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Diversity and Biotechnology of Ectomycorrhizae
by Ajit Varma Mahendra RaiEctomycorrhizal fungi play multifunctional roles during symbioses with higher plants. They can serve as bioprotectors, biofertilizers, bioremediators and stress indicators. Further, they are the true "mycoindicators" of forest ecosystems, where an enormous diversity of ectomycorrhizal fungi can be found. Some ectomycorrhizal fungi also produce edible sporocarps, i.e., fruiting bodies, which are important for the food industry. Ectomycorrhizal fungi also produce various metal chelating molecules, which are of remarkable biotechnological significance and which also secrete useful secondary metabolites. Molecular approaches are required for the identification and differentiation of fungi forming symbioses with higher plants, while molecular tools are important to understand how genes are expressed during symbiosis with higher plants. Students, researchers and teachers of botany, mycology, microbiology, forestry, and biotechnology will find a valuable source of information in this Soil Biology volume.
Emotion-Oriented Systems
by Catherine Pelachaud Paolo Petta Roddy CowieEmotion pervades human life in general, and human communication in particular, and this sets information technology a challenge. Traditionally, IT has focused on allowing people to accomplish practical tasks efficiently, setting emotion to one side. That was acceptable when technology was a small part of life, but as technology and life become increasingly interwoven we can no longer ask people to suspend their emotional nature and habits when they interact with technology. The European Commission funded a series of related research projects on emotion and computing, culminating in the HUMAINE project which brought together leading academic researchers from the many related disciplines. This book grew out of that project, and its chapters are arranged according to its working areas: theories and models; signals to signs; data and databases; emotion in interaction; emotion in cognition and action; persuasion and communication; usability; and ethics and good practice. The fundamental aim of the book is to offer researchers an overview of the related areas, sufficient for them to do credible work on affective or emotion-oriented computing. The book serves as an academically sound introduction to the range of disciplines involved - technical, empirical and conceptual - and will be of value to researchers in the areas of artificial intelligence, psychology, cognition and user--machine interaction.
Optical Fluorescence Microscopy
by Alberto DiasproIn the last decade, fluorescence microscopy has evolved from a classical "retrospective" microscopy approach into an advanced imaging technique that allows the observation of cellular activities in living cells with increased resolution and dimensions. A bright new future has arrived as the nano era has placed a whole new array of tools in the hands of biophysicists who are keen to go deeper into the intricacies of how biological systems work. Following an introduction to the complex world of optical microscopy, this book covers topics such as the concept of white confocal, nonlinear optical microscopy, fluctuation spectroscopies, site-specific labeling of proteins in living cells, imaging molecular physiology using nanosensors, measuring molecular dynamics, muscle braking and stem cell differentiation.
Optical Fluorescence Microscopy: From the Spectral to the Nano Dimension
by Alberto DiasproIn the last decade, fluorescence microscopy has evolved from a classical “retrospective” microscopy approach into an advanced imaging technique that allows the observation of cellular activities in living cells with increased resolution and dimensions. A bright new future has arrived as the nano era has placed a whole new array of tools in the hands of biophysicists who are keen to go deeper into the intricacies of how biological systems work. Following an introduction to the complex world of optical microscopy, this book covers topics such as the concept of white confocal, nonlinear optical microscopy, fluctuation spectroscopies, site-specific labeling of proteins in living cells, imaging molecular physiology using nanosensors, measuring molecular dynamics, muscle braking and stem cell differentiation.
Photonic Structures Inspired by Nature
by Mathias KolleUnlike most natural colours that are based on pigment absorption, the striking iridescent and intense colouration of many butterflies, birds or beetles stems from the interaction of light with periodic sub-micrometer surface or volume patterns, so called "photonic structures". These "structural colours" are increasingly well understood, but they are difficult to create artificially and exploit technologically. In this thesis the field of natural structural colours and biomimetic photonic structures is covered in a wide scope, ranging from plant photonics to theoretical optics. It demonstrates diffractive elements on the petal surfaces of many flowering plant species; these form the basis for the study of the role of structural colours in pollinator attraction. Self-assembly techniques, combined with scale able nanofabrication methods, were used to create complex artificial photonic structures inspired by those found in nature. In particular, the colour effect of a Papilio butterfly was mimicked and, by variation of its design motive, enhanced. All photonic effects described here are underpinned by state-of-the-art model calculations.
