Book 2147

The topic of this book sits at the interface of the theory of higher categories (in the guise of ( ,1)-categories) and the theory of properads. Properads are devices more general than operads and enable one to encode bialgebraic, rather than just (co)algebraic, structures.

The text extends both the Joyal-Lurie approach to higher categories and the Cisinski-Moerdijk-Weiss approach to higher operads, and provides a foundation for a broad study of the homotopy theory of properads. This work also serves as a complete guide to the generalised graphs which are pervasive in the study of operads and properads. A preliminary list of potential applications and extensions comprises the final chapter.

Infinity Properads and Infinity Wheeled Properads is written for mathematicians in the fields of topology, algebra, category theory, and related areas. It is written roughly at the second year graduate level, and assumes a basic knowledge of category theory.


Book 2192

Operads of Wiring Diagrams

by Donald Yau

Published 20 September 2018

Wiring diagrams form a kind of graphical language that describes operations or processes with multiple inputs and outputs, and shows how such operations are wired together to form a larger and more complex operation. This monograph presents a comprehensive study of the combinatorial structure of the various operads of wiring diagrams, their algebras, and the relationships between these operads.

The book proves finite presentation theorems for operads of wiring diagrams as well as their algebras. These theorems describe the operad in terms of just a few operadic generators and a small number of generating relations. The author further explores recent trends in the application of operad theory to wiring diagrams and related structures, including finite presentations for the propagator algebra, the algebra of discrete systems, the algebra of open dynamical systems, and the relational algebra. A partial verification of David Spivak's conjecture regarding the quotient-freeness of the relational algebra is also provided. In the final part, the author constructs operad maps between the various operads of wiring diagrams and identifies their images.

Assuming only basic knowledge of algebra, combinatorics, and set theory, this book is aimed at advanced undergraduate and graduate students as well as researchers working in operad theory and its applications. Numerous illustrations, examples, and practice exercises are included, making this a self-contained volume suitable for self-study.


Book 2279

Involutive Category Theory

by Donald Yau

Published 1 December 2020

This monograph introduces involutive categories and involutive operads, featuring applications to the GNS construction and algebraic quantum field theory. The author adopts an accessible approach for readers seeking an overview of involutive category theory, from the basics to cutting-edge applications. Additionally, the author’s own recent advances in the area are featured, never having appeared previously in the literature.

The opening chapters offer an introduction to basic category theory, ideal for readers new to the area. Chapters three through five feature previously unpublished results on coherence and strictification of involutive categories and involutive monoidal categories, showcasing the author’s state-of-the-art research. Chapters on coherence of involutive symmetric monoidal categories, and categorical GNS construction follow. The last chapter covers involutive operads and lays important coherence foundations for applications to algebraic quantum field theory.

With detailed explanations and exercises throughout, Involutive Category Theory is suitable for graduate seminars and independent study. Mathematicians and mathematical physicists who use involutive objects will also find this a valuable reference.