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Stress Responses in Plants
by Bhumi Nath Tripathi Maria MüllerThis collection discusses the variety of specific molecular reactions by means of which plants respond to physiological and toxic stress conditions. It focuses on the characterization of the molecular mechanisms that underlie the induction of toxicity and the triggered responses and resistances. The nine chapters, all written by prominent researchers, examine heavy metal toxicity, aluminum toxicity, arsenic toxicity, salt toxicity, drought stress, light stress, temperature stress, flood stress and UV-B stress. In addition, information on the fundamentals of stress responses and resistance mechanisms is provided. The book addresses researchers and students working in the fields of plant physiology and biochemistry.
Stress Responses of Foodborne Pathogens
by Tian Ding Xinyu Liao Jinsong FengFood-borne bacterial pathogens encounter a number of stressors during food processing and preservation. More and more pathogens are able to adapt their physiological properties and/or genetic expression to survive these stressors and pose a risk to food safety and public health. This book provides the reader with a comprehensive overview of common food processing-associated stressors (e.g., heat, cold, acid, osmosis, and oxidation) and deals with the molecular basis of the respective bacterial stress response mechanisms (e.g., viable but nonculturable state, biofilm formation, sporulation, and cross-protection response). Additionally, various chapters cover the response mechanisms of foodborne pathogens to emerging nonthermal sterilisation technologies such as ultrasound, high-pressure processing, pulsed electric fields, ultraviolet light, irradiation and phytochemicals. Through this book we also learn about future prospects for the efficient control of stress adaption in foodborne pathogens to ensure maximum consumer safety. This book offers a valuable resource for researchers, graduate students, food process engineers and product developers in the fields of food science and microbiology.
Stress Responses of Lactic Acid Bacteria
by Konstantinos Papadimitriou Effie TsakalidouBeginning with the basics of lactic acid bacteria and stress response, then working into specific fields of research and current developments, Stress Responses of Lactic Acid Bacteria will serve as an essential guidebook to researchers in the field, industry professionals, and advanced students in the area. The exploration of stress responses in lactic acid bacteria began in the early 90s and revealed the differences that exist between LAB and the classical model microorganisms. A considerable amount of work has been performed on the main genera / species of LAB regarding the genes implicated and their actual role and regulation, and the mechanisms of stress resistance have also been elucidated. Recent genome and transcriptome analyses complement the proteome and genetic information available today and shed a new light on the perception of and the responses to stress by lactic acid bacteria.
Stress-responsive Factors and Molecular Farming in Medicinal Plants
by Divya Singh Amit Kumar Mishra Akhileshwar Kumar SrivastavaThis contributed volume brings out a comprehensive collection of changes from cellular to molecular levels in medicinal plants under extreme environments. The focus of this book is to address the molecular changes in medicinal plants under different abiotic stresses. Medicinal plants are regarded as rich resources of components that can be used for drug development in the pharmaceutical industry. A few medicinal plants are considered vital sources of nutrients and solicited for their therapeutic properties. Therefore, it is essential to understand medicinal plants' interaction under abiotic stresses as compounds obtained from these plants play an important role in human health. This book is of interest to students, teachers, researchers, scientists, medicinal plant experts, and policymakers. Also, the book provides study material for undergraduate and graduate students of botany, environmental sciences, medicinal and aromatic plants, biochemistry, and biotechnology. National and international scientists working in the area of medicinal plants, drug development, and policymakers will also find this a useful read
Stress Signaling in Plants: Genomics and Proteomics Perspective, Volume 2
by Maryam Sarwat Altaf Ahmad M. Z. Abdin Mohamed M. IbrahimThis two-volume set takes an in-depth look at stress signaling in plants from a uniquely genomic and proteomic perspective and offers a comprehensive treatise that covers all of the signaling pathways and mechanisms that have been researched so far. Currently, plant diseases, extreme weather caused by climate change, drought and an increase in metals in soil are amongst the major limiting factors of crop production worldwide. They devastate not only the food supply but also the economy of a nation. With global food scarcity in mind, there is an urgent need to develop crop plants with increased stress tolerance so as to meet the global food demands and to preserve the quality of our planet. In order to do this, it is necessary to understand how plants react and adapt to stress from the genomic and proteomic perspective. Plants adapt to stress conditions by activating cascades of molecular mechanisms, which result in alterations in gene expression and synthesis of protective proteins. From the perception of the stimulus to the transduction of the signal, followed by an appropriate cellular response, the plants employ a complex network of primary and secondary messenger molecules. Cells exercise a large number of noticeably distinct signaling pathways to regulate their activity. In order to contend with different environmental adversities, plants have developed a series of mechanisms at the physiological, cellular and molecular levels that respond to stress. Each chapter in this volume provides an in-depth explanation of what we currently know of a particular aspect of stress signaling and where we are heading. Together with the highly successful first volume, Stress Signaling in Plants: Genomics and Proteomics Perspective, Volume 2 covers an important aspect of plant biology for both students and seasoned researchers.
