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Understanding the Failure of Materials and Structures: An Introduction
by David JessonUnderstanding the Failure of Materials and Structures introduces practical aspects of mechanical characterisation of materials and structures. It gives those with little or no prior experience insight into the process of developing everyday products, issues behind some high-profile failures, and tools to begin planning a programme of research.Written in an easily accessible manner, the work discusses fundamentals of the physical world, highlighting the range of materials used and varied applications, and offers a brief history of materials development. It covers the role of materials structure in controlling materials properties and describes mechanical properties, such as stress, strain, stiffness, fracture, and fatigue. The book also features information on various modes of testing and strain measurement. It provides some discussion on topics that go beyond well-behaved test coupons, with thoughts on biomechanics, megastructures, and testing for applications in extreme environments. Finally, it covers how materials fail and the future of physical testing.With minimal theory and mathematics, this work presents the fundamentals of mechanical characterisation of materials and structures in a manner accessible to the novice materials investigator and the layperson interested in the science behind materials engineered for use in common and advanced products.
Understanding the Genome
by Editors of Scientific AmericanA guide to understanding the genome and the possibilities of this knowledge.
Understanding the Geological and Medical Interface of Arsenic - As 2012: Proceedings of the 4th International Congress on Arsenic in the Environment, 22-27 July 2012, Cairns, Australia (Arsenic in the Environment - Proceedings)
by Jochen Bundschuh Prosun Bhattacharya Ravi Naidu Jack C. Ng Barry N. NollerThe congress "Arsenic in the Environment" offers an international, multi- and interdisciplinary discussion platform for arsenic research aimed at practical solutions of problems with considerable social impact, as well as focusing on cutting edge and breakthrough research in physical, chemical, toxicological, medical and other specific issues on ar
Understanding the Gut Microbiota
by Gerald W. TannockThis book discusses the community of microbial species (the microbiota, microbiome), which inhabits the large bowel of humans. Written from the perspective of an academic who has been familiar with the topic for 40 years, it provides a long-term perspective of knowledge about this high profile and fast-moving topic. Building on general ecological principles, the book aims to help the reader to understand how the microbiota is formed, how it works, and what the consequences are to humans. Understanding the Gut Microbiota focuses on conceptual progress made from studies of the human bowel microbiota. Where appropriate, it draws on knowledge obtained from other animal species to provide conceptual enlightenment, but this is essentially a book about humans and their bowel microbes. Particular research approaches are recommended to fill knowledge gaps so that fundamental ecological theory and information about the microbiota can be translated into benefits for human health. The relationship between food for humans and resulting food for bowel bacteria emerges as an important topic for consideration. This concise scholarly treatise of the microbiota of the human bowel will be of great interest and use as a text and reference work for professionals, teachers and students across a wide range of disciplines, including the health sciences, general biology, and food science and technology. The provision of handy ‘explanation of terms’ means that those with a general interest in science can also read the book with enjoyment.
Understanding the Gut-Bone Signaling Axis
by Laura R. McCabe Narayanan ParameswaranThis is the first book compiling current research on the gut-bone signaling axis and its implications in the pathophysiology of GI and bone diseases. Rather than focusing on a single mechanism, this book provides the reader with a broad view on gut-bone signaling and the most up-to-date information in this rapidly growing area. The volume is also unique in that it looks at what is known about GI diseases affecting bone and then examines the role of the microbiome and its modulation by pre and probiotics to treat bone disease, placing this topic within the context of gut-bone signaling pathways. Understanding the Gut-Bone Signaling Axis will thus provide an understanding of how various therapies could be applied to this area.
Understanding the Impact of Human Interventions on the Hydrology of Nile Basin Headwaters, the Case of Upper Tekeze Catchments (IHE Delft PhD Thesis Series)
by Tesfay Gebretsadkan GebremicaelThe availability and distribution of water resources in catchments are influenced by various natural and anthropogenic factors. Human-induced environmental changes are key factors controlling the hydrological flows of semi-arid catchments. Land degradation, water scarcity and inefficient utilization of available water resources continue to be important constraints for socio-economic development in the headwater catchments of the Nile river basin in particular over the Ethiopian Catchments. This research investigates the impact of landscape anthropogenic changes on the hydrological processes in the Upper Tekeze basin (A tributary of the Nile). The hydrology of the basin is investigated through analysis of hydro-climatic data, remote sensing techniques, new field measurements and parsimonious hydrological models. The empirical evidence provided in this book confirms that human-induced environmental changes can significantly change the hydrology of catchments, both in negative (degradation) and in positive (restoration) ways. This book also shows that rainfall-runoff relationships in semi-arid catchments are non-uniform and hence the application of hydrological models in such catchments need special attention. Moreover, parsimonious dynamic hydrological model improves our understanding of the hydrological response to dynamic environmental changes.
