ConsNet 2.0 release

[Michael Ciarleglio]

Hi everyone,

A new version of ConsNet (v2.0) is now available for download at:

http://uts.cc.utexas.edu/~consbio/Cons/consnet_home.html

We have been using this version in our lab for some time now, and it provides a much better user experience!  The new version is functionally similar to the previous:  load your problem, create initial solutions, create an objective, and then run the search.  The input files used by ConsNet2 are the same as the previous version, but you will not be able to load saved problems from version 1.1 (you will have to create a new problem definition).  We are working on the instruction manual; until then, please refer any questions about ConsNet 2 to the ConsNet google group.

Some of the improvements in ConsNet v2.0:

• improved memory management, faster computations
• new, easier objectives allow better multi-criteria management
• portfolio management helps organize your preferred solutions
  
• provides an objective for the maximal cover problem
  
• run multiple searches at once
• new "aggressive" neighborhood selection strategy performs better when optimizing spatial characteristics
• some program settings are now controlled through a properties file

Michael Ciarleglio