Search results for "Distributed Optimization and Learning"
Items we need to order for you

Optimization and Data Science: Trends and Applications
This proceedings volume collects contributions from the 5th AIRO Young Workshop and AIRO PhD School 2021 joint event on “Optimization and Data Science: Trends and Applications”, held online, from February 8 to 12, 2021. The joint event was organized by AIROYoung representatives and the Operations Research Group of the Department of Electrical Engineering and Information Technology of the University “Federico II” of Naples.The selected contributions represent the state-of-the-art knowledge related to different branches of research, such as data science, machine learning and combinatorial optimization. Therefore, this book is primarily addressed to researchers and PhD students of the operations research community. However, due to its interdisciplinary content, it will be of high interest for other closely related research communities. Moreover, this volume not only presents theoretical results but also covers real applications in computer science, engineering, economics, healthcare, and logistics, making it interesting for practitioners facing complex decision-making problems in these areas.
R 6,228.00

Empirical Estimates in Stochastic Optimization and Identification
This book contains problems of stochastic optimization and identification. Results concerning uniform law of large numbers, convergence of approximate estimates of extreme points, as well as empirical estimates of functionals with probability 1 and in probability are presented. Audience: Specialists in stochastic optimization and estimations, postgraduate students, and graduate students studying such topics
R 3,031.28


Dynamic Optimization and Differential Games
This book has been written to address the increasing number of Operations Research and Management Science problems (that is, applications) that involve the explicit consideration of time and of gaming among multiple agents. It is a book that will be used both as a textbook and as a reference and guide by those whose work involves the theoretical aspects of dynamic optimization and differential games.
R 12,702.83

Generalized Convexity and Vector Optimization
The present lecture note is dedicated to the study of the optimality conditions and the duality results for nonlinear vector optimization problems, in ?nite and in?nite dimensions. The problems include are nonlinear vector optimization problems, s- metric dual problems, continuous-time vector optimization problems, relationships between vector optimization and variational inequality problems. Nonlinear vector optimization problems arise in several contexts such as in the building and interpretation of economic models; the study of various technolo- cal processes; the development of optimal choices in ?nance; management science; production processes; transportation problems and statistical decisions, etc. In preparing this lecture note a special effort has been made to obtain a se- contained treatment of the subjects; so we hope that this may be a suitable source for a beginner in this fast growing area of research, a semester graduate course in nonlinear programing, and a good reference book. This book may be useful to theoretical economists, engineers, and applied researchers involved in this area of active research. The lecture note is divided into eight chapters: Chapter 1 brie?y deals with the notion of nonlinear programing problems with basic notations and preliminaries. Chapter 2 deals with various concepts of convex sets, convex functions, invex set, invex functions, quasiinvex functions, pseudoinvex functions, type I and generalized type I functions, V-invex functions, and univex functions.
R 3,038.50

PyTorch 1.x Reinforcement Learning Cookbook
Implement reinforcement learning techniques and algorithms with the help of real-world examples and recipesKey FeaturesUse PyTorch 1.x to design and build self-learning artificial intelligence (AI) modelsImplement RL algorithms to solve control and optimization challenges faced by data scientists todayApply modern RL libraries to simulate a controlled environment for your projectsBook DescriptionReinforcement learning (RL) is a branch of machine learning that has gained popularity in recent times. It allows you to train AI models that learn from their own actions and optimize their behavior. PyTorch has also emerged as the preferred tool for training RL models because of its efficiency and ease of use.With this book, you'll explore the important RL concepts and the implementation of algorithms in PyTorch 1.x. The recipes in the book, along with real-world examples, will help you master various RL techniques, such as dynamic programming, Monte Carlo simulations, temporal difference, and Q-learning. You'll also gain insights into industry-specific applications of these techniques. Later chapters will guide you through solving problems such as the multi-armed bandit problem and the cartpole problem using the multi-armed bandit algorithm and function approximation. You'll also learn how to use Deep Q-Networks to complete Atari games, along with how to effectively implement policy gradients. Finally, you'll discover how RL techniques are applied to Blackjack, Gridworld environments, internet advertising, and the Flappy Bird game.By the end of this book, you'll have developed the skills you need to implement popular RL algorithms and use RL techniques to solve real-world problems.What you will learnUse Q-learning and the state–action–reward–state–action (SARSA) algorithm to solve various Gridworld problemsDevelop a multi-armed bandit algorithm to optimize display advertisingScale up learning and control processes using Deep Q-NetworksSimulate Markov Decision Processes, OpenAI Gym environments, and other common control problemsSelect and build RL models, evaluate their performance, and optimize and deploy themUse policy gradient methods to solve continuous RL problemsWho this book is forMachine learning engineers, data scientists and AI researchers looking for quick solutions to different reinforcement learning problems will find this book useful. Although prior knowledge of machine learning concepts is required, experience with PyTorch will be useful but not necessary.
R 1,498.00

