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Parallel Worlds: A Journey Through Creation, Higher Dimensions, and the Future of the Cosmos
by Michio KakuThe national bestselling author of The God Equation takes us on a thrilling journey to explore black holes and time machines, multidimensional space and the possibility that parallel universes may lay alongside our own.&“A wonderful tour, with an expert guide.&” —Brian Greene, New York Times bestselling author of The Elegant Universe Kaku skillfully guides us through the latest innovations in string theory and its latest iteration, M-theory, which posits that our universe may be just one in an endless multiverse, a singular bubble floating in a sea of infinite bubble universes. If M-theory is proven correct, we may perhaps finally find answer to the question, &“What happened before the big bang?&” This is an exciting and unforgettable introduction into the new cutting-edge theories of physics and cosmology from one of the pre-eminent voices in the field.
Parameter-Centric Scaled FET Devices: Physics Based Perspectives and Attributes (Synthesis Lectures on Emerging Engineering Technologies)
by Nabil Shovon AshrafParameters that determine the performance of silicon-based Field Effect Transistors (FET) devices in the presence of degenerate doping, often are not modeled properly and so require precise analysis to improve modeling accuracy. The book is focused on the extraction of parameters for silicon-based FET models that critically determine the FET performance at room temperature as well as at very low temperatures. Emphasize is put on analysis that is based on the device physics, especially at low (cryogenic) temperatures. Performance of gate-all-around (GAA) nanowire FETs, and stacked nanosheet complementary FETs (C-FET) are also discussed.
Parameter Estimation of Nonlinear Random Medium by Scattered Electromagnetic Fields (Springer Tracts in Electrical and Electronics Engineering)
by Manisha Khulbe Harish ParthasarathyThis book is on the nonlinear random medium analysis that includes subtopics of terahertz imaging, inverse scattering, plasmonics, quantum optics/communication laser modes, and terahertz photonic antennas. Here in this book, a mathematical framework is developed to analyze the impact of dimensions and chemical potential on nano-antenna channels.
Parameter Redundancy and Identifiability (Chapman & Hall/CRC Interdisciplinary Statistics)
by Diana ColeStatistical and mathematical models are defined by parameters that describe different characteristics of those models. Ideally it would be possible to find parameter estimates for every parameter in that model, but, in some cases, this is not possible. For example, two parameters that only ever appear in the model as a product could not be estimated individually; only the product can be estimated. Such a model is said to be parameter redundant, or the parameters are described as non-identifiable. This book explains why parameter redundancy and non-identifiability is a problem and the different methods that can be used for detection, including in a Bayesian context. Key features of this book: Detailed discussion of the problems caused by parameter redundancy and non-identifiability Explanation of the different general methods for detecting parameter redundancy and non-identifiability, including symbolic algebra and numerical methods Chapter on Bayesian identifiability Throughout illustrative examples are used to clearly demonstrate each problem and method. Maple and R code are available for these examples More in-depth focus on the areas of discrete and continuous state-space models and ecological statistics, including methods that have been specifically developed for each of these areas This book is designed to make parameter redundancy and non-identifiability accessible and understandable to a wide audience from masters and PhD students to researchers, from mathematicians and statisticians to practitioners using mathematical or statistical models.
Parametric Array Loudspeakers: From Theory to Application
by Jun Yang Peifeng JiThis book highlights a comprehensive overview of research and technical advances related to parametric array loudspeakers (PALs), covering modeling and simulation, measurements, signal processing, beamsteering, and their implementations and applications. PALs that can achieve directional sound reproduction have received widespread attention from global researchers due to their advantages of narrow beam, highly directivity, and very small sidelobes. PALs have developed rapidly in theory and application and have been used in various commercial products. At present, PALs have become a research hotspot in the field of audio engineering. The book is a must-have guiding reference for researchers, professionals and graduate students who seek to conduct further research on PALs.
Parametric Experiments in Architecture: A Connection Joint Design for Sustainable Structures in Bamboo (UNIPA Springer Series)
by Andrea Mercurio Francesco Di PaolaThis book offers a comprehensive overview of the use of bamboo in the building industry. It systematically demonstrates bamboo’s utility in terms of its properties, describing the material properties of typical industrial bamboo products, and discussing their performance evaluation and optimization as building components and in the creation of building envelopes. The book presents the recent developments regarding the innovative ways to design and represent architecture through parametric survey tools, and describes the experimental geometrical-generative design process of a connection joint for free-form lightweight structures employing beams made of bamboo culms. It examines algorithmic-generative design themes, through processes of optimization, analysis, and geometrical-spatial verification, employing the potential of digital form-finding design and digital manufacturing techniques to validate the defined technological solution. This book appeals to scientists and professionals and is a valuable resource for civil engineers, designers and students interested in this unique plant material and its application in the building industry. Videos via app: download the SN More Media app for free, scan an image or a link with play button and access the videos directly on your smartphone or tablet.
