Search results for ""world scientific europe ltd""

The juxtaposition of 'machine learning' and 'pure mathematics and theoretical physics' may first appear as contradictory in terms. The rigours of proofs and derivations in the latter seem to reside in a different world from the randomness of data and statistics in the former. Yet, an often under-appreciated component of mathematical discovery, typically not presented in a final draft, is experimentation: both with ideas and with mathematical data. Think of the teenage Gauss, who conjectured the Prime Number Theorem by plotting the prime-counting function, many decades before complex analysis was formalized to offer a proof.Can modern technology in part mimic Gauss's intuition? The past five years saw an explosion of activity in using AI to assist the human mind in uncovering new mathematics: finding patterns, accelerating computations, and raising conjectures via the machine learning of pure, noiseless data. The aim of this book, a first of its kind, is to collect research and survey articles from experts in this emerging dialogue between theoretical mathematics and machine learning. It does not dwell on the well-known multitude of mathematical techniques in deep learning, but focuses on the reverse relationship: how machine learning helps with mathematics. Taking a panoramic approach, the topics range from combinatorics to number theory, and from geometry to quantum field theory and string theory. Aimed at PhD students as well as seasoned researchers, each self-contained chapter offers a glimpse of an exciting future of this symbiosis.

Read more less

Second Edition: Solar Power Finance Without the JargonSolar power has become big business, with $131 billion invested in 2018, up from just $11.2 billion in 2004 but down from $171 billion in 2017 as unit costs fell. New installed capacity grew from 1.1GW in 2004 to about 107GW in 2018, a steady rise as solar begins to compete with fossil fuels on cost and to be built in nearly every country.This is a book for the solar workers of the future, a business book for those without a business or economics background and those simply curious about major shifts happening in the world energy economy. Key financial, economic and technical concepts are interspersed with the history of the first decade of cheap solar power, and the author's experience of being part of a successful startup in the clean energy sector.Related Link(s)

Read more less

'Several features make this book unusual. The first is the historical content … Second, the practical importance of quantum physics is demonstrated by the inclusion of numerous summary discussions of technological applications … A third unusual feature of this book is a detailed solution immediately following each in-text exercise. Each such problem is used to advance the discussion, and the question-and-answer format encourages the student to wrestle with the ideas personally rather than simply reading passively … This short book would easily make a helpful secondary text allowing an instructor to touch on some non-traditional topics such as least action principles and path integrals.'Contemporary PhysicsBridging the gap between traditional books on quantum and statistical physics, this series is an ideal introductory course for students who are looking for an alternative approach to the traditional academic treatment.This pedagogical approach relies heavily on scientific or technological applications from a wide range of fields. For every new concept introduced, an application is given to connect the theoretical results to a real-life situation. Each volume features in-text exercises and detailed solutions, with easy-to-understand applications.This first volume sets the scene of a new physics. It explains where quantum mechanics come from, its connection to classical physics and why it was needed at the beginning of the twentieth century. It examines how very simple models can explain a variety of applications such as quantum wells, thermoluminescence dating, scanning tunnel microscopes, quantum cryptography, masers, and how fluorescence can unveil the past of art pieces.

Read more less

Modern Mathematical Methods for Scientists and Engineers is a modern introduction to basic topics in mathematics at the undergraduate level, with emphasis on explanations and applications to real-life problems. There is also an 'Application' section at the end of each chapter, with topics drawn from a variety of areas, including neural networks, fluid dynamics, and the behavior of 'put' and 'call' options in financial markets. The book presents several modern important and computationally efficient topics, including feedforward neural networks, wavelets, generalized functions, stochastic optimization methods, and numerical methods.A unique and novel feature of the book is the introduction of a recently developed method for solving partial differential equations (PDEs), called the unified transform. PDEs are the mathematical cornerstone for describing an astonishingly wide range of phenomena, from quantum mechanics to ocean waves, to the diffusion of heat in matter and the behavior of financial markets. Despite the efforts of many famous mathematicians, physicists and engineers, the solution of partial differential equations remains a challenge.The unified transform greatly facilitates this task. For example, two and a half centuries after Jean d'Alembert formulated the wave equation and presented a solution for solving a simple problem for this equation, the unified transform derives in a simple manner a generalization of the d'Alembert solution, valid for general boundary value problems. Moreover, two centuries after Joseph Fourier introduced the classical tool of the Fourier series for solving the heat equation, the unified transform constructs a new solution to this ubiquitous PDE, with important analytical and numerical advantages in comparison to the classical solutions. The authors present the unified transform pedagogically, building all the necessary background, including functions of real and of complex variables and the Fourier transform, illustrating the method with numerous examples.Broad in scope, but pedagogical in style and content, the book is an introduction to powerful mathematical concepts and modern tools for students in science and engineering.

Read more less

Prominent scientists and philosophers of science address contemporary debates on the nature of Time. Their contributions freely discuss its unity and reality, its compatibility with the orders of classical philosophy (present, past and future) and with the disputed idea of free will (Volume 1). They also present a detailed and updated state of the role of Time in the so-called exact sciences: biology — or more precisely genetics, evolution, neurosciences, natural and artificial intelligence (Volume 2) , and physics — relativity, quantum mechanics and quantum gravity, and cosmology (Volume 3).