Abstract Convexity and Global Optimization
Special tools are required for examining and solving optimization problems. The main tools in the study of local optimization are classical calculus and its modern generalizions which form nonsmooth analysis. The gradient and various kinds of generalized derivatives allow us to ac complish a local approximation of a given function in a neighbourhood of a given point. This kind of approximation is very useful in the study of local extrema. However, local approximation alone cannot help to solve many problems of global optimization, so there is a clear need to develop special global tools for solving these problems. The simplest and most well-known area of global and simultaneously local optimization is convex programming. The fundamental tool in the study of convex optimization problems is the subgradient, which actu ally plays both a local and global role. First, a subgradient of a convex function f at a point x carries out a local approximation of f in a neigh bourhood of x. Second, the subgradient permits the construction of an affine function, which does not exceed f over the entire space and coincides with f at x. This affine function h is called a support func tion. Since f(y) ~ h(y) for ally, the second role is global. In contrast to a local approximation, the function h will be called a global affine support.
R 4,688.24

Concise Introduction to Multiagent Systems and Distributed Artificial Intelligence
Multiagent systems is an expanding field that blends classical fields like game theory and decentralized control with modern fields like computer science and machine learning. This monograph provides a concise introduction to the subject, covering the theoretical foundations as well as more recent developments in a coherent and readable manner. The text is centered on the concept of an agent as decision maker. Chapter 1 is a short introduction to the field of multiagent systems. Chapter 2 covers the basic theory of singleagent decision making under uncertainty. Chapter 3 is a brief introduction to game theory, explaining classical concepts like Nash equilibrium. Chapter 4 deals with the fundamental problem of coordinating a team of collaborative agents. Chapter 5 studies the problem of multiagent reasoning and decision making under partial observability. Chapter 6 focuses on the design of protocols that are stable against manipulations by self-interested agents. Chapter 7 provides a short introduction to the rapidly expanding field of multiagent reinforcement learning. The material can be used for teaching a half-semester course on multiagent systems covering, roughly, one chapter per lecture.
R 1,318.87

Mathematical Optimization Theory and Operations Research
This book constitutes the proceedings of the 21st International Conference on Mathematical Optimization Theory and Operations Research, MOTOR 2022, held in Petrozavodsk, Russia, in July 2022. The 21 full papers presented together with 6 invited abstracts lectures and 2 tutorial abstracts in this volume were carefully reviewed and selected from 88 submissions. The conference focuses on the following topics: Mathematical programming, bi-level and global optimization, integer programming and combinatorial optimization, approximation algorithms with theoretical guarantees and approximation schemes, heuristics and meta-heuristics, game theory, optimal control, optimization in machine learning and data analysis, and their valuable applications in operations research and economics.
R 7,714.69

Optimization in Function Spaces
This is an essentially self-contained book on the theory of convex functions and convex optimization in Banach spaces, with a special interest in Orlicz spaces. Approximate algorithms based on the stability principles and the solution of the corresponding nonlinear equations are developed in this text. A synopsis of the geometry of Banach spaces, aspects of stability and the duality of different levels of differentiability and convexity is developed. A particular emphasis is placed on the geometrical aspects of strong solvability of a convex optimization problem: it turns out that this property is equivalent to local uniform convexity of the corresponding convex function. This treatise also provides a novel approach to the fundamental theorems of Variational Calculus based on the principle of pointwise minimization of the Lagrangian on the one hand and convexification by quadratic supplements using the classical Legendre-Ricatti equation on the other. The reader should be familiar with the concepts of mathematical analysis and linear algebra. Some awareness of the principles of measure theory will turn out to be helpful. The book is suitable for students of the second half of undergraduate studies, and it provides a rich set of material for a master course on linear and nonlinear functional analysis. Additionally it offers novel aspects at the advanced level. From the contents: Approximation and Polya Algorithms in Orlicz Spaces Convex Sets and Convex Functions Numerical Treatment of Non-linear Equations and Optimization Problems Stability and Two-stage Optimization Problems Orlicz Spaces, Orlicz Norm and Duality Differentiability and Convexity in Orlicz Spaces Variational Calculus
R 11,542.12

