Exact Solutions of Integrable 2D Contour Dynamics

A class of exact solutions of the dispersionless Toda hierarchy constrained by a string equation is obtained. These solutions represent deformations of analytic curves with a finite number of nonzero harmonic moments. The corresponding tau-functions are determined and the emergence of cusps is studied.Comment: 13 pages, 3 figure

Genus-zero Whitham hierarchies in conformal-map dynamics

A scheme for solving quasiclassical string equations is developped to prove that genus-zero Whitham hierarchies describe the deformations of planar domains determined by rational conformal maps. This property is applied in normal matrix models to show that deformations of simply-connected supports of eigenvalues under changes of coupling constants are governed by genus-zero Whitham hierarchies.Comment: 12 pages, 3 figure

Phase transitions in multi-cut matrix models and matched solutions of Whitham hierarchies

We present a method to study phase transitions in the large N limit of matrix models using matched solutions of Whitham hierarchies. The endpoints of the eigenvalue spectrum as functions of the temperature are characterized both as solutions of hodograph equations and as solutions of a system of ordinary differential equations. In particular we show that the free energy of the matrix model is the quasiclassical tau-function of the associated hierarchy, and that critical processes in which the number of cuts changes in one unit are third-order phase transitions described by C1 matched solutions of Whitham hierarchies. The method is illustrated with the Bleher-Eynard model for the merging of two cuts. We show that this model involves also a birth of a cut

Detailed and GlobalAnalysis of a Remedial Course's Impact on Incoming Students' Marks

Engineering incoming students are facing great difficulties to overcome first course subjects. To tackle that situation and increase the students’ success a Remedial course in Mathematics was offered to Informatics Engineering freshmen. This study presents a statistical analysis of their results comparing the marks obtained by those joining the course (studio group) versus those who did not participate (control group). ANOVA tests are performed over the students’ marks averages as well as over each subject students marks. These tests show statistically significant differences between both groups, with the studio group consistently outperforming the control group at 99% confidence level in most cases and at more than 92% confidence level in every case

Camerabeing: (Un) Making the Inside

In the academic framework of the teaching of architectural projects, this article discusses the relevance of studying the historical and social significance of the emergence -in the second half of the nineteenth century and early twentieth century- of new techniques for the production of images that transform perception, the medias: photography and cinematography. The camera becomes an organ of vision or prosthetic eye. From the origins of photography, figures like Baudelaire are critical to its usefulness. Later, Benjamin, utilises film to establish key concepts for understanding the contemporary perception -the montage, the dialectical image, shock, etc.-. In this framework, it is possible to rethink with a critical attitude an architecture that redefines itself with time, and figures as Le Corbusier and Koolhaas exemplify, from production to reproduction, they pose transfers between disciplines. It demonstrates its own usefulness for the teaching of architectural projects.En el marco académico de la docencia en proyectos arquitectónicos, este artículo plantea la pertinencia de estudiar el significado histórico y social de la aparición - en la segunda mitad del siglo XIX y principios del siglo XX- de unas nuevas técnicas de producción de imágenes que transforman la percepción, los media: fotografía y cinematografía. La cámara pasa a ser un órgano de la visión o prótesis del ojo. Desde los orígenes de la fotografía figuras como Baudelaire son críticos con su utilidad. Posteriormente Benjamin, a través de la cinematografía establece conceptos clave para comprender la percepción contemporánea -el montaje, la imagen dialéctica, el shock, etc.-. En este marco teórico es posible replantear con actitud crítica una arquitectura que al tiempo se redefine y que figuras como Le Corbusier y Koolhaas ejemplifican, desde la producción a la reproducción plantean las transferencias entre disciplinas. Se expone su utilidad en el aprendizaje proyectual

Sperm stealers & post gay politics: Lesbian-parented families in film and television

This study is theoretically significant because it addresses gaps in scholarly knowledge regarding media representations of same-sex parented families, and more specficially, lesbian-parented families. Findings of this study may also inform content-producers as to trends in representation and relevant issues of power and sexuality as well as political-economic factors to consider in future productions. This study addresses the political economy of a segment of sexual minorities that already have an uneasy history with marketers: lesbians