Technology, Engineering & Agriculture Books

Book SynopsisThis book gathers and presents data on nanotechnology. Major obstacles, drawbacks and challenges were analysed, and optimum solutions were provided / recommended for each individual nanomaterial in Chapter One, which also covers some technical analysis and sustainable uses of these materials in different industries. Chapter Two summarises recent advances in the fabrication, characterisation, properties, and applications of CB nanoparticles in various industries. The (simultaneous) twin polymerisation using diverse main-group and transition metal compounds as twin monomers, and additives like metal carboxylates or tin alkoxides to produce metal and metal oxide nanoparticle- as well as tin alloy-decorated porous carbon and silica hybrid materials is reported in Chapter Three. Several nanocomposites and products available in the market were studied in detail in Chapter Four to understand the Eol concepts of these materials and structures used for numerous product developments. Chapter Five summarises recent advances in the fabrication of nanoparticles, especially carbon nanoparticles (CNPs) and their inherent failure mechanism under various external loading conditions. Chapter Six utilises thermal performance-illumination experiment with intelligent dimensional analysis to study the green-energy device characteristics in high power heating sources, in order to reach the green recycling of energy efficiency and depict how to prepare the process of thermo-electric nanofluid and fill it into pipe to form a TEP device. Chapter Seven presents a summary of the fabrication of soft nanostructure by molecular self-assembly of synthetic peptides. The structural-parametric model, the solution of the wave equation of the electroelastic actuator and the calculation their transfer functions are presented in Chapter Eight.

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Book SynopsisBiological control is a plant protection strategy widely-used in horticultural cropping systems to regulate insect and mite pest populations on greenhouse-grown ornamentals and vegetables. The use of natural enemies in controlling the SWD has been researched in Chapter One. Chapter Two aims to recover the history and present the current status of the biological control of fruit flies of the genus Anastrepha and to show perspectives of the use of such method. Chapter Three discusses the advantages and issues affiliated with using natural enemies in conjunction with pesticides and provides insights on the practicality of using both plant protection strategies simultaneously. Chapter Four describes screening methods for candidate biocontrol agents, application methods and challenges associated with biological control of fungal pathogens by antagonistic microorganisms.

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Book SynopsisClassical fracture mechanics that emerged during the 1920s has gained popularity via LEFM from the 1940s to the 1960s. The principles of classical fracture mechanics evolved from experimental observation of the behaviour of glass that contains pre-existing cracks and is largely supported by physical reasoning. Chapter One presents a robust analysis of problems encountered in the field of pipeline networks and boiler components as a result of structural imperfection. Chapter Two deals with an analytical model of cracking, which is induced by thermal stresses in a porous multi-particle-matrix system. This system consists of spherical pores and isotropic spherical particles, which are both periodically distributed in an isotropic infinite matrix. Chapter Three reports on an analytical model of cracking in a multi-particle matrix system with isotropic whiskers, which are periodically distributed in an isotropic infinite matrix.

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Book SynopsisDispersion dynamics are developed from the stable wave packet in wave mechanics. They are used first in a physical treatment of creation and annihilation, and then applied to measurements in high temperature superconductivity. The dynamics require that the negative energy solution to relativity equations implies negative rest mass in the antiparticle. Diracs positive mass for his first order equation is inconsistent with dispersion dynamics. The processing of the ceramic cuprates links the superconductivity not to the isotope effect, as in low temperature superconductors, but to chemical holes in the planar HiTc ceramics. The Hall coefficient is negative in the former case, but positive in the latter -- even though the Lorentz force can act on neither voids nor immobile ionic nuclei. Interpretation of the coefficient is an old anomaly. In fact, whether in metals, in p-type semiconductors or in HiTc ceramics, the carriers are all negatively charged. Dispersion dynamics show that the positive coefficient is a consequence of negative second derivatives in the dispersion of conduction bands in semiconductors, in certain metals and in high temperature superconductors.Existing data from HiTc compounds, especially data from processing, are reinterpreted to show how chemical and physical holes are formed. The holes that are evident in the Hall effect at normal temperatures are readily available to bond with electron pairs at lower temperatures for superconductivity. Wave functions in dispersion dynamics show how the conduction is non-resistive. The book contrasts the two types of superconductivity while uniting the mechanism in them for non-resistive behaviour.

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Book SynopsisPineapple (Ananas comosus (L.) Merril) is the major representative fruit of bromelains, cultivated in tropical and subtropical areas in developing countries. The knowledge of plant taxonomy, enzymes, antioxidants, or microbiology is beneficial to human health. Likewise, various industrial applications of pineapple-based products have led both developing and developed countries to grow dependent on the tropical fruit. The targeted audience of this book includes researchers and professional horticulturists interested in increasing the comprehension of not just the nutritional values of pineapple, but also about the technology employed to preserve the freshness of this fruit. The organization of the chapters and sections is also straightforward; Chapter One presents what a pineapple (Ananas comosus (L.) Merril) is, its taxonomy, distribution, origin, and morphology. Concluding the first part, Chapters Two and Three show the nutritional and medical values, stability and the potential therapeutic aspects of pineapples. In the second part of the book, the readers should find the relevant aspects of industrial preservation in Chapters Four, Five, Six and Seven, which talk about the harmful effects of UV and gamma radiation to freshness. Chapters Eight and Nine9 discuss postharvest conservation.

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Book SynopsisIn this compilation, the authors discuss nanopowders, or powders with a particle size of less than 100 nanometers. Several nanopowder types have effectively been synthesized with potential applications as follows: Fe3O4 and BaFe6O19 (as magnetic materials, microwave absorbent, magnetic fluid and gel), SiO2 (as fillers to enhance mechanical strength), and CaCO3 (as coating for corrosive protection, food additives, cosmetics and drugs). This method allows for the production of high purity nanopowders with a moderately narrow crystal size distribution and unique morphology. Next, the innovative approaches to address the lightning strikes and EMI shielding effects on composite aircraft are examined, noting that composite aircraft protection against lightning is more complex due to the anisotropic nature of composite structure and high resistance of carbon in epoxy resins. The authors go on to present results of studies of composite electrochemical coatings modified by nano- and microparticles of various natures are presented, considering the operational properties and structural features of main types of composite coatings. Later, recent advances in synthesising highly ordered Titana nanotubes are explored, with regard to selection of suitable titanium based substrate and electrolyte apart from process parameters. These parameters include temperature, pH, voltage and applications in the areas of global warming , solar energy, photocatalytic applications, biomedical starting from implants to drug-eluding stents, sensors, and hydrogen storage. A chapter is presented on practical ways for fabricating cost-effective equipment for deposition of nanofilms, covering the most versatile techniques of sol-gel deposition and sputter-coating. The authors maintain that by applying individual ingenuity to the described frugal techniques, the reader should be able to form nanofilms of various materials with properties tailored to suit the intended application. Afterwards, the authors describe the soft, hard templated, and hierarchically ordered strategies concerning nanotechnology applied to fabricate porous carbon materials. Additionally, relevant advantages and disadvantages aim to provide the vital information about the growing field for future energy to minimize the potential environmental risks. Moving on, the authors introduce new research and related literature concerning the synthesis of cobalt diselenide (CoSe2) nanoneedle arrays for efficient hydrogen evolution electrolysis. Future aspects for improving the performance of transition metal dichalcogenide-based electrocatalytic electrodes are also examined. Lastly, a study on formation of nanoporous silicon and germanium layers with silver nanoparticles by low-energy high-dose ion implantation is presented. The authors suggest ion implantation for the formation of naoporous semiconductor thin layers, which could be easily combined with the crystalline matrix for various applications.

