The satisfiability (SAT) problem is central in mathematical logic and computing theory, representing a core of computationally intractable NP-complete problems. It is a fundamental hurdle in solving
In this 1991 book the author gives a broad overview of different areas of research in nonmonotonic reasoning, and presents some results and ideas based on his research. The guiding principles are: clarification of the different research activities in the area, which have sometimes been undertaken independently of each other, and appreciation of the fact that these research activities often represent different means to the same ends, namely sound theoretical foundations and efficient computation. The book begins with a discussion of the various types of nonmonotonic reasoning, their applications and their logics. Theorem proving techniques for these logics are also described. There then follow chapters dealing with formulations of nonmonotonic inheritance, and nonmonotonic reasoning based on nonmonotonic rules. The final chapter discusses the achievements in the field in the light of the famous Yale shooting example. The book will be welcomed by researchers in theoretical computer
This comprehensive text provides a modern and technically precise exposition of the fundamental theory and applications of temporal logics in computer science. Part I presents the basics of discrete transition systems, including constructions and behavioural equivalences. Part II examines the most important temporal logics for transition systems and Part III looks at their expressiveness and complexity. Finally, Part IV describes the main computational methods and decision procedures for model checking and model building - based on tableaux, automata and games - and discusses their relationships. The book contains a wealth of examples and exercises, as well as an extensive annotated bibliography. Thus, the book is not only a solid professional reference for researchers in the field but also a comprehensive graduate textbook that can be used for self-study as well as for teaching courses.
Nominal sets provide a promising new mathematical analysis of names in formal languages based upon symmetry, with many applications to the syntax and semantics of programming language constructs that involve binding, or localising names. Part I provides an introduction to the basic theory of nominal sets. In Part II, the author surveys some of the applications that have developed in programming language semantics (both operational and denotational), functional programming and logic programming. As the first book to give a detailed account of the theory of nominal sets, it will be welcomed by researchers and graduate students in theoretical computer science.
Finite-state methods are the most efficient mechanisms for analysing textual and symbolic data, providing elegant solutions for an immense number of practical problems in computational linguistics and computer science. This book for graduate students and researchers gives a complete coverage of the field, starting from a conceptual introduction and building to advanced topics and applications. The central finite-state technologies are introduced with mathematical rigour, ranging from simple finite-state automata to transducers and bimachines as 'input-output' devices. Special attention is given to the rich possibilities of simplifying, transforming and combining finite-state devices. All algorithms presented are accompanied by full correctness proofs and executable source code in a new programming language, C(M), which focuses on transparency of steps and simplicity of code. Thus, by enabling readers to obtain a deep formal understanding of the subject and to put finite-state methods
