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Spring 2009
Analysis and Probability Seminar
Speaker: Frank Filbir
Time: Friday, January 23, 2009 at 2:00 pm
Place: MSB 403 (UConn - Storrs)
Abstract: The talk deals with the approximation and optimal interpolation of functions defined on the bi-sphere S^2xS^2 from scattered data. We start by describing a problem which arises in crystallography and which serves as a motivation for our mathematical considerations. The problem of the determination of the so-called orientation density function (ODF) of a poly-crystalline material is of great importance in material science. The ODF is experimentally not accessible. The measurements provide only Radon transformed and scattered data. The mathematical problem consists in the
reconstruction of the ODF from these scattered data. We demonstrate how the weighted least square approximation to the function can be computed in a stable and efficient manner. The analysis of this problem is based on Marcinkiewicz-Zygmund inequalities for scattered data which we present here for the bi-sphere. The complementary problem of optimal interpolation is also solved by using good localized kernels for our setting.
Additional Comments: Extra seminar - note not usual time or place!
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Analysis and Probability Seminar
Speaker: Fabrice Baudoin (Purdue)
Time: Friday, January 23, 2009 at 3:00 pm
Place: MSB 319 (UConn - Storrs)
Abstract: We propose a generalization to hypoelliptic operators of the so-called curvature dimension inequality. We deduce a hypoelliptic version of the Bonnet-Myers compactness theorem.
This is a joint work with N. Garofalo.
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Algebra Seminar
Speaker: Philip Lombardo (University of Connecticut)
Time: Tuesday, January 27, 2009 at 3:30 pm
Place: MSB 118 (UConn - Storrs)
Abstract: In this talk we will investigate how to define a measure on the
projective limit of a projective family using a corresponding family
of measures. As an example we will construct measure on unipotent
matrices of infinite dimension using the family of canonical measures
for n by n unipotent matrices.
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Actuarial Science Seminar
Speaker: James Bridgeman (University of Connecticut)
Time: Tuesday, January 27, 2009 at 4:30 pm
Place: MSB 411 (UConn - Storrs)
Abstract: A neglected 19th century formula (Faa di Bruno’s formula) crops up often enough to be worth knowing, and is easy once you see the trick. A large number of actuarial calculations (including conditional tail moments) reduce to a single integration by parts which can be captured in a simple picture (the surface interpretation of the nth moment) which eliminates the need to integrate parts ever again for those calculations.
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Analysis and Probability Seminar
Speaker: Triet Le (Yale University)
Time: Friday, January 30, 2009 at 3:00 pm
Place: MSB 319 (UConn - Storrs)
Abstract: This talk is devoted to the extraction of local scales
(oscillations) in images in an automatic fashion. Our study of local scales follows the stopping time argument t(x) in harmonic analysis. In other words, given an image f(x) and its multiscale representation {u(x,t), t>0}, we are interested in finding t(x)>0 for each x. We first consider a multiscale representations of f, where u(x,t) = K_t*f(x) for t>0 and K_t the heat kernel, and show some
useful properties of the local scales t(x). We then show examples using other types of multiscale representations that come from nonlinear PDE and Petree's K-functionals. Applications include texture segmentation, texture decomposition, etc.. For instance, in image (texture) decomposition, an image f is decomposed into u+v, where u
is piecewise smooth with sharp edges and v is texture or oscillations in f. Thus a good knowledge about the local oscillations is needed for a better separation. This is joint work with Peter W. Jones, Yale University.
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UConn Math Club
Speaker: Keith Conrad (University of Connecticut)
Time: Monday, February 2, 2009 at 5:30 pm
Place: MSB 319 (UConn - Storrs)
Abstract: The most popular sliding-pieces-puzzles of the 19th and 20th centuries were the 15 puzzle and Rubik's Cube. We will discuss how to count the total number of arrangements in each puzzle and what the chances are that each puzzle could be solved if you took its pieces apart and put them back together at random.
Note: This talk was originally scheduled for Jan. 28 but was postponed due to bad weather.
Comments: Free Refreshments
Additional Comments: Email: uconnmathclub@gmail.com Facebook group: UConn Math Club
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UConn Math Club
Speaker: Ben Steinhurst (University of Connecticut)
Time: Wednesday, February 4, 2009 at 5:30 pm
Place: MSB 319 (UConn - Storrs)
Abstract: Most fractals are very complicated objects that can also be difficult to visualize. We'll take some simple fractals and see how to work with them through graphs. This approach makes it much easier to define functions with nice properties on the fractals. Out favorite examples will be the Sierpinski gasket and Diamond fractal. If time allows we'll talk about how to take the second derivative on these fractals in a natural way but not the first derivative.
Comments: Free Refreshments
Additional Comments: Email: uconnmathclub@gmail.com Facebook group: UConn Math Club
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Colloquium
Speaker: Mike Boyle (University of Maryland, College Park)
Faculty Sponsor: Michael Neumann
Time: Thursday, February 5, 2009 at 4:00 pm
Place: MSB 118 (UConn - Storrs)
Abstract: A directed graph (or equivalently its adjacency matrix A)
defines a symbolic dynamical system S_A, a shift of finite
type (SFT). In dynamics one naturally tries to categorize dynamical invariants of SFTs (and related symbolic systems) in terms of understandable matrix invariants of the nonnegative matrices presenting them, and some theorem about which of those matrix invariants can actually arise in the nonnegative case. Among some successes, there are difficult open problems. I will describe some of this, and in particular how quickly one steps from an easy problem to a very hard one. I plan to include very concrete matrix items a nonexpert can understand and walk away with.
As a part of this, I'll mention some past joint work with Michael Sullivan and with Danrun Huang, and some work in progress with Toke Carlsen and Soren Eilers.
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Colloquium
Speaker: Rajeev S. G. (University of Rochester)
Faculty Sponsor: Maria Gordina
Time: Friday, February 6, 2009 at 3:00 pm
Place: MSB 319 (UConn - Storrs)
Abstract: Arnold has suggested that the Euler equations for the flow
of an ideal fluid can be thought of the geodesic equations on the group of volume preserving diffeomorphisms. I will show how this idea can be implemented systematically for two dimensional (area preserving) flows, using an approximation scheme inspired by quantum mechanics. Then I will describe how to include viscosity (Navier-Stokes equations) as well as small random forces. For flow on the surface of a rotating sphere, the most likely solution contains vortices or `hurricanes'. I will conclude with some ideas on how to
extend to three dimensional flow as well as on how to make the two dimensional theory mathematically rigorous.