Read more less

Based on notes written during the author's many years of teaching, Analysis in Euclidean Space mainly covers Differentiation and Integration theory in several real variables, but also an array of closely related areas including measure theory, differential geometry, classical theory of curves, geometric measure theory, integral geometry, and others.With several original results, new approaches and an emphasis on concepts and rigorous proofs, the book is suitable for undergraduate students, particularly in mathematics and physics, who are interested in acquiring a solid footing in analysis and expanding their background. There are many examples and exercises inserted in the text for the student to work through independently.Analysis in Euclidean Space comprises 21 chapters, each with an introduction summarizing its contents, and an additional chapter containing miscellaneous exercises. Lecturers may use the varied chapters of this book for different undergraduate courses in analysis. The only prerequisites are a basic course in linear algebra and a standard first-year calculus course in differentiation and integration. As the book progresses, the difficulty increases such that some of the later sections may be appropriate for graduate study.

Read more less

It is widely accepted that innovation holds the key to sustainable commercial growth globally, but in practice there is limited understanding of how to successfully exploit its full commercial and social value. The Scale-up Manual provides a unified approach to manage the creation and commercialisation of innovative products and services, enabled by four data-driven building blocks: the Triple Chasm Model, modified commercialisation readiness levels, meso-economic vectors and the commercialisation canvas. The approach supports different strategies for resource allocation, ranging from 'lean' techniques to sustainability initiatives based on the circular economy. The Manual includes many case studies and insights, which different 'Actors' can use at different points along the commercialisation journey.Related Link(s)

Read more less

This video-augmented book explains how the natural movements of the sun, wind and rain can be used to improve the well-being of people in buildings and raise awareness of sustainable living practices. In demonstrating how buildings can be designed to reconcile their traditional role as shelter from the elements with the active inclusion of their movement, the book shows how, in the process of separating us from the extremes of the natural world, architecture can also be a means of reconnecting us with nature.Related Link(s)

Read more less

The Practical Philosophy of AI-Assistants presents a formal conversation between an AI engineer, Peter, and a humanities researcher, Suman. The book ensures that specialist concepts in AI research are made comprehensible to a humanities researcher, while humanities theories can be easily grasped by an AI engineer.The authors establish ground rules to design an AI-Assistant, that is, an AI system that could act as a personal friend, consultant and confidante for every individual, to be integrated into our daily lives. These rules apply to four large areas of AI development: recognition and identification, communication, explanation, and civility.In discussing these areas, this book provides an accessible account of the current state of AI research, as well as adding nuance to the underpinning assumptions informing the relevant technologies, reflecting on their social implications.The broader ideological objective of The Practical Philosophy of AI-Assistants is captured by the phrase 'practical philosophy', which expresses a commitment to bringing AI development to work towards a good life for all.

Read more less

Today's physics has led to incredible advances in the technology we use in daily life — from cell phones and GPS systems to PET scans and more. Current theories in physics have been amazingly effective in practical terms. Yet all is far from well: the two foundational concepts in physics — Quantum Theory and General Relativity — are incompatible with each other, and observations of the universe show that our theories are incomplete — at best.While physicists have tried to paper over this impasse by inventing dark matter and dark energy, they remain unobserved mysteries. Adding fuel to the fire of current crises, artificial intelligence threatens to replace our most cherished theories and procedures with arcane algorithms. Worse yet perhaps, the public understands physics poorly, either taking it for granted or fearing and rejecting it completely.Physicists dream of a new universal theory that will completely change how we see our world, much as Einstein did with relativity and Newton with gravity. Likewise, society loves the romantic notion of a single genius heroically creating a massive paradigm shift. Still, is this scenario likely today? Perhaps the next steps in physics will be incremental rather than gigantic.In Physics in Crisis, Bruno Mansoulié uses simple language, insightful examples, and his personal experience as a working physicist to address these fundamental questions and reflect on how today's crises in physics might be solved.

Read more less

Alfred North Whitehead (1861-1947), a mathematician and logician by training, was the author of highly original works at the crossroads of science and philosophy which explore the nature of the world around us and its temporal flow.Convinced that everyday terms distort reality, Whitehead invented or borrowed terms more appropriate to his project. The word 'Process', which gives its title to his most famous work Process and Reality (1929), is central to his thinking. Process introduces his vision of nature as a succession of crystallizations, each of which proves the finite granularity of time: the instant does not exist. It also implies a confrontation with the theory of relativity and quantum physics. Whitehead's perspective allows for the occurrence of creative novelties, but necessitates that the world cooperates with a deity, the role of which is examined in this book's last chapter.In Alfred North Whitehead, Philosopher of Time, the author mixes biographical elements with intellectual advances, from logicism to philosophies of nature. A compelling introduction to Whitehead's demanding work, this book deciphers a metaphysical landscape often considered too abstract to be approachable, but points out the philosopher's imperfections with respect to the scientific advances of our time.

Read more less

Modern Mathematical Methods for Scientists and Engineers is a modern introduction to basic topics in mathematics at the undergraduate level, with emphasis on explanations and applications to real-life problems. There is also an 'Application' section at the end of each chapter, with topics drawn from a variety of areas, including neural networks, fluid dynamics, and the behavior of 'put' and 'call' options in financial markets. The book presents several modern important and computationally efficient topics, including feedforward neural networks, wavelets, generalized functions, stochastic optimization methods, and numerical methods.A unique and novel feature of the book is the introduction of a recently developed method for solving partial differential equations (PDEs), called the unified transform. PDEs are the mathematical cornerstone for describing an astonishingly wide range of phenomena, from quantum mechanics to ocean waves, to the diffusion of heat in matter and the behavior of financial markets. Despite the efforts of many famous mathematicians, physicists and engineers, the solution of partial differential equations remains a challenge.The unified transform greatly facilitates this task. For example, two and a half centuries after Jean d'Alembert formulated the wave equation and presented a solution for solving a simple problem for this equation, the unified transform derives in a simple manner a generalization of the d'Alembert solution, valid for general boundary value problems. Moreover, two centuries after Joseph Fourier introduced the classical tool of the Fourier series for solving the heat equation, the unified transform constructs a new solution to this ubiquitous PDE, with important analytical and numerical advantages in comparison to the classical solutions. The authors present the unified transform pedagogically, building all the necessary background, including functions of real and of complex variables and the Fourier transform, illustrating the method with numerous examples.Broad in scope, but pedagogical in style and content, the book is an introduction to powerful mathematical concepts and modern tools for students in science and engineering.

