Search results for ""taylor francis inc""

Small Area Estimation and Microsimulation Modeling is the first practical handbook that comprehensively presents modern statistical SAE methods in the framework of ultramodern spatial microsimulation modeling while providing the novel approach of creating synthetic spatial microdata. Along with describing the necessary theories and their advantages and limitations, the authors illustrate the practical application of the techniques to a large number of substantive problems, including how to build up models, organize and link data, create synthetic microdata, conduct analyses, yield informative tables and graphs, and evaluate how the findings effectively support the decision making processes in government and non-government organizations.Features Covers both theoretical and applied aspects for real-world comparative research and regional statistics production Thoroughly explains how microsimulation modeling technology can be constructed using available datasets for reliable small area statistics Provides SAS codes that allow readers to utilize these latest technologies in their own work. This book is designed for advanced graduate students, academics, professionals and applied practitioners who are generally interested in small area estimation and/or microsimulation modeling and dealing with vital issues in social and behavioural sciences, applied economics and policy analysis, government and/or social statistics, health sciences, business, psychology, environmental and agriculture modeling, computational statistics and data simulation, spatial statistics, transport and urban planning, and geospatial modeling. Dr Azizur Rahman is a Senior Lecturer in Statistics and convenor of the Graduate Program in Applied Statistics at the Charles Sturt University, and an Adjunct Associate Professor of Public Health and Biostatistics at the University of Canberra. His research encompasses small area estimation, applied economics, microsimulation modeling, Bayesian inference and public health. He has more than 60 scholarly publications including two books. Dr. Rahman’s research is funded by the Australian Federal and State Governments, and he serves on a range of editorial boards including the International Journal of Microsimulation (IJM). Professor Ann Harding, AO is an Emeritus Professor of Applied Economics and Social Policy at the National Centre for Social and Economic Modelling (NATSEM) of the University of Canberra. She was the founder and inaugural Director of this world class Research Centre for more than sixteen years, and also a co-founder of the International Microsimulation Association (IMA) and served as the inaugural elected president of IMA from 2004 to 2011. She is a fellow of the Academy of the Social Sciences in Australia. She has more than 300 publications including several books in microsimulation modeling.

Read more less

A social robot is a robot that interacts and communicates with humans or other autonomous physical agents by following social behaviors and rules attached to its role. We seem to accept the use of robots that perform dull, dirty, and dangerous jobs. But how far do we want to go with the automation of care for children and the elderly, or the killing of terrorists? Would we be setting humanity aside if we accepted such automation?Just Ordinary Robots: Automation from Love to War provides a socially involved, yet sober, view into the new age of robots. It supplies a cutting-edge look at robot technologies, including what these technologies are capable of and the ethical and regulatory questions they raise.The book surveys the various types of social robots and examines their social significance in homes, health care, traffic, the police, and the military. Considering the technical characteristics and societal expectations of robots in these areas, it explores what is possible right now in terms of robot technologies. It also looks into the social, ethical, and regulatory issues future robot technologies will create.The text provides authoritative insights into the social significance of robots for the medium and long term. Illustrating the political, administrative, and regulatory consequences related to each area, it highlights key points that need to be publicly discussed or put on the agenda by today’s politicians and policy makers.

Read more less

This book is dedicated to the field of conductive polymers, focusing on electrical interactions with biological systems. It addresses the use of conductive polymers as the conducting interface for electrical communications with the biological system, both in vitro and in vivo. It provides an overview on the chemistry and physics of conductive polymers, their useful characteristics as well as limitations, and technologies that apply conductive polymers for medical purposes. This groundbreaking resource addresses cytotoxicity and tissue compatibility of conductive polymers, the basics on electromagnetic fields, and commonly used experimental methods. Readers will also learn how cells are cultured in vitro with conductive polymers, and how conductive polymers and living tissues interact electrically. Throughout the contents, chapter authors emphasize the importance of conductive polymers in biomedical engineering and their potential applications in medicine.

Read more less

Now in its second edition, Forensic DNA Evidence Interpretation is the most comprehensive resource for DNA casework available today. Written by leaders in the fields of biology and statistics, including a contribution from Peter Gill, the father of DNA analysis, the book emphasizes the interpretation of test results and provides the necessary formulae in an easily accessible manner. This latest edition is fully updated and includes current and emerging techniques in this fast-moving field. The book begins by reviewing all pertinent biology, and then provides information on every aspect of DNA analysis. This includes modern interpretation methods and contemporary population genetic models available for estimating DNA frequencies or likelihood ratios. Following a chapter on procedures for validating databases, the text presents overviews and performance assessments of both modern sampling uncertainty methods and current paternity testing techniques, including new guidelines on paternity testing in alignment with the International Society for Forensic Genetics. Later chapters discuss the latest methods for mixture analysis, LCN (ultra trace) analysis and non-autosomal (mito, X, and Y) DNA analysis. The text concludes with an overview of procedures for disaster victim identification and information on DNA intelligence databases.Highlights of the second edition include: New information about PCR processes, heterozygote balance and back and forward stuttering New information on the interpretation of low template DNA, drop models and continuous models Additional coverage of lineage marker subpopulation effects, mixtures and combinations with autosomal markers This authoritative book provides a link among the biological, forensic, and interpretative domains of the DNA profiling field. It continues to serve as an invaluable resource that allows forensic scientists, technicians, molecular biologists and attorneys to use forensic DNA evidence to its greatest potential.

Read more less

5* Doody's Review: 98/100!Featuring a new author team, this seminal book has been completely updated and significantly expanded. Following an outline of the basic elements of ophthalmic science relevant to study and practice, the authors provide a detailed description and discussion of each condition including etiology, clinical signs, diagnosis, prognosis, and therapy, as well as a section dedicated to presumed inherited eye disorders. The focus throughout remains on the clinical needs of the practitioner and the student. Beautifully illustrated in full color, the book is aimed at trainee and practicing veterinarians interested in all types of ophthalmic diseases and disorders. Although the focus is on small animals, there is additional material on the horse and the cow. For this edition, a diverse group of authors from many geographic regions of training and practice offer a breadth of clinical expertise.

