation and exploration capabilities, MRFO has emerged as a promising solution for complex optimization problems. Its utility and benefits have found traction in numerous academic sectors. Since its inception in 2020, a plethora of MRFO-based research has been featured in esteemed international journals such as IEEE, Wiley, Elsevier, Springer, MDPI, Hindawi, and Taylor & Francis, as well as at international conference proceedings. This paper consolidates the available literature on MRFO applications, covering various adaptations like hybridized, improved, and other MRFO variants, alongside optimization challenges. Research trends indicate that 12%, 31%, 8%, and 49% of MRFO studies are distributed across these four categories respectively.

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is pervasive worldwide, posing a high risk to people’s safety and health. Many algorithms were developed to identify COVID-19. One way of identifying COVID-19 is by computed tomography (CT) images. Some segmentation methods are proposed to extract regions of interest from COVID-19 CT images to improve the classification. In this paper, an efficient version of the recent manta ray foraging optimization (MRFO) algorithm is proposed based on the oppositionbased learning called the MRFO-OBL algorithm. The original MRFO algorithm can stagnate in local optima and requires further exploration with adequate exploitation. Thus, to improve the population variety in the search space, we applied Opposition-based learning (OBL) in the MRFO’s initialization step. MRFO-OBL algorithm can solve the image segmentation problem using multilevel thresholding. The proposed MRFO-OBL is evaluated using Otsu’s method over the COVID-19 CT images and compared with six meta-heuristic algorithms: sine-cosine algorithm, moth flame optimization, equilibrium optimization, whale optimization algorithm, slap swarm algorithm, and original MRFO algorithm. MRFO-OBL obtained useful and accurate results in quality, consistency, and evaluation matrices, such as peak signal-to-noise ratio and structural similarity index. Eventually, MRFO-OBL obtained more robustness for the segmentation than all other algorithms compared. The experimental results demonstrate that the proposed method outperforms the original MRFO and the other compared algorithms under Otsu’s method for all the used metrics.

Feature selection (FS) is considered as one of the core concepts in the areas of machine learning and data mining which immensely impacts the performance of classification model. Through FS, irrelevant or partially relevant features can be eliminated which in turn helps in enhancing the performance of the model. Over the years, researchers have applied different meta-heuristic optimization techniques for the purpose of FS as these overcome the limitations of traditional optimization approaches. Going by the trend, we introduce a new FS approach based on a recently proposed meta-heuristic algorithm called Manta ray foraging optimization (MRFO) which is developed following the food foraging nature of the Manta rays, one of the largest known marine creatures. As MRFO is apposite for continuous search space problems, we have adapted a binary version of MRFO to fit it into the problem of FS by applying eight different transfer functions belonging to two different families: S-shaped and V-shaped. We have evaluated the eight binary versions of MRFO on 18 standard UCI datasets. Of these, the best one is considered for comparison with 16 recently proposed meta-heuristic FS approaches. The results show that MRFO outperforms the state-of-the-art methods in terms of both classification accuracy and number of features selected. The source code of this work is available in https://github.com/Rangerix/MetaheuristicOptimization .