Orbit decidability and the conjugacy problem for some extensions of groups

Abstract: Given a short exact sequence of groups with certain conditions, $1\to F\to G\to H\to 1$, we prove that $G$ has solvable conjugacy problem if and only if the corresponding action subgroup $A\leqslant Aut(F)$ is orbit decidable. From this, we deduce that the conjugacy problem is solvable, among others, for all groups of the form $\mathbb{Z}^2\rtimes F_m$, $F_2\rtimes F_m$, $F_n \rtimes \mathbb{Z}$, and $\mathbb{Z}^n \rtimes_A F_m$ with virtually solvable action group $A\leqslant GL_n(\mathbb{Z})$. Also, we give an easy way of constructing groups of the form $\mathbb{Z}^4\rtimes F_n$ and $F_3\rtimes F_n$ with unsolvable conjugacy problem. On the way, we solve the twisted conjugacy problem for virtually surface and virtually polycyclic groups, and give an example of a group with solvable conjugacy problem but unsolvable twisted conjugacy problem. As an application, an alternative solution to the conjugacy problem in $Aut(F_2)$ is given.


Generalized Hasimoto Transform of One-Dimensional Dispersive Flows into Compact Riemann Surfaces

Abstract: We study the structure of differential equations of one-dimensional dispersive flows into compact Riemann surfaces. These equations geometrically generalize two-sphere valued systems modeling the motion of vortex filament. We define a generalized Hasimoto transform by constructing a good moving frame, and reduce the equation with values in the induced bundle to a complex valued equation which is easy to handle. We also discuss the relationship between our reduction and the theory of linear dispersive partial differential equations.


Universal lifts of chain complexes over non-commutative parameter algebras

Abstract: We define the notion of universal lift of a projective complex based on non-commutative parameter algebras, and prove its existence and uniqueness. We investigate the properties of parameter algebras for universal lifts.


A most general edge elimination graph polynomial

Abstract: We look for graph polynomials which satisfy recurrence relations on three kinds of edge elimination: edge deletion, edge contraction and deletion of edges together with their end points. Like in the case of deletion and contraction only (W. Tutte, 1954), it turns out that there is a most general polynomial satisfying such recurrence relations, which we call $\xi(G,x,y,z)$. We show that the new polynomial simultaneously generalizes the Tutte polynomial, the matching polynomial, and the recent generalization of the chromatic polynomial proposed by K.Dohmen, A.P\"{o}nitz and P.Tittman (2003), including also the independent set polynomial of I. Gutman and F. Harary, (1983) and the vertex-cover polynomial of F,M. Dong, M.D. Hendy, K.T. Teo and C.H.C. Little (2002). We establish two definitions of the new polynomial: first, the most general confluent recursive definition, and then an explicit one, using a set expansion formula, and prove their identity. We further expand this result to edge-labeled graphs as was done for the Tutte polynomial by T. Zaslavsky (1992) and B. Bollob\'as and O. Riordan (1999). The edge labeled polynomial $\xi_{lab}(G,x,y,z, \bar{t})$ also generalizes the chain polynomial of R.C. Read and E.G. Whitehead Jr. (1999). Finally, we discuss the complexity of computing $\xi(G,x,y,z)$.


New Abstract Hardy Spaces

Abstract: The aim of this paper is to propose an abstract construction of spaces which keep the main properties of the (already known) Hardy spaces H^1. We construct spaces through an atomic (or molecular) decomposition. We prove some results about continuity from these spaces into L^1 and some results about interpolation between these spaces and the Lebesgue spaces. We also obtain some results on weighted norm inequalities. Then we apply this abstract theory to the L^p maximal regularity. Finally we present partial results in order to understand a characterization of the duals of Hardy spaces.


A new approach to Kostant's problem

Abstract: For every involution $\mathbf{w}$ of the symmetric group $S_n$ we establish, in terms ofa special canonical quotient of the dominant Verma module associated with $\mathbf{w}$, an effective criterion, which allows us to verify whether the universal enveloping algebra $U(\mathfrak{sl}_n)$ surjects onto the space of all ad-finite linear transformations of the simple highest weight module $L(\mathbf{w})$. An easy sufficient condition derived from this criterion admits a straightforward computational check for example using a computer. All this is applied to get some old and many new results, which answer the classical question of Kostant in special cases, in particular we give a complete answer for simple highest weight modules in the regular block of $\mathfrak{sl}_n$, $n\leq 5$.


Equivariant stable stems for prime order groups

Abstract: For groups of prime order, equivariant stable maps between equivariant representation spheres are investigated using the Borel cohomology Adams spectral sequence. Features of the equivariant stable homotopy category, such as stability and duality, are shown to lift to the category of modules over the associated Steenrod algebra. The dependence on the dimension functions of the representations is clarified.


Optimal eigenvalue estimate for the Dirac-Witten operator on bounded domains with smooth boundary

Abstract: Eigenvalue estimate for the Dirac-Witten operator is given on bounded domains (with smooth boundary) of spacelike hypersurfaces satisfying the dominant energy condition, under four natural boundary conditions (MIT, APS, modified APS, and chiral conditions). This result is a generalisation of Friedrich's inequality for the usual Dirac operator. The limiting cases are also investigated.


Notes on Formal Deformations of Hom-associative and Hom-Lie Algebras

Abstract: The aim of this paper is to extend to Hom-algebra structures the theory of formal deformations of algebras which was introduced by Gerstenhaber for associative algebras and extended to Lie algebras by Nijenhuis-Richardson. We deal with Hom-associative and Hom-Lie algebras. We construct the first groups of a deformation cohomology and give several examples of deformations. We provide families of Hom-Lie algebras deforming Lie algebra $sl_2$ and describe as formal deformations the q-deformed Witt algebra and Jackson $sl_2$.


Affine symmetries of the equivariant quantum cohomology ring of rational homogeneous spaces

Abstract: Let $X$ be a rational homogeneous space and let $QH^*(X)_{loc}^\times$ be the group of invertible elements in the small quantum cohomology ring of $X$ localised in the quantum parameters. We generalise results of arXiv:math/0609796 and realise explicitly the map $\pi_1({\rm Aut}(X))\to QH^*(X)_{loc}^\times$ described in arXiv:dg-ga/9511011. We even prove that this map is an embedding and realise it in the equivariant quantum cohomology ring $QH^*_T(X)_{loc}^\times$. We give explicit formulas for the product by these elements. The proof relies on a generalisation, to a quotient of the equivariant homology ring of the affine Grassmannian, of a formula proved by Peter Magyar arXiv:0705.3826. It also uses Peterson's unpublished result -- recently proved by Lam and Shimozono in arXiv:0705.1386 -- on the comparison between the equivariant homology ring of the affine Grassmannian and the equivariant quantum cohomology ring.


On the spectrum of lamplighter groups and percolation clusters

Abstract: Let $G$ be a finitely generated group and $X$ its Cayley graph with respect to a finite, symmetric generating set $S$. Furthermore, let $H$ be a finite group and $H \wr G$ the lamplighter group (wreath product) over $G$ with group of "lamps" $H$. We show that the spectral measure (Plancherel measure) of any symmetric "switch--walk--switch" random walk on $H \wr G$ coincides with the expected spectral measure (integrated density of states) of the random walk with absorbing boundary on the cluster of the group identity for Bernoulli site percolation on $X$ with parameter $p = 1/|H|$. The return probabilities of the lamplighter random walk coincide with the expected (annealed) return probabilites on the percolation cluster. In particular, if the clusters of percolation with parameter $p$ are almost surely finite then the spectrum of the lamplighter group is pure point. This generalizes results of Grigorchuk and Zuk, resp. Dicks and Schick regarding the case when $G$ is infinite cyclic. Analogous results relate bond percolation with another lamplighter random walk. In general, the integrated density of states of site (or bond) percolation with arbitrary parameter $p$ is always related with the Plancherel measure of a convolution operator by a signed measure on $H \wr G$, where $H = Z$ or another suitable group.


Harnack Inequality and Strong Feller Property for Stochastic Fast-Diffusion Equations

Abstract: This paper presents analogous results for stochastic fast-diffusion equations. Since the fast-diffusion equation possesses weaker dissipativity than the porous medium one does, some technical difficulties appear in the study. As a compensation to the weaker dissipativity condition, a Sobolev-Nash inequality is assumed for the underlying self-adjoint operator in applications. Some concrete examples are constructed to illustrate the main results.


Transportation Cost Inequality on Path Spaces with Uniform Distance

Abstract: Starting from a sequence of independent Wright-Fisher diffusion processes on $[0,1]$, we construct a class of reversible infinite dimensional diffusion processes on $\DD_\infty:= \{{\bf x}\in Let $M$ be a complete Riemnnian manifold and $\mu$ the distribution of the diffusion process generated by $\ff 1 2\DD+Z$ where $Z$ is a $C^1$-vector field. When $\Ric-\nn Z$ is bounded below and $Z$ has, for instance, linear growth, the transportation-cost inequality with respect to the uniform distance is established for $\mu$ on the path space over $M$. A simple example is given to show the optimality of the condition.


From Super Poincar\'e to Weighted Log-Sobolev and Entropy-Cost Inequalities

Abstract: We derive weighted log-Sobolev inequalities from a class of super Poincar\'e inequalities. As an application, the Talagrand inequality with larger distances are obtained. In particular, on a complete connected Riemannian manifold, we prove that the $\log^\dd$-Sobolev inequality with $\dd\in (1,2)$ implies the $L^{2/(2-\dd)}$-transportation cost inequality $$W^\rr_{2/(2-\dd)}(f\mu,\mu)^{2/(2-\dd)}\le C\mu(f\log f), \mu(f)=1, f\ge 0$$ for some constant $C>0$, and they are equivalent if the curvature of the corresponding generator is bounded below. Weighted log-Sobolev and entropy-cost inequalities are also derived for a large class of probability measures on $\R^d$.


Log-Sobolev inequalities: Different roles of Ric and Hess

Abstract: Let $P_t$ be the diffusion semigroup generated by $L:=\Delta +\nabla V$ on a complete connected Riemannian manifold with $\operatorname {Ric}\ge-(\sigma ^2\rho_o^2+c)$ for some constants $\sigma, c>0$ and $\rho_o$ the Riemannian distance to a fixed point. It is shown that $P_t$ is hypercontractive, or the log-Sobolev inequality holds for the associated Dirichlet form, provided $-\operatorname {Hess}_V\ge\delta$ holds outside of a compact set for some constant $\delta >(1+\sqrt{2})\sigma \sqrt{d-1}.$ This indicates, at least in finite dimensions, that $\operatorname {Ric}$ and $-\operatorname {Hess}_V$ play quite different roles for the log-Sobolev inequality to hold. The supercontractivity and the ultracontractivity are also studied.


