Mathematics Commons^™

Review Of Stat-Spotting: A Field Guide To Identifying Dubious Data By Joel Best, Joe Swingle

Numeracy

Best, Joel. Stat-Spotting: A Field Guide to Identifying Dubious Data. (Berkeley: University of California Press, 2008) 144 pp. $19.95. ISBN 1-978-0-520-25746-7.

Stat-Spotting is a practical, do-it-yourself manual for detecting questionable claims reported in the media. Using examples drawn mostly from mass media sources, Stat-Spotting provides readers with a number of useful tips for identifying potentially problematic statistics. The author’s skillful analyses and explanations presented in clear and concise prose make Stat-Spotting an ideal guide for anyone who reads a newspaper, watches television, or surfs the Web. In short, everyone.

Review Of Calculation Vs. Context: Quantitative Literacy And Its Implications For Teacher Education By Bernard L. Madison And Lynn Arthur Steen (Editors), Maura B. Mast

Numeracy

Madison, Bernard L. and Steen, Lynn Arthur (Eds.). Calculation vs. Context: Quantitative Literacy and Its Implications for Teacher Education. (Washington, DC: Mathematical Association of America, 2009). 197 pp. Softcover. ISBN 978-0-88385-908-7. Available free on the MAA website at http://www.maa.org/ql/calcvscontext.html

The papers in Calculation vs. Context discuss the role of quantitative literacy in the K-12 curriculum and in teacher education. The papers present a varied set of perspectives and address three themes: the changing environment of education in American society; the challenges, and the necessity, of preparing teachers to teach quantitative literacy and of including quantitative literacy in the K-12 education; …

Engaging Math-Avoidant College Students, M. Paul Latiolais, Wendi Laurence

Numeracy

This paper is an informal, personal account of how we, as two college teachers, became interested in math anxiety, decided to explore it amongst students at our institution in order to inform our teaching, and became convinced that the massive problem is math avoidance. We tried discussion groups, but few students attended, although those that did made useful suggestions. Thus informed, we designed an innovative course, Confronting College Mathematics as a Humanities course with the possibility of credit toward the math requirement, but it was undersubscribed in its first offering and had to be canceled. How can we get college …

Measuring Resource Inequality: The Gini Coefficient, Michael T. Catalano, Tanya L. Leise, Thomas J. Pfaff

Numeracy

This paper stems from work done by the authors at the Mathematics for Social Justice Workshop held in June of 2007 at Middlebury College. We provide a description of the Gini coefficient and some discussion of how it can be used to promote quantitative literacy skills in mathematics courses. The Gini Coefficient was introduced in 1921 by Italian statistician Corrado Gini as a measure of inequality. It is defined as twice the area between two curves. One, the Lorenz curve for a given population with respect to a given resource, represents the cumulative percentage of the resource as a function …

Quantitative Literacy Assessments: An Introduction To Testing Tests, Dorothy Wallace, Kim Rheinlander, Steven Woloshin, Lisa Schwartz

Numeracy

This paper describes how professional evaluators construct assessment instruments that work properly to measure the right thing. Constructing an assessment tool begins with getting feedback from relevant experts on the content of questions. The tool is developed and refined through comparison with existing instruments, focus groups and cognitive interviews. The final instrument is formally tested for content validity, usability, reliability and construct validity through a variety of statistical measures. This process of construction is illustrated by two examples relevant to quantitative literacy: the Medical Data Interpretation Test and the Math Attitudes Survey.

Integration With Writing Programs: A Strategy For Quantitative Reasoning Program Development, Nathan D. Grawe, Carol A. Rutz

Numeracy

As an inherently interdisciplinary endeavor, quantitative reasoning (QR) risks falling through the cracks between the traditional “silos” of higher education. This article describes one strategy for developing a truly cross-campus QR initiative: leverage the existing structures of campus writing programs by placing QR in the context of argument. We first describe the integration of Carleton College’s Quantitative Inquiry, Reasoning, and Knowledge initiative with the Writing Program. Based on our experience, we argue that such an approach leads to four benefits: it reflects important aspects of QR often overlooked by other approaches; it defuses the commonly raised objection that QR is …

Assessing Quantitative Reasoning, Corrine H. Taylor

Numeracy

No abstract provided.

Fusion Of The Parastrophic Matrix And Weak Cayley Table, Nathan C. Perry

Theses and Dissertations

The parastrophic matrix and Weak Cayley Tables are matrices that have close ties to the character table. Work by Ken Johnson has shown that fusion of groups induces a relationship between the character tables of the groups. In this paper we will demonstrate a similar induced relationship between the parastrophic matrices and Weak Cayley Tables of the fused groups.

