On the computation of a-invariants (Q1210035)

In this paper there are computed the \(a\)-invariants for graded algebras with straightening laws (ASL) on upper semi-modular lattices and for Stanley-Reisner rings of shellable weighted simplicial complexes. There are given several formulas and estimates for the \(a\)-invariant of an ASL. The ASL involved are defined over corresponding semi-modular lattices. Various results of \textit{H.-G. Gräbe} [``Streckungsringe'' (Dissertation B, 1988); see also Beitr. Algebra Geom. 23, 85-100 (1986; Zbl 0646.13010)] and \textit{Y. Yoshino} [Nagoya Math. J. 81, 105-112 (1981; Zbl 0458.13004)] are refined. The computations of \(a\)-invariants for weighted shellable simplicial complexes are used for confirming the estimates about ASL. In the case of homogeneous \(k\)-algebra from the study of a Hilbert series there is obtained the McMullen-walkup formula. There are described some applications to determinantal and Pfaffian ideals. In the paper there are used two descriptions of the \(a\)-invariant, one using the graded canonical module \(\omega_ R\), the other one the Hilbert series \(H_ R(t)\). We mention the alternative approach, via Gröbner bases, of some results of this paper [the second author and \textit{Ngo Viet Trung}, Adv. Math. 96, No. 1, 1-37 (1992; Zbl 0778.13022)].