Reinforcement Learning Aided Performance Optimization of Feedback Control Systems
Changsheng Hua proposes two approaches, an input/output recovery approach and a performance index-based approach for robustness and performance optimization of feedback control systems. For their data-driven implementation in deterministic and stochastic systems, the author develops Q-learning and natural actor-critic (NAC) methods, respectively. Their effectiveness has been demonstrated by an experimental study on a brushless direct current motor test rig.The author:Changsheng Hua received the Ph.D. degree at the Institute of Automatic Control and Complex Systems (AKS), University of Duisburg-Essen, Germany, in 2020. His research interests include model-based and data-driven fault diagnosis and fault-tolerant techniques.
R 3,103.31

Distributed Simulation
This uniquetext/reference provides a comprehensive review of distributed simulation (DS)from the perspective of Model Driven Engineering (MDE), illustrating how MDEaffects the overall lifecycle of the simulation development process. Numerouspractical case studies are included to demonstrate the utility andapplicability of the methodology, many of which are developed from toolsavailable to download from the public domain.Topics and features:Provides a thorough introduction to the fundamental concepts, principles and processes of modeling and simulation, MDE and high-level architectureDescribes a road map for building a DS system in accordance with the MDE perspective, and a technical framework for the development of conceptual modelsPresents a focus on federate (simulation environment) architectures, detailing a practical approach to the design of federations (i.e., simulation member design) Discusses the main activities related to scenario management in DS, and explores the process of MDE-based implementation, integration and testing Reviews approaches to simulation evolution and modernization, including architecture-driven modernization for simulation modernizationExamines the potential synergies between the agent, DS, and MDE methodologies, suggesting avenues for future research at the intersection of these three fieldsDistributed Simulation –A Model Driven Engineering Approach is an important resource for allresearchers and practitioners involved in modeling and simulation, and softwareengineering, who may be interested in adopting MDE principles when developingcomplex DS systems.
R 3,892.49

Intelligent Distributed Computing X
This book presents the combined peer-reviewed proceedings of the tenth International Symposium on Intelligent Distributed Computing (IDC’2016), which was held in Paris, France from October 10th to 12th, 2016. The 23 contributions address a range of topics related to theory and application of intelligent distributed computing, including: Intelligent Distributed Agent-Based Systems, Ambient Intelligence and Social Networks, Computational Sustainability, Intelligent Distributed Knowledge Representation and Processing, Smart Networks, Networked Intelligence and Intelligent Distributed Applications, amongst others.
R 6,556.80

Distributed Learning
The field of distributed learning is constantly evolving. Online technology provides instructors with the flexibility to offer meaningful instruction to students who are at a distance or in some cases right on campus, but still unable to be physically present in the classroom. This dynamic environment challenges librarians to monitor, learn, adapt, collaborate, and use new technological advances in order to make the best use of techniques to engage students and improve learning outcomes and success rates. Distributed Learning provides evidence based information on a variety of issues, surrounding online teaching and learning from the perspective of librarians.
R 2,943.00

Optimization
The 21 self-contained chapters in this book, include recent developments in several optimization-related topics such as decision theory, linear programming, turnpike theory, duality theory, convex analysis, and queueing theory. This work will be a valuable tool not only to specialists interested in the technical detail and various applications presented, but also to researchers interested in building upon the book’s theoretical results.
R 4,673.54

Deterministic Global Optimization
The vast majority of important applications in science, engineering and applied science are characterized by the existence of multiple minima and maxima, as well as first, second and higher order saddle points. The area of Deterministic Global Optimization introduces theoretical, algorithmic and computational ad vances that (i) address the computation and characterization of global minima and maxima, (ii) determine valid lower and upper bounds on the global minima and maxima, and (iii) address the enclosure of all solutions of nonlinear con strained systems of equations. Global optimization applications are widespread in all disciplines and they range from atomistic or molecular level to process and product level representations. The primary goal of this book is three fold : first, to introduce the reader to the basics of deterministic global optimization; second, to present important theoretical and algorithmic advances for several classes of mathematical prob lems that include biconvex and bilinear; problems, signomial problems, general twice differentiable nonlinear problems, mixed integer nonlinear problems, and the enclosure of all solutions of nonlinear constrained systems of equations; and third, to tie the theory and methods together with a variety of important applications.
R 9,038.87

