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   121 %% \author{Roberta Graff\affil{1}{University of Cambridge, Cambridge,
   121 %% \author{Roberta Graff\affil{1}{University of Cambridge, Cambridge,
   122 %% United Kingdom},
   122 %% United Kingdom},
   123 %% Javier de Ruiz Garcia\affil{2}{Universidad de Murcia, Bioquimica y Biologia
   123 %% Javier de Ruiz Garcia\affil{2}{Universidad de Murcia, Bioquimica y Biologia
   124 %% Molecular, Murcia, Spain}, \and Franklin Sonnery\affil{2}{}}
   124 %% Molecular, Murcia, Spain}, \and Franklin Sonnery\affil{2}{}}
   125 
   125 
   126 \author{Scott Morrison\affil{1}{Miller Institute for Basic Research, UC Berkeley, CA 94704, USA} \and Kevin Walker\affil{2}{Microsoft Station Q, 2243 CNSI Building, UC Santa Barbara, CA 93106, USA}}
   126 \author{Scott Morrison\affil{1}{Miller Institute for Basic Research, UC Berkeley, CA 94704, USA} 
       
   127 \and Kevin Walker\affil{2}{Microsoft Station Q, 2243 CNSI Building, UC Santa Barbara, CA 93106, USA}}
   127 
   128 
   128 \contributor{Submitted to Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences
   129 \contributor{Submitted to Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences
   129 of the United States of America}
   130 of the United States of America}
   130 
   131 
   131 %% The \maketitle command is necessary to build the title page.
   132 %% The \maketitle command is necessary to build the title page.
   133 
   134 
   134 %%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%
   135 %%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%%
   135 \begin{article}
   136 \begin{article}
   136 
   137 
   137 \begin{abstract}
   138 \begin{abstract}
   138 We explain the need for new axioms for topological quantum field theories that include ideas from derived categories and homotopy theory. We summarize our axioms for higher categories, and describe the `blob complex'. Fixing an $n$-category $\cC$, the blob complex associates a chain complex $\bc_*(W;\cC)$ to any $n$-manifold $W$. The $0$-th homology of this chain complex recovers the usual TQFT invariants of $W$. The higher homology groups should be viewed as generalizations of Hochschild homology. The blob complex has a very natural definition in terms of homotopy colimits along decompositions of the manifold $W$. We outline the important properties of the blob complex, and sketch the proof of a generalization of Deligne's conjecture on Hochschild cohomology and the little discs operad to higher dimensions.
   139 We explain the need for new axioms for topological quantum field theories that include ideas from derived 
       
   140 categories and homotopy theory. We summarize our axioms for higher categories, and describe the `blob complex'. 
       
   141 Fixing an $n$-category $\cC$, the blob complex associates a chain complex $\bc_*(W;\cC)$ to any $n$-manifold $W$. 
       
   142 The $0$-th homology of this chain complex recovers the usual TQFT invariants of $W$. 
       
   143 The higher homology groups should be viewed as generalizations of Hochschild homology. 
       
   144 The blob complex has a very natural definition in terms of homotopy colimits along decompositions of the manifold $W$. 
       
   145 We outline the important properties of the blob complex, and sketch the proof of a generalization of 
       
   146 Deligne's conjecture on Hochschild cohomology and the little discs operad to higher dimensions.
   139 \end{abstract}
   147 \end{abstract}
   140 
   148 
   141 
   149 
   142 %% When adding keywords, separate each term with a straight line: |
   150 %% When adding keywords, separate each term with a straight line: |
   143 \keywords{n-categories | topological quantum field theory | hochschild homology}
   151 \keywords{n-categories | topological quantum field theory | hochschild homology}
   174 A linear 0-category is a vector space, and a representation
   182 A linear 0-category is a vector space, and a representation
   175 of a vector space is an element of the dual space.
   183 of a vector space is an element of the dual space.
   176 Thus a TQFT assigns to each closed $n$-manifold $Y$ a vector space $A(Y)$,
   184 Thus a TQFT assigns to each closed $n$-manifold $Y$ a vector space $A(Y)$,
   177 and to each $(n{+}1)$-manifold $W$ an element of $A(\bd W)^*$.
   185 and to each $(n{+}1)$-manifold $W$ an element of $A(\bd W)^*$.
   178 For the remainder of this paper we will in fact be interested in so-called $(n{+}\epsilon)$-dimensional
   186 For the remainder of this paper we will in fact be interested in so-called $(n{+}\epsilon)$-dimensional
   179 TQFTs, which are slightly weaker structures and do not assign anything to general $(n{+}1)$-manifolds, but only to mapping cylinders.
   187 TQFTs, which are slightly weaker structures and do not assign anything to general $(n{+}1)$-manifolds, 
       