Stress Signaling in Plants: Genomics and Proteomics Perspective, Volume 1
by Maryam Sarwat Altaf Ahmad Mz AbdinPlant diseases, extreme weather caused by climate change, drought and an increase in metals in soil are amongst the major limiting factors of crop production worldwide. They devastate not only food supply but also the economy of a nation. Keeping in view of the global food scarcity, there is, an urgent need to develop crop plants with increased stress tolerance so as to meet the global food demands and to preserve the quality of our planet. In order to do this, it is necessary to understand how plants react and adapt to stress from the genomic and proteomic perspective. Plants adapt to stress conditions by activation of cascades of molecular mechanisms, which result in alterations in gene expression and synthesis of protective proteins/compounds. From the perception of the stimulus to transduction of the signal, followed by an appropriate response, the plants employ a complex network of primary and secondary messenger molecules. Cell signaling is the component of a complex system of communication that directs basic cellular activities and synchronizes cell actions. Cells exercise a large number of noticeably distinct signaling pathways to regulate their activity. In order to contend with different environmental adversities plants have developed a series of mechanisms at the physiological, cellular and molecular level. This two volume set takes an in-depth look at the Stress Signaling in Plants from a uniquely genomic and proteomics perspective. Stress Signaling in Plants offers a comprehensive treatise on the Chapter, covering all of the signaling pathways and mechanisms that have been researched so far. Each chapter provides in-depth explanation of what we currently know of a particular aspect of stress signaling and where we are headed. All authors have currently agreed and abstracts have been complied for the first volume, due out midway through 2012. We aim to have the second volume out at the beginning of 2013.
Stress, Trauma and Synaptic Plasticity
by Maxwell Bennett Jim LagopoulosThis book presents the latest state of knowledge on grey matter changes in the brain following stress and trauma. Where do these changes take place and what are the underlying molecular mechanisms? These questions are addressed in several sections, providing detailed insights into the cellular and molecular alterations that occur in the brain after stress and trauma. <p><p> The changes to the grey matter in certain areas of the brain are similar in stressed humans and animals, with the most likely basis for these changes being the degeneration of synaptic connections. In the book’s first sections the reader will learn about the core network of synaptic connections that are affected by stress and trauma disorders. These synaptic connections are modulated by dopamine, serotonin and Brain Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF). In subsequent chapters, the NMDA-receptor mediated plasticity of these synapses is discussed, with particular attention given to how glucocorticoids can interfere with the function of BDNF and thereby affect the synapse’s physical stability. Furthermore, the reader will learn about the importance of the genetics of the glucocorticoid gene and the epigenetic control of BDNF in connection with synaptic plasticity. The authors conclude by integrating the observations summarized in the previous sections so as to present plausible hypotheses regarding the identity of the networks, synapses and molecular pathways that support fear and extinction. <p> Providing an up-to-date overview of the mechanisms of synaptic plasticity and physiological changes in the stressed and traumatized brain, this book will appeal to researchers, clinicians and students in the neurosciences.