Intrinsic Ultracontractivity on Riemannian Manifolds with Infinite Volume Measures

Abstract: By establishing the intrinsic super-Poincar\'e inequality, some explicit conditions are presented for diffusion semigroups on a non-compact complete Riemannian manifold to be intrinsically ultracontractive. These conditions, as well as the resulting uniform upper bounds on the intrinsic heat kernels, are sharp for some concrete examples.


Metrics of constant curvature on a Riemann surface with two corners on the boundary

Abstract: We use PDE methods as developed for the Liouville equation to study the existence of conformal metrics with prescribed singularities on surfaces with boundary, the boundary condition being constant geodesic curvature. Our first result shows that a disk with two corners admits a conformal metric with constant Gauss curvature and constant geodesic curvature on its boundary if and only if the two corners have the same angle. In fact, we can classify all the solutions in a more general situation, that of the 2-sphere cut by two planes.


The parabolic-parabolic Keller-Segel model in $\mathbb{R}^2$

Abstract: This paper is devoted mainly to the global existence problem for the two-dimensional parabolic-parabolic Keller-Segel in the full space. We derive a critical mass threshold below which global existence is ensured. Using carefully energy methods and ad hoc functional inequalities we improve and extend previous results in this direction. The given threshold is supposed to be the optimal criterion, but this question is still open. This global existence result is accompanied by a detailed discussion on the duality between the Onofri and the logarithmic Hardy-Littlewood-Sobolev inequalities that underlie the following approach.


General Dirichlet series, arithmetic convolution equations and Laplace transforms

Abstract: In an earlier paper, we studied solutions g to convolution equations of the form a_d*g^{*d}+a_{d-1}*g^{*(d-1)}+...+a_1*g+a_0=0, where a_0, ..., a_d are given arithmetic functions associated with Dirichlet series which converge on some right half plane, and also g is required to be such a function. In this article, we extend our previous results to multidimensional general Dirichlet series of the form \sum_{x\in X} f(x) e^{-sx} (s in C^k), where X is an additive subsemigroup of [0,\infty)^k. If X is discrete and a certain solvability criterion is satisfied, we determine solutions by an elementary recursive approach, adapting an idea of Feckan. The solution of the general case leads us to a more comprehensive question: Let X be an additive subsemigroup of a pointed, closed convex cone C in R^k. Can we find a complex Radon measure on X whose Laplace transform satisfies a given polynomial equation whose coefficients are Laplace transforms of such measures?


Symmetric units in integral group rings

Abstract: In this paper, we study the question of when the symmetric units in an integral group ring ZG form a multiplicative group. When G is periodic, necessary and sufficient conditions are given for this to occur.


An open string analogue of Viterbo functoriality

Abstract: Liouville domains are a special type of symplectic manifolds with boundary (they have an everywhere defined Liouville flow, pointing outwards along the boundary). Symplectic cohomology for Liouville domains was introduced by Cieliebak-Floer-Hofer-Wysocki and Vitero. The latter constructed a restriction (or transfer) map associated to an embedding of one Liouville domain into another. In this preprint, we look at exact Lagrangian submanifolds with Legendrian boundary inside a Liouville domain. The analogue of symplectic cohomology for such submanifolds is called "wrapped Floer cohomology". We construct an A_\infty-structure on the underlying wrapped Floer complex, and (under suitable assumptions) an A_\infty-homomorphism realizing the restriction to a Liouville subdomain. The construction of the A_\infty-structure relies on an implementation of homotopy direct limits, and involves some new moduli spaces which are solutions of generalized continuation map equations.


Global division of cohomology classes via injectivity

Abstract: We note that the vanishing and injectivity theorems of Koll\'ar and Esnault-Viehweg can be used to give a quick algebraic proof of a strengthening of the Ein-Lazarsfeld Skoda-type division theorem for global sections of adjoint line bundles vanishing along suitable multiplier ideal sheaves, and to extend it to higher cohomology classes as well. For global sections, this is also a slightly more general statement of the algebraic translation of an analytic result of Siu. Along the way we write down an injectivity statement for multiplier ideals, and its standard consequences.


Generalized theta linear series on moduli spaces of vector bundles on curves

Abstract: This article is based on lecture notes prepared for the August 2006 Cologne Summer School. The first part contains background material and references for beginners. The second (and main) part is a survey of the current status in the theory of pluri-theta linear series and generalized theta divisors on moduli spaces of vector bundles on curves. It emphasizes relatively new techniques employed in the analysis of linear series on these moduli spaces, namely the use of moduli spaces of stable maps for understanding Quot schemes, and the Fourier-Mukai functor in the study of coherent sheaves on abelian varieties. In addition, it briefly describes recent important developments, most significant of which is the proof of the Strange Duality conjecture due to Belkale and Marian-Oprea.


Lie Algebroids and Classification Problems in Geometry

Abstract: We show how one can associate to a given class of finite type G-structures a classifying Lie algebroid. The corresponding Lie groupoid gives models for the different geometries that one can find in the class, and encodes also the different types of symmetry groups.


Kirwan surjectivity in K-theory for Hamiltonian loop group quotients

Abstract: Let G be a compact Lie group and LG its associated loop group. The main result of this manuscript is a surjectivity theorem from the equivariant K-theory of a Hamiltonian LG-space onto the integral K-theory of its Hamiltonian LG-quotient. Our result is a K-theoretic analogue of previous work in rational Borel-equivariant cohomology of Bott, Tolman, and Weitsman. Our proof techniques differ from that of Bott, Tolman, and Weitsman in that they explicitly use the Borel construction, which we do not have at our disposal in equivariant K-theory; we instead directly construct G-equivariant homotopy equivalences to obtain the necessary isomorphisms in equivariant K-theory. The main theorem should also be viewed as a first step toward a similar theorem in K-theory for quasi-Hamiltonian G-spaces and their associated quasi-Hamiltonian quotients.


Tropical theta characteristics

Abstract: This note is a follow up of math.AG/0612267v2 and it is largely inspired by a beautiful description of Baker-Norine of non-effective degree (g-1) divisors via chip-firing game. We consider the set of all theta characteristics on a tropical curve and identify the Riemann constant as a unique non-effective one among them.


Simulation of a Local Time Fractional Stable Motion

Abstract: In this paper, we simulate sample paths of a class of symmetric $\alpha$-stable processes using their series expression. We will develop a result in the approximation of shot-noise series. And finally, we will get a convergence rate for the approximation.


The number of lattice paths below a cyclically shifting boundary

Abstract: We count the number of lattice paths lying under a cyclically shifting piecewise linear boundary of varying slope. Our main result extends well known enumerative formulae concerning lattice paths, and its derivation involves a classical reflection argument. A refinement allows for the counting of paths with a specified number of corners. We also apply the result to examine paths dominated by periodic boundaries.


Probabilistic analysis of the upwind scheme for transport

Abstract: We provide a probabilistic analysis of the upwind scheme for multi-dimensional transport equations. We associate a Markov chain with the numerical scheme and then obtain a backward representation formula of Kolmogorov type for the numerical solution. We then understand that the error induced by the scheme is governed by the fluctuations of the Markov chain around the characteristics of the flow. We show, in various situations, that the fluctuations are of diffusive type. As a by-product, we prove that the scheme is of order 1/2 for an initial datum in BV and of order 1/2-a, for all a>0, for a Lipschitz continuous initial datum. Our analysis provides a new interpretation of the numerical diffusion phenomenon.


An optimal extension of Perelman's comparison theorem for quadrangles and its applications

Abstract: In this paper we discuss an extension of Perelman's comparison for quadrangles. Among applications of this new comparison theorem, we study the equidistance evolution of hypersurfaces in Alexandrov spaces with non-negative curvature. We show that, in certain cases, the equidistance evolution of hypersurfaces become totally convex relative to a bigger sub-domain. An optimal extension of 2nd variational formula for geodesics by Petrunin will be derived for the case of non-negative curvature. In addition, we also introduced the generalized second fundament forms for subsets in Alexandrov spaces. Using this new notion, we will propose an approach to study two open problems in Alexandrov geometry.


On the ideals of equivariant tree models

Abstract: We introduce equivariant tree models in algebraic statistics, which unify and generalise existing tree models such as the general Markov model, the strand symmetric model, and group based models. We focus on the ideals of such models. We show how the ideals for general trees can be determined from the ideals for stars. The main novelty is our proof that this procedure yields the entire ideal, not just an ideal defining the model set-theoretically. A corollary of theoretical importance is that the ideal for a general tree is generated by the ideals of its flattenings at vertices.


Weakly dependent chains with infinite memory

Abstract: We prove the existence of a weakly dependent strictly stationary solution of the equation $ X_t=F(X_{t-1},X_{t-2},X_{t-3},...;\xi_t)$ called {\em chain with infinite memory}. Here the {\em innovations} $\xi_t$ constitute an independent and identically distributed sequence of random variables. The function $F$ takes values in some Banach space and satisfies a Lipschitz-type condition. We also study the interplay between the existence of moments and the rate of decay of the Lipschitz coefficients of the function $F$. With the help of the weak dependence properties, we derive Strong Laws of Large Number, a Central Limit Theorem and a Strong Invariance Principle.


An essentially saturated surface not of Kaehler-type

Abstract: It is shown that if $X$ is an Inoue surface of type $S_M$ then the irreducible components of the Douady space of $X^n$ are compact, for all $n>0$. This gives an example of an essentially saturated compact complex manifold (in the sense of model theory) that is not of Kaehler-type. Among the known compact complex surfaces without curves, it is shown that these are the only examples.


Increasing the number of fibered faces of arithmetic hyperbolic 3-manifolds

Abstract: We exhibit a closed hyperbolic 3-manifold which satisfies a very strong form of Thurston's Virtual Fibration Conjecture. In particular, this manifold has finite covers which fiber over the circle in arbitrarily many ways. More precisely, it has a tower of finite covers where the number of fibered faces of the Thurston norm ball goes to infinity, in fact faster than any power of the logarithm of the degree of the cover, and we give a more precise quantitative lower bound. The example manifold M is arithmetic, and the proof uses detailed number-theoretic information, at the level of the Hecke eigenvalues, to drive a geometric argument based on Fried's dynamical characterization of the fibered faces. The origin of the basic fibration of M over the circle is the modular elliptic curve E=X_0(49), which admits multiplication by the ring of integers of Q[sqrt(-7)]. We first base change the holomorphic differential on E to a cusp form on GL(2) over K=Q[sqrt(-3)], and then transfer over to a quaternion algebra D/K ramified only at the primes above 7; the fundamental group of M is a quotient of the principal congruence subgroup of level 7 of the multiplicative group of a maximal order of D. To analyze the topological properties of M, we use a new practical method for computing the Thurston norm, which is of independent interest. We also give a non-compact finite-volume hyperbolic 3-manifold with the same properties by using a direct topological argument.