   188 but only to mapping cylinders.
   180 
   189 
   181 When $k=n-1$ we have a linear 1-category $A(S)$ for each $(n{-}1)$-manifold $S$,
   190 When $k=n-1$ we have a linear 1-category $A(S)$ for each $(n{-}1)$-manifold $S$,
   182 and a representation of $A(\bd Y)$ for each $n$-manifold $Y$.
   191 and a representation of $A(\bd Y)$ for each $n$-manifold $Y$.
   183 The TQFT gluing rule in dimension $n$ states that
   192 The TQFT gluing rule in dimension $n$ states that
   184 $A(Y_1\cup_S Y_2) \cong A(Y_1) \ot_{A(S)} A(Y_2)$,
   193 $A(Y_1\cup_S Y_2) \cong A(Y_1) \ot_{A(S)} A(Y_2)$,
   191 We call a TQFT semisimple if $A(S)$ is a semisimple 1-category for all $(n{-}1)$-manifolds $S$
   200 We call a TQFT semisimple if $A(S)$ is a semisimple 1-category for all $(n{-}1)$-manifolds $S$
   192 and $A(Y)$ is a finite-dimensional vector space for all $n$-manifolds $Y$.
   201 and $A(Y)$ is a finite-dimensional vector space for all $n$-manifolds $Y$.
   193 Examples of semisimple TQFTs include Witten-Reshetikhin-Turaev theories, 
   202 Examples of semisimple TQFTs include Witten-Reshetikhin-Turaev theories, 
   194 Turaev-Viro theories, and Dijkgraaf-Witten theories.
   203 Turaev-Viro theories, and Dijkgraaf-Witten theories.
   195 These can all be given satisfactory accounts in the framework outlined above.
   204 These can all be given satisfactory accounts in the framework outlined above.
   196 (The WRT invariants need to be reinterpreted as $3{+}1$-dimensional theories with only a weak dependence on interiors in order to be
   205 (The WRT invariants need to be reinterpreted as $3{+}1$-dimensional theories with only a weak 
       
   206 dependence on interiors in order to be
   197 extended all the way down to dimension 0.)
   207 extended all the way down to dimension 0.)
   198 
   208 
   199 For other non-semisimple TQFT-like invariants, however, the above framework seems to be inadequate.
   209 For other non-semisimple TQFT-like invariants, however, the above framework seems to be inadequate.
   200 For example, the gluing rule for 3-manifolds in Ozsv\'{a}th-Szab\'{o}/Seiberg-Witten theory
   210 For example, the gluing rule for 3-manifolds in Ozsv\'{a}th-Szab\'{o}/Seiberg-Witten theory
   201 involves a tensor product over an $A_\infty$ 1-category associated to 2-manifolds \cite{1003.0598,1005.1248}.
   211 involves a tensor product over an $A_\infty$ 1-category associated to 2-manifolds \cite{1003.0598,1005.1248}.
   232 They are more general in that we make no duality assumptions in the top dimension $n+1$.
   242 They are more general in that we make no duality assumptions in the top dimension $n+1$.
   233 They are less general in that we impose stronger duality requirements in dimensions 0 through $n$.
   243 They are less general in that we impose stronger duality requirements in dimensions 0 through $n$.
   234 Thus our $n$-categories correspond to $(n{+}\epsilon)$-dimensional unoriented or oriented TQFTs, while
   244 Thus our $n$-categories correspond to $(n{+}\epsilon)$-dimensional unoriented or oriented TQFTs, while
   235 Lurie's (fully dualizable) $n$-categories correspond to $(n{+}1)$-dimensional framed TQFTs.
   245 Lurie's (fully dualizable) $n$-categories correspond to $(n{+}1)$-dimensional framed TQFTs.
   236 
   246 
   237 At several points we only sketch an argument briefly; full details can be found in \cite{1009.5025}. In this paper we attempt to give a clear view of the big picture without getting bogged down in technical details.
   247 At several points we only sketch an argument briefly; full details can be found in \cite{1009.5025}. 
       
   248 In this paper we attempt to give a clear view of the big picture without getting 
       
   249 bogged down in technical details.
   238 
   250 
   239 
   251 
   240 \section{Definitions}
   252 \section{Definitions}
   241 \subsection{$n$-categories} \mbox{}
   253 \subsection{$n$-categories} \mbox{}
   242 
   254 
   257 %of the main theorems; and (2) specify a minimal set of generators and/or axioms.
   269 %of the main theorems; and (2) specify a minimal set of generators and/or axioms.
   258 %We separate these two tasks, and address only the first, which becomes much easier when not burdened by the second.
   270 %We separate these two tasks, and address only the first, which becomes much easier when not burdened by the second.
   259 %More specifically, life is easier when working with maximal, rather than minimal, collections of axioms.}
   271 %More specifically, life is easier when working with maximal, rather than minimal, collections of axioms.}
   260 
   272 
   261 We will define two variations simultaneously,  as all but one of the axioms are identical
   273 We will define two variations simultaneously,  as all but one of the axioms are identical
   262 in the two cases. These variations are `linear $n$-categories', where the sets associated to $n$-balls with specified boundary conditions are in fact vector spaces, and `$A_\infty$ $n$-categories', where these sets are chain complexes.
   274 in the two cases. These variations are `linear $n$-categories', where the sets associated to 
       
   275 $n$-balls with specified boundary conditions are in fact vector spaces, and `$A_\infty$ $n$-categories', 
       