Discrete Variable Methods For Delay-Differential Equations With Threshold-Type Delays, Z. Jackiewicz, Barbara Zubik-Kowal

Mathematics Faculty Publications and Presentations

We study numerical solution of systems of delay-differential equations in which the delay function, which depends on the unknown solution, is defined implicitly by the threshold condition. We study discrete variable numerical methods for these problems and present error analysis. The global error is composed of the error of solving the differential systems, the error from the threshold conditions and the errors in delay arguments. Our theoretical analysis is confirmed by numerical experiments on threshold problems from the theory of epidemics and from population dynamics.

Stability And Asymptoticity Of Volterra Difference Equations: A Progress Report, Saber Elaydi

Mathematics Faculty Research

We survey some of the fundamental results on the stability and asymptoticity of linear Volterra difference equations. The method of Ζ-transform is heavily utilized in equations of convolution type. An example is given to show that uniform asymptotic stability does not necessarily imply exponential stabilty. It is shown that the two notions are equivalent if the kernel decays exponentially. For equations of nonconvolution type, Liapunov functions are used to find explicit criteria for stability. Moreover, the resolvent matrix is defined to produce a variation of constants formula. The study of asymptotic equivalence for difference equations with infinite delay is carried …

Oscillation Criteria For Second-Order Forced Dynamic Equations With Mixed Nonlinearities, Ravi P. Agarwal, Agacik Zafer

Mathematics and System Engineering Faculty Publications

We obtain new oscillation criteria for second-order forced dynamic equations on time scales containing mixed nonlinearities of the form (r(t) Φα (xΔ))Δ + f (t, xσ) = e(t), t ∈ [t0, ∞) T with f(t, x) = q(t)Φα(x) + ∑i=1nqi(t)Φβi (x), Φ* (u) = u *-1u, where [t0, ∞)T is a time scale interval with t0 ∈ T, the functions r, q, qi, e: [t0, ∞)T → ℝ are right-dense continuous with r > 0, σ is the forward jump operator, xσ(t) := x (σ(t)), and β1 > ⋯ > βm > α > βm+1 > ⋯ βn > 0. All results obtained are new even for …

Variational Analysis In Semi-Infinite And Infinite Programming, I: Stability Of Linear Inequality Systems Of Feasible Solutions, M J. Cánovas, M A. Lopez, Boris S. Mordukhovich, J Parra

Mathematics Research Reports

This paper concerns applications of advanced techniques of variational analysis and generalized differentiation to parametric problems of semi-infinite and infinite programming, where decision variables run over finite-dimensional and infinite-dimensional spaces, respectively. Part I is primarily devoted to the study of robust Lipschitzian stability of feasible solutions maps for such problems described by parameterized systems of infinitely many linear inequalities in Banach spaces of decision variables indexed by an arbitrary set T. The parameter space of admissible perturbations under consideration is formed by all bounded functions on T equipped with the standard supremum norm. Unless the index set is finite, this …

A Comparison Of Balanced Truncation Methods For Closed Loop Systems, John R. Singler, Belinda A. Batten

Mathematics and Statistics Faculty Research & Creative Works

Real-time control of a physical system necessitates controllers that are low order. In this paper, we compare two balanced truncation methods as a means of designing low order compensators for partial differential equation (PDE) systems. The first method is the application of balanced truncation to the compensator dynamics, rather than the state dynamics, as was done in cite{Skelton:1984}. The second method, LQG balanced truncation, applies the balancing technique to the Riccati operators obtained from a specific LQG design. We discuss snapshot-based algorithms for constructing the reduced order compensators and present numerical results for a two dimensional convection diffusion PDE system.

Finite-Difference And Pseudo-Sprectral Methods For The Numerical Simulations Of In Vitro Human Tumor Cell Population Kinetics, Z. Jackiewicz, Barbara Zubik-Kowal, B. Basse

Mathematics Faculty Publications and Presentations

Pseudo-spectral approximations are constructed for the model equations which describe the population kinetics of human tumor cells in vitro and their responses to radiotherapy or chemotherapy. These approximations are more efficient than finite-difference approximations. The spectral accuracy of the pseudo-spectral method allows us to resolve the model with a much smaller number of spatial grid-points than required for the finite-difference method to achieve comparable accuracy. This is demonstrated by numerical experiments which show a good agreement between predicted and experimental data.

