ROBIST: Robust Optimization by Iterative Scenario Sampling and Statistical Testing

In this paper, we propose ROBIST, a simple, yet effective, data-driven algorithm for optimization under parametric uncertainty. The algorithm first generates solutions in an iterative manner by sampling and optimizing over a relatively small set of scenarios. Then, using statistical testing, the robustness of the solutions is evaluated, which can be done with a much … Read more

A robust approach to food aid supply chains

One of the great challenges in reaching zero hunger is to secure the availability of sufficient nourishment in the worst of times such as humanitarian emergencies. Food aid operations during a humanitarian emergency are typically subject to a high level of uncertainty. In this paper, we develop a novel robust optimization model for food aid … Read more

Evaluation of Political Redistricting in Japan by Optimization and Enumeration

The political/electoral districting problem for the single-seat constituency system is a problem of decomposing a graph into connected components of a given number of seats under several conditions and objectives. We evaluate and analyze the current division of single-seat constituencies for the House of Representatives using optimization and enumeration. The objective function is to minimize … Read more

Deep learning and hyperparameter optimization for assessing one’s eligibility for a subcutaneous implantable cardioverter-defibrillator

In cardiology, it is standard for patients suffering from ventricular arrhythmias (the leading cause of sudden cardiac death) belonging to high risk populations to be treated using Subcutaneous Implantable Cardioverter-Defibrillators (S-ICDs). S-ICDs carry a risk of so-called T Wave Over Sensing (TWOS), which can lead to inappropriate shocks with an inherent health risk. For this … Read more

Source Detection on Graphs

Spreading processes on networks (graphs) have become ubiquitous in modern society with prominent examples such as infections, rumors, excitations, contaminations, or disturbances. Finding the source of such processes based on observations is important and difficult. We abstract the problem mathematically as an optimization problem on graphs. For the deterministic setting we make connections to the … Read more

Generalizations of doubly nonnegative cones and their comparison

In this study, we examine the various extensions of the doubly nonnegative (DNN) cone, frequently used in completely positive programming (CPP) to achieve a tighter relaxation than the positive semidefinite cone. To provide tighter relaxation for generalized CPP (GCPP) than the positive semidefinite cone, inner-approximation hierarchies of the generalized copositive cone are exploited to obtain … Read more

Personal Shopper Systems in Last-Mile Logistics

This paper explores the logistics operations of instant grocery delivery services. We specifically concentrate on two widely adopted strategies: Personal Shopper Systems (PSS) and Inventory Owned Delivery Systems (IOD). In the PSS, couriers visit affiliated brick and mortar stores in the delivery area to pick and purchase ordered products and deliver them to customers. Whereas … Read more

Time-series aggregation for the optimization of energy systems: goals, challenges, approaches, and opportunities

The rising significance of renewable energy increases the importance of representing time-varying input data in energy system optimization studies. Time-series aggregation, which reduces temporal model complexity, has emerged in recent years to address this challenge. We provide a comprehensive review of time-series aggregation for the optimization of energy systems. We show where time series affect … Read more

Joint Routing of Conventional and Range-Extended Electric Vehicles in a Large Metropolitan Network

Range-extended electric vehicles combine the higher efficiency and environmental benefits of battery-powered electric motors with the longer mileage and autonomy of conventional internal combustion engines. This combination is particularly advantageous for time-constrained delivery routing in dense urban areas, where battery recharging along routes can be too time-consuming to economically justify the use of all-electric vehicles. … Read more

Optimisation of Step-free access Infrastructure in London Underground considering Borough Economic Inequality

Public transport is the enabler of social and economic development, as it allows the movement of people and provides access to opportunities that otherwise might have been unattainable. Access to public transport is a key aspect of social equity, with step-free access improving the inclusivity of the transport network in particular for mobility impaired population … Read more