A Study in function optimization with the breeder genetic algorithm

Optimization is concerned with the finding of global optima (hence the name) of problems that can be cast in the form of a function of several variables and constraints thereof. Among the searching methods, {em Evolutionary Algorithms} have been shown to be adaptable and general tools that have often outperformed traditional {em ad hoc} methods. The {em Breeder Genetic Algorithm} (BGA) combines a direct representation with a nice conceptual simplicity. This work contains a general description of the algorithm and a detailed study on a collection of function optimization tasks. The results show that the BGA is a powerful and reliable searching algorithm. The main discussion concerns the choice of genetic operators and their parameters, among which the family of Extended Intermediate Recombination (EIR) is shown to stand out. In addition, a simple method to dynamically adjust the operator is outlined and found to greatly improve on the already excellent overall performance of the algorithm.Postprint (published version

Knowledge Management and the Effectiveness of Innovation Outcomes: The Role of Cultural Barriers

In this paper we propose a conceptual model to test the moderating effect of cultural barriers on the link between knowledge strategies and innovation using healthcare organizations. In order to study the tie (knowledge-innovation) and the effects of the moderating variable (cultural barriers), the resource-based view is followed. It has been generally accepted that both explicit and tacit knowledge play a basic role in organizational innovation. However, there are few research works that study the relationship between knowledge management strategy and the effectiveness of the innovation process. On the other hand, the extant research on this relationship has yielded inconclusive results. Our paper revisits this research topic based on data of knowledge management strategy, Knowledge base, cultural barriers and innovation outcomes from a sample of Spanish hospitals

The calculator as an instrument of validation of mathematical knowledge: a case study (extended version)

En este trabajo se describe detalladamente una experiencia llevada a cabo con profesores de matemáticas en formación, sobre el papel que pueden desarrollar las nuevas tecnologías para llevar a cabo procesos de demostración y prueba en el aula de secundaria

Feature selection algorithms: a survey and experimental evaluation

In view of the substantial number of existing feature selection algorithms, the need arises to count on criteria that enables to adequately decide which algorithm to use in certain situations. This work reviews several fundamental algorithms found in the literature and assesses their performance in a controlled scenario. A scoring measure ranks the algorithms by taking into account the amount of relevance, irrelevance and redundance on sample data sets. This measure computes the degree of matching between the output given by the algorithm and the known optimal solution. Sample size effects are also studied.Postprint (published version