Confidence Intervals For The Ratio Of Two Exponential Means With Applications To Quality Control, James Albert Polcer,Iii

Student Research Conference Select Presentations

We considered the problem of statistical quality control based on the ratio of two population means. We restrict the discussion for two exponential rates, which are commonly used for modeling failure times of components, machines, or systems. Closed form expressions via the moment generation function (MGF) technique will be presented, and numerical examples will be shown using engineering data sets.

Cutting A Pie Is Not A Piece Of Cake, J. B. Barbanel, S. J. Brams, Walter Stromquist

Mathematics & Statistics Faculty Works

No abstract provided.

Gaussian Perturbations Of Circle Maps: A Spectral Approach, John Mayberry

College of the Pacific Faculty Articles

In this work, we examine spectral properties of Markov transition operators corresponding to Gaussian perturbations of discrete time dynamical systems on the circle. We develop a method for calculating asymptotic expressions for eigenvalues (in the zero noise limit) and show that changes to the number or period of stable orbits for the deterministic system correspond to changes in the number of limiting modulus 1 eigenvalues of the transition operator for the perturbed process. We call this phenomenon a λ-bifurcation. Asymptotic expressions for the corresponding eigenfunctions and eigenmeasures are also derived and are related to Hermite functions. © Institute of Mathematical …

Circular Nonlinear Subdivision Schemes For Curve Design, Jian-Ao Lian, Yonghui Wang, Yonggao Yang

Applications and Applied Mathematics: An International Journal (AAM)

Two new families of nonlinear 3-point subdivision schemes for curve design are introduced. The first family is ternary interpolatory and the second family is binary approximation. All these new schemes are circular-invariant, meaning that new vertices are generated from local circles formed by three consecutive old vertices. As consequences of the nonlinear schemes, two new families of linear subdivision schemes for curve design are established. The 3-point linear binary schemes, which are corner-cutting depending on the choices of the tension parameter, are natural extensions of the Lane-Riesenfeld schemes. The four families of both nonlinear and linear subdivision schemes are implemented …

On Generalized Hurwitz-Lerch Zeta Distributions, Mridula Garg, Kumkum Jain, S. L. Kalla

Applications and Applied Mathematics: An International Journal (AAM)

In this paper, we introduce a function which is an extension to the general Hurwitz-Lerch Zeta function. Having defined the incomplete generalized beta type-2 and incomplete generalized gamma functions, some differentiation formulae are established for these incomplete functions. We have introduced two new statistical distributions, termed as generalized Hurwitz-Lerch Zeta beta type-2 distribution and generalized Hurwitz-Lerch Zeta gamma distribution and then derived the expressions for the moments, distribution function, the survivor function, the hazard rate function and the mean residue life function for these distributions. Graphs for both these distributions are given, which reflect the role of shape and scale …

Analytical Solution Of Time-Fractional Advection Dispersion Equation, Tariq O. Salim, Ahmad El-Kahlout

Applications and Applied Mathematics: An International Journal (AAM)

In this paper, we get exact solution of the time-fractional advection-dispersion equation with reaction term, where the Caputo fractional derivative is considered of order α ϵ (0,2]. The solution is achieved by using a function transform, Fourier and Laplace transforms to get the formulas of the fundamental solution, which are expressed explicitly in terms of Fox’s H-function by making use of the relationship between Fourier and Mellin transforms. As special cases the exact solutions of time-fractional diffusion and wave equations are also obtained, and the solutions of the integer order equations are mentioned.

Chemchains: A Platform For Simulation And Analysis Of Biochemical Networks Aimed To Laboratory Scientists, Tomáš Helikar, Jim A. Rogers

Mathematics Faculty Publications

Background: New mathematical models of complex biological structures and computer simulation software allow modelers to simulate and analyze biochemical systems in silico and form mathematical predictions. Due to this potential predictive ability, the use of these models and software has the possibility to compliment laboratory investigations and help refine, or even develop, new hypotheses. However, the existing mathematical modeling techniques and simulation tools are often difficult to use by laboratory biologists without training in high-level mathematics, limiting their use to trained modelers. Results: We have developed a Boolean network-based simulation and analysis software tool, ChemChains, which combines the advantages of …

Generalized Shifts On Cartesian Products, M. Rajagopalan, K. Sundaresan

Mathematics and Statistics Faculty Publications

It is proved that if E, F are infinite dimensional strictly convex Banach spaces totally incomparable in a restricted sense, then the Cartesian product E×F with the sum or sup norm does not admit a forward shift. As a corollary it is deduced that there are no backward or forward shifts on the Cartesian product`p1×`p2,1< p16=p2<∞, with the supremum norm thus settling a problem left open in Rajagopalan and Sundaresan in J. Analysis 7 (1999(, 75-81 and also a problem stated as unsolved in Rassias and Sundaresan.