Read more less

Mathematical Methods and Models in Composites (Second Edition) provides an in-depth treatment of modern and rigorous mathematical methods and models applied to composites modeling on the micro-, meso-, and macro scale. There has been a steady growth in the diversity of such methods and models that are used in the analysis and characterization of composites, their behavior, and their associated phenomena and processes. This second edition expands upon the success of the first edition, and has been substantially revised and updated.Written by well-known experts in different areas of applied mathematics, physics, and composite engineering, this book is mainly focused on continuous fiber reinforced composites and their ever increasing range of applications (for example, in the aerospace industry), though it also covers other kind of composites. The chapters cover a range of topics including, but not limited to: scaling and homogenization procedures in composites, thin plate and wave solutions in anisotropic materials, laminated structures, fiber-reinforced nonlinearly elastic solids, buckling and postbuckling, fracture and damage analysis of composites, and highly efficient methods for simulation of composites manufacturing such as resin transfer molding. The results presented are useful for the design, fabrication, testing and industrial applications of composite components and structures.This book is an essential reference for graduate and doctoral students, as well as researchers in mathematics, physics and composite engineering. Explanations and references in the book are sufficiently detailed so as to provide the necessary background to further investigate the fascinating subject of composites modeling and explore relevant research literature. It is also suitable for non-experts who wish to have an overview of the mathematical methods and models used for composites, and of the open problems in this area that require further research.

Read more less

The book provides the reader with an overview of the actual state of research in ordinary and partial differential equations in the complex domain. Topics include summability and asymptotic study of both ordinary and partial differential equations, and also q-difference and differential-difference equations. This book will be of interest to researchers and students who wish to expand their knowledge of these fields.With the latest results and research developments and contributions from experts in their field, Formal and Analytic Solutions of Differential Equations provides a valuable contribution to methods, techniques, different mathematical tools, and study calculations.

Read more less

Artificial Intelligence and Innovation Management contributes to the ongoing debate among innovation scholars and practitioners focusing on the potential impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on the ways companies and organizations do business, operate and innovate. It considers AI as a source of innovation both in terms of innovation within the field of AI itself (AI innovation) and in terms of how it enables or disrupts innovation in other fields (AI-driven innovation). The book's content is driven by several important conclusions:It is therefore both necessary and timely to explore the different aspects of the relationship between AI and IM.The contributors to this book include both scholars and practitioners from multiple countries and different types of institutions. They were selected based on their ability to provide a relevant distinctive perspective on the relationship between AI and IM; the degree of their professional engagement with the field; their ability to contribute to the thematic and contextual diversity of the contributions; and their ability to provide actionable insights for both innovation scholars and practitioners.Helena Blackbright (Mälardalen University, Sweden) and Stoyan Tanev (Carleton University, Canada) are chairing the Special Interest Group on AI and IM at the International Society for Professional Innovation Management (https://www.ispim-innovation.com/).

Read more less

Specialists from around the world have contributed to this unique textbook on the surgical skills essential for the urgent treatment of craniofacial injuries caused by war and terrorist incidents. It explores a wide range of considerations including how to work with limited resources and logistical problems, preparation for terror attacks, preservation of sight and cosmetic appearance, and also features a simulation training module proven to be academically successful and economical to run. The content is ideal for all nonspecialist clinicians and students of medicine, dentistry and nursing, and also for teaching programmes involving the psychopathology of trauma.

Read more less

In today's world, we are increasingly exposed to the words 'machine learning' (ML), a term which sounds like a panacea designed to cure all problems ranging from image recognition to machine language translation. Over the past few years, ML has gradually permeated the financial sector, reshaping the landscape of quantitative finance as we know it.An Introduction to Machine Learning in Quantitative Finance aims to demystify ML by uncovering its underlying mathematics and showing how to apply ML methods to real-world financial data. In this book the authorsFeatured with the balance of mathematical theorems and practical code examples of ML, this book will help you acquire an in-depth understanding of ML algorithms as well as hands-on experience. After reading An Introduction to Machine Learning in Quantitative Finance, ML tools will not be a black box to you anymore, and you will feel confident in successfully applying what you have learnt to empirical financial data!The Python codes contained within An Introduction to Machine Learning in Quantitative Finance have been made publicly available on the author's GitHub: https://github.com/deepintomlf/mlfbook.git

Read more less

'The test cases are particularly variable, including pertinent management tips in the answers. The book also contains a set of useful self-assessment questions. Being pedantic, this could now benefit from an increase in the proportion of 'Single Best Answer Questions', now ubiquitous in undergraduate assessment. This will continue to be on my local recommended reading list, particularly for those students wanting a thorough understanding of Haematology, from the laboratory through to basic management. It would also be a good text for those starting a career in Haematology, such as Physician Associates and doctors early in their training.'British Journal of HaematologyThis second edition of Haematology: A Core Curriculum is written by a haematologist with more than forty-five years of experience in teaching haematology to medical students and whose pedagogical and writing skills are widely admired within the field.The textbook takes a useful, practical approach, incorporating self-evaluation questions and learning objectives that give students the information needed to understand the topic and clear indications of the core knowledge required to progress within the field of haematology. Themes covered include clinical haematology and the scientific basis of the discipline and the causes and pathogenesis of haematological disorders as well as how conditions are diagnosed and treated.Haematology closely follows the Imperial College London curriculum but medical students, trainee nurses and biomedical science students from other institutions will find the textbook equally suitable, since it includes the core student haematology curriculum as recommended by the Royal College of Pathologists.Related Link(s)