Read more less

Metal–air and metal–sulfur batteries (MABs/MSBs) represent one of the most efficient-energy storage technologies, with high round trip efficiency, a long life cycle, fast response at peak demand/supply of electricity, and decreased weight due to the use of atmospheric oxygen as one of the main reactants. This book presents an overview of the main MABs/MSBs from fundamentals to applications. Recent technological trends in their development are reviewed. It also offers a detailed analysis of these batteries at the material, component, and system levels, allowing the reader to evaluate the different approaches of their integration. The book provides a systematic overview of the components, design, and integration, and discusses current technologies, achievements, and challenges, as well as future directions. Each chapter focuses on a particular battery type including zinc–air batteries, lithium–air batteries, aluminum–air batteries, magnesium–air batteries, lithium–sulfur batteries, and vanadium–air redox flow batteries, and metal–sulfur batteries. Features the most recent advances made in metal–air/metal–sulfur batteries.Describes cutting-edge materials and technology for metal–air/metal–sulfur batteries.Includes both fundamentals and applications, which can be used to guide and promote materials as well as technology development for metal–air/metal–sulfur batteries.Provides a systematic overview of the components, design, and integration, and discusses current technologies, achievements, and challenges, as well as future directions.Covers a variety of battery types in depth, such as zinc–air batteries, lithium–air batteries, aluminum–air batteries, magnesium–air batteries, lithium–sulfur batteries, vanadium–air redox flow batteries, and metal–sulfur batteries.

Read more less

Environmental professionals are often called upon to find solutions to environmental degradation problems or to lead the way in planning to prevent them. Because they come mainly from the environmental and science disciplines, most environmental professionals have limited training in the fundamentals of economics. This book is designed to provide those professionals not only with the basic principles of economics for foundational purposes but also the economic pros and cons to consider when making critical decisions on environmental issues.Economics for Environmental Professionals provides a fully explanatory, quantitative, and practical introduction to a wide range of topics that make up the science of environmental economics. Moreover, it showcases the power of economic principles to explain and predict issues and current events impacting the environment. It discusses the economics relevant to the environmental mediums of air, water, and land and provides pertinent information on air toxics, hazardous wastes, and other related topics. It provides environmental professionals with the education not only to understand the nuts and bolts of economic analysis but also to conduct economic analyses.Throughout the book, the author joins economics and environmental practice with common-sense approaches and practical real-world examples. Designed to stimulate thought, the book explores strategies for maintaining a safe environment without excessive regulation and cost. With the information in this book, environmental professionals will have an understanding of the framework in which environmental problems exist, what they cost, how to pay for them, and what the payback is (if any).

Read more less

Event-based systems are a class of reactive systems deployed in a wide spectrum of engineering disciplines including control, communication, signal processing, and electronic instrumentation. Activities in event-based systems are triggered in response to events usually representing a significant change of the state of controlled or monitored physical variables. Event-based systems adopt a model of calls for resources only if it is necessary, and therefore, they are characterized by efficient utilization of communication bandwidth, computation capability, and energy budget. Currently, the economical use of constrained technical resources is a critical issue in various application domains because many systems become increasingly networked, wireless, and spatially distributed.Event-Based Control and Signal Processing examines the event-based paradigm in control, communication, and signal processing, with a focus on implementation in networked sensor and control systems. Featuring 23 chapters contributed by more than 60 leading researchers from around the world, this book covers: Methods of analysis and design of event-based control and signal processing Event-driven control and optimization of hybrid systems Decentralized event-triggered control Periodic event-triggered control Model-based event-triggered control and event-triggered generalized predictive control Event-based intermittent control in man and machine Event-based PID controllers Event-based state estimation Self-triggered and team-triggered control Event-triggered and time-triggered real-time architectures for embedded systems Event-based continuous-time signal acquisition and DSP Statistical event-based signal processing in distributed detection and estimation Asynchronous spike event coding technique with address event representation Event-based processing of non-stationary signals Event-based digital (FIR and IIR) filters Event-based local bandwidth estimation and signal reconstruction Event-Based Control and Signal Processing is the first extensive study on both event-based control and event-based signal processing, presenting scientific contributions at the cutting edge of modern science and engineering.

Read more less

Pseudolinear Functions and Optimization is the first book to focus exclusively on pseudolinear functions, a class of generalized convex functions. It discusses the properties, characterizations, and applications of pseudolinear functions in nonlinear optimization problems.The book describes the characterizations of solution sets of various optimization problems. It examines multiobjective pseudolinear, multiobjective fractional pseudolinear, static minmax pseudolinear, and static minmax fractional pseudolinear optimization problems and their results. The authors extend these results to locally Lipschitz functions using Clarke subdifferentials. They also present optimality and duality results for h-pseudolinear and semi-infinite pseudolinear optimization problems.The authors go on to explore the relationships between vector variational inequalities and vector optimization problems involving pseudolinear functions. They present characterizations of solution sets of pseudolinear optimization problems on Riemannian manifolds as well as results on pseudolinearity of quadratic fractional functions. The book also extends n-pseudolinear functions to pseudolinear and n-pseudolinear fuzzy mappings and characterizations of solution sets of pseudolinear fuzzy optimization problems and n-pseudolinear fuzzy optimization problems. The text concludes with some applications of pseudolinear optimization problems to hospital management and economics.This book encompasses nearly all the published literature on the subject along with new results on semi-infinite nonlinear programming problems. It will be useful to readers from mathematical programming, industrial engineering, and operations management.

Read more less

Regulatory agencies worldwide have issued directives or such requirements for air quality standards in embryology laboratories. This practical guide reviews the application of clean room technology or controlled environments specifically suited for Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) Units. Its comprehensive coverage includes material on airborne particles and volatile organic compounds, including basic concepts, regulation, construction, materials, certification, clinical results in humans, and more.

Read more less

Carbon-based nanomaterials are rapidly emerging as one of the most fascinating materials in the twenty-first century. Chemical Functionalization of Carbon Nanomaterials: Chemistry and Applications provides a thorough examination of carbon nanomaterials, including their variants and how they can be chemically functionalized. It also gives a comprehensive overview of current advanced applications of functionalized carbon nanomaterials, including the automotive, packaging, coating, and biomedical industries.The book covers modern techniques to characterize chemically functionalized carbon nanomaterials as well as characterization of surface functional groups. It includes contributions from international leaders in the field who highlight the multidisciplinary and interdisciplinary flexibility of functionalized carbon nanomaterials. The book illustrates how natural drawbacks to carbon nanomaterials, such as low solubility, can be countered by surface modifications and shows how to make modifications.It discusses developments in the use of carbon nanomaterials in several critical areas in scientific research and practice, including analytical chemistry, drug delivery, and water treatment. It explores market opportunities due to the versatility and increasing applicability of carbon nanomaterials. It also gives suggestions on the direction of the field from its current point, paving the way for future developments and finding new applications. Chemical Functionalization of Carbon Nanomaterials: Chemistry and Applications is a significant collection of findings in a rapidly developing field. It gives an in-depth look at the current achievements of research and practice while pointing you ahead to new possibilities in functionalizing and using carbon nanomaterials.

