Markov Chain Modelling for Reliability Estimation of Engineering Systems at Different Scales - Some Considerations

Abstract: The concepts of probability, statistics and stochastic theory are being successfully used in structural engineering. Markov Chain modelling is a simple stochastic process model that has found its application in both describing stochastic evolution of system and in system reliability estimation. The recent developments in Markov Chain Monte Carlo and the possible integration of Bayesian theory within Markov Chain theory have enhanced its application possibilities. However, the application possibility can be furthered to range over wider scales of application (perhaps from nano- to macro-) by considering the developments in Physics (in particular Quantum Physics). This paper tries to present the results of quantum physics that would help in interpretation of transition probability matrix. However, care has to be taken in the choice of densities in computing the transition probability matrix. The paper is based on available literature, and the aim is only to make an attempt to show how Markov Chain can be used to model systems at various scales.


Symmetries of quadratic forms classes and of quadratic surds continued fractions. Part I: A Poincar\'e model for the de Sitter world

Abstract: The problem of the classification of the indefinite binary quadratic forms with integer coefficients is solved introducing a special partition of the de Sitter world, where the coefficients of the forms lie, into separate domains. Every class of indefinite forms, under the action of the special linear group acting on the integer plane lattice, has a finite and well defined number of representatives inside each one of such domains. This property belongs exclusively to rational points on the one-sheeted hyperboloid. In the second part we will show how to obtain the symmetry type of a class as well as its number of points in all domains from a sole representative of that class.


Cartier isomorphism and Hodge Theory in the non-commutative case

Abstract: These are lecture notes from Clay Summer School in Goettingen, in 2006; the lectures were an attempt at an elementary introduction to math.KT/0611623.


Symmetric Homology of Algebras

Abstract: In this note, we outline the general development of a theory of symmetric homology of algebras, an analog of cyclic homology where the cyclic groups are replaced by symmetric groups. This theory is developed using the framework of crossed simplicial groups and the homological algebra of module-valued functors. The symmetric homology of group algebras is related to stable homotopy theory. Two spectral sequences for computing symmetric homology are constructed. The relation to cyclic homology is discussed and some conjectures and questions towards further work are discussed.


Equivariant homotopy and deformations of diffeomorphisms

Abstract: We present a way of constructing and deforming diffeomorphisms of manifolds endowed with a Lie group action. This is applied to the study of exotic diffeomorphisms and involutions of spheres and to the equivariant homotopy of Lie groups.


The equivariant cohomology of weighted projective space

Abstract: We describe the integral equivariant cohomology ring of a weighted projective space in terms of piecewise polynomials, and thence by generators and relations. We deduce that the ring is a perfect invariant, and prove a Chern class formula for weighted projective bundles.


A Littlewood-Richardson rule for Grassmannian Permutations

Abstract: We give a combinatorial rule for computing intersection numbers on a flag manifold which come from products of Schubert classes pulled back from Grassmannian projections. This rule generalizes the known rule for Grassmannians.


Intransitive geometries

Abstract: A lemma of Tits establishes a connection between the simple connectivity of an incidence geometry and the universal completion of an amalgam induced by a sufficiently transitive group of automorphisms of that geometry. In the present paper, we generalize this lemma to intransitive geometries, thus opening the door for numerous applications. We treat ourselves some amalgams related to intransitive actions of finite orthogonal groups, as a first class of examples.


On the construction of Nadel multiplier ideal sheaves and the limiting behavior of the Ricci flow

Abstract: In this note we construct Nadel multiplier ideal sheaves using the Ricci flow on Fano manifolds. This extends a result of Phong, Sesum and Sturm. These sheaves, like their counterparts constructed by Nadel for the continuity method, can be used to obtain an existence criterion for Kahler-Einstein metrics.


Every sum system is divisible

Abstract: We show that every sum system is divisible. Combined with B. V. R. Bhat and R. Srinivasan's result, this shows that every product system arising from a sum system (and every generalized CCR flow) is either of type I or type III. A necessarily and sufficient condition for such a product system to be of type I is obtained.


On similarity classes of well-rounded sublattices of $\mathbb Z^2$

Abstract: A lattice is called well-rounded if its minimal vectors span the corresponding Euclidean space. In this paper we study the similarity classes of well-rounded sublattices of ${\mathbb Z}^2$. We relate the set of all such similarity classes to a subset of primitive Pythagorean triples, and prove that it has structure of a noncommutative infinitely generated monoid. We discuss the structure of a given similarity class, and define a zeta function corresponding to each similarity class. We relate it to Dedekind zeta of ${\mathbb Z}[i]$, and investigate the growth of some related Dirichlet series, which reflect on the distribution of well-rounded lattices. Finally, we construct a sequence of similarity classes of well-rounded sublattices of ${\mathbb Z}^2$, which gives good circle packing density and converges to the hexagonal lattice as fast as possible with respect to a natural metric we define.


On the mean square of the divisor function in short intervals

Abstract: We provide upper bounds for the mean square integral $$ \int_X^{2X}(\Delta_k(x+h) - \Delta_k(x))^2 dx \qquad(h = h(X)\gg1, h = o(x) {\roman{as}} X\to\infty) $$ where $h$ lies in a suitable range. For $k\ge2$ a fixed integer, $\Delta_k(x)$ is the error term in the asymptotic formula for the summatory function of the divisor function $d_k(n)$, generated by $\zeta^k(s)$.


On determination of periods of geometric continued fractions for two-dimensional algebraic hyperbolic operators

Abstract: For a given sequence of positive integers we make an explicit construction of a reduced hyperbolic operator in SL(2,z) with the sequence as a period of a geometric continued fraction in the sense of Klein. Further we experimentally study an algorithm to construct a period for an arbitrary operator of SL(2,z) (the Gauss Reduction Theory).


On families of $BS_{can}$ lagrangian tori in projective spaces

Abstract: This small note contains two simple remarks about Bohr - Sommerfeld with respect to the anticanonical class lagrangian tori in the projective spaces, which are the most popular examples of monotone symplectic manifolds.


Similarity classes of 3x3 matrices over a local principal ideal ring

Abstract: In this paper similarity classes of three by three matrices over a local principal ideal commutative ring are analyzed. When the residue field is finite, a generating function for the number of similarity classes for all finite quotients of the ring is computed explicitly.


The group of automorphisms of the first Weyl algebra in prime characteristic and the restriction map

Abstract: Let $K$ be a {\em perfect} field of characteristic $p>0$, $A_1:=K< x, \der | \der x- x\der =1>$ be the first Weyl algebra and $Z:=K[X:=x^p, Y:=\der^p]$ be its centre. It is proved that $(i)$ the restriction map $\res :\Aut_K(A_1)\ra \Aut_K(Z), \s \mapsto \s|_Z$, is a monomorphism with $\im (\res) = \G :=\{\tau \in \Aut_K(Z) | \CJ (\tau) =1\}$ where $\CJ (\tau) $ is the Jacobian of $\tau$ (note that $\Aut_K(Z)=K^*\ltimes \G$ and if $K$ is {\em not} perfect then $\im (\res) \neq \G$); $(ii)$ the bijection $\res : \Aut_K(A_1) \ra \G$ is a monomorphism of infinite dimensional algebraic groups which is {\em not} an isomorphism (even if $K$ is algebraically closed); $(iii)$ an explicit formula for $\res^{-1}$ is found via differential operators $\CD (Z)$ on $Z$ and negative powers of the Fronenius map $F$. Proofs are based on the following (non-obvious) equality proved in the paper: $$ (\frac{d}{dx}+f)^p= (\frac{d}{dx})^p+\frac{d^{p-1}f}{dx^{p-1}}+f^p, f\in K[x].$$


Classifying finite localizations of quasi-coherent sheaves

Abstract: Given a quasi-compact, quasi-separated scheme X, a bijection between the tensor localizing subcategories of finite type in Qcoh(X) and the set of all subsets $Y\subseteq X$ of the form $Y=\bigcup_{i\in\Omega}Y_i$, with $X\setminus Y_i$ quasi-compact and open for all $i\in\Omega$, is established. As an application, there is constructed an isomorphism of ringed spaces (X,O_X)-->(Spec(Qcoh(X)),O_{Qcoh(X)}), where $(Spec(Qcoh(X)),O_{Qcoh(X)})$ is a ringed space associated to the lattice of tensor localizing subcategories of finite type. Also, a bijective correspondence between the tensor thick subcategories of perfect complexes $\perf(X)$ and the tensor localizing subcategories of finite type in Qcoh(X) is established.


Kontsevich formality and PBW algebras

Abstract: This paper is based on the author's paper "Koszul duality in deformation quantization, I", with some improvements. In particular, an Introduction is added, and the convergence of the spectral sequence in Lemma 2.1 is rigorously proven. Some informal discussion in Section 1.5 is added.


Erratum to: Deformation Quantization in Algebraic Geometry

Abstract: This note contains a correction of the proofs of the main results of the paper [A. Yekutieli, Deformation quantization in algebraic geometry, Adv. Math. 198 (2005), 383-432]. The results are correct as originally stated.


Some inequalities for $(\alpha, \beta)$-normal operators in Hilbert spaces

Abstract: An operator $T$ acting on a Hilbert space is called $(\alpha ,\beta)$-normal ($0\leq \alpha \leq 1\leq \beta $) if \begin{equation*} \alpha ^{2}T^{\ast }T\leq TT^{\ast}\leq \beta ^{2}T^{\ast}T. \end{equation*} In this paper we establish various inequalities between the operator norm and its numerical radius of $(\alpha ,\beta)$-normal operators in Hilbert spaces. For this purpose, we employ some classical inequalities for vectors in inner product spaces.


Counterexample to a geodesic length conjecture on the 2-sphere

Abstract: Paper withdrawn by the author.


The Egorov theorem for transverse Dirac type operators on foliated manifolds

Abstract: Egorov's theorem for transversally elliptic operators, acting on sections of a vector bundle over a compact foliated manifold, is proved. This theorem relates the quantum evolution of transverse pseudodifferential operators determined by a first order transversally elliptic operator with the (classical) evolution of its symbols determined by the parallel transport along the orbits of the associated transverse bicharacteristic flow. For a particular case of a transverse Dirac operator, the transverse bicharacteristic flow is shown to be given by the transverse geodesic flow and the parallel transport by the parallel transport determined by the transverse Levi-Civita connection. These results allow us to describe the noncommutative geodesic flow in noncommutative geometry of Riemannian foliations.


