Genetic algorithms for numerical optimization

Genetic algorithms (GAs) are stochastic adaptive algorithms whose search method is based on simulation of natural genetic inheritance and Darwinian striving for survival. They can be used to find approximate solutions to numerical optimization problems in cases where finding the exact optimum is prohibitively expensive, or where no algorithm is known. However, such applications can encounter problems that sometimes delay, if not prevent, finding the optimal solutions with desired precision. In this paper we describe applications of GAs to numerical optimization, present three novel ways to handle such problems, and give some experimental results.     

From words to deeds: Health service reform in Poland

After two years of fundamental political changes in Poland a lot of enthusiasm has faded. The country is on its way towards a market economy but the process of transformation is proving more difficult than expected. The social sector in particular is being hampered. Budgetary cuts undermine any feeling of security. Society seems to be entirely unprepared to accept changes that lead to a reduction of social packages offered by former regimes. Hopes associated with 5the outcome of health care reform were aroused by the length of time taken to conceptualize the main proposals. The process started as early as 1980 and was supposed steadily to yield easier access and higher technology. When it became clear that this was unrealistic because of general economic crises, the pace of health service reform was slowed down. It was a painful process to abandon illusion. Now it is becoming accepted that the reform is to improve the elementary effectiveness and efficiency of health services. Thanks to this breakthrough it has been possible to make and put into practice two major decisions: the regional integration of health services, and the new law on health care institutions.     

Reducing avian mortality from noise barrier collisions along an urban roadway

Urban Ecosystems - Anthropogenic changes, including road network, have strongly influenced biodiversity of Europe. For the past 100 years road networks have become a conspicuous part of...