Large-Scale PDE-Constrained Optimization
Optimal design, optimal control, and parameter estimation of systems governed by partial differential equations (PDEs) give rise to a class of problems known as PDE-constrained optimization. The size and complexity of the discretized PDEs often pose significant challenges for contemporary optimization methods. With the maturing of technology for PDE simulation, interest has now increased in PDE-based optimization. The chapters in this volume collectively assess the state of the art in PDE-constrained optimization, identify challenges to optimization presented by modern highly parallel PDE simulation codes, and discuss promising algorithmic and software approaches for addressing them. These contributions represent current research of two strong scientific computing communities, in optimization and PDE simulation. This volume merges perspectives in these two different areas and identifies interesting open questions for further research.
R 6,118.96

Optimization and Applications
This book constitutes the refereed proceedings of the 10th International Conference on Optimization and Applications, OPTIMA 2019, held in Petrovac, Montenegro, in September-October 2019.The 35 revised full papers presented were carefully reviewed and selected from 117 submissions. The papers cover such topics as optimization, operations research, optimal control, game theory, and their numerous applications in practical problems of operations research, data analysis, and software development.
R 2,209.15

Distributed, Ambient and Pervasive Interactions
This book constitutes the refereed proceedings of the 5th International Conference on Distributed, Ambient and Pervasive Interactions, DAPI 2017, held as part of the 19th International Conference on Human-Computer Interaction, HCII 2017, held in Vancouver, BC, Canada, in July 2017. The total of 1228 papers presented at the 15 colocated HCII 2017 conferenceswas carefully reviewed and selected from 4340 submissions. These papers address the latest research and development efforts and highlight the human aspects of design and use of computing systems. The papers accepted for presentation thoroughly cover the entire field of human-computer interaction, addressing major advances in knowledge and effective use of computers in a variety of application areas. This volume contains papers addressing the following major topics: designing and evaluating distributed, ambient and pervasive interactions; natural interaction; smart cities; art and cultural heritage in smart environments; smart environments for quality of life; smart environments for learning and creativity; and ambient games and humour.
R 2,243.97


Stochastic Global Optimization
This book examines the main methodological and theoretical developments in stochastic global optimization. It is designed to inspire readers to explore various stochastic methods of global optimization by clearly explaining the main methodological principles and features of the methods. Among the book’s features is a comprehensive study of probabilistic and statistical models underlying the stochastic optimization algorithms.
R 3,842.00

Optimization, Simulation, and Control
Optimization, simulation and control play an increasingly important role in science and industry. Because of their numerous applications in various disciplines, research in these areas is accelerating at a rapid pace.This volume brings together the latest developments in these areas of research as well as presents applications of these results to a wide range of real-world problems. The book is composed of invited contributions by experts from around the world who work to develop and apply new optimization, simulation and control techniques either at a theoretical level or in practice. Some key topics presented include: equilibrium problems, multi-objective optimization, variational inequalities, stochastic processes, numerical analysis, optimization in signal processing, and various other interdisciplinary applications.This volume can serve as a useful resource for researchers, practitioners, and advanced graduate students of mathematics and engineering working in research areas where results in optimization, simulation and control can be applied.
R 4,219.50

Quasiconvex Optimization and Location Theory
grams of which the objective is given by the ratio of a convex by a positive (over a convex domain) concave function. As observed by Sniedovich (Ref. [102, 103]) most of the properties of fractional pro grams could be found in other programs, given that the objective function could be written as a particular composition of functions. He called this new field C programming, standing for composite concave programming. In his seminal book on dynamic programming (Ref. [104]), Sniedovich shows how the study of such com positions can help tackling non-separable dynamic programs that otherwise would defeat solution. Barros and Frenk (Ref. [9]) developed a cutting plane algorithm capable of optimizing C-programs. More recently, this algorithm has been used by Carrizosa and Plastria to solve a global optimization problem in facility location (Ref. [16]). The distinction between global optimization problems (Ref. [54]) and generalized convex problems can sometimes be hard to establish. That is exactly the reason why so much effort has been placed into finding an exhaustive classification of the different weak forms of convexity, establishing a new definition just to satisfy some desirable property in the most general way possible. This book does not aim at all the subtleties of the different generalizations of convexity, but concentrates on the most general of them all, quasiconvex programming. Chapter 5 shows clearly where the real difficulties appear.
R 3,029.11

