  Slepian functions provide a solution to the optimization problem of joint
time-frequency localization. Here, this concept is extended by using a
generalized optimization criterion that favors energy concentration in one
interval while penalizing energy in another interval, leading to the
"augmented" Slepian functions. Mathematical foundations together with examples
are presented in order to illustrate the most interesting properties that these
generalized Slepian functions show. Also the relevance of this novel
energy-concentration criterion is discussed along with some of its
applications.