The cohomological crepant resolution conjecture for P(1,3,4,4)

Abstract: We prove the cohomological crepant resolution conjecture of Ruan for the weighted projective space P(1,3,4,4). To compute the quantum corrected cohomology ring we combine the results of Coates-Corti-Iritani-Tseng on P(1,1,1,3) and our previous results.


Schramm-Loewner Evolution

Abstract: This is the first expository set of notes on SLE I have written since publishing a book two years ago [45]. That book covers material from a year-long class, so I cannot cover everything there. However, these notes are not just a subset of those notes, because there is a slight change of perspective. The main differences are: o I have defined SLE as a finite measure on paths that is not necessarily a probability measure. This seems more natural from the perspective of limits of lattice systems and seems to be more useful when extending SLE to non-simply connected domains. (However, I do not discuss non-simply connected domains in these notes.) o I have made more use of the Girsanov theorem in studying corresponding martingales and local martingales. As in [45], I will focus these notes on the continuous process SLE and will not prove any results about convergence of discrete processes to SLE. However, my first lecture will be about discrete processes -- it is very hard to appreciate SLE if one does not understand what it is trying to model.


Algebraic approximation of analytic sets and mappings

Abstract: Let {X_n} be a sequence of analytic sets converging to some analytic set X in the sense of holomorphic chains. We introduce a condition which implies that every irreducible component of X is the limit of a sequence of irreducible components of the sets from {X_n}. Next we apply the condition to approximate a holomorphic solution y=f(x) of a system Q(x,y)=0 of Nash equations by Nash solutions. Presented methods allow to construct an algorithm of approximation of the holomorphic solutions.


Using Gradual Numbers to Analyze Non-Monotonic Functions of Fuzzy Intervals

Abstract: Gradual numbers have been introduced recently as a means of extending standard interval computation methods to fuzzy intervals. The literature treats monotonic functions of fuzzy intervals. In this paper, we combine the concepts of gradual numbers and optimization, which allows for the evaluation of any differentiable function on fuzzy intervals, with no monotonicity requirement.


Parameter curves for the regular representations of tame bimodules

Abstract: We present results and examples which show that the consideration of a certain tubular mutation is advantageous in the study of noncommutative curves which parametrize the simple regular representations of a tame bimodule. We classify all tame bimodules where such a curve is actually commutative, or in different words, where the unique generic module has a commutative endomorphism ring. This extends results from [14] to arbitrary characteristic; in characteristic two additionally inseparable cases occur. Further results are concerned with autoequivalences fixing all objects but not isomorphic to the identity functor.


Relations between semidualizing complexes

Abstract: We study the following question: Given two semidualizing complexes B and C over a commutative noetherian ring R, does the vanishing of Ext^n_R(B,C) for n>>0 imply that B is C-reflexive? This question is a natural generalization of one studied by Avramov, Buchweitz, and Sega. We begin by providing conditions equivalent to B being C-reflexive, each of which is slightly stronger than the condition Ext^n_R(B,C)=0 for all n>>0. We introduce and investigate an equivalence relation \approx on the set of isomorphism classes of semidualizing complexes. This relation is defined in terms of a natural action of the derived Picard group and is well-suited for the study of semidualizing complexes over nonlocal rings. We identify numerous alternate characterizations of this relation, each of which includes the condition Ext^n_R(B,C)=0 for all n>>0. Finally, we answer our original question in some special cases.


On admissibility criteria for weak solutions of the Euler equations

Abstract: We consider solutions to the Cauchy problem for the incompressible Euler equations satisfying several additional requirements, like the global and local energy inequalities. Using some techniques introduced in an earlier paper we show that, for some bounded compactly supported initial data, none of these admissibility criteria singles out a unique weak solution. As a byproduct we show bounded initial data for which admissible solutions to the p-system of isentropic gas dynamics in Eulerian coordinates are not unique in more than one space dimension.


Mixed Weil cohomologies

Abstract: We define, for a regular scheme $S$ and a given field of characteristic zero $\KK$, the notion of $\KK$-linear mixed Weil cohomology on smooth $S$-schemes by a simple set of properties, mainly: Nisnevich descent, homotopy invariance, stability (which means that the cohomology of $\GG_{m}$ behaves correctly), and K\"unneth formula. We prove that any mixed Weil cohomology defined on smooth $S$-schemes induces a symmetric monoidal realization of some suitable triangulated category of motives over $S$ to the derived category of the field $\KK$. This implies a finiteness theorem and a Poincar\'e duality theorem for such a cohomology with respect to smooth and projective $S$-schemes (which can be extended to smooth $S$-schemes when $S$ is the spectrum of a perfect field). This formalism also provides a convenient tool to understand the comparison of such cohomology theories. Our main examples are algebraic de Rham cohomology and rigid cohomology, and the Berthelot-Ogus isomorphism relating them.


Local and stable homological algebra in Grothendieck abelian categories

Abstract: We define model category structures on the category of chain complexes over a Grothendieck abelian category depending on the choice of a generating family, and we study their behaviour with respect to tensor products and stabilization. This gives convenient tools to construct and understand triangulated categories of motives and we consider here the case of mixed motives over a regular base scheme.


Ricci and Scalar Curvature Rigidity of the Hemisphere

Abstract: We retract the scalar curvature rigidity theorem as there is a mistake in the proof. We thank S. Montiel for pointing out the mistake.


Lie algebra F-normalisers are intravariant

Abstract: Let F be a saturated formation of soluble Lie algebras and let U be an F-normaliser of the soluble Lie algebra L. Then U is intravariant in L.


Analysis of the optimal exercise boundary of American options for jump diffusions

Abstract: In this paper we show that the optimal exercise boundary / free boundary of the American put option pricing problem for jump diffusions is continuously differentiable (except at the maturity). This differentiability result has been established by Yang et al. (European Journal of Applied Mathematics, 17(1):95-127, 2006) in the case where the condition $r\geq q+ \lambda \int_{\R_+} (e^z-1) \nu(dz)$ is satisfied. We extend the result to the case where the condition fails using a unified approach that treats both cases simultaneously. We also show that the boundary is infinitely differentiable under a regularity assumption on the jump distribution.


The center of some braid groups and the Farrell cohomology of certain pure mapping class groups

Abstract: In this paper we first show that many braid groups of low genus surfaces have their centers as direct factors. We then give a description of centralizers and normalizers of prime order elements in pure mapping class groups of surfaces with spherical quotients using automorphism groups of fundamental groups of the quotient surfaces. As an application, we use these to show that the $p$-primary part of the Farrell cohomology groups of certain mapping class groups are elementary abelian groups. At the end we compute the $p$-primary part of the Farrell cohomology of a few pure mapping class groups.


Surfaces with maximal constant mean curvature

Abstract: In this note we consider asymptotically flat manifolds with non-negative scalar curvature and an inner boundary which is an outermost minimal surface. We show that there exists an upper bound on the mean curvature of a constant mean curvature surface homologous to a subset of the interior boundary components. This bound allows us to find a maximizer for the constant mean curvature of a surface homologous to the inner boundary. With this maximizer at hand, we can construct an increasing family of sets with boundaries of increasing constant mean curvature. We interpret this familiy as a weak version of a CMC foliation.


Rapid paths in von Neumann-Gale dynamical systems

Abstract: The paper examines random dynamical systems related to the classical von Neumann and Gale models of economic growth. Such systems are defined in terms of multivalued operators in spaces of random vectors, possessing certain properties of convexity and homogeneity. A central role in the theory of von Neumann-Gale dynamics is played by a special class of paths called rapid (they maximize properly defined growth rates). Up to now the theory lacked quite satisfactory results on the existence of such paths. This work provides a general existence theorem holding under assumptions analogous to the standard deterministic ones. The result solves a problem that remained open for more than three decades.


On some low dimensional quantum groups

Abstract: This paper is an adaptation of a chapter from an upcoming monograph on noncommutative geometry and quantum groups. We present examples of non compact quantum groups which are deformations of low dimensional Lie groups. The paper is of expository nature and provides both particular examples and some general procedures for constructing them.


Cubic polynomials with a parabolic point

Abstract: We consider the family of cubic polynomials with a simple parabolic fixed point. We prove that the boundary of the immediate basin of attraction of the parabolic point is a Jordan curve and give a description of the dynamics.


Fundamental groups of moduli stacks of smooth Weierstrass fibrations

Abstract: We give finite presentations for the fundamental group of moduli stacks of smooth Weierstrass curves over complex projective space P^n which extend the classical result for elliptic curves to positive dimensional base. We thus get natural generalisations of SL_2(Z) and pave the way to understanding the fundamental group of moduli stacks of elliptic surfaces in general. Our approach exploits the natural involution on Weierstrass curves and the identification of its fixed loci with smooth hypersurfaces in an appropriate linear system on a projective line bundle over P^n. The fundamental group of the corresponding discriminant complement can be presented in terms of finitely many generators and relations using methods in the Zariski tradition, which were sucessfully elaborated in mathAG/0602371.


The Loebl-Komlos-Sos conjecture for trees of diameter 5 and for certain caterpillars

Abstract: Loebl, Komlos, and Sos conjectured that if at least half the vertices of a graph G have degree at least some k, then every tree with at most k edges is a subgraph of G. We prove the conjecture for all trees of diameter at most 5 and for a class of caterpillars. Our result implies a bound on the Ramsey number r(T,F) of trees T, F from the above classes.


Matsuki's double coset decomposition via gradient maps

Abstract: Let $G$ be a real-reductive Lie group and let $G_1$ and $G_2$ be two subgroups given by involutions. We show how the technique of gradient maps can be used in order to obtain a new proof of Matsuki's parametrization of the closed double cosets $G_1\backslash G/G_2$ by Cartan subsets. We also describe the elements sitting in non-closed double cosets.


On the symmetry of minimizers

Abstract: For a large class of variational problems we prove that minimizers are symmetric whenever they are $C^1$.


C-Supplemented Subalgebras of Lie Algebras

Abstract: A subalgebra $B$ of a Lie algebra $L$ is {\em c-supplemented} in $L$ if there is a subalgebra $C$ of $L$ with $L = B + C$ and $B \cap C \leq B_L$, where $B_L$ is the core of $B$ in $L$. This is analogous to the corresponding concept of a c-supplemented subgroup in a finite group. We say that $L$ is {\em c-supplemented} if every subalgebra of $L$ is c-supplemented in $L$. We give here a complete characterisation of c-supplemented Lie algebras over a general field.


On some explicit semi-stable degenerations of toric varieties

Abstract: We study semi-stable degenerations of toric varieties determined by certain partitions of their moment polytopes. Analyzing their defining equations we prove a property of uniqueness.


