Applied Materials, Inc. reported results for its first quarter ended Jan. 31, 2021, as its semiconductor business continues to drive growth.   The company’s numbers continue to spark optimism. Applied generated revenue of $5.16 billion. On a GAAP basis, the company recorded a gross margin of 45.5%, operating income of $1.28 billion or 24.9% of net sales, and earnings per share (EPS) of $1.22.   As a result, the company generated $1.42 billion in cash from operations and paid dividends of...