A Parametric Framework for Modelling of Bioelectrical Signals (Series in BioEngineering)
by Yar M. MughalThis book examines non-invasive, electrical-based methods for disease diagnosis and assessment of heart function. In particular, a formalized signal model is proposed since this offers several advantages over methods that rely on measured data alone. By using a formalized representation, the parameters of the signal model can be easily manipulated and/or modified, thus providing mechanisms that allow researchers to reproduce and control such signals. In addition, having such a formalized signal model makes it possible to develop computer tools that can be used for manipulating and understanding how signal changes result from various heart conditions, as well as for generating input signals for experimenting with and evaluating the performance of e. g. signal extraction methods. The work focuses on bioelectrical information, particularly electrical bio-impedance (EBI). Once the EBI has been measured, the corresponding signals have to be modelled for analysis. This requires a structured approach in order to move from real measured data to the model of the corresponding signals. This book proposes a generic framework for this procedure. It can be used as a guide for modelling impedance cardiography (ICG) and impedance respirography (IRG) signals, as well as for developing the corresponding bio-impedance signal simulator (BISS).
Parametric Interval Algebraic Systems (Studies in Computational Intelligence #766)
by Iwona SkalnaThis self-contained book presents a framework for solving a general class of linear systems with coefficients being continuous functions of parameters varying within prescribed intervals. It also provides a comprehensive overview of the theory related to solving parametric interval linear systems and the basic properties of parametric interval matrices. In particular, it develops several new algorithms delivering sharp rigorous bounds for the solutions of such systems with full mathematical rigor. The framework employs the arithmetic of revised affine forms that enables the readers to handle dependent data. The book is intended not only for researchers interested in developing rigorous methods of numerical linear algebra, but also for engineers dealing with problems involving uncertain data. The theory discussed is also useful in various other fields of numerical analysis, in computer graphics, economics, computational geometry, computer-aided design, computer-assisted proofs, computer graphics, control theory, solving constraint satisfaction problems, and global optimization.
Parametric Resonance in Dynamical Systems
by Henk Nijmeijer Thor I. FossenParametric Resonance in Dynamical Systems discusses the phenomenon of parametric resonance and its occurrence in mechanical systems, vehicles, motorcycles, aircraft and marine craft, along micro-electro-mechanical systems. The contributors provides an introduction to the root causes of this phenomenon and its mathematical equivalent, the Mathieu-Hill equation. Also included is a discussion of how parametric resonance occurs on ships and offshore systems, and its frequency in mechanical and electrical systems. This volume is ideal for researchers and mechanical engineers working in application fields such as MEMS, maritime, aircraft and ground vehicle engineering.
The Paraná River Basin: Managing Water Resources to Sustain Ecosystem Services (Earthscan Series on Major River Basins of the World)
by Chris D. MetcalfeThis book provides insight into the hydrology, ecosystem services and management of water resources in the Paraná River basin, including the importance of water to the socio-economic development of the countries within the watershed. Running through Brazil. Paraguay and Argentina, the Paraná River and its watershed is home to some of South America's major population centers as well as important ecosystems threatened by development. At the same time, the river is a major resource driving the economies of the nations within its boundaries. This volume examines the impacts of environmental degradation, and the tradeoffs between the energy sector and the maintenance of ecosystem services. In particular, it focuses on the threats from development to sensitive ecosystems within the basin and the challenges of transboundary management of water resources. In addition to presenting wider perspectives on water management, the volume specifically covers water infrastructure, aquatic ecosystems, water quality, geomorphological influences and the impact of climate change. Finally, by assessing each country's current status in meeting the Sustainable Development Goals this volume provides a timely analysis as national governments within the basin are becoming increasingly concerned about the sustainability of the freshwater ecosystems within the Paraná River basin. This book will be of great interest to students and scholars of water and natural resource management, environmental policy, sustainable development and Latin American studies. It will also be relevant to water management professionals.