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Book SynopsisAdvances in Engineering Research. Volume 20 begins by analyzing the extraction and separation protocols documented for the saponins from family caryophyllaceae during the period 1967-2014. Analyses of applied extraction and separation protocols of saponins were carried out to determine the most practiced protocols in the study period and to identify eventual trends between protocols, plant material and structural traits of saponins. Next, the authors discuss a 2-D analytical modeling and simulation of Permanent Magnet Induction Generator which is used widely in renewable energy sources such as wind turbines, microhydro plants, and geothermal plants. The aim of the integrated spatial technology is discussed, and identified by the authors as, to combine remote sensing, geographical information systems and life cycle assessment, to ascertain the component or system within the agricultural production cycle, generating the most greenhouse gases. A subsequent chapter deals with modeling of a slip-ring induction motor, and includes two appendixes. The first appendix presents the inversing algorithm of the matrix which consists of four submatrices, and the second presents the algorithm of the inductance inverted matrix determination. The book goes on to discuss the entropy concept as it is applied to uncertainty analysis of systems whose services can be presented by random events. Next, the authors report on a thermo-fluid-dynamic analysis of the internal and external flowfield for a general aviation airplane nacelle, equipped with a small pusher turbine engine, with the purpose of determining the thermal field on the nacelle surface. This compilation attempts to identify the possible performance bottlenecks in the integration solution which deals with the UNIJUÍ University process of re-enrollment, so that they can be minimized before the solution implementation. Lastly, integration approaches and integration platforms available in the Cloud are reviewed, demonstrating the use of an integration platform by means of a case of study for a research outcomes and technological information management integration problem.

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Book SynopsisIn this compilation, the authors develop a modeling approach and formulate global equations. The data is based on the thermos-economic theory that uses the thermodynamic process of cost formation and that considers the direct and indirect effects of all components of every system in each cited field. The relations between the incomes and impacts of the use of energy in all sectors with different systems are discussed, and characteristic equations representing each physical behavior of every plant in the system and its impact will be formulated. The Nigeria energy situation is reviewed in order to identify potential sites of SHPs and how small hydropower fits in as the solution to the country sustainable energy challenge. Issues of small hydropower resource availability, technology, environment and climate change have been also discussed. Following this, an overview of industrial systems of oxycombustion integrated in microalgal photobioreactors is provided. The authors discuss issues related to carbon capture technologies, the science and technology of the oxycombustion, the biological oxygen generation, the photobioreactors and the process integration, summarizing a range of useful strategies directed to the industrial sustainable development. The development process for harvesting marine energy for local small-scale usage is described; marine energy has received much attention globally and is being developed as a viable source of renewable energy. While high tidal and fast water current would yield large energy generation, not all locations possess these advantages. With different limitations for specific site locations, this study suggests that micro-scale marine turbine may be suitable for areas with low tidal velocity. Continuing, a review is provided which describes recent approaches adopted to engineer nanostructured electrocatalytic materials for efficient mass transport of reactants and products, high conductivity and activity for electrochemical CO2 reduction into value-added chemicals or intermediates. The current state of integration of Big Data, Data Mining and Artificial Intelligence techniques in advanced Energy Systems Optimization is also examined. A comprehensive review of relevant Artificial Intelligence techniques applicable to the optimization of DER is described, in addition to a review of relevant software needed to model advanced DERs.

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Book SynopsisDue to the limitation of the electrical OFDM signal and electrical Fast Fourier Transform (FFT), all-optical OFDMs have recently received much attention. Accordingly, this research study was conducted to investigate the effect of phase noise in the performance of an all-optical OFDM transmission system with 4-point FFT single mode fiber (SMF) links by considering the effects of fiber length, input laser power and a number of channels. In all optical systems, the transmitter side consists of a comb power generator, wavelength selected switch and an optical QAM generator. A comb power generator generates channels with a frequency separation of ∆f=25 GHz. Subsequently, a Wavelength Selected Switch (WSS) was used to split subcarriers and then the subcarriers were modulated individually with Optical QAM modulators. As the results show, a higher number of channels led more phase noise in terms of XPM and FWM nonlinearities, and signal power was the main factor in nonlinear fiber optics. As a consequence, there is more phase noise distortion at a higher signal power for a higher number of channels rather than the lower number of channels.

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Book SynopsisIn this compilation, the authors discuss a synergistic enhancement of electron and thermal conductivities of epoxy-based composites (CMs) with different hybrid fillers. Their investigation shows an increase of the thermal conductivity as compared to CMs with a single carbon filler. This increase is more pronounced for GNPs/BN fillers. However, the role of an interface thermal resistance is still dominant in the determination of the thermal conductivity of investigated epoxy composites. A subsequent chapter aims to present an overview of noteworthy functionalised materials that have been produced in recent years, in order to act as a guide for the future design of more efficient adsorbent materials. The authors also provide a review which could pave the way for the potential use of nanotechnology in the treatment of skin diseases. The potential implication of the nanotechnology-based cosmeceuticals could be significant and is warranted to be evaluated in long-term in vivo and clinical studies. Next, a transparent and flexible crystalline polymer nanohybrid was fabricated, containing well-dispersed magnetic nanoparticles with organic chain-modified surfaces. The partially fluorinated copolymer matrix used is composed of switchboard-type lamellae. These become transparent owing to the creation of high-density amorphous regions on drawing the corresponding film at just below the polymer melting point. Lastly, the book investigates double-diffusive convection in unsteady nanofluid flow over a moving surface in a porous medium in the presence of a chemical reaction and subject to thermal radiation. This study includes the effects of Brownian motion and thermophoresis.

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Book SynopsisIn this compilation, the authors present the results of the systematic study of the spatial distribution of trace metals in surface soil over the Bitola Region, Republic of Macedonia, known for its coal mine and thermoelectrical power plant activities. 149 soil samples were collected including top-soil and bottom-soil samples. Following this, the area in the vicinity of leadzinc mine Toranica near the Kriva Palanka town in Eastern Macedonia was examined for the lithogenic and anthropogenic distribution of 17 elements, and alluvial soil samples and authomorphic soil samples were collected from the Kriva Reka River Basin. The authors aim to contribute to our understanding of the behaviour of nanoparticles in the soil, their uptake and distribution within plants, impact of soil microbial communities, and their interactions with other pollutants. Later, an analysis of developed and applied measures and methods for rehabilitation of radioactively contaminated soils of Belarus (as a result of Chernobyl accident) is presented. The authors also go on to summarize a case study on the presence of natural U-isotopes in two soil profiles developed over sandstones from the Paraná sedimentary basin in São Paulo State, Brazil, in order to evaluate the timescale of the weathering processes taking place there. The book suggests synergistic biological mechanisms as a less expensive, environment-friendly method for remediation of pesticide polluted soils. The concluding chapter discusses biochar, a form of char and charcoal made from the partial combustion of organic materials. Its properties include high water-holding capacity, large surface area, cation exchange capacity, and impact, especially on microbial communities.