Complex algebraic curves. Annuli

Abstract: We provide the full classification of algebraic embeddings of $\mathbb{C}^*$ into $\mathbb{C}^2$ satisfying certain regularity condition, which conjecturally holds for all algebraic maps from $\mathbb{C}^*$ into $\mathbb{C}^2$. The resulting list comprises 1 smooth family, 18 discrete families and 4 special cases. Any embedding known to us can be reduced to one of this list by a de Jonqui\`ere transform and a suitable change of variables. The classification uses in general tools from previous work "Complex algebraic curves via Poincare--Hopf formula. I. Parametric lines." (Pacific. J. Math. 229 (2007) No. 2, 307--338): we carefully estimate Milnor numbers of singularities that may appear in the embedding of $\mathbb{C}^*$. We use the regularity condition to bound the sum of so--called codimensions of singular points. The detailed discussion of this condition can be found in http://www.mimuw.edu.pl/~mcboro/pliki/artykuly/curv4.pdf


Harnack inequality and applications for stochastic generalized porous media equations

Abstract: By using coupling and Girsanov transformations, the dimension-free Harnack inequality and the strong Feller property are proved for transition semigroups of solutions to a class of stochastic generalized porous media equations. As applications, explicit upper bounds of the $L^p$-norm of the density as well as hypercontractivity, ultracontractivity and compactness of the corresponding semigroup are derived.


Major Indices and Perfect Bases for Complex Reflection Groups

Abstract: It is shown that, under mild conditions, a complex reflection group $G(r,p,n)$ may be decomposed into a set-wise direct product of cyclic subgroups. This property is then used to extend the notion of major index and a corresponding Hilbert series identity to these and other closely related groups.


Curve crossing for random walks reflected at their maximum

Abstract: Let $R_n=\max_{0\leq j\leq n}S_j-S_n$ be a random walk $S_n$ reflected in its maximum. Except in the trivial case when $P(X\ge0)=1$, $R_n$ will pass over a horizontal boundary of any height in a finite time, with probability 1. We extend this by giving necessary and sufficient conditions for finiteness of passage times of $R_n$ above certain curved (power law) boundaries, as well. The intuition that a degree of heaviness of the negative tail of the distribution of the increments of $S_n$ is necessary for passage of $R_n$ above a high level is correct in most, but not all, cases, as we show. Conditions are also given for the finiteness of the expected passage time of $R_n$ above linear and square root boundaries.


Possible connections between whiskered categories and groupoids, many object Leibniz algebras, automorphism structures and local-to-global questions

Abstract: We define the notion of whiskered categories and groupoids, showing that whiskered groupoids have a commutator theory. So also do whiskered $R$-categories, thus answering questions of what might be `commutative versions' of these theories. We relate these ideas to the theory of Leibniz algebras, but the commutator theory here does not satisfy the Leibniz identity. We also discuss potential applications and extensions, for example to resolutions of monoids.


Vector bundles on degenerations of elliptic curves and Yang-Baxter equations

Abstract: In this paper we introduce the notion of a geometric associative r-matrix attached to a genus one fibration with a section and irreducible fibres. It allows us to study degenerations of solutions of the classical Yang-Baxter equation using the approach of Polishchuk. We also calculate certain solutions of the classical, quantum and associative Yang-Baxter equations obtained from moduli spaces of (semi-)stable vector bundles on Weierstrass cubic curves.


Derived Semidistributive Lattices

Abstract: For L a finite lattice, let C(L) denote the set of pairs g = (g_0,g_1) such that g_0 is a lower cover of g_1 and order it as follows: g <= d iff g_0 <= d_0, g_1 <= d_1, but not g_1 <= d_0. Let C(L,g) denote the connected component of g in this poset. Our main result states that C(L,g) is a semidistributive lattice if L is semidistributive, and that C(L,g) is a bounded lattice if L is bounded. Let S_n be the permutohedron on n letters and T_n be the associahedron on n+1 letters. Explicit computations show that C(S_n,a) = S_{n-1} and C(T_n,a) = T_{n-1}, up to isomorphism, whenever a is an atom. These results are consequences of new characterizations of finite join semidistributive and finite lower bounded lattices: (i) a finite lattice is join semidistributive if and only if the projection sending g in C(L) to g_0 in L creates pullbacks, (ii) a finite join semidistributive lattice is lower bounded if and only if it has a strict facet labelling. Strict facet labellings, as defined here, are generalization of the tools used by Barbut et al. to prove that lattices of Coxeter groups are bounded.


Weak Solutions of Stochastic Differential Equations over the Field of p-Adic Numbers

Abstract: Study of stochastic differential equations on the field of p-adic numbers was initiated by the second author and has been developed by the first author, who proved several results for the p-adic case, similar to the theory of ordinary stochastic integral with respect to Levy processes on the Euclidean spaces. In this article, we present an improved definition of a stochastic integral on the field and prove the joint (time and space) continuity of the local time for p-adic stable processes. Then we use the method of random time change to obtain sufficient conditions for the existence of a weak solution of a stochastic differential equation on the field, driven by the p-adic stable process, with a Borel measurable coefficient.


The Minimum Rank Problem: a counterexample

Abstract: We provide a counterexample to a recent conjecture that the minimum rank of every sign pattern matrix can be realized by a rational matrix. We use one of the equivalences of the conjecture and some results from projective geometry. As a consequence of the counterexample, we show that there is a graph for which the minimum rank over the reals is strictly smaller than the minimum rank over the rationals. We also make some comments on the minimum rank of sign pattern matrices over different subfields of $\mathbb R$.


Generators of simple Lie algebras in arbitrary characteristics

Abstract: In this paper we study the minimal number of generators for simple Lie algebras in characteristic 0 or p > 3. We show that any such algebra can be generated by 2 elements. We also examine the 'one and a half generation' property, i.e. when every non-zero element can be completed to a generating pair. We show that classical simple algebras have this property, and that the only simple Cartan type algebras of type W which have this property are the Zassenhaus algebras.


Weighted projective spaces and minimal nilpotent orbits

Abstract: We investigate (twisted) rings of differential operators on the resolution of singularities of a particular irreducible component of the (Zarisky) closure of the minimal orbit $\bar O_{\mathrm{min}}$ of $\mathfrak{sp}_{2n}$, intersected with the Borel subalgebra $\mathfrak n_+$ of $\mathfrak{sp}_{2n}$, using toric geometry and show that they are homomorphic images of a subalgebra of the Universal Enveloping Algebra (UEA) of $\mathfrak{sp}_{2n}$, which contains the maximal parabolic subalgebra $\mathfrak p$ determining the minimal nilpotent orbit. Further, using Fourier transforms on Weyl algebras, we show that (twisted) rings of well-suited weighted projective spaces are obtained from the same subalgebra. Finally, investigating this subalgebra from the representation-theoretical point of view, we find new primitive ideals and rediscover old ones for the UEA of $\mathfrak{sp}_{2n}$ coming from the aforementioned resolution of singularities.


Dynamics of Jackson networks: perturbation theory

Abstract: We introduce a new formalism for dealing with networks of queues. The formalism is based on the Doi-Peliti second quantization method for reaction diffusion systems. As a demonstration of the method's utility we compute perturbatively the different time busy-busy correlations between two servers in a Jackson network.


On asymptotics of eigenvectors of large sample covariance matrix

Abstract: Let \{$X_{ij}$\}, $i,j=...,$ be a double array of i.i.d. complex random variables with $EX_{11}=0,E|X_{11}|^2=1$ and $E|X_{11}|^4<\infty$, and let $A_n=\frac{1}{N}T_n^{{1}/{2}}X_nX_n^*T_n^{{1}/{2}}$, where $T_n^{{1}/{2}}$ is the square root of a nonnegative definite matrix $T_n$ and $X_n$ is the $n\times N$ matrix of the upper-left corner of the double array. The matrix $A_n$ can be considered as a sample covariance matrix of an i.i.d. sample from a population with mean zero and covariance matrix $T_n$, or as a multivariate $F$ matrix if $T_n$ is the inverse of another sample covariance matrix. To investigate the limiting behavior of the eigenvectors of $A_n$, a new form of empirical spectral distribution is defined with weights defined by eigenvectors and it is then shown that this has the same limiting spectral distribution as the empirical spectral distribution defined by equal weights. Moreover, if \{$X_{ij}$\} and $T_n$ are either real or complex and some additional moment assumptions are made then linear spectral statistics defined by the eigenvectors of $A_n$ are proved to have Gaussian limits, which suggests that the eigenvector matrix of $A_n$ is nearly Haar distributed when $T_n$ is a multiple of the identity matrix, an easy consequence for a Wishart matrix.


Differential inequalities of continuous functions and removing singularities of Rado type for J-holomorphic maps

Abstract: We consider a continuous function $f$ on a domain in $\mathbf C^n$ satisfying the inequality that $|\bar \partial f|\leq |f|$ off its zero set. The main conclusion is that the zero set of $f$ is a complex variety. We also obtain removable singularity theorem of Rado type for J-holomorphic maps. Let $\Omega$ be an open subset in $\mathbf C$ and let $E$ be a closed polar subset of $\Omega$. Let $u$ be a continuous map from $\Omega$ into an almost complex manifold $(M,J)$ with $J$ of class $C^1$. We show that if $u$ is J-holomorphic on $\Omega\setminus E$ then it is J-holomorphic on $\Omega$.


Tropical bases by regular projections

Abstract: We consider the tropical variety $\mathcal{T}(I)$ of a prime ideal $I$ generated by the polynomials $f_1, ..., f_r$ and revisit the regular projection technique introduced by Bieri and Groves from a computational point of view. In particular, we show that $I$ has a short tropical basis of cardinality at most $r + \codim I + 1$ at the price of increased degrees, and we provide a computational description of these bases.


Conical limit sets and continued fractions

Abstract: Inspired by questions of convergence in continued fraction theory, Erd\H{o}s, Piranian and Thron studied the possible sets of divergence for arbitrary sequences of M\"obius maps acting on the Riemann sphere, $S^2$. By identifying $S^2$ with the boundary of three-dimensional hyperbolic space, $H^3$, we show that these sets of divergence are precisely the sets that arise as conical limit sets of subsets of $H^3$. Using hyperbolic geometry, we give simple geometric proofs of the theorems of Erd\H{o}s, Piranian and Thron that generalise to arbitrary dimensions. New results are also obtained about the class of conical limit sets, for example, that it is closed under locally quasisymmetric homeomorphisms. Applications are given to continued fractions.


A distance based test on random trees

Abstract: In this paper, we address the question of comparison between populations of trees. We study an statistical test based on the distance between empirical mean trees, as an analog of the two sample z statistic for comparing two means. Despite its simplicity, we can report that the test is quite powerful to separate distributions with different means but it does not distinguish between different populations with the same mean, a more complicated test should be applied in that setting. The performance of the test is studied via simulations on Galton-Watson branching processes. We also show an application to a real data problem in genomics.