   276 where these sets are chain complexes.
   263 
   277 
   264 
   278 
   265 There are five basic ingredients 
   279 There are five basic ingredients 
   266 \cite{life-of-brian} of an $n$-category definition:
   280 \cite{life-of-brian} of an $n$-category definition:
   267 $k$-morphisms (for $0\le k \le n$), domain and range, composition,
   281 $k$-morphisms (for $0\le k \le n$), domain and range, composition,
   279 In a Moore loop space, we have a separate space $\Omega_r$ for each interval $[0,r]$, and a 
   293 In a Moore loop space, we have a separate space $\Omega_r$ for each interval $[0,r]$, and a 
   280 {\it strictly associative} composition $\Omega_r\times \Omega_s\to \Omega_{r+s}$.
   294 {\it strictly associative} composition $\Omega_r\times \Omega_s\to \Omega_{r+s}$.
   281 Thus we can have the simplicity of strict associativity in exchange for more morphisms.
   295 Thus we can have the simplicity of strict associativity in exchange for more morphisms.
   282 We wish to imitate this strategy in higher categories.
   296 We wish to imitate this strategy in higher categories.
   283 Because we are mainly interested in the case of strong duality, we replace the intervals $[0,r]$ not with
   297 Because we are mainly interested in the case of strong duality, we replace the intervals $[0,r]$ not with
   284 a product of $k$ intervals (c.f. \cite{0909.2212}) but rather with any $k$-ball, that is, any $k$-manifold which is homeomorphic
   298 a product of $k$ intervals (c.f. \cite{0909.2212}) but rather with any $k$-ball, that is, 
       
   299 any $k$-manifold which is homeomorphic
   285 to the standard $k$-ball $B^k$.
   300 to the standard $k$-ball $B^k$.
   286 
   301 
   287 By default our balls are unoriented,
   302 By default our balls are unoriented,
   288 but it is useful at times to vary this,
   303 but it is useful at times to vary this,
   289 for example by considering oriented or Spin balls.
   304 for example by considering oriented or Spin balls.
   302 homeomorphisms which are not the identity on the boundary of the $k$-ball.
   317 homeomorphisms which are not the identity on the boundary of the $k$-ball.
   303 The action of these homeomorphisms gives the ``strong duality" structure.
   318 The action of these homeomorphisms gives the ``strong duality" structure.
   304 As such, we don't subdivide the boundary of a morphism
   319 As such, we don't subdivide the boundary of a morphism
   305 into domain and range --- the duality operations can convert between domain and range.
   320 into domain and range --- the duality operations can convert between domain and range.
   306 
   321 
   307 Later we inductively define an extension of the functors $\cC_k$ to functors $\cl{\cC}_k$ from arbitrary manifolds to sets. We need the restriction of these functors to $k$-spheres, for $k<n$, for the next axiom.
   322 Later we inductively define an extension of the functors $\cC_k$ to functors $\cl{\cC}_k$ 
       
   323 from arbitrary manifolds to sets. We need the restriction of these functors to $k$-spheres, 
       
   324 for $k<n$, for the next axiom.
   308 
   325 
   309 \begin{axiom}[Boundaries]\label{nca-boundary}
   326 \begin{axiom}[Boundaries]\label{nca-boundary}
   310 For each $k$-ball $X$, we have a map of sets $\bd: \cC_k(X)\to \cl{\cC}_{k-1}(\bd X)$.
   327 For each $k$-ball $X$, we have a map of sets $\bd: \cC_k(X)\to \cl{\cC}_{k-1}(\bd X)$.
   311 These maps, for various $X$, comprise a natural transformation of functors.
   328 These maps, for various $X$, comprise a natural transformation of functors.
   312 \end{axiom}
   329 \end{axiom}
   318 This means that in the top dimension $k=n$ the sets $\cC_n(X; c)$ have the structure
   335 This means that in the top dimension $k=n$ the sets $\cC_n(X; c)$ have the structure
   319 of an object of $\cS$, and all of the structure maps of the category (above and below) are
   336 of an object of $\cS$, and all of the structure maps of the category (above and below) are
   320 compatible with the $\cS$ structure on $\cC_n(X; c)$.
   337 compatible with the $\cS$ structure on $\cC_n(X; c)$.
   321 
   338 
   322 
   339 
   323 Given two hemispheres (a `domain' and `range') that agree on the equator, we need to be able to assemble them into a boundary value of the entire sphere.
   340 Given two hemispheres (a `domain' and `range') that agree on the equator, we need to be able to 
       
   341 assemble them into a boundary value of the entire sphere.
   324 
   342 
   325 \begin{lem}
   343 \begin{lem}
   326 \label{lem:domain-and-range}
   344 \label{lem:domain-and-range}
   327 Let $S = B_1 \cup_E B_2$, where $S$ is a $k{-}1$-sphere $(1\le k\le n)$,
   345 Let $S = B_1 \cup_E B_2$, where $S$ is a $k{-}1$-sphere $(1\le k\le n)$,
   328 $B_i$ is a $k{-}1$-ball, and $E = B_1\cap B_2$ is a $k{-}2$-sphere (Figure \ref{blah3}).
   346 $B_i$ is a $k{-}1$-ball, and $E = B_1\cap B_2$ is a $k{-}2$-sphere (Figure \ref{blah3}).
   490 When $X$ is a $k$-ball with $k<n$, $\Bord^n(X)$ is the set of all $k$-dimensional
   508 When $X$ is a $k$-ball with $k<n$, $\Bord^n(X)$ is the set of all $k$-dimensional
   491 submanifolds $W$ in $X\times \bbR^\infty$ which project to $X$ transversely
   509 submanifolds $W$ in $X\times \bbR^\infty$ which project to $X$ transversely
   492 to $\bd X$.
   510 to $\bd X$.
   493 For an $n$-ball $X$ define $\Bord^n(X)$ to be homeomorphism classes rel boundary of such $n$-dimensional submanifolds.
   511 For an $n$-ball $X$ define $\Bord^n(X)$ to be homeomorphism classes rel boundary of such $n$-dimensional submanifolds.
   494 
   512 
   495 There is an $A_\infty$ analogue enriched in topological spaces, where at the top level we take all such submanifolds, rather than homeomorphism classes. For each fixed $\bdy W \subset \bdy X \times \bbR^\infty$, we can topologize the set of submanifolds by ambient isotopy rel boundary.
   513 There is an $A_\infty$ analogue enriched in topological spaces, where at the top level we take 
       
