The iterated logarithmic algebra. II: Sheffer sequences (Q1174853)

This interesting paper is both a sequel to another paper by the author (reference 1, with the correct reference [Adv. Math. 86, No. 2, 155-234 (1991)]) and together with that paper a voluminous elaboration on the subject of Umbral Calculus as elaborated by \textit{S. M. Roman} and \textit{G.-C. Rota} in [Adv. Math. 27, 95-188 (1978; Zbl 0375.05007)] and subsequently greatly expanded by these and many other authors, the present one included. In reference 1 the logarithmic algebra is introduced along with a variety of results concerning classes of functions closed under sum, product, real powers, logarithm, and formal properties associated with sequences. As is the case in most families of functions investigated in this combinatorial manner, operators (formal derivatives, exponentials, shirts, etc.) are looked for which permit description of elements of the algebra in useful and/or simple ways via these operators operating on basis (or a variety of pseudo-basis) elements described in some canonical fashion. In this particular paper, the program is applied to logarithmic analogs of Sheffer type sequences, which themselves are built on Roman graded sequences by means of Artinian operators \(g(D)\) of degree 0. The theorem 2.2 gives a useful set of equivalent characterizations (1), (2), (3), and (4). Borrowing techniques already developed in ref. 1, the calculating machinery is developed for these Sheffer-type sequences and through identification of special types of these sequences, the calculus is applied to obtain particular results for special types including logarithmic Appell (specialization to harmonic logarithms), logarithmic versions of Bernoulli-polynomials and others. Readers curious but unacquainted with the material or techniques used would benefit from going back to earlier references given in ref. 1. As the footnote at the end of the paper indicates, the subject is very dynamic and not all conventions have yet been entirely fixed.