Based on a lecture course given at Chalmers University of Technology, this 2002 book is ideal for advanced undergraduate or beginning graduate students. The author first develops the necessary background in probability theory and Markov chains before applying it to study a range of randomized algorithms with important applications in optimization and other problems in computing. Amongst the algorithms covered are the Markov chain Monte Carlo method, simulated annealing, and the recent Propp-Wilson algorithm. This book will appeal not only to mathematicians, but also to students of statistics and computer science. The subject matter is introduced in a clear and concise fashion and the numerous exercises included will help students to deepen their understanding.

A self-contained treatment of finite Markov chains and processes, this text covers both theory and applications. Author Marius Iosifescu, vice president of the Romanian Academy and director of its Center for Mathematical Statistics, begins with a review of relevant aspects of probability theory and linear algebra. Experienced readers may start with the second chapter, a treatment of fundamental concepts of homogeneous finite Markov chain theory that offers examples of applicable models. The text advances to studies of two basic types of homogeneous finite Markov chains: absorbing and ergodic chains. A complete study of the general properties of homogeneous chains follows. Succeeding chapters examine the fundamental role of homogeneous infinite Markov chains in mathematical modeling employed in the fields of psychology and genetics; the basics of nonhomogeneous finite Markov chain theory; and a study of Markovian dependence in continuous time, which constitutes an elementary introduction to the study of continuous parameter stochastic processes.

Presents a number of new and potentially useful self-learning (adaptive) control algorithms and theoretical as well as practical results for both unconstrained and constrained finite Markov chains-efficiently processing new information by adjusting the control strategies directly or indirectly.

Besides the investigation of general chains the book contains chapters which are concerned with eigenvalue techniques, conductance, stopping times, the strong Markov property, couplings, strong uniform times, Markov chains on arbitrary finite groups (including a crash-course in harmonic analysis), random generation and counting, Markov random fields, Gibbs fields, the Metropolis sampler, and simulated annealing. With 170 exercises.

Primarily an introduction to the theory of stochastic processes at the undergraduate or beginning graduate level, the primary objective of this book is to initiate students in the art of stochastic modelling. However it is motivated by significant applications and progressively brings the student to the borders of contemporary research. Examples are from a wide range of domains, including operations research and electrical engineering. Researchers and students in these areas as well as in physics, biology and the social sciences will find this book of interest.

Mathematical Aspects of Mixing Times in Markov Chains is a comprehensive, well-written review of the subject that will be of interest to researchers and students in computer and mathematical sciences.