Human Factors im Cockpit
by Joachim Scheiderer Hans-Joachim EbermannDie Hauptaufgabe eines Verkehrspiloten besteht darin, sein Flugzeug sicher von A nach B zu bringen. Dabei ist das Wissen um eine optimale Unfallprävention noch immer verbesserungsfähig. In dem Buch wird dargelegt, wann und unter welchen Umständen Unfälle passieren und wie sie sich vermeiden lassen. Demnach dient insbesondere das Crew Ressource Management (CRM) der Unfallprävention. Die Autoren, fast ausnahmslos Verkehrspiloten, definieren die Prinzipien des CRM und zeigen anschließend auf, wie dessen Inhalte in die Praxis übertragen werden können.
Hydropneumatic Suspension Systems
by Wolfgang BauerHydropneumatic suspensions systems combine the excellent properties of gas springs with the favourable damping properties of hydraulic fluids. The advantages of these systems are particularly appropriate for automotive applications, such as passenger cars, trucks and agricultural equipment. In this book, Dr. Bauer provides an extensive overview of hydropneumatic suspension systems. Starting with a comparison of different types of suspension systems, the author subsequently describes the theoretical background associated with spring and damping characteristics of hydropneumatic systems and furthermore explains the design of the most important system components. Additionally he gives an overview of level control systems and various special functions. Finally the technology is illustrated by design examples and the outlook for future hydropneumatic suspensions is discussed.
Behavioral Neurobiology of Eating Disorders (Current Topics in Behavioral Neurosciences #6)
by Roger A.H. Adan Walter H. KayeThe intention of this book was to have investigators describe an expert opinion on their field of research and cutting-edge work in their laboratory on the neurobiology and treatment of eating disorders.
Biological Functions for Information and Communication Technologies: Theory and Inspiration (Studies in Computational Intelligence #320)
by Hidefumi SawaiBy incorporating biologically-inspired functions into ICT, various types of new-generation information and communication systems can be created. Just some example of areas already benefiting from such design inspiration are network architectures, information processing, molecular communication, and complex network modeling for solving real world-problems. This book provides the theoretical basis for understanding these developments and explains their practical applications. Highlighted inserts appears throughout to help readers to understand the very latest topics in these emerging research fields. The book ends with a more philosophical discussion on how new ICT solutions can be found by looking at analogous systems in biology. This new way of thinking may help researchers and practitioners to apply innovative ideas in developing next-generation technologies.
Principles of Star Formation
by Peter BodenheimerUnderstanding star formation is one of the key fields in present-day astrophysics. This book treats a wide variety of the physical processes involved, as well as the main observational discoveries, with key points being discussed in detail. The current star formation in our galaxy is emphasized, because the most detailed observations are available for this case. The book presents a comparison of the various scenarios for star formation, discusses the basic physics underlying each one, and follows in detail the history of a star from its initial state in the interstellar gas to its becoming a condensed object in equilibrium. Both theoretical and observational evidence to support the validity of the general evolutionary path are presented, and methods for comparing the two are emphasized. The author is a recognized expert in calculations of the evolution of protostars, the structure and evolution of disks, and stellar evolution in general. This book will be of value to graduate students in astronomy and astrophysics as well as to active researchers in the field.
Principles of Star Formation (Astronomy and Astrophysics Library)
by Peter BodenheimerUnderstanding star formation is one of the key fields in present-day astrophysics. This book treats a wide variety of the physical processes involved, as well as the main observational discoveries, with key points being discussed in detail. The current star formation in our galaxy is emphasized, because the most detailed observations are available for this case. The book presents a comparison of the various scenarios for star formation, discusses the basic physics underlying each one, and follows in detail the history of a star from its initial state in the interstellar gas to its becoming a condensed object in equilibrium. Both theoretical and observational evidence to support the validity of the general evolutionary path are presented, and methods for comparing the two are emphasized. The author is a recognized expert in calculations of the evolution of protostars, the structure and evolution of disks, and stellar evolution in general. This book will be of value to graduate students in astronomy and astrophysics as well as to active researchers in the field.