   514 all such submanifolds, rather than homeomorphism classes. 
       
   515 For each fixed $\bdy W \subset \bdy X \times \bbR^\infty$, we can 
       
   516 topologize the set of submanifolds by ambient isotopy rel boundary.
   496 
   517 
   497 \subsection{The blob complex}
   518 \subsection{The blob complex}
   498 \subsubsection{Decompositions of manifolds}
   519 \subsubsection{Decompositions of manifolds}
   499 
   520 
   500 A \emph{ball decomposition} of a $k$-manifold $W$ is a 
   521 A \emph{ball decomposition} of a $k$-manifold $W$ is a 
   517 The poset $\cell(W)$ has objects the permissible decompositions of $W$, 
   538 The poset $\cell(W)$ has objects the permissible decompositions of $W$, 
   518 and a unique morphism from $x$ to $y$ if and only if $x$ is a refinement of $y$.
   539 and a unique morphism from $x$ to $y$ if and only if $x$ is a refinement of $y$.
   519 See Figure \ref{partofJfig} for an example.
   540 See Figure \ref{partofJfig} for an example.
   520 \end{defn}
   541 \end{defn}
   521 
   542 
   522 This poset in fact has more structure, since we can glue together permissible decompositions of $W_1$ and $W_2$ to obtain a permissible decomposition of $W_1 \sqcup W_2$. 
   543 This poset in fact has more structure, since we can glue together permissible decompositions of 
       
   544 $W_1$ and $W_2$ to obtain a permissible decomposition of $W_1 \sqcup W_2$. 
   523 
   545 
   524 An $n$-category $\cC$ determines 
   546 An $n$-category $\cC$ determines 
   525 a functor $\psi_{\cC;W}$ from $\cell(W)$ to the category of sets 
   547 a functor $\psi_{\cC;W}$ from $\cell(W)$ to the category of sets 
   526 (possibly with additional structure if $k=n$).
   548 (possibly with additional structure if $k=n$).
   527 Each $k$-ball $X$ of a decomposition $y$ of $W$ has its boundary decomposed into $k{-}1$-balls,
   549 Each $k$-ball $X$ of a decomposition $y$ of $W$ has its boundary decomposed into $k{-}1$-balls,
   534 \begin{equation*}
   556 \begin{equation*}
   535 %\label{eq:psi-C}
   557 %\label{eq:psi-C}
   536 	\psi_{\cC;W}(x) \subset \prod_a \cC(X_a)\spl
   558 	\psi_{\cC;W}(x) \subset \prod_a \cC(X_a)\spl
   537 \end{equation*}
   559 \end{equation*}
   538 where the restrictions to the various pieces of shared boundaries amongst the cells
   560 where the restrictions to the various pieces of shared boundaries amongst the cells
   539 $X_a$ all agree (this is a fibered product of all the labels of $k$-cells over the labels of $k-1$-cells). When $k=n$, the `subset' and `product' in the above formula should be interpreted in the appropriate enriching category.
   561 $X_a$ all agree (this is a fibered product of all the labels of $k$-cells over the labels of $k-1$-cells). 
       
   562 When $k=n$, the `subset' and `product' in the above formula should be 
       
   563 interpreted in the appropriate enriching category.
   540 If $x$ is a refinement of $y$, the map $\psi_{\cC;W}(x) \to \psi_{\cC;W}(y)$ is given by the composition maps of $\cC$.
   564 If $x$ is a refinement of $y$, the map $\psi_{\cC;W}(x) \to \psi_{\cC;W}(y)$ is given by the composition maps of $\cC$.
   541 \end{defn}
   565 \end{defn}
   542 
   566 
   543 We will use the term `field on $W$' to refer to a point of this functor,
   567 We will use the term `field on $W$' to refer to a point of this functor,
   544 that is, a permissible decomposition $x$ of $W$ together with an element of $\psi_{\cC;W}(x)$.
   568 that is, a permissible decomposition $x$ of $W$ together with an element of $\psi_{\cC;W}(x)$.
   545 
   569 
   546 
   570 
   547 \subsubsection{Colimits}
   571 \subsubsection{Colimits}
   548 Our definition of an $n$-category is essentially a collection of functors defined on $k$-balls (and homeomorphisms) for $k \leq n$ satisfying certain axioms. It is natural to consider extending such functors to the larger categories of all $k$-manifolds (again, with homeomorphisms). In fact, the axioms stated above explicitly require such an extension to $k$-spheres for $k<n$.
   572 Our definition of an $n$-category is essentially a collection of functors defined on $k$-balls (and homeomorphisms) 
   549 
   573 for $k \leq n$ satisfying certain axioms. 
   550 The natural construction achieving this is the colimit. For a linear $n$-category $\cC$, we denote the extension to all manifolds by $\cl{\cC}$. On a $k$-manifold $W$, with $k \leq n$, this is defined to be the colimit of the function $\psi_{\cC;W}$. Note that Axioms \ref{axiom:composition} and \ref{axiom:associativity} imply that $\cl{\cC}(X)  \iso \cC(X)$ when $X$ is a $k$-ball with $k<n$. Recall that given boundary conditions $c \in \cl{\cC}(\bdy X)$, for $X$ an $n$-ball, the set $\cC(X;c)$ is a vector space. Using this, we note that for $c \in \cl{\cC}(\bdy X)$, for $X$ an arbitrary $n$-manifold, the set $\cl{\cC}(X;c) = \bdy^{-1} (c)$ inherits the structure of a vector space. These are the usual TQFT skein module invariants on $n$-manifolds.
   574 It is natural to consider extending such functors to the 
       