Understanding the Japanese Food and Agrimarket: A Multifaceted Opportunity
by Andrew D O'RourkeThe contributing authors of Understanding the Japanese Food and Agrimarket discuss broad forces that affect markets in Japan and specific situations faced in marketing grain, livestock, and seafood products; fruits; vegetables; and wood products. Many of the contributors speak and read Japanese and have lived in Japan for extensive periods; they are able to give deep insights into how and why the Japanese consumption and distribution system behaves as it does. They draw on their expertise to fully explore various Japanese food and fiber markets. As they demystify the Japanese market, they illustrate for readers several systematic approaches to mastering the Japanese food and fiber markets.Readers will discover that effective long-term marketing strategies in Japan must be based on sound analytical information. The contributors provide such needed material with chapters on items as diverse as wine, grain products, beef, and fruits and vegetables. Some of the specific topics covered include:changes in Japanese food consumptionJapanese food distribution systemdemand for beef products in Japandemand for vegetables and vegetable seedsJapanese wine marketdemand for bakery productsnew food products for the Japanese marketdeveloping trade relations in wood productsExecutives of commodity associations or firms exporting foods to Japan will find the general sections most interesting as well as chapters specific to their products. Teachers and students exploring exporting to the Japanese market will be intrigued by the various dimensions of the “multifaceted” nature and opportunities of the Japanese market.
Understanding the Microbiome Interactions in Agriculture and the Environment
by Pallaval Veera BramhachariThis book illustrates the importance of microbiome interactions in sustainable agriculture and the environment. The chapters of the book provide information pertaining to the vast diversity of microbiomes in many ecosystems and their functional dynamics. The book also discusses bioremediation, space microbiomes, geo microbiomes, coral microbiomes, antibiotic resistomes, and rhizomicrobiome. It also sheds light on the complex syntrophic and other symbiotic interactions between bacteria, protists, plants, and certain animals in agricultural and environmental systems. The book, in turn, provides an understanding of the adaptation, resilience, and evolution of microbial ecosystems. Further, the chapters cover metagenomics analysis of microbiomes of a novel or extreme environments, microbial resilience or temporal fluctuations, symbiosis and co-evolution of the microbiome, and novel microbial interactions in agriculture and environment. Finally, the book elucidates a comprehensive yet representative description of complex structural and functional diversity within the plant and environmental microbiomes to reveal their immense potential. This book covers United Nations Sustainable Developmental Goal 2 towards Zero Hunger.
Understanding the Modern Russian Police
by Olga B. Semukhina Kenneth Michael ReynoldsUnderstanding the Modern Russian Police represents the culmination of ten years of research and an ongoing partnership between the Volgograd Academy of Russian Internal Affairs Ministry (VA MVD) and the Volgograd branch of the Russian Presidential Academy of National Economy and Public Administration (VAPA). The book provides a timely and comprehen
Understanding the Nature‒Nurture Debate (Understanding Life)
by Eric TurkheimerThere are arguably few areas of science more fiercely contested than the question of what makes us who we are. Are we products of our environments or our genes? Is nature the governing force behind our behaviour or is it nurture? While it is now widely agreed that it is a mixture of both, discussions continue as to which is the dominant influence. This unique volume presents a clear explanation of heritability, the ongoing nature versus nurture debate and the evidence that is currently available. Starting at the beginning of the modern nature-nurture debate, with Darwin and Galton, this book describes how evolution posed a challenge to humanity by demonstrating that humans are animals, and how modern social science was necessitated when humans became an object of natural science. It clearly sets out the most common misconceptions such as the idea that heritability means that a trait is 'genetic' or that it is a justification for eugenics.
Understanding the New Solar System
by The Editors of Scientific AmericanAn exploration of our latest understanding of our solar system.