Semistable reduction for overconvergent F-isocrystals, IV: Local semistable reduction at nonmonomial valuations

Abstract: We complete our proof that given an overconvergent F-isocrystal on a variety over a field of positive characteristic, one can pull back along a suitable generically finite cover to obtain an isocrystal which extends, with logarithmic singularities and nilpotent residues, to some complete variety. We also establish an analogue for F-isocrystals overconvergent inside a partial compactification. By previous results, this reduces to solving a local problem in a neighborhood of a valuation of height 1 and residual transcendence degree 0. We do this by studying the variation of some numerical invariants attached to p-adic differential modules, analogous to the irregularity of a complex meromorphic connection. This allows for an induction on the transcendence defect of the valuation, i.e., the discrepancy between the dimension of the variety and the rational rank of the valuation.


Projective manifolds containing a large linear subspace with nef normal bundle

Abstract: We classify smooth complex projective varieties $X \subset \proj^N$ of dimension $2s+1$ containing a linear subspace $\Lambda$ of dimension $s$ whose normal bundle $N_{\Lambda/X}$ is numerically effective.


Tauberian theorems and large deviations

Abstract: The link between Tauberian theorems and large deviations is surveyed, with particular reference to regular variation.


The Parabolic Two-Phase Membrane Problem: Regularity in Higher Dimensions

Abstract: For the parabolic obstacle-problem-like equation $$\Delta u - \partial_t u = \lambda_+ \chi_{\{u>0\}} - \lambda_- \chi_{\{u<0\}} ,$$ where $\lambda_+$ and $\lambda_-$ are positive Lipschitz functions, we prove in arbitrary finite dimension that the free boundary $\partial\{u>0\} \cup\partial\{u<0\}$ is in a neighborhood of each ``branch point'' the union of two Lipschitz graphs that are continuously differentiable with respect to the space variables. The result extends the elliptic paper \cite{imrn} to the parabolic case. The result is optimal in the sense that the graphs are in general not better than Lipschitz, as shown by a counter-example.


A note on the supremum of a stable process

Abstract: If $X$ is a spectrally positive stable process of index $\alpha\in(1,2)$ whose L\'{e}vy measure has density $cx^{-\alpha-1}$ on $(0,\infty),$ and $S_1=\sup_{0<t\leq1}X_t,$ it is known that $P(S_1>x)\backsim c\alpha^{-1}x^{-\alpha}$ as $x\to\infty.$ It is also known that $S_1$has a continuous density, $s$ say. The point of this note is to show that $s(x)\backsim cx^{-(\alpha+1)}$ as $x\to\infty.$


Predicting the Last Zero of Brownian Motion with Drift

Abstract: Given a standard Brownian motion $B^{\mu}=(B_t^{\mu})_{0\le t\le T}$ with drift $\mu \in IR$ and letting $g$ denote the last zero of $B^{\mu}$ before $T$, we consider the optimal prediction problem V_*=\inf_{0\le \tau \le T}\mathsf {E}\:|\:g-\tau | where the infimum is taken over all stopping times $\tau$ of $B^{\mu}$. Reducing the optimal prediction problem to a parabolic free-boundary problem and making use of local time-space calculus techniques, we show that the following stopping time is optimal: \tau_*=\inf {t\in [0,T] | B_t^{\mu} \le b_-(t) or B_t^{\mu} \ge b_+(t)} where the function $t\mapsto b_-(t)$ is continuous and increasing on $[0,T]$ with $b_-(T)=0$, the function $t\mapsto b_+(t)$ is continuous and decreasing on $[0,T]$ with $b_+(T)=0$, and the pair $b_-$ and $b_+$ can be characterised as the unique solution to a coupled system of nonlinear Volterra integral equations. This also yields an explicit formula for $V_*$ in terms of $b_-$ and $b_+$. If $\mu=0$ then $b_-=-b_+$ and there is a closed form expression for $b_{\pm}$ as shown in [10] using the method of time change from [4]. The latter method cannot be extended to the case when $\mu \ne 0$ and the present paper settles the remaining cases using a different approach.


Stochastic Homogenization of Reflected Diffusion Processes

Abstract: We investigate a functional limit theorem (homogenization) for Reflected Stochastic Differential Equations on a half-plane with stationary coefficients when it is necessary to analyze both the effective Brownian motion and the effective local time. We prove that the limiting process is a reflected non-standard Brownian motion. Beyond the result, this problem is known as a prototype of non-translation invariant problem making the usual method of the "environment as seen from the particle" inefficient.


Cumulative record times in a Poisson process

Abstract: We obtain a strong law of large numbers and a functional central limit theorem, as $t\to\infty$, for the number of records up to time $t$ and the Lebesgue measure (length) of the subset of the time interval $[0,t]$ during which the Poisson process is in a record lifetime.


Large deviations for directed percolation on a thin rectangle

Abstract: Following the recent investigations of Baik and Suidan in \cite{baik2005gcl} and Bodineau and Martin in \cite{bodineau2005upl}, we prove large deviation properties for a last-passage percolation model in $\mathbb{Z}^{2}_{+}$ whose paths are close to the axis. The results are mainly obtained when the random weights are Gaussian or have a finite moment-generating function and rely, as in \cite{baik2005gcl} and \cite{bodineau2005upl}, on an embedding in Brownian paths and the KMT approximation. The study of the subexponential case completes the exposition.


An analysis of two modifications of the Petersburg game

Abstract: Two modifications of the Petersburg game are considered: 1. Truncation, so that the player has a finite capital at his disposal. 2. A cost of borrowing capital, so that the player has to pay interest on the capital needed. In both cases limit theorems for the total net gain are derived, so that it is easy to judge if the game is favourable or not.


Symmetry approaches for reductions of PDEs, differential constraints and Lagrange-Charpit method

Abstract: Many methods for reducing and simplifying differential equations are known. They provide various generalizations of the original symmetry approach of Sophus Lie. Plenty of relations between them have been noticed and in this note a unifying approach will be discussed. It is rather close to the classical differential constraint method, but we provide certain rigorous results basing on recent advances in compatibility theory of non-linear overdetermined systems and homological methods for PDEs.


A polymer in a multi-interface medium

Abstract: We consider a model for a polymer chain interacting with a sequence of equispaced flat interfaces through a pinning potential. The intensity $\delta \in \mathbb {R}$ of the pinning interaction is constant, while the interface spacing $T=T_N$ is allowed to vary with the size $N$ of the polymer. Our main result is the explicit determination of the scaling behavior of the model in the large $N$ limit, as a function of $(T_N)_N$ and for fixed $\delta >0$. In particular, we show that a transition occurs at $T_N=O(\log N)$. Our approach is based on renewal theory.


Extending ring derivations to right and symmetric rings and modules of quotients

Abstract: We define and study the symmetric version of differential torsion theories. We prove that the symmetric versions of some of the existing results on derivations on right modules of quotients hold for derivations on symmetric modules of quotients. In particular, we prove that the symmetric Lambek, Goldie and perfect torsion theories are differential. We also study conditions under which a derivation on a right or symmetric module of quotients extends to a right or symmetric module of quotients with respect to a larger torsion theory. Using these results, we study extensions of ring derivations to maximal, total and perfect right and symmetric rings of quotients.


Statistical analysis of redundant systems with "warm" stand-by units

Abstract: Mathematical formulation of fluent switching from "warm" to "hot" conditions of standby units is given using the well known Sedyakin's and accelerated failure time (AFT) models. Non-parametric estimators of cumulative distribution function and mean failure time of a redundant system with several stand-by units are proposed. Goodness-of-fit tests for two given models are given.


Domains of attraction of the random vector $(X,X^2)$ and applications

Abstract: Many statistics are based on functions of sample moments. Important examples are the sample variance $s_{n-1}^2$, the sample coefficient of variation SV(n), the sample dispersion SD(n) and the non-central $t$-statistic $t(n)$. The definition of these quantities makes clear that the vector defined by (\sum_{i=1}^nX_i,\sum_{i=1}^nX_i^2) plays an important role. In studying the asymptotic behaviour of this vector we start by formulating best possible conditions under which the vector $(X,X^2)$ belongs to a bivariate domain of attraction of a stable law. This approach is new, uniform and simple. Our main results include a full discussion of the asymptotic behaviour of SV(n), SD(n) and $t^2(n)$. For simplicity, in restrict ourselves to positive random variables $X$.


Multivariate Regular Variation on Cones: Application to Extreme Values, Hidden Regular Variation and Conditioned Limit Laws

Abstract: We attempt to bring some modest unity to three subareas of heavy tail analysis and extreme value theory: limit laws for componentwise maxima of iid random variables;hidden regular variation and asymptotic independence;conditioned limit laws when one component of a random vector is extreme. The common theme is multivariate regular variation on a cone and the three cases cited come from specifying the cones $[0,\infty]^d\setminus \{\boldsymbol 0\};(0,\infty]^d;$ and $[0,\infty]\times (0,\infty]$.


Partial monoids and Dold-Thom functors

Abstract: Dold-Thom functors are generalizations of infinite symmetric products, where integer multiplicities of points are replaced by composable elements of a partial abelian monoid. It is well-known that for any connective homology theory, the machinery of $\Gamma$-spaces produces the corresponding linear Dold-Thom functor. In this note we construct such functors directly from spectra by exhibiting a partial monoid corresponding to a spectrum.


The elementary obstruction and the Weil restriction

Abstract: In this text we investigate the good behaviour of the elementary obstruction, introduced by Colliot-Thelene and Sansuc. This is an obstruction to the existence of a rational points on certain algebraic varieties. Assuming some conditions on the Picard group, we prove that the elementary obstruction behaves well under the Weil restriction of a variety.


Optimality of estimators for misspecified semi-Markov models

Abstract: Suppose we observe a geometrically ergodic semi-Markov process and have a parametric model for the transition distribution of the embedded Markov chain, for the conditional distribution of the inter-arrival times, or for both. The first two models for the process are semiparametric, and the parameters can be estimated by conditional maximum likelihood estimators. The third model for the process is parametric, and the parameter can be estimated by an unconditional maximum likelihood estimator. We determine heuristically the asymptotic distributions of these estimators and show that they are asymptotically efficient. If the parametric models are not correct, the (conditional) maximum likelihood estimators estimate the parameter that maximizes the Kullback--Leibler information. We show that they remain asymptotically efficient in a nonparametric sense.


Priscilla Greenwood: Queen of Probability

Abstract: This article contains the introduction to the special volume of Stochastics dedicated to Priscilla Greenwood, her CV and her list of publications.


On weak Lie 2-algebras

Abstract: A Lie 2-algebra is a linear category equipped with a functorial bilinear operation satisfying skew-symmetry and Jacobi identity up to natural transformations which themselves obey coherence laws of their own. Functors and natural transformations between Lie 2-algebras can also be defined, yielding a 2-category. Passing to the normalized chain complex gives an equivalence of 2-categories between Lie 2-algebras and 2-term "homotopy everything" Lie algebras; for strictly skew-symmetric Lie 2-algebras, these reduce to $L_\infty$-algebras, by a result of Baez and Crans. Lie 2-algebras appear naturally as infinitesimal symmetries of solutions of the Maurer--Cartan equation in some differential graded Lie algebras and $L_\infty$-algebras. In particular, (quasi-) Poisson manifolds, (quasi-) Lie bialgebroids and Courant algebroids provide large classes of examples.