   575 larger categories of all $k$-manifolds (again, with homeomorphisms). 
       
   576 In fact, the axioms stated above explicitly require such an extension to $k$-spheres for $k<n$.
       
   577 
       
   578 The natural construction achieving this is the colimit. For a linear $n$-category $\cC$, 
       
   579 we denote the extension to all manifolds by $\cl{\cC}$. On a $k$-manifold $W$, with $k \leq n$, 
       
   580 this is defined to be the colimit of the function $\psi_{\cC;W}$. 
       
   581 Note that Axioms \ref{axiom:composition} and \ref{axiom:associativity} 
       
   582 imply that $\cl{\cC}(X)  \iso \cC(X)$ when $X$ is a $k$-ball with $k<n$. 
       
   583 Recall that given boundary conditions $c \in \cl{\cC}(\bdy X)$, for $X$ an $n$-ball, 
       
   584 the set $\cC(X;c)$ is a vector space. Using this, we note that for $c \in \cl{\cC}(\bdy X)$, 
       
   585 for $X$ an arbitrary $n$-manifold, the set $\cl{\cC}(X;c) = \bdy^{-1} (c)$ inherits the structure of a vector space. 
       
   586 These are the usual TQFT skein module invariants on $n$-manifolds.
   551 
   587 
   552 We can now give a straightforward but rather abstract definition of the blob complex of an $n$-manifold $W$
   588 We can now give a straightforward but rather abstract definition of the blob complex of an $n$-manifold $W$
   553 with coefficients in the $n$-category $\cC$ as the homotopy colimit along $\cell(W)$
   589 with coefficients in the $n$-category $\cC$ as the homotopy colimit along $\cell(W)$
   554 of the functor $\psi_{\cC; W}$ described above. We write this as $\clh{\cC}(W)$.
   590 of the functor $\psi_{\cC; W}$ described above. We write this as $\clh{\cC}(W)$.
   555 
   591 
   556 An explicit realization of the homotopy colimit is provided by the simplices of the functor $\psi_{\cC; W}$. That is, $$\clh{\cC}(W) = \DirectSum_{\bar{x}} \psi_{\cC; W}(x_0)[m],$$ where $\bar{x} = x_0 \leq \cdots \leq x_m$ is a simplex in $\cell(W)$. The differential acts on $(\bar{x},a)$ (here $a \in \psi_{\cC; W}(x_0)$) as
   592 An explicit realization of the homotopy colimit is provided by the simplices of the 
       
   593 functor $\psi_{\cC; W}$. That is, $$\clh{\cC}(W) = \DirectSum_{\bar{x}} \psi_{\cC; W}(x_0)[m],$$ 
       
   594 where $\bar{x} = x_0 \leq \cdots \leq x_m$ is a simplex in $\cell(W)$. 
       
   595 The differential acts on $(\bar{x},a)$ (here $a \in \psi_{\cC; W}(x_0)$) as
   557 $$\bdy (\bar{x},a) = (\bar{x}, \bdy a) + (-1)^{\deg a} \left( (d_0 \bar{x}, g(a)) + \sum_{i=1}^m (-1)^i (d_i \bar{x}, a) \right)$$
   596 $$\bdy (\bar{x},a) = (\bar{x}, \bdy a) + (-1)^{\deg a} \left( (d_0 \bar{x}, g(a)) + \sum_{i=1}^m (-1)^i (d_i \bar{x}, a) \right)$$
   558 where $g$ is the gluing map from $x_0$ to $x_1$, and $d_i \bar{x}$ denotes the $i$-th face of the simplex $\bar{x}$.
   597 where $g$ is the gluing map from $x_0$ to $x_1$, and $d_i \bar{x}$ denotes the $i$-th face of the simplex $\bar{x}$.
   559 
   598 
   560 Alternatively, we can take advantage of the product structure on $\cell(W)$ to realize the homotopy colimit via the cone-product polyhedra in $\cell(W)$. A cone-product polyhedra is obtained from a point by successively taking the cone or taking the product with another cone-product polyhedron. Just as simplices correspond to linear directed graphs, cone-product polyheda correspond to directed trees: taking cone adds a new root before the existing root, and taking product identifies the roots of several trees. The `local homotopy colimit' is then defined according to the same formula as above, but with $\bar{x}$ a cone-product polyhedron in $\cell(W)$. The differential acts on $(\bar{x},a)$ both on $a$ and on $\bar{x}$, applying the appropriate gluing map to $a$ when required.
   599 Alternatively, we can take advantage of the product structure on $\cell(W)$ to realize the 
       
   600 homotopy colimit via the cone-product polyhedra in $\cell(W)$. 
       