Read more less

Dermoscopy is a noninvasive skin imaging technique that uses optical magnification and either liquid immersion or cross-polarized lighting to make subsurface structures more easily visible when compared to conventional clinical images. It allows for the identification of dozens of morphological features that are particularly important in identifying malignant melanoma. Dermoscopy Image Analysis summarizes the state of the art of the computerized analysis of dermoscopy images. The book begins by discussing the influence of color normalization on classification accuracy and then: Investigates gray-world, max-RGB, and shades-of-gray color constancy algorithms, showing significant gains in sensitivity and specificity on a heterogeneous set of images Proposes a new color space that highlights the distribution of underlying melanin and hemoglobin color pigments, leading to more accurate classification and border detection results Determines that the latest border detection algorithms can achieve a level of agreement that is only slightly lower than the level of agreement among experienced dermatologists Provides a comprehensive review of various methods for border detection, pigment network extraction, global pattern extraction, streak detection, and perceptually significant color detection Details a computer-aided diagnosis (CAD) system for melanomas that features an inexpensive acquisition tool, clinically meaningful features, and interpretable classification feedback Presents a highly scalable CAD system implemented in the MapReduce framework, a novel CAD system for melanomas, and an overview of dermatological image databases Describes projects that made use of a publicly available database of dermoscopy images, which contains 200 high-quality images along with their medical annotations Dermoscopy Image Analysis not only showcases recent advances but also explores future directions for this exciting subfield of medical image analysis, covering dermoscopy image analysis from preprocessing to classification.

Read more less

This book is a result of the authors’ more than 40 years of study on the behavior, populations, and heavy metals in the colonial waterbirds nesting in Barnegat Bay and the nearby estuaries and bays in the Northeastern United States. From Boston Harbor to the Chesapeake, based on longitudinal studies of colonial waterbirds, it provides a clear picture of the toxic trends and effects of heavy metals in the aquatic environment. The authors take a food web, ecosystem approach to contaminants, using population dynamics, habitat selection, and inputs to the bay to examine metal levels. They also look at the human dimension, discuss what metals in birds tell us about human exposure, and describe stakeholder involvement in these issues.The book covers numbers and dynamics, colony sites and locations, and prey contaminant levels, and compares them to other comparable coastal estuaries. It uses colonial waterbirds as the focal point for an ecosystem approach to metals that begins with prey fish and goes through invertebrates to humans. Additionally, it provides information based on long-term integrative studies the authors have done on metal levels and bird species and compares the findings with data from the Harbor Estuaries Program, other Northeast bays, the Great Lakes, and the Wadden Sea.

Read more less

An important factor that affects the duration, complexity and cost of a clinical trial is the endpoint used to study the treatment’s efficacy. When a true endpoint is difficult to use because of such factors as long follow-up times or prohibitive cost, it is sometimes possible to use a surrogate endpoint that can be measured in a more convenient or cost-effective way. This book focuses on the use of surrogate endpoint evaluation methods in practice, using SAS and R.

Read more less

Handbook of Big Data provides a state-of-the-art overview of the analysis of large-scale datasets. Featuring contributions from well-known experts in statistics and computer science, this handbook presents a carefully curated collection of techniques from both industry and academia. Thus, the text instills a working understanding of key statistical and computing ideas that can be readily applied in research and practice.Offering balanced coverage of methodology, theory, and applications, this handbook: Describes modern, scalable approaches for analyzing increasingly large datasets Defines the underlying concepts of the available analytical tools and techniques Details intercommunity advances in computational statistics and machine learning Handbook of Big Data also identifies areas in need of further development, encouraging greater communication and collaboration between researchers in big data sub-specialties such as genomics, computational biology, and finance.

Read more less

Nature-Inspired Computing: Physics and Chemistry-Based Algorithms provides a comprehensive introduction to the methodologies and algorithms in nature-inspired computing, with an emphasis on applications to real-life engineering problems. The research interest for Nature-inspired Computing has grown considerably exploring different phenomena observed in nature and basic principles of physics, chemistry, and biology. The discipline has reached a mature stage and the field has been well-established. This endeavour is another attempt at investigation into various computational schemes inspired from nature, which are presented in this book with the development of a suitable framework and industrial applications. Designed for senior undergraduates, postgraduates, research students, and professionals, the book is written at a comprehensible level for students who have some basic knowledge of calculus and differential equations, and some exposure to optimization theory. Due to the focus on search and optimization, the book is also appropriate for electrical, control, civil, industrial and manufacturing engineering, business, and economics students, as well as those in computer and information sciences. With the mathematical and programming references and applications in each chapter, the book is self-contained, and can also serve as a reference for researchers and scientists in the fields of system science, natural computing, and optimization.

Read more less

Introduction to Visual Computing: Core Concepts in Computer Vision, Graphics, and Image Processing covers the fundamental concepts of visual computing. Whereas past books have treated these concepts within the context of specific fields such as computer graphics, computer vision or image processing, this book offers a unified view of these core concepts, thereby providing a unified treatment of computational and mathematical methods for creating, capturing, analyzing and manipulating visual data (e.g. 2D images, 3D models). Fundamentals covered in the book include convolution, Fourier transform, filters, geometric transformations, epipolar geometry, 3D reconstruction, color and the image synthesis pipeline.The book is organized in four parts. The first part provides an exposure to different kinds of visual data (e.g. 2D images, videos and 3D geometry) and the core mathematical techniques that are required for their processing (e.g. interpolation and linear regression.) The second part of the book on Image Based Visual Computing deals with several fundamental techniques to process 2D images (e.g. convolution, spectral analysis and feature detection) and corresponds to the low level retinal image processing that happens in the eye in the human visual system pathway.The next part of the book on Geometric Visual Computing deals with the fundamental techniques used to combine the geometric information from multiple eyes creating a 3D interpretation of the object and world around us (e.g. transformations, projective and epipolar geometry, and 3D reconstruction). This corresponds to the higher level processing that happens in the brain combining information from both the eyes thereby helping us to navigate through the 3D world around us.The last two parts of the book cover Radiometric Visual Computing and Visual Content Synthesis. These parts focus on the fundamental techniques for processing information arising from the interaction of light with objects around us, as well as the fundamentals of creating virtual computer generated worlds that mimic all the processing presented in the prior sections.The book is written for a 16 week long semester course and can be used for both undergraduate and graduate teaching, as well as a reference for professionals.

