In this paper we introduce a new way of deforming convolution algebras and Fourier algebras on locally compact groups. We demonstrate that this new deformation allows us to reveal some information of the underlying groups by examining Banach algebra properties of deformed algebras. More precisely, we focus on representability as an operator algebra of deformed convolution algebras on compact connected Lie groups with connection to the real dimension of the underlying group. Similarly, we investigate complete representability as an operator algebra of deformed Fourier algebras on some finitely generated discrete groups with connection to the growth rate of the group.

We continue the investigation of the isomorphism problem for multiplier algebras of reproducing kernel Hilbert spaces with the complete Nevanlinna-Pick property. In contrast to previous work in this area, we do not study these spaces by identifying them with restrictions of a universal space, namely the Drury-Arveson space. Instead, we work directly with the Hilbert spaces and their reproducing kernels. In particular, we show that two multiplier algebras of Nevanlinna-Pick spaces on the same set are equal if and only if the Hilbert spaces are equal. Most of the article is devoted to the study of a special class of complete Nevanlinna-Pick spaces on homogeneous varieties. We provide a complete answer to the question of when two multiplier algebras of spaces of this type are algebraically or isometrically isomorphic. This generalizes results of Davidson, Ramsey, Shalit, and the author.

Kumjian and Pask introduced an aperiodicity condition for higher rank graphs. We present a detailed analysis of when this occurs in certain rank 2 graphs. When the algebra is aperiodic, we give another proof of the simplicity of $\mathrm{C}^*(\mathbb{F}^+_{\theta})$. The periodic $\mathrm{C}^*$-algebras are characterized, and it is shown that $\mathrm{C}^*(\mathbb{F}^+_{\theta}) \simeq \mathrm{C}(\mathbb{T})\otimes\mathfrak{A}$ where $\mathfrak{A}$ is a simple $\mathrm{C}^*$-algebra.