Comments: This is joint with Analysis and Probability seminar
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Analysis and Probability Seminar
Speaker: S. G. Rajeev (University of Rochester)
Time: Friday, February 6, 2009 at 3:00 pm
Place: MSB 319 (UConn - Storrs)
Abstract: Arnold has suggested that the Euler equations for the flow of an ideal
fluid can be thought of the geodesic equations on the group of volume
preserving diffeomorphisms. I will show how this idea can be implemented
systematically for two dimensional (area preserving) flows, using an
approximation scheme inspired by quantum mechanics. Then I will describe
how to include viscosity (Navier-Stokes equations) as well as small
random forces. For flow on the surface of a rotating sphere, the most
likely solution contains vortices or `hurricanes'. I will conclude with
some ideas on how to extend to three dimensional flow as well as on how
to make the two dimensional theory mathematically rigorous.
Comments: This is a Colloquium/AP talk. Graduate students encouraged to attend!
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PDE and Image Analysis Seminar
Speaker: Dmitriy Leykekhman (University of Connecticut)
Time: Monday, February 9, 2009 at 3:30 pm
Place: MSB 118 (UConn - Storrs)
Abstract: Standard Galerkin finite element discretizations applied to
advection-dominated, elliptic PDEs can lead to highly oscillatory
solutions, unless the grid is sufficiently fine. Over the years a number
of stabilized methods, such as streamline upwind/Petrov Galerkin (SUPG)
methods or Galerkin/Least-Squares (GALS) methods, were developed. These
methods are frequently applied to advection-dominated elliptic PDEs.
Local and global error estimates for these methods are well known.
In this talk we are interested in local and global error estimates of
the SUPG stabilized numerical solution of optimal control problems. We
show that the discretization error for this method in the optimal
control context behaves differently as a function of the mesh size than
it does for scalar advection-dominated elliptic problems. This is true
even for local error estimates in the regions of smoothness, away from
interior or boundary layers. We will provide error estimates for the
computed solution of the optimal control problem and we will present
numerical results to illustrate our findings.
This talk is based on joint work with M. Heinkenschloss, Rice
University.
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Algebra Seminar
Speaker: Keith Conrad (University of Connecticut)
Time: Tuesday, February 10, 2009 at 3:30 pm
Place: MSB 118 (UConn - Storrs)
Abstract: In an order in a number field, a fractional ideal is called
proper if its ring of multipliers is the order (and not a larger ring).
Any invertible fractional ideal is a proper fractional ideal. Is
every proper fractional ideal an invertible fractional ideal? It has
been
known for a long time that the answer is yes for all orders in
quadratic fields. We will see that the answer is no for infinitely many
orders in every number field of degree greater than 2.
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Actuarial Science Seminar
Speaker: Francis Sabatini (retired, formerly with Ernst & Young)
Time: Tuesday, February 10, 2009 at 4:30 pm
Place: MSB 411 (UConn - Storrs)
Abstract: I will be presenting from my perspective on the financial crisis, the Chartered Enterprise Risk Analyst (CERA) designation and my experience in risk management over my career, ultimately promoting students to pursue risk management roles in traditional and non-traditional industries.
<Extra Information>
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Mathematics Education
Speaker: Alvaro Lozano-Robledo and Tom Roby (University of Connecticut)
Time: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 at 3:00 pm
Place: MSB 215 (UConn - Storrs)
Abstract: Free peer-tutoring provided by UConn's Quantitative Learning Center
finds itself on the front lines supporting students struggling in their
collegiate math and science courses. The volume of students coming in
for help has grown dramatically: from 600 visits in Fall'05 to 9300 in
Fall'08. In this first of two talks, we will discuss how the Q Center
is organized and functions within the university. We will summarize the
extensive data we have collected from our online sign-in, and see how
seemingly small differences between departments' pedagogical models or
changes within a single department (such as moving to online homework or
large lectures) can cause significant changes in student behavior.
Comments: This is the first of a two-part presentation. Second part is scheduled for Wednesday, February 18.
Additional Comments: NOTICE ROOM: MSB 215
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UConn Math Club
Speaker: John Haga (University of Connecticut)
Time: Wednesday, February 11, 2009 at 5:30 pm
Place: MSB 319 (UConn - Storrs)
Abstract: A number is called “normal to base n” if the digits in base n have a uniform distribution: all digits are equally likely, all pairs of digits are equally likely, all triplets of digits are equally likely, etc. For instance, the number 0.1234567891011121314... is known to be normal to base 10, but may not be normal in other bases. It is a surprising fact that the vast majority of all real numbers are simultaneously normal to every base, and yet we do not know an explicit example of such a number! We will discuss the concept of normal numbers, as well as casually discuss what is meant by the phrase “almost every” appearing in the title of this talk.
Comments: Free Refreshments
Additional Comments: Email: uconnmathclub@gmail.com Facebook group: UConn Math Club
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Colloquium
Speaker: Gilbert Strang (MIT)
Faculty Sponsor: Michael Neumann
Time: Tuesday, February 17, 2009 at 4:00 pm
Place: MSB MSB 118 (UConn - Storrs)
Abstract: Israel Koltracht was not concerned about "rank" in the usual sense of
the word -- he just did wonderful mathematics. I will express a few
thoughts about the life of a mathematician. It is an honor to do this.
Rank in the mathematical sense is very important. This lecture will
touch on these questions (and more):
1. The classical Nullity Theorem, which connects ranks of submatrices
of a matrix and its inverse matrix.
2. First attempts at a quantitative version of that Theorem.
3. The algorithmic problem of completing a matrix with missing data.
This is a fundamental problem in applications, and a modern approach
is to minimize the rank. Since that problem is NP-hard, competing
algorithms have been proposed for fast and good completion. Where
others aim for maximum rank, mathematics is happy with minimum rank.
Comments: This is a colloquium in memory of Izzi Koltracht
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Mathematics Education
Speaker: Alvaro Lozano-Robledo and Tom Roby (University of Connecticut)
Time: Wednesday, February 18, 2009 at 3:00 pm
Place: MSB 215 (UConn - Storrs)
Abstract: In the second talk, we would like to engage the audience in a
conversation about how the Q Center can leverage its strong connection
with struggling students to do research in mathematics education. Are
there other models we could use to help students more efficiently?
What do we need to understand better about how students learn
this kind of material? Are there opportunities to collaborate with
the School of Ed or Q departments, possibly with extramural funding? We
will present some partial answers, then open the floor to discussion.
Comments: This is the second of a two-part presentation. First part is scheduled for Wednesday, February 11.