Stress und Armut: Eine interdisziplinäre Untersuchung von Stress in Zellen, Individuen und Gesellschaft
by Michael Breitenbach Elisabeth Kapferer Clemens SedmakDas Wort Stress ist allgegenwärtig und ist ein Modewort geworden. Jeder ist gestresst, so scheint es, und das fortwährend. Dieses Buch befasst sich mit der Bedeutung von Stress in den Natur- und Geisteswissenschaften und untersucht zellulären Stress als Ursache für Stress und im Zusammenhang mit dem, was Menschen als Stress erleben. Wann empfinden wir in psychologischem Sinn Stress und wann zeigen wir physiologische Anzeichen von Stress in unserem Gehirn?Stress ist eine Abweichung von dem, was sich „normal“ und gesund anfühlt. Er kann durch soziale oder ökonomische Faktoren ausgelöst werden und kann chronisch werden, was erhebliche Auswirkungen auf den einzelnen Menschen und auf die Gesellschaft als Ganzes hat. Dieses Buch konzentriert sich auf Armut als eine chronische Ursache von Stress und untersucht, wie der Mangel an druckfreier Zeit, die Entbehrungen und die Unvorhersehbarkeit des Alltags sowie ein allgemeiner Mangel an Schutz zu destruktivem toxischem Stress führen. Dieser permanente Druck beeinträchtigt die kognitiven und sozialen Funktionen, die Gehirnentwicklung in der Kindheit und kann auch zu vorzeitiger Alterung führen. Was können die Wissenschaften für unser Verständnis von und unsere Reaktion auf Stress leisten? Was kann gegen toxischen Stress getan werden, sowohl auf persönlicher Ebene als auch in Bezug auf Strukturen und politische Maßnahmen?Das Buch richtet sich an alle, die sich für Stress, seine Ursachen und Folgen sowie für den Zusammenhang von Stress und Armut interessieren.
Stresses in glaciers: Methods of Calculation
by Peter HalfarIn this book, for the first time, a hitherto unknown general solution of the reliably known stress conditions is presented. This general solution forms a reliable and new starting point to get further in stress calculations than before. In this way, approximately realistic solutions can be found despite a recurring problem: the information deficits that are unavoidable due to the difficulty of exploring glaciers. This issue is demonstrated by the example of stagnating glaciers. For horizontally isotropic homogeneous tabular iceberg models, even mathematically exact unambiguous solutions of all relevant conditions are presented. All calculations use only elementary arithmetic operations, differentiations and integrations. The mathematical fundamentals are presented in detail and explained in many application examples. The integral operators specific to calculations of stresses facilitate the mathematical considerations. The stand-alone text allows the reader to understand what is involved even without considering the formulas. The author Peter Halfar is a theoretical physicist. He also developed a model of the movement of large ice caps (1983), which is still in use today.
Stresses of Cucurbits: Current Status and Management
by Bholanath Mondal Chandan Kumar Mondal Palash MondalWith advances in agro-technology, cucurbits are now being grown throughout the year. However, they are prone to biotic and abiotic stresses resulting in significant yield loss. Sustainable management of such stresses is a complex issue in the intensive cultivation of cucurbits involving high levels of fertilization and irrigation. Further, under the changing climatic conditions, pest scenarios vary constantly, with invasive alien species of pests becoming more common as a result of free trade and frequent international travel. As such, agrochemicals are being used as powerful weapons to combat the increasing number of pests and diseases. Lack of proper crop management technologies, inaccurate diagnosis, and indiscriminate and excessive use of pesticides are major causes of pesticide resistance and resurgence, environmental pollution, and hazards to the non-target biota. This comprehensive book provides essential insights into the management of biotic and abiotic stresses in cucurbit cultivation and re-evaluating the role of agrochemicals, and gathers information on insect pests, mites, nematodes, diseases and weeds, as well as on their sustainable management from scattered sources. Written in language that is easy to understand and including high-quality photographs, it is a valuable resource for students, researchers, plant protection specialists, extension workers, and growers.
