On asymptotically periodic solutions of linear discrete Volterra equations

We show that a class of linear nonconvolution discrete Volterra equations has asymptotically periodic solutions. We also examine an example for which the calculations can be done explicitly. The results are established using theorems on the boundedness and convergence to a finite limit of solutions of linear discrete Volterra equations

Design degrees of freedom and mechanisms for complexity

We develop a discrete spectrum of percolation forest fire models characterized by increasing design degrees of freedom (DDOF’s). The DDOF’s are tuned to optimize the yield of trees after a single spark. In the limit of a single DDOF, the model is tuned to the critical density. Additional DDOF’s allow for increasingly refined spatial patterns, associated with the cellular structures seen in highly optimized tolerance (HOT). The spectrum of models provides a clear illustration of the contrast between criticality and HOT, as well as a concrete quantitative example of how a sequence of robustness tradeoffs naturally arises when increasingly complex systems are developed through additional layers of design. Such tradeoffs are familiar in engineering and biology and are a central aspect of the complex systems that can be characterized as HOT

Subexponential solutions of scalar linear integro-differential equations with delay

This paper considers the asymptotic behaviour of solutions of the scalar linear convolution integro-differential equation with delay x0(t) = − n Xi=1 aix(t − i) + Z t 0 k(t − s)x(s) ds, t > 0, x(t) = (t), − t 0, where = max1in i. In this problem, k is a non-negative function in L1(0,1)\C[0,1), i 0, ai > 0 and is a continuous function on [−, 0]. The kernel k is subexponential in the sense that limt!1 k(t)(t)−1 > 0 where is a positive subexponential function. A consequence of this is that k(t)et ! 1 as t ! 1 for every > 0

Optimal monopoly investment and capacity utilization under random demand

Unique value-maximizing programs of irreversible capacity investment and capacity utilization are described and shown to exist under general conditions for monopolist exhibiting capital adjustment costs and serving random consumer demand for a nondurable good over an infinite horizon. Stationary properties of these programs are then fully characterized under the assumption of serially independent demand disturbances. Optimal monopoly behavior in this case includes acquisition of a constant and positive level of capacity, the maintenance of a positive expected value of excess capacity in each period, and an asymmetrical response of price to unanticipated fluctuations in consumer demand. Under a general form of Markovian demand, the effect of uncertainty on irreversible capacity investment is also described in terms of the discounted flow of expected revenue accruing to the marginal unit of existing capacity and the option value of deferring the acquisition of additional capital. The option value of deferring such acquisition, created by the irreversibility of capacity investment, is characterized directly in terms of the value function of the firm, and is then shown to be zero in a stationary equilibrium with serially independent demand disturbances. The response of investment to increase demand uncertainty depends, as a result, directly on the properties of the marginal revenue product of capital. A non-negative response of optimal capacity to increased uncertainty in market demand is demonstrated for a general class of aggregate consumer preferences.Industrial capacity