Read more less

The term health technology refers to drugs, devices, and programs that can improve and extend quality of life. As decision-makers struggle to find ways to reduce costs while improving health care delivery, health technology assessments (HTA) provide the evidence required to make better-informed decisions.This is the first book that focuses on the statistical options of HTAs, to fully capture the value of health improvements along with their associated economic consequences. After reading the book, readers will better understand why some health technologies receive regulatory or reimbursement approval while others do not, what can be done to improve the chances of approval, as well as common shortcomings of submissions for drug and device reimbursement.The book begins by contrasting the differences between regulatory approval and reimbursement approval. Next, it reviews the principles and steps for conducting an HTA, including the reasons why different agencies will have a different focus for their scope in the HTA.Supplying an accessible introduction to the various statistical options for different methods in an HTA, the book identifies the links to regulatory and reimbursement decisions for each option. It highlights many of the methodological advances that have occurred since HTA research began, to provide researchers and decision-makers with a cutting-edge framework. It also details the logical basis for the methods along with simple instructions on how to conduct the various techniques.Both authors have considerable experience in generating evidence for submissions and reviewing submissions to decision-makers for funding. One of the authors has also received a nationally recognized lifetime achievement award in this area.

Read more less

Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) ensures medicinal products are produced consistently and controlled to the quality standards appropriate for their intended use and as required by product specifications or marketing authorization. Annex 11 details the European Medicines Agency (EMA) GMP requirements for computer systems.The purpose of Annex 11 is to provide the EMA healthcare industry with consistent criteria for effective implementation, control, and use of computer systems. EU Annex 11 Guide to Computer Validation Compliance for the Worldwide Health Agency GMP supplies practical information to facilitate compliance with computer system GMP requirements, while highlighting and integrating the Annex 11 guidelines into the computer compliance program.The ideas presented in this book are based on the author’s 25 years of experience with computer validation in the healthcare industry with various computer systems development, maintenance, and quality functions. The book details a practical approach to increase efficiency and to ensure that software development and maintenance are achieved correctly.Examining the implementation of the computer systems validation entirely based on EU Annex 11, the book includes examples from laboratory, clinical, and manufacturing computer systems. It also discusses electronic record integrity associated with stored information.

Read more less

Divided roughly into two sections, this book provides a brief history of the development of ECG along with heart rate variability (HRV) algorithms and the engineering innovations over the last decade in this area. It reviews clinical research, presents an overview of the clinical field, and the importance of heart rate variability in diagnosis. The book then discusses the use of particular ECG and HRV algorithms in the context of clinical applications.

Read more less

Handbook of Visual Optics offers an authoritative overview of encyclopedic knowledge in the field of physiological optics. It builds from fundamental concepts to the science and technology of instruments and practical procedures of vision correction, integrating expert knowledge from physics, medicine, biology, psychology, and engineering. The chapters comprehensively cover all aspects of modern study and practice, from optical principles and optics of the eye and retina to novel ophthalmic tools for imaging and visual testing, devices and techniques for visual correction, and the relationship between ocular optics and visual perception.

Read more less

A companion volume to Ternary Alloys Based on II-VI Semiconductor Compounds (CRC Press, 2013) and Quaternary Alloys Based on II-VI Semiconductor Compounds (CRC Press, 2014), Multinary Alloys Based on II-VI Semiconductors provides up-to-date experimental and theoretical information on phase relations based on II-VI semiconductor systems with five or more components. Featuring detailed figures and extensive references, this book: Delivers a critical evaluation of many industrially important systems presented in the form of two-dimensional sections for the condensed phases Summarizes the data from the last 15–20 years of literature on the study of organometallic compounds, which include zinc, cadmium, or mercury and sulfur, selenium, or tellurium Classifies all materials according to the periodic table groups of their constituent atoms, that is, possible combinations of Zn, Cd, and Hg with chalcogens S, Se, and Te and additional components in the order of their group number Specifies the diagram type, possible phase transformations and physical–chemical interaction of the components, methods of equilibrium investigation, thermodynamic characteristics, and methods for sample preparation in each multinary database description Multinary Alloys Based on II-VI Semiconductors contains valuable material useful for obtaining nanoscale II-VI semiconductors and for preparing thin films of these semiconductor materials, as well as for exploring the biological and medicinal applications of organometallic compounds, and for identifying new compounds with necessary properties.

Read more less

Showcasing the recent progresses of the field, Cyclic Nucleotide Signaling covers the major tools and methodologies used in various areas of research. The majority of the chapters are protocol oriented, with the goal of providing clear directions for laboratory use. Students and investigators new to the field will find this book particularly informative, as will scientists already actively researching nucleotide signaling.

Read more less

Designed for a one-semester course at the junior undergraduate level, Transformational Plane Geometry takes a hands-on, interactive approach to teaching plane geometry. The book is self-contained, defining basic concepts from linear and abstract algebra gradually as needed.The text adheres to the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics Principles and Standards for School Mathematics and the Common Core State Standards Initiative Standards for Mathematical Practice. Future teachers will acquire the skills needed to effectively apply these standards in their classrooms. Following Felix Klein’s Erlangen Program, the book provides students in pure mathematics and students in teacher training programs with a concrete visual alternative to Euclid’s purely axiomatic approach to plane geometry. It enables geometrical visualization in three ways: Key concepts are motivated with exploratory activities using software specifically designed for performing geometrical constructions, such as Geometer’s Sketchpad. Each concept is introduced synthetically (without coordinates) and analytically (with coordinates). Exercises include numerous geometric constructions that use a reflecting instrument, such as a MIRA. After reviewing the essential principles of classical Euclidean geometry, the book covers general transformations of the plane with particular attention to translations, rotations, reflections, stretches, and their compositions. The authors apply these transformations to study congruence, similarity, and symmetry of plane figures and to classify the isometries and similarities of the plane.

Read more less

Renowned for being THE definitive resource for homicide investigators, Practical Homicide Investigation: Tactics, Procedures, and Forensic Techniques details the recognized protocols used by investigative divisions of major police departments throughout the world. The text is used in most police academies, including the FBI Academy in Quantico, Virginia.Now in its fifth edition, the book begins with a comprehensive discussion of homicide crime scenes and moves chronologically from initial police notification, the correct police response that follows, and the subsequent steps necessary to conduct an intelligent investigation. It then delves into the more technical aspects of homicide investigation, augmented with numerous pictures and full-color illustrations that involve pertinent case histories.This latest edition includes three new chapters along with fully revised chapters with new case histories and techniques that reflect the latest forensic methods and modern investigative procedures.Highlights of the Fifth Edition Include: Newly revised "Homicide Investigator’s Checklist" A new chapter on the latest DNA technology A rewritten chapter on equivocal death investigations that includes staged crime scenes Additional information on modes of death Fully updated chapters on death notifications, sex-related homicide, management for police administrators, suicide investigation, and narcotics-related and homosexually based homicides Over 920 photos and illustrations, 250 new photographs, and several new case histories Eminent author, lecturer, consultant, and expert witness Vernon J. Geberth incorporates his more than four and a half decades of real-world law enforcement experience in this quintessential reference. This classic and must-have resource provides the most vital information needed by detectives and police investigators responsible for cases in violent and sudden death.Remember: do it right the first time. You only get one chance.—Vernon J. Geberth, M.S., M.P.S., Homicide and Forensic Consultant, Author of Practical Homicide Investigation, and Series Editor of The Practical Aspects of Criminal and Forensic Investigations

