On abelian quantum invariants of links in 3-manifolds (Q5947417)

``From a finite abelian group \(G\), a quadratic form on \(G\) and an element \(c=(c_1, \ldots,c_n)\) in \(G^n\), we define a topological invariant \(\tau\) of a pair \((M,L)\) where \(M^3\) is a closed oriented 3-manifold and \(L\) an oriented, framed \(n\)-component link in \(M\). The main result consists in an explicit formula for this invariant, based on a reciprocity formula for Gauss sums, which features a special linking pairing. This pairing depends on both the quadratic form \(q\) and the linking pairing of \(M\). A necessary and sufficient condition for the invariant to vanish is described in terms of a characteristic class for this pairing. We also discuss torsion \(\text{ spin}^c\)-structures and related structures which appear in this context.'' This generalizes results in a previous paper of the author [Trans. Am. Math. Soc. 351, No. 5, 1895-1918 (1999; Zbl 0938.57012)].