Volume 3 (2016): Issue 6 (December 2016)

In contrast to traditional toy tracks, a patented system allows the creation of a large number of tracks with a minimal number of pieces, and whose loops always close properly. These circuits strongly resemble traditional self-avoiding polygons (whose explicit enumeration has not yet been resolved for an arbitrary number of squares) yet there are numerous differences, notably the fact that the geometric constraints are different than those of self-avoiding polygons. We present the methodology allowing the construction and enumeration of all of the possible tracks containing a given number of pieces. For small numbers of pieces, the exact enumeration will be treated. For greater numbers of pieces, only an estimation will be offered. In the latter case, a randomly construction of circuits is also given. We will give some routes for generalizations for similar problems.

In this paper, we discuss in detail what is behind April Fool’s Day

The dominant part in the mental calculation of the day of the week for any given date is to determine the year share, that is, the contribution of the two-digit year part of the date. This paper describes a number of year share computation methods, some well-known and some new. The “Parity Minus 3” method, in particular, is a new alternative to the popular “Odd+11” method. The paper categorizes the methods of year share computation, and presents simpler proofs of their correctness than usually provided.

Sudoku grids are often cited as being useful in cryptography as a key for some encryption process. Historically transporting keys over an alternate channel has been very difficult. This article describes how a Sudoku grid key can be secretly transported using quantum key distribution methods whereby partial grid (or puzzle) can be received and the full key can be recreated by solving the puzzle.

The classic n-queens problem asks for placements of just n mutually non-attacking queens on an n × n board. By adding enough pawns, we can arrange to fill roughly one-quarter of the board with mutually non-attacking queens. How many pawns do we need? We discuss that question for square boards as well as rectangular m × n boards.