A decomposition algorithm for limiting average Markov decision problems

We consider a Markov decision process (MDP) under average reward criterion. We investigate the decomposition of such MDP into smaller MDPs by using the strongly connected classes in the associated graph. Then, by introducing the associated levels, we construct an aggregation-disaggregation algorithm for the computation of an optimal strategy for the original MDP.     

Metal surface dipole moment and work function in the linear potential model

Summary Jellium metal surface properties such as the surface dipole barrier and work function are studied in the linear potential approximation to the effective potential at the surface. The metal surface position and field strength are determined respectively by the requirement of overall charge neutrality and the constraintst on the electrostatic potential by the Budd-Vannimenus theorem. The calculations are primarily analytic and these properties are given in terms of the universal function of the field strength. The results obtained employing the Ceperley-Alder expression for the correlation energy closely approximate those of Lang and Kohn.     

Dewatering of crude oil emulsions 2. Interfacial properties of the asphaltic constituents of crude oil

The importance of the interfacial rheology in determining the stability of water-in-Buchan crude oil emulsions has been demonstrated in part 1 of this series of papers (R.A. Mohammed, A.I. Bailey, P.F. Luckham and S.E. Taylor, Colloids Surfaces A: Physicochem. Eng. Aspects, 80(1993)223). In part 2, interfacial tensions of crude oil, and solutions of asphaltenes and resins in a model oil have been investigated. Surface pressure vs. area (Π—A) curves of monolayers of asphaltenes, resins and their mixtures have been established. In its dependence on the ratio of resins to asphaltenes, the pseudostatic dilatational modulus has high values for low resin-to-asphaltene ratios and low values for high resin-to-asphaltene ratios. This is expected to throw light on the cause of the enhanced stability of water-in-crude oil emulsions.     

Transacetalisation de triols a partir du dimethoxymethane. Selectivite et applications synthetiques

The LiBr assisted/acid catalyzed transacetalation of triols from DMM affords a highly selective method for the synthesis of hydroxy compounds bearing a dioxane ring. These compounds might further conveniently be alkylated by phase transfer catalyzis.     

Synthesis and biological screening of 7-hydroxy-4-methyl-2H-chromen-2-one, 7-hydroxy-4,5-dimethyl-2H-chromen-2-one and their some derivatives

7-Hydroxy-4-methyl-2H-chromen-2-one (2), 7-hydroxy-4,5-dimethyl-2H-chromen-2-one (15) and their some derivatives were synthesized for exploring selected biological screening. The compounds 9 and 13 had shown high degree of cytotoxic activity. Three compound 9, 10 and 13 showed high degree of bactericidal activity amongst the present series.