Stretch Intensity and the Inflammatory Response: A Paradigm Shift
by Nikos C. ApostolopoulosIn this manuscript, practitioners and students who are concerned with sports and rehabilitation medicine, kinesiology, as well as coaches and athletes, are introduced to numerous concepts, including mechanotransduction, inflammation, pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines, calpains, the extracellular matrix, neutrophils and macrophages, and their relevance to stretching, particularly stretching intensity. Although the quantitative parameters of training, duration, and frequency are important, it is the qualitative criterion of intensity (“how much”) that the author suggests is ultimately of greater concern. Intensity, the rate and magnitude of force, may be responsible for the proper recovery, regeneration, and adaptation of the musculoskeletal tissues from training, competition, or rehabilitation from injuries. Research suggests that too much force results in the stimulation of an inflammatory response, one associated with a biochemical feedback emerging from a mechanical stimulus. The intent of this manuscript is twofold: to initiate the discussion of the importance of stretching intensity with regard to proper recovery, regeneration, and adaptation, and to suggest that researchers need to explore its potential role in addressing numerous inflammatory (RA) and non-inflammatory (OA, recurrent tendinitis etc.) musculoskeletal conditions as well.
Stretchable Bioelectronics for Medical Devices and Systems
by John A. Rogers Roozbeh Ghaffari Dae-Hyeong KimThis book highlights recent advances in soft and stretchable biointegrated electronics. A renowned group of authors address key ideas in the materials, processes, mechanics, and devices of soft and stretchable electronics; the wearable electronics systems; and bioinspired and implantable biomedical electronics. Among the topics discussed are liquid metals, stretchable and flexible energy sources, skin-like devices, in vitro neural recording, and more. Special focus is given to recent advances in extremely soft and stretchable bio-inspired electronics with real-world clinical studies that validate the technology. Foundational theoretical and experimental aspects are also covered in relation to the design and application of these biointegrated electronics systems. This is an ideal book for researchers, engineers, and industry professionals involved in developing healthcare devices, medical tools and related instruments relevant to various clinical practices.
Stretching Anatomy
by Arnold G. Nelson Jouko KokkonenGet on the path to increased flexibility and improved muscular strength! With more than 450,000 copies sold worldwide, Stretching Anatomy, Third Edition, is your go-to guide for seeing inside the stretches that will help you increase range of motion, enhance recovery, and facilitate ease of movement during physical and everyday activities. <p><p> The visually stunning illustrations of 79 stretches cover all major joint areas of the body from the feet to the neck. Each stretch includes step-by-step instructions on how to perform the stretch, the names of the muscles stretched, and a Stretch Notes section detailing the procedures and benefits of every exercise as well as safety considerations and variations for increasing or decreasing difficulty. <p> You’ll find suggested stretching programs for daily mobility and flexibility, including stretches for people who sit or stand for extended periods, as well as a program proven to help lower blood glucose. Sport-specific stretching routines for 23 different sports are included for athletes and their trainers who want to improve flexibility, maximize efficiency of movement, and enhance recovery from training and competing in their chosen sport. <p> If tight hips, frozen shoulder, limited neck mobility, leg cramps, arthritis, or general muscle soreness are conditions you’re all too familiar with, use Stretching Anatomy, Third Edition, to develop a regular stretching routine that will help you move and feel better. <p> CE exam available! For certified professionals, a companion continuing education exam is available that can be completed after reading this book. The Stretching Anatomy, Third Edition Online CE Exam, may be purchased separately or as part of the Stretching Anatomy, Third Edition With CE Exam, package that includes both the book and the exam.
Stretching and Shrinking, Understanding Similarity
by Glenda Lappan James T. Fey William M. Fitzgerald Susan N. Friel Elizabeth Difanis PhillipsNIMAC-sourced textbook
Strict-Feedback Nonlinear Systems: Gain Control Design (Intelligent Control and Learning Systems #7)
by Xianfu ZhangThis book describes the research progress of the control design about strict-feedback nonlinear systems. A novel gain control design method is proposed, which greatly simplifies the construction procedure of controller for strict-feedback nonlinear systems. The control design problem of strict-feedback nonlinear systems is converted into the determination problem of gain parameters or the construction of dynamic gain equations. Therefore, the tedious iterative design procedure is effectively avoided. This book can be used as a reference for researchers in the field of control theory and engineers seeking advanced methods in practical control applications.
