Other Applied Mathematics Commons^™

Decoding The Algorithm: The Mathematics Behind Tiktok’S Short-Form Content Success, Ashley N. Lynch

Honors Scholar Theses

Within the realm of social networks, TikTok has become the central hub for short-form video content. The network’s unique ability to capture individual preferences using predictive analytics has greatly contributed to its massive success, allowing the company to optimize its performance and content personalization. In an age where digital media have such a significant influence on society, it is essential that users develop an understanding of how social network algorithms function to make more informed online decisions. Although TikTok’s technological system is primarily undisclosed, the platform certifiably leverages several key mathematical principles within its algorithm to achieve its core goals …

Combinatorial Optimization: Introductory Problems And Methods, Erin Brownell

Honors Scholar Theses

This paper will cover some topics of combinatorial optimization, the study of finding the best possible arrangement of a set of discrete objects. These topics include the shortest path problem and network flows, which can be extended to solve more complex problems. We will also briefly cover some basics of graph theory and solving linear programming problems to give context to the reader.

Mathematical Modeling Of Financial Derivative Pricing, Kelly L. Cosgrove

Honors Scholar Theses

The binomial asset-pricing model is used to price financial derivative securities. This text will begin by going over the probability concepts necessary to understand this discrete-time model. It then develops the theory behind the binomial model and different properties that arise. It shows how to use the binomial model to predict future stock prices, and then uses this information to price derivative securities. It initially focuses on the European call option, but goes on to provide a pricing method for the American put option. However, many of the theorems developed are applicable to all derivative securities. The text wraps up …

High Frequency Data: Modeling Durations Via The Acd And Log Acd Models, Lilian Cheung

Honors Scholar Theses

This thesis proposes a method of finding initial parameter estimates in the Log ACD₁ model for use in recursive estimation. The recursive estimating equations method is applied to the Log ACD₁ model to find recursive estimates for the unknown parameters in the model. A literature review is provided on the ACD and Log ACD models, and on the theory of estimating equations. Monte Carlo simulations indicate that the proposed method of finding initial parameter estimates is viable. The parameter estimation process is demonstrated by fitting an ACD model and a Log ACD model to a set of IBM …

Modeling Human Immune Response To The Lyme Disease-Causing Bacteria, Yevhen Rutovytskyy

Honors Scholar Theses

The purpose of this project is to develop and analyze a mathematical model

for the pathogen-host interaction that occurs during early Lyme disease.

Based on the known biophysics of motility of Borrelia burgdorferi and a

simple model for the immune response, a PDE model was created which tracks

the time evolution of the concentrations of bacteria and activated immune

cells in the dermis. We assume that a tick bite inoculates a highly

localized population of bacteria into the dermis. These bacteria can

multiply and migrate. The diffusive nature of the migration is assumed and

modeled using the heat equation. Bacteria …