Read more less

Learn Two Popular Programming Languages in a Single VolumeWidely used by scientists and engineers, well-established MATLAB® and open-source Octave are similar software programs providing excellent capabilities for data analysis, visualization, and more. By means of straightforward explanations and examples from different areas in mathematics, engineering, finance, and physics, Essential MATLAB and Octave explains how MATLAB and Octave are powerful tools applicable to a variety of problems. This text provides an introduction that reveals basic structures and syntax, demonstrates the use of functions and procedures, outlines availability in various platforms, and highlights the most important elements for both programs. Effectively Implement Models and Prototypes Using Computational ModelsThis text requires no prior knowledge. Self-contained, it allows the reader to use the material whenever needed rather than follow a particular order. Compatible with both languages, the book material incorporates commands and structures that allow the reader to gain a greater awareness of MATLAB and Octave, write their own code, and implement their scripts and programs within a variety of applicable fields. It is always made clear when particular examples apply only to MATLAB or only to Octave, allowing the book to be used flexibly depending on readers’ requirements. Includes brief, simple code that works in both MATLAB and Octave Provides exercise sections at the end of each chapter Introduces framed examples and discussions with a scientific twist Exercises are provided at the end of each chapter Essential MATLAB and Octave offers an introductory course in MATLAB and Octave programming and is an authoritative resource for students in physics, mathematics, statistics, engineering, and any other subjects that require the use of computers to solve numerical problems.

Read more less

A Comprehensive Review of Developing Environmentally Friendly LubricantsA push from environmentally savvy consumers along with recent changes in governmental regulations have paved the way for a marketplace of products with high levels of environmental performance. Fueled by the growing demand for biobased lubricants, Environmentally Friendly and Biobased Lubricants highlights the development of environmentally friendly additives that are compatible with environmental regulations and describes the approaches being used in this emerging area.Derived from research topics shared over the years at various technical sessions of the Society of Tribologists and Lubrication Engineers (STLE) Annual Meetings, the book includes a critical assessment of gaps and weaknesses in the field of environmentally friendly fluids and biobased lubricants. Each chapter is written by authors selected from the environmentally friendly fluids and biobased lubricants sessions of STLE and also incorporates input from prominent researchers invited to take part in the book. Expert contributors discuss the control, production, usage, and disposal of lubricants; factor in related policies, laws, and regulations around the world; and include case studies demonstrating the uses and values of commercially viable biobased lubricants.The book is divided into five sections that cover advanced environmentally friendly base oils and feedstocks, biobased hydraulic lubricants and biodegradability, chemically/enzymatically modified environmentally friendly base oils, vegetable oil–based environmentally friendly fluids, and additives for environmentally friendly fluids.

Read more less

Scientific evidence accumulated over decades validates the idea that a plant-based dietary pattern, such as the traditional Mediterranean way of eating, promotes health and plays an important role in risk reduction and prevention of several chronic diseases. One of the great advantages of the Mediterranean diet is that it can be easily adopted by other cultures because it is flexible and highly palatable. The Mediterranean Way of Eating: Evidence for Chronic Disease Prevention and Weight Management offers evidence-based information about an enjoyable, healthy way of eating that has stood the test of time, along with practical suggestions for incorporating the Mediterranean diet into your daily life.The first part of the book provides a brief history of the Mediterranean region and its different dietary influences. It discusses shared and unique foods in the coastal regions, and recent influences of processed foods and fast foods. It also presents scientific information on critical nutrients (macronutrients, vitamins, minerals, phytochemicals, antioxidants, and fiber) in foods found in the Mediterranean diets, how they function in the body, and why they are essential to health. The authors review the major chronic diseases, including obesity, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and certain cancers, and examine how a Mediterranean-style diet may help reduce risk or prevent these diseases.The second part of the book addresses the protective effects of foods and food components, discussing how Mediterranean diets may confer health benefits for reducing disease risk and managing weight. It examines the evidence-based health benefits for each of the food groups—such as fruits, vegetables, grains, fish, meat, dairy products, plus alcohol—along with suggestions for using the foods as part of a healthy diet. The last part of the book focuses on how to move toward a Mediterranean-style diet in your own life, eating at home or dining out, offering effective strategies for implementing the dietary changes.

Read more less

Effective measurement of the composition and properties of petroleum is essential for its exploration, production, and refining; however, new technologies and methodologies are not adequately documented in much of the current literature. Analytical Methods in Petroleum Upstream Applications explores advances in the analytical methods and instrumentation that allow more accurate determination of the components, classes of compounds, properties, and features of petroleum and its fractions. Recognized experts explore a host of topics, including: A petroleum molecular composition continuity model as a context for other analytical measurements A modern modular sampling system for use in the lab or the process area to collect and control samples for subsequent analysis The importance of oil-in-water measurements and monitoring The chemical and physical properties of heavy oils, their fractions, and products from their upgrading Analytical measurements using gas chromatography and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) applications Asphaltene and heavy ends analysis Chemometrics and modeling approaches for understanding petroleum composition and properties to improve upstream, midstream, and downstream operations Due to the renaissance of gas and oil production in North America, interest has grown in analytical methods for a wide range of applications. The understanding provided in this text is designed to help chemists, geologists, and chemical and petroleum engineers make more accurate estimates of the crude value to specific refinery configurations, providing insight into optimum development and extraction schemes.

Read more less

Learn How to Implement Safety Codes and Regulations EffectivelyA number of electrical fatalities and injuries that occur each year can be overcome by a thorough understanding of electrical concepts. Yet due to the complexity of regulatory requirements, many safety professionals may not be fully equipped to handle the task. Electrical Safety: Systems, Sustainability, and Stewardship addresses the problem by simplifying the knowledge acquisition process, and arming safety professionals with the tools needed to successfully meet safety and efficacy goals. From power generation facility to electrical device, this text combines knowledge of industry standards, regulations, and real-world experience to provide a detailed explanation of electrical power generation, transmittal, and use. Explains the Concepts behind Electric CodeThe book introduces the basic sustainability and stewardship concepts inherent to reliability centered maintenance (RCM). It explains how these concepts apply to the components of an electrical system (the concepts can be used when auditing for electrical safety, training on electrical safety, and overseeing an upgrade or extension of a building's electrical system). In addition, it addresses general electrical safety, electromagnetic field shields, ohm/resistance study criteria, arc flash hazard analysis, and hazardous energy control. The authors outline OSHA requirements and the reasons for those requirements, and explain the implementation exigencies. This book: Describes power generation, transmittal, and usage Contains regulatory summaries from the OSHA electrical safety standards Presents the various types of electrical studies including arc flash, electromagnetic field, and ohm resistance investigations Discusses earthing grounds and overcurrent devices as overall components of electrical control and safety Offers an up-to-date discussions of arc flash criteria and evaluation needs that are linked to general electrical safety and grounding requirements Considers electromagnetic field physics, measurement, and control alternatives Electrical Safety: Systems, Sustainability, and Stewardship provides a step-by-step dialogue of the OSHA requirements and more importantly the reasons for those requirements. Describing electrical use within industrial settings, and presenting a ground approach to understanding how electrical power is used, this book lays down the ground work for making important decisions.