Read more less

This book discusses the interplay of stochastics (applied probability theory) and numerical analysis in the field of quantitative finance. The stochastic models, numerical valuation techniques, computational aspects, financial products, and risk management applications presented will enable readers to progress in the challenging field of computational finance.When the behavior of financial market participants changes, the corresponding stochastic mathematical models describing the prices may also change. Financial regulation may play a role in such changes too. The book thus presents several models for stock prices, interest rates as well as foreign-exchange rates, with increasing complexity across the chapters. As is said in the industry, 'do not fall in love with your favorite model.' The book covers equity models before moving to short-rate and other interest rate models. We cast these models for interest rate into the Heath-Jarrow-Morton framework, show relations between the different models, and explain a few interest rate products and their pricing.The chapters are accompanied by exercises. Students can access solutions to selected exercises, while complete solutions are made available to instructors. The MATLAB and Python computer codes used for most tables and figures in the book are made available for both print and e-book users. This book will be useful for people working in the financial industry, for those aiming to work there one day, and for anyone interested in quantitative finance. The topics that are discussed are relevant for MSc and PhD students, academic researchers, and for quants in the financial industry.Supplementary Material:Solutions Manual is available to instructors who adopt this textbook for their courses. Please contact sales@wspc.com.

Read more less

'The text is lightly written but, underneath the entertaining gloss of anecdote and personal detail, this is actually an intensely serious and carefully constructed book, aimed at informing the educated public about science in general and nanotechnology in particular. It is attractively produced, with innumerable well-captioned coloured images … To my mind, Colm Durkan has succeeded in combining the accessible style of the best science journalists with the authority and vision that come from being a successful scientist and an expert in his field.'Contemporary PhysicsNanotechnology is a buzz word many of us have heard but are uncertain what it really means. This book works to dispel the myths and unravel the truth about this branch of science and technology that has already touched many aspects of our lives, from cheaper and faster medical diagnostic tools and more effective ways to deliver existing ones to helping to create new medicines and electronic devices.Size Really Does Matter starts by looking at the science and history of nanotechnology, followed by real-life examples of how it is used, what cutting-edge research is being carried out and why, and potential risks of this exciting new technology.It is written in an accessible style with genuine enthusiasm for the topics it addresses, including how nanotechnology hopes to address problems in several fields, such as cancer research, novel devices, new materials and improved manufacturing methods for existing products.Related Link(s)

Read more less

A modern challenge is for solar cell materials to enable the highest solar energy conversion efficiencies, at costs as low as possible, and at an energy balance as sustainable as necessary in the future. This textbook explains the principles, concepts and materials used in solar cells. It combines basic knowledge about solar cells and the demanded criteria for the materials with a comprehensive introduction into each of the four classes of materials for solar cells, i.e. solar cells based on crystalline silicon, epitaxial layer systems of III-V semiconductors, thin-film absorbers on foreign substrates, and nano-composite absorbers. In this sense, it bridges a gap between basic literature on the physics of solar cells and books specialized on certain types of solar cells.The last five years had several breakthroughs in photovoltaics and in the research on solar cells and solar cell materials. We consider them in this second edition. For example, the high potential of crystalline silicon with charge-selective hetero-junctions and alkaline treatments of thin-film absorbers, based on chalcopyrite, enabled new records. Research activities were boosted by the class of hybrid organic-inorganic metal halide perovskites, a promising newcomer in the field.This is essential reading for students interested in solar cells and materials for solar cells. It encourages students to solve tasks at the end of each chapter. It has been well applied for postgraduate students with background in materials science, engineering, chemistry or physics.

Read more less

'The text provides an interesting history of previous and anticipated accomplishments, ending with a chapter on the relationship of fusion power to nuclear weaponry. They conclude on an optimistic note, well worth being understood by the general public.'CHOICEThe gap between the state of fusion energy research and public understanding is vast. In an entertaining and engaging narrative, this popular science book gives readers the basic tools to understand how fusion works, its potential, and contemporary research problems.Written by two young researchers in the field, The Future of Fusion Energy explains how physical laws and the Earth's energy resources motivate the current fusion program — a program that is approaching a critical point. The world's largest science project and biggest ever fusion reactor, ITER, is nearing completion. Its success could trigger a worldwide race to build a power plant, but failure could delay fusion by decades. To these ends, this book details how ITER's results could be used to design an economically competitive power plant as well as some of the many alternative fusion concepts.

Read more less

Shown here is how basic concepts of physics can be used to improve models in finance, economics, psychology and biology. Readers are introduced to how physical theory can inform non-physical phenomena in the social sciences, thereby improving decision making and modeling capabilities in research-based and professional settings.Consisting of three parts, the first part deals with the application of quantum operator methods to financial transactions and population dynamics. Part two develops physical concepts, working from classical Lagrangian and Hamiltonian mechanics and leading to an introduction of quantum information and its application to decision making. The final part treats classical and quantum probability theory in some detail and deals, at a more advanced level, with the impact of quantum probabilities on common knowledge and common beliefs between agents in systems.Quantum Methods in Social Science is a high level textbook for advanced undergraduate or graduate students of economics, finance and business, while also being of interest to those with a background in physics.