   601 A cone-product polyhedra is obtained from a point by successively taking the cone or taking the 
       
   602 product with another cone-product polyhedron. Just as simplices correspond to linear directed graphs, 
       
   603 cone-product polyheda correspond to directed trees: taking cone adds a new root before the existing root, 
       
   604 and taking product identifies the roots of several trees. 
       
   605 The `local homotopy colimit' is then defined according to the same formula as above, but with $\bar{x}$ a cone-product polyhedron in $\cell(W)$. 
       
   606 The differential acts on $(\bar{x},a)$ both on $a$ and on $\bar{x}$, applying the appropriate gluing map to $a$ when required.
   561 A Eilenberg-Zilber subdivision argument shows this is the same as the usual realization.
   607 A Eilenberg-Zilber subdivision argument shows this is the same as the usual realization.
   562 
   608 
   563 %When $\cC$ is a topological $n$-category,
   609 %When $\cC$ is a topological $n$-category,
   564 %the flexibility available in the construction of a homotopy colimit allows
   610 %the flexibility available in the construction of a homotopy colimit allows
   565 %us to give a much more explicit description of the blob complex which we'll write as $\bc_*(W; \cC)$.
   611 %us to give a much more explicit description of the blob complex which we'll write as $\bc_*(W; \cC)$.
   574 it evaluates to a zero $n$-morphism of $C$.
   620 it evaluates to a zero $n$-morphism of $C$.
   575 The next few paragraphs describe this in more detail.
   621 The next few paragraphs describe this in more detail.
   576 
   622 
   577 We say a collection of balls $\{B_i\}$ in a manifold $W$ is \emph{permissible}
   623 We say a collection of balls $\{B_i\}$ in a manifold $W$ is \emph{permissible}
   578 if there exists a permissible decomposition $M_0\to\cdots\to M_m = W$ such that
   624 if there exists a permissible decomposition $M_0\to\cdots\to M_m = W$ such that
   579 each $B_i$ appears as a connected component of one of the $M_j$. Note that this allows the balls to be pairwise either disjoint or nested. Such a collection of balls cuts $W$ into pieces, the connected components of $W \setminus \bigcup \bdy B_i$. These pieces need not be manifolds, but they do automatically have permissible decompositions.
   625 each $B_i$ appears as a connected component of one of the $M_j$. 
       
   626 Note that this allows the balls to be pairwise either disjoint or nested. 
       
   627 Such a collection of balls cuts $W$ into pieces, the connected components of $W \setminus \bigcup \bdy B_i$. 
       
   628 These pieces need not be manifolds, but they do automatically have permissible decompositions.
   580 
   629 
   581 The $k$-blob group $\bc_k(W; \cC)$ is generated by the $k$-blob diagrams. A $k$-blob diagram consists of
   630 The $k$-blob group $\bc_k(W; \cC)$ is generated by the $k$-blob diagrams. A $k$-blob diagram consists of
   582 \begin{itemize}
   631 \begin{itemize}
   583 \item a permissible collection of $k$ embedded balls, and
   632 \item a permissible collection of $k$ embedded balls, and
   584 \item for each resulting piece of $W$, a field,
   633 \item for each resulting piece of $W$, a field,
   585 \end{itemize}
   634 \end{itemize}
   586 such that for any innermost blob $B$, the field on $B$ goes to zero under the gluing map from $\cC$. We call such a field a `null field on $B$'.
   635 such that for any innermost blob $B$, the field on $B$ goes to zero under the gluing map from $\cC$. 
       
   636 We call such a field a `null field on $B$'.
   587 
   637 
   588 The differential acts on a $k$-blob diagram by summing over ways to forget one of the $k$ blobs, with alternating signs.
   638 The differential acts on a $k$-blob diagram by summing over ways to forget one of the $k$ blobs, with alternating signs.
   589 
   639 
   590 We now spell this out for some small values of $k$. For $k=0$, the $0$-blob group is simply fields on $W$. For $k=1$, a generator consists of a field on $W$ and a ball, such that the restriction of the field to that ball is a null field. The differential simply forgets the ball. Thus we see that $H_0$ of the blob complex is the quotient of fields by fields which are null on some ball.
   640 We now spell this out for some small values of $k$. For $k=0$, the $0$-blob group is simply fields on $W$. 
   591 
   641 For $k=1$, a generator consists of a field on $W$ and a ball, such that the restriction of the field to that ball is a null field. 
   592 For $k=2$, we have a two types of generators; they each consists of a field $f$ on $W$, and two balls $B_1$ and $B_2$. In the first case, the balls are disjoint, and $f$ restricted to either of the $B_i$ is a null field. In the second case, the balls are properly nested, say $B_1 \subset B_2$, and $f$ restricted to $B_1$ is null. Note that this implies that $f$ restricted to $B_2$ is also null, by the associativity of the gluing operation. This ensures that the differential is well-defined.
   642 The differential simply forgets the ball. 
       