Pointwise characterizations in generalized function algebras

Abstract: We define the algebra of Colombeau generalized functions on the space of generalized points of {\mathbb R}^d which naturally contains the tempered generalized functions. The subalgebra of \mathscr{S}-regular generalized functions of this algebra is characterized by a pointwise property of the generalized functions and their Fourier transforms. We also characterize the equality in the sense of generalized tempered distributions for certain elements of this algebra (namely those with so-called slow scale support) by means of a pointwise property of their Fourier transforms. Further, we show that (contrary to what has been claimed in the literature) for an open subset \Omega of {\mathbb R}^d, the algebra of pointwise regular generalized functions \dot{\mathcal G}^\infty(\Omega) equals {\mathcal G}^\infty(\Omega) and give several characterizations of pointwise {\mathcal G}^\infty-regular generalized functions.


Martingales and first passage times of AR(1) sequences

Abstract: Using the martingale approach we find sufficient conditions for exponential boundedness of first passage times over a level for ergodic first order autoregressive sequences (AR(1)). Further, we prove a martingale identity to be used in obtaining explicit bounds for the expectation of first passage times.


Embedding compacta into products of curves

Abstract: We present some results on n-dimensional compacta lying in n-dimensional products of compacta, in particular, in products of n 1-dimensional compacta. Most of our basic results are proven under the assumption that the compacta X admit essential maps into the n-sphere. The results of the present paper may be viewed as an extension of the theory developed so far by other authors. First, we prove that if X is an n-dimensional compactum with $H^n(X) \neq 0$ that embeds in either a product of n curves or the nth symmetric product of a curve, then there exists an algebraically essential map of X into the n-torus. Consequently, there exist elements $a_1,...,a_n$ in $H^1(X)$ whose cup product is non-zero. Therefore, the rank of $H^1(X)$ is at least n, and the category of X exceeds n. Next, we introduce some new classes of n-dimensional continua and show that embeddability of locally connected quasi n-manifolds into products of n curves also implies that the rank of $H^1(X)$ is at least n. It follows that some 2-dimensional contractible polyhedra are not embeddable in products of two curves. On the other hand, we show that any collapsible 2-dimensional polyhedron can be embedded in a product of two trees. We answer a question posed by Cauty proving that closed surfaces embeddable in products of two curves can be also embedded in products of two graphs. We prove that no closed surface, different from the 2-torus, lying in a product of two curves is a retract of that product.


Monotone versions of $\delta$-normality

Abstract: We continue the study of properties related to monotone countable paracompactness, investigating various monotone versions of $\delta$-normality. We factorize monotone normality and stratifiability in terms of these weaker properties.


On cyclic fixed points of spectra

Abstract: For a finite p-group G and a bounded below G-spectrum X of finite type mod p, the G-equivariant Segal conjecture for X asserts that the canonical map X^G --> X^{hG} is a p-adic equivalence. Let C_{p^n} be the cyclic group of order p^n. We show that if the C_p Segal conjecture holds for a C_{p^n} spectrum X, as well as for each of its C_{p^e} geometric fixed points for 0 < e < n, then then C_{p^n} Segal conjecture holds for X. Similar results hold for weaker forms of the Segal conjecture, asking only that the canonical map induces an equivalence in sufficiently high degrees, on homotopy groups with suitable finite coefficients.


A note on restricted X-ray transforms

Abstract: We show how the techniques introduces by Christ can be employed to derive endpoint $L^p-L^q$ bounds for the X-ray transform associated to the line complex generated by the curve $t\to(t,t^2,...,t^{d-1}).$ Almost-sharp Lorentz space estimates are produced as well.


The Kadets 1/4 theorem for polynomials

Abstract: We determine the maximal angular perturbation of the (n+1)th roots of unity permissible in the Marcinkiewicz-Zygmund theorem on L^p means of polynomials of degree at most n. For p=2, the result is an analogue of the Kadets 1/4 theorem on perturbation of Riesz bases of holomorphic exponentials.


On the cohomology rings of holomorphically fillable manifolds

Abstract: An odd-dimensional differentiable manifold is called \emph{holomorphically fillable} if it is diffeomorphic to the boundary of a compact strongly pseudoconvex complex manifold, \emph{Stein fillable} if this last manifold may be chosen to be Stein and \emph{Milnor fillable} if it is diffeomorphic to the abstract boundary of an isolated singularity of normal complex analytic space. We show that the homotopical dimension of a manifold-with-boundary of dimension at least 4 restricts the cohomology ring (with any coefficients) of its boundary. This gives restrictions on the cohomology rings of Stein fillable manifolds, on the dimension of the exceptional locus of any resolution of a given isolated singularity, and on the topology of smoothable singularities. We give also new proofs of structure theorems of Durfee & Hain and Bungart about the cohomology rings of Milnor fillable and respectively holomorphically fillable manifolds. The various structure theorems presented in this paper imply that in dimension at least 5, the classes of Stein fillable, Milnor fillable and holomorphically fillable manifolds are pairwise different.


Lacunarity and cyclic vectors for the Backward Shift

Abstract: This article gives a description of invariant subspaces for the backward shift generated by vector valued lacunary series and by a class of lacunary power series in $H^2(\mathbb{D}, X)$, (where $X$ is an Hilbert space). In particular, we show that these series $f$ in $H^2(\mathbb{D}, X)$ are cyclic vectors if and only if the queue of Taylor coefficients $\{\hat{f}(k)$, $k>N\}$ generates the whole space $X$. Analogues of this result are obtained for some functions whose spectrum is a finite union of lacunary sequences and in the polydisc. In the scalar case $H^2$, we give a criterion on the Fourier spectrum of the function to have cyclicity for any power of the backward shift.


Combinatorial rigidity for some infinitely renormalizable unicritical polynomials

Abstract: We prove combinatorial rigidity of infinitely renormalizable unicritical polynomials, P_c :z \mapsto z^d+c, with complex c, under the a priori bounds and a certain "combinatorial condition". This implies the local connectivity of the connectedness loci (the Mandelbrot set when d = 2) at the corresponding parameters.


Perfect Symmetric Rings of Quotients

Abstract: Perfect Gabriel filters of right ideals and their corresponding right rings of quotients have the desirable feature that every module of quotients is determined solely by the right ring of quotients. On the other hand, symmetric rings of quotients have a symmetry that mimics the commutative case. In this paper, we study rings of quotients that combine these two desirable properties. We define the symmetric versions of a right perfect ring of quotients and a right perfect Gabriel filter -- the perfect symmetric ring of quotients and the perfect symmetric Gabriel filter and study their properties. Then we prove that the standard construction of the total right ring of quotients can be adapted to the construction of the largest perfect symmetric ring of quotients -- the total symmetric ring of quotients. We also demonstrate that Morita's construction of the total right ring of quotients can be adapted to the construction of the total symmetric ring of quotients.


Invariants and submanifolds in almost complex geometry

Abstract: In this paper we describe the algebra of differential invariants for GL(n,C)-structures. This leads to classification of almost complex structures of general positions. The invariants are applied to the existence problem of higher-dimensional pseudoholomorphic submanifolds.


Anomaly of linearization and auxiliary integrals

Abstract: In this note we discuss some formal properties of universal linearization operator, relate this to brackets of non-linear differential operators and discuss application to the calculus of auxiliary integrals, used in compatibility reductions of PDEs.


Differential invariants of the motion group actions

Abstract: Differential invariants of a (pseudo)group action can vary when restricted to invariant submanifolds (differential equations). The algebra is still governed by the Lie-Tresse theorem, but may change a lot. We describe in details the case of the motion group $O(n)\ltimes\R^n$ acting on the full (unconstraint) jet-space as well as on some invariant equations.


Transformations of L\'evy Processes

Abstract: A L\'evy process on a *-bialgebra is given by its generator, a conditionally positive hermitian linear functional vanishing at the unit element. A *-algebra homomorphism k from a *-bialgebra C to a *-bialgebra B with the property that k respects the counits maps generators on B to generators on C. A tranformation between the corrresponding two L\'evy processes is given by forming infinitesimal convolution products. This general result is applied to various situations, e.g., to a *-bialgebra and its associated primitive tensor *-bialgebra (called "generator process") as well as its associated group-like *-bialgebra (called Weyl-*-bialgebra). It follows that a L\'evy process on a *-bialgebra can be realized on Bose Fock space as the infinitesimal convolution product of its generator process such that the vacuum vector is cyclic for the L\e'vy process. Moreover, we obtain convolution approximations of the Az\'ema martingale by the Wiener process and vice versa.


Negative correlation and log-concavity

Abstract: We give counterexamples and a few positive results related to several conjectures of R. Pemantle and D. Wagner concerning negative correlation and log-concavity properties for probability measures and relations between them. Most of the negative results have also been obtained, independently but somewhat earlier, by Borcea et al. We also give short proofs of a pair of results due to Pemantle and Borcea et al.; prove that "almost exchangeable" measures satisfy the "Feder-Mihail" property, thus providing a "non-obvious" example of a class of measures for which this important property can be shown to hold; and mention some further questions.


9 Divides no Odd Fibonacci

Abstract: I discuss numbers that divide no odd Fibonacci. Number 9 plays a special role among such numbers.


Hom-algebras and homology

Abstract: Classes of $G$-Hom-associative algebras are constructed as deformations of $G$-associative algebras along algebra endomorphisms. As special cases, we obtain Hom-associative and Hom-Lie algebras as deformations of associative and Lie algebras, respectively, along algebra endomorphisms. Chevalley-Eilenberg type homology for Hom-Lie algebras are also constructed.


Extending higher derivations to rings and modules of quotients

Abstract: A torsion theory is called differential (higher differential) if a derivation (higher derivation) can be extended from any module to the module of quotients corresponding to the torsion theory. We study conditions equivalent to higher differentiability of a torsion theory. It is known that the Lambek, Goldie and any perfect torsion theories are differential. We show that these classes of torsion theories are higher differential as well. Then, we study conditions under which a higher derivation extended to a right module of quotients extends also to a right module of quotients with respect to a larger torsion theory. Lastly, we define and study the symmetric version of higher differential torsion theories. We prove that the symmetric versions of the results on higher differential (one-sided) torsion theories hold for higher derivations on symmetric modules of quotients. In particular, we prove that the symmetric Lambek, Goldie and any perfect torsion theories are higher differential.


Asymptotic representations of the reduced C*-algebra of a free group: an example

Abstract: We give an example of a non-trivial asymptotic representation of the reduced C*-algebra of a free group. This example allows to evaluate the asymptotic tensor C*-norm of some elements in tensor product C*-algebras and to show semi-invertibility of the non-invertible extension of $C^*_r(\mathbb F_2)$ considered by Haagerup and Thorbjornsen.