Read more less

Thinking of starting a postdoc? Want to know how to move on from a postdoc? Or simply want to make the best of your postdoc years? Being a postdoc is not a career ... but it can be the pivotal point in the making of one. This friendly, practical, and occasionally humorous guide to all things postdoc combines the three authors’ vast experience of postdoc careers and personal development.This is a guide to developing, advancing and furthering yourself and your career. In working through exercises, learning from the experience of others (including the trials and tribulations of the authors), and seeking out information, we hope you will consider what success means on your own terms. In its pages you will find advice on: Your postdoc is part of the journey towards a range of career destinations; from an industrial R&D specialist to politician, from lecturer to spin-out Chief Executive, and this book is designed to help you get there. Providing indispensable advice on UK-based postdocs for national and international students, it is perfect for those making exciting transitions (student to postdoc, postdoc to the wide world of careers beyond) or for those who simply want to take their postdoc up a gear.

Read more less

'The text is lightly written but, underneath the entertaining gloss of anecdote and personal detail, this is actually an intensely serious and carefully constructed book, aimed at informing the educated public about science in general and nanotechnology in particular. It is attractively produced, with innumerable well-captioned coloured images … To my mind, Colm Durkan has succeeded in combining the accessible style of the best science journalists with the authority and vision that come from being a successful scientist and an expert in his field.'Contemporary PhysicsNanotechnology is a buzz word many of us have heard but are uncertain what it really means. This book works to dispel the myths and unravel the truth about this branch of science and technology that has already touched many aspects of our lives, from cheaper and faster medical diagnostic tools and more effective ways to deliver existing ones to helping to create new medicines and electronic devices.Size Really Does Matter starts by looking at the science and history of nanotechnology, followed by real-life examples of how it is used, what cutting-edge research is being carried out and why, and potential risks of this exciting new technology.It is written in an accessible style with genuine enthusiasm for the topics it addresses, including how nanotechnology hopes to address problems in several fields, such as cancer research, novel devices, new materials and improved manufacturing methods for existing products.Related Link(s)

Read more less

From the team behind Computer Science for Fun (cs4fn), The Power of Computational Thinking shows that learning to think can be fascinating fun.Yes, and this book shows you how.Computational thinking has changed the way we all live, work and play. It has changed the way science is done too; won wars, created whole new industries and saved lives. It is at the heart of computer programming and is a powerful approach to problem solving, with or without computers. It is so important that many countries now require that primary school children learn the skills.Professors Paul Curzon and Peter McOwan of Queen Mary University of London have written a unique and enjoyable introduction. They describe the elements of computational thinking — such as algorithmic thinking, decomposition, abstraction and pattern matching — in an entertaining and accessible way, using magic tricks, games and puzzles, as well as through real and challenging problems that computer scientists work on.This book gives you a head start in learning the skills needed for coding, and will improve your real life problem solving skills. It will help you design and evaluate new technologies, as well as understand both your own brain and the digital world in a deeper way.

Read more less

Principles of Nuclear Chemistry is an introductory text in nuclear chemistry and radiochemistry, aimed at undergraduates with little or no knowledge of physics. It covers the key aspects of modern nuclear chemistry and includes worked solutions to end of chapter questions.The text begins with basic theories in contemporary physics and uses these to introduce some fundamental mathematical techniques. It relates nuclear phenomena to key divisions of chemistry such as atomic structure, spectroscopy, equilibria and kinetics. It also gives an introduction to f-block chemistry and the nuclear power industry.This book is essential reading for those taking a first course in nuclear chemistry and is a useful companion to other volumes in physical and analytical chemistry. It will also be of use to those new to working in nuclear chemistry or radiochemistry.

Read more less

Mastering climate change has been recognised as a major challenge for the current decade. Besides the physical risks of climate change, the accompanying economic risks are substantial. Carbon Finance: A Risk Management View provides an in-depth analysis of how climate change will affect all aspects of financial markets and how mathematical and statistical methods can be used to analyse, model and manage the ensuing financial risks. There is a focus on the transition risk (termed carbon risk), but also a discussion of the impact of physical risks (as these risks are closely entangled) on the way to low carbon economies. This is a valuable overview for readers seeking an analysis of carbon risks from the perspective of financial risk management, utilising quantitative risk management tools.

Read more less

The electrification of shared fleets offers numerous benefits, including the reduction of local emissions of pollutants, which leads to ecological improvements such as the improvement of air quality. Electric Vehicles in Shared Fleets considers a holistic concept for a socio-technical system with a focus on three core areas: integrated mobility solutions, business models for economic viability, and information systems that support decision-making for the successful implementation and operation of electric vehicles in shared fleets.In this book, we examine different aspects within these areas including multimodal mobility, grid integration of electric vehicles, shared autonomous electric vehicle services, relocation strategies in shared fleets, and the challenge of battery life of electric vehicles. Insights into the future of transport are provided, which is predicted to be shared, autonomous, and electric. This will require the expansion of the charging infrastructure to provide adequate premises for the electrification of transportation and to create market demand.