Understanding the Numbers in Depth of Anesthesia Monitors
by Ashraf A. DahabaIs there a unified definition of anesthesia? What exactly are we monitoring? Processed electroencephalography (pEEG) monitors may not reliably assess all anesthetic endpoints. This book explains how anesthesiologists should not blindly follow the displayed numbers when they adjust their anesthetic agents&’ doses. This book is based on the author's 30 years of experience researching the topic of Depth of Anesthesia (DOA) monitoring. Depth of Anesthesia monitors are pEEG Monitors. All conditions that would alter the EEG (these are many) would also alter the DOA displayed numbers so each reader should learn how to correctly interpret the displayed numbers. In many instances physicians are confronted with various paradoxical Depth of Anesthesia monitors displaying inaccurate readings that do not concur with &“clinically judged Anesthetic state&” whether arising from an underlying pathophysiology alteration of the patients&’ own EEG cerebral function or those due to shortcomings in the performance and design of the DoA. This book – very easy to read although the topic sounds very complicated – would like to represent a reference where anesthesiologists can go back to when they are confronted with such situations. Each chapter is focused on one contributing element that could influence depth of anesthesia monitoring. It reports cases or studies of displayed numbers that do not concur with clinically assessed depth of anesthesia; these are immediately followed by the documented scientific EEG explanations. A book that both younger and older anesthetists should read to better understand how to use DOA monitors in their daily practice and that very much simplifies the topic.
Understanding the Oceans: A Century of Ocean Exploration
by Tony Rice Colin Summerhayes Margaret DeaconUnderstanding the Oceans brings together an internationally distinguished group of authors to consider the enormous advances in marine science that have been achieved since the voyages of HMS Challenger a century ago. The book draws inspiration from the seminal contribution made by the research conducted on those voyages, and each contributor considers the significance of the findings, relating them to the exciting developments of today and tomorrow.
Understanding the Origin of Matter: Perspectives in Quantum Chromodynamics (Lecture Notes in Physics #999)
by David Blaschke Krzysztof Redlich Chihiro Sasaki Ludwik TurkoThis book aims at providing a solid basis for the education of the next generation of researchers in hot, dense QCD (Quantum ChromoDynamics) matter. This is a rapidly growing field at the interface of the smallest, i.e. subnuclear physics, and the largest scales, namely astrophysics and cosmology. The extensive lectures presented here are based on the material used at the training school of the European COST action THOR (Theory of hot matter in relativistic heavy-ion collisions).The book is divided in three parts covering ultrarelativistic heavy-ion collisions, several aspects related to QCD, and simulations of QCD and heavy-ion collisions. The scientific tools and methods discussed provide graduate students with the necessary skills to understand the structure of matter under extreme conditions of high densities, temperatures, and strong fields in the collapse of massive stars or a few microseconds after the big bang. In addition to the theory, the set of lectures presents hands-on material that includes an introduction to simulation programs for heavy-ion collisions, equations of state, and transport properties.
Understanding the Path from Classical to Quantum Mechanics (SpringerBriefs in Physics)
by Jaroslav ZamastilThe book is about the transition from classical to quantum mechanics, covering the historical development of this great leap, and explaining the concepts needed to understand it at a level suitable for undergraduate students. The first part of the book summarizes classical electrodynamics and the Hamiltonian formulation of classical mechanics, the two elements of classical physics which are crucial for understanding the classical to quantum transition. The second part loosely traces the historical development of the classical to quantum transition, starting with Einstein’s 1916 derivation of the Planck radiation law, continuing with the Ladenburg-Kramers-Born-Heisenberg dispersion theory and ending with Heisenberg’s magical 1925 paper which established quantum mechanics. The purpose of the book is partly historical, partly philosophical, but mainly pedagogical. It will appeal to a wide audience, from undergraduate students, for whom it can serve as a preparatory or supplementary text to standard textbooks, to physicists and historians interested in the historical development of science.