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Book SynopsisIn this compilation, the authors propose chemometrics as an important contribution towards authentication, typification and traceability of grapes and wines in combination with various analytical chemistry methods, maintaining that the wine industry has a need for rapid techniques for evaluation. Afterwards, the scientific research detailing determination and quantification of individual thiol compounds primarily in Sauvignon Blanc wine is presented. The results suggest the strong influence of geographical origin as well as vinification method. Later, the authors review the evolution of the phenolic compounds during the red wine ageing process and the impact of the major phenolic classes on red wine sensory characteristics. The formation of polymeric pigments by the covalent reaction of anthocyanins and proanthocyanidins explain some of the detected sensory changes in colour, taste, and mouthfeel attributes of red wines. A study is included in which twelve yeasts isolated from local grape berries were characterized for morphological, biochemical and physiological parameters. A periodic enumeration from the grape berries during initial veraison period revealed an increase in microbial count for both yeast and malolactic bacteria. This book also reviews the different modern winemaking technologies used for red wine production (particularly during fermentative maceration process) and their impact on phenolic composition of red wines, especially on anthocyanin and proanthocyanidin content. An analysis of Saccharomyces cerevisiae is included, determining that it is the most important yeast species involved in wine fermentations, as it may preserve the typical quality and flavor of regional wines. Afterwards, O. oeni is introduced as a candidate for malolactic fermentation starter culture. Thus, the authors suggest the use of selected strains of O. oeni as an effective tool to enhance wine aromatic complexity through malolactic fermentation. Also in this book, the authors analyze results of 12 Regional Climate Simulations of the CORDEX project using an ensemble constructed by a multiple linear regression approach for the RCP4.5 and RCP8.5 scenarios. Four different indices were chosen that take into account temperature and rainfall to synthesize the influence of climate on viticulture. The final chapter discusses a virtual environment for training and practicing work in winemaking, named BITWINE; evaluates winemaking competences developed by trainees of wine-themes using BITWINE, and discusses the future challenges for the Chilean wine industry in using virtual learning environments as a tool to improve workers competencies for winemaking.

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Book SynopsisAdvances in Engineering Research. Volume 21 opens with a review of some basic theoretical elements of DES and case studies related to construction process and maintenance management, which can illustrate the practical benefits of this discrete event simulation. Afterwards, the authors propose a low cost ultrasonic planar anemometer that is achieved by introducing an Arduino based architecture. The preliminary design and calibration results and experimental activities are described. Additionally, the authors establish a closed-form analytical model based on the TOM modified shear-lag model (Tsai-Oplinger-Morton), considering the existence of a void within the adhesive joint was established for a fixed-free double lap bonded joint under static axial force. In a separate paper, the E-filter requirements of Nyquist WDM signal generation are evaluated with spectral pre-emphasis for system performance convergence with high-level modulation formats; the required optical-signal-to-noise ratio (OSNR) for a 10-3 bit error rate (BER) is assessed as a function of channel spacing and DAC resolution. Later, the authors analyze the forecasting of residential load demand, using Auto Regressive with Exogenous Inputs, Artificial Neural Networks and Artificial Neural Networks optimized by Genetic Algorithm. Artificial Neural Networks optimized by Genetic Algorithm achieved the best results. A study is presented in which a WEB inquiry platform of fishery output value is designed. The authors also analyze the yield of fishery to determine whether it is needed to increase the catch volume and to help fishery management to make decisions about catching and fishing moratorium. In this book, new compositions of silicone pressure-sensitive adhesives with terpenes are presented. Based on this, Si-PSA with low viscosity exhibit increased tack and decreased adhesion, cohesion, viscosity, and shrinkage compared to pure compositions. The authors propose group robotics, using the humanoid robot as an experimental platform for developing the system with vision, speech and motion combination. The idea of a flexible service robot is proposed. This design includes a system with the vision-guided system embedded in it to for obstacle avoidance. In the closing study, the analytical expressions of both the electric and magnetic field for surface wave propagation are derived through calculated Hertz potentials. The influence of key parameters that determine the behavior of graphene on the SPP propagation characteristics is comprehensively explored, and the analysis is extended to magnetically biased graphene sheets.

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Book SynopsisScience, technology, engineering, and mathematics collectively known as STEM are rapidly advancing fields in their own rights. As a book series, Current STEM aims to be a friendly forum for both academic researchers and industrial practitioners to present their work as book chapters. Hence, the chapters should be varied, and this is intended. Current STEM encompasses the type of work to encourage a generation of researcher-practitioners. The author hopes this inaugural volume will be a pleasure to a wide audience.

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Book SynopsisThis book is divided into two sections. Section One covers the authors'' work on the synthesis and characteristics of the various carbon nanofibers and microcoils using chemical vapor deposition and electrospun technologies. This section includes Chapters One through Four. Chapter One is an introductory chapter which presents synthesis, properties and analysis of carbon nanofibers and microcoils prepared by chemical vapor deposition and electrospun technologies. Chapter Two introduces information for approaching electrospun carbon nanofibers (ECNFs) with superior mechanical strength from aligned and stretched polyacrylonitrile (PAN) copolymer nanofibers possessing high degrees of morphological and structural perfection. Chapter Three investigates the in-situ and ex-situ processes for the formation of geometrically controlled carbon microcoils and the practical application of carbon microcoils to the various nano/micro electronic or mechanical devices. Chapter Four discusses the synthesis and various characterizations of carbon nanofibers synthesized by catalytic chemical vapor deposition of halogenated hydrocarbons. Section Two deals with the recent advances in materials synthesis and characterization of carbon nanofibers and their applications such as Li secondary batteries, supercapacitors and heavy metal remediation in ground and wastewater. This section includes chapter Five through Ten. Chapter Five presents preparation and characterization of carbon nanofibers (CNFs), CNFs-Si, and CNFs-(PC)Si composites synthesized by the Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD) method using transition metal catalysts and applications to anode materials of Li secondary batteries. Chapter Six introduces a synthesis and characterization of carbon nanofibers and Si/carbon nanofiber composites based on Ni and Mo catalysts prepared for the anode material of Li secondary batteries. Chapter Seven discusses the electrophoretic deposition of Ni and Cu catalysts on C-fiber textiles for the growth of carbon nanofibers and coating of silica by the hydrolysis of tetraethyl orthosilicate on carbon nanofibers, and finally applications to the anode materials for Li secondary batteries. Chapter Eight presents synthesis and characterization of transition metal coated carbon nanofibers on Ni foam via CVD followed by a dipping method and electrochemical performance as anode materials for Li secondary batteries. Chapter Nine introduces a design of hierarchical porous carbon materials containing various metal oxides as an electrode material for high-performance supercapacitors. Chapter Ten discusses an innovative carbon nanofibrous composite material prepared by the electrospun method and its application for efficient heavy metal pollutant remediation in contaminated groundwater as well as in wastewater treatment.