Read more less

Explore the Relationship between Crop and ClimateAgricultural sustainability has been gaining prominence in recent years and is now becoming the focal point of modern agriculture. Recognizing that crop production is very sensitive to climate change, Climate Change Effect on Crop Productivity explores this timely topic in-depth. Incorporating contributions by expert scientists, professors, and researchers from around the world, it emphasizes concerns about the current state of agriculture and of our environment. This text analyzes the global consequences to crop yields, production, and risk of hunger linking climate and socioeconomic scenarios.Addresses Biotechnology, Climate Change, and Plant ProductivityThe book contains 19 chapters covering issues such as CO2, ozone on plants, productivity fertilization effect, UV (ultraviolet) radiation, temperature, and stress on crop growth. The text discusses the impact of changing climate on agriculture, environment stress physiology, adaptation mechanism, climate change data of recent years, impact of global warming, and climate change on different crops. It explores the overall global picture in terms of the effect of crops to climate change during abiotic stress and considers strategies for offsetting and adapting to ongoing climate change. Details how and why climate change occurs and how it effects crop productivity and agriculture Considers what measures should be taken to mitigate the effect of climate change on agriculture Highlights the effect of climate change on crop productivity, the invention of new technology, and strategies for agriculture practice to adapt to climate change Provides an analysis of the global warming effect on crop productivity due to climate change and long-term agriculture technique development Confirms the asymmetry between potentially severe agricultural damages such as the effect on crop yield due to variation in temperature Reports on the results of experiments to assess the effects of global climate change on crop productivity An asset to agriculturists, environmentalists, climate change specialists, policy makers, and research scholars, Climate Change Effect on Crop Productivity provides relevant information and opportunities for productive engagement and discussion among government negotiators, experts, stakeholders, and others concerned about climate change and agriculture.

Read more less

Examining the current literature, research, and relevant case studies, presented by a team of international experts, the Urban Water Reuse Handbook discusses the pros and cons of water reuse and explores new and alternative methods for obtaining a sustainable water supply. The book defines water reuse guidelines, describes the historical and current development of water reuse, and includes previously implemented methodologies and practices relevant to urban wastewater treatment. It considers the sustainability of water resources and supply systems in both urban and rural areas. The book discusses the advantages of water reuse (reduced water consumption, cost-savings, a secure groundwater replenishment source, and a long-term water supply) and outlines the disadvantages (a build-up of chemical pollutants in the soil, the probable contamination of groundwater attributed to reclaimed water, and possible human health risks related to the presence of viruses and bacteria). It also proposes ethical and cultural considerations, discusses the economic and environmental performance of water systems relevant to water reuse, and outlines associated methods and strategies that can address problems of water scarcity.In addition, this handbook addresses: Constructed wetlands in surrounding urban areas Water reuse in specific regions, coastal areas, cold regions, arid zones Application of wastewater for hydroelectric power generation Traditional systems of water reuse Combining harvesting systems and water reuse structures Warning systems for wastewater access control Public participation and implementation issues Groundwater recharge by unconventional water Urban water reuse policy A resourceful guide dedicated to the reuse of urban wastewater, the Urban Water Reuse Handbook focuses on wastewater treatment, recycling, and reuse for the conservation of water resources. This book serves as a reference for water resource engineers, urban hydrologists, and planning professionals; for water/wastewater engineers, students, policy makers, and researchers.

Read more less

Electrochemical Energy: Advanced Materials and Technologies covers the development of advanced materials and technologies for electrochemical energy conversion and storage. The book was created by participants of the International Conference on Electrochemical Materials and Technologies for Clean Sustainable Energy (ICES-2013) held in Guangzhou, China, and incorporates select papers presented at the conference.More than 300 attendees from across the globe participated in ICES-2013 and gave presentations in six major themes: Fuel cells and hydrogen energy Lithium batteries and advanced secondary batteries Green energy for a clean environment Photo-Electrocatalysis Supercapacitors Electrochemical clean energy applications and markets Comprised of eight sections, this book includes 25 chapters featuring highlights from the conference and covering every facet of synthesis, characterization, and performance evaluation of the advanced materials for electrochemical energy. It thoroughly describes electrochemical energy conversion and storage technologies such as batteries, fuel cells, supercapacitors, hydrogen generation, and their associated materials. The book contains a number of topics that include electrochemical processes, materials, components, assembly and manufacturing, and degradation mechanisms. It also addresses challenges related to cost and performance, provides varying perspectives, and emphasizes existing and emerging solutions.The result of a conference encouraging enhanced research collaboration among members of the electrochemical energy community, Electrochemical Energy: Advanced Materials and Technologies is dedicated to the development of advanced materials and technologies for electrochemical energy conversion and storage and details the technologies, current achievements, and future directions in the field.

Read more less

Published in association with the European Society of Medical Oncology, this book is designed for trainee oncologists, oncology nurses, and those working with cancer patients on a day-to-day basis. Using an accessible writing style suitable for a wide audience of caregivers, the book focuses on the "soft skills" required in communicating with patients. Topics include the aetiology of cancer, diagnosis and staging, and explaining the purpose of treatment, including chemotherapy, hormone treatment, and immunological and gene-based therapies. The book also discusses patient support groups, monitoring remission, and relapse. Communicating with Cancer Patients is written by UK oncologists but has wide international application.