Additional Comments: NOTICE ROOM: MSB 215
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S.I.G.M.A. Seminar
Speaker: Many Speakers (University of Connecticut)
Time: Wednesday, February 18, 2009 at 4:30 pm
Place: MSB 118 (UConn - Storrs)
Abstract: Looking for an advisor? Want to do some research? Not sure where to start? Then you need to come to the SIGMA seminar's panel on finding an advisor and starting research. Get advice from advanced graduate students, post-docs, and professors as they share there expertise on this challenging but rewarding part of being a graduate student in mathematics.
Comments: Free Donuts (courtesy of GSS)
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UConn Math Club
Speaker: Paul Ellis (University of Connecticut)
Time: Wednesday, February 18, 2009 at 5:30 pm
Place: MSB 319 (UConn - Storrs)
Abstract: Euler proved the following equation, which is called the Basel problem:
1+1/4+1/9+1/16 + ... = π2/6.
While this equation is true, Euler's proof wouldn't stand up to scrutiny in a modern calculus classroom!
But Euler had some funny ideas about infinite series. For example, he thought that
1-1+1-1+1-1+...=1/2.
Well, maybe this is true on average, but he also thought
1+2+4+8+16+...=-1.
And this makes sense because -1 is larger than infinity?!?!
I will talk about Euler and infinite series, and talk about his solution of the Basel problem. If we have time, I will also show a couple of modern proofs of the formula, all of which are pretty, and all of which require nothing more than calculus.
Comments: Free Refreshments
Additional Comments: Email: uconnmathclub@gmail.com Facebook group: UConn Math Club
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Analysis and Probability Seminar
Speaker: Maria Gordina (University of Connecticut)
Time: Friday, February 20, 2009 at 3:00 pm
Place: MSB 319 (UConn - Storrs)
Abstract: The groups in question are modeled on an abstract Wiener space. Then a
group Brownian motion is defined, and its properties are studied in
connection with the geometry of this group. The main results include
quasi-invariance of the Gaussian (heat kernel) measure, log Sobolev
inequality (following a bound on the Ricci curvature), and the Taylor
isomorphism to the corresponding Fock space. The latter map is a version
of the Ito-Wiener expansion in the non-commutative setting. This is a
joint work with B.Driver.
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Logic Seminar
Speaker: Rebecca Weber (Dartmouth)
Time: Monday, February 23, 2009 at 4:45 pm
Place: Exley Science Center 618 (Wesleyan University)
Abstract: Kolmogorov complexity measures the information content of a finite string. We define the mutual information of two finite strings as the sum of their individual complexities minus the complexity of their encoding as a pair. When the strings are closely related, the complexity of the pair will be smaller and hence the mutual information larger.
For infinite sequences there is no universally agreed-upon definition for mutual information. I'll present one contender and argue for its plausibility, and discuss ongoing work with Denis Hirschfeldt on sequences that are low for information: those that have finite mutual information with themselves. These have nice connections to K-triviality and other properties of computational weakness.
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Algebra Seminar
Speaker: Reinier Broker (Microsoft Research)
Time: Tuesday, February 24, 2009 at 3:30 pm
Place: MSB 118 (UConn - Storrs)
Abstract: The canonical lift of an ordinary elliptic curve E over F_p is an
elliptic
curve over Q_p that reduces to E and has isomorphic endomorphism ring.
The
explicit computation of this lift has applications to class field
theory,
since it leads to an algorithm to compute the `Hilbert class
polynomial'. In
this talk I will give fast algorithms to compute both these objects.
Many
examples will be given.
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Actuarial Science Seminar
Speaker: Gregory Smith (UConn/Conning Research & Consulting)
Time: Tuesday, February 24, 2009 at 4:30 pm
Place: MSB 411 (UConn - Storrs)
Abstract: This presentation will focus on retirement plans in the U.S. and the consumer’s need for guaranteed lifetime income. In addition to looking at what’s involved in converting a retirement nest egg into streams of income, we will discuss the implications of “framing” in consumer behavior, model results showing the impact of inflation on retirees, and retirement income products offered by mutual fund companies and the life insurance industry.
<Extra Information>
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Mathematics Education
Speaker: Stephen Miller (University of Connecticut)
Time: Wednesday, February 25, 2009 at 3:00 pm
Place: MSB 215 (UConn - Storrs)
Abstract: As the internet grows, blogging becomes an increasingly important means of electronic communication. In this seminar we will demonstrate how to setup free blogging software so that weekly course information is available to students through RSS technologies (eg. Google Reader). We will also demonstrate how to post syllabi, homework assignments and links to educational resources such as wikipedia and youtube.
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S.I.G.M.A. Seminar
Speaker: Keith Conrad (University of Connecticut)
Time: Wednesday, February 25, 2009 at 4:30 pm
Place: MSB 118 (UConn - Storrs)
Abstract: We will explain how the classical Galois theory of finite extensions of fields
extends to the case of field extensions with infinite degree. New topological ideas are needed which are not at all visible in the classical case.
Comments: Free Donuts (courtesy of GSS)
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UConn Math Club
Speaker: Iddo Ben-Ari (University of Connecticut)
Time: Wednesday, February 25, 2009 at 5:30 pm
Place: MSB 319 (UConn - Storrs)
Abstract: A random walk is a mathematical model describing a drunken walk. We will discuss a model known as the symmetric nearest neighbor random walk on the d-dimensional integer lattice: the walker begins from 0, and at each step, the walker jumps randomly to one of the adjacent lattice points, the choice being independent of the previous steps. Will the walker ever find his way back to 0? In dimensions 1 and 2 he will, eventually. In dimensions 3 and higher, there is positive probability he won't! Or, as Professor Shizuo Kakutani used to say to his students, “A drunk man will find his way home, but a drunk bird may get lost forever.” We will show how to prove this result and estimate the probability of return to 0 with some calculus and probability.
Comments: Free Refreshments
Additional Comments: Email: uconnmathclub@gmail.com Facebook group: UConn Math Club
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Colloquium
Speaker: Luc Rey-Bellet (University of Massachusets, Amherst)
Faculty Sponsor: Maria Gordina
Time: Thursday, February 26, 2009 at 4:00 pm
Place: MSB 118 (UConn - Storrs)
Abstract: The mathematical billiards describe the motion of a particle undergoing elastic collisions on a set of obstacles. It is a classical result from Bunimovich, Sinai and Chernov that such a system is strongly chaotic if the obstacles are strictly convex. We will discuss several probabilistic properties of the motion of such chaotic systems, such as central limit theorems and large deviations theorems. The results presented are a joint work with Lai-Sang Young (NYU)
Comments: The talk is intended for a general audience, graduate students welcome.