Strict Finitism and the Logic of Mathematical Applications
by Feng YeThis book intends to show that radical naturalism (or physicalism), nominalism and strict finitism account for the applications of classical mathematics in current scientific theories. The applied mathematical theories developed in the book include the basics of calculus, metric space theory, complex analysis, Lebesgue integration, Hilbert spaces, and semi-Riemann geometry (sufficient for the applications in classical quantum mechanics and general relativity). The fact that so much applied mathematics can be developed within such a weak, strictly finitistic system, is surprising in itself. It also shows that the applications of those classical theories to the finite physical world can be translated into the applications of strict finitism, which demonstrates the applicability of those classical theories without assuming the literal truth of those theories or the reality of infinity. Both professional researchers and students of philosophy of mathematics will benefit greatly from reading this book.
Strigolactones: Emerging Plant Hormones
by Tariq Aftab Kaiser Iqbal WaniThis book is a comprehensive guide to strigolactones’ role in plant biology, growth, and sustainable agriculture. Strigolactones, a fascinating and rapidly evolving class of plant hormones, have garnered significant attention in plant biology over the past decade. Initially discovered for stimulating the germination of parasitic plants, strigolactones are now recognized as key regulators of numerous plant processes, including growth, development, and response to environmental stresses. Their multifaceted nature and wide-ranging impact on plant physiology make strigolactones a critical study area for researchers aiming to enhance crop yield, resilience, and overall agricultural productivity. This edited volume provides a comprehensive overview of the current state of knowledge on strigolactones, exploring their biosynthesis, signaling mechanisms, and practical applications in agriculture. The book collects contributions from leading experts in the field, offering a diverse and in-depth perspective on the various roles that strigolactones play in plant biology. The chapters in this volume cover a broad spectrum of topics, from the molecular and genetic basis of strigolactone biosynthesis to their interactions with other phytohormones and environmental factors. The book examines the regulatory functions of strigolactones in plant architecture, including shoot branching, root development, and leaf senescence, as well as their involvement in stress responses such as drought, salinity, and pathogen attack. Also highlighted are recent advancements in understanding strigolactone signaling pathways and the potential for genetic engineering to manipulate these hormones for crop improvement. Audience Plant biologists, agronomists, horticulturists, and agriculture industry professionals studying plant development to address agricultural challenges.
Strigolactones: Methods and Protocols (Methods in Molecular Biology #2309)
by Cristina Prandi Francesca CardinaleThis volume presents the most useful laboratory protocols in strigolactones(SL) research. Chapters guide readers through wet-lab paths, issues around stability, protocols to evaluate SL activity, effects towards soil inhabitants such as parasitic plants, mycorrhizal and non-mycorrhizal fungi, nodulating bacteria, and protocols to assess effects on plant development are discussed. Written in the highly successful Methods in Molecular Biology series format, chapters include introductions to their respective topics, lists of the necessary materials and reagents, step-by-step, readily reproducible laboratory protocols, and tips on troubleshooting and avoiding known pitfalls. Authoritative and cutting-edge, Strigolactones: Methods and Protocols aims to deliver a clear-cut and standardized set of experimental protocols to a broad scientific community.