A priori estimate of gradient of a solution to certain differential inequality and quasiconformal mappings

Abstract: We will prove a global estimate for the gradient of the solution to the {\it Poisson differential inequality} $|\Delta u(x)|\le a|\nabla u(x)|^2+b$, $x\in B^{n}$, where $a,b<\infty$ and $u|_{S^{n-1}}\in C^{1,\alpha}(S^{n-1}, \Bbb R^m)$. If $m=1$ and $a\le (n+1)/(|u|_\infty4n\sqrt n)$, then $|\nabla u| $ is a priori bounded. This generalizes some similar results due to E. Heinz (\cite{EH}) and Bernstein (\cite{BS}) for the plane. An application of these results yields the theorem, which is the main result of the paper: A quasiconformal mapping of the unit ball onto a domain with $C^2$ smooth boundary, satisfying the Poisson differential inequality, is Lipschitz continuous. This extends some results of the author, Mateljevi\'c and Pavlovi\'c from the complex plane to the space.


Special, conjugate and complete scale functions for spectrally negative L\'evy processes

Abstract: Following from recent developments by Hubalek and Kyprianou, the objective of this paper is to provide further methods for constructing new families of scale functions for spectrally negative L\'evy processes which are completely explicit. This is the result of an observation in the aforementioned paper which permits feeding the theory of Bernstein functions directly into the Wiener-Hopf factorization for spectrally negative L\'evy processes. Many new, concrete examples of scale functions are offered although the methodology in principle delivers still more explicit examples than those listed.


Test configurations, large deviations and geodesic rays on toric varieties

Abstract: This article contains a detailed study, in the toric case, of the test configuration geodesic rays defined by Phong-Sturm. We show that the `Bergman approximations' of Phong-Sturm converge in C^1 to the geodesic ray and that the geodesic ray itself is C^{1,1} and no better. The \kahler metrics associated to the geodesic ray of potentials are discontinuous across certain hypersurfaces and are degenerate on certain open sets. A novelty in the analysis is the connection between Bergman metrics, Bergman kernels and the theory of large deviations.


Network Tomography: Identifiability and Fourier Domain Estimation

Abstract: The statistical problem for network tomography is to infer the distribution of $\mathbf{X}$, with mutually independent components, from a measurement model $\mathbf{Y}=A\mathbf{X}$, where $A$ is a given binary matrix representing the routing topology of a network under consideration. The challenge is that the dimension of $\mathbf{X}$ is much larger than that of $\mathbf{Y}$ and thus the problem is often called ill-posed. This paper studies some statistical aspects of network tomography. We first address the identifiability issue and prove that the $\mathbf{X}$ distribution is identifiable up to a shift parameter under mild conditions. We then use a mixture model of characteristic functions to derive a fast algorithm for estimating the distribution of $\mathbf{X}$ based on the General method of Moments. Through extensive model simulation and real Internet trace driven simulation, the proposed approach is shown to be favorable comparing to previous methods using simple discretization for inferring link delays in a heterogeneous network.


Convergence Rates for Approximations of Functionals of SDEs

Abstract: We consider upper bounds for the approximation error E|g(X)-g(\hat X)|^p, where X and \hat X are random variables such that \hat X is an approximation of X in the L_p-norm, and the function g belongs to certain function classes, which contain e.g. functions of bounded variation. We apply the results to the approximations of a solution of a stochastic differential equation at time T by the Euler and Milstein schemes. For the Euler scheme we provide also a lower bound.


On Lusternik-Schnirelmann category of SO(10)

Abstract: Let $G$ be a compact connected Lie group and $p : E\to \Sigma A$ be a principal G-bundle with a characteristic map $\alpha : A\to G$, where $A=\Sigma A_{0}$ for some $A_{0}$. Let $\{K_{i}{\to} F_{i-1}{\hookrightarrow} F_{i} \,|\, 1{\le} i {\le} n,\, F_{0}{=} \{\ast\} \; F_{1}{=} \Sigma{K_{1}} \; \text{and}\; F_{n}{\simeq} G \}$ be a cone-decomposition of $G$ of length $m$ and $F'_{1}=\Sigma{K'_{1}} \subset F_{1}$ with $K'_{1} \subset K_{1}$ which satisfy $F_{i}F'_{1} \subset F_{i+1}$ up to homotopy for any $i$. Our main result is as follows: we have $\operatorname{cat}(X) \le m{+}1$, if firstly the characteristic map $\alpha$ is compressible into $F'_{1}$, secondly the Berstein-Hilton Hopf invariant $H_{1}(\alpha)$ vanishes in $[A, \Omega F'_1{\ast}\Omega F'_1]$ and thirdly $K_{m}$ is a sphere. We apply this to the principal bundle $\mathrm{SO}(9)\hookrightarrow\mathrm{SO}(10)\to S^{9}$ to determine L-S category of $\mathrm{SO}(10)$.


Subcritical regimes in some models of continuum percolation

Abstract: We consider some continuum percolation models. We are mainly interested in giving some sufficient conditions for absence of percolation. We give some general conditions and then focuse on two examples. The first one is a multiscale percolation model based on the Boolean model. It was introduced by Meester and Roy and subsequently studied by Menshikov, Popov and Vachkovskaia. The second one is based on the stable marriage of Poisson and Lebesgue introduced by Hoffman, Holroyd and Peres and whose percolation properties have been studied by Freire, Popov and Vachkovskaia.


Strichartz estimates for Schroedinger equations with periodic potential in 1D

Abstract: This paper has been withdrawn by the author due to a crucial error in the Proof of Theorem 0.3


Asymptotic Lower Bounds for a class of Schroedinger Equations

Abstract: We shall study the following initial value problem: \begin{equation}{\bf i}\partial_t u - \Delta u + V(x) u=0, \hbox{} (t, x) \in {\mathbf R} \times {\mathbf R}^n, \end{equation} $$u(0)=f,$$ where $V(x)$ is a real short--range potential, whose radial derivative satisfies some supplementary assumptions. More precisely we shall present a family of identities satisfied by the solutions to the previous Cauchy problem. As a by--product of these identities we deduce some uniqueness results and a lower bound for the so called local smoothing which becomes an identity in a precise asymptotic sense.


A bijection for rooted maps on orientable surfaces

Abstract: The enumeration of maps and the study of uniform random maps have been classical topics of combinatorics and statistical physics ever since the seminal work of Tutte in the sixties. Following the bijective approach initiated by Cori and Vauquelin in the eighties, we describe a bijection between rooted maps, or rooted bipartite quadrangulations, on a surface of genus g and some simpler objects that generalize plane trees. Thanks to a rerooting argument, our bijection allows to compute the generating series of rooted maps on a surface of genus g with respect to the number of edges, and to recover the asymptotic numbers of such maps. Our construction allows to keep track in a bipartite quadrangulation of the distances of all vertices to a random basepoint. This is an analog for higher genus surfaces of the basic result on which were built the recent advances in the comprehension of the intrinsec geometry of large random planar maps, hopefully opening the way to the study of a model of continuum random surfaces of genus g.


Large deviations for eigenvalues of sample covariance matrices, with applications to mobile communication systems

Abstract: We study sample covariance matrices of the form $W=\frac 1n C C^T$, where $C$ is a $k\times n$ matrix with i.i.d. mean zero entries. This is a generalization of so-called Wishart matrices, where the entries of $C$ are independent and identically distributed standard normal random variables. Such matrices arise in statistics as sample covariance matrices, and the high-dimensional case, when $k$ is large, arises in the analysis of DNA experiments. We investigate the large deviation properties of the largest and smallest eigenvalues of $W$ when either $k$ is fixed and $n\to \infty$, or $k_n\to \infty$ with $k_n=o(n/\log\log{n})$, in the case where the squares of the i.i.d. entries have finite exponential moments. Previous results, proving a.s. limits of the eigenvalues, only require finite fourth moments. Our most explicit results for $k$ large are for the case where the entries of $C$ are $\pm1$ with equal probability. We relate the large deviation rate functions of the smallest and largest eigenvalue to the rate functions for independent and identically distributed standard normal entries of $C$. This case is of particular interest, since it is related to the problem of the decoding of a signal in a code division multiple access system arising in mobile communication systems. In this example, $k$ plays the role of the number of users in the system, and $n$ is the length of the coding sequence of each of the users. Each user transmits at the same time and uses the same frequency, and the codes are used to distinguish the signals of the separate users. The results imply large deviation bounds for the probability of a bit error due to the interference of the various users.


Symmetry of singular solutions of degenerate quasilinear elliptic equations

Abstract: We prove radial symmetry of singular solutions to an overdetermined boundary value problem for a class of degenerate quasilinear elliptic equations.


Cellular structures on Hecke algebras of type B

Abstract: The aim of this paper is to gather and (try to) unify several approaches for the modular representation theory of Hecke algebras of type $B$. We attempt to explain the connections between Geck's cellular structures (coming from Kazhdan-Lusztig theory with unequal parameters) and Ariki's Theorem on the canonical basis of the Fock spaces.


Sharp tridiagonal pairs

Abstract: Let $K$ denote a field and let $V$ denote a vector space over $K$ with finite positive dimension. We consider a pair of $K$-linear transformations $A:V \to V$ and $A^*:V \to V$ that satisfies the following conditions: (i) each of $A,A^*$ is diagonalizable; (ii) there exists an ordering ${V_i}_{i=0}^d$ of the eigenspaces of $A$ such that $A^* V_i \subseteq V_{i-1} + V_{i} + V_{i+1}$ for $0 \leq i \leq d$, where $V_{-1}=0$ and $V_{d+1}=0$; (iii) there exists an ordering ${V^*_i}_{i=0}^\delta$ of the eigenspaces of $A^*$ such that $A V^*_i \subseteq V^*_{i-1} + V^*_{i} + V^*_{i+1}$ for $0 \leq i \leq \delta$, where $V^*_{-1}=0$ and $V^*_{\delta+1}=0$; (iv) there is no subspace $W$ of $V$ such that $AW \subseteq W$, $A^* W \subseteq W$, $W \neq 0$, $W \neq V$. We call such a pair a {\em tridiagonal pair} on $V$. It is known that $d=\delta$ and for $0 \leq i \leq d$ the dimensions of $V_i$, $V_{d-i}$, $V^*_i$, $V^*_{d-i}$ coincide. We say the pair $A,A^*$ is {\em sharp} whenever $\dim V_0=1$. A conjecture of Tatsuro Ito and the second author states that if $K$ is algebraically closed then $A,A^*$ is sharp. In order to better understand and eventually prove the conjecture, in this paper we begin a systematic study of the sharp tridiagonal pairs.