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Actuarial Science Seminar
Speaker: Charlie Linn (Milliman, Inc.)
Time: Tuesday, March 3, 2009 at 4:30 pm
Place: MSB 411 (UConn - Storrs)
Abstract: Historically, there have been two main purposes of actuarial software for financial reporting: reserve valuation and asset/liability management. In order to meet the diverse needs of these two purposes, software companies chose to concentrate on one or the other, to develop the best possible product for the given purpose. However, with the advent of the new Principles-Based Approach (PBA) to reserve valuation and capital adequacy, the lines between valuation and asset/liability management are becoming gray. The actuarial software market will need to adapt, and incorporate features of both into one seamless process. This presentation discusses the current actuarial software market, the changes brought about by PBA, and how the actuarial software market will adapt to address those changes.
<Extra Information>
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S.I.G.M.A. Seminar
Speaker: Paul Ellis (University of Connecticut)
Time: Wednesday, March 4, 2009 at 4:30 pm
Place: MSB 118 (UConn - Storrs)
Abstract: For his second labor, Hercules was sent to Lerna in Argolis to kill the terrible Hydra. Offspring of the Chthonic Gods, the Hydra had poisonous breath so virulent even her tracks were deadly. But killing this beast was to be no straightforward feat of bravery (stupidity?), for it had nine heads, and for each one Hercules would cut off, another would grow in its place. On Wednesday, in MSB, we will help Hercules to slay the Hydra, Goodstein sequences, and donuts.
Comments: Free Donuts (courtesy of GSS)
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UConn Math Club
Speaker: Jeremy Teitelbaum (University of Connecticut)
Time: Wednesday, March 4, 2009 at 5:30 pm
Place: MSB 319 (UConn - Storrs)
Abstract: A cipher is a system that substitutes symbols from one or more alphabets for those in another. In a monoalphabetic cipher, symbols from one alphabet are replaced by symbols from another fixed one: for example, rewriting a message replacing a by b, b by c, ..., and z by a is a simple example of a monoalphabetic cipher. Breaking such a cipher means recovering the original message
given only the transformed one. Monoalphabetic ciphers are easily broken by consideration of frequencies of symbols.
In a polyalphabetic cipher, a different alphabet is used for different symbols of the original message according to some systematic rule. Polyalphabetic ciphers are more secure than monoalphabetic ones. The Vigenere cipher is one of the oldest examples of a polyalphabetic cipher. I will describe how it works and how it can be attacked using a statistical tool called the index of coincidence.
Comments: Free Refreshments
Additional Comments: Email: uconnmathclub@gmail.com Facebook group: UConn Math Club
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Colloquium
Speaker: Xue-Mei Li (University of Warwick/ Courant Institute)
Faculty Sponsor: Maria Gordina
Time: Friday, March 6, 2009 at 3:00 pm
Place: MSB 319 (UConn - Storrs)
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Analysis and Probability Seminar
Speaker: Xue-Mei Li (University of Warwick/ Courant Institute)
Time: Friday, March 6, 2009 at 3:00 pm
Place: MSB 319 (UConn - Storrs)
Comments: This is a colloquium and AP seminar. See Colloquium page for details
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Colloquium
Speaker: Martin Hairer (Courant Institute)
Time: Friday, March 6, 2009 at 4:00 pm
Place: MSB 319 (UConn - Storrs)
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UConn Math Club
Speaker: Many Speakers
Time: Saturday, March 7, 2009 at 5:30 pm
Place: MSB 319 (Brown University)
Abstract: On March 7th, the first Saturday of our spring break, the UConn Math Club is chartering a bus to Providence to attend the Symposium for Undergraduates in the Mathematical Sciences at Brown.
Our bus will leave UConn at 7:30 AM on Mar. 7 and will return that evening no later than 10:00 PM. If you are interested in joining us, please register at http://www.math.brown.edu/sums/, where there is further information about the talks, and also send an email to uconnmathclub@gmail.com by February 20th, providing your name and a phone number. (Students in the residence halls have to vacate on Mar. 6, so if you are in the residence halls and do not have alternate local housing near UConn, please indicate this in your email and we will try to find temporary accommodations with other students near UConn on the night before and after the symposium.)
Comments: Banquet Dinner Partially Funded by USG
Additional Comments: Email: uconnmathclub@gmail.com Facebook group: UConn Math Club
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PDE and Image Analysis Seminar
Speaker: Pengwen Chen (University of Connecticut)
Time: Monday, March 16, 2009 at 4:00 pm
Place: MSB 403 (UConn - Storrs)
Abstract: We present a new model to estimate the correspondence
and the non-rigid transformation between two point-sets or
images. This model uses an algorithm similar to the soft assign
in non-rigid matching problems( called Sinkhorn matrix balancing).
On the other hand, it
also exhibits theoretical features(uniqueness, bijection) analogous to the optimal
mass transport model. This model bridges the non-rigid
matching problem and the optimal mass transport problem.
Besides, the parametrization invariance enables us to unify
point-sets matching, and image matching. A few preliminary
experiments are provided to show the effectiveness of this model.
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Algebra Seminar
Speaker: Kyu-Hwan Lee (University of Connecticut)
Time: Tuesday, March 17, 2009 at 3:30 pm
Place: MSB 118 (UConn - Storrs)
Abstract: We define Eisenstein series on loop groups and calculate their constant terms. We will focus on the example of $widehat{SL}_2$.
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Actuarial Science Seminar
Speaker: Jay Vadiveloo (UConn/Watson Wyatt)
Time: Tuesday, March 17, 2009 at 4:30 pm
Place: MSB 411 (UConn - Storrs)
Abstract: The presentation looks at a completely different way of managing retirement or pre-retirement needs, which is particularly appropriate in today’s uncertain economic times. The integrated financial planning strategy we are proposing provides an actuarially sound basis to meet all the needs of retirement with guarantees that can be custom fitted to the individual retiree’s financial needs, as well as the opportunity for the retiree to share in any enhanced investment performance of their retirement assets. The key aspects of this strategy that makes it so appealing in today’s economy are the following: (a) it is integrated to meet all retirement needs; (b) it guarantees all the various risk coverages it offers; (c) it is flexible to meet the individual financial needs of retirees; (d) it allows the retiree to share in any investment performance in excess of guarantees; and (e) it is actuarially sound and only insurance companies can offer this strategy.
