Events for 10/22/2014 from all calendars

Number Theory Seminar

Time: 1:45PM - 2:45PM

Location: BLOC 220

Speaker: Arunabha Biswas, Texas Tech University

Title: Asymptotic nature of higher Mahler measure

Abstract: We consider the k-higher Mahler measure m_k(P) of a Laurent polynomial P as the integral of log^k|P| over the complex unit circle. In this talk we present some new asymptotic results regarding m_k(P), especially an explicit formula for the value of |m_k(P)|/k! as k -> infinity.

URL: Event link

Groups and Dynamics Seminar

Time: 3:00PM - 4:00PM

Location: BLOC 220

Speaker: Noel Brady, University of Oklahoma

Title: Snowflake subgroups of CAT(0) groups

Abstract: CAT(0) groups are a class of groups which contain the fundamental groups of closed non-positively curved manifolds. The underlying non-positively curved geometry has nice consequences for the groups; for example, the groups satisfy a quadratic isoperimetric (area versus perimeter) inequality. In this talk we will discuss the question of possible isoperimetric behavior of finitely presented subgroups of CAT(0) groups. We will see how to construct CAT(0) groups which contain snowflake subgroups. This expands the known range of isoperimetric behavior of subgroups of CAT(0) groups.

Numerical Analysis Seminar

Time: 3:00PM - 4:00PM

Location: BLOC 628

Speaker: Brian Brennan, Baylor University

Title: NUMERICAL ANALYSIS OF A MULTI-PHYSICS MODEL FOR TRACE GAS SENSORS

Abstract: Trace gas sensors are currently used in many applications from leak detection to national security and may some day help with disease diagnosis. These sensors are modeled by a coupled system of complex elliptic partial dierential equations for pressure and temperature. Solutions are approximated using the finite element method which we will show admits a continuous and coercive problem with optimal H1 and L2 error estimates. Numerically, the finite element discretization yields a skew-Hermitian dominant matrix for which classical algebraic pre conditioners quickly degrade. We develop a block preconditioner that requires scalar Helmholtz solutions to apply but gives a very low outer iteration count. We also present analysis showing eigenvalues of the preconditioned system are mesh-dependent but with a small coefficient. Numerical experiments confirm our theoretical discussion.

AMUSE

Time: 6:00PM - 6:15PM

Location: BLOC 166

Speaker: Lauren Lohner, Texas A&M University

Title: What is an actuary? What does an actuary do?

Abstract: Although my major, even I was uncertain as to the answers to these questions before my internship. The role of an actuary is diverse and ever changing. Actuarial science is a competitive and engaging field with a strong math foundation. In this presentation, I will discuss the path on how to become an actuary and my experience as a retirement actuarial intern.

AMUSE

Time: 6:20PM - 6:35PM

Location: BLOC 166

Speaker: William Lyles, Texas A&M University

Title: Mathematical Programming in the Real World

Abstract: At its most fundamental level, computer science is a digital representation of the mathematical world that we all know. Limits, induction, and straightforward logic are all very important concepts in the world of computer science. But what actually goes into programming for a big company like Microsoft? In this talk, I discuss my work at Microsoft and give a glimpse into what it's like to be a software engineer and to use mathematical concepts in the world of programming.

AMUSE

Time: 6:40PM - 6:55PM

Location: BLOC 166

Speaker: Jefferson Bookhout, Texas A&M University

Title: Actuarial Science: Math Majors with a Talking Problem

Abstract: Many believe that actuaries simply do complex math problems for a living. These people are very mistaken! Delve into the application of mathematical theory integrated with the verbal communication which encompasses the enriched field of an Actuarial Analyst/Consultant. Discover the knowledge and skill sets one can obtain through the Towers Watson summer internship program where a deep understanding of numerical patterns, trends and projections are paired with the communication skills necessary to both inform and guide clients are fostered under an exciting and rich environment.