Generalizing a theorem of P. Hall on finite-by-nilpotent groups

Abstract: Let $\gamma_i(G)$ and $Z_i(G)$ denote the $i$-th terms of the lower and upper central series of a group $G$, respectively. P. Hall showed that if $\gamma_{i+1}(G)$ is finite then the index $|G:Z_{2i}(G)|$ is finite. We prove that the same result holds under the weaker hypothesis that $|\gamma_{i+1}(G):\gamma_{i+1}(G)\cap Z_i(G)|$ is finite.


Homological Algebra and Divergent Series

Abstract: We study some features of infinite resolutions of Koszul algebras motivated by the developments in the string theory initiated by Berkovits.


Monotone Numerical Schemes for a Dirichlet Problem for Elliptic Operators in Divergence Form

Abstract: We consider a second order differential operator $A(\msx) = -\:\sum_{i,j=1}^d \partial_i a_{ij}(\msx) \partial_j \:+\: \sum_{j=1}^d \partial_j \big(b_j(\msx) \cdot \big)\:+\: c(\msx)$ on ${\bbR}^d$, on a bounded domain $D$ with Dirichlet boundary conditions on $\partial D$, under mild assumptions on the coefficients of the diffusion tensor $a_{ij}$. The object is to construct monotone numerical schemes to approximate the solution to the problem $A(\msx) u(\msx) \: = \: \mu(\msx), \quad \msx \in D$, where $\mu$ is a positive Radon measure. We start by briefly mentioning questions of existence and uniqueness, introducing function spaces needed to prove convergence results. Then, we define non-standard stencils on grid-knots that lead to extended discretization schemes by matrices possesing compartmental structure. We proceed to discretization of elliptic operators, starting with constant diffusion tensor and ending with operators in divergence form. Finally, we discuss $W_2^1$-convergence in detail, and mention convergence in $C$ and $L_1$ spaces. We conclude by a numerical example illustarting the schemes and convergence results.


Relative Zariski Open Objects

Abstract: In [TV], Bertrand To\"en and Michel Vaqui\'e define a scheme theory for a closed monoidal category $(\mathcal{C},\otimes,1)$. One of the key ingredients of this theory is the definition of a Zariski topology on the category of commutative monoids in $\mathcal{C}$. The purpose of this article is to prove that under some hypotheses, Zariski open subobjects of affine schemes can be classified almost as in the usual case of rings $(Z-mod,\otimes,Z)$. The main result states that for any commutative monoid $A$, the locale of Zariski open subobjects of the affine scheme $Spec(A)$ is associated to a topological space whose points are prime ideals of $A$ and open subsets are defined by the same formula as in rings. As a consequence, we compare the notions of scheme over $\mathbb{F}_{1}$ of [D] and [TV].


Numerical approach to $L_1$-problems with the second order elliptic operators

Abstract: For a second order differential operator $A(\msx) =-\nabla a(\msx)\nabla + b'(\msx)\nabla+ \nabla \big(\msb''(\msx) \cdot\big)$ on a bounded domain $D$ with the Dirichlet boundary conditions on $\partial D$ there exists the inverse $T(\lambda, A)= (\lambda I+A)^{-1}$ in $L_1(D)$. If $\mu$ is a Radon (probability) measure on Borel algebra of subsets of $D$, then $T(\lambda, A)\mu \in L_p(D), p \in [1, d/(d-1))$. We construct the numerical approximations to $u =T(\lambda, A)\mu$ in two steps. In the first one we construct grid-solutions ${\bf u}_n$ and in the second step we embed grid-solutions into the linear space of hat functions $u(n) \in \dot{W}_p^1(D)$. The strong convergence to the original solutions $u$ is established in $L_p(D)$ and the weak convergence in $\dot{W}_p^1(D)$.


On limit theorems for continued fractions

Abstract: It is shown that for sums of functionals of digits in continued fraction expansion the Kolmogorov-Feller weak laws of large numbers and the Khinchine-L\'evy-Feller-Raikov characterization of the domain of attraction of the normal law hold.


On the sphericity of scaling limits of random planar quadrangulations

Abstract: We give a new proof of a theorem by Le Gall & Paulin, showing that scaling limits of random planar quadrangulations are homeomorphic to the 2-sphere. The main geometric tool is a reinforcement of the notion of Gromov-Hausdorff convergence, called 1-regular convergence, that preserves topological properties of metric surfaces.


Tessellations of random maps of arbitrary genus

Abstract: We investigate Voronoi-like tessellations of bipartite quadrangulations on surfaces of arbitrary genus, by using a natural generalization of a bijection of Marcus and Schaeffer allowing to encode such structures into labeled maps with a fixed number of faces. We investigate the scaling limits of the latter. Applications include asymptotic enumeration results for quadrangulations, and typical metric properties of randomly sampled quadrangulations. In particular, we show that scaling limits of these random quadrangulations are such that almost every pair of points are linked by a unique geodesic.


Curvature of classifying spaces for Brieskorn lattices

Abstract: We study tt*-geometry on the classifying space for regular singular TERP-structures, e.g., Fourier-Laplace transformations of Brieskorn lattices of isolated hypersurface singularities. We show that (a part of) this classifying space can be canonically equipped with a hermitian structure. We derive an estimate for the holomorphic sectional curvature of this hermitian metric, which is the analogue of a similar result for classifying spaces of pure polarized Hodge structures.


From Hopf C*-families to concrete Hopf C*-bimodules

Abstract: In the setting of von Neumann algebras, measurable quantum groupoids have successfully been axiomatized and studied by Enock, Vallin, and Lesieur, whereas in the setting of $C^{*}$-algebras, a similar theory of locally compact quantum groupoids could not yet be developed. Some basic building blocks for such a theory, like analogues of a Hopf-von Neumann bimodule and of a pseudo-multiplicative unitary, were introduced in the thesis and a recent article by the author. That approach, however, is restricted to decomposable quantum groupoids which generalize $r$-discrete groupoids. Recently, we developed a general approach that covers all locally compact groupoids. In this article, we explain how the special theory of our thesis embeds into the general one.


Central limit theorem for sampled sums of dependent random variables

Abstract: We prove a central limit theorem for linear triangular arrays under weak dependence conditions. Our result is then applied to the study of dependent random variables sampled by a $\bbZ$-valued transient random walk. This extends the results obtained by Guillotin-Plantard & Schneider (2003). An application to parametric estimation by random sampling is also provided.


The Baum-Connes conjecture for countable subgroups of SL(2)

Abstract: We present an alternative approach to the result of Guentner, Higson, and Weinberger concerning the Baum-Connes conjecture for finitely generated subgroups of SL(2,C). Using finite-dimensional methods, we show that the Baum-Connes assembly map for such groups is an isomorphism.


On a Hasse principle for Mordell-Weil groups

Abstract: In this paper we establish a Hasse principle concerning the linear dependence over $\Z$ of nontorsion points in the Mordell-Weil group of an abelian variety over a number field.


On the realizations of high dimensional solenoids as attractors and as non-wondering sets

Abstract: This paper will be splited into two papers and submited later.


Picard groups of Siegel modular threefolds and theta lifting

Abstract: We show that the Humbert surfaces rationally generate the Picard groups of Siegel modular threefolds.


Isometries Groups and a Multiresolution Analysis on Sub-Riemannian Manifolds

Abstract: In this letter we exhibit the relation between the isometries of a Riemannian contraction of a sub-Riemannian manifold and those of the sub-Riemannian metric, for to use this relation with two goals: establishing a result about the existence of fixed points of isometries groups; and the other, defining a Multiresolution Analysis (MRA) on sub-Riemannian manifolds that it will permit to obtain Haar's bases on the manifolds before mentioned. Keywords: Sub-Riemannian geometry, minimizing geodesic, Haar functions, self-similarity.


The rate of convergence of spectra of sample covariance matrices

Abstract: It is shown that the Kolmogorov distance between the spectral distribution function of a random covariance matrix $\frac1p XX^T$, where $X$ is a $n\times p$ matrix with independent entries and the distribution function of the Marchenko-Pastur law is of order $O(n^{-1/2})$. The bounds hold {\it uniformly} for any $p$, including $\frac pn$ equal or close to 1.


Passive systems with a normal main operator and quasi-selfadjoint systems

Abstract: Passive systems $\tau={T,M,N,H}$ with $M$ and $N$ as an input and output space and $H$ as a state space are considered in the case that the main operator on the state space is normal. Basic properties are given and a general unitary similarity result involving some spectral theoretic conditions on the main operator is established. A passive system $\tau$ with $M=N$ is said to be quasi-selfadjoint if $ran(T-T^*)\subset N$. The subclass $S^{qs}$ of the Schur class $S$ is the class formed by all transfer functions of quasi-selfadjoint passive systems. The subclass $S^{qs}$ is characterized and minimal passive quasi-selfadjoint realizations are studied. The connection between the transfer function belonging to the subclass $S^{qs}$ and the $Q$-function of $T$ is given.


Subelliptic Bourgain-Brezis Estimates on Groups

Abstract: We show that divergence free vector fields which belong to L^1 on stratified, nilpotent groups are in the dual space of functions whose sub-gradient are L^Q integrable where Q is the homogeneous dimension of the group. This was first obtained on Euclidean space by Bourgain and Brezis.


Elimination with applications to singularities in positive characteristic

Abstract: We present an application of elimination theory to the study of singularities over arbitrary fields, particularly to the open problem of resolution. A partial extension of a function, defining resolution of singularities over fields of characteristic zero, is discussed here in positive characteristic.


Nonparametric estimation for a stochastic volatility model

Abstract: Consider discrete time observations (X_{\ell\delta})_{1\leq \ell \leq n+1}$ of the process $X$ satisfying $dX_t= \sqrt{V_t} dB_t$, with $V_t$ a one-dimensional positive diffusion process independent of the Brownian motion $B$. For both the drift and the diffusion coefficient of the unobserved diffusion $V$, we propose nonparametric least square estimators, and provide bounds for theirrisk. Estimators are chosen among a collection of functions belonging to a finite dimensional space whose dimension is selected by a data driven procedure. Implementation on simulated data illustrates how the method works.


A priori $L^{\infty}$-estimates for degenerate complex Monge-Amp\`ere equations

Abstract: We study families of complex Monge-Amp\`ere equations, focusing on the case where the cohomology classes degenerate to a non big class. We establish uniform a priori $L^{\infty}$-estimates for the normalized solutions, generalizing the recent work of S. Kolodziej and G. Tian. This has interesting consequences in the study of the K\"ahler-Ricci flow.


Abstract: This paper has been withdrawn from the arXiv. It is now published by Elsevier in the Journal of Statistical Planning and Inference, under the modified title "Convergence properties of the expected improvement algorithm with fixed mean and covariance functions". See http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.jspi.2010.04.018 An author-generated post-print version is available from the HAL repository of SUPELEC at http://hal-supelec.archives-ouvertes.fr/hal-00217562 Abstract : "This paper deals with the convergence of the expected improvement algorithm, a popular global optimization algorithm based on a Gaussian process model of the function to be optimized. The first result is that under some mild hypotheses on the covariance function k of the Gaussian process, the expected improvement algorithm produces a dense sequence of evaluation points in the search domain, when the function to be optimized is in the reproducing kernel Hilbert space generated by k. The second result states that the density property also holds for P-almost all continuous functions, where P is the (prior) probability distribution induced by the Gaussian process."