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Book SynopsisAgricultural Research Updates. Volume 23 opens with a study wherein cryoprotectants such as hydrocolloids, kappa- and iota-carrageenans, xanthan gum and dairy proteins were added to mashed potatoes to investigate ways of improving the effects of freezing and thawing. Samples containing 0.5 and 1.5 g kg1 added XG were preferred organoleptically due to the creamy mouthfeel they produced, and the instrumental texture profile analysis consistency correlated well with sensory texture attributes. Following this, the authors present the results of some noticeable studies on organic agriculture and innovative crops are discussed as a strategy reducing the risks of climate change on animal feed supplies. During the last two decades, several studies have been conducted on the evaluation of the growth performance and quality of crops under the organic cropping system, with the obtained results suggesting that in many cases yield and quality were comparable between organic and conventional systems. Also in this book, a study is included in which it is concluded that wintering root systems of the goldenrod type protect themselves from metal stress caused by basipetally obtruded excess minerals, as well as reduce the mineral load to the root functional level via exudation rather than to act as a sink for macro- and micronutrients. This means that these perennials share an immediate dependence on the availability of soil minerals with annual plants. In the conserving nutrients released by herbage and roots, the buffering capacity of the soil that is commonly improved by perennial plant covers may be more essential than any internal root storage potential. Later, the authors examine the present knowledge concerning silage quality, in relation to the wilting degree and ensilability characteristics of some grass silages or haylages, for the following crops: lucerne, red clover, sulla, sainfoin, galega, foxtail millet, orchardgrass, and chia. Afterwards, the authors discuss the Peterhof genetic collection of rye, created over the past 60 years and initially under the direction of V. S. Fedorov. The collection includes accessions with individual morphological mutations and their combinations, the meiotic mutants, inbred lines with identified mutations of self-compatibility. The close linkage of self-compatible mutation in the locus S with isozyme marker Prx7 suggests a scheme for the introduction of individual selection for improvement and differentiation of rye varieties. The subsequent study aimed to compare the retail yield quality of meat from young bulls and steers fed diets based on mycorrhizal (Myc) and conventional corn (Conv). The trial was carried out on the meat of 10 steers received a Myc corn diet, 10 steers and 10 bulls received a conventional corn diet. The chemical composition of meat, in particular the fatty acid (FA) profile and the rheological characteristics, such as meat cooking shrinkage, together with the Vis-NIR-IR properties of the thawed and the freeze-dried specimens were evaluated. In an additional study, the authors suggest that efficiency payments in Swiss agriculture show that such payments have complex side-effects, casting doubt on their overall positive contribution. A structural equation model, based on a survey of Swiss farmers, shows that promoting no-tillage leads to greater use of glyphosate and that other programs lead to over-mechanization and increased pressure on the soil. In the concluding study, CAD models were subjected to a FEA to determine whether they support the intended workloads (static analysis), and therefore, to ascertain whether the design is well dimensioned or would not withstand operating conditions. The results for stress distribution, deformation, displacement, and safety coefficient demonstrate that although the press works properly, it is oversized and its design could be optimized to save manufacturing costs.

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Book SynopsisIn the opening chapter of Advances in Engineering Research. Volume 23, the authors describe the unique challenges of the logging tool hardware, measurements, and the spin-dynamics modeling, as well as data processing. The second part of the chapter describes typical NMR pulse sequences that are used for logging measurements, NMR responses for fluids in rock pore systems, and the petrophysical interpretation models and methodologies for petroleum reservoir formation evaluation. Next, the laws of rolling are derived in terms of elastic and geometric properties of rolling bodies and foundations. The rolling resistance coefficient was analytically calculated in the cases of: a) an elastic cylinder rolling over another elastic cylinder of another material, in particular, over an elastic half-space, and an elastic wheel rolling over the rail of another elastic material; b) an elastic ball rolling over another elastic ball of another material, particularly over an elastic half-space; c) an elastic torus rolling over an elastic half-space of another material; and d) a cylinder, or a ball, or a torus rolling over a tightly stretched membrane or over a thin elastic plate. This collection also deals with pressure tests conducted in EOR (enhanced Oil Recovery) projects where heat has caused changes in the viscosity of the reservoir fluids, which creates a difference in mobility between two zones of the reservoir. Under those conditions, the reservoir becomes a composite with two different zones. As inaccurate results will be obtained if the interpretation of well tests is not conducted properly, the authors present a practical methodology for interpretation. Next, the different trajectory inhibitory effects of laser re-melting on coating microstructure defects are discussed. The results indicate that the laser re-melting trajectory exerts a significant influence on the microstructure of the re-melted coating defect prevention, in which the round orbit forms finer equiaxed grains, restrains the formation and propagation of crack source, and acts such that the hard phases, such as W2C, CrO, and Cr2O3, were strengthened by dispersion in the round orbit, and also improved the tribological performance of such re-melted coatings. The circular trajectory wear loss is 30.2 percent of that of the dot trajectory. Lastly, thermal spraying technology is analyzed as a key surface strengthening and protection method. After a hundred years of development of the process, thermal spraying technology has been widely used to prepare wear-resistant layers, corrosion-resistant layers, and various functional coatings. The authors analyze the microstructure, phase composition, element distribution, and micro-hardness of the interface between coating and substrate were analysed to provide a theoretical basis for the application and popularisation of laser remelting in the field of thermal spraying.

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Book SynopsisThis book concerns advanced materials for electrochemical technologies. Firstly, the focus concerns fuel cell devices in which state of the art materials for anodes in both fuel cells and biological fuel cells were carefully discussed. After that, novel sensors and biosensors were deeply described. Finally, the wastewater treatment using advanced oxidation processes was pointed out, taking into account anodes and/or cathodes evidencing materials and processes. Briefly, energy, bio-applications and environmental approaches were discussed using electrochemistry as the main tool.

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Book SynopsisThe volume explores the emerging science of nanotechnology which deals with the understanding of the fundamental physics, chemistry, biology, material science and technology of nanometer scale objects, which has become a central pillar for the next generation medical challenges such as developing tiny nanodevices, as well as for food technology. There is no doubt that the development of emerging nanotechnology based nanomedicine, nanodevices for diagnostics and therapy, drug delivery systems and other applications are fast growing research areas for chemistry, biology, physics, medicine and different disciplines of engineering. On the other hand, due to the possible use in human health and food technology, the same emerging technology might raise new ethical issues and therefore require careful analysis of ethical aspects. To summarize the recent growth, the first volume in the Nanotechnology: Principles, Applications and Ethical Considerations series discusses the basic science behind the emerging technology, which is necessary to understand how these tiny materials can be used in our daily lives. This book provides a state-of-the-art overview of this rapidly-expanding and fascinating field from the molecular level to possible applications in the medical field. It contains eight chapters written by world renowned experts in this area, covering from basic science to possible nanomedicine designs, which can have numerous applications in our society. This book is unique in its design and content, providing a depth of science for readers that will help them understand the benefits and limitations of nanotechnology as well as its ethical and social implications.

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Book SynopsisCurrent Concerns in Environmental Engineering is a treatment of 15 topics of great contemporary relevance by bestselling author S. A. Abbasi. Each topic is covered from its basics to its global application in a highly concise and compact yet exceedingly clear and lucid style. The coverage has a wide sweep, reflective of the great diversity and complexity of challenges presently faced by the Earths environment. Some of the biggest existence-threatening questions are also addressed in this book -- for example: Is renewable energy as safe for the world as is believed? Can technology make the present paradigm of development sustainable? Will a shift to renewables halt global warming? Is fossil fuel decarburization really workable? Current Concerns in Environmental Engineering would enhance the comprehension of undergraduate and graduate students while giving them a worldview that formal textbooks generally fail to do. The book will be exceedingly useful to teachers and researchers due to the fresh insights it can give and the innovative thinking it can stimulate. The book is profusely illustrated with dramatic as well as aesthetically pleasing visuals. Besides capturing the interest of the reader the visuals also enhance the readers comprehension and appreciation of the text.