Mehler-Fock Transformation Of Ultradistribution, Deshna Loonker, P. K. Banerji

Applications and Applied Mathematics: An International Journal (AAM)

This paper deals with the testing function space Z and its dual Z', which is known as ultradistrbution. Some theorems and properties are investigated for the Mehler-Fock transformation and its inverse for the ultradistribution.

Sequence Characterization Of Riordan Arrays, Tian-Xiao He, Renzo Sprugnoli

Scholarship

In the realm of the Riordan group, we consider the characterization of Riordan arrays by means of the A- and Z-sequences. It corresponds to a horizontal construction of a Riordan array, whereas the traditional approach is through column generating functions. We show how the A- and Z-sequences of the product of two Riordan arrays are derived from those of the two factors; similar results are obtained for the inverse. We also show how the sequence characterization is applied to construct easily a Riordan array. Finally, we give the characterizations relative to some subgroups of the Riordan group, in particular, of …

Closed Knight's Tours With Minimal Square Removal For All Rectangular Boards, Joseph Demaio, Thomas Hippchen

Faculty Articles

A closed knight's tour of a chessboard uses legal moves of the knight to visit every square exactly once and return to its starting position. In 1991 Schwenk completely classified the rectangular chessboards that admit a closed knight's tour. For a rectangular chessboard that does not contain a closed knight's tour, this paper determines the minimum number of squares that must be removed in order to admit a closed knight's tour. Furthermore, constructions that generate a closed tour once appropriate squares are removed are provided.

Analysis Of Rotating Flow Around A Growing Protein Crystal, Daniel N. Riahi, Charles W. Obare

School of Mathematical & Statistical Sciences Faculty Publications

We consider the problem of steady flow around a growing protein crystal in a medium of its solution in a normal gravity environment. The whole flow system is assumed to be rotating with a constant angular velocity about a vertical axis which is anti-parallel to the gravity vector. Convective flow takes place due to the solute depletion around the growing crystal which leads to a buoyancy driven flow. Such convective flow can produce inhomogeneous solute concentration, which subsequently generate non-uniformities in the crystal’s structure finalizing lower quality protein crystal. Using scaling analysis within a diffusion boundary layer around the crystal, …

Self Similar Flows In Finite Or Infinite Two Dimensional Geometries, Leonardo Xavier Espin Estevez

Dissertations

This study is concerned with several problems related to self-similar flows in pulsating channels. Exact or similarity solutions of the Navier-Stokes equations are of practical and theoretical importance in fluid mechanics. The assumption of self-similarity of the solutions is a very attractive one from both a theoretical and a practical point of view. It allows us to greatly simplify the Navier-Stokes equations into a single nonlinear one-dimensional partial differential equation (or ordinary differential equation in the case of steady flow) whose solutions are also exact solutions of the Navier-Stokes equations in the sense that no approximations are required in order …

Discreet Dynamical Population Models : Higher Dimensional Pioneer-Climax Models, Yogesh Joshi

Dissertations

There are many population models in the literature for both continuous and discrete systems. This investigation begins with a general discrete model that subsumes almost all of the discrete population models currently in use. Some results related to the existence of fixed points are proved. Before launching into a mathematical analysis of the primary discrete dynamical model investigated in this dissertation, the basic elements of the model - pioneer and climax species - are described and discussed from an ecological as well as a dynamical systems perspective. An attempt is made to explain why the chosen hierarchical form of the …

Numerical Detection Of Complex Singularities In Two And Three Dimensions, Kamyar Malakuti

Dissertations

Singularities often occur in solutions to partial differential equations; important examples include the formation of shock fronts in hyperbolic equations and self-focusing type blow up in nonlinear parabolic equations. Information about formation and structure of singularities can have significant role in interfacial fluid dynamics such as Kelvin-Helmholtz instability, Rayleigh-Taylor instability, and Hele-Shaw flow. In this thesis, we present a new method for the numerical analysis of complex singularities in solutions to partial differential equations. In the method, we analyze the decay of Fourier coefficients using a numerical form fit to ascertain the nature of singularities in two and three-dimensional functions. …

Discussing Vocation As A Part Of A Senior Capstone Class, Maria Zack

ACMS Conference Proceedings 2009

Many of us in Christian higher education are seeking ways to help our students discern their own sense of call. At the 2007 ACMS meeting Greg Crow and I participated in a panel on vocation and published a related paper in the Journal of the ACMS. This current paper discusses what has been learned from incorporating some of our ideas into our department's senior capstone course. This has been very meaningful for both the students and the faculty involved.