Removing Isolated Zeroes by Homotopy

Suppose that the inverse image of the zero vector by a continuous map $f:{\mathbb R}^n\to{\mathbb R}^q$ has an isolated point $P$. There is a local obstruction to removing this isolated zero by a small perturbation, generalizing the notion of index for vector fields, the $q=n$ case. The existence of a continuous map $g$ which approximates $f$ but is nonvanishing near $P$ is equivalent to a topological property we call "locally inessential," and for dimensions $n$, $q$ where $\pi_{n-1}(S^{q-1})$ is trivial, every isolated zero is locally inessential. We consider the problem of constructing such an approximation $g$, and show that there exists a continuous homotopy from $f$ to $g$ through locally nonvanishing maps. If $f$ is a semialgebraic map, then there exists such a homotopy which is also semialgebraic. For $q=2$ and $f$ real analytic with a locally inessential isolated zero, there exists a H\"older continuous homotopy $F(x,t)$ which, for $(x,t)\ne(P,0)$, is real analytic and nonvanishing. The existence of a smooth homotopy, given a smooth map $f$, is stated as an open question.Comment: to appear in Topological Methods in Nonlinear Analysi

Mathematical Models in Schema Theory

In this paper, a mathematical schema theory is developed. This theory has three roots: brain theory schemas, grid automata, and block-shemas. In Section 2 of this paper, elements of the theory of grid automata necessary for the mathematical schema theory are presented. In Section 3, elements of brain theory necessary for the mathematical schema theory are presented. In Section 4, other types of schemas are considered. In Section 5, the mathematical schema theory is developed. The achieved level of schema representation allows one to model by mathematical tools virtually any type of schemas considered before, including schemas in neurophisiology, psychology, computer science, Internet technology, databases, logic, and mathematics