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Book SynopsisThe first-principle approach is designed for the interpretation of the experimental observations and prediction of properties for new nanomaterials. The understanding of physical phenomena requires a description at the atomic scale where size and geometric organization play important roles. The major challenge is to model systems as close as possible to those developed in the laboratory. The complexity both in terms of the geometric structure and chemical composition that comprise the modeling of such systems requires an entire panel of approaches ranging from semi-empirical methods to ab initio methods. At the atomic scale, the elementary bricks of the buildings are atoms. The cohesion and dynamics of these buildings are the result of interactions between these atoms. Two major classes of modeling techniques for these buildings can be distinguished: Electronic structure calculations and molecular simulation methods. Molecular simulation methods are limited in their application since they cannot be used to model properties that depend on the electronic structure. As part of the electronic structure calculations, the building is described by the notion of wave function. One of the fundamental tasks of quantum physics is to solve a differential equation according to the electronic, nuclear and spin coordinates via the Schrödinger equation. The resolution of this equation in analytical form is impossible, except in the case of hydrogenites. Different numerical resolution methods have been developed based on a series of simplifications and successive approximation techniques. Once solved, this equation gives the total energy of the system, the associated wave function, and the energies of the electronic states. These methods are applied at a temperature of zero and at a fixed pressure. There are several families of methods: Semi-empirical methods, Hartree-Fock (HF) methods and density functional (DFT) methods. From the dependence of the total energy on the volume of the mesh, we can deduce the equilibrium crystalline parameters, the modulus of rigidity or the enthalpy of formation. Finally and above all, they allow, through studies of electronic structure, to identify the phenomena that govern the substitutions. In other words, thanks to the fundamental laws of quantum physics, it is possible to compute macroscopic properties from microscopic information. The interface between the first-principle and experimental design could provide a way to answer a lot of problems and open questions on the physical properties of nanomaterials. The purpose of this book is to propose some ideas to answer the most important question in the design of nanomaterials (OD,1D and 2D) for nanotechnology application, namely, nanomaterials for spintronic application, nanomaterials for solar energy technologies application, magnetic refrigeration applications, switchable materials application and nanomedicine applications. Additionally, the author will discuss the correlation between the first-principle and experimental design to see how the properties of the yet-to-be-synthesized nanomaterials can be predicted. Based on experimental and on first-principle calculations design, the author will discuss structural, optical and magnetic properties of new nanomaterials. New physical properties will be discussed in nanomaterials recently observed, and this creates new opportunities for development and construction of a new nanomaterial for nanotechnology applications.

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Book SynopsisHerbal or plant ingredients demonstrate beneficial effects against human disease treatment and prevention. These ingredients are collectively referred to as phytochemicals. Volume 9 describes these ingredients, their pharmacological actions and novel detection methods with regard to herbal remedies such as Chimonanthus praecox (wintersweet), a green revolution to increase the detection of new ingredients and ingredients, and the typical tropical fruit known as jackfruit. This volume mainly describes their effects, preventions and treatments, including their roles as folklore remedies: Chapter 1: Medicinal Phytochemicals and Health Effects of Chimonanthus praecox (Wintersweet) Based on Their Evidences; Chapter 2: The Green Revolution in Nanotechnology: Sustainable Preparation of Nanoparticles from Phytochemicals and Their Applications; and Chapter 3: The Phytochemicals and Health Benefits of Artocarpus heterophyllus (Jackfruit). These chapters will provide more advanced information to researches in the region of new drug designs of phytochemicals.

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Book SynopsisThe changing energy scenario has now become the focus of researchers, scientists, economists, industries and governments with the objectives of fulfilling current needs through advanced renewable technologies and looking towards the future with sustainable systems. This book comprises fourteen chapters to discuss some noteworthy advances in renewable energy with some sustainable issues. Wind and solar energy are the major renewable energy sources and contribute significantly to renewable energy installations across the globe. A significantly increasing trend of offshore wind turbine installations, wind turbine design and wind farm simulation techniques and vertical axis wind turbines are the subjects used for the first four chapters included in this book. Solar thermal applications are significantly increasing along with PV applications. The middle four chapters are focused on solar thermal energy and photovoltaics. The next two chapters relate to case studies of hybrid wind-PV systems. Chapter Eleven presents an analysis and optimization of barriers to hydropower development in Nepal. In the last two chapters, the global scenario of transportation, its development, policies, and particularly the status in Indian and performance enhancement of e-rickshaws in India based on battery-ultracapacitor hybrid energy sources is presented. In the last chapter, the application of an axiomatic design approach for constructability in design is presented in an interesting manner.

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Book SynopsisAdvances in Engineering Research. Volume 24 begins with a discussion of solvent extraction, which is widely applied and has shown significant advances in the last four decades. The simplicity, speed and vast scope of solvent extraction are key in separation, purification and enrichment steps in many fields such as analytical chemistry, chemical engineering, and hydrometallurgy. Solvent extraction has become crucial in the intensification processes due to its excellent characteristics. Next, the authors review the on-road test and Real Driving Emissions, focusing on the main concepts, developments and future challenges, as well as presenting their shortcomings. The gap between regulated emissions from vehicle certification procedures and real-world driving has become increasingly wider, particularly for nitrogen oxides (NOx). Even though stricter emission regulations have been implemented, NOx emissions are dependent on specific, short-duration driving events which are difficult to account for. Therefore, high concentrations of these pollutants are still being measured in European cities. The following chapter presents a reverse engineering approach by utilizing laser scanning technology in cultural heritage in two case studies. An analytical methodology is presented revealing the step by step approach from scanning to prototyping, which is a part of the larger field of digital archeology. A variety of parties could benefit from the demonstration of such an analytical approach, including production engineers, three-dimensional CAD users and designers, archeologists and museum curators. This compilation also examines pressure tests conducted in EOR projects where heat has caused changes in the viscosity of the reservoir fluids, which creates a difference in mobility between two zones of the reservoir. Under those conditions, the reservoir becomes a composite with two different zones. Inaccurate results will be obtained if the well test interpretation is not conducted properly, so a practical methodology for the interpretation in such systems is presented. Later, the latest advances in the modeling of gas-solid reactions are described in detail, and a review is provided on the early approaches to the modeling of gas-solid reactions. It is concluded that there are two major groups of models: the pore models and the grain models. The main shortcomings of classical models are the assumption of a uniform initial microstructure and that the sintering effect is neglected. In conclusion, WiMAX or Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access, based on IEEE 802.16, is proposed as the standard for broadband wireless access (BWA) over a large metropolitan area. WiMAX has received widespread support from both the computer and telecom industries worldwide, making this technology particularly cost-effective. Flexible bandwidths and different modulation schemes enable WiMAX systems to adaptive change of the speed and capacity of the wireless connection based on the demand.

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Book SynopsisIn India and the surrounding countries, turmeric has long been used as a traditional folk medicine for treating and preventing various diseases as well as a spice for culinary purposes. Recent studies have shown that turmeric is effective as an antioxidant, antibacterial, antihypertensive, anti-diabetic and anti-myocardial infarction. In South America particularly in Mexico diverse tropical and subtropical fruits can be found. These fruits and herbs have been used as prescriptions for Mexican folk medicine. Among these formulations, mention is made especially of fruits and vegetables having cardiometabolic effects. Arthrospira maxima (spirulina) is generally known as an oxygenic photosynthetic bacteria and is rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs). The following chapters describe in detail preventions and treatments concerning medicinal fruits and herbs found in the abovementioned sites: Chapter One: The Phytochemicals and Health Benefits of Curcuma longa Linn. (Turmeric) (Family: Zingiberaceae); Chapter Two: Cardiometabolic Effects of Functional Foods and Phytochemicals within Mexican Folklore Medicine (Part 1); Chapter Three: Cardiometabolic Effects of Functional Foods and Phytochemicals within Mexican Folklore Medicine (Part 2); and Chapter Four: Arthrospira maxima (Spirulina): Protection against Mitomycin C-Induced Dominant Lethal Mutations. These chapters will provide more advanced information to researches in studying new drug designs of phytochemicals.

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Book SynopsisIt is well known that after the discovery of fullerenes (1985) and carbon nanotubes (1991) so many scientific and engineering groups in the world have started to use these structures in order to modify the basic properties of the organic and inorganic materials. The main advantage to improve the materials properties have been shown when the fullerenes or carbon nanotubes have been incorporated into the body of the conjugated organic materials or into the inorganic materials lattice. However, the change in material properties when structuring their surface has been shown in less detail. In the current book, namely the surface modification of the different types of the materials are shown. The promising nano-objects used for this aim the carbon nanotubes are proposed. The basic features of these nano-objects are regarded to their branched surface, high conductivity, strong hardness of their CC bonds, little value of the refractive index as well as their complicated and unique mechanisms of charge carrier moving. Different types of the optical materials such as metals (Al, Sc, etc.), semiconductors (ZnSe, ZnS, etc.), optical crystals (LiF, KBr, etc.), ITO layer, and polymer matrix surface are treated by the laser oriented deposition technique under the condition to vertically deposit the nano-objects mentioned above in order to change the refractivity, spectral, mechanical characteristics and wetting phenomena of the materials. Analytical and quantum chemical calculations support the experimental results. The book can extend the materials database and can be useful for the education process as well as for the practical application.