Read more less

At Les Houches in January 2015, experts in the field of charged particle trapping came together for the Second Winter School on Physics with Trapped Charged Particles. This textbook collates the lectures delivered there, covering the fundamental physics of particle traps and the different types of applications of these devices.Taken as a whole, the book gives an overview of why traps for charged particles are important, how they work, their special features and limitations, and their application in areas such as precision measurements, mass spectrometry, optical clocks, plasma physics, antihydrogen creation, quantum simulation and quantum information processing. Chapters from various world experts include those on the basic properties of Penning traps and RF traps, as well as those covering important practical aspects such as vacuum systems, detection techniques, and different types of particle cooling, including laser cooling.Each individual chapter provides information and guidance on the application of the above methods. Additionally, each chapter is complemented by fully worked problems and solutions, making Trapped Charged Particles perfect for advanced undergraduate and postgraduate students new to this topic.

Read more less

This handbook covers a number of the more recent developments regarding the mechanics of deforming solids. In recent years, much progress has been reported in the wide-ranging mechanical behaviour of solids under stress. Here the term stress in a solid arises from a number of external actions including direct tension, compression, pressure, bending, shear and torsion. Many of the topics covered are yet to find their way into the standard texts, which are often restricted to isotropic elasticity and plasticity.In this two-volume work, what might previously have been regarded as disparate, 'specialist' topics have been placed within a wider mechanics arena to emphasise their common, underlying principles. That arena is taken generally as one of inelasticity for dealing with the essential mechanics of these phenomena. Therein, this text brings together theory, experimental data, key references, examples and exercises, particularly those that relate to the important advances in the subject, both old and new. The presentation of material featured in this way anticipates that in their turn these additional topics will be recognised as essential material for study among engineers, physicists and applied mathematicians at undergraduate and postgraduate levels.

Read more less

This Here Now explains how traditional Japanese buildings respond to distinctive materials, objects and moments, and argues that the built acknowledgment of such events can help to affirm the individuality of our own being. The book also shows how buildings can help us to overcome our separateness by enabling us to share the normally subjective experiences of this, here and now.

Read more less

Welcome to the secretive club of modern hedge funds, where important players in the world of investing and capital markets have invested close to $4 trillion globally.If you're intrigued by the inner workings of hedge funds, investment techniques and technologies they use to source investment alpha, this book is for you. Focusing on the author's three decades of trading experience at leading banks and hedge funds, it covers both discretionary and computer-driven strategies and perspectives on AI-based and quantamental investing using new alternative data, which includes numerous examples and insights of real trades and investment strategies. No mathematical knowledge is required, with the relevant algorithms detailed in the appendices.Discretionary investing details equity and credit investing across the corporate capital structure. Through trading equities, bonds and loans, event-driven trades can target profitable special situations and relative value opportunities. Systematic trading involves computer-driven strategies derived from a scientific and statistical analysis of liquid markets. The investment strategies of both commodity trading advisors (CTAs) and long/short equity funds are detailed, from trend-following to factor-based approaches. AI investing is fashionable but does the reality for hedge funds correspond to the AI hype present in other non-financial domains? AI using neural nets and other machine learning techniques are outlined along with their practical application in regards to investing.Quantitative Hedge Funds also discusses environmental, social and governance (ESG) investing, which has rapidly evolved as the public and institutions demand solutions to global problems such as climate change, pollution and unethical labour practices. ESG investment strategies are migrating out of the long-only space and into hedge funds.Finally, the advent of big data has led to multiple alternative datasets available for hedge fund managers. The integration of alternative data into the investment process is discussed, together with the rise of so-called quantamental investing, a hybrid of the best of human skill and computer-based technologies.Related Link(s)

Read more less

The ISO Innovation Management System (IMS) Standard (ISO 56002) provides a much needed and well-timed input to the innovation management discipline. While research efforts within the domain of innovation management have vastly increased over the past decades, research has primarily been conducted through specific contributions to distinct areas of innovation management (e.g., top management, culture, processes), lacking a more holistic perspective. Practitioners know that managing innovation is challenging. Bringing in a globally recognised standard that offers a holistic perspective will be key in professionalising the innovation management discipline, much like quality management and project management standards have done in the past.This book focuses on the ISO Innovation Management System Standard and the links with ISPIM's Body of Knowledge (BoK) special interest group, the ISO innovation management community, and the International Collaboration Platform for Innovation Management System (ICP4IMS). It covers four topics as follows:

Read more less

A new coronavirus, most likely spilled over from an animal species, has plunged us into the third epidemic of this kind in the last twenty years, against which there were neither vaccines nor therapies.While we argue over the future of humanity, vulnerable to the ecological and environmental degradation that has enabled the pandemic, extraordinary technologies have been developed to combat infectious diseases. In just eleven months it was possible to develop, test and produce the vaccines that are gradually enabling us to escape the SARS-CoV-2 nightmare. In addition, with the legacy of the technologies developed against COVID-19, we will be able to overcome antimicrobial resistance—a slow but inexorable pandemic.As vaccinologists are churning out increasingly precise and effective solutions, vaccine acceptance seems to be receding. Outbreaks of preventable diseases have prompted the health authorities of several countries to make childhood vaccinations mandatory again. Much remains to be done, but a public capable of distinguishing authoritative voices from misleading ones will be able to enjoy the vaccines of tomorrow more widely. Vaccines in the Global Era is an easy-to-read book that can be read by virtually anyone who wants to learn about the importance, effectiveness and safety of vaccines in preventing infectious diseases.Vaccines are cheap, save countless lives, and are more effective than the best medicines. Let's try to make the best use of them for the health of the people and animals living together on this beautiful planet.