<Extra Information>
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S.I.G.M.A. Seminar
Speaker: Alvaro Lozano-Robledo (University of Connecticut)
Time: Wednesday, March 18, 2009 at 4:30 pm
Place: MSB 118 (UConn - Storrs)
Abstract: Elliptic curves and Modular forms are, seemingly, very
distinct objects. EC's are eminently algebraic objects (algebraic
curves of genus 1) while MF's are conspicuously analytic objects
(complex analytic functions on the upper half plane). However, it
turns out EC's and MF's are the opposite sides of the same coin. In
this talk, we will define both objects, and will give a brief
explanation of how to construct a MF from an EC (easy to construct,
but hard to show that it *is* an MF) and how to construct an EC from a
MF (***hard***). If time permits, we will also mention how the
Modularity Theorem and the Taniyama-Shimura-Weil Conjecture fit in all
of this.
Comments: Free Donuts (courtesy of GSS)
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UConn Math Club
Speaker: Ander Steele (BU)
Time: Wednesday, March 18, 2009 at 5:30 pm
Place: MSB 319 (UConn - Storrs)
Abstract: Benford's Law predicts that many natural data sets will exhibit a surprising significant-digit bias. If you examine a table of stock prices, lake sizes, or physical constants, approximately 30% of the numbers should have leading digit 1. We will explain the mathematical basis for Benford's Law, give some examples, and discuss applications.
Comments: Free Refreshments Partially Funded by USG
Additional Comments: Email: uconnmathclub@gmail.com Facebook group: UConn Math Club
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Colloquium
Speaker: Jeremy Teitelbaum (University of Connecticut)
Faculty Sponsor: Maria Gordina
Time: Thursday, March 19, 2009 at 4:00 pm
Place: MSB 118 (UConn - Storrs)
Abstract: I will give an overview of the theory of locally analytic representations of
p-adic groups that Schneider and I developed. I will emphasize the role of
certain non-noetherian, non-commutative, topological algebras, the
distribution algebras of p-adic groups, in this theory.
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Analysis and Probability Seminar
Speaker: Lin Ge (University of Connecticut)
Time: Friday, March 20, 2009 at 3:00 pm
Place: MSB 319 (UConn - Storrs)
Abstract: We establish in a setting of harmonic analysis precise relationships between combinatorial measurements and Orlicz norms. These relationships further extend and sharpen prior results concerning extensions of the Littlewood 2n/(n+1)-inequalities, the n-dimensional Khintchin
inequalities, and the Kahane-Khintchin inequality.
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Algebra Seminar
Speaker: Omer Kucuksakalli (University of Massachusetts--Amherst)
Time: Tuesday, March 24, 2009 at 3:30 pm
Place: MSB 118 (UConn - Storrs)
Abstract: The class number is a powerful invariant in algebraic number theory which
can be used to investigate the integer solutions of polynomials, such as
Fermat's Equation. It can be computed for extensions with small degree and
discriminant, however computations take a very long time for higher
extensions. In this talk, we will describe a heuristic method to compute
the class numbers of ray class fields of imaginary quadratic fields, the
elliptic curve analogue of cyclotomic fields. We will use elliptic units
analytically constructed by Stark and the Galois action on them given by
Shimura's reciprocity. In the end we will give a counter-example to
Vandiver's conjecture in the elliptic curve case.
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Actuarial Science Seminar
Speaker: Matthew Wininger (Hartford Life)
Time: Tuesday, March 24, 2009 at 4:30 pm
Place: MSB 411 (UConn - Storrs)
Abstract: Traditional payout annuities are now receiving more prominence due to heightened perception of equity return risk, the continued decline of traditional defined benefit plans, and increasing longevity. This presentation will review the practical aspects of calculating GAAP and statutory reserves and show the subsequent financial reporting impacts. The discussion will be accessible for students who have been exposed to simple annuities, but not necessarily life contingencies.
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UConn Math Club
Speaker: Glenn Stevens (BU)
Time: Wednesday, March 25, 2009 at 5:30 pm
Place: MSB 319 (UConn - Storrs)
Abstract: Mathematics is the science of structure. Mathematicians use structure as a tool for constructing proofs and deducing new knowledge from old knowledge. But even more importantly, we use structure as a guide for GUESSING what might be true beyond what we know how to prove.
In this talk we will discuss a few of the many tricks mathematicians use for constructing continuous structures to interpolate discrete data sets. In particular we will look at an historical example and see how John Wallis was able to “guess” his famous product formula for π/2 from a close examination of the structure of Pascal's triangle.
Comments: Free Refreshments Partially Funded by USG
Additional Comments: Email: uconnmathclub@gmail.com Facebook group: UConn Math Club
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Analysis and Probability Seminar
Speaker: Mikhail Gordin
Time: Friday, March 27, 2009 at 3:00 pm
Place: MSB 319 (UConn - Storrs)
Abstract: I will start with a brief survey of the martingale method in
the Central Limit Theorem for stationary random sequences. I will
discuss an additive decomposition as a sum of a martingale difference
and a coboundary, and also the role of the Poisson equation in the
Markov case. Passing to stationary d-parameter arrays of random
variables, the higher Poisson equation, the corresponding
martingale/coboundary decomposition (involving $2^d$ terms) and its
role in asymptotic topics will be discussed. An application to a problem
in the metric number theory (joint work with Michel Weber) will be
mentioned. The same formalism inspires a definition of $V$- and
$U$-statistics of a measure preserving transformation and a proper
substitute for classical Hoeffding's decomposition. I will conclude with
a limit theorem for canonical $V$-statistics of degree 2 (joint work
with Herold Dehling and Manfred Denker).
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Mathematics Education
Speaker: Kimberly Santucci Sofronas (Emmanuel College)
Time: Monday, March 30, 2009 at 4:00 pm
Place: Gentry 142 (UConn - Storrs)
Abstract: This talk will present the views of 24 experts on what students
should know and be able to do upon completing the first-year calculus. Four main
themes emerge as central to the development of a strong conceptual
comprehension of the first-year calculus: an
understanding of the context and purpose of the calculus; an
understanding of inherent connections and relationships; mastery of the fundamental concepts and skills; and an ability to use the ideas of the
first-year calculus to solve problems. Each of
these themes will be explored in detail and their pedagogical
implications will be discussed.
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Algebra Seminar
Speaker: Donghoon Park (Brown University)
Time: Tuesday, March 31, 2009 at 3:30 pm
Place: MSB 118 (UConn - Storrs)
Abstract: For a projective and smooth algebraic varieties over a
field, we can define its (pure) motive which is a universal cohomology
theory of this variety. When our variety is not smooth or not
projective, it is not simple to construct such a universal cohomology
theory. But if our variety is an algebraic curve (not necessarily
projective and smooth), we see how to define its (mixed) motive. A
1-motive is the main ingredient of this motive (of a curve) and I will
explain the category of 1-motives, its realization functors and duality.