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Book SynopsisAgricultural Research Updates. Volume 24 begins with a mention of various features of maize chromosomes such as cytological mapping of meiotic chromosomes, heterochromatic knobs, centromeres, neocentromeres and DNA content in the maize genome. The authors report on the variability of tropical maize chromosomes and on chromosomal alterations in maize karyotype that occurred in callus cultures. Next, the authors present an overview of reports addressing the successful development of rhizobial strains that are symbiotically more efficient by overexpression of single or multiple genes, directly or indirectly associated to the symbiotic process, such as nodulation, nitrogen fixation, stress response and phytohormone production genes among others. The main objective is of the following chapter is to evaluate the performance of 42 olive varieties in low water conditions and to infer the relationships between the leaf parameters and other variables. The findings of this study provide supplementary information about the performance of olive varieties cultivated intensively under low water conditions and what leaf indices can be used to evaluate their responses. A chained set of trials was conducted and described with the aim of studying whether corn fertilized by Arbuscular Mycorrhiza could influence crop yields, affect mycotoxins and modify poultry and pig meat production, in the short term, or after a long period of storage. Two experiments conducted in corn fields treated with a commercial bio-fertilizer have shown that the yield can be improved and that the resistance to fungal attacks had significantly increased. Additionally, the authors aim to develop and evaluate the cosmetic performance of emulsions containing oils and vegetable butter from Brazilian organic agriculture, verifying the influence of these emollients on the physical-chemical and sensory stability of cosmetic formulations. This is the first study investigating these raw materials from Brazilian organic agriculture in emulgel-type cosmetic formulations. The next chapter describes a new no-contact method of determining bird mass that does not have the deficiencies of old-fashioned automatic weighing platforms in the poultry industry. The method is based on computer processing of digital top-down images of the birds automatically taken with a camera mounted on the ceiling of a poultry house. Salacca edulis is known to possess flavonoids, flavanol, tannin, anthocyanin, ascorbic acid, alkaloid and antioxidants which may make it important in disease prevention. The authors aim to assess the long-term impact of S. edulis intake on specific populations and their functionality claims. In the closing study, four native Bradyrhizobium isolates (NRI1, NRI2, NRI3, and NRI4) obtained from field trap cultures set in acidic soils of Embu and Tharaka Nithi County, Kenya and a commercial inoculant (USDA 110), were examined for acid tolerance on yeast extract mannitol agar at pH levels of 3, 5, 7 and 9. Moreover, the isolates were examined for nitrogen fixation potential in greenhouse bioassays using limed and non-limed field soil.

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Book SynopsisIn East Asia, Korean ginseng has long been used as a private medicine and nourishing tonic, used for maintaining physical strength as well as treating and preventing various diseases. Coffee is known for preventing lifestyle diseases such as high blood pressure, myocardial infarction, diabetes and dementia, and has adjuvant effects. In India, Semecarpus anacardium L. f has been used as a cure for private medicine and has been used as various disease treatments. In fact, Semecarpus anacardium L. f. contains bioactive ingredients such as antioxidant compounds. Mexican peppers with bright variegated colors are rich in plant pigmentation. Among these plant dyes, in particular, authors describe the correlation between carotenes and functionality, as well as the challenges to prevent and treat these diseases. A detailed explanation of these four titles is made as follows: Volume 10 mainly describes the effects, preventions and treatments of ginseng, including its folklore remedy as phytochemicals as follows: Chapter One: Medicinal Phytochemicals and Health Effects of Panax ginseng (Korean Ginseng); Chapter Two: Coffee''s Phytochemicals: From Biosynthesis to Health Benefits; Chapter Three: Nature-Inspired Phytochemicals and the Pharmacological Activities of Herbal Plants of the Anacardiaceae Family and Semecarpus anacardium L.f; and Chapter Four: Carotenoids from Mexican Peppers and Their Benefical Effects. These chapters will provide more advanced information to researches in the region of new drug designs for phytochemicals.

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Book SynopsisPiezoelectricity is the generation of electrical charge in response to mechanical stress and vice versa. In this compilation, bismuth-based ceramics having chemical formula 0.96[{Bi0.5 (Na0.84K0.16)0.5}1-xLix(Ti1-yNby)O3]0.04SrTiO3 (BNKLiTNST) with x=y = 00.030 were synthesized by a conventional solid-state reaction method, and a stack-type multilayer actuator was fabricated by using optimal composition. The effect of Li and Nb co-substitution on structure and electrical properties of BNKTST ceramics was explored. The extracellular matrix is composed of various types of proteins and carbohydrates, and the compositions are different according to tissue type and developmental and pathological states. The authors compare the advantages and disadvantages between tissues/organs-derived decellularized matrices and cultured cell-derived decellularized matrices. In addition, recent studies on understanding extracellular matrix roles with cultured cell-derived decellularized matrices are introduced. The aim of the following work is to perform a detailed investigation of the evolution of dislocation substructure during hot deformation of austenite within a dynamic recovery regime using transmission electron microscopy. A 22Cr-19Ni-3Mo (wt.%) model austenitic stainless steel was used as an experimental material and the deformation was performed in torsion at 900 C at a strain rate of 0.7 s-1 to several strain levels. Carbon-based materials have gained tremendous attention owing to their widespread application in catalytic, electrochemical, and energy storage systems. Among them, carbon aerogels are a new type of nanomaterial: a porous carbon material with a three-dimensional (3D) network. The authors present various types of carbon aerogels and synthetic strategies to fabricate them. The applications of carbon aerogels such as catalysis, energy storage, hydrogen storage and oil cleanup are comprehensively discussed. The well-documented health benefits of tannic acid, along with its low cost has attracted significant interests from researchers. As such, this compilation also discusses the complexation between tannic acid and proteins leading to fabrication of biodegradable protein-tannic acid multilayers. The section further explains the different fabrication and characterization techniques, the factors behind the formation of soluble and insoluble complexes, the multilayers physicochemical properties. Next, the authors present a research review, regarding the study of stress concentration in fiber reinforced polymer composites, made by different authors. These materials, composed of a matrix and fibers, have a mechanical behavior that depends on the mechanical characteristics of each of them and the orientation of the fibers, variables that are considered in this review, which are evident in the stress concentration due to geometric discontinuities, which can be located in different ways. Later, one chapter discusses the synthesis and thermal diffusivity/conductivity of dysprosium zirconate, cerate and hafnate as a new type of material with pyrochlore/fluorite lattices to replace conventional yttria stabilized zirconia ZrO2 × Y2O3 in thermal barrier coatings systems for aircraft gas turbines. The necessity to develop new material solutions for thermal barrier coatings systems is related to the increased outlet temperature in gas turbines. The temperature and dislocations distributed in Liquid-Phase-Pulse-Impact Diffusion Welding welded joints of aluminum matrix composite SiCp & Al2O3p/AlMg1SiCu is also investigated. Results show that the area between the solid phase and liquid phase increases with welding temperature increment; the internal stress at interface of SiCp/AlMg1SiCu releases to improve the strength of welded joints attractively, and more. Finally, a generalized phenomenological model is developed which describes the process of fragmentation of polycrystalline structure of metals/alloys during severe plastic deformation. This model has been generalized to achieve the stated goal. The grain boundaries and dislocations that are responsible for the formation of the fine-grained structure and the limit of the plastic are considered as the main structural defects.

