The Eulerian numbers can D.I.E

Abstract

The Eulerian numbers form a triangular array with many interesting properties. The numbers arise from various combinatorial and probabilistic interpretations, and have been studied in a variety of mathematical contexts. In this article we examine two distinct alternating sign formulas for the Eulerian numbers and show how they can be proved using a sign-reversing involution technique described by Benjamin and Quinn known as the ``D.I.E.'' method. Each of these arguments lends itself to a broad generalization, shedding light on different parts of mathematics.

Accepted for publication in Mathematics Magazine