   643 Thus we see that $H_0$ of the blob complex is the quotient of fields by fields which are null on some ball.
       
   644 
       
   645 For $k=2$, we have a two types of generators; they each consists of a field $f$ on $W$, and two balls $B_1$ and $B_2$. 
       
   646 In the first case, the balls are disjoint, and $f$ restricted to either of the $B_i$ is a null field. 
       
   647 In the second case, the balls are properly nested, say $B_1 \subset B_2$, and $f$ restricted to $B_1$ is null. 
       
   648 Note that this implies that $f$ restricted to $B_2$ is also null, by the associativity of the gluing operation. 
       
   649 This ensures that the differential is well-defined.
   593 
   650 
   594 \section{Properties of the blob complex}
   651 \section{Properties of the blob complex}
   595 \subsection{Formal properties}
   652 \subsection{Formal properties}
   596 \label{sec:properties}
   653 \label{sec:properties}
   597 The blob complex enjoys the following list of formal properties. The first three are immediate from the definitions.
   654 The blob complex enjoys the following list of formal properties. The first three are immediate from the definitions.
   667 by $\cC$.
   724 by $\cC$.
   668 \begin{equation*}
   725 \begin{equation*}
   669 H_0(\bc_*(X;\cC)) \iso \cl{\cC}(X)
   726 H_0(\bc_*(X;\cC)) \iso \cl{\cC}(X)
   670 \end{equation*}
   727 \end{equation*}
   671 \end{thm}
   728 \end{thm}
   672 This follows from the fact that the $0$-th homology of a homotopy colimit is the usual colimit, or directly from the explicit description of the blob complex.
   729 This follows from the fact that the $0$-th homology of a homotopy colimit is the usual colimit, 
       
   730 or directly from the explicit description of the blob complex.
   673 
   731 
   674 \begin{thm}[Hochschild homology when $X=S^1$]
   732 \begin{thm}[Hochschild homology when $X=S^1$]
   675 \label{thm:hochschild}
   733 \label{thm:hochschild}
   676 The blob complex for a $1$-category $\cC$ on the circle is
   734 The blob complex for a $1$-category $\cC$ on the circle is
   677 quasi-isomorphic to the Hochschild complex.
   735 quasi-isomorphic to the Hochschild complex.
   678 \begin{equation*}
   736 \begin{equation*}
   679 \xymatrix{\bc_*(S^1;\cC) \ar[r]^(0.47){\iso}_(0.47){\text{qi}} & \HC_*(\cC).}
   737 \xymatrix{\bc_*(S^1;\cC) \ar[r]^(0.47){\iso}_(0.47){\text{qi}} & \HC_*(\cC).}
   680 \end{equation*}
   738 \end{equation*}
   681 \end{thm}
   739 \end{thm}
   682 This theorem is established by extending the statement to bimodules as well as categories, then verifying that the universal properties of Hochschild homology also hold for $\bc_*(S^1; -)$.
   740 This theorem is established by extending the statement to bimodules as well as categories, 
       
   741 then verifying that the universal properties of Hochschild homology also hold for $\bc_*(S^1; -)$.
   683 
   742 
   684 \begin{thm}[Mapping spaces]
   743 \begin{thm}[Mapping spaces]
   685 \label{thm:map-recon}
   744 \label{thm:map-recon}
   686 Let $\pi^\infty_{\le n}(T)$ denote the $A_\infty$ $n$-category based on maps 
   745 Let $\pi^\infty_{\le n}(T)$ denote the $A_\infty$ $n$-category based on maps 
   687 $B^n \to T$.
   746 $B^n \to T$.
   689 Then 
   748 Then 
   690 $$\bc_*(X; \pi^\infty_{\le n}(T)) \simeq \CM{X}{T}.$$
   749 $$\bc_*(X; \pi^\infty_{\le n}(T)) \simeq \CM{X}{T}.$$
   691 \end{thm}
   750 \end{thm}
   692 
   751 
   693 This says that we can recover (up to homotopy) the space of maps to $T$ via blob homology from local data. 
   752 This says that we can recover (up to homotopy) the space of maps to $T$ via blob homology from local data. 
   694 Note that there is no restriction on the connectivity of $T$ as there is for the corresponding result in topological chiral homology \cite[Theorem 3.8.6]{0911.0018}. The result was proved in \cite[\S 7.3]{1009.5025}.
   753 Note that there is no restriction on the connectivity of $T$ as there is for 
       
   754 the corresponding result in topological chiral homology \cite[Theorem 3.8.6]{0911.0018}. 
       