Strigolactones, Alkamides and Karrikins in Plants: Recent Updates and Future Prospects
by Soumya Mukherjee Tariq AftabStrigolactones, Alkamides and Karrikins in Plants: Recent Updates and Future Prospects providescomprehensive knowledge on the various aspects of plant growth, physiology, and communicationassociated with the three potential biomolecules. Strigolactones have gained much importance in thelast decade as potential plant growth regulators. Likewise, alkamides are also known for their plantgrowth regulatory and pharmacological properties. The evolutionary significance of karrikins as apotential signaling molecule in different plant groups has been fascinating to plant physiologists andecologists. This book enables the reader to gain insights into the myriad role of these biomoleculesin plant physiology in normal and challenging environments. The book offers comprehensive coverage of the most essential topics, including: • Regulation of strigolactone biosynthesis.• Strigolactones and plant stress tolerance.• Strigolactones and parasitic plants.• Alkamides and plant-microbe interaction in rhizosphere.• Pharmacological potential of alkamides.• Molecular associations of strigolactones and karrikins.• Karrikins in plant biotechnology.• Commercial realities of karrikins in biodiversity restoration. In reference to the recent findings in the field, the authors have provided insights into the role of eachbiomolecule and analyzed the future prospects of each cover area. The present book is the first of its kind, in which the three molecules have been integrated as potentialregulators of plant signaling, communication, and physiology in adverse conditions. Karrikins inplant biology is an emerging field in which its inter-relationship with strigolactones shall pave the wayto future investigations of the molecular mechanisms of plant stress tolerance, regulation of rootsystem architecture, and crop yield.
Strigolactones - Biology and Applications
by Hinanit Koltai Cristina PrandiThis book describes the exciting biology and chemistry of strigolactones. Outgrowth of shoot branches? Development of lateral roots? Interactions with beneficial microorganisms? Avoiding parasitic plants? Responding to drought conditions? These important “decisions” that plants make are all regulated by a group of hormones called strigolactones.The latest research has yielded a number of new biological concepts, such as a redefinition of plant hormones and their crosstalk, new functional diversity of receptors, hormonal “smoke and mirrors,” core signaling pathways, and even phloem transport of receptor proteins. Another important aspect of strigolactones is the related synthetic chemistry, which could pave the way for a variety of potential applications in agriculture and medicine.The book explains in detail the role that strigolactones play in plant development, and addresses the interaction of plants with soil biota and abiotic stress conditions, prospects of strigolactone biochemistry and evolution, and chemical synthesis of natural strigolactones and analogs, together with their potential applications. Including a glossary and end-of-chapter synopses to aid in comprehension, it offers a valuable asset for teachers, lecturers and (post-) graduate students in biology, agronomy and related areas..
Strike: The SYLO Chronicles #3 (The SYLO Chronicles #3)
by D. J. MacHale#1 New York Times bestselling author D.J. MacHale is back with the third book in the SYLO Chronicles. Once again, Tucker Pierce and friends must fight for their lives against the better-equipped SYLO. All bets are off in Strike--with twists so big readers will never see them coming--while the action and pulse-pounding suspense remain as high as ever. Fans will be sure to devour this incredibly satisfying conclusion.Praise for the SYLO Chronicles: "A relentlessly fast-paced, intriguing, expertly-written tale that leaves you breathless and satisfied, yet wanting more. Highly recommended."--James Dashner, New York Times bestselling author of the Maze Runner series "Absolutely un-put-downable, more exciting than an Xbox and roller coaster combined."--Kirkus, starred review"If you're a fan of The Maze Runner and Alex Rider, you might want to pick up SYLO. . . . A fast-paced read and a huge cliffhanger."--EW.com"With this extremely high-octane story that's the equivalent to a summer movie blockbuster, MacHale kicks off an apocalyptic trilogy sure to leave readers demanding the next installment."--Booklist"This action-filled, end-of-the-world-as-we-know-it adventure . . . should leave teen readers clamoring for the next installment."--VOYA"An entertaining and creepy tale."--Publishers Weekly"MacHale pens some terrific and unique action scenes. . . will leave readers hungry for the next installment."--School Library Journal
Striking The Hornets' Nest: Naval Aviation And The Origins Of Strategic Bombing In World War I