Read more less

Catalysis is a multidisciplinary subject. This book introduces the chemical, materials, and engineering principles of catalysis so that both MSc and PhD students with a basic but not extensive knowledge of chemistry and physics and those with a basic understanding of chemical engineering can learn more about catalysis. Examples are taken from catalytic reactions and catalysts used in the energy, petroleum, and base-chemicals industry.The second edition differs from the first edition in the way basic topics are integrated with catalytic applications. The authors introduce two new chapters: 'Cleaning of Fuels by Hydrotreating' and 'Electrocatalysis'. Hydrotreating is a very important industrial process and offers the opportunity to discuss metal sulfide catalysts. Electrocatalysis gains more and more attention because it can be used to minimize the anthropogenic CO₂ emissions. Solar, wind, and hydroelectricity can drive water electrolysis and CO₂ electroreduction and, therefore, excess renewable electricity can be stored in chemicals.Introduction to Heterogeneous Catalysis (Second Edition) is intended for a one-semester course for master and PhD students who want to learn more about the principles of catalysis. This must-read textbook will enable students to read catalysis literature without much difficulty and presents not only the basic concepts of catalysis but integrates the chemical, materials, and engineering aspects of catalysis with industry examples.

Read more less

The twenty-first century is witnessing a truly transnational revival of a very old set of ideas. Despite romantic attachments to old symbols, these late modern nationalism movements are not simply replicas of the previous two waves of nationalism in the 1860s and 1920s. Nor is it true that today's nationalism movements want simply to return to the past and effect a nationalist 1930s-style retrenchment. From Putin's macho revivalism, through to Trump's shocking victory and Xi's strongman regionalism, nationalists engage with the economic context of our time and address issues born of globalization. Crucially, in their vision for international relations they seek the destruction of key international norms in a drive to restore a vision of sovereignty predicated on a survivalist understanding of state power.Global Nationalism, edited and framed by Pablo de Orellana and Nicholas Michelsen, brings together the latest research by up-and-coming early career researchers and scholars. Beginning with a succinct history and typology of contemporary nationalism and its predecessors, this book offers analysis of several cases of contemporary nationalism, examining how specific movements define identity, address grievances and propose identity-based solutions. Key themes and lessons emerge from the study of a variety of cases, from the very ideas animating nationalist thought, to their expression in a wide variety of nationalist movements around the world. The reflections on the ecosystem of nationalist ideas and movements offered in this volume are a vital starting point in the study of contemporary nationalism as a global twenty-first century phenomenon.

Read more less

After the gradual slowing down of the 'third wave of democratization,' electoral authoritarianism is rapidly emerging as a dominant form of contemporary autocracy. Political parties play a key role within the political and institutional structures of electoral autocracies. Pro-regime parties provide the dictatorial executive with electoral and legislative tools of sustaining power. At the same time, permitted opposition parties, while normally incapable of challenging the regime, are important for regime sustainability because they perform such vital functions as co-opting actual or potential opposition groups, facilitating power-sharing, and mobilizing electoral participation. The interactions among the dominant parties and the permitted opposition parties, if displaying sustainable cross-temporal patterns, constitute authoritarian party systems.Authoritarian Party Systems provides a theoretical discussion of electoral authoritarianism with special reference to authoritarian party systems; a methodological overview of party system research with special reference to the problems caused by the authoritarian nature of the observed party systems; a comprehensive cross-regional and historical overview of authoritarian party systems; a quantitative analysis of their structural characteristics, including fragmentation, party system format, volatility, and nationalization; and in-depth discussions of the political regime determinants of authoritarian party systems and of the interplay between party systems and other components of the authoritarian institutional order. Quantitative analysis has been performed on an original database comprising cases of party-structured authoritarian regimes between 1945-2019. This content of the book is illustrated by case studies drawn from across the spectrum of contemporary authoritarian regimes.

Read more less

Understanding China and the Chinese is of paramount importance in today's world. With China's rapid economic growth and increasing political influence, there has been significant interest in learning the Chinese language around the world. While we constantly hear about China in political and economic terms, we rarely come across a book that explains what Chinese culture or a Chinese person is like today.This book offers a critical overview of Chinese culture intended for college students as well as for general readers interested in the topic. While 'Chinese culture' is often deployed in terms of kung fu, Confucius or calligraphy, this book refers to the traditional and modern experiences out of which contemporary Chinese people have grown. Internationally renowned scholar in China Studies, Professor Qian Suoqiao invites readers to join him on an exciting intellectual journey to critically explore important issues including history, language, governmentality, self-cultivation, aesthetics of life, nationalism, cosmopolitanism, communism, the rise of China and her soft power which contribute to the formation of what we call 'Chinese'.

Read more less

This book enables STEMM researchers to write effective papers for publication as well as other research-related texts such as a doctoral thesis, technical report, or conference abstract.Science Research Writing uses a reverse-engineering approach to writing developed from extensive work with STEMM researchers at Imperial College London. This approach unpacks current models of STEMM research writing and helps writers to generate the writing tools needed to operate those models effectively in their own field. The reverse-engineering approach also ensures that writers develop future-proof strategies that will evolve alongside the coming changes in research communication platforms.The Second Edition has been extensively revised and updated to represent current practice and focuses on the writing needs of both early-stage doctoral STEMM researchers and experienced professional researchers at the highest level, whether or not they are native speakers of English. The book retains the practical, user-friendly format of the First Edition, and now contains seven units that deal separately with the components of written STEMM research communication: Introduction, Methods, Results, Discussion, Conclusion, Abstract and Title, as well as extensive FAQ responses and a new Checklist and Tips section. Each unit analyses extracts from recent published STEMM journal papers to enable researchers to discover not only what to write, but, crucially, how to write it.The global nature of science research requires fast, accurate communication of highly complex information that can be understood by all participants. Like the First Edition, the Second Edition is intended as a fast, do-it-yourself guide to make both the process and the product of STEMM research writing more effective.Related Link(s)

