A logic language for combinatorial optimization

CHIP (Constraint Handling In Prolog) is a new logic programming language combining the declarative aspect of logic programming for stating search problems with the efficiency of constraint handling techniques for solving them. CHIP has been applied to many real-life problems in Operations Research and hardware design with an efficiency comparable to specific programs written in procedural languages. The main advantage of CHIP is the short development time of the programs and their great modifiability and extensibility. In this paper, we discuss the application of the finite domain part of CHIP to the solving of discrete combinatorial problems occurring in Operations Research. The basic mechanisms underlying CHIP are explained through simple examples. Solutions in CHIP of several real-life problems (e.g., cutting stock, warehouses location problems) are presented and compared with usual approaches, showing the versatility and the interest of the approach.     

Weighted norm inequalities,off-diagonal estimates and elliptic operators. Part IV: Riesz transforms on manifolds and weights

This is the fourth article of our series. Here, we study weighted norm inequalities for the Riesz transform of the Laplace–Beltrami operator on Riemannian manifolds and of subelliptic sum of squares on Lie groups, under the doubling volume property and Gaussian upper bounds.      

Humidity responsive asymmetric free-standing multilayered film

A humido-responsive free-standing film has been created using layer-by-layer assembly technique. Polyethylenimine (PEI) at high pH was assembled with poly(acrylic acid) (PAA) at low pH on a Teflon substrate to yield a micro-nanostructured surface that can be made superhydrophobic after being coated with a low surface energy compound. The resulting asymmetric free-standing film with one surface being superhydrophobic while the other is hydrophilic after detachment from the substrate can undergo reversible bending/unbending shape transitions when the environmental humidity is changed. The bending/unbending movement of the free-standing film can be ascribed to the different responses of these two surfaces to humidity.     

Microwave-assisted synthesis of d-glucuronic acid derivatives using cost-effective solid acid catalysts

Monomode microwave-assisted coupling of d-glucuronic acid with alcohols, in the presence of various impregnated acid catalysts, was successfully performed, affording in almost quantitative yields the corresponding monosubstituted β-d-glucofuranosidurono-6,3-lactones in less than 10 min at 85 °C. This study evidences the synergy of microwaves and impregnated acid catalysts as a fast and clean strategy in the field of carbohydrate chemistry.