We study the properties of finite ergodic Markov Chains whose transition probability matrix P is singular. The results establish bounds on the convergence time of Pm to a matrix where all the rows are equal to the stationary distribution of P. The results suggest a simple rule for identifying...

A warehouses location problem is treated using a mixed integer programming and a heuristic algorithm. A simplification of freight rates schedules, based upon shipments consolidation and a linear regression of rates vs distances was made. Warehousing costs were divided according to fixed and...