Read more less

Right-wing violence is undergoing a revival on both sides of the Atlantic. In Europe, much of this violence has been a backlash against migrants and their offspring carried out by 'lone wolves' and organized groups. In the United States, race, gender, and religious hatreds have triggered far more than 'normal' levels of violence, including a resurgence of attacks on Jews and other anti-Semitic behavior. Examining the contours of the current violence, this book traces the development of the right-wing in the decades following the end of World War II.Right-Wing Violence in the Western World Since World War II considers right-wing violence during the postwar era, from the collapse of Nazi Germany and Fascist Italy to the mid-1950s alongside the right-wing sociological and political influences inherited before WWII. This chapter is followed by an overview of the right-wing in North America and Europe from the '60s onwards into the digital age. The book concludes with a timely and balanced assessment of 'the canary in the coal mine' for liberal democracy.

Read more less

'The first two editions of this textbook have received well-deserved high acclaims, and this — the third edition — deserves no less. Its explanations of the whole gamut of atomic and molecular spectroscopy provide a solid grasp of the theory as well as how to understand such spectra in practice. It thus makes an ideal companion to books that start from the observational aspect of spectroscopy, whether in the lab or at the telescope … This new edition of Tennyson’s book ought to be in the library of every astronomical department.'The Observatory Magazine'It closely follows the course given to third year UCL undergraduates, and the worked examples have surely been tested on students … The last two chapters serve as an effective appendix on more specialised topics in atomic and molecular theory.'Contemporary PhysicsThe third edition of Astronomical Spectroscopy examines the physics necessary to understand and interpret astronomical spectra. It offers a step-by-step guide to the atomic and molecular physics involved in providing astronomical spectra starting from the relatively simple hydrogen atom and working its way to the spectroscopy of small molecules.Based on UCL course material, this book uses actual astronomical spectra to illustrate the theoretical aspects of the book to give the reader a feel for such spectra as well as an awareness of what information can be retrieved from them. It also provides comprehensive exercises, with answers given, to aid understanding.

Read more less

As one of the typical intermolecular interactions, hydrogen-bonding plays a significant role in molecular structure and function. When the hydrogen bond research system is connected with the photon, the hydrogen-bonding effect turns to an excited-state one influencing photochemistry, photobiology, and photophysics. Thus, the hydrogen bond in an excited state is a key topic for understanding the excited-state properties, especially for optoelectronic or luminescent materials.The approaches presented in this book include quantum chemical calculation, molecular dynamics simulation and ultrafast spectroscopy, which are strong tools to investigate the hydrogen bond. Unlike other existing titles, this book combines theoretical calculations and experiments to explore the nature of excited-state hydrogen bonds. By using these methods, more details and faster processes involved in excited-state dynamics of hydrogen bond are explored.This highly interdisciplinary book provides an overview of leading hydrogen bond research. It is essential reading for faculties and students in researching photochemistry, photobiology and photophysics, as well as novel optoelectronic materials, fluorescence probes and photocatalysts. It will also guide research beginners to getting a quick start within this field.

Read more less

This book provides a gentle introduction to the foundations of Algebraic Geometry, starting from computational topics (ideals and homogeneous ideals, zero loci of ideals) up to increasingly intrinsic and abstract arguments, such as 'Algebraic Varieties', whose natural continuation is a more advanced course on the theory of schemes, vector bundles, and sheaf-cohomology.Valuable to students studying Algebraic Geometry and Geometry, this title contains around 60 exercises (with solutions) to help students thoroughly understand the theories introduced in the book. Proofs of the results are carried out in full detail. Many examples are discussed in order to reinforce the understanding of both the theoretical elements and their consequences, as well as the possible applications of the material.

Read more less

This book presents, in a self-contained form, the equations of fluid flow in porous media, with a focus on topics and issues that are relevant to petroleum reservoir engineering. No prior knowledge of the field is assumed on the part of the reader, and particular care is given to careful mathematical and conceptual development of the governing equations, and solutions for important reservoir flow problems. Fluid Flow in Porous Media starts with a discussion of permeability and Darcy's law, then moves on to a careful derivation of the pressure diffusion equation. Solutions are developed and discussed for flow to a vertical well in an infinite reservoir, in reservoirs containing faults, in bounded reservoirs, and to hydraulically fractured wells. Special topics such as the dual-porosity model for fractured reservoirs, and fluid flow in gas reservoirs, are also covered. The book includes twenty problems, along with detailed solutions.As part of the Imperial College Lectures in Petroleum Engineering, and based on a lecture series on the same topic, this book provides the introductory information needed for students of the petroleum engineering and hydrology.

Read more less

Food manufacturers, researchers and society in general are increasingly highly interested in the quality and origin of food products. Considering the complexity of the food chain in a globalized world — where many players are involved between production and consumption — fraudulent food manipulation and adulteration practices are increasingly easier to conduct without being detected. Generally, food adulteration is carried out to increase volume, to mask the presence of inferior quality components, and to replace authentic substances for the seller's economic gain. Analytical methodologies to guarantee food integrity and authenticity are therefore required.Chromatographic and Related Separation Techniques in Food Integrity and Authenticity — Volume A: Advances in Chromatographic Techniques addresses fraud prevention and the latest chromatographic and related separation analytical techniques to guarantee food integrity and authenticity by giving special attention to relevant authenticity issues in food production.Chromatographic and Related Separation Techniques in Food Integrity and Authenticity — Volume B: Relevant Applications addresses the relevant application of techniques to assess different food products' integrity and authenticity.

Read more less