The infinite valley for a recurrent random walk in random environment

Abstract: We consider a one-dimensional recurrent random walk in random environment (RWRE). We show that the - suitably centered - empirical distributions of the RWRE converge weakly to a certain limit law which describes the stationary distribution of a random walk in an infinite valley. The construction of the infinite valley goes back to Golosov. As a consequence, we show weak convergence for both the maximal local time and the self-intersection local time of the RWRE and also determine the exact constant in the almost sure upper limit of the maximal local time.


The inner automorphism 3-group of a strict 2-group

Abstract: Any group $G$ gives rise to a 2-group of inner automorphisms, $\mathrm{INN}(G)$. It is an old result by Segal that the nerve of this is the universal $G$-bundle. We discuss that, similarly, for every 2-group $G_{(2)}$ there is a 3-group $\mathrm{INN}(G_{(2)})$ and a slightly smaller 3-group $\mathrm{INN}_0(G_{(2)})$ of inner automorphisms. We describe these for $G_{(2)}$ any strict 2-group, discuss how $\mathrm{INN}_0(G_{(2)})$ can be understood as arising from the mapping cone of the identity on $G_{(2)}$ and show that its underlying 2-groupoid structure fits into a short exact sequence $G_{(2)} \to \mathrm{INN}_0(G_{(2)}) \to \Sigma G_{(2)}$. As a consequence, $\mathrm{INN}_0(G_{(2)})$ encodes the properties of the universal $G_{(2)}$ 2-bundle.


A universal deformation formula for Connes-Moscovici's Hopf algebra without any projective structure

Abstract: We construct a universal deformation formula for Connes-Moscovici's Hopf algebra without any projective structure using Fedosov's quantization of symplectic diffeomorphisms.


The multiplicity of weights in nonprimitive pairs of weights

Abstract: For each type of classical Lie algebra, we list the dominant highest weights $\zeta$ for which $(\zeta;\mu_i)$ is not a primitive pair and the weight space $V_{\mu_i}$ has dimension one where $\mu_i$ are the highest long and short roots in each case. These dimension one weight spaces lead to examples of nilmanifolds for which we cannot prove or disprove the density of closed geodesics.


Vanishing moment method and moment solutions for second order fully nonlinear partial differential equations

Abstract: This paper concerns with numerical approximations of solutions of second order fully nonlinear partial differential equations (PDEs). A new notion of weak solutions, called moment solutions, is introduced for second order fully nonlinear PDEs. Unlike viscosity solutions, moment solutions are defined by a constructive method, called vanishing moment method, hence, they can be readily computed by existing numerical methods such as finite difference, finite element, spectral Galerkin, and discontinuous Galerkin methods with "guaranteed" convergence. The main idea of the proposed vanishing moment method is to approximate a second order fully nonlinear PDE by a higher order, in particular, a fourth order quasilinear PDE. We show by various numerical experiments the viability of the proposed vanishing moment method. All our numerical experiments show the convergence of the vanishing moment method, and they also show that moment solutions coincide with viscosity solutions whenever the latter exist.


Spectra of random linear combinations of matrices defined via representations and Coxeter generators of the symmetric group

Abstract: We consider the asymptotic behavior as $n\to\infty$ of the spectra of random matrices of the form \[\frac{1}{\sqrt{n-1}}\sum_{k=1}^{n-1}Z_{nk}\rho_n ((k,k+1)),\] where for each $n$ the random variables $Z_{nk}$ are i.i.d. standard Gaussian and the matrices $\rho_n((k,k+1))$ are obtained by applying an irreducible unitary representation $\rho_n$ of the symmetric group on $\{1,2,...,n\}$ to the transposition $(k,k+1)$ that interchanges $k$ and $k+1$ [thus, $\rho_n((k,k+1))$ is both unitary and self-adjoint, with all eigenvalues either +1 or -1]. Irreducible representations of the symmetric group on $\{1,2,...,n\}$ are indexed by partitions $\lambda_n$ of $n$. A consequence of the results we establish is that if $\lambda_{n,1}\ge\lambda_{n,2}\ge...\ge0$ is the partition of $n$ corresponding to $\rho_n$, $\mu_{n,1}\ge\mu_{n,2}\ge >...\ge0$ is the corresponding conjugate partition of $n$ (i.e., the Young diagram of $\mu_n$ is the transpose of the Young diagram of $\lambda_n$), $\lim_{n\to\infty}\frac{\lambda_{n,i}}{n}=p_i$ for each $i\ge1$, and $\lim_{n\to\infty}\frac{\mu_{n,j}}{n}=q_j$ for each $j\ge1$, then the spectral measure of the resulting random matrix converges in distribution to a random probability measure that is Gaussian with random mean $\theta Z$ and variance $1-\theta^2$, where $\theta$ is the constant $\sum_ip_i^2-\sum_jq_j^2$ and $Z$ is a standard Gaussian random variable.


Extensions of McCoy Rings

Abstract: A ring $R$ is said to be right McCoy if the equation $f(x)g(x)=0,$ where $f(x)$ and $g(x)$ are nonzero polynomials of $R[x],$ implies that there exists nonzero $s \in R$ such that $f(x)s = 0$. It is proven that no proper (triangular) matrix ring is one-sided McCoy. If there exists the classical right quotient ring $Q$ of a ring $R$, then $R$ is right McCoy if and only if $Q$ is right McCoy. It is shown that for many polynomial extensions, a ring $R$ is right McCoy if and only if the polynomial extension over $R$ is right McCoy. Other basic extensions of right McCoy rings are also studied.\leftskip0truemm \rightskip0truemm \{\it Keywords}: matrix ring, McCoy ring, polynomial ring, upper triangular matrix ring.


On Dissipative Quadratic Stochastic Operators

Abstract: In present paper we introduce the notion of dissipative quadratic stochastic operator and cubic stochastic operator. We prove necessary conditions for dissipativity of quadratic stochastic operators. Besides, it is studied certain limit behavior of such operators. Finally we prove ergodic theorem for dissipative operators.


Reducing variance in univariate smoothing

Abstract: A variance reduction technique in nonparametric smoothing is proposed: at each point of estimation, form a linear combination of a preliminary estimator evaluated at nearby points with the coefficients specified so that the asymptotic bias remains unchanged. The nearby points are chosen to maximize the variance reduction. We study in detail the case of univariate local linear regression. While the new estimator retains many advantages of the local linear estimator, it has appealing asymptotic relative efficiencies. Bandwidth selection rules are available by a simple constant factor adjustment of those for local linear estimation. A simulation study indicates that the finite sample relative efficiency often matches the asymptotic relative efficiency for moderate sample sizes. This technique is very general and has a wide range of applications.


Quasi-Nilpotent Operators on Locally Convex Spaces

Abstract: In this article we extend the notion of quasi-nilpotent equivalent operators, introduced by Colojoara and Foias \cite{co1} for Banach spaces, to the class of bounded operators on sequentially complete locally convex spaces.


Confidence sets for split points in decision trees

Abstract: We investigate the problem of finding confidence sets for split points in decision trees (CART). Our main results establish the asymptotic distribution of the least squares estimators and some associated residual sum of squares statistics in a binary decision tree approximation to a smooth regression curve. Cube-root asymptotics with nonnormal limit distributions are involved. We study various confidence sets for the split point, one calibrated using the subsampling bootstrap, and others calibrated using plug-in estimates of some nuisance parameters. The performance of the confidence sets is assessed in a simulation study. A motivation for developing such confidence sets comes from the problem of phosphorus pollution in the Everglades. Ecologists have suggested that split points provide a phosphorus threshold at which biological imbalance occurs, and the lower endpoint of the confidence set may be interpreted as a level that is protective of the ecosystem. This is illustrated using data from a Duke University Wetlands Center phosphorus dosing study in the Everglades.


Fast rates for support vector machines using Gaussian kernels

Abstract: For binary classification we establish learning rates up to the order of $n^{-1}$ for support vector machines (SVMs) with hinge loss and Gaussian RBF kernels. These rates are in terms of two assumptions on the considered distributions: Tsybakov's noise assumption to establish a small estimation error, and a new geometric noise condition which is used to bound the approximation error. Unlike previously proposed concepts for bounding the approximation error, the geometric noise assumption does not employ any smoothness assumption.


Remarks on symplectic twistor spaces

Abstract: We consider some classical fibre bundles furnished with almost complex structures of twistor type, deduce their integrability in some cases and study \textit{self-holomorphic} sections of a \textit{symplectic} twistor space. With these we define a moduli space of $\omega$-compatible complex structures. We recall the theory of flag manifolds in order to study the Siegel domain and other domains alike, which is the fibre of the referred twistor space. Finally the structure equations for the twistor of a Riemann surface with the canonical symplectic-metric connection are deduced, based on a given conformal coordinate on the surface. We then relate with the moduli space defined previously.


Cram\'{e}r-type large deviations for samples from a finite population

Abstract: Cram\'{e}r-type large deviations for means of samples from a finite population are established under weak conditions. The results are comparable to results for the so-called self-normalized large deviation for independent random variables. Cram\'{e}r-type large deviations for the finite population Student $t$-statistic are also investigated.


Posterior convergence rates of Dirichlet mixtures at smooth densities

Abstract: We study the rates of convergence of the posterior distribution for Bayesian density estimation with Dirichlet mixtures of normal distributions as the prior. The true density is assumed to be twice continuously differentiable. The bandwidth is given a sequence of priors which is obtained by scaling a single prior by an appropriate order. In order to handle this problem, we derive a new general rate theorem by considering a countable covering of the parameter space whose prior probabilities satisfy a summability condition together with certain individual bounds on the Hellinger metric entropy. We apply this new general theorem on posterior convergence rates by computing bounds for Hellinger (bracketing) entropy numbers for the involved class of densities, the error in the approximation of a smooth density by normal mixtures and the concentration rate of the prior. The best obtainable rate of convergence of the posterior turns out to be equivalent to the well-known frequentist rate for integrated mean squared error $n^{-2/5}$ up to a logarithmic factor.


On the design-consistency property of hierarchical Bayes estimators in finite population sampling

Abstract: We obtain a limit of a hierarchical Bayes estimator of a finite population mean when the sample size is large. The limit is in the sense of ordinary calculus, where the sample observations are treated as fixed quantities. Our result suggests a simple way to correct the hierarchical Bayes estimator to achieve design-consistency, a well-known property in the traditional randomization approach to finite population sampling. We also suggest three different measures of uncertainty of our proposed estimator.


On rates of convergence for posterior distributions in infinite-dimensional models

Abstract: This paper introduces a new approach to the study of rates of convergence for posterior distributions. It is a natural extension of a recent approach to the study of Bayesian consistency. In particular, we improve on current rates of convergence for models including the mixture of Dirichlet process model and the random Bernstein polynomial model.


