Point processes are random processes that are concerned with point events occurring in space or time. A powerful method of analyzing them is through a sequence of correlation functions, called product densities, introduced by Alladi Ramakrishnan. In view of their wide applicability, there is a spectacular development of the theory and applications of these processes in the recent past.
Most of the books and monographs in this area are not easily comprehensible to non-mathematically oriented readers, because of their abstraction and generality. In addition, the best way to learn a subject is to study the original papers.
Hence it is considered worthwhile to reprint some of the most significant contributions of Alladi Ramakrishnan and his associates to serve as a ready reference volume. While a good working knowledge of elementary probability theory is a must, some acquaintance with Markov processes will be helpful to read these papers.
This volume will be useful to young researchers working in the broad area of stochastic point processes and their applications and in particular indispensable to those working in stochastic modeling with special reference to problems of queues, inventory, reliability, neural network etc. It will also be useful to those working in the conventional areas of statistical physics, fluctuating phenomena and communication theory and control, where point processes are extensively employed.