Future Visions on Biomedicine and Bioinformatics 2
by Luis Kun Laura M. Roa Denis Carroll Lodewijk Bos Andrew MarshSwamy Laxminarayan was an outstanding researcher active in many diverse fields of science and technology. He was one of the most prominent biomedical scientists and his ideas influenced the Biomedical Technology substantially. This book tries to provide an overview on the multiple achievements of Swamy Laxminarayan. It presents a collection of his most outstanding publications and an overview on his outstanding life. This Volume is the second part of the liber amicorum in Memory of Swamy Laxminarayan.
Standards in der Medienproduktion
by Thomas Hoffmann-Walbeck Gottfried Zimmermann Marko Hedler Jan-Peter Homann Alexander Henka Sebastian Riegel Ansgar Gerlicher Martin Goik Christophe StrobbeIn dem einzigen deutschen Fachbuch, das den gesamten Premedia-Bereich abdeckt, liefern die Autoren Hintergrundwissen für die Produktionsprozesse und erläutern die aktuellen Standards. Dazu gehören die Druckvorstufe und die XML- und HTML-Techniken ebenso wie PDF, Colormanagement und JDF. Mit dem Band vermitteln die Autoren ihren Lesern ein grundlegendes Verständnis der Premedia-Prozesse. Die Beschreibung der Standards und Prozesse steht dabei im Vordergrund.
Investigations of Field Dynamics in Laser Plasmas with Proton Imaging
by Thomas SokollikLaser-driven proton beams are still in their infancy but already have some outstanding attributes compared to those produced in conventional accelerators. One such attribute is the typically low beam emittance. This allows excellent resolution in imaging applications like proton radiography. This thesis describes a novel imaging technique - the proton streak camera - that the author developed and first used to measure both the spatial and temporal evolution of ultra-strong electrical fields in laser-driven plasmas. Such investigations are of paramount importance for the understanding of laser-plasma interactions and, thus, for optimization of laser-driven particle acceleration. In particular, the present work investigated micrometer-sized spherical targets after laser irradiation. The confined geometry of plasmas and fields was found to influence the kinetic energy and spatial distribution of accelerated ions. This could be shown both in experimental radiography images and and in numerical simulations, one of which was selected for the cover page of Physical Review Letters.
Principles of Stellar Interferometry
by Andreas GlindemannThe imaging process in stellar interferometers is explained starting from first principles on wave propagation and diffraction. Wave propagation through turbulence is described in detail using Kolmogorov statistics. The impact of turbulence on the imaging process is discussed both for single telescopes and for interferometers. Correction methods (adaptive optics and fringe tracking) are presented including wavefront sensing/fringe sensing methods and closed loop operation. Instrumental techniques like beam combination and visibility measurements (modulus and phase) as well as Nulling and heterodyne interferometry are described. The book closes with examples of observing programmes linking the theory with individual astrophysical programmes.
Internationalisierung in der Kontraktlogistik
by Margret Borchert Johanna Heuwing-EckerlandAuf dem Gebiet der Kontraktlogistik besteht eine große Diskrepanz zwischen betrieblicher Praxis und wissenschaftlichem Diskurs. Die Autoren arbeiten das Themenfeld anhand von Theorien des Internationalisierungsprozesses und empirischen Untersuchungen wissenschaftlich auf und konzentrieren sich dabei auf kleine und mittlere Unternehmen. Die Ergebnisse wurden in einem praxisorientierten, Leitfaden leicht verständlich aufbereitet - mit einem Überblick über Methoden, mit Checklisten, weiterführender Literatur sowie relevanten Internetlinks.
