title: numpy max vs amax vs maximum
body: <p>numpy has three different functions which seem like they can be used for the same things --- except that <code>numpy.maximum</code> can <em>only</em> be used element-wise, while <code>numpy.max</code> and <code>numpy.amax</code> can be used on particular axes, or all elements.  Why is there more than just <code>numpy.max</code>?  Is there some subtlety to this in performance?</p>
  
  <p>(Similarly for <code>min</code> vs. <code>amin</code> vs. <code>minimum</code>)</p>