Resolvable designs with large blocks

Abstract: Resolvable designs with two blocks per replicate are studied from an optimality perspective. Because in practice the number of replicates is typically less than the number of treatments, arguments can be based on the dual of the information matrix and consequently given in terms of block concurrences. Equalizing block concurrences for given block sizes is often, but not always, the best strategy. Sufficient conditions are established for various strong optimalities and a detailed study of E-optimality is offered, including a characterization of the E-optimal class. Optimal designs are found to correspond to balanced arrays and an affine-like generalization.


Gegenbauer tau methods with and without spurious eigenvalues

Abstract: It is proven that a class of Gegenbauer tau approximations to a 4th order differential eigenvalue problem of hydrodynamic type provide real, negative and distinct eigenvalues, as is the case for the exact solutions. This class of Gegenbauer tau methods includes Chebyshev and Legendre Galerkin and `inviscid' Galerkin but does not include Chebyshev and Legendre tau. Rigorous and numerical results show that the results are sharp: positive or complex eigenvalues arise outside of this class. The widely used modified tau approach is proved to be equivalent to the Galerkin method.


On the number of support points of maximin and Bayesian optimal designs

Abstract: We consider maximin and Bayesian $D$-optimal designs for nonlinear regression models. The maximin criterion requires the specification of a region for the nonlinear parameters in the model, while the Bayesian optimality criterion assumes that a prior for these parameters is available. On interval parameter spaces, it was observed empirically by many authors that an increase of uncertainty in the prior information (i.e., a larger range for the parameter space in the maximin criterion or a larger variance of the prior in the Bayesian criterion) yields a larger number of support points of the corresponding optimal designs. In this paper, we present analytic tools which are used to prove this phenomenon in concrete situations. The proposed methodology can be used to explain many empirically observed results in the literature. Moreover, it explains why maximin $D$-optimal designs are usually supported at more points than Bayesian $D$-optimal designs.


A random walk approximation to fractional Brownian motion

Abstract: We present a random walk approximation to fractional Brownian motion where the increments of the fractional random walk are defined as a weighted sum of the past increments of a Bernoulli random walk.


Complete enumeration of two-Level orthogonal arrays of strength $d$ with $d+2$ constraints

Abstract: Enumerating nonisomorphic orthogonal arrays is an important, yet very difficult, problem. Although orthogonal arrays with a specified set of parameters have been enumerated in a number of cases, general results are extremely rare. In this paper, we provide a complete solution to enumerating nonisomorphic two-level orthogonal arrays of strength $d$ with $d+2$ constraints for any $d$ and any run size $n=\lambda2^d$. Our results not only give the number of nonisomorphic orthogonal arrays for given $d$ and $n$, but also provide a systematic way of explicitly constructing these arrays. Our approach to the problem is to make use of the recently developed theory of $J$-characteristics for fractional factorial designs. Besides the general theoretical results, the paper presents some results from applications of the theory to orthogonal arrays of strength two, three and four.


Uniformly root-$N$ consistent density estimators for weakly dependent invertible linear processes

Abstract: Convergence rates of kernel density estimators for stationary time series are well studied. For invertible linear processes, we construct a new density estimator that converges, in the supremum norm, at the better, parametric, rate $n^{-1/2}$. Our estimator is a convolution of two different residual-based kernel estimators. We obtain in particular convergence rates for such residual-based kernel estimators; these results are of independent interest.


Metrics for sparse graphs

Abstract: Recently, Bollob\'as, Janson and Riordan introduced a very general family of random graph models, producing inhomogeneous random graphs with $\Theta(n)$ edges. Roughly speaking, there is one model for each {\em kernel}, i.e., each symmetric measurable function from $[0,1]^2$ to the non-negative reals, although the details are much more complicated. A different connection between kernels and random graphs arises in the recent work of Borgs, Chayes, Lov\'asz, S\'os, Szegedy and Vesztergombi. They introduced several natural metrics on dense graphs (graphs with $n$ vertices and $\Theta(n^2)$ edges), showed that these metrics are equivalent, and gave a description of the completion of the space of all graphs with respect to any of these metrics in terms of {\em graphons}, which are essentially bounded kernels. One of the most appealing aspects of this work is the message that sequences of inhomogeneous quasi-random graphs are in a sense completely general: any sequence of dense graphs contains such a subsequence. Our aim here is to briefly survey these results, and then to investigate to what extent they can be generalized to graphs with $o(n^2)$ edges. Although many of the definitions extend in a simple way, the connections between the various metrics, and between the metrics and random graph models, turn out to be much more complicated than in the dense case. We shall prove many partial results, and state even more conjectures and open problems, whose resolution would greatly enhance the currently rather unsatisfactory theory of metrics on sparse graphs. This paper deals mainly with graphs with $o(n^2)$ but $\omega(n)$ edges: a companion paper [arXiv:0812.2656] will discuss the (more problematic still) case of {\em extremely sparse} graphs, with O(n) edges.


Cartesian Bicategories II

Abstract: The notion of cartesian bicategory, introduced by Carboni and Walters for locally ordered bicategories, is extended to general bicategories. It is shown that a cartesian bicategory is a symmetric monoidal bicategory.


Cross Curvature Flow on Locally Homogenous Three-manifolds (I)

Abstract: Chow and Hamilton introduced the cross curvature flow on closed 3-manifolds with negative or positive sectional curvature. In this paper, we study the negative cross curvature flow in the case of locally homogenous metrics on 3-manifolds. In each case, we describe the long time behavior of the solutions of the corresponding ODE system.


Some graph properties determined by edge zeta functions

Abstract: Stark and Terras introduced the edge zeta function of a finite graph in 1996. The edge zeta function is the reciprocal of a polynomial in twice as many variables as edges in the graph and can be computed in polynomial time. We look at graph properties which we can determine using the edge zeta function. In particular, the edge zeta function is enough to deduce the clique number, the number of Hamiltonian cycles, and whether a graph is perfect or chordal. Actually computing these properties takes exponential time. Finally, we present a new example illustrating that the Ihara zeta function cannot necessarily do the same.


Frobenius Objects in Cartesian Bicategories

Abstract: Maps (left adjoint arrows) between Frobenius objects in a cartesian bicategory B are precisely comonoid homomorphisms and, for A Frobenius and any T in B, map(B)(T,A) is a groupoid.


Stochastic bounds for two-layer loss systems

Abstract: This paper studies multiclass loss systems with two layers of servers, where each server at the first layer is dedicated to a certain customer class, while the servers at the second layer can handle all customer classes. The routing of customers follows an overflow scheme, where arriving customers are preferentially directed to the first layer. Stochastic comparison and coupling techniques are developed for studying how the system is affected by packing of customers, altered service rates, and altered server configurations. This analysis leads to easily computable upper and lower bounds for the performance of the system.


Rank-based estimation for all-pass time series models

Abstract: An autoregressive-moving average model in which all roots of the autoregressive polynomial are reciprocals of roots of the moving average polynomial and vice versa is called an all-pass time series model. All-pass models are useful for identifying and modeling noncausal and noninvertible autoregressive-moving average processes. We establish asymptotic normality and consistency for rank-based estimators of all-pass model parameters. The estimators are obtained by minimizing the rank-based residual dispersion function given by Jaeckel [Ann. Math. Statist. 43 (1972) 1449--1458]. These estimators can have the same asymptotic efficiency as maximum likelihood estimators and are robust. The behavior of the estimators for finite samples is studied via simulation and rank estimation is used in the deconvolution of a simulated water gun seismogram.


A Two-Parameter Family of Infinite-Dimensional Diffusions in the Kingman Simplex

Abstract: The aim of the paper is to introduce a two-parameter family of infinite-dimensional diffusion processes X(alpha,theta) related to Pitman's two-parameter Poisson-Dirichlet distributions PD(alpha,theta). The diffusions X(alpha,theta) are obtained in a scaling limit transition from certain finite Markov chains on partitions of natural numbers. The state space of X(alpha,theta) is an infinite-dimensional simplex called the Kingman simplex. In the special case when parameter alpha vanishes, our finite Markov chains are similar to Moran-type model in population genetics, and our diffusion processes reduce to the infinitely-many-neutral-alleles diffusion model studied by Ethier and Kurtz (1981). Our main results extend those of Ethier and Kurtz to the two-parameter case and are as follows: The Poisson-Dirichlet distribution PD(alpha,theta) is a unique stationary distribution for the corresponding process X(alpha,theta); the process is ergodic and reversible; the spectrum of its generator is explicitly described. The general two-parameter case seems to fall outside the setting of models of population genetics, and our approach differs in some aspects from that of Ethier and Kurtz. We also consider the case of degenerate series of parameters alpha and theta and conclude that the diffusions in finite-dimensional simplexes studied by Ethier and Kurtz (1981) arise as a special case of our two-parameter family of diffusions.


The asymptotic geometry of right-angled Artin groups, I

Abstract: We study atomic right-angled Artin groups -- those whose defining graph has no cycles of length less than five, and no separating vertices, separating edges, or separating vertex stars. We show that these groups are not quasi-isometrically rigid, but that an intermediate form of rigidity does hold. We deduce from this that two atomic groups are quasi-isometric iff they are isomorphic.


Magnetic flows on Sol-manifolds: dynamical and symplectic aspects

Abstract: We consider magnetic flows on compact quotients of the 3-dimensional solvable geometry Sol determined by the usual left-invariant metric and the distinguished monopole. We show that these flows have positive Liouville entropy and therefore are never completely integrable. This should be compared with the known fact that the underlying geodesic flow is completely integrable in spite of having positive topological entropy. We also show that for a large class of twisted cotangent bundles of solvable manifolds every compact set is displaceable.


H\"older forms and integrability of invariant distributions

Abstract: We prove an inequality for H\"older continuous differential forms on compact manifolds in which the integral of the form over the boundary of a sufficiently small, smoothly immersed disk is bounded by a certain multiplicative convex combination of the volume of the disk and the area of its boundary. This inequality has natural applications in dynamical systems, where H\"older continuity is ubiquitous. We give two such applications. In the first one, we prove a criterion for the existence of global cross sections to Anosov flows in terms of their expansion-contraction rates. The second application provides an analogous criterion for non-accessibility of partially hyperbolic diffeomorphisms.


On the Hopf-Schur group of a field

Abstract: Let k be any field. We consider the Hopf-Schur group of k, defined as the subgroup of the Brauer group of k consisting of classes that may be represented by homomorphic images of Hopf algebras over k. We show here that twisted group algebras and abelian extensions of k are quotients of cocommutative and commutative Hopf algebras over k, respectively. As a consequence we prove that any tensor product of cyclic algebras over k is a quotient of a Hopf algebra over k, revealing so that the Hopf-Schur group can be much larger than the Schur group of k.