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Book SynopsisThe production, consumption and appreciation of food are among the most important and fundamental aspects of life. The supply of nutritious and safe food is pivotal to societal wellbeing and stability, as well as to personal happiness. Revolutions in agriculture, in food processing and in understanding of the priorities of consumers have enabled us to create a stable supply of affordable food even as populations have grown and society has changed. These dramatic and beneficial changes in how we produce food have been underpinned by advances in science in general and by chemistry in particular.Food and its production is now facing unprecedented and significant challenges from several directions including population growth, changes in expectations, increases in diet related chronic diseases, globalisation and, perhaps most significantly, sustainability. The flow of increased urbanisation means the vast majority of people are detached from the knowledge of how food is grown, processed and presented to them. Under these circumstances, it is essential that scientists, policymakers, legislators and industry members work together from a common and consistent knowledge base to provide consumers with healthy, nutritious and sustainable food.This book presents expert opinions of thought on the challenges and opportunities people face in key areas and how current knowledge can help to define our future. It is comprised of twelve chapters and deals with the whole food system, from primary production to the consumer purchase. It will be of value to stakeholders including scientists, policymakers, industry members and consumers.

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Book SynopsisAdvances in Materials Science Research. Volume 34 begins with a review of results on the modelling of the plasma-assisted growth of vertically aligned carbon nanostructures (VACNs). Growth of carbon nanofibers, single-walled carbon nanotubes and other carbon nanostructures are considered, as well as studies that use the mechanistic models based on mass balance equations for species. Next, data on the application of Rayleigh and Mandelstam-Brillouin scattering (RMBS) spectroscopy to controlling the elastic, elasto-optic, optical parameters of inorganic glasses, crystals, and glass-crystalline materials is reviewed. The possibilities of using RMBS spectroscopy for research and development of materials for optical and electro-optical fiber drawing, as well as glasses doped with rare earth ions and quantum dots, are considered. The authors go on to propose that the purification of graphene from heavy metals can be performed by bombardment with noble gas clusters. The method of molecular dynamics is used to study the removal of copper, lead, and mercury from graphene by irradiating the target using a beam of Ar13 or Xe13 clusters with energies of 530 eV at angles of incidence 0, 45, 60, and 90. As an indispensable component of future flexible electronics, flexible resistive switching memories have recently garnered great interest globally. As such, a comprehensive review on the recent progress in this field is presented with a particular emphasis on materials and devices. A short discussion on the current challenges and future prospects of flexible resistive switching memories is also provided. Following this, the authors aim to present a comprehensive examination of the different catalysts used in hydroisomerization reactions, focusing: the acid support, mainly zeolites, the precious metals that offer the hydrogenating sites and the methodologies used to produce effective bifunctional catalysts. The catalysts used in industrial refining processes as well as new research trends are surveyed. A fast, efficient and versatile route for the synthesis of 4,4-diaminotriarylmethanes using Sr(DS)2 as a Lewis acid-surfactant-combined catalyst (LASCs) in the presence of N,N-dimethyl aniline and aryl aldehydes is reported in closing. LASCs not only act as a Lewis acid to activate substrate molecules, but also serve as a surfactant to form stable colloidal dispersion systems with organic substrates.

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Book SynopsisThis book is devoted to the computer modeling of two-dimensional materials consisting of no more than two sheets of graphene or silicene. The results of the investigation of the mechanical and thermal properties of such ultrathin films that are in a free-standing state and, also, located on substrates of silver, copper, and graphite are presented. The thermal stability of copper, nickel, and aluminum films of monatomic thickness on graphene has been studied. The calculated data on the temperature dependence of the thermal conductivity of single-layer graphene and silicene are presented. The excellent adsorption properties of graphene allow one to use it as a filter. A method for purifying graphene from heavy metals (copper, lead, and mercury) is proposed and implemented in a computer experiment by bombarding a contaminated graphene film on a copper substrate by clusters of noble gases with energies from 5 to 30 eV at various angles of incidence. This method of purifying graphene from mercury is compared with the method of heating this toxic metal deposited on graphene. The book is aimed at creating new composite materials with the use of graphene and silicene. Considerable attention is paid to the creation of high-capacity, rapidly cyclic, long-lived anodes of ionic batteries. Graphene and silicene can be used as anode materials of lithium-ion batteries, while their charge capacity sharply increase and the charging time is shortened. Here, the authors describe the results of the passage of lithium ions through graphene and silicene membranes. Vacancy defects form the holes in these membranes. Further development of electrochemical current sources is constrained due to the lack of suitable anode material. Graphene, and especially silicene, are the main materials for designing the anode of a lithium-ion battery. This book describes computer experiments involving the passage by lithium ions through the graphene, silicene, and silicene-graphene channels formed by corresponding perfect sheets and sheets containing vacancy defects. The processes of intercalation and deintercalation of lithium into silicene channels of various degrees of defectiveness located on a silver and copper substrate are considered. The lithium ion moving in the electric field along the channel is considered as a probe for determining the detailed structure of the channel. This approach allows us to investigate the surrounding of the ion by both Si-rings and Si-polyhedra. The prospect of using silicene on pyrolytic graphite as an anode material is examined. Computer tests are supported by the calculation of the energy, kinetic and mechanical characteristics of the functional elements of the anode. In each case, all components of the stress tensor of a two-dimensional material are determined. This book will be useful for scientists, graduate students, and students who are interested in the actual use of unique two-dimensional materials in the form of graphene and silicene. This book may interest technologists engaged in the field of electronics and the creation of electrochemical current sources, materials scientists, researchers using low-energy cluster beams, and specialists in the field of computer modeling. This work was supported by the Russian Science Foundation [the grant number 16-13-00061].

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Book SynopsisThe determination of olive oil authenticity is currently carried out using techniques that provide data regarding its quality, sensory attributes, and composition. Such analytical techniques include: Volatile compound analysis using SPME-GC/MS, stable carbon isotope ratio analysis (SCIRA), nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), specific natural isotopic fractionation nuclear magnetic resonance (SNIF/NMR), proton transfer mass spectrometry (PTR/MS), isotope ratio mass spectroscopy (IRMS), gas chromatography (GC), high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), high performance liquid chromatography/ mass spectroscopy (HPLC/MS), inductively coupled plasma spectroscopy (ICP) as well as DNA techniques.

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Book SynopsisIndoor air quality and human health are of continuously growing importance. Indoor air quality may be affected by many factors excluding, but not limited to, more loosely sealed buildings, the use of air purifiers and other pollutant sources (for example, room air fresheners), the use of various chemicals for pesticide management and cleaning, and finally, the use of synthetic building materials and furnishings. In recent years, people have become more aware of potential health and comfort problems that may be associated with poor indoor air quality. It is partly due to the move to more tightly sealed buildings, the implementation of energy conservation programs, and the growing use of laser printers, photocopiers, and other sources of indoor air contamination. Greater general awareness of environmental issues may also play a part. Most IAQ complaints from building occupants are related to a respiratory headache, irritation, odours, or fatigue. These concerns may be associated with chemical vapours, dust generated in the work environment, contaminants associated with fungal growth (mould), materials infiltrating from outside sources (such as pollen or engine exhaust), or other factors such as elevated carbon dioxide levels. This handbook aims to turn the attention to these subjects and to promote methods and technologies to reduce poor indoor air quality and to distribute outdoor air throughout the building, remove contaminants and odours, and control the indoor temperature and humidity. The information in this guide will help to maintain good indoor air quality in a building, prevent indoor air quality problems, and correct issues that may arise. It will also help to understand the indoor air quality requirements. The structure of this text allows for flexibility in course content and design. It may be used equally well either as a textbook for students or a handbook for environmental consultants, mechanical engineers, building occupants, labour unions and suppliers. Furthermore, this text may be useful data for either the undergraduate or the graduate level. The author wishes to acknowledge Nova Science Publishers with special mentions to Nadya S Gotsiridze-Columbus and Carra Feagaiga for their editorial support.Table of ContentsFor more information, please visit our website at:https://novapublishers.com/shop/healthy-safety-and-hygiene-at-buildings-environment/

