The Center of the Nilcoxeter and 0-Hecke Algebras -- Joelle Brichard
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We compute the dimensions of the center of the 0-Hecke algebra H_n and of the Nilcoxeter algebra NC_ n using a calculus of diagrams on the Mobius band. In the case of the Nilcoxeter algebra, this calculus is shown to produce a basis for Z(NC_n). We conjecture that a basis for Z(H_n) can also be obtained in this way.
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(Basic algebra helps. Aimed to be accessible.)