Topology of two-connected graphs and homology of spaces of knots

We propose a new method of computing cohomology groups of spaces of knots in $\R^n$, $n \ge 3$, based on the topology of configuration spaces and two-connected graphs, and calculate all such classes of order $\le 3.$ As a byproduct we define the higher indices, which invariants of knots in $\R^3$ define at arbitrary singular knots. More generally, for any finite-order cohomology class of the space of knots we define its principal symbol, which lies in a cohomology group of a certain finite-dimensional configuration space and characterizes our class modulo the classes of smaller filtration

Homology of spaces of homogeneous polynomials in R2R^2 without multiple zeros

For any natural $d \ge k \ge 2$ we calculate the cohomology groups of the space of homogeneous polynomials $R^2 \to R$ of degree $d$, which do not vanish with multiplicity $\ge k$ on real lines. For $k=2$ this problem provides the simplest example of the situation, when the "finite degree" invariants of nonsingular objects are not a complete system of invariants

Letter Written by Victor A. Speert to Edith Speert Dated November 28, 1944

[Transcription begins] 28 November 1944 Somewheres in Germany My beloved darling, I’m a very sad boy today for I received no packages and no letters. Nevertheless I remain undaunted and ready to go forth with my letter writing. Nothing new or eventful happened today aside from our usual hum-drum existence [sic]. We’ve still got our elegant set-up and good food—yessiree, we’re sitting on the top of the world. Boy, we’re sure getting sufficient PX supplies these days. Today we made another distribution of cigarettes, chocolate, soap, etc. That’s the one advantage of being in combat, you get your share of rations. The weather is starting to get a bit nasty outdoors. Today it showered frequently and it’s beginning to get colder. As I am writing this letter Shelton is frying bacon over one of our stoves. You know, the bacon comes in cans and is already sliced. Makes it so handy to get that evening snack. Hm! It smells good! Sweetheart, I still can smell those good Sunday breakfasts that you used to make. When you used to stuff food into me as though you were fattening a turkey. Come to think of it, it’s been quite a period that [sic] I’ve fried eggs—I just haven’t bothered to ask the Dutch civilian people for eggs. But, I do get to eat their butter, which is delicious, or to quote you, “out of this world.” We took some snapshots of “our pin-up board” last night. Our pinup board consists of pictures of nudes which Shelton cut out of some of the German art magazines found around here. By the way, the so-called “Kulten Art” is based wholly on the portrayal of nudes (male & female). In addition he has pictures of girls (naturally) from the Yank Magazine (no doubt you’ve seen many of them). Among some of the junk we’ve collected so far is an old muzzle loaded gun used in the 1700’s [sic]—perhaps it may even have antique value. Honey, as you can see I don’t have a heck of a lot to say except that I miss you madly, love you completely and can’t wait until I have you in my arms again. Good night, dear, your lover, Vic [Transcription ends