Computational Optimization and Operations Research: Theory and Applications

A special issue of Mathematics (ISSN 2227-7390). This special issue belongs to the section "D2: Operations Research and Fuzzy Decision Making".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 31 December 2025 | Viewed by 1590

Special Issue Editors


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Guest Editor
Department of Mathematical Sciences, National Chengchi University, Taipei, Taiwan
Interests: operations research; mathematical modeling; optimization
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Guest Editor
College of Computer Science and Mathematics, Fujian University of Technology, Fuzhou 350118, China
Interests: operations research; operation management; data science; artificial intelligence; intelligent computing; time series forecasting; queue; optimization

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Computational optimization and operations research are dynamic fields that feature exciting advancements which are shaping the future of related fields, with applications across industries. Some recent developments and advanced topics include machine learning and AI integration, quantum computing, graph theory and network analysis, numerical methods for big data, healthcare operations and sustainability, and energy optimization. Many mathematical prediction models using sophisticated optimization and computational techniques have also been developed in other related fields including public health and government administration, especially for the modeling of strategic decision making and supply chain analytics. I invite you to submit your latest research to this Special Issue. Papers exploiting new developments in optimization and applied mathematics, particularly in computational optimization or operations research, are welcome.

Prof. Dr. Hsing Luh
Dr. Chia-Hung Wang
Guest Editors

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Keywords

  • optimization
  • machine learning
  • neural networks
  • simulation
  • operations research
  • stochastic modeling

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Published Papers (2 papers)

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Research

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12 pages, 225 KB  
Article
On Solving the Knapsack Problem with Conflicts
by Roberto Montemanni and Derek H. Smith
Mathematics 2025, 13(16), 2674; https://doi.org/10.3390/math13162674 - 20 Aug 2025
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Abstract
A variant of the well-known Knapsack Problem is studied in this paper. In the classic problem, a set of items is given, with each item characterized by a weight and a profit. A knapsack of a given capacity is provided, and the problem [...] Read more.
A variant of the well-known Knapsack Problem is studied in this paper. In the classic problem, a set of items is given, with each item characterized by a weight and a profit. A knapsack of a given capacity is provided, and the problem consists of selecting a subset of items such that the total weight does not exceed the capacity of the knapsack, while the total profit is maximized. In the variation considered in the present work, pairs of items are conflicting, and cannot be selected at the same time. The resulting problem, which can be used to model several real applications, is considerably harder to approach than the classic one. In this paper, we consider a mixed-integer linear program representing the problem and we solve it with a state-of-the-art black-box software. A vast experimental procedure on the instances available from the literature, and adopted in the last decade by the community, indicates that the approach we propose achieves results comparable with, and in many cases better than, those of state-of-the-art methods, notwithstanding that the latter are typically based on more complex and problem-specific ideas and algorithms than the idea we propose. Full article
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Review

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28 pages, 1693 KB  
Review
Rethinking Metaheuristics: Unveiling the Myth of “Novelty” in Metaheuristic Algorithms
by Chia-Hung Wang, Kun Hu, Xiaojing Wu and Yufeng Ou
Mathematics 2025, 13(13), 2158; https://doi.org/10.3390/math13132158 - 1 Jul 2025
Viewed by 985
Abstract
In recent decades, the rapid development of metaheuristic algorithms has outpaced theoretical understanding, with experimental evaluations often overshadowing rigorous analysis. While nature-inspired optimization methods show promise for various applications, their effectiveness is often limited by metaphor-driven design, structural biases, and a lack of [...] Read more.
In recent decades, the rapid development of metaheuristic algorithms has outpaced theoretical understanding, with experimental evaluations often overshadowing rigorous analysis. While nature-inspired optimization methods show promise for various applications, their effectiveness is often limited by metaphor-driven design, structural biases, and a lack of sufficient theoretical foundation. This paper systematically examines the challenges in developing robust, generalizable optimization techniques, advocating for a paradigm shift toward modular, transparent frameworks. A comprehensive review of the existing limitations in metaheuristic algorithms is presented, along with actionable strategies to mitigate biases and enhance algorithmic performance. Through emphasis on theoretical rigor, reproducible experimental validation, and open methodological frameworks, this work bridges critical gaps in algorithm design. The findings support adopting scientifically grounded optimization approaches to advance operational applications. Full article
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