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Actuarial Science Seminar
Speaker: Louis Lombardi (University of Connecticut)
Time: Tuesday, March 31, 2009 at 4:30 pm
Place: MSB 411 (UConn - Storrs)
Abstract: In the early 1970’s Richard G. Horn established a methodology for analyzing the earnings of a life insurance company that reflected, at that time, the types of products underwritten and the accounting principles that were in effect. This methodology became to be known as a “sources of earnings analysis.”
With the exception of term life insurance, most life insurance and annuity products underwritten today have significant equity risk. Furthermore, fair value accounting principles are replacing historical-based accounting principles. Finally, life insurance companies have sophisticated risk management policies and procedures to manage risk.
The purpose of this talk is to extend Richard Horn’s “sources of earnings analysis” to reflect the evolution in product design, accounting standards and risk management practices. In particular, under fair value accounting principles, the capital account becomes the primary focus of attention. Accordingly, this talk develops a methodology to perform an “analysis of the change in capital” which would replace a traditional “sources of earnings analysis.” In addition, most life insurance companies have hedging programs to manage the embedded equity risks in the types of products they have underwritten. Thus, an important focus of this analysis is to monitor the effectiveness of these hedging programs.
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S.I.G.M.A. Seminar
Speaker: Kyu-Hwan Lee (University of Connecticut)
Time: Wednesday, April 1, 2009 at 4:30 pm
Place: MSB 118 (UConn - Storrs)
Abstract: Quantum groups were introduced into mathematics
in 1980's and have been intensely studied. Many applications
have been found in various branches of mathematics.
In this talk, I will try to explain what a quantum group is
and why it is important.
Comments: Free Donuts (courtesy of GSS)
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UConn Math Club
Speaker: Russell Prime (UConn)
Time: Wednesday, April 1, 2009 at 5:30 pm
Place: MSB 319 (UConn - Storrs)
Abstract: Bachet's Equation is any equation of the form y2=x3+c for a nonzero
integer c. In general, it is hard to find integer or rational solutions
to this type of equation, but we will see that in most cases, if you can
find one rational solution to y2=x3+c,
you can find infinitely many rational solutions! We will do this by discussing a peculiar arithmetic property of points that satisfy Bachet's equation, which will seem less peculiar once we understand its geometric meaning.
Comments: Free Refreshments
Additional Comments: Email: uconnmathclub@gmail.com Facebook group: UConn Math Club
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Analysis and Probability Seminar
Speaker: Mang Wu (University of Connecticut)
Time: Friday, April 3, 2009 at 3:00 pm
Place: MSB 319 (UConn - Storrs)
Abstract: Diff(S^1) is the group of orientation preserving
diffeomorphisms of the unit circle. The group Diff(S^1) arises naturally
in many places in mathematical physics. For example, the famous Virasoro
group in mathematical physics is the central extension of the group
Diff(S^1). In this talk, I will describe a method to construct a
Brownian motion on the group Diff(S^1).
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UConn Math Club
Speaker: Rachel Schwell (Central Conn. State Univ.)
Time: Monday, April 6, 2009 at 5:30 pm
Place: MSB 319 (UConn - Storrs)
Abstract: The standard distance between two points in the xy-plane is simply the length of the straight line between them. While intuitive, this is not always the most logical or useful way to calculate distance. For example, the distance between New York and Boston is 190 miles, but this is not an appropriate description of the actual mileage required to travel by ground from one to the other. This notion of redefining distance arises in an application called spatial scan statistics, which is a method of identifying pockets of disease, or outbreaks, in an epidemic. In this talk, we will discuss different formulae for distance (called metrics) and describe how these can be applied in the use of spatial scan statistics.
Comments: Free Refreshments Partially Funded by USG Note the talk is on Monday!
Additional Comments: Email: uconnmathclub@gmail.com Facebook group: UConn Math Club
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Algebra Seminar
Speaker: Ralf Schiffler (University of Connecticut)
Time: Tuesday, April 7, 2009 at 3:30 pm
Place: MSB 118 (UConn - Storrs)
Abstract: There is a map from clusters in a cluster algebra of finite type to
reduced expressions of the longest element of the Weyl group. I will
describe this map, show how it behaves with respect to mutations and
sketch what can be generalized to the non finite type case.
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Actuarial Science Seminar
Speaker: Michael Braunstein
Time: Tuesday, April 7, 2009 at 4:30 pm
Place: MSB 411 (UConn - Storrs)
Abstract: Attendees at this presentation will learn about a unique approach to actuarial talent management. They will hear why it makes sense for an actuary, working in a nontraditional role, to oversee the career development function for a community of actuaries, and they will get a taste of the necessary technical and business competencies that all actuaries need to be successful. What's more, they will be offered a valuable glimpse into the resources and methodologies that are being used to help develop those actuarial and business savvy skills. This session should be of interest and is pertinent to all those thinking of entering the actuarial profession.
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S.I.G.M.A. Seminar
Speaker: Thomas Peters (University of Connecticut)
Time: Wednesday, April 8, 2009 at 4:30 pm
Place: MSB 118 (UConn - Storrs)
Abstract: TEA = Topological Encoding of Animation -- a point of view
that change of shape should be the focus for animation.
ToAST = Topology in Animation: Science and Technology.
Topology is the mathematics that formalizes permissible changes of geometric objects.
Applications to motion picture special effects and dynamic visualizations for
supercomputer simulations of protein folding and engineering design will be discussed.
This talk will present the role of topology in
an NSF SBIR funded start-up, Kerner Graphics,
collaboration on scientific animation and visualization with IBM
and Digizyme, Inc., and
associated experiments and graduate education for implementations on
programmable graphics processing units, using state-of-the-art equipment
from Nvidia.
A new graduate course on these subjects for Fall 09 will be discussed, with additional
students being welcomed to participate.
Comments: Free Donuts (courtesy of GSS)
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Colloquium
Speaker: Jill Pipher (Brown University )
Faculty Sponsor: Erin Terwilleger
Time: Thursday, April 9, 2009 at 4:00 pm
Place: MSB 118 (UConn - Storrs)
Abstract: A solution to Laplace's equation is a harmonic function. A function which is harmonic in a (smooth enough) domain is uniquely determined by its boundary values. The classical
Dirichlet problem is this: given a domain D, find a harmonic function in D which assumes prescribed values on the boundary of D. This problem is important for many other operators
besides the Laplacian, which have a similar structure: second order, elliptic, divergence form. (All of these terms will be explained.) The connection between harmonic function theory
and the function space BMO has been made very explicit in some fundamental results in Fourier analysis: in the context of Carleson measures, and in and C. Fefferman's proof of duality of BMO and the Hardy space H^1, for example. Indeed, the space BMO has turned out to play an important in many areas of linear and nonlinear PDE. We will describe this history, as well as a new connection to boundary value problems for elliptic operators.