On bilinear biquandles

Abstract: We define a type of biquandle which is a generalization of symplectic quandles. We use the extra structure of these bilinear biquandles to define new knot and link invariants and give some examples.


Tail Asymptotics and Estimation for Elliptical Distributions

Abstract: Let (X,Y) be a bivariate elliptical random vector with associated random radius in the Gumbel max-domain of attraction. In this paper we obtain a second order asymptotic expansion of the joint survival probability P(X > x, Y> y) for x,y large. Further, based on the asymptotic bounds we discuss some aspects of the statistical modelling of joint survival probabilities and the survival conditional excess probability.


Some quasinilpotent generators of the hyperfinite $\mathrm{II}_1$ factor

Abstract: For each sequence $\{c_n\}_n$ in $l_{1}(\N)$ we define an operator $A$ in the hyperfinite $\mathrm{II}_1$-factor $\mathcal{R}$. We prove that these operators are quasinilpotent and they generate the whole hyperfinite $\mathrm{II}_1$-factor. We show that they have non-trivial, closed, invariant subspaces affiliated to the von Neumann algebra and we provide enough evidence to suggest that these operators are interesting for the hyperinvariant subspace problem. We also present some of their properties. In particular, we show that the real and imaginary part of $A$ are equally distributed, and we find a combinatorial formula as well as an analytical way to compute their moments. We present a combinatorial way of computing the moments of $A^{*}A$.


Linear Algebraic Groups without the Normalizer Theorem

Abstract: One can develop the basic structure theory of linear algebraic groups (the root system, Bruhat decomposition, etc.) in a way that bypasses several major steps in the standard development, including the self-normalizing property of Borel subgroups.


Advances in Cardinal Arithmetic

Abstract: If cf(kappa) = kappa, kappa^+< cf(lambda) = \lambda, then there is a stationary subset S of {delta<lambda:cf(delta)=kappa} in I[lambda]. Moreover, we can find <C_delta :delta in S>, C_delta a club of lambda, otp(C_delta)=kappa, guessing clubs and for each alpha<lambda we have: {C_delta \cap alpha: alpha \in nacc(C_delta)} has cardinality <lambda. Also, we prove that e.g. there is a stationary subset of S_{<aleph_1}(lambda) of cardinality cf(S_{<aleph_1}(lambda),subseteq) Then we prove the existence of nice filters when instead being normal filters on omega_1 they are normal filters with larger domains, which can increase during a play. They can help us transfer situation on aleph_1-complete filters to normal ones


The first almost free Whitehead group

Abstract: Assume G.C.H. and kappa is the first uncountable cardinal such that there is a kappa-free abelian group which is not a Whitehead (abelian) group. We prove that kappa is necessarily an inaccessible cardinal


On some problems in general topology

Abstract: We prove that Arhangelskii's problem has a consistent positive answer: if V\models CH, then for some aleph_1-complete aleph_2-c.c. forcing notion P of cardinality aleph_2 we have that P forces ``CH and there is a Lindelof regular topological space of size aleph_2 with clopen basis with every point of pseudo-character aleph_0 (i.e. each singleton is the intersection of countably many open sets)''. Also, we prove the consistency of: CH+ 2^{aleph_1} > \aleph_2 + "there is no space as above with aleph_2 points" (starting with a weakly compact cardinal).


Abelian and non-abelian second cohomologies of quantized enveloping algebras

Abstract: For a class of pointed Hopf algebras including the quantized enveloping algebras, we discuss cleft extensions, cocycle deformations and the second cohomology. We present such a non-standard method of computing the abelian second cohomology that derives information from the non-abelian second cohomology classifying cleft extensions. As a sample computation, a quantum analogue of Whitehead's second lemma for Lie-algebra cohomology is proved.


Density is at most the spread of the square

Abstract: We show the following result: Assume B is an infinite Boolean Algebra and lambda=d(B). Then s(B*B)$, i.e. s(uf(B)xuf(B))>= lambda$ (if lambda limit - obtained)


Rational singularities associated to pairs

Abstract: In this paper we introduce a notion of rational singularities associated to pairs $(X, \ba^t)$ where $X$ is a variety, $\ba$ is an ideal sheaf and $t$ is a nonnegative real number. We prove that most standard results about rational singularities extend to this context. We also show that some results commonly associated with log terminal pairs have analogs in this context, including results related to inversion of adjunction. A positive characteristic analogue of rational singularities of pairs is also defined and explored.


Distance-regular graphs of $q$-Racah type and the $q$-tetrahedron algebra

Abstract: In this paper we discuss a relationship between the following two algebras: (i) the subconstituent algebra $T$ of a distance-regular graph that has $q$-Racah type; (ii) the $q$-tetrahedron algebra $\boxtimes_q$ which is a $q$-deformation of the three-point $sl_2$ loop algebra. Assuming that every irreducible $T$-module is thin, we display an algebra homomorphism from $\boxtimes_q$ into $T$ and show that $T$ is generated by the image together with the center $Z(T)$.


Bi-Legendrian manifolds and paracontact geometry

Abstract: We study the interplays between paracontact geometry and the theory of bi-Legendrian manifolds. We interpret the bi-Legendrian connection of a bi-Legendrian manifold M as the paracontact connection of a canonical paracontact structure induced on M and then we discuss many consequences of this result both for bi-Legendrian and for paracontact manifolds. Finally new classes of examples of paracontact manifolds are presented.


The logarithmic Sobolev inequality along the Ricci flow in dimension 2

Abstract: In this paper we present our results on the logarithmic Sobolev inequality along the Ricci flow in dimension 2.


The logarithmic Sobolev inequality along the Ricci flow: the case $\lambda_0(g_0)=0$

Abstract: We extend our previous results on the logarithmic Sobolev inequality along the Ricci flow in the case $\lambda_0(g_0)>0$ to the case $\lambda_0(g_0)=0$.


The Log Entropy Functional Along the Ricci Flow

Abstract: In this paper we introduce the log entropy functional and establish its monotonicity along the Ricci flow. One consequence of it is the monotonicity of the logarithmic Sobolev constant along the Ricci flow.


Well-posedness and scattering for the KP-II equation in a critical space

Abstract: The Cauchy problem for the Kadomtsev-Petviashvili-II equation (u_t+u_{xxx}+uu_x)_x+u_{yy}=0 is considered. A small data global well-posedness and scattering result in the scale invariant, non-isotropic, homogeneous Sobolev space \dot H^{-1/2,0}(R^2) is derived. Additionally, it is proved that for arbitrarily large initial data the Cauchy problem is locally well-posed in the homogeneous space \dot H^{-1/2,0}(R^2) and in the inhomogeneous space H^{-1/2,0}(R^2), respectively.


p-adic Monodromy of the Universal Deformation of a HW-cyclic Barsotti-Tate Group

Abstract: Let k be an algebraically closed field of characteristic $p>0$, and $G_0$ be a Barsotti-Tate group (or $p$-divisible group) over k. We denote by $S$ the "algebraic" local moduli in characteristic p of $G_0$, by $G$ the universal deformation of $G_0$ over $S$, and by $U\subset S$ the ordinary locus of $G$. The etale part of $G$ over $U$ gives rise to a monodromy representation $\rho$ of the fundamental group of $U$ on the Tate module of $G$. Motivated by a famous theorem of Igusa, we prove in this article that $\rho$ is surjective if $G_0$ is connected and HW-cyclic. This latter condition is equivalent to that Oort's $a$-number of $G_0$ equals 1, and it is satisfied by all connected one-dimensional Barsotti-Tate groups over $k$.


Curvature flows on four manifolds with boundary

Abstract: Given a compact four dimensional smooth Riemannian manifold $(M,g)$ with smooth boundary, we consider the evolution equation by $Q$-curvature in the interior keeping the $T$-curvature and the mean curvature to be zero and the evolution equation by $T$-curvature at the boundary with the condition that the $Q$-curvature and the mean curvature vanish. Using integral method, we prove global existence and convergence for the $Q$-curvature flow (resp $T$-curvature flow) to smooth metric of prescribed $Q$-curvature (resp $T$-curvature) under conformally invariant assumptions.


Topological Andr\'e-Quillen homology for cellular commutative $S$-algebras

Abstract: Topological Andr\'e-Quillen homology for commutative $S$-algebras was introduced by Basterra following work of Kriz, and has been intensively studied by several authors. In this paper we discuss it as a homology theory on CW $S$-algebras and apply it to obtain results on minimal atomic $p$-local $S$-algebras which generalise those of Baker and May for $p$-local spectra and simply connected spaces. We exhibit some new examples of minimal atomic $S$-algebras.


Density-Profile Processes Describing Biological Signaling Networks: Almost Sure Convergence to Deterministic Trajectories

Abstract: We introduce jump processes in R^k, called density-profile process, to model biological signaling networks. They describe the macroscopic evolution of finite-size spin-flip models with k types of spins interacting through a non-reversible Glauber dynamics. We focus on the the k-dimensional empirical-magnetization vector in the thermodynamic limit, and prove that, within arbitrary finite time-intervals, its path converges almost surely to a deterministic trajectory determined by a first-order (non-linear) differential equation. As parameters of the spin-flip dynamics change, the associated dynamical system may go through bifurcations, associated to phase transitions in the statistical mechanical setting. We present a simple example of spin-flip stochastic model leading to a dynamical system with Hopf and pitchfork bifurcations; depending on the parameter values, the magnetization random path can either converge to a unique stable fixed point, converge to one of a pair of stable fixed points, or asymptotically evolve close to a deterministic orbit in R^k.


Quelques courbes de Hecke se plongent dans l'espace de Colmez

Abstract: Let p be a prime, C the p-adic Eigencurve (with tame level 1) and Z the blow-up of the Fredholm hypersurface of the U_p - operator at the special points. We show that for p = 2, 3, 5 and 7, the natural map C -> Z is a rigid-analytic isomorphism.


Lefschetz fibrations, intersection numbers, and representations of the framed braid group

Abstract: We examine the action of the fundamental group $\Gamma$ of a Riemann surface with $m$ punctures on the middle dimensional homology of a regular fiber in a Lefschetz fibration, and describe to what extent this action can be recovered from the intersection numbers of vanishing cycles. Basis changes for the vanishing cycles result in a nonlinear action of the framed braid group $\widetilde{\mathcal B}$ on $m$ strings on a suitable space of $m\times m$ matrices. This action is determined by a family of cohomologous 1-cocycles ${\mathcal S}_c:\widetilde{\mathcal B}\to GL_m({\mathbb{Z}}[\Gamma])$ parametrized by distinguished configurations $c$ of embedded paths from the regular value to the critical values. In the case of the disc, we compare this family of cocycles with the Magnus cocycles given by Fox calculus and consider some abelian reductions giving rise to linear representations of braid groups. We also prove that, still in the case of the disc, the intersection numbers along straight lines, which conjecturally make sense in infinite dimensional situations, carry all the relevant information.