Galois theory for iterative connections and nonreduced Galois groups

Abstract: This article presents a theory of modules with iterative connection. This theory is a generalisation of the theory of modules with connection in characteristic zero to modules over rings of arbitrary characteristic. We show that these modules with iterative connection (and also the modules with integrable iterative connection) form a Tannakian category, assuming some nice properties for the underlying ring, and we show how this generalises to modules over schemes. We also relate these notions to stratifications on modules, as introduced by A. Grothendieck in order to extend integrable (ordinary) connections to finite characteristic. Over smooth rings, we obtain an equivalence of stratifications and integrable iterative connections. Furthermore, over a regular ring in positive characteristic, we show that the category of modules with integrable iterative connection is also equivalent to the category of flat bundles as defined by D. Gieseker. In the second part of this article, we set up a Picard-Vessiot theory for fields of solutions. For such a Picard-Vessiot extension, we obtain a Galois correspondence, which takes into account even nonreduced closed subgroup schemes of the Galois group scheme on one hand and inseparable intermediate extensions of the Picard-Vessiot extension on the other hand. Finally, we compare our Galois theory with the Galois theory for purely inseparable field extensions.


Covering link calculus and iterated Bing doubles

Abstract: We give a new geometric obstruction to the iterated Bing double of a knot being a slice link: for n>1 the (n+1)-st iterated Bing double of a knot is rationally slice if and only if the n-th iterated Bing double of the knot is rationally slice. The main technique of the proof is a covering link construction simplifying a given link. We prove certain similar geometric obstructions for n <= 1 as well. Our results are sharp enough to conclude, when combined with algebraic invariants, that if the n-th iterated Bing double of a knot is slice for some n, then the knot is algebraically slice. Also our geometric arguments applied to the smooth case show that the Ozsvath-Szabo and Manolescu-Owens invariants give obstructions to iterated Bing doubles being slice. These results generalize recent results of Harvey, Teichner, Cimasoni, Cha and Cha-Livingston-Ruberman. As another application, we give explicit examples of algebraically slice knots with non-slice iterated Bing doubles by considering von Neumann rho-invariants and rational knot concordance. Refined versions of such examples are given, that take into account the Cochran-Orr-Teichner filtration.


Cubature on Wiener space in infinite dimension

Abstract: We prove a stochastic Taylor expansion for SPDEs and apply this result to obtain cubature methods, i. e. high order weak approximation schemes for SPDEs, in the spirit of T. Lyons and N. Victoir. We can prove a high-order weak convergence for well-defined classes of test functions if the process starts at sufficiently regular initial values. We can also derive analogous results in the presence of L\'evy processes of finite type, here the results seem to be new even in finite dimension. Several numerical examples are added.


Vanishing of trace forms in low characteristics

Abstract: Every finite-dimensional representation of an algebraic group G gives a trace symmetric bilinear form on the Lie algebra of G. We give criteria in terms of root system data for the existence of a representation such that this form is nonzero or nondegenerate. As a corollary, we show that a Lie algebra of type E8 over a field of characteristic 5 does not have a so-called "quotient trace form", answering a question posed in the 1960s.


Convex Hulls of Orbits and Orientations of a Moving Protein Domain

Abstract: We study the facial structure and Carath\'eodory number of the convex hull of an orbit of the group of rotations in R^3 acting on the space of pairs of anisotropic symmetric 3\times 3 tensors. This is motivated by the problem of determining the structure of some proteins in aqueous solution.


The conjecture H: A lower bound of cohomologic dimension for an elliptic space

Abstract: The goal of this paper is to ameliorate the sufficients conditions, already established by the first author so that the sum of the numbers of Betti, of 1-connected rational finite CW-complex, is higher than the dimension of his $\mathbb Q$-vectorial space of homotopy, we will present it in two aspects, one algebraic and another geometrical.


Simple algebras of Gelfand-Kirillov dimension two

Abstract: Let $k$ be a field. We show that a finitely generated simple Goldie $k$-algebra of quadratic growth is noetherian and has Krull dimension 1. Thus a simple algebra of quadratic growth is left noetherian if and only if it is right noetherian. As a special case, we see that if A is a finitely generated simple domain of quadratic growth then A is noetherian and by a result of Stafford every right and left ideal is generated by at most two elements. We conclude by posing questions and giving examples in which we consider what happens when the hypotheses are relaxed.


A Counterexample to a conjecture of Bosio and Meersseman

Abstract: In a paper of Bosio and Meersseman (Real quadrics in Cn, complex manifolds and convex polytopes) the following is conjectured: If P is dual neighborly, then Zp is diffeomorphic to the connected sum of products of spheres. In this paper a counterexample is provided.


Rotation set for maps of degree 1 on the graph sigma

Abstract: For a continuous map on a topological graph containing a unique loop S it is possible to define the degree and, for a map of degree 1, rotation numbers. It is known that the set of rotation numbers of points in S is a compact interval and for every rational r in this interval there exists a periodic point of rotation number r. The whole rotation set (i.e. the set of all rotation numbers) may not be connected and it is not known in general whether it is closed. The graph sigma is the space consisting in an interval attached by one of its endpoints to a circle. We show that, for a map of degree 1 on the graph sigma, the rotation set is closed and has finitely many connected components. Moreover, for all rational numbers r in the rotation set, there exists a periodic point of rotation number r.


Serre's Condition R_l for Affine Semigroup Rings

Abstract: In this note we characterize the affine semigroup rings K[S] over an arbitrary field K that satisfy condition R_l of Serre. Our characterization is in terms of the face lattice of the positive cone pos(S) of S. We start by reviewing some basic facts about the faces of pos(S) and consequences for the monomial primes of K[S]. After proving our characterization we turn our attention to the Rees algebras of a special class of monomial ideals in a polynomial ring over a field. In this special case, some of the characterizing criteria are always satisfied. We give examples of nonnormal affine semigroup rings that satisfy R_2.


Lie Algebroids and generalized projective structures on Riemann surfaces

Abstract: The space of generalized projective structures on a Riemann surface $\Sigma$ of genus g with n marked points is the affine space over the cotangent bundle to the space of SL(N)-opers. It is a phase space of $W_N$-gravity on $\Sigma\times\mathbb{R}$. This space is a generalization of the space of projective structures on the Riemann surface. We define the moduli space of $W_N$-gravity as a symplectic quotient with respect to the canonical action of a special class of Lie algebroids. This moduli space describes in particular the moduli space of deformations of complex structures on the Riemann surface by differential operators of finite order, or equivalently, by a quotient space of Volterra operators. We call these algebroids the Adler-Gelfand-Dikii (AGD) algebroids, because they are constructed by means of AGD bivector on the space of opers restricted on a circle. The AGD-algebroids are particular case of Lie algebroids related to a Poisson sigma-model. The moduli space of the generalized projective structure can be described by cohomology of a BRST-complex.


The well-ordering of dual braid monoids

Abstract: We describe the restriction of the Dehornoy ordering of braids to the dual braid monoids introduced by Birman, Ko and Lee: we give an inductive characterization of the ordering of the dual braid monoids and compute the corresponding ordinal type. The proof consists in introducing a new ordering on the dual braid monoid using the rotating normal form of arXiv:0811.3902 [math.GR], and then proving that this new ordering coincides with the standard ordering of braids.


On the convergence to the multiple Wiener-Ito integral

Abstract: We study the convergence to the multiple Wiener-It\^{o} integral from processes with absolutely continuous paths. More precisely, consider a family of processes, with paths in the Cameron-Martin space, that converges weakly to a standard Brownian motion in $\mathcal C_0([0,T])$. Using these processes, we construct a family that converges weakly, in the sense of the finite dimensional distributions, to the multiple Wiener-It\^{o} integral process of a function $f\in L^2([0,T]^n)$. We prove also the weak convergence in the space $\mathcal C_0([0,T])$ to the second order integral for two important families of processes that converge to a standard Brownian motion.


Invertible harmonic mappings, beyond Kneser

Abstract: We prove necessary and sufficient criteria of invertibility for planar harmonic mappings which generalize a classical result of H. Kneser, also known as the Rad\'{o}-Kneser-Choquet theorem.


Fermat's Four Squares Theorem

Abstract: It is easy to find a right-angled triangle with integer sides whose area is 6. There is no such triangle with area 5, but there is one with rational sides (a `\emph{Pythagorean triangle}'). For historical reasons, integers such as 6 or 5 that are (the squarefree part of) the area of some Pythagorean triangle are called `\emph{congruent numbers}'. These numbers actually are interesting for the following reason: Notice the sequence $\frac14$, $6\frac14$, $12\frac14$. It is an arithmetic progression with common difference 6, consisting of squares $(\frac12)^2$, $(\frac52)^2$, $(\frac72)^2$ of rational numbers. Indeed the common difference of three rational squares in AP is a congruent number and every congruent number is the common difference of three rational squares in arithmetic progression. The triangle given by $9^{2}+40^{2}=41^{2}$ has area $180=5\cdot6^{2}$ and the numbers $x-5$, $x$ and $x+5$ all are rational squares if $x=11{97/144}$. Recall one obtains all Pythagorean triangles with relatively prime integer sides by taking $x=4uv$, $y=\pm(4u^{2}-v^{2})$, $z=4u^{2}+v^{2}$ where $u$ and $v$ are integers with $2u$ and $v$ relatively prime. Fermat proved that there is no AP of more than three squares of rationals.


Topics in Special Functions

Abstract: The authors survey recent results in special functions, particularly the gamma function and the Gaussian hypergeometric function.


Classification of $k$-tangle projections using cascade representation

Abstract: The paper addresses the $k$-tangle enumeration problem. We introduce a notion of cascade diagram for $k$-tangle projections. An effective enumeration algorithm for projections is proposed based on cascade representation. Tangles projections with up to 12 crossings are tabulated. We provide also pictures of alternating $k$-tangles with 5 crossing or less.


Canonical bundles of complex nilmanifolds, with applications to hypercomplex geometry

Abstract: A nilmanifold is a quotient of a nilpotent group $G$ by a co-compact discrete subgroup. A complex nilmanifold is one which is equipped with a $G$-invariant complex structure. We prove that a complex nilmanifold has trivial canonical bundle. This is used to study hypercomplex nilmanifolds (nilmanifolds with a triple of $G$-invariant complex structures which satisfy quaternionic relations). We prove that a hypercomplex nilmanifold admits an HKT (hyperkahler with torsion) metric if and only if the underlying hypercomplex structure is abelian. Moreover, any $G$-invariant HKT-metric on a nilmanifold is balanced with respect to all associated complex structures.