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Book SynopsisHeat conduction plays an important role in energy transfer at the macro, micro and nano scales. This book collates research results developed by scientists from different countries but with common research interest in the modelling of heat conduction problems. The results reported encompass heat conduction problems related to the Stefan problem, phase change materials related to energy consumption in buildings, the porous media problem with Bingham plastic fluids, thermosolutal convection, rewetting problems and fractional models with singular and non-singular kernels. The variety of analytical and numerical techniques used includes the classical heat-balance integral method in its refined version, double-integration technique and variational formulation applied to the integer-order and fractional models with memories.This book cannot present the entire rich area of problems related to heat conduction, but allows readers to see some new trends and approaches in the modelling technologies. In this context, the fractional models with singular and non-singular kernels and the development of the integration techniques related to the integral-balance approach form fresh fluxes of ideas to this classical engineering area of research.The book is oriented to researchers, masters and PhD students involved in heat conduction problems with a variety of applications and could serve as a rich reference source and a collection of texts provoking new ideas.

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Book SynopsisNumerical Simulation of the Heat Conductivity of Randomly Inhomogeneous Two-Dimensional Composite Materials consists of six sections. The introduction and second section present a wide variety of theoretical and empirical models for heat transport in two-component composites and their governing scientific principles. In particular, the methods of homogenization and the representative volume element are examined. The third section is devoted to the numerical methods in heat conduction processes in composites. In this section, the choice of the finite difference method and the Monte Carlo method for numerical experiments on the study of heat transfer in two-component composites was confirmed. The fourth section describes the computational model for two-component composite material with different values of the matrix and filler thermal conductivity. The study assumes a random placement of inclusions in the composite matrix with the following parameters: The concentration and size of inclusions, and the minimum distance between the inclusions. The fifth section deals with the distribution statistics of the effective heat conductivity. General forms of the effective thermal conductivity distributions and their transformation have been obtained when the parameters of the inclusions placement have been changed. Moreover, the influence of the placement heat-insulating inclusions on the parameters of the effective thermal conductivity distributions has also been discussed. The Monte Carlo simulation has been used to obtain the statistics of the effective anisotropy of the thermal conductivity distributions and its relationship to the effective thermal conductivity distributions statistics. The local heat fluxes statistics and pattern maps of local heat fluxes through a randomly inhomogeneous material with a heat-conducting matrix and heat-insulating inclusions have been analyzed in the sixth section. Numerical experiments reveal the influence of the number and extent of induced heat-conducting channels on the effective thermal conductivity of the material. Special attention has been paid to an area with a shortage of induced heat-conducting channels, or the so-called dark matrix. Multimodal distributions of the local heat flux density, as well as the binding of two distribution modes to heat-insulating inclusions and induced thermal conductive channels have been described. The third mode of distribution was tied to a dark matrix on the heat-insulating inclusions map. This section also presents the statistical distributions of angles between the direction of local heat fluxes and the temperature macro gradient as well as the transformation of the character of distribution when changing the parameters of placement for inclusions.

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Book SynopsisMolasses is obtained as a residue of the sugar industry. The major components of molasses are sucrose, glucose and fructose. In Molasses: Forms, Production and Uses, a study is presented wherein polyurethane foams were prepared using the hydroxyl group of mono- and di-saccharides as a reaction site for urethane synthesis. Molasses was dissolved in polyethylene glycol and polyols with various molasses contents were prepared. The following work contributes to the evaluation of processing technology and the quality characteristics of traditionally made carob molasses through a survey in Tunisia. Carob molasses, known locally as "Rub El Kharroub", is produced mainly by women using an artisanal process carried out with domestic equipment. Considering that molasses is produced at about 2-5% of the starting raw material, the authors suggest that depending on the raw material condition and applied processing operations, considerable amounts of sucrose can be recovered and an increase in the efficiency of the sugar factory may be achieved. Following this, the authors review the state of knowledge on the production, chemical composition and uses of sugar cane molasses in animal feeding in Cameroon and briefly examine its other uses. In this country, sugar cane molasses, the main sub-product of sugar industries, is mainly produced by the sugar company in Cameroon. The authors go on to review the latest advances on the potential of molasses as a source of functional ingredients as well as its application in various food products such as meat, vegetables and fruit. Molasses may have some other valuable functions such as shelf-life improvement, enhancement of leavening activity and buffering capacity. Lastly, an assessment was made regarding methane production from glycerin digestion and glycerin/molasses co-digestion under thermophilic conditions in a mechanically stirred anaerobic reactor, operated in sequencing batch and fed-batch.

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Book SynopsisThis book is partially composed of short communications -- proceedings of international symposium "Nanophysics and nano-engineering 2017" (venue: Mining university), and full-sized chapters, covering selected topics in depth. A variety of phenomena are described in this book. Smart nanostructured coatings, methods of synthesis based on both "top to bottom" (plasma deposition, remote methods) and "bottom to top" approaches are covered, as well as modeling approaches and analytical techniques. As before, ecological issues are highly addressed, such as materials for water purification and pollution prevention. Permanent interest in fullerenes as to one-dimensional carbon-based structures arises from their ability to be relatively easily modified by species of interest, for the purpose of bio-substrate delivery. Graphite exfoliation is utilised as a method to produce graphite nanoparticles and the modelling of fullers is reported. Issues of dielectric relaxation of solids have been a stunning topic for at least a few decades, and even now the interest in the dielectric relaxation approach seems to increase. This is because of the sensitivity of this non-destructive method to the conformational changes of flexible molecular moieties, brushes, and interchain segments. This avenue was focused on materials appliances of the method and technical development of the method and resolution, as well as the materials studied. Semiconductor technologies discussed in the book were related to developing solar concentrator systems (silicon technologies), heterojunction solar cells of eutectic gallium arsenide solid solutions for the development of alternative heterostructures based on the tunneling effect. "Exotic" semiconductors -- diamonds with delta-doped layers known for their high temperature resistance -- are studied via capacitance measurements. Directional crystallisation was studied to produce rear-Earth compounds with anisotropic properties for the application of thermoelectric materials. Findings in sorption properties of clay minerals with singlet oxygen is underestimated as global in terms of environmental factors. Oil shale and oil shale ash Baltic basin studies are reported. Materials with magnetic properties synthesised by the sol-gel method are based on varrium-titanium ceramic and are studied via a variety of powerful experimental methods: SEM, XRD, SAXC, and SAPNS. Findings in the surface modification of zinc oxide films are modified by selenium. A special experimental setup is made possible using an ambient pressure approach without isolating the atmosphere to synthesise the hierarchically ordered surface structure. Interface properties related to water absorption on an aluminum surface are analyzed, and they are of interest for tribology applications of organopolymer compositions. Composite nanostructured materials for solar concentrator systems are discussed, as well as compounds for thermionic energy converters. It is believed that this book provides an unbiased sketch of progress in nanotechnology and related areas.Table of ContentsFor more information, please visit our website at:https://novapublishers.com/shop/applied-aspects-of-nanophysics-and-nano-engineering/

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