Read more less

As the generic pharmaceutical industry continues to grow and thrive, so does the need to conduct adequate, efficient bioequivalence studies. In recent years, there have been significant changes to the statistical models for evaluating bioequivalence. In addition, advances in the analytical technology used to detect drug and metabolite levels have made bioequivalence testing more complex. The second edition of Handbook of Bioequivalence Testing has been completely updated to include the most current information available, including new findings in drug delivery and dosage form design and revised worldwide regulatory requirements.New topics include: A historical perspective on generic pharmaceuticals New guidelines governing submissions related to bioequivalency studies, along with therapeutic code classifications Models of noninferiority Biosimilarity of large molecule drugs Bioequivalence of complementary and alternate medicines Bioequivalence of biosimilar therapeutic proteins and monoclonal antibodies New FDA guidelines for bioanalytical method validation Outsourcing and monitoring of bioequivalence studies The cost of generic drugs is rising much faster than in the past, partly because of the increased costs required for approval—including those for bioequivalence testing. There is a dire need to re-examine the science behind this type of testing to reduce the burden of development costs—allowing companies to develop generic drugs faster and at a lower expense. The final chapter explores the future of bioequivalence testing and proposes radical changes in the process of biowaivers. It suggests how the cost of demonstrating bioequivalence can be reduced through intensive analytical investigation and proposes that regulatory agencies reduce the need for bioequivalence studies in humans. Backed by science and updated with the latest research, this book is destined to spark continued debate on the efficacy of the current bioequivalence testing paradigm.

Read more less

Simulation is a widely used mechanism for validating the theoretical models of networking and communication systems. Although the claims made based on simulations are considered to be reliable, how reliable they really are is best determined with real-world implementation trials.Simulation Technologies in Networking and Communications: Selecting the Best Tool for the Test addresses the spectrum of issues regarding the different mechanisms related to simulation technologies in networking and communications fields. Focusing on the practice of simulation testing instead of the theory, it presents the work of more than 50 experts from around the world. Considers superefficient Monte Carlo simulations Describes how to simulate and evaluate multicast routing algorithms Covers simulation tools for cloud computing and broadband passive optical networks Reports on recent developments in simulation tools for WSNs Examines modeling and simulation of vehicular networks The book compiles expert perspectives about the simulation of various networking and communications technologies. These experts review and evaluate popular simulation modeling tools and recommend the best tools for your specific tests. They also explain how to determine when theoretical modeling would be preferred over simulation.This book does not provide a verdict on the best suitable tool for simulation. Instead, it supplies authoritative analyses of the different kinds of networks and systems. Presenting best practices and insights from global experts, the book provides you with an understanding of what to simulate, where to simulate, whether to simulate or not, when to simulate, and how to simulate for a wide range of issues.

Read more less

Contains over 200 cases, covering every type of canine infectious diseaseFeatures international contributorsSupplies the perfect companion to Self-assessment Color Review of Feline Infectious Diseases. This book covers all types of canine infectious diseases, including infections caused by viruses, bacteria, parasites and fungi. Over 200 clinical cases are presented randomly, as in practice, and cover the range of infectious diseases which affect all the organ systems of the dog. Featuring international expert contributors, the illustrated cases contain integrated questions and detailed explanatory answers.

Read more less

This book presents insights, interpretations, concepts, and interdependent views—in the landscape of mobile connectivity and service—that emphasize the significance of a harmonious interplay, cooperation, and coalescing of a variety of interdisciplinary domains of science and art.Mobile Evolution: Insights on Connectivity and Service explores the forward-looking and enabling capabilities of mobile connectivity and service in the context of long term evolution (LTE) systems and multimedia services, as viewed through a lens of human experience. It provides information and guidelines pertaining to the strategies and technologies associated with the next-generation mobile ecosystem.The book examines the intersection between the technology and the human dimension in the context of the ever-changing landscape. It arms you with ideas that you can apply to design, innovation, strategy, and business models for the various facets of mobile communication connectivity and service.

Read more less

Metamaterials: Beyond Crystals, Noncrystals, and Quasicrystals is a comprehensive and updated research monograph that focuses on recent advances in metamaterials based on the effective medium theory in microwave frequencies. Most of these procedures were conducted in the State Key Laboratory of Millimeter Waves, Southeast University, China.The book conveys the essential concept of metamaterials from the microcosmic structure to the macroscopic electromagnetic properties and helps readers quickly obtain needed skills in creating new devices at microwave frequencies using metamaterials. The authors present the latest progress on metamaterials and transformation optics and provide abundant examples of metamaterial-based devices accompanied with detailed procedures to simulate, fabricate, and measure them.Comprised of ten chapters, the book comprehensively covers both the fundamentals and the applications of metamaterials. Along with an introduction to the subject, the first three chapters discuss effective medium theory and artificial particles. The next three chapters cover homogeneous metamaterials (super crystals), random metamaterials (super noncrystals), and inhomogeneous metamaterials (super quasicrystals). The final four chapters examine gradient-index inhomogeneous metamaterials, nearly isotropic inhomogeneous metamaterials, and anisotropic inhomogeneous metamaterials, after which the authors provide their conclusions and closing remarks. The book is completely self-contained, making it easy to follow.

Read more less

Implement Your Own Applications Using Online GISAn in-depth study detailing the online applications of geographic information systems (GIS), Online GIS and Spatial Metadata, Second Edition outlines how GIS data are published, organized, accessed, searched, maintained, purchased, and processed over the web. This latest work describes how the internet has become a platform for the delivery and integration of geographic information. It highlights the growth that has taken place since the first edition and includes new chapters on popular XML formats used in online GIS, SDI Metadata Portals, Mobile GIS and Location-Based services. It also updates metadata standards and explains how metadata links it all together.Designed To Help Non-Technical Readers Understand Technical IssuesThe book provides a brief overview of the basic technology of online GIS before introducing the technical methods used to develop and implement GIS on the web. It includes an introduction to the protocols and standards now in use online and provides technical background and real-world examples of scripts, markup, and other elements that make this technology work. Expanding on the previous edition, the book offers a global perspective of online GIS, contains links and references to online resources, and includes future directions, applications, and trends.Reviewing major advances that have occurred over the past decade, this seminal work: Discusses the detail of four XML-based standards now in common use for Online GIS and spatial metadata Outlines the nature of Information Networks, systems in which information is distributed across many different sites Examines the conceptual framework of metadata, by studying the RDF and similar standards for the Web Describes several metadata standards in use around the world for spatial metadata Provides current examples of SDI metadata portals, catalogues, and clearinghouses Looks at ways in which distributed information can be built into data warehouses, and introduces basic ideas in data mining

Read more less

Advanced Separations by Specialized Sorbents opens a new window into sorbent materials, presenting fundamental principles for their syntheses and adsorption properties. The book presents advanced techniques used to create specialized sorbents with a wide range of functions that can be used to enhance the separation and/or purification of useful bioactive compounds, heavy metals, dyes, and other substances. It discusses the most recent developments in the field of separation processes, covering specialized sorbents such as monolith cryogels, composite hydrogels, metal-impregnated ion exchangers, and molecularly imprinted polymers. The book provides a comprehensive discussion of the selectivity in separation processes by composite materials based on synthetic polymers/biopolymers and inorganic particles. It is a comprehensive resource for academic and research scientists as well as students interested in the preparation, characterization, and application of specialized sorbents.

