13 research outputs found
A convex analysis approach for convex multiplicative programming
Global optimization problems involving the minimization of a product of convex functions on a convex set are addressed in this paper. Elements of convex analysis are used to obtain a suitable representation of the convex multiplicative problem in the outcome space, where its global solution is reduced to the solution of a sequence of quasiconcave minimizations on polytopes. Computational experiments illustrate the performance of the global optimization algorithm proposed.41457959
Bi-objective optimisation with multiple decision-makers: a convex approach to attain majority solutions
An interactive approach for solving bi-objective optimisation problems with multiple decision-makers in a context where the decisions are made via the strict majority voting rule is proposed. An adequate use of projection and decomposition techniques leads to a hierarchical algorithm in which the upper level is represented by a relaxed version of the bi-objective problem in the objective space. The feasibility of the partial consensus obtained in the upper (decision) level by the strict majority voting rule is tested in the lower (analysis) level of the algorithm. Some properties of the relaxed bi-objective problem allow that different preference structures of the decision-makers can be represented by appropriate multiobjective methods. The paper includes numerical examples that illustrate the characteristics of the approach proposed.51333334
Microepidemia familiar por Trichophyton tonsurans Trichophyton tonsurans in a family microepidemic
Trichophyton tonsurans é um fungo dermatófito antropofÃlico de alta transmissibilidade que invade tecidos queratinizados. Relatamos um caso de microepidemia familiar causada por esse dermatófito no qual, apesar das ótimas condições de higiene, o fungo se manteve viável por vários anos, disseminando-se para todos os membros da famÃlia. A hipótese de que estivesse sendo mantido na residência da famÃlia foi confirmada após análise de amostras do domicÃlio, em que foram isoladas e identificadas culturas puras do fungo. Após o diagnóstico, a residência foi desinfetada e todos os membros da famÃlia receberam tratamento oral concomitantemente.<br>Trichophyton tonsurans is a highly transmissible anthropophilic dermatophyte fungus, which invades keratinized tissues. This study reports a case of family microepidemic caused by this dermato phyte. Despite their excellent hygiene conditions, it remained active for several years, spreading to all family members. The hypothesis that the fungus was being kept alive in the family home was confirmed after samples collected from it were analyzed. Pure cultures of the fungus were isolated and identified. After diagnosis, the house was disinfected with concomitant oral treatment for all family members
Fungal agents in different anatomical sites in Public Health Services in Cuiabá, state of Mato Grosso, Brazil
INTRODUCTION: A contribution to the regional epidemiological profile of the most common fungal agents in Public Health Services in Cuiabá, state of Mato Grosso, including university hospitals and polyclinics. METHODS: Clinical specimens (n = 1,496) from 1,078 patients were collected, submitted to direct mycological exam (potash or stick tape method) and cultured in specific mediums. Dermatophytic and non-dermatophytic agents were identified according to micromorphology (Ridell technique). RESULTS: The majority of the 1,496 specimens were skin (n = 985) and nail exams (n = 472). Of the 800 positive cultures, 246 (30.8%) corresponded to dermatophytes and 336 (42%) to yeasts of the genus Candida, 190 (23.7%) to other yeasts, 27 (3.4%) to non-dermatophytic filamentous fungi and one (0.1%) the agent of subcutaneous mycosis. Lesions considered primary occurred in greater numbers (59.5%) than recurrent lesions (37.4%), with a greater concentration of positivity occurring on the arms and legs. CONCLUSIONS: Comorbidities, allergies and diabetes mellitus were conditions associated with greater positivity in direct mycological exams and cultures. Positive culture was considered a definitive diagnosis of fungal infection and confirmed 47.8% of diagnostic hypotheses
Forecasting: theory and practice
Forecasting has always been at the forefront of decision making and planning.
The uncertainty that surrounds the future is both exciting and challenging,
with individuals and organisations seeking to minimise risks and maximise
utilities. The large number of forecasting applications calls for a diverse set
of forecasting methods to tackle real-life challenges. This article provides a
non-systematic review of the theory and the practice of forecasting. We provide
an overview of a wide range of theoretical, state-of-the-art models, methods,
principles, and approaches to prepare, produce, organise, and evaluate
forecasts. We then demonstrate how such theoretical concepts are applied in a
variety of real-life contexts.
We do not claim that this review is an exhaustive list of methods and
applications. However, we wish that our encyclopedic presentation will offer a
point of reference for the rich work that has been undertaken over the last
decades, with some key insights for the future of forecasting theory and
practice. Given its encyclopedic nature, the intended mode of reading is
non-linear. We offer cross-references to allow the readers to navigate through
the various topics. We complement the theoretical concepts and applications
covered by large lists of free or open-source software implementations and
publicly-available databases