A Distributed Hybrid Algorithm for the Graph Coloring Problem

We propose a multi-agent based Distributed Hybrid algorithm for the Graph Coloring Problem (DH-GCP). DH-GCP applies a tabu search procedure with two different neighborhood structures for its intensification. To diversify the search into unexplored promising regions, two crossover operators and two types of perturbation moves are performed. All these search components are managed by a multi-agent model which uses reinforcement learning for decision making. The performance of the proposed algorithm is evaluated on well-known DIMACS benchmark instances

A multi-agent based optimization method applied to the quadratic assignment problem

Inspired by the idea of interacting intelligent agents of a multi-agent system, we introduce a multi-agent based optimization method applied to the quadratic assignment problem (MAOM-QAP). MAOM-QAP is composed of several agents (decision-maker agent, local search agents, crossover agents and perturbation agent) which are designed for the purpose of intensified and diversified search activities. With the help of a reinforcement learning mechanism, MAOM-QAP dynamically decides the most suitable agent to activate according to the state of search process. Under the coordination of the decision-maker agent, the other agents fulfill dedicated search tasks. The performance of the proposed approach is assessed on the set of well-known QAP benchmark instances, and compared with the most advanced QAP methods of the literature. The ideas proposed in this work are rather general and could be adapted to other optimization tasks. This work opens the way for designing new distributed intelligent systems for tackling other complex search problems

Hypoxemic Bronchiolitis Related to Major Histocompatibility Class II Deficiency

Major histocompatibility complex class II expression deficiency is an autosomal recessive primary combined immunodeficiency. The prevalence of this deficiency is the highest in Mediterranean areas, especially North Africa. Early diagnosis is essential due to high mortality in the first 2 years of life. Prognosis is very poor when bone marrow transplantation cannot be performed. We report the case of an infant with major histocompatibility complex class II expression deficiency revealed by hypoxemic bronchiolitis due to Pneumocystis jiroveci