by Geoffrey L. Rossano Thomas WildenbergStriking the Hornets’ Nest provides the first extensive analysis of the Northern Bombing Group (NBG), the Navy’s most innovative aviation initiative of World War I and one of the world’s first dedicated strategic bombing programs. Very little has been written about the Navy’s aviation activities in World War I and even less on the NBG. Standard studies of strategic bombing tend to focus on developments in the Royal Air Force or the U. S. Army Air Service. This work concentrates on the origins of strategic bombing in World War I, and the influence this phenomenon had on the Navy’s future use of the airplane. The NBG program faced enormous logistical and personnel challenges. Demands for aircraft, facilities, and personnel were daunting, and shipping shortages added to the seemingly endless delays in implementing the program. Despite the impediments, the Navy (and Marine Corps) triumphed over organizational hurdles and established a series of bases and depots in northern France and southern England in the late summer and early fall of 1918. Ironically, by the time the Navy was ready to commence bombing missions, the German retreat had caused abandonment of the submarine bases the NBG had been created to attack. The men involved in this program were pioneers, overcoming major obstacles only to find they were no longer needed. Though the Navy rapidly abandoned its use of strategic bombing after World War I, their brief experimentation directed the future use of aircraft in other branches of the armed forces. It is no coincidence that Robert Lovett, the young Navy reserve officer who developed much of the NBG program in 1918, spent the entire period of World War II as Assistant Secretary of War for Air where he played a crucial role organizing and equipping the strategic bombing campaign unleashed against Germany and Japan. Rossano and Wildenberg have provided a definitive study of the NBG, a subject that has been overlooked for too long.
String Field Theory: A Modern Introduction (Lecture Notes in Physics #980)
by Harold ErbinThis textbook provides an introduction to string field theory (SFT). String theory is usually formulated in the worldsheet formalism, which describes a single string (first-quantization). While this approach is intuitive and could be pushed far due to the exceptional properties of two-dimensional theories, it becomes cumbersome for some questions or even fails at a more fundamental level. These motivations have led to the development of SFT, a description of string theory using the field theory formalism (second-quantization). As a field theory, SFT provides a rigorous and constructive formulation of string theory. The main focus of the book is the construction of the closed bosonic SFT. The accent is put on providing the reader with the foundations, conceptual understanding and intuition of what SFT is. After reading this book, the reader is able to study the applications from the literature. The book is organized in two parts. The first part reviews the notions of the worldsheet theory that are necessary to build SFT (worldsheet path integral, CFT and BRST quantization). The second part starts by introducing general concepts of SFT from the BRST quantization. Then, it introduces off-shell string amplitudes before providing a Feynman diagrams interpretation from which the building blocks of SFT are extracted. After constructing the closed SFT, the author outlines the proofs of several important properties such as background independence, unitarity and crossing symmetry. Finally, the generalization to the superstring is also discussed.
String-Net Construction of RCFT Correlators (SpringerBriefs in Mathematical Physics #45)
by Jürgen Fuchs Christoph Schweigert Yang YangThis book studies using string-net models to accomplish a direct, purely two-dimensional, approach to correlators of two-dimensional rational conformal field theories. The authors obtain concise geometric expressions for the objects describing bulk and boundary fields in terms of idempotents in the cylinder category of the underlying modular fusion category, comprising more general classes of fields than is standard in the literature. Combining these idempotents with Frobenius graphs on the world sheet yields string nets that form a consistent system of correlators, i.e. a system of invariants under appropriate mapping class groups that are compatible with factorization. The authors extract operator products of field objects from specific correlators; the resulting operator products are natural algebraic expressions that make sense beyond semisimplicity. They also derive an Eckmann-Hilton relation internal to a braided category, thereby demonstrating the utility of string nets for understanding algebra in braided tensor categories. Finally, they introduce the notion of a universal correlator. This systematizes the treatment of situations in which different world sheets have the same correlator and allows for the definition of a more comprehensive mapping class group.
String, Straightedge, and Shadow: The Story of Geometry
by Julia E. DigginsThis book explains how the basic principles of elementary geometry were discovered over 2,000 years ago. Indicates the major roles played by the early civilizations of Mesopotamia, Egypt, and Greece.