Advances in Optimization and Applications
This book constitutes the refereed proceedings of the 14th International Conference on Advances in Optimization and Applications, OPTIMA 2023, held in Petrovac, Montenegro, during September 18–22, 2023.The 21 full papers included in this book were carefully reviewed and selected from 68 submissions. They were organized in topical sections as follows: mathematical programming; global optimization; continuous optimization; discrete and combinatorial optimization; optimal control; game theory and mathematical economics; optimization in economics and finance; and applications.
R 3,320.02

Classical And Modern Optimization
The quest for the optimal is ubiquitous in nature and human behavior. The field of mathematical optimization has a long history and remains active today, particularly in the development of machine learning.Classical and Modern Optimization presents a self-contained overview of classical and modern ideas and methods in approaching optimization problems. The approach is rich and flexible enough to address smooth and non-smooth, convex and non-convex, finite or infinite-dimensional, static or dynamic situations. The first chapters of the book are devoted to the classical toolbox: topology and functional analysis, differential calculus, convex analysis and necessary conditions for differentiable constrained optimization. The remaining chapters are dedicated to more specialized topics and applications.Valuable to a wide audience, including students in mathematics, engineers, data scientists or economists, Classical and Modern Optimization contains more than 200 exercises to assist with self-study or for anyone teaching a third- or fourth-year optimization class.
R 2,569.49

Optimization and Applications
This book constitutes the refereed proceedings of the 11th International Conference on Optimization and Applications, OPTIMA 2020, held in Moscow, Russia, in September-October 2020.*The 21 full and 2 short papers presented were carefully reviewed and selected from 60 submissions. The papers cover such topics as mathematical programming, combinatorial and discrete optimization, optimal control, optimization in economics, finance, and social sciences, global optimization, and applications.* The conference was held virtually due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
R 2,181.53

Optimization, Optimal Control and Partial Differential Equations
This book collects research papers presented in the First Franco- Romanian Conference on Optimization, Optimal Control and Partial Differential Equations held at lasi on 7-11 september 1992. The aim and the underlying idea of this conference was to take advantage of the new SOCial developments in East Europe and in particular in Romania to stimulate the scientific contacts and cooperation between French and Romanian mathematicians and teams working in the field of optimization and partial differential equations. This volume covers a large spectrum of problems and result developments in this field in which most of the participants have brought notable contributions. The following topics are discussed in the contributions presented in this volume. 1 -Variational methods in mechanics and physical models Here we mention the contributions of D. Cioranescu. P. Donato and H.I. Ene (fluid flows in dielectric porous media). R. Stavre (the impact of a jet with two fluids on a porous wall). C. Lefter and D. Motreanu (nonlinear eigenvalue problems with discontinuities). I. Rus (maximum principles for elliptic systems). and on asymptotic XII properties of solutions of evolution equations (R Latcu and M.Megan. R Luca and R Morozanu. R Faure). 2 -The controllabillty of Inflnlte dimensional and distributed parameter systems with the contribution of P. Grisvard (singularities and exact controllability for hyperbolic systems). G. Geymonat. P. Loreti and V. Valente (exact controllability of a shallow shell model). C.
R 2,015.00

Distributed Computer and Communication Networks
This book constitutes the refereed proceedings of the 20th International Conference on Distributed and Computer and Communication Networks, DCCN 2017, held in Moscow, Russia, in September 2017.The 39 full papers and the two short papers were carefully reviewed and selected from 176 submissions. The papers cover the following topics: computer and communication networks architecture optimization; control in computer and communication networks; performance and QoS/QoE evaluation in wireless networks; analytical modeling and simulation of next-generation communications systems; queueing theory and reliability theory applications in computer networks; wireless 4G/5G networks, cm- and mm-wave radio technologies; RFID technology and its application in intellectual transportation networks; Internet of Things, wearables, and applications of distributed information systems; probabilistic and statistical models in information systems; mathematical modeling of high-tech systems; mathematical modeling and control problems; distributed and cloud computing systems, big data analytics.
R 2,205.05

