Solving the G-problems in less than 500 iterations: Improved efficient constrained optimization by surrogate modeling and adaptive parameter control

Constrained optimization of high-dimensional numerical problems plays an important role in many scientific and industrial applications. Function evaluations in many industrial applications are severely limited and no analytical information about objective function and constraint functions is available. For such expensive black-box optimization tasks, the constraint optimization algorithm COBRA was proposed, making use of RBF surrogate modeling for both the objective and the constraint functions. COBRA has shown remarkable success in solving reliably complex benchmark problems in less than 500 function evaluations. Unfortunately, COBRA requires careful adjustment of parameters in order to do so. In this work we present a new self-adjusting algorithm SACOBRA, which is based on COBRA and capable to achieve high-quality results with very few function evaluations and no parameter tuning. It is shown with the help of performance profiles on a set of benchmark problems (G-problems, MOPTA08) that SACOBRA consistently outperforms any COBRA algorithm with fixed parameter setting. We analyze the importance of the several new elements in SACOBRA and find that each element of SACOBRA plays a role to boost up the overall optimization performance. We discuss the reasons behind and get in this way a better understanding of high-quality RBF surrogate modeling

Esg in venture capital: an in depth look at the performance of sustainable vc investments

The topic of sustainability in finance has evolved from a niche approach to a broadly recognized investment focus. But even though the mass market is aware of conscious possibilities of investing still a lot of misconceptions surround the topic. Especially regarding the aspect of performance, the common assumption is that it lacks behind traditional investment vehicles. In the Venture Capital space limited research regarding the topic has been conducted. Therefore, this master thesis is focused on analyzing the factor of performance regarding sustainable start up investments in comparison to the average VC investment and further elaborating on the rationale behind it

Experiential Learning at Its Finest

Postcard from Nick Konen, during the Linfield College Semester Abroad Program at Oslo and Akershus University College in Norwa

Training and Supporting Volunteer Mentors for Juvenile Offenders in Urban Gardening

This article summarizes 3 years of experience in training and supporting volunteer mentors for work with juvenile offenders in an urban gardening program. The program parameters are given, and the methods for selection, orientation, and training of volunteers are both described and commented upon