Some continuous index theorems (Q2266430)

Starting with symbol maps from ''odd'' spheres \(S^{2n-1}\) into a \(W^*\)- algebra factor \({\mathcal M}\) of type \(II_ 1\) we define ''continuous'' Toeplitz operators. It is proven that such an operator is Fredholm (relative to \({\mathcal M}\otimes L(H)\)- in the sense of Breuer) iff the symbol map takes values in the group G\({\mathcal M}\) of regular elements of \({\mathcal M}\). The real-valued index obtained in this way is determined by the stable homotopy class of the symbol map, and can be calculated by an integral formula generalizing the classical winding number. Moreover, we consider symbol maps from products of odd spheres, and give criteria of Fredholmness. An index theorem is obtained in this case, too. Our results extend work of \textit{U. Venugopalkrishna} [J. Funct. Anal. 9, 349-373 (1972; Zbl 0241.47023)] and \textit{L. A. Coburn, R. G. Douglas} and \textit{I. M. Singer} [J. Diff. Geom. 6, 587-593 (1972; Zbl 0252.47026)].