Constrained Global Optimization: Algorithms and Applications
Global optimization is concerned with the characterization and computation of global minima or maxima of nonlinear functions. Such problems are widespread in mathematical modeling of real world systems for a very broad range of applications. The applications include economies of scale, fixed charges, allocation and location problems, quadratic assignment and a number of other combinatorial optimization problems. More recently it has been shown that certain aspects of VLSI chip design and database problems can be formulated as constrained global optimization problems with a quadratic objective function. Although standard nonlinear programming algorithms will usually obtain a local minimum to the problem , such a local minimum will only be global when certain conditions are satisfied (such as f and K being convex).
R 1,532.85

Modeling and Optimization: Theory and Applications
This volume contains a selection of contributions that were presented at the Modeling and Optimization: Theory and Applications Conference (MOPTA) held at Lehigh University in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, USA on August 18-20, 2010. The conference brought together a diverse group of researchers and practitioners, working on both theoretical and practical aspects of continuous or discrete optimization. Topics presented included algorithms for solving convex, network, mixed-integer, nonlinear, and global optimization problems, and addressed the application of optimization techniques in finance, logistics, health, and other important fields. The contributions contained in this volume represent a sample of these topics and applications and illustrate the broad diversity of ideas discussed at the meeting.
R 4,244.13

Convexification and Global Optimization in Continuous and Mixed-Integer Nonlinear Programming
Interest in constrained optimization originated with the simple linear pro gramming model since it was practical and perhaps the only computationally tractable model at the time. Constrained linear optimization models were soon adopted in numerous application areas and are perhaps the most widely used mathematical models in operations research and management science at the time of this writing. Modelers have, however, found the assumption of linearity to be overly restrictive in expressing the real-world phenomena and problems in economics, finance, business, communication, engineering design, computational biology, and other areas that frequently demand the use of nonlinear expressions and discrete variables in optimization models. Both of these extensions of the linear programming model are NP-hard, thus representing very challenging problems. On the brighter side, recent advances in algorithmic and computing technology make it possible to re visit these problems with the hope of solving practically relevant problems in reasonable amounts of computational time. Initial attempts at solving nonlinear programs concentrated on the de velopment of local optimization methods guaranteeing globality under the assumption of convexity. On the other hand, the integer programming liter ature has concentrated on the development of methods that ensure global optima. The aim of this book is to marry the advancements in solving nonlinear and integer programming models and to develop new results in the more general framework of mixed-integer nonlinear programs (MINLPs) with the goal of devising practically efficient global optimization algorithms for MINLPs.
R 6,034.20

4th Joint International Conference on Deep Learning, Big Data and Blockchain (DBB 2023)
This book constitutes refereed articles which present research work on new and emerging topics such as distributed ledger technology, blockchains and architectures, smart cities, machine learning and deep learning techniques and application areas such as flight pricing, energy demand and healthcare.The intended readership of the book include researchers, developers and practitioners in the areas of deep learning, big data and blockchains technologies and their applications.
R 8,178.35

Stochastic Optimization in Insurance
The main purpose of the book is to show how a viscosity approach can be used to tackle control problems in insurance. The problems covered are the maximization of survival probability as well as the maximization of dividends in the classical collective risk model. The authors consider the possibility of controlling the risk process by reinsurance as well as by investments. They show that optimal value functions are characterized as either the unique or the smallest viscosity solution of the associated Hamilton-Jacobi-Bellman equation; they also study the structure of the optimal strategies and show how to find them.The viscosity approach was widely used in control problems related to mathematical finance but until quite recently it was not used to solve control problems related to actuarial mathematical science. This book is designed to familiarize the reader on how to use this approach. The intended audience is graduate students as well as researchers in this area.
R 2,015.00

Algorithms for Continuous Optimization
The NATO Advanced Study Institute on "Algorithms for continuous optimiza tion: the state of the art" was held September 5-18, 1993, at II Ciocco, Barga, Italy. It was attended by 75 students (among them many well known specialists in optimiza tion) from the following countries: Belgium, Brasil, Canada, China, Czech Republic, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Italy, Poland, Portugal, Rumania, Spain, Turkey, UK, USA, Venezuela. The lectures were given by 17 well known specialists in the field, from Brasil, China, Germany, Italy, Portugal, Russia, Sweden, UK, USA. Solving continuous optimization problems is a fundamental task in computational mathematics for applications in areas of engineering, economics, chemistry, biology and so on. Most real problems are nonlinear and can be of quite large size. Devel oping efficient algorithms for continuous optimization has been an important field of research in the last 30 years, with much additional impetus provided in the last decade by the availability of very fast and parallel computers. Techniques, like the simplex method, that were already considered fully developed thirty years ago have been thoroughly revised and enormously improved. The aim of this ASI was to present the state of the art in this field. While not all important aspects could be covered in the fifty hours of lectures (for instance multiob jective optimization had to be skipped), we believe that most important topics were presented, many of them by scientists who greatly contributed to their development.
R 1,602.20