Understanding the Physics of Particle Accelerators: A Guide to Beam Dynamics Simulations Using ZGOUBI (Particle Acceleration and Detection)
by François MéotThis open access book introduces readers to the physics of particle accelerators, by means of beam dynamics simulations and exercises using the computer code ZGOUBI. The respective chapters are organized chronologically and trace the historical development of accelerators from electrostatic columns to storage rings, to the numerous variations on resonant acceleration and focusing techniques, while also addressing side aspects such as synchrotron radiation and spin dynamics. The book offers computer simulations in which readers can manipulate, guide, and accelerate charged particles and particle beams in most types of particle accelerator. By performing these simulation exercises, they will acquire a deeper understanding of charged particle beam optics, accelerator physics and technology, as well as the why and how of when to use one technology or the other. These exercises guide readers through a virtual world of accelerator and beam simulations, and involve e.g. manipulating beams for cancer therapy, producing synchrotron radiation for condensed matter research, accelerating polarized ion beams for nuclear physics research, etc. In addition to acquiring an enhanced grasp of physics, readers will discover the basic theoretical and practical aspects of particle accelerators’ main components: guiding and focusing magnets, radio-wave accelerating cavities, wigglers, etc.
Understanding the Process of Aging: The Roles of Mitochondria: Free Radicals, and Antioxidants
by Lester Packer Earique CaderasThis innovative reference explores a wide selection of topics associated with aging, providing a solid understanding of the significance and molecular basis of the aging process and charting the course of future research in the area. Stresses the interplay of mitochondria, mitochondrial DNA, oxidants, and antioxidants! Featuring the researc
Understanding the Properties of Matter
by Michael de PodestaUnderstanding the Properties of Matter: 2nd Edition takes a unique phenomenological approach to the presentation of matter, materials, and solid-state physics. After an overview of basic ideas and a reminder of the importance of measurement, the author considers in turn gases, solids, liquids, and phase changes. For each topic, the focus is on "what happens." After a preliminary examination of data on the properties of matter, the author raises, then addresses a series of questions concerning the data. It is only in answering these questions that he adopts the theoretical approach to the properties of matter. This approach can reawaken in readers the fascination for the subject that inspired some of the greatest physicists of our age. Examples and extensive exercises reinforce the concepts. A supporting Web site furnishes for free download a plethora of additional materials, including:" Supplementary chapters on the band theory of solids and the magnetic properties of solids" Copies of all the data talbes used in the book, in PDF and spreadsheet formats" Enlarged copies of all figures" A simple molecular dynamics simulation" Animations uillustrating important featrues of key equations" Answers to the end-of-chapter exercisesUnderstanding the Properties of Matter is an entertaining and innovative text accessible at the undergraduate level.
Understanding the Science of Food: From molecules to mouthfeel
by Emma Stirling Sharon CroxfordBeing able to understand the principles of food science is vital for the study of food, nutrition and the culinary arts. In this innovative text, the authors explain in straightforward and accessible terms the theory and application of chemistry to these fields.The key processes in food preparation and the chemistry behind them are described in detail, including denaturation and coagulation of proteins, gelatinisation, gelation and retrogradation of starches, thickening and gelling, browning reactions, emulsification, foams and spherification, chemical, mechanical and biological leaveners and fermentation and preservation. The text also describes the science of key cooking techniques, the science of the senses and the experience of food, food regulations and the future of healthy food. The origins of food are explored through a focus on the primary production of key staples and their journey to the table. Tips and advice from leading chefs as well as insights into emerging food science and cutting-edge nutrition research from around the world are included throughout, and reveal both the practical application of food chemistry and the importance of this field. Featuring explanatory diagrams and illustrations throughout, Understanding the Science of Food is destined to become an essential reference for both students and professionals.'An innovative and informative text that will address the need for a food science text suitable for nutrition and dietetics students in Australia.' - Katherine Hanna, Faculty of Health, Queensland University of Technology.'A unique and timely text that will be welcomed by students, instructors, and scientists in multiple disciplines. I am thrilled to see such a modern take on the subject, blending the fundamentals of food science and chemistry with the insights and experience of practitioners from the culinary arts.' - Patrick Spicer, lecturer and researcher in food science
Understanding the Tripartite Approach to Bayesian Divergence Time Estimation (Elements of Paleontology)
by Rachel C. Warnock April M. WrightPlacing evolutionary events in the context of geological time is a fundamental goal in paleobiology and macroevolution. In this Element we describe the tripartite model used for Bayesian estimation of time calibrated phylogenetic trees. The model can be readily separated into its component models: the substitution model, the clock model and the tree model. We provide an overview of the most widely used models for each component and highlight the advantages of implementing the tripartite model within a Bayesian framework.
