Heuristic Solution Methods for the Multilevel Generalized Assignment Problem

The multilevel generalized assignment problem is a problem of assigning agents to tasks where the agents can perform tasks at more than one efficiency level. A profit is associated with each assignment and the objective of the problem is profit maximization. Two heuristic solution methods are presented for the problem. The heuristics are developed from solution methods for the generalized assignment problem. One method uses a regret minimization approach whilst the other method uses a repair approach on a relaxation of the problem. The heuristics are able to solve moderately large instances of the problem rapidly and effectively. Procedures for deriving an upper bound on the solution of the problem are also described. On larger and harder instances of the problem one heuristic is particularly effective.     

Multiple image encryption using an aperture-modulated optical system

A multiple image cryptosystem based on different apertures in an optical set-up under a holographic arrangement is proposed. The system is a security architecture that uses different pupil aperture mask in the encoding lens to encrypt different images. Based on this approach multiple encryption is achieved by changing the pupil aperture arrangement of the optical system among exposures. In addition to the classical speckle phase mask, the geometrical parameters characterizing the apertures are introduced to increase the system security. Even when an illegal user steals the speckle phase mask, the system cannot be broken into without the correct pupil geometrical parameters. The experimental set-up is based on a volume photorefractive BSO crystal as storing device. Information retrieval is done via a phase conjugation operation. We also have to stress that the multiple storage under this scheme, is only possible with the help of the aperture mask. Simulation and experimental results are further introduced to verify the proposed method.     

Clifford Analysis Techniques for Spherical PDE

For a ? R\alpha \in \mathbf{R}, the class of a-\alpha -order spherical harmonic functions in an open set W í\Omega \subseteq S^n-1\mathbf{S}^{n-1}, H^a(W)H^{\alpha }(\Omega ) is defined as the C²-C^{2}-solutions of D_au=0\Delta _{\alpha }u=0; where D_a=D_s+a(n+a-2)\Delta _{\alpha }=\Delta _{s}+\alpha (n+\alpha -2) is the spherical Laplace--Beltrami operator of order a\alpha and D_s\Delta _{s} is the radially independent part of the Laplace operator. We obtain a Green's integral formula for the functions in H^a(W)H^{\alpha }(\Omega ) with kernel expressed as a Gegenbauer function. As generalizations, higher order spherical iterated Dirac operators are defined in a polynomial form. Integral representations of the null solutions to these operators and an intertwining formula relating these operators on the sphere and their analogues in Euclidean space are presented.     

Cosmic dust and our origins

The small solid particles in the space between the stars provide the surfaces for the production of many simple and complex molecules. Processes involving the effects of ultraviolet irradiation of the thin (hundredth micron) mantles are shown to produce a wide range of molecules and ions also seen in comets. Some of the more complex ones inferred from laboratory experiments are expected to play an important role in the origin of life. An outline of the chemical evolution of interstellar dust as observed and as studied in the laboratory is presented. Observations of comets are shown to provide substantial evidence for their being fluffy aggregates of interstellar dust as it was in the protosolar nebula, i.e. the interstellar cloud which collapsed to form the solar system. The theory that comets may have brought the progenitors of life to the earth is summarized.     

Comparison of two models for managing reliability growth during product design

Relying on reliability growth testing to improve system designis neither usually effective nor efficient. Instead it is importantto design in reliability. This requires models to estimate reliabilitygrowth in the design that can be used to assess whether goalreliability will be achieved within the target timescale forthe design process. Many models have been developed for analysisof reliability growth on test, but there has been much lessattention given to reliability growth in design. This paperdescribes and compares two models: one motivated by the practicalengineering process; the other by extending the reasoning ofstatistical reliability growth modelling. Both models are referencedin the recently revised edition of international standard IEC61164. However, there has been no reported evaluation of theirproperties. Therefore, this paper explores the commonalitiesand differences between these models through an assessment oftheir logic and their application to an industrial example.Recommendations are given for the use of reliability growthmodels to aid management of the design process and to informproduct development.     

Derivation of fluorine-containing pyridine dicarboxylates. II. Elaboration at the 4-position

In response to the bio-activity found in fluorine-containing 4-alkyl-3, 5-pyridinedicarboxylates, a series of novel 4-substituted derivatives, not directly available by Hantzsch sequences, were prepared. Starting 4-alkylpyridines, 1 , were converted via enamine 2 to materials 3–8 . Derivatives 9–16 in turn were derived from aldehyde 3 , while acid derivatives 28–36 were prepared from 14 . Addition of oxygen, sulfur, and carbenoids effected conversion of 4-allylpyridine 16 to epoxy and cyclopropyl derivative 16–22 . A number of neighboring group effects were noted, including those forming the fused-ring systems 23-27 .     

cos πρ theorems for δ-subharmonic functions

For ϕ a δ-subharmonic function, sharp results are obtained that connectA(r, ϕ), B(r, ϕ) andT(r, ϕ), whereA(r, ϕ)=inf_|z|=r ϕ(z),B(r, ϕ)=sup_|z|=r ϕ(z), andT(r, ϕ) is the Nevanlinna characteristics.     

2‐Amino‐4‐chloro‐6‐[N‐methyl‐N‐(4‐methylphenyl)amino]pyrimidine: formation versus fragmentation of hydrogen‐bonded chains of edge‐fused R22(8) rings in 4,6‐disubstituted 2‐aminopyrimidines

Molecules of the title compound, C₁₂H₁₃ClN₄, are linked by two independent N—H...N hydrogen bonds into a chain of edge‐fused R₂²(8) rings. The significance of this study lies in its attempt to rationalize the patterns of supramolecular aggregation in the title compound and in a range of analogous 4,6‐disubstituted 2‐aminopyrimidines.