Abstract
The increment in generation costs is one of the most important factors that characterizes the operation of insular power systems, and is related to the location of these systems and the type of fuel used to provide electricity. This situation motivates the integration of renewable generation at high rates, as well as energy storage systems (ESSs), to improve the utilization of these resources. In this paper, a new control strategy is presented for the day-ahead scheduling of insular power systems with a battery energy storage system. The method presented here incorporates the effects of the most relevant components such as thermal generators, wind power generation, power converter, charge controller and ESS, being integrated into the scheduling process of insular power systems as a new contribution to earlier studies. The results provided show a fuel saving of 2% and an improvement in the wind power use of 20%, which is significant.

Abstract
This paper addresses the lot-sizing and scheduling problem of pulp and paper mills involving multiple paper machines. The underlying multi-stage integrated production process considers the following critical units: continuous digester, intermediate stocks of pulp and liquor, multiple paper machines and a recovery line to treat by-products. This work presents a mixed integer programming (MIP) model to represent the problem, as well as a solution approach based on a customized genetic algorithm (GA) with an embedded residual linear programming model. Some GA tools are explored, including literature and new operators, a novel diversification process and other features. In particular, the diversification process uses a new allele frequency measure to change between diversification and intensification procedures. Computational results show the effectiveness of the method to solve relatively large instances of the single paper machine problem when compared to other single paper machine solution methods found in the literature. For multiple paper machine settings, in most runs the GA solutions are better than those obtained for the MIP model using an optimization software.

Abstract
The evaluation is a determining factor in developing successful strategies for learning. In a classroom context, the teacher can observe the behavior of students and identify different ways to facilitate the assessment without inducing stress, avoiding the negative consequences of this on the result of learning. However, in learning environments eLearning direct contact is impossible and, therefore, there should be alternative ways to provide both detection and prevention of stress during the evaluation. It is therefore appropriate stress analysis and identification of strategies for solving problems arising from its appearance. In this work, a stress analysis module for use is proposed for the online student assessment, which is capable of indicating to the teaching moments more propitious time to intervene and the contents that cause greater difficulties. In this way, the teacher can effectively assist students who need it most.

Abstract
In the present paper we characterize the optimal use of Poisson signals to establish incentives in the "bad" and "good" news models of Abreu et al. (1991). In the former, for small time intervals the signals' quality is high and we observe a "selective" use of information; otherwise there is a "mass" use. In the latter, for small time intervals the signals' quality is low and we observe a "fine" use of information; otherwise there is a "non-selective" use.

Abstract
A dual mode control configuration involving open-loop feedforward control to deal with set-point tracking and proportional integrative and derivative control to deal with disturbance rejection is proposed. The feedforward controller is a Posicast pre-filter shaping the reference input using either two or three steps. The switching between the open-loop and closed-loop control is performed automatically. The particle swarm optimization algorithm is deployed as design tool both for the feedforward and PID controller. Simulation results are presented showing the merits of the proposed technique.

Abstract