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Analysis and Probability Seminar
Speaker: Brigitta Vermesi (University of Rochester)
Time: Friday, April 10, 2009 at 3:00 pm
Place: MSB 403 (UConn - Storrs)
Abstract: In the past decade, there have been significant advances in the study of two-dimensional critical systems in statistical physics, in particular due to the introduction of Schramm Loewner Evolution (SLE). For example, some critical exponents for planar Brownian motion have been computed exactly using SLE. But what can we say about the same exponents in the case of 3-dimensional Brownian motion? To answer this question, we start by studying a somewhat simpler, but related problem: critical exponents for random walks on d-dimensional cylinders. In this talk, I will describe the random walk problem and explain how it relates to the 3-dimensional Brownian motion case. This leads to a conjecture about exponents for Brownian motion.
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PDE and Image Analysis Seminar
Speaker: EunHeui Kim (California State University at Long Beach)
Time: Monday, April 13, 2009 at 4:00 pm
Place: MSB 403 (UConn - Storrs)
Abstract: Many practical problems in science and engineering,
for example in aerodynamics, multi-phase flow and
hemodynamics, involve conserved quantities, and lead to partial
differential equations in the form of conservation laws. Understanding
the mathematical structure of these equations and their solutions is
essential to obtain physical insight into such practical problems.
There are special difficulties associated (e.g. shock formation) with
these equations that are not seen elsewhere and must be dealt with
carefully. Moreover, in multidimensional conservation laws, there is
little theory at present. One approach, the study of self-similar
solutions, leads to the study of equations that change their type,
namely, equations that are hyperbolic far from the origin and mixed
near the origin. Some results have been obtained recently in this
area, but there are still many open problems.
In this talk, we discuss transonic problems in multidimensional
conservation laws, present current results and ongoing research in
this area.
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Algebra Seminar
Speaker: Matthew Morrow (University of Nottingham/Harvard University)
Time: Tuesday, April 14, 2009 at 3:30 pm
Place: MSB 118 (UConn - Storrs)
Abstract: It is hoped that developing an integration theory for two-dimensional local fields and algebraic groups over them will lead to applications in representation theory, number theory, and arithmetic geometry. A possible approach is through the powerful model theoretic motivic integration of Hrushovski and Kazhdan. I will discuss explicit consequences of their work, and a knowledge of model theory is not required.
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Actuarial Science Seminar
Speaker: Ken Guthrie and Jim Miles (Society of Actuaries)
Time: Tuesday, April 14, 2009 at 5:00 pm
Place: PB 38 (UConn - Storrs)
Abstract: As a profession, Actuaries have redefined risk. Traditionally defined as “loss,” today’s actuaries have redefined risk as “opportunity” by expanding the roles of actuaries and the reach of the profession to practices and industries that have not traditionally used the unique skills offered by this growing profession. Join us to learn more about the emerging opportunities presented by what Forbes is calling “one of the best jobs for new graduates now” (January 9, 2009).
This one-hour informational meeting with Society of Actuaries (SOA) representatives, Ken Guthrie, Managing Director of Education and Jim Miles, FSA, MAAA, Actuarial Education Consultant, will discuss the future of the profession, the CERA credential, an overview of emerging opportunities in non-traditional fields, and the SOA education and exam process. Students will have the opportunity to ask questions. All interested students are encouraged to attend.
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S.I.G.M.A. Seminar
Speaker: Matthew Cecil (University of Connecticut)
Time: Wednesday, April 15, 2009 at 4:30 pm
Place: MSB 118 (UConn - Storrs)
Abstract: Newton's second law of motion, $F=ma$, is a differential equation that
describes the motion of a particle subject to a potential. One can derive
this equation from the principle of least action (via a calculus of
variations argument), which states that the path a particle takes is the
one that minimizes a certain integral of potential and kinetic energy (the
classical action). The Feynman integral describes the evolution of a
quantum system in terms of an integral over `all possible paths' weighted
by their classical action. As a result, it provides a `intuitive' way to
derive classical behavior from the quantum description. As conceived,
however, the Feynman integral is not mathematically sensible. I'll
describe the necessary physical background, motivation, and derivation of
the Feynman integral in the simplest cases. Finally, I'll indicate how,
with a little help from probability, the integral can (sometimes) be made
mathematically precise.
Comments: Free Donuts (courtesy of GSS) and Coffee at 4:15
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UConn Math Club
Speaker: UConn Alumni
Time: Wednesday, April 15, 2009 at 5:30 pm
Place: MSB 319 (UConn - Storrs)
Abstract: Anyone planning to be a math teacher after college is invited to this panel discussion. UConn Math Ed. graduates will talk about their experiences teaching math in high school and junior high school. They will give practical advice and answer any questions you may have.
Comments: Free Refreshments
Additional Comments: Email: uconnmathclub@gmail.com Facebook group: UConn Math Club
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Colloquium
Speaker: Jennifer Beineke (Western New England College)
Faculty Sponsor: Keith Conrad
Time: Thursday, April 16, 2009 at 4:00 pm
Place: IMS 20 (UConn - Storrs)
Abstract: Movies have great moments and sports have great moments, but mathematics has the greatest moments of all. In this talk, we will explore moments of the Riemann zeta function (also known as mean values), and we will revisit the momentous discoveries of Hardy, Littlewood, and Ingham in the 1920s. We will also discuss memorable moments that today's number theorists have encountered as they work on open problems related to the Riemann Hypothesis.
Comments: This is a part of the Awards Day Ceremony. Everyone is welcome!
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Analysis and Probability Seminar
Speaker: Ahmadreza Azimifard (Stony Brook University)
Time: Friday, April 17, 2009 at 3:00 pm
Place: MSB 319 (UConn - Storrs)
Abstract: In this talk we shall discuss various notions of amenability for commutative
hypergroups. We show that a commutative hypergroup K
is a-amenable iff L^1(K), the hypergroup algebra, is a-left amenable for all a in widehat{K}. Consequently, a Sturm-Liouville hypergroup with positive index is a-amenable iff a=1. We also show that the majority
of polynomial hypergroups (of several variables) enjoy the same property,
however, in the strong cases, their dual hypergroup algebras are
approximately amenable.