Complex cobordism classes of homogeneous spaces

Abstract: We consider compact homogeneous spaces G/H of positive Euler characteristic endowed with an invariant almost complex structure J and the canonical action \theta of the maximal torus T ^{k} on G/H. We obtain explicit formula for the cobordism class of such manifold through the weights of the action \theta at the identity fixed point eH by an action of the quotient group W_G/W_H of the Weyl groups for G and H. In this way we show that the cobordism class for such manifolds can be computed explicitly without information on their cohomology. We also show that formula for cobordism class provides an explicit way for computing the classical Chern numbers for (G/H, J). As a consequence we obtain that the Chern numbers for (G/H, J) can be computed without information on cohomology for G/H. As an application we provide an explicit formula for cobordism classes and characteristic numbers of the flag manifolds U(n)/T^n, Grassmann manifolds G_{n,k}=U(n)/(U(k)\times U(n-k)) and some particular interesting examples.


On (Enriched) Left Bousfield Localization of Model Categories

Abstract: I verify the existence of left Bousfield localizations and of enriched left Bousfield localizations, and I prove a collection of useful technical results characterizing certain fibrations of (enriched) left Bousfield localizations. I also use such Bousfield localizations to construct a number of new model categories, including models for the homotopy limit of right Quillen presheaves, for Postnikov towers in model categories, and for presheaves valued in a symmetric monoidal model category satisfying a homotopy-coherent descent condition.


Symmetries of quadratic forms classes and of quadratic surds continued fractions. Part II: Classification of the periods' palindromes

Abstract: The continue fractions of quadratic surds are periodic, according to a theorem by Lagrange. Their periods may have differing types of symmetries. This work relates these types of symmetries to the symmetries of the classes of the corresponding indefinite quadratic forms. This allows to classify the periods of quadratic surds and at the same time to find, for an arbitrary indefinite quadratic form, the symmetry type of its class and the number of integer points, for that class, contained in each domain of the Poincare' model of the de Sitter world, introduced in Part I. Moreover, we obtain the same information for every class of forms representing zero, by the finite continue fraction related to a special representative of that class. We will see finally the relation between the reduction procedure for indefinite quadratic forms, defined by the continued fractions, and the classical reduction theory, which acquires a geometrical description by the results of Part I.


A hyperbolic approach to exp_3(S^1)

Abstract: In this paper we investigate a new geometric method of studying exp_k(S^1), the set of all non-empty subsets of the circle of cardinality at most k. By considering the circle as the boundary of the hyperbolic plane we are able to use its group of isometries to determine explicitely the structure of its first few configuration spaces. We then study how these configuration spaces fit together in their union, exp_3(S^1), to reprove an old theorem of Bott as well as to offer a new proof (following that of E. Shchepin) of the fact that the embedding exp_1(S^1) into exp_3(S^1) is the trefoil knot.


A version of the proof for Peres-Schlag's theorem on lacunary sequences

Abstract: We present a proof of a multidimensional version of Peres-Schlag's theorem on Diophantine approximations with lacunary sequences.


Gain of Regularity for the KP-I Equation

Abstract: In this paper we study the smoothness properties of solutions to the KP-I equation. We show that the equation's dispersive nature leads to a gain in regularity for the solution. In particular, if the initial data $\phi$ possesses certain regularity and sufficient decay as $x \to \infty$, then the solution $u(t)$ will be smoother than $\phi$ for $0 < t \leq T$ where $T$ is the existence time of the solution.


Computing arithmetic invariants for hyperbolic reflection groups

Abstract: We describe a collection of computer scripts written in PARI/GP to compute, for reflection groups determined by finite-volume polyhedra in $\mathbb{H}^3$, the commensurability invariants known as the invariant trace field and invariant quaternion algebra. Our scripts also allow one to determine arithmeticity of such groups and the isomorphism class of the invariant quaternion algebra by analyzing its ramification. We present many computed examples of these invariants. This is enough to show that most of the groups that we consider are pairwise incommensurable. For pairs of groups with identical invariants, not all is lost: when both groups are arithmetic, having identical invariants guarantees commensurability. We discover many ``unexpected'' commensurable pairs this way. We also present a non-arithmetic pair with identical invariants for which we cannot determine commensurability.


On the Number of Facets of Three-Dimensional Dirichlet Stereohedra IV: Quarter Cubic Groups

Abstract: In this paper we finish the intensive study of three-dimensional Dirichlet stereohedra started by the second author and D. Bochis, who showed that they cannot have more than 80 facets, except perhaps for crystallographic space groups in the cubic system. Taking advantage of the recent, simpler classification of three-dimensional crystallographic groups by Conway, Delgado-Friedrichs, Huson and Thurston, in a previous paper we proved that Dirichlet stereohedra for any of the 27 "full" cubic groups cannot have more than 25 facets. Here we study the remaining "quarter" cubic groups. With a computer-assisted method, our main result is that Dirichlet stereohedra for the 8 quarter groups, hence for all three-dimensional crystallographic groups, cannot have more than 92 facets.


A posteriori error estimates for finite element approximations of the Cahn-Hilliard equation and the Hele-Shaw flow

Abstract: This paper develops a posteriori error estimates of residual type for conforming and mixed finite element approximations of the fourth order Cahn-Hilliard equation $u_t+\De\bigl(\eps \De u-\eps^{-1} f(u)\bigr)=0$. It is shown that the {\it a posteriori} error bounds depends on $\eps^{-1}$ only in some low polynomial order, instead of exponential order. Using these a posteriori error estimates, we construct an adaptive algorithm for computing the solution of the Cahn-Hilliard equation and its sharp interface limit, the Hele-Shaw flow. Numerical experiments are presented to show the robustness and effectiveness of the new error estimators and the proposed adaptive algorithm.


Automorphisms of a polynomial ring which admit reductions of type I

Abstract: Recently, Shestakov-Umirbaev solved Nagata's conjecture on an automorphism of a polynomial ring. To solve the conjecture, they defined notions called reductions of types I--IV for automorphisms of a polynomial ring. An automorphism admitting a reduction of type I was first found by Shestakov-Umirbaev. Using a computer, van den Essen--Makar-Limanov--Willems gave a family of such automorphisms. In this paper, we present a new construction of such automorphisms using locally nilpotent derivations. As a consequence, we discover that there exists an automorphism admitting a reduction of type I which satisfies some degree condition for each possible value.


On The Solvability of Bilinear Equations in Finite Fields

Abstract: We consider the equation $$ ab + cd = \lambda, \qquad a\in A, b \in B, c\in C, d \in D, $$ over a finite field $F_q$ of $q$ elements, with variables from arbitrary sets $ A, B, C, D \subseteq F_q$. The question of solvability of such and more general equations has recently been considered by D. Hart and A. Iosevich, who, in particular, proved that if $$ #A #B #C #D \gg q^3, $$ then above equation has a solution for any $\lambda \in F_q^*$. Here we show that using bounds of multiplicative character sums allows us to extend the class of sets which satisfy this property.


A Short Study of Alexandroff Spaces

Abstract: In this paper, we discuss the basic properties of Alexandroff spaces. Several examples of Alexandroff spaces are given. We show how to construct new Alexandroff spaces from given ones. Finally, two invariants for compact Alexandroff spaces are defined and calculated for the given examples.


Torus quotients of homogeneous spaces of the general linear group and the standard representation of certain symmetric groups

Abstract: We give a stratification of the GIT quotient of the Grassmannian $G_{2,n}$ modulo the normaliser of a maximal torus of $SL_{n}(k)$ with respect to the ample generator of the Picard group of $G_{2,n}$. We also prove that the flag variety $GL_{n}(k)/B_{n}$ can be obtained as a GIT quotient of $GL_{n+1}(k)/B_{n+1}$ modulo a maximal torus of $SL_{n+1}(k)$ for a suitable choice of an ample line bundle on $GL_{n+1}(k)/B_{n+1}$.


When do stepwise algorithms meet subset selection criteria?

Abstract: Recent results in homotopy and solution paths demonstrate that certain well-designed greedy algorithms, with a range of values of the algorithmic parameter, can provide solution paths to a sequence of convex optimization problems. On the other hand, in regression many existing criteria in subset selection (including $C_p$, AIC, BIC, MDL, RIC, etc.) involve optimizing an objective function that contains a counting measure. The two optimization problems are formulated as (P1) and (P0) in the present paper. The latter is generally combinatoric and has been proven to be NP-hard. We study the conditions under which the two optimization problems have common solutions. Hence, in these situations a stepwise algorithm can be used to solve the seemingly unsolvable problem. Our main result is motivated by recent work in sparse representation, while two others emerge from different angles: a direct analysis of sufficiency and necessity and a condition on the mostly correlated covariates. An extreme example connected with least angle regression is of independent interest.


Local partial likelihood estimation in proportional hazards regression

Abstract: Fan, Gijbels and King [Ann. Statist. 25 (1997) 1661--1690] considered the estimation of the risk function $\psi (x)$ in the proportional hazards model. Their proposed estimator is based on integrating the estimated derivative function obtained through a local version of the partial likelihood. They proved the large sample properties of the derivative function, but the large sample properties of the estimator for the risk function itself were not established. In this paper, we consider direct estimation of the relative risk function $\psi (x_2)-\psi (x_1)$ for any location normalization point $x_1$. The main novelty in our approach is that we select observations in shrinking neighborhoods of both $x_1$ and $x_2$ when constructing a local version of the partial likelihood, whereas Fan, Gijbels and King [Ann. Statist. 25 (1997) 1661--1690] only concentrated on a single neighborhood, resulting in the cancellation of the risk function in the local likelihood function. The asymptotic properties of our estimator are rigorously established and the variance of the estimator is easily estimated. The idea behind our approach is extended to estimate the differences between groups. A simulation study is carried out.


Estimating the number of classes

Abstract: Estimating the unknown number of classes in a population has numerous important applications. In a Poisson mixture model, the problem is reduced to estimating the odds that a class is undetected in a sample. The discontinuity of the odds prevents the existence of locally unbiased and informative estimators and restricts confidence intervals to be one-sided. Confidence intervals for the number of classes are also necessarily one-sided. A sequence of lower bounds to the odds is developed and used to define pseudo maximum likelihood estimators for the number of classes.