New Challenges in Distributed Information Filtering and Retrieval
This volume focuses on new challenges in distributed Information Filtering and Retrieval. It collects invited chapters and extended research contributions from the DART 2011 Workshop, held in Palermo (Italy), on September 2011, and co-located with the XII International Conference of the Italian Association on Artificial Intelligence. The main focus of DART was to discuss and compare suitable novel solutions based on intelligent techniques and applied to real-world applications.The chapters of this book present a comprehensive review of related works and state of the art. Authors, both practitioners and researchers, shared their results in several topics such as "Multi-Agent Systems", "Natural Language Processing", "Automatic Advertisement", "Customer Interaction Analytics", "Opinion Mining".
R 3,087.79

Quasiconvex Optimization and Location Theory
grams of which the objective is given by the ratio of a convex by a positive (over a convex domain) concave function. As observed by Sniedovich (Ref. [102, 103]) most of the properties of fractional pro grams could be found in other programs, given that the objective function could be written as a particular composition of functions. He called this new field C programming, standing for composite concave programming. In his seminal book on dynamic programming (Ref. [104]), Sniedovich shows how the study of such com positions can help tackling non-separable dynamic programs that otherwise would defeat solution. Barros and Frenk (Ref. [9]) developed a cutting plane algorithm capable of optimizing C-programs. More recently, this algorithm has been used by Carrizosa and Plastria to solve a global optimization problem in facility location (Ref. [16]). The distinction between global optimization problems (Ref. [54]) and generalized convex problems can sometimes be hard to establish. That is exactly the reason why so much effort has been placed into finding an exhaustive classification of the different weak forms of convexity, establishing a new definition just to satisfy some desirable property in the most general way possible. This book does not aim at all the subtleties of the different generalizations of convexity, but concentrates on the most general of them all, quasiconvex programming. Chapter 5 shows clearly where the real difficulties appear.
R 3,028.21


Optimization and Operations Research
The variable metric algorithm is widely recognised as one of the most efficient ways of solving the following problem:- Locate x* a local minimum point n ( 1) of f(x) x E R Considerable attention has been given to the study of the convergence prop- ties of this algorithm especially for the case where analytic expressions are avai- ble for the derivatives g. = af/ax. i 1 ••• n • (2) ~ ~ In particular we shall mention the results of Wolfe (1969) and Powell (1972), (1975). Wolfe established general conditions under which a descent algorithm will converge to a stationary point and Powell showed that two particular very efficient algorithms that cannot be shown to satisfy \,olfe's conditions do in fact converge to the minimum of convex functions under certain conditions. These results will be st- ed more completely in Section 2. In most practical problems analytic expressions for the gradient vector g (Equ. 2) are not available and numerical derivatives are subject to truncation error. In Section 3 we shall consider the effects of these errors on Wolfe's convergent prop- ties and will discuss possible modifications of the algorithms to make them reliable in these circumstances. The effects of rounding error are considered in Section 4, whilst in Section 5 these thoughts are extended to include the case of on-line fu- tion minimisation where each function evaluation is subject to random noise.
R 2,015.00

Open Distance Learning
Motivational and social aspects as interactions among teachers and students are essential for a successful educational process in an open distance learning (ODL) environment, and the goal of this book is to develop an interactive model to manage motivation between the participants of the learning process. The book deals with the important and topical problem of e-learning, closely connected with the use of modern information technologies in education. The focus is on developing an information management system for supporting the distance learning process in colleges and universities in the context of steadily expanding information technologies. On the basis of exiting standards (SCORM, etc.) as well as information systems and platforms (e.g., Moodle, etc.), the author proposes a coherent and original concept of modelling three ODL subprocesses: (1) an ontological model (how to represent the structure of didactic materials), (2) a motivation and collaboration model (how to motivate project process participants) and (3) a simulation model (how to realise the learning/project process). The proposed models constitute a theoretical formalization of a new situation in which a teacher and students are obligated to elaborate on didactic material repository content in accordance with the requirements of acquired competencies. A mathematical method based on game theory and simulation is suggested. The kind of educational system represented in the book can be used as a model of open distance learning aimed at active behaviour of students and teachers in not only the development of knowledge but also the acquiring of competencies.
R 5,493.00