Biotechnology in China II: Chemicals, Energy and Environment (Advances in Biochemical Engineering/Biotechnology #122)
by Jian Chen Pingkai Ouyang G. T. TsaoPast, Present, and Future Industrial Biotechnology in China, by Zhenjiang Li, Xiaojun Ji, Suli Kan, Hongqun Qiao, Min Jiang, Dingqiang Lu, Jun Wang, He Huang, Honghua Jia, Pingkai Ouyuang, and Hanjie Ying.- Organic Chemicals from Bioprocesses in China, by Jin Huang, Lei Huang, Jianping Lin, Zhinan Xu, and Peilin Cen.- Biofuels in China, by Tianwei Tan, Jianliang Yu, Jike Lu, and Tao Zhang.- Bioreactors and Bioseparation, by Siliang Zhang, Xuejun Cao, Ju Chu, Jiangchao Qian, and Yingping Zhuang.- Environmental Biotechnology in China, by Shuang Jiang Liu , Lei Liu , Muhammad Tausif Chaudhry , Lei Wang , Ying Guang Chen , Qi Zhou , He Liu , and Jian Chen.- Traditional Chinese Biotechnology, by Yan Xu , Dong Wang , Wen Lai Fan , Xiao Qing Mu, and Jian Chen.- Modern Biotechnology in China, by Qing-Zhao Wang and Xue-Ming Zhao.
Wohlstand ohne Kinder?
by Golo Henseke Matthias Czechl Thusnelda TivigDie Autoren gehen von drei möglichen Strategien zur Bewältigung der Folgen des demografischen Wandels aus und untersuchen eine davon eingehend: die Erhöhung der Kinderzahl. Sie beantworten die Frage, warum die Geburtenziffer in Deutschland als zu gering erachtet wird und klären damit komplizierte Zusammenhänge zwischen Demographie und Wachstum auf. Anschließend untersuchen sie anhand vergleichender Studien, welche Rahmenbedingungen einer höheren Kinderzahl zuträglich wären. Daraus leiten die Autoren Handlungsempfehlungen an die Politik ab.
Non-State Regulatory Regimes
by Myriam SennNon-State Regulatory Regimes explores how the concept of regulation continues to evolve. The focus is placed on those forms of regulation that are different from state regulation or present alternatives to state regulation. Departing from an analysis of the goals and policies of the traditional regulatory state, the emergence of 'regulation by other means' is examined. The approach is interdisciplinary encompassing various perspectives be they legal, political, international relations-based, economic, or sociological. The task of comprehending non-state regulation is a daunting one. To date, a number of essays already exist, which concentrate on specific aspects of the issue. In comparison to these essays, this study is innovative in that it applies a holistic view. Linking public policy approaches to regulation, it draws a theoretical path to understanding the emergence and persistence of non-state jurisdictional assertions and regulatory regimes.
Electron-Phonon Interaction in Conventional and Unconventional Superconductors
by Pegor AynajianThe problem of conventional, low-temperature superconductivity has been regarded as solved since the seminal work of Bardeen, Cooper, and Schrieffer (BCS) more than 50 years ago. However, the theory does not allow accurate predictions of some of the most fundamental properties of a superconductor, including the superconducting energy gap on the Fermi surface. This thesis describes the development and scientific implementation of a new experimental method that puts this old problem into an entirely new light. The nominee has made major contributions to the development and implementation of a new experimental method that enhances the resolution of spectroscopic experiments on dispersive lattice-vibrational excitations (the "glue" responsible for Cooper pairing of electrons in conventional superconductors) by more than two orders of magnitude. Using this method,he has discovered an unexpected relationship between the superconducting energy gap and the geometry of the Fermi surface in the normal state, both of which leave subtle imprints in the lattice vibrations that could not be resolved by conventional spectroscopic methods. He has confirmed this relationship on two elemental superconductors and on a series of metallic alloys. This indicates that a mechanism qualitatively beyond the standard BCS theory determines the magnitude and anisotropy of the superconducting gap.
Innovation, Growth and Competitiveness
by Peter Nijkamp Iulia SiedschlagThis book investigates dynamic regions in the context of greater global interaction in a world economy increasingly driven by knowledge and innovation. It offers novel empirical evidence on the underlying factors of the growth performance of these spaces. In particular, the following questions are addressed: What role is there for research, education and innovation in the development strategies of the dynamic growth regions? What are the risks and consequences of dynamic growth on patterns of world growth and development, competitiveness, inequalities, and convergence? What development strategies should be promoted at national and international levels to promote a growing and more sustainable world economy? What are the implications of the emerging new competitors for Europe's competitiveness? Using an innovative, integrated framework of analysis, the contributions in this book combine a wide array of complex theoretical and methodological approaches.
Nano/Micro Biotechnology
by Isao Endo Teruyuki NagamunePart I The Nano-Scale Biological Systems in Nature; Molecular bio-motors in living cells - by T. Nishizaka; The form designed by viral genome - by K. Onodera; Part II Detection and Characterization Technology; Atomic force microscopy applied to nano-mechanics of the cell - by A. Ikai; Design, synthesis and biological application of fluorescent sensor molecules for cellular imaging - by K. Kikuchi; Dynamic visualization of cellular signaling - by Q. Ni and J. Zhang; Part III Fabrication Technology; Surface acoustic wave atomizer and electrostatic deposition - by Y. Yamagata; Electrospray deposition of biomolecules by V.N. Morozov; Part IV Processing Technology; Droplet handling - by T.Torii; Integrated microfluidic systems - by S. Kaneda and T. Fujii; Part V Applications; A novel non-viral gene delivery system: Multifunctional envelope-type nano device - by H. Hatakeyama, H. Akita, K. Kogure, and H. Harashima; Biosensors - by M. Saito, H.M. Hiep, N. Nagatani, and E.Tamiya; Micro bioreactors - by Sato and T. Kitamori
Dynamics of Nonlinear Time-Delay Systems
by Dharmapuri Vijayan Senthilkumar Muthusamy LakshmananSynchronization of chaotic systems, a patently nonlinear phenomenon, has emerged as a highly active interdisciplinary research topic at the interface of physics, biology, applied mathematics and engineering sciences. In this connection, time-delay systems described by delay differential equations have developed as particularly suitable tools for modeling specific dynamical systems. Indeed, time-delay is ubiquitous in many physical systems, for example due to finite switching speeds of amplifiers in electronic circuits, finite lengths of vehicles in traffic flows, finite signal propagation times in biological networks and circuits, and quite generally whenever memory effects are relevant. This monograph presents the basics of chaotic time-delay systems and their synchronization with an emphasis on the effects of time-delay feedback which give rise to new collective dynamics. Special attention is devoted to scalar chaotic/hyperchaotic time-delay systems, and some higher order models, occurring in different branches of science and technology as well as to the synchronization of their coupled versions. Last but not least, the presentation as a whole strives for a balance between the necessary mathematical description of the basics and the detailed presentation of real-world applications.
WOLEDs and Organic Photovoltaics
by Vivian W. YamThe search for renewable energy sources and the efficient utilization of energy have been the most important research areas in modern science and technology. The design and development of materials that can contribute to light-harvesting, solar energy conversion and photovoltaics are important areas of research. Also of great importance is the exploration of WOLEDs for solid state lighting that could lead to a more efficient utilization of energy. This monograph consists of a collection of contributions from prominent leading scientists in the area, initiated by the organization of the SRT Workshop on WOLEDs and Organic Photovoltaics at The University of Hong Kong in January 2009. This represents a unique and irresistibly attractive account and reference for researchers in the field of WOLEDs and organic photovoltaics both from academia and industry.
Nanostructure Semiconductor Optical Amplifiers
by Hamed Baghban Ali Rostami Reza Maram"Nanostructure Semiconductor Optical Amplifiers" reviews all-optical processing methods currently available and presents semiconductor optical amplifiers (SOAs) as a new building block for this purpose. The authors discuss the overcomes of high frequency operation of SOAs and propose a new all-optical pumping method for the implementation of semiconductor optical amplifiers.