Understanding the Universe
by George GreensteinA student-active introduction to astronomy, emphasizing inquiry learning so students will clearly understand our universe and the scientific method. Within-text and end-of-chapter questions check understanding of concepts and require the student to think critically through astronomy-based problems. 'Nature of Science' and 'Detectives on the Case' sections in each chapter encourage students to take on the role of a scientist and so develop an understanding of how scientific progress is made, leading students through a chain of arguments of forming and testing hypotheses, in the context of specific astronomical topics. By focusing on key topics, the student is able to develop a deeper understanding of the core areas of astronomy. Math is used to make intuitive points and kept simple by using a two-track system to first describe the logic of the calculation followed by a more detailed example. Simple illustrations support the text and step students through concepts visually.
Understanding the Universe: The Physics of the Cosmos from Quasars to Quarks
by Andrew NortonUnderstanding the Universe: The Physics of the Cosmos from Quasars to Quarks explores how all areas of physics, from the very smallest scales to the very largest, come together to form our current understanding of the Universe. It takes readers on a fascinating journey, from the Big Bang and how the Universe has evolved, to how it appears now, and the possibilities for how it will continue to evolve in the future. It also explores the latest exciting developments in the area and how they impact our understanding of the Universe, such as quantum chromodynamics, black holes, dark energy, and gravitational waves. Equally importantly, it explains how we have come to know all of this about the Universe and details the limitations of our current understanding. This book is accessible to all introductory undergraduate students interested in the physical sciences. It prioritises a non-mathematical approach so it can be understood by all students, with only two algebraic equations in the book and any numerical calculations shown are limited to simple arithmetic. Key Features: Combines current understanding of quantum physics and cosmology, and includes the latest exciting developments from the field. Provides an accessible introduction to the topic, focusing on a non-mathematical presentation. Presents a comprehensive narrative on the subject and a coherent story.
Understanding the Whole Child: Prenatal Development Through Adolescence
by Jennifer Paris Antoinette Ricardo Dawn RymondThis text is a presentation of how and why children grow, develop, and learn. We will look at how we change physically over time from conception through adolescence. We examine cognitive change, or how our ability to think and remember changes over the first 20 years or so of life. And we will look at how our emotions, psychological state, and social relationships change throughout childhood and adolescence.
Understanding, Assessing and Improving Farm Animal Welfare
by Luc MounierImproving welfare in farmed animals is good for productivity, consumer demand and, of course, the animals themselves. Covering the current scientific knowledge on the sensitivity and consciousness of animals, this translation of the Le Bien-être des animaux d'élevage series reviews how to understand, assess and then improve farm animal welfare. Beginning with the philosophical and legal history of the consideration of their well-being, it synthesizes this information to build a common reference so that we all share the same notion of what animal welfare actually is. It then evaluates the welfare assessment process, which must be as reliable and objective as possible and require the use of appropriate indicators. Fully outlined in reference documents, these are summarized at the level of specific farming situations for easy reference. Concluding with the different ways of improving animal welfare, the book takes a holistic approach, considering the animals' physical and social environment, the integrated management of their health, the relationship between human and animal, the management of animal suffering, and treatment of animals during transportation and slaughter. Suitable for students and researchers of animal agriculture, animal science and veterinary medicine, this book provides an approachable and comprehensive coverage of this important topic.
Understanding, Explanation, and Scientific Knowledge
by Kareem KhalifaFrom antiquity to the end of the twentieth century, philosophical discussions of understanding remained undeveloped, guided by a 'received view' that takes understanding to be nothing more than knowledge of an explanation. More recently, however, this received view has been criticized, and bold new philosophical proposals about understanding have emerged in its place. In this book, Kareem Khalifa argues that the received view should be revised but not abandoned. In doing so, he clarifies and answers the most central questions in this burgeoning field of philosophical research: what kinds of cognitive abilities are involved in understanding? What is the relationship between the understanding that explanations provide and the understanding that experts have of broader subject matters? Can there be understanding without explanation? How can one understand something on the basis of falsehoods? Is understanding a species of knowledge? What is the value of understanding?