Mathematics Colloquium Series Talk to Feature Three Student Presentations

Three undergraduate students from the Farquhar College of Arts and Sciences will present their ongoing research, as part of the Mathematics Colloquium Series hosted by the college’s Division of Math, Science, and Technology.

Mathematics Colloquium Series | Three Student Talks

Wednesday, Nov. 28
Noon–1:00 p.m.
Mailman-Hollywood Building | Room 310

The following presentations will take place:

“The Humoral Immune System: Memory Formation and Function”
Abbiana Arenas, chemistry major at the college

The humoral immune response produces antibodies that are highly effective in clearing repeated challenges by specified viruses. The impact of the humoral system in response to the primary infection by a virus is hard to gauge, as components of both humoral and non-humoral responses are required for an efficient viral clearance. In order to better understand the humoral response and the formation of humoral memory of a virus, this research develops a model to track the response of its main components: CD4 cell, B cells, and antibodies. It also explores methods to fit the virus population to a fully-functioning immune system to better examine the formation of humoral memory and function by removing confounding variables involved in the cell-mediated response.

“Man Versus Monster: Life and Death in Innistrad”
Megan Brewster, computer science major at the college

In the lore of Magic: The Gathering, humans in the land of Innistrad find themselves at the mercy of vampires, a growing werewolf problem, and the rise of zombies. Based on the rules of interaction between humans, monsters, and foreign aid such as guardian angels, this research develops a model to study the dynamics of human and monster populations. It considers, simulates, and analyzes the role of our creatures based upon predator-prey interactions, as well as ponders what might happen to mankind over hundreds of years in Innistrad.

“Local Hotspots of Criminal Activity in a Non-Local Model”
Dean Gardner, computer science major at the college

Predicting and understanding the mechanisms underlying local regions of high criminal activity, or “hot spots,” is of fundamental importance in modern policing. This talk proposes a model that incorporates non-local interactions in the environment that may impact levels of criminal activity. It also explores the mechanisms and dynamics of the formation of local hotspots of criminal activity in a non-local model of such activity.

These students are working under the guidance of faculty adviser Evan Haskell, Ph.D., associate professor at the college.

About the Series

Now in its fourth year, the Mathematics Colloquium Series aims to increase awareness of mathematics’ importance and applications in daily life. The series also gives mathematics faculty members and students the opportunity to discuss independent research and share their passion for the subject. These talks are free and open to the public.

For more information, contact Vehbi Paksoy, Ph.D., or Iuliana Stanculescu, Ph.D., associate professors at the college.

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