   755 The result was proved in \cite[\S 7.3]{1009.5025}.
   695 
   756 
   696 \subsection{Structure of the blob complex}
   757 \subsection{Structure of the blob complex}
   697 \label{sec:structure}
   758 \label{sec:structure}
   698 
   759 
   699 In the following $\CH{X} = C_*(\Homeo(X))$ is the singular chain complex of the space of homeomorphisms of $X$, fixed on $\bdy X$.
   760 In the following $\CH{X} = C_*(\Homeo(X))$ is the singular chain complex of the space 
       
   761 of homeomorphisms of $X$, fixed on $\bdy X$.
   700 
   762 
   701 \begin{thm}
   763 \begin{thm}
   702 \label{thm:CH}\label{thm:evaluation}
   764 \label{thm:CH}\label{thm:evaluation}
   703 There is a chain map
   765 There is a chain map
   704 \begin{equation*}
   766 \begin{equation*}
   734 We introduce yet another homotopy equivalent version of
   796 We introduce yet another homotopy equivalent version of
   735 the blob complex, $\cB\cT_*(X)$.
   797 the blob complex, $\cB\cT_*(X)$.
   736 Blob diagrams have a natural topology, which is ignored by $\bc_*(X)$.
   798 Blob diagrams have a natural topology, which is ignored by $\bc_*(X)$.
   737 In $\cB\cT_*(X)$ we take this topology into account, treating the blob diagrams as something
   799 In $\cB\cT_*(X)$ we take this topology into account, treating the blob diagrams as something
   738 analogous to a simplicial space (but with cone-product polyhedra replacing simplices).
   800 analogous to a simplicial space (but with cone-product polyhedra replacing simplices).
   739 More specifically, a generator of $\cB\cT_k(X)$ is an $i$-parameter family of $j$-blob diagrams, with $i+j=k$. An essential step in the proof of this equivalence is a result to the effect that a $k$-parameter family of homeomorphism can be localized to at most $k$ small sets.
   801 More specifically, a generator of $\cB\cT_k(X)$ is an $i$-parameter family of $j$-blob diagrams, with $i+j=k$. 
       
   802 An essential step in the proof of this equivalence is a result to the effect that a $k$-parameter 
       
   803 family of homeomorphism can be localized to at most $k$ small sets.
   740 
   804 
   741 With this alternate version in hand, it is straightforward to prove the theorem.
   805 With this alternate version in hand, it is straightforward to prove the theorem.
   742 The evaluation map $\Homeo(X)\times BD_j(X)\to BD_j(X)$
   806 The evaluation map $\Homeo(X)\times BD_j(X)\to BD_j(X)$
   743 induces a chain map $\CH{X}\tensor C_*(BD_j(X))\to C_*(BD_j(X))$
   807 induces a chain map $\CH{X}\tensor C_*(BD_j(X))\to C_*(BD_j(X))$
   744 and hence a map $e_X: \CH{X} \tensor \cB\cT_*(X) \to \cB\cT_*(X)$.
   808 and hence a map $e_X: \CH{X} \tensor \cB\cT_*(X) \to \cB\cT_*(X)$.
   767 
   831 
   768 \begin{thm}[Gluing formula]
   832 \begin{thm}[Gluing formula]
   769 \label{thm:gluing}
   833 \label{thm:gluing}
   770 \mbox{}% <-- gets the indenting right
   834 \mbox{}% <-- gets the indenting right
   771 \begin{itemize}
   835 \begin{itemize}
   772 \item For any $n$-manifold $X$, with $Y$ a codimension $0$-submanifold of its boundary, the blob complex of $X$ is naturally an
   836 \item For any $n$-manifold $X$, with $Y$ a codimension $0$-submanifold of its boundary, 
       
   837 the blob complex of $X$ is naturally an
   773 $A_\infty$ module for $\bc_*(Y)$.
   838 $A_\infty$ module for $\bc_*(Y)$.
   774 
   839 
   775 \item The blob complex of a glued manifold $X\bigcup_Y \selfarrow$ is the $A_\infty$ self-tensor product of
   840 \item The blob complex of a glued manifold $X\bigcup_Y \selfarrow$ is the $A_\infty$ self-tensor product of
   776 $\bc_*(X)$ as an $\bc_*(Y)$-bimodule:
   841 $\bc_*(X)$ as an $\bc_*(Y)$-bimodule:
   777 \begin{equation*}
   842 \begin{equation*}
   789 and this map can be extended to a chain map on all of $T_*$ by sending the higher simplices to zero.
   854 and this map can be extended to a chain map on all of $T_*$ by sending the higher simplices to zero.
   790 Constructing a homotopy inverse to this natural map invloves making various choices, but one can show that the
   855 Constructing a homotopy inverse to this natural map invloves making various choices, but one can show that the
   791 choices form contractible subcomplexes and apply the acyclic models theorem.
   856 choices form contractible subcomplexes and apply the acyclic models theorem.
   792 \end{proof}
   857 \end{proof}
   793 
   858 
   794 We next describe the blob complex for product manifolds, in terms of the $A_\infty$ blob complex of the $A_\infty$ $n$-categories constructed as above.
   859 We next describe the blob complex for product manifolds, in terms of the $A_\infty$ 
       
   860 blob complex of the $A_\infty$ $n$-categories constructed as above.
   795 
   861 
   796 \begin{thm}[Product formula]
   862 \begin{thm}[Product formula]
   797 \label{thm:product}
   863 \label{thm:product}
   798 Let $W$ be a $k$-manifold and $Y$ be an $n-k$ manifold.
   864 Let $W$ be a $k$-manifold and $Y$ be an $n-k$ manifold.
   799 Let $\cC$ be an $n$-category.
   865 Let $\cC$ be an $n$-category.