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Logic Seminar
Speaker: Mia Minnes (MIT)
Time: Monday, April 20, 2009 at 4:45 pm
Place: Exley Science Center 618 (Wesleyan University)
Abstract: A finite automaton perspective on linear orders
Abstract: Computable model theorists have analysed many classical
theorems on linear orders. A standard (and important) example is that
although any infinite linear order must contain either an infinite
increasing chain or an infinite decreasing chain, there is a
computable linear order with no computable suborder of type ω or ω*.
We will show that this theorem fails in the automatic structures
setting. This pronounced difference between computable model theory
and automatic model theory is the departure point for further
questions, some of which will be mentioned in the talk.
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Actuarial Science Seminar
Speaker: Clayton Cutler and Paul Joss (HIMCO)
Time: Tuesday, April 21, 2009 at 4:30 pm
Place: MSB 411 (UConn - Storrs)
Abstract: While the current financial crisis is being blamed on a variety of financial products that read like some sort of alphabet soup, all of it can be boiled down to one concept: Credit Risk. Credit Risk is involved in nearly every investment and there are many different ways to measure this risk retrospectively and prospectively. This presentation will discuss the basics of Credit Risk, how Credit Risk affects insurers and some of the basic products and methods available in the market to help mitigate and manage exposure to Credit Risk.
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S.I.G.M.A. Seminar
Speaker: Jonathan Axtell (University of Connecticut)
Time: Wednesday, April 22, 2009 at 4:30 pm
Place: MSB 118 (UConn - Storrs)
Abstract: Vertex operator algebras, or VOA, have become a useful tool in
representation theory and algebraic geometry.
In his 1991 PhD thesis, Y.Z. Huang showed how to give a geometric
definition of VOA where the product can be viewed as a complex analogue of
the usual product in a Lie algebra, or commutative associative algebra.
We will give some outline of this definition. The basic idea is to replace binary trees in the case of binary products with "spheres with tubes" in the case of vertex operator products.
Comments: Free Donuts (courtesy of GSS) and Coffee at 4:15
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UConn Math Club
Speaker: Thomas J. McCabe (McCabe Software)
Time: Wednesday, April 22, 2009 at 5:30 pm
Place: CLAS 105 (UConn - Storrs)
Abstract: This talk will describe the role of mathematicians and computer scientists as business leaders and entrepreneurs. It will walk through the process of nurturing a new idea and then bootstrapping the idea into a successful business.
The initial steps of testing the validity and business appeal of a new idea will be discussed. A minimalist but powerful procedure to either get a customer or refine the offering will be presented. Next the adventurous culture of launching a company “on the fly” will be described.
Bootstrapping from initial idea to a successful business venture will be discussed with both first hand experience and pragmatic advice. The examples will be of mathematical graph theory, the cyclomatic complexity of algorithms, widely used in industry and taught at many universities. The speaker will relate his own personal experience launching from idea to a successful company.
When Tom sat in your chair, some long years ago, a visiting lecturer held up a book saying “if you know this you could have a huge impact on business”. Tom got inspired, the seed of a dream was sown. Tom's back to repay the debt, and kindle a few more dreams. He’s bringing the book too!
Note: The speaker is a 1966 UConn alumnus.
Comments: Pizza will be served after talk in CLAS 420. Graduate students and students in computer science, business, and statistics are welcome.
Additional Comments: Email: uconnmathclub@gmail.com Facebook group: UConn Math Club
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Analysis and Probability Seminar
Speaker: Robert Wooster (University of Connecticut)
Time: Friday, April 24, 2009 at 3:00 pm
Place: MSB 319 (UConn - Storrs)
Abstract: An evolution system of measures for non-autonomous stochastic differential equation is a natural generalization of an invariant measure for an autonomous SDE. In this talk I'll give the definition of an evolution system of measures and give some examples where we can explicitly compute the densities of such families of measures for an Ornstein-Uhlenbeck process with Gaussian noise and then for alpha stable noise.
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Colloquium
Speaker: Miklos Bona (University of Florida)
Faculty Sponsor: Tom Roby
Time: Friday, April 24, 2009 at 4:00 pm
Place: MSB 118 (UConn - Storrs)
Abstract: Let us select two combinatorial objects at random. What is the
probability that they share an important property, such as a parameter or
a shape? For instance, if we select two permutations of the same length at
random, what is the probability that they have the same number of cycles?
Or, if we select two labeled trees on n vertices at random, what is the
probability that they are isomorphic?
We will look at this family of questions, and present three proof techniques.
First, direct bijective arguments, second "horizontal" generating functions,
and third, "vertical" generating functions. This third technique will be
illustrated by an interesting argument from analytic combinatorics that is
joint work with Philippe Flajolet.
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Actuarial Science Seminar
Speaker: Hubert Mueller (Towers Perrin)
Time: Tuesday, April 28, 2009 at 4:45 pm
Place: MSB 411 (UConn - Storrs)
Abstract: This presentation is intended to provide an update on recent trends and developments in the US annuity market, covering product and market trends, risk management, current challenges for companies, and an outlook into the future. In particular, the session will provide details on common hedging practices in the Variable Annuity market.
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Analysis and Probability Seminar
Speaker: Ron Blei (University of Connecticut)
Time: Friday, May 1, 2009 at 3:00 pm
Place: MSB 319 (UConn - Storrs)
Comments: This will be a gentle introduction to some ongoing work - graduate students are encouraged to attend!
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PDE and Image Analysis Seminar
Speaker: Yu Yuan (Institute for Advanced Study)
Time: Friday, May 1, 2009 at 4:00 pm
Place: MSB 319 (UConn - Storrs)
Abstract: We survey some recent results on Hessian, gradient estimates,
regularity, and global rigidity for special Lagrangian equations with
certain convexity. The gradient graphs of the solutions are minimal
Lagrangian submanifolds in Euclidean space. The special Lagrangian
equations in the Pseudo-Euclidean setting are just Monge-Ampere
equations, for which one has the corresponding classic positive results
and counterexamples. Part of the work is joint with Warren, some also
with Chen.
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Actuarial Science Seminar
Speaker: Tom Murawski (joint with Louis Lombardi) (University of Connecticut)
Time: Friday, May 1, 2009 at 4:30 pm
Place: MSB 411 (UConn - Storrs)
Abstract: This project will examine the surplus of a life insurance company in the context of fair value accounting. Statistical methods and stochastic principles will be employed to study the impact of specific economic and financial factors on the surplus. Changes in the term structure of interest rates, market volatility, hedging imperfections, policyholder behavior, credit ratings, and taxes are some of the factors that will be analyzed. After identifying key components that influence surplus, a model will be constructed to show how the surplus behaves under several assumptions and scenarios.
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