Read more less

The growing interest in using combination drugs to treat various complex diseases has spawned the development of many novel statistical methodologies. The theoretical development, coupled with advances in statistical computing, makes it possible to apply these emerging statistical methods in in vitro and in vivo drug combination assessments. However, despite these advances, no book has served as a single source of information for statistical methods in drug combination research, nor has there been any guidance for experimental strategies.Statistical Methods in Drug Combination Studies fills that gap, covering all aspects of drug combination research, from designing in vitro drug combination studies to analyzing clinical trial data. Featuring contributions from researchers in industry, academia, and regulatory agencies, this comprehensive reference: Describes statistical models used to characterize dose–response patterns of monotherapies and evaluate the combination drug synergy Offers guidance for estimating interaction indices and constructing their associated confidence intervals to assess drug interaction Introduces a practical and innovative Bayesian approach to Phase I cancer trials, including actual trial examples to illustrate use Examines strategies in the fixed-dose combination therapy clinical development via case studies stemming from regulatory reviews Evaluates computational tools and software packages used to apply novel statistical methods in combination drug development Statistical Methods in Drug Combination Studies provides researchers with a solid understanding of the available statistical methods and computational tools and how to apply them in drug combination studies. The book is equally useful for statisticians to become better equipped to deal with drug combination study design and analysis in their practice.

Read more less

CRC Materials Science and Engineering Handbook provides a convenient, single-volume source for physical and chemical property data on a wide range of engineering materials. As with the first three editions, this Fourth Edition contains information verified by major professional associations such as ASM International and the American Ceramic Society (ACerS). Patterned after the iconic CRC Handbook of Chemistry and Physics, this edition also: Offers a more streamlined presentation organized by categories of traditional and advanced materials Converts chemical and physical property data from US customary units to SI units, improving the handbook’s usefulness on a global scale Expands coverage to include the latest material property data on low-dimensional carbons, two-dimensional (2D) nanomaterials, MAX phases, and amorphous metals Featuring extensive references to contemporary research literature, CRC Materials Science and Engineering Handbook, Fourth Edition is an ideal starting point for scientists and engineers making, selecting, or evaluating materials.

Read more less

With nearly 7 billion mobile phone subscriptions worldwide, mobility and computing have become pervasive in our society and business. Moreover, new mobile multimedia communication services are challenging telecommunication operators. To support the significant increase in multimedia traffic—especially video—over wireless networks, new technological infrastructure must be created. Cognitive Radio Networks (CRNs) are widely regarded as one of the most promising technologies for future wireless communications. This book explains how to efficiently deliver video, audio, and other data over CRNs.Covering advanced algorithms, protocols, and hardware-/software-based experiments, this book describes how to encode video in a prioritized way to send to dynamic radio links. It discusses different FEC codes for video reliability and explains how different machine learning algorithms can be used for video quality control. It also explains how to use readily available software tools to build a CRN simulation model. This book explains both theoretical and experimental designs. It describes how universal software radio peripheral (USRP) boards can be used for real-time, high-resolution video transmission. It also discusses how a USRP board can sense the spectrum dynamics and how it can be controlled by GNU Radio software. A separate chapter discusses how the network simulator ns-2 can be used to build a simulated CRN platform.

Read more less

An in-depth overview of the emerging concept; Mobile Health (mHealth), mHealth Multidisciplinary Verticals links applications and technologies to key market and vendor players. It also highlights interdependencies and synergies between various stakeholders which drive the research forces behind mHealth. The book explores the trends and directions where this vertical market is headed. Divided into nine sections, the book covers a number of multidisciplinary verticals within the field of mHealth such as: Preventive and curative medicineConsumer and patient-centric approachesPsychological, behavioral, and mental verticalsSocial perspectivesEducation, adoption, and acceptanceAged care and the aging populationRegional, geographical, and public-health perspectivesTechnology implicationsCloud applicationsThe book collates emerging and diverse mHealth applications into a single resource. The result of extensive research, the book is a collaborative effort between experts from more than 20 countries, who have been carefully reviewed and selected by the team of reviewers. It takes a multidisciplinary approach to health informatics and provides a roadmap to current and future directions of mHealth.

Read more less

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease is one of the most common liver diseases worldwide affecting patients from all ages, races, and ethnic backgrounds. It comprises a spectrum of hepatic pathology ranging from simple steatosis, in which there is an increase of fat accumulation in hepatocytes, to nonalcoholic steatohepatitis and cirrhosis. The significant prevalence of this disease—between 15 and 45 percent of the general population—means that it contributes to an increased burden of ill health both today and in the future.Liver Metabolism and Fatty Liver Disease addresses the current understanding of the development of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease as well as the clinical aspects of the disease by examining the current knowledge surrounding metabolism in the liver. The book discusses various topics including the involvement of oxidative stress, metabolic effects, and inflammation as well as the effect of nutrition on the development and progression of the disease.

Read more less

Damselfishes (Pomacentridae) are highly conspicuous, diurnal inhabitants of mainly reef areas, capturing the attention of many scientists. Their high diversity and the many interesting characteristics dealing with their way of life (sound production, breeding biology, sex change, farming and gregarious behavior, settlement, diet, habitat) easily explain how this group is continually kept in the limelight and is the subject of numerous studies. This book gathers the data dealing with damselfish morphology, physiology, behavior, ecology and phylogeny.It contains 14 chapters written by renowned scientists.

Read more less

Recent advances in fish cytogenetics have enhanced the interest in chromosome analysis in both fundamental (systematics and comparative genomics among fishes and other vertebrate groups) and applied (aquaculture, conservation and response to pollutants, whole genome sequencing of model fish species) research. Although the genomic material, the chromosomes, is basically the same in the various organisms, experience has clearly shown that fish chromosomes have to be handled with specific protocols. In laboratories around the world, traditional cytogenetic techniques and molecular cytogenetics have seen a vast improvement but the technical details and protocols are often not published in scientific journals because of constraints in format and size and therefore they are not accessible to the whole scientific community. These shortcomings are very well known to fish cytogeneticists and the idea to prepare a specific manual was first discussed during the first "Workshop of Fish Cytogenetics" held in Concarneau (France), in 1992. Resulting from the above workshop, a draft compilation of the techniques and protocols in fish cytogenetics available at that time had been produced and distributed privately, but never published. There does not exist, at present, any published handbook or manual specifically dealing with fish cytogenetics.This book fills this void by bringing together and updating the main techniques so that the traditional methods can be standardized. Moreover, this book includes novel developments or improvements; some of the protocols provided here are practically unknown to the scientific community and even now unpublished.

Read more less