Distributed Computing
This book constitutes the refereed proceedings of the 26th International Symposium on Distributed Computing, DISC 2012, held in Salvador, Brazil, in October 2012. The 27 revised full papers presented together with 24 brief announcements were carefully reviewed and selected from 119 submissions. The papers are organized in topical sections on shared memory, mobile agents and overlay networks, wireless and multiple access channel networks, dynamic networks, distributed graph algorithms, wireless and loosely connected networks, robots, and lower bounds and separation.
R 2,200.92

R 3,377.59

Mathematical Optimization Theory and Operations Research
This book constitutes the proceedings of the 19th International Conference on Mathematical Optimization Theory and Operations Research, MOTOR 2020, held in Novosibirsk, Russia, in July 2020. The 31 full papers presented in this volume were carefully reviewed and selected from 102 submissions. The papers are grouped in these topical sections: discrete optimization; mathematical programming; game theory; scheduling problem; heuristics and metaheuristics; and operational research applications.
R 2,207.40

Concepts of Combinatorial Optimization
Combinatorial optimization is a multidisciplinary scientific area, lying in the interface of three major scientific domains: mathematics, theoretical computer science and management. The three volumes of the Combinatorial Optimization series aim to cover a wide range of topics in this area. These topics also deal with fundamental notions and approaches as with several classical applications of combinatorial optimization. Concepts of Combinatorial Optimization, is divided into three parts: - On the complexity of combinatorial optimization problems, presenting basics about worst-case and randomized complexity; - Classical solution methods, presenting the two most-known methods for solving hard combinatorial optimization problems, that are Branch-and-Bound and Dynamic Programming; - Elements from mathematical programming, presenting fundamentals from mathematical programming based methods that are in the heart of Operations Research since the origins of this field.
R 6,218.00

Designing Distributed Learning Environments with Intelligent Software Agents
Designing Distributed Learning Environments with Intelligent Software Agents reports on the most recent, important advances in agent technologies for distributed learning. Several chapters will be devoted to various aspects of intelligent software agents in distributed learning, including the methodological and technical issues on where and how intelligent agents can contribute to meeting distributed learning needs today and tomorrow. It will benefit the Al (artificial intelligence) community and educational community in their research and development. It will propose some new and interesting research issues about developing distributed learning environments in the semantic Web age. In addition, the ideas presented in the book may also be applicable to other domains such as agent-supported Web services, distributed business process and resource integration, computer-supported collaborative work (CSCW) and e-commerce.
R 3,358.77

Combinatorial Optimization and Applications
The two-volume set LNCS 14461 and LNCS 14462 constitutes the refereed proceedings of the 17th International Conference on Combinatorial Optimization and Applications, COCOA 2023, held in Hawaii, HI, USA, during December 15–17, 2023. The 73 full papers included in the proceedings were carefully reviewed and selected from 117 submissions. They were organized in topical sections as follows: Part I: Optimization in graphs; scheduling; set-related optimization; applied optimization and algorithm; Graph planer and others;Part II: Modeling and algorithms; complexity and approximation; combinatorics and computing; optimization and algorithms; extreme graph and others; machine learning, blockchain and others.
R 3,544.19

Global Optimization in Action
In science, engineering and economics, decision problems are frequently modelled by optimizing the value of a (primary) objective function under stated feasibility constraints. In many cases of practical relevance, the optimization problem structure does not warrant the global optimality of local solutions; hence, it is natural to search for the globally best solution(s). Global Optimization in Action provides a comprehensive discussion of adaptive partition strategies to solve global optimization problems under very general structural requirements. A unified approach to numerous known algorithms makes possible straightforward generalizations and extensions, leading to efficient computer-based implementations. A considerable part of the book is devoted to applications, including some generic problems from numerical analysis, and several case studies in environmental systems analysis and management. The book is essentially self-contained and is based on the author's research, in cooperation (on applications) with a number of colleagues. Audience: Professors, students, researchers and other professionals in the fields of operations research, management science, industrial and applied mathematics, computer science, engineering, economics and the environmental sciences.
R 4,687.49















