Paranoid Science: The Christian Right's War on Reality (Goldstein-Goren American Jewish History)
by Antony AlumkalExplores the Christian Right’s fierce opposition to science, explaining how and why its leaders came to see scientific truths as their enemyFor decades, the Christian Right’s high-profile clashes with science have made national headlines. From attempts to insert intelligent design creationism into public schools to climate change denial, efforts to “cure” gay people through conversion therapy, and opposition to stem cell research, the Christian Right has battled against science. How did this hostility begin and, more importantly, why has it endured?Antony Alumkal provides a comprehensive background on the war on science—how it developed and why it will continue to endure. Drawing upon Richard Hofstadter’s influential 1965 essay “The Paranoid Style in American Politics,” Antony Alumkal argues that the Christian Right adopts a similar paranoid style in their approach to science. Alumkal demonstrates that Christian Right leaders see conspiracies within the scientific establishment, with scientists not only peddling fraudulent information, but actively concealing their true motives from the American public and threatening to destroy the moral foundation of society. By rejecting science, Christian Right leaders create their own alternative reality, one that does not challenge their literal reading of the Bible. While Alumkal recognizes the many evangelicals who oppose the Christian Right’s agenda, he also highlights the consequences of the war on reality—both for the evangelical community and the broader American public. A compelling glimpse into the heart of the Christian Right’s anti-science agenda, Paranoid Science is a must-read for those who hope to understand the Christian Right’s battle against science, and for the scientists and educators who wish to stop it.
Paranormal America (second edition): Ghost Encounters, UFO Sightings, Bigfoot Hunts, and Other Curiosities in Religion and Culture
by Christopher D Bader Joseph O Baker F. Carson MenckenAn &“engrossing and intellectually stimulating&” portrait of the countless Americans who believe in paranormal phenomena (Journal of Religion and Culture). Popular culture makes clear that there&’s a seemingly insatiable public appetite for information and entertainment about what we call the paranormal, supernatural, or mystical. But how many Americans believe in the paranormal, and who are they? Based on extensive research and their own unique experiences, Christopher Bader, Joseph Baker, and Carson Mencken reveal that a significant number hold these beliefs, and that for better or worse, we undoubtedly live in a paranormal America.Paranormal America follows the authors as they participate in psychic and palm readings, have their auras photographed, join a Bigfoot hunt, follow a group of celebrity ghost hunters as they investigate claims of a haunted classroom, and visit a support group for alien abductees. The second edition also includes new and updated research based on findings from the Baylor Religion Survey regarding America&’s relationship with the paranormal. Drawing on these diverse and compelling sources of data, the book offers an engaging account of the social, personal, and statistical stories of American paranormal beliefs and experiences. It examines topics such as the popularity of paranormal beliefs in the United States, the ways in which these beliefs relate to each other, whether paranormal beliefs will give rise to a new religion, and how believers in the paranormal differ from &“average&” Americans. Brimming with fascinating anecdotes and provocative new findings, Paranormal America offers an entertaining yet authoritative examination of a growing segment of American religious culture. &“An engaging and eye-opening book that offers an abundance of new insights, dispelling some popular stereotypes and reaffirming others.&” —Roger Finke, Distinguished Professor of Sociology and Religious Studies, Pennsylvania State University
Paraoxonases in Inflammation, Infection, and Toxicology
by Srinivasa T. ReddyThe pivotal role of the Paraoxonases (PON) family in a variety of inflammatory diseases, e.g. atherosclerosis, in preventing the toxicity of organophosphorus insecticides and nerve agents and a variety of other compounds has made them an interesting target for both clinicians and scientists alike. Research into the paraoxonase (PON) family of enzymes (PON1, PON2 and PON3) has increased exponentially over the last five years especially following the initiation of paraoxonase conferences. The objectives of the 3rd ICP remains the same as the previous two conferences: to disseminate the latest aspects of research into the genetics, biochemistry, structural biology, regulation of PONs and their roles in inflammatory diseases e.g. atherosclerosis with expert lectures from 20 invited plenary lecturers and another 30-40 short and poster presentations from young investigators. The conference organizers anticipate a global attendance at the conference of between 150- 200 persons. Particular aspects of this conference will include the Bert N La Du Memorial Lecture, 3 Memorial Traveling Fellowships for Young Investigators and a round table discussion on the impact of the latest research on PON. UCLA provides a great venue for students, postdoctoral fellows and clinical scientists to interact with experts in the PON fields of study. The explosion of research into the PON family makes this a timely conference to review recent exciting advances in the field and provide an environment for cross-fertilization of ideas, particularly important for researchers new to the field.
Parasite and Disease Spread by Major Rivers on Earth: Past and Future Perspectives (Parasitology Research Monographs #12)
by Heinz Mehlhorn Sven KlimpelThis book focuses on waterborne pathogens and significant diseases occurring along major rivers around the globe, including key examples like the Amazonas, Mekong River and Nile. Written by leading international experts, it offers unique insights into local riverine infection risks in times of global warming, and addressing these through advances in diagnosis, health management and the development of simple but effective control measures. It also sheds light on why former societies collapsed due to transmitted diseases during periods of climate change, droughts and floods, to help establish effective preventive measures for the future. The book appeals to a wide readership, from scientists in the field of parasitology, infectious diseases and epidemiology, to healthcare managers and general readers with an interest in pathogen spread along the largest rivers on earth. It particularly highlights past and current control mechanisms in times of global warming and assesses potential future health hazards.
