Higher order SPT functions for overpartitions, overpartitions with smallest part even, and partitions with smallest part even and without repeated odd parts (Q2254223)

In analogy with the work of \textit{F. G. Garvan} on ordinary partitions [Adv. Math. 228, No. 1, 241--265 (2011; Zbl 1268.11143)], the author defines ``higher order spt functions'' for overpartitions, overpartitions with smallest part even, and partitions without repeated odd parts and smallest part even. He begins by considering differences of certain crank and rank moments. Using generating functions for these moments combined with a result of Garvan on Bailey pairs, he finds \(q\)-hypergeometric multisum expressions for the moment differences which imply that they are positive. He then uses these multisums to define the higher spt functions in terms of weighted partitions, where the weight is a rather complicated sum over the compositions of \(k\) which involves the \(r\)th smallest parts of the partition, for \(r \geq 1\). When \(k=1\) the weight simplifies considerably and one recovers the usual smallest parts functions.