Minimizing the number of machines for minimum length schedules

In this paper, we present a new objective function for scheduling on parallel machines: minimizing the number of machines for schedules of minimum length. We study its complexity and we prove the NP-completeness of this problem, even if there is no precedences or for unitary execution times. We propose several polynomial algorithms for various particular cases.     

Batch processing with interval graph compatibilities between tasks

We analyze batch-scheduling problems that arise in connection with certain industrial applications. The models concern processing on a single max-batch machine with the additional feature that the tasks of the same batch have to be compatible. Compatibility is a symmetric binary relation—the compatible pairs are described with an undirected “compatibility graph”, which is often an interval graph according to some natural practical conditions that we present. We consider several models with varying batch capacities, processing times or compatibility graphs. We summarize known results, and present a min-max formula and polynomial time algorithms.     

A New Approach to the {\ast} -Genvalue Equation

We show that the eigenvalues and eigenfunctions of the star-genvalue equation can be completely expressed in terms of the corresponding eigenvalue problem for the quantum Hamiltonian. Our methods make use of a Weyl-type representation of the star-product and of the properties of the cross-Wigner transform, which appears as an intertwining operator.     

Rheological properties of fresh and cryopreserved human arteries tested in vitro

Cryopreservation is widely used to preserve blood vessels for a while but is controversially suspected to affect the mechanical behavior of these allografts. The aim of this study was to determine whether differences in the three-dimensional mechanical behavior exist or not between fresh and cryopreserved arteries. Using a previously developed experimental system, in vitro inflation tests were performed on twenty segments of human fresh and cryopreserved arteries, in static conditions. Opening angles were also measured from images of rings in zero-stress state. The initial reference state was chosen as the unloaded state and tests were performed on specimens stretched at natural “in vivo” length. Mechanical measures calculated are “natural” (Hencky) strains (finite deformations), “true” (Cauchy) stresses in radial, circumferential, and longitudinal directions as well as strain energy per unit volume. Tangent moduli are derived from radial and circumferential stress-strain characteristics using non-linear curve fitting. Values of incremental and pressure-strain elastic parameters, wall stiffness, and compliance per unit length are also calculated. Results are presented in terms of characteristics of stresses and strains in the three directions, axial force, tangent moduli vs strains or stresses, and energy per unit volume, for both types of artery, with reference to transmural pressure. Detailed numerical results are given at mean transmural pressure or in the physiological range. Significant differences are indicated by statistic Student T-tests. Results obtained show that significant differences exist between rheological properties of fresh and cryopreserved segments of human artery. Strains, stresses, axial force, strain energy, and wall stiffness values highlight those differences whereas elastic parameters, compliance, and opening angle do not. The usefulness of some parameters to compare the mechanical behavior existing between fresh and cryopreserved arteries is therefore underlined. Received: 3 January 2000 Revision received: 12 April 2000 Accepted: 8 May 2000     

Energy levels of paramagnetic ions: Algebra. IV. The case of fN ions in cubical symmetry

The symmetry-adapted formalism and the weak-field model described in the first three papers of this series are applied to the case of a configuration nf^N in octahedral symmetry. In this case, the latter weakfield model is restricted to a 30-parameter model which accounts for isotropic and anisotropic Coulomb (repulsion) interactions, isotropic and anisotropic spin-orbit interactions, and crystal-field interactions. A comparison between this 30-parameter weak-field model and a 33-parameter strong-field model is established. Equivalence between these two models requires three constraint relations to be satisfied for some strong-field parameters. The three relations are examined on various viewpoints.     

Untersuchung von Seifen

Ohne Zusammenfassung     

Die gleichzeitige Bestimmung von Methylalkohol und Formaldehyd in sehr kleinen Mengen in ein und derselben L?sung

Ohne Zusammenfassung     

Les dimensions d'un ensemble abstrait

Sans résumé