Parasite Biodiversity
by Robert Poulin Serge MorandThis comprehensive, groundbreaking book on the biodiversity of parasites offers a clear and accessible explanation of how parasite biodiversity provides insight into the history and biogeography of other organisms, the structure of ecosystems, and the processes that lead to the diversification of life.
The Parasite Chronicles: My Lifelong Odyssey Among The Parasites That Cause Human Disease
by Boo H. KwaThis book introduces the reader to the fascinating world of parasites that cause human disease. It is written in a first-person style relating anecdotes and personal encounters of parasites by the author. It tells stories about exotic parasites diseases, interesting factoids about the life history of unusual parasites species, and strange ways in which humans can become infected. However this is also a serious topic, as there is increasing movement of populations and goods occurring in a globalized world, resulting in previously exotic parasites being brought into new regions of the world. This book about parasite infections will be of interest to business travelers and tourists alike, and the book discusses simple common sense ways to avoid them.
Parasite Diversity and Diversification
by Serge Morand Boris R. Krasnov D. Timothy J. Littlewood Serge Morand Boris R. KrasnovThe development of molecular tools has dramatically increased our knowledge of parasite diversity and the vectors that transmit them. From viruses and protists to arthropods and helminths, each branch of the Tree of Life offers an insight into significant, yet cryptic, biodiversity. Alongside this, the studies of host-parasite interactions and parasitism have influenced many scientific disciplines, such as biogeography and evolutionary ecology, by using comparative methods based on phylogenetic information to unravel shared evolutionary histories. Parasite Diversity and Diversification brings together two active fields of research, phylogenetics and evolutionary ecology, to reveal and explain the patterns of parasite diversity and the diversification of their hosts. This book will encourage students and researchers in the fields of ecology and evolution of parasitism, as well as animal and human health, to integrate phylogenetics into the investigation of parasitism in evolutionary ecology, health ecology, medicine and conservation.
Parasite Genomics: Methods and Protocols (Methods in Molecular Biology #2369)
by Luis M. de Pablos Javier SotilloThis detailed book provides a comprehensive series of innovative research techniques and methodologies applied to the parasite genomics research area, all applying different approaches to analyzing parasite genomes and furthering the study of genetic complexity and the mechanisms of regulation. Beginning with chapters on novel sequencing and the bioinformatics pipeline, the volume continues by exploring diagnostic approaches using genomic tools, host-parasite interactions, as well as the genomics of parasite-derived extracellular vesicles. Written for the highly successful Methods in Molecular Biology series, 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 practical, Parasite Genomics: Methods and Protocols creates a detailed picture of genomic approaches for researchers seeking a better understanding of characterizing parasite nucleic acid content.
Parasite Genomics Protocols
by Sara E. MelvillePioneering bench researchers describe in detail the cutting-edge techniques they have developed for analyzing the genomes and gene products in a diverse range of protozoan and metazoan parasites. These readily reproducible techniques can be used in genomic, functional genomic, and post-genomic studies and include transfection methods and vectors for several protozoan parasites, global analysis using microarrays, gene ablation using RNA interference, gene knockout, mutagenesis, and chromosome manipulation. Some of the protocols require DNA sequence data, whereas others were developed independently of whole-genome sequence data. The protocols presented follow the successful Methods in Molecular BiologyTM series format, each one offering step-by-step laboratory instructions, an introduction outlining the principle behind the technique, lists of equipment and reagents, and tips on troubleshooting and the avoidance of known pitfalls.
Parasite Genomics Protocols
by Christopher PeacockParasite Genomics Protocols, Second Edition expands upon the previous edition with current, detailed methodologies that have been adapted to research parasites in the post genomic era. With new chapters on parasite studies, helminth pathogens, and protocols for undertaking other large-scale 'omics' methodologies. 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 practical, Parasite Genomics Protocols, Second Edition offers a wide-ranging collection of diverse methods and protocols for further study into these unique organisms.
Parasite Rex: Inside the Bizarre World of Nature's Most Dangerous Creatures
by Carl ZimmerCombining the literary sensibility of David Quammen with the scientific rigor of Stephen Jay Gould, Carl Zimmer reveals the power, danger, and beauty of the surprising creatures who