David B Brown

Dynamic Programming (DP) provides a powerful framework for modeling complex decision problems where uncertainty is resolved and decisions are made over time. But it is difficult to scale to complex problems. Monte Carlo simulation methods, however, typically scale well, but typically do not provide a good way to identify an optimal policy or provide a performance bound. To address these restrictions, the authors review the information relaxation approach which works by reducing a complex stochastic DP to a series of scenario-specific deterministic optimization problems solved within a Monte Carlo simulation. Written in a tutorial style, the authors summarize the key ideas of information relaxation methods for stochastic DPs and demonstrate their use in several examples. They provide a “one-stop-shop” for researchers seeking to learn the key ideas and tools for using information relaxation methods. This book provides the reader with a comprehensive overview of a powerful technique for use by students, researchers and practitioners.

Understanding the sacred belief system of the Maya has historically been complex and confusing. This study reviews the BC Maya murals found at San Bartolo, the prolific inscriptions and bi-reliefs at Palenque and the enigmatic structural design at Teotihuacan to see what they have in common. From the in-depth research performed it is determined that the esoteric aspects that connect them all is...the Judeo-Christian gospel belief system. This tome provides detailed consideration of the imagery provided in artwork and structural design used in architecture to teach the fundamental tenants of the gospel to students who visited these sites anciently. This work is destined to be seminal to major changes that are about to take place in Central American archaeology and a long overdue rewriting of Western Civilization history.