Gain of analyticity for semilinear Schroedinger equations

Abstract: We discuss gain of analyticity phenomenon of solutions to the initial value problem for semilinear Schroedinger equations with gauge invariant nonlinearity. We prove that if the initial data decays exponentially, then the solution becomes real-analytic in the space variable and a Gevrey function of order 2 in the time variable except in the initial plane. Our proof is based on the energy estimates developed in our previous work and on fine summation formulae concerned with a matrix norm.


Strongly pseudoconvex domains as subvarieties of complex manifolds

Abstract: In this paper (a sequel to B. Drinovec Drnovsek and F. Forstneric, Holomorphic curves in complex spaces, Duke Math. J. 139 (2007), 203-253) we obtain existence and approximation results for closed complex subvarieties that are normalized by strongly pseudoconvex Stein domains. Our sufficient condition for the existence of such subvarieties in a complex manifold is expressed in terms of the Morse indices and the number of positive Levi eigenvalues of an exhaustion function on the manifold. Examples show that our condition cannot be weakened in general. Optimal results are obtained for subvarieties of this type in complements of compact complex submanifolds with Griffiths positive normal bundle; in the projective case these results generalize classical theorems of Remmert, Bishop and Narasimhan concerning proper holomorphic maps and embeddings to complex Euclidean spaces.


Rational algebraic K-theory of topological K-theory

Abstract: We show that after rationalization there is a homotopy fiber sequence BBU -> K(ku) -> K(Z). We interpret this as a correspondence between the virtual 2-vector bundles over a space X and their associated anomaly bundles over the free loop space LX. We also rationally compute K(KU) by using the localization sequence, and K(MU) by a method that applies to all connective S-algebras.


Normal Surface Theory in Link Diagrams

Abstract: This paper has been withdrawn by the author, due to a significant error in section 4.3.1.


Likelihood based inference for monotone response models

Abstract: The behavior of maximum likelihood estimates (MLEs) and the likelihood ratio statistic in a family of problems involving pointwise nonparametric estimation of a monotone function is studied. This class of problems differs radically from the usual parametric or semiparametric situations in that the MLE of the monotone function at a point converges to the truth at rate $n^{1/3}$ (slower than the usual $\sqrt{n}$ rate) with a non-Gaussian limit distribution. A framework for likelihood based estimation of monotone functions is developed and limit theorems describing the behavior of the MLEs and the likelihood ratio statistic are established. In particular, the likelihood ratio statistic is found to be asymptotically pivotal with a limit distribution that is no longer $\chi^2$ but can be explicitly characterized in terms of a functional of Brownian motion. Applications of the main results are presented and potential extensions discussed.


A simple proof of the matrix-valued Fej\'er-Riesz theorem

Abstract: A very short proof of the Fej\'er-Riesz lemma is presented in the matrix case


A nonparametric approach to the estimation of lengths and surface areas

Abstract: The Minkowski content $L_0(G)$ of a body $G\subset{\mathbb{R}}^d$ represents the boundary length (for $d=2$) or the surface area (for $d=3$) of $G$. A method for estimating $L_0(G)$ is proposed. It relies on a nonparametric estimator based on the information provided by a random sample (taken on a rectangle containing $G$) in which we are able to identify whether every point is inside or outside $G$. Some theoretical properties concerning strong consistency, $L_1$-error and convergence rates are obtained. A practical application to a problem of image analysis in cardiology is discussed in some detail. A brief simulation study is provided.


Local rigidity in quaternionic hyperbolic space

Abstract: In this note, we study deformations of quaternionic hyperbolic lattices in larger quaternionic hyperbolic spaces and prove local rigidity results. On the other hand, surface groups are shown to be more flexible in quaternionic hyperbolic plane than in complex hyperbolic plane.


Monte Carlo likelihood inference for missing data models

Abstract: We describe a Monte Carlo method to approximate the maximum likelihood estimate (MLE), when there are missing data and the observed data likelihood is not available in closed form. This method uses simulated missing data that are independent and identically distributed and independent of the observed data. Our Monte Carlo approximation to the MLE is a consistent and asymptotically normal estimate of the minimizer $\theta^*$ of the Kullback--Leibler information, as both Monte Carlo and observed data sample sizes go to infinity simultaneously. Plug-in estimates of the asymptotic variance are provided for constructing confidence regions for $\theta^*$. We give Logit--Normal generalized linear mixed model examples, calculated using an R package.


On combinatorial model categories

Abstract: Combinatorial model categories were introduced by J. H. Smith as model categories which are locally presentable and cofibrantly generated. He has not published his results yet but proofs of some of them were presented by T. Beke or D. Dugger. We are contributing to this endeavour by proving that weak equivalences in a combinatorial model category form an accessible category. We also present some new results about weak equivalences and cofibrations in combinatorial model categories.


Stochastic Variational Integrators

Abstract: This paper presents a continuous and discrete Lagrangian theory for stochastic Hamiltonian systems on manifolds. The main result is to derive stochastic governing equations for such systems from a critical point of a stochastic action. Using this result the paper derives Langevin-type equations for constrained mechanical systems and implements a stochastic analog of Lagrangian reduction. These are easy consequences of the fact that the stochastic action is intrinsically defined. Stochastic variational integrators (SVIs) are developed using a discretized stochastic variational principle. The paper shows that the discrete flow of an SVI is a.s. symplectic and in the presence of symmetry a.s. momentum-map preserving. A first-order mean-square convergent SVI for mechanical systems on Lie groups is introduced. As an application of the theory, SVIs are exhibited for multiple, randomly forced and torqued rigid-bodies interacting via a potential.


Comparison between Second Variation of Area and Second Variation of Energy of a Minimal Surface

Abstract: The conformal parameterisation of a minimal surface is harmonic. Therefore, a minimal surface is a critical point of both the energy functional and the area functional. In this paper, we compare the Morse index of a minimal surface as a critical point of the area functional with its Morse index as a critical point of the energy functional. The difference between these indices is at most the real dimension of Teichmuller space. This comparison allows us to obtain surprisingly good upper bounds on the index of minimal surfaces of finite total curvature in Euclidean space of any dimension. We also bound the index of a minimal surface in an arbitrary Riemannian manifold by the area and genus of the surface, and the dimension and geometry of the ambient manifold.


Primitive Divisors of some Lehmer-Pierce Sequences

Abstract: We study the primitive divisors of the terms of $(\Delta_n)_{n \geq 1}$, where $\Delta_n=N_{K/ \mathbb{Q}}(u^n-1)$ for $K$ a real quadratic field, and $u>1$ a unit element of its ring of integers. The methods used allow us to find the terms of the sequence that do not have a primitive prime divisor.


The global isoperimetric methodology applied to Kneser's Theorem

Abstract: We give in the present work a new methodology that allows to give isoperimetric proofs, for Kneser's Theorem and Kemperman's structure Theory and most sophisticated results of this type. As an illustration we present a new proof of Kneser's Theorem.


Focusing waves in unknown media by modified time reversal iteration

Abstract: We study the wave equation in a bounded domain or on a compact Riemannian manifold with boundary. Assume that we are given the hyperbolic Neumann-to-Dirichlet map on the boundary corresponding to physical boundary measurements. We consider how to focus waves, that is, how to find Neumann boundary values so that at a given time the corresponding wave converges to a delta distribution $\delta_y$ while the time derivative of the wave converges to zero. Such boundary value are generated by an iterative sequence of measurements. In each iteration step we apply time reversal and other simple operators to measured data and compute boundary values for the next iteration step. The key feature of the algorithm is that it does not require knowledge of the coefficients in the wave equation, that is, the material parameters inside the media. However, we assume that the point $y$ where the wave focuses is known in travel time coordinates.


Connection between ordinary multinomials, generalized Fibonacci numbers, partial Bell partition polynomials and convolution powers of discrete uniform distribution

Abstract: Using an explicit computable expression of ordinary multinomials, we establish three remarkable connections, with the q-generalized Fibonacci sequence, the exponential partial Bell partition polynomials and the density of convolution powers of the discrete uniform distribution. Identities and various combinatorial relations are derived.


Piecewise linear regularized solution paths

Abstract: We consider the generic regularized optimization problem $\hat{\mathsf{\beta}}(\lambda)=\arg \min_{\beta}L({\sf{y}},X{\sf{\beta}})+\lambda J({\sf{\beta}})$. Efron, Hastie, Johnstone and Tibshirani [Ann. Statist. 32 (2004) 407--499] have shown that for the LASSO--that is, if $L$ is squared error loss and $J(\beta)=\|\beta\|_1$ is the $\ell_1$ norm of $\beta$--the optimal coefficient path is piecewise linear, that is, $\partial \hat{\beta}(\lambda)/\partial \lambda$ is piecewise constant. We derive a general characterization of the properties of (loss $L$, penalty $J$) pairs which give piecewise linear coefficient paths. Such pairs allow for efficient generation of the full regularized coefficient paths. We investigate the nature of efficient path following algorithms which arise. We use our results to suggest robust versions of the LASSO for regression and classification, and to develop new, efficient algorithms for existing problems in the literature, including Mammen and van de Geer's locally adaptive regression splines.


$B_2$-crystals: axioms, structure, models

Abstract: We present a list of ``local'' axioms and an explicit combinatorial construction for the regular $B_2$-crystals (crystal graphs of highest weight integrable modules over $U_q(sp_4)$). Also a new combinatorial model for these crystals is developed.


Curves of given $p$-rank with trivial automorphism group

Abstract: Let $k$ be an algebraically closed field of characteristic $p >0$. Suppose $g \geq 3$ and $0 \leq f \leq g$. We prove there is a smooth projective $k$-curve of genus $g$ and $p$-rank $f$ with no non-trivial automorphisms. In addition, we prove there is a smooth projective hyperelliptic $k$-curve of genus $g$ and $p$-rank $f$ whose only non-trivial automorphism is the hyperelliptic involution. The proof involves computations about the dimension of the moduli space of (hyperelliptic) $k$-curves of genus $g$ and $p$-rank $f$ with extra automorphisms.


Locally compact quantum groups. Radford's $S^4$ formula

Abstract: Let $A$ be a finite-dimensional Hopf algebra. The left and the right integrals on $A$ are related by means of a distinguished group-like element $\delta$ of $A$. Similarly, there is this element $\hat\delta$ in the dual Hopf algebra $\hat A$. Radford showed that $$S^4(a)=\delta^{-1}(\hat\delta\triangleright a \triangleleft \hat\delta^{-1})\delta$$ for all $a$ in $A$ where $S$ is the antipode of $A$ and where $\triangleright$ and $\triangleleft$ are used to denote the standard left and right actions of $\hat A$ on $A$. The formula still holds for multiplier Hopf algebras with integrals (algebraic quantum groups). In the theory of locally compact quantum groups, an analytical form of Radford's formula can be proven (in terms of bounded operators on a Hilbert space). In this talk, we do not have the intention to discuss Radford's formula as such, but rather to use it, together with related formulas, for illustrating various aspects of the road that takes us from the theory of Hopf algebras (including compact quantum groups) to multiplier Hopf algebras (including discrete quantum groups) and further to the more general theory of locally compact quantum groups.


Statistical inferences for functional data

Abstract: With modern technology development, functional data are being observed frequently in many scientific fields. A popular method for analyzing such functional data is ``smoothing first, then estimation.'' That is, statistical inference such as estimation and hypothesis testing about functional data is conducted based on the substitution of the underlying individual functions by their reconstructions obtained by one smoothing technique or another. However, little is known about this substitution effect on functional data analysis. In this paper this problem is investigated when the local polynomial kernel (LPK) smoothing technique is used for individual function reconstructions. We find that under some mild conditions, the substitution effect can be ignored asymptotically. Based on this, we construct LPK reconstruction-based estimators for the mean, covariance and noise variance functions of a functional data set and derive their asymptotics. We also propose a GCV rule for selecting good bandwidths for the LPK reconstructions. When the mean function also depends on some time-independent covariates, we consider a functional linear model where the mean function is linearly related to the covariates but the covariate effects are functions of time. The LPK reconstruction-based estimators for the covariate effects and the covariance function are also constructed and their asymptotics are derived. Moreover, we propose a $L^2$-norm-based global test statistic for a general hypothesis testing problem about the covariate effects and derive its asymptotic random expression. The effect of the bandwidths selected by the proposed GCV rule on the accuracy of the LPK reconstructions and the mean function estimator is investigated via a simulation study. The proposed methodologies are illustrated via an application to a real functional data set collected in climatology.


Enumerative Properties of NC^B(p,q)

Abstract: We determine the rank generating function, the zeta polynomial and the Moebius function for the poset NC^B(p,q) of annular non-crossing partitions of type B, where p and q are two positive integers. We give an alternative treatment of some of these results in the case q=1, for which this poset is a lattice. We also consider the general case of multiannular non-crossing partitions of type B, and prove that this reduces to the cases of non-crossing partitions of type B in the annulus and in the disc.


On the p-th root of a p-adic number

Abstract: We give a sufficient and necessary condition for a p-adic integer to have p-th root in the ring of p-adic integers. The same condition holds clearly for residues modulo p^k. We give a proof that Fermat's last theorem is false for p-adic integers and for residues mod p^k.


Tensoring with infinite-dimensional modules in $\scr O_0$

Abstract: We show that the principal block $\scr O_0$ of the BGG category $\scr O$ for a semisimple Lie algebra $\germ g$ acts faithfully on itself via exact endofunctors which preserve tilting modules, via right exact endofunctors which preserve projective modules and via left exact endofunctors which preserve injective modules. The origin of all these functors is tensoring with arbitrary (not necessarily finite-dimensional) modules in the category $\scr O$. We study such functors, describe their adjoints and show that they give rise to a natural (co)monad structure on $\scr O_0$. Furthermore, all this generalises to parabolic subcategories of $\scr O_0$. As an example, we present some explicit computations for the algebra $\germ{sl}_3$.


On the $\mathbb{L}_p$-error of monotonicity constrained estimators

Abstract: We aim at estimating a function $\lambda:[0,1]\to \mathbb {R}$, subject to the constraint that it is decreasing (or increasing). We provide a unified approach for studying the $\mathbb {L}_p$-loss of an estimator defined as the slope of a concave (or convex) approximation of an estimator of a primitive of $\lambda$, based on $n$ observations. Our main task is to prove that the $\mathbb {L}_p$-loss is asymptotically Gaussian with explicit (though unknown) asymptotic mean and variance. We also prove that the local $\mathbb {L}_p$-risk at a fixed point and the global $\mathbb {L}_p$-risk are of order $n^{-p/3}$. Applying the results to the density and regression models, we recover and generalize known results about Grenander and Brunk estimators. Also, we obtain new results for the Huang--Wellner estimator of a monotone failure rate in the random censorship model, and for an estimator of the monotone intensity function of an inhomogeneous Poisson process.


On equimultiple modules

Abstract: We study the class of equimultiple modules. In particular, we prove several criteria for an equimultiple module to be a complete intersection and prove the openness of the equimultiple locus of an ideal module.


On local $U$-statistic processes and the estimation of densities of functions of several sample variables

Abstract: A notion of local $U$-statistic process is introduced and central limit theorems in various norms are obtained for it. This involves the development of several inequalities for $U$-processes that may be useful in other contexts. This local $U$-statistic process is based on an estimator of the density of a function of several sample variables proposed by Frees [J. Amer. Statist. Assoc. 89 (1994) 517--525] and, as a consequence, uniform in bandwidth central limit theorems in the sup and in the $L_p$ norms are obtained for these estimators.


Sl(N) link homology using foams and the Kapustin-Li formula

Abstract: We use foams to give a topological construction of a rational link homology categorifying the slN link invariant, for N>3. To evaluate closed foams we use the Kapustin-Li formula adapted to foams by Khovanov and Rozansky. We show that for any link our homology is isomorphic to Khovanov and Rozansky's.


A complement to Le Cam's theorem

Abstract: This paper examines asymptotic equivalence in the sense of Le Cam between density estimation experiments and the accompanying Poisson experiments. The significance of asymptotic equivalence is that all asymptotically optimal statistical procedures can be carried over from one experiment to the other. The equivalence given here is established under a weak assumption on the parameter space $\mathcal{F}$. In particular, a sharp Besov smoothness condition is given on $\mathcal{F}$ which is sufficient for Poissonization, namely, if $\mathcal{F}$ is in a Besov ball $B_{p,q}^{\alpha}(M)$ with $\alpha p>1/2$. Examples show Poissonization is not possible whenever $\alpha p<1/2$. In addition, asymptotic equivalence of the density estimation model and the accompanying Poisson experiment is established for all compact subsets of $C([0,1]^m)$, a condition which includes all H\"{o}lder balls with smoothness $\alpha>0$.


Realizing modules over the homology of a DGA

Abstract: Let A be a DGA over a field and X a module over H_*(A). Fix an $A_\infty$-structure on H_*(A) making it quasi-isomorphic to A. We construct an equivalence of categories between A_{n+1}-module structures on X and length n Postnikov systems in the derived category of A-modules based on the bar resolution of X. This implies that quasi-isomorphism classes of A_n-structures on X are in bijective correspondence with weak equivalence classes of rigidifications of the first n terms of the bar resolution of X to a complex of A-modules. The above equivalences of categories are compatible for different values of n. This implies that two obstruction theories for realizing X as the homology of an A-module coincide.


Embedding group algebras into finite von Neumann regular rings

Abstract: Let G be a group and let K be a field of characteristic zero. We shall prove that KG can be embedded into a von Neumann unit-regular ring. In the course of the proof, we shall obtain a result relevant to the Atiyah conjecture.


Bridgeland-Stable Moduli Spaces for K-Trivial Surfaces

Abstract: We give a natural family of Bridgeland stability conditions on the derived category of a smooth projective complex surface S and describe ``wall-crossing behavior'' for objects with the same invariants as $\cO_C(H)$ when H generates Pic(S) and $C \in |H|$. If, in addition, S is a K3 or Abelian surface, we use this description to construct a sequence of fine moduli spaces of Bridgeland-stable objects via Mukai flops and generalized elementary modifications of the universal coherent sheaf. We also discover a natural generalization of Thaddeus' stable pairs for curves embedded in the moduli spaces.


Automorphisms and isomorphisms of Chevalley groups and algebras

Abstract: An adjoint Chevalley group of rank at least 2 over a rational algebra (or a similar ring), its elementary subgroup, and the corresponding Lie ring have the same automorphism group. These automorphisms are explicitly described.


Tropical fans and the moduli spaces of tropical curves

Abstract: We give a rigorous definition of tropical fans (the "local building blocks for tropical varieties") and their morphisms. For such a morphism of tropical fans of the same dimension we show that the number of inverse images (counted with suitable tropical multiplicities) of a point in the target does not depend on the chosen point - a statement that can be viewed as the beginning of a tropical intersection theory. As an application we consider the moduli spaces of rational tropical curves (both abstract and in some R^r) together with the evaluation and forgetful morphisms. Using our results this gives new, easy, and unified proofs of various tropical independence statements, e.g. of the fact that the numbers of rational tropical curves (in any R^r) through given points are independent of the points.


Quasi-periodic stability of normally resonant tori

Abstract: We study quasi-periodic tori under a normal-internal resonance, possibly with multiple eigenvalues. Two non-degeneracy conditions play a role. The first of these generalizes invertibility of the Floquet matrix and prevents drift of the lower dimensional torus. The second condition involves a Kolmogorov-like variation of the internal frequencies and simultaneously versality of the Floquet matrix unfolding. We focus on the reversible setting, but our results carry over to the Hamiltonian and dissipative contexts.


Weighted hyperprojective spaces and homotopy invariance in orbifold cohomology

Abstract: We show that Chen-Ruan cohomology is a homotopy invariant in certain cases. We introduce the notion of a T-representation homotopy, which is a stringent form of homotopy under which Chen-Ruan cohomology is invariant. We show that while hyperkahler quotients of the cotangent bundle to a complex vector space by a circle S^1 (here termed weighted hyperprojective spaces) are homotopy equivalent to weighted projective spaces, they are not S^1-representation homotopic. Indeed, we show that their Chen-Ruan cohomology rings (over the rationals) are distinct.


Minimal Number of Generators and Minimum Order of a Non-Abelian Group whose Elements Commute with Their Endomorphic Images

Abstract: A group in which every element commutes with its endomorphic images is called an $E$-group. If $p$ is a prime number, a $p$-group $G$ which is an $E$-group is called a $pE$-group. Every abelian group is obviously an $E$-group. We prove that every 2-generator $E$-group is abelian and that all 3-generator $E$-groups are nilpotent of class at most 2. It is also proved that every infinite 3-generator $E$-group is abelian. We conjecture that every finite 3-generator $E$-group should be abelian. Moreover we show that the minimum order of a non-abelian $pE$-group is $p^8$ for any odd prime number $p$ and this order is $2^7$ for $p=2$. Some of these results are proved for a class wider than the class of $E$-groups.


A lower bound for the number of conjugacy classes of finite groups

Abstract: In 2000, L. H\'{e}thelyi and B. K\"{u}lshammer proved that if $p$ is a prime number dividing the order of a finite solvable group $G$, then $G$ has at least $2\sqrt{p-1}$ conjugacy classes. In this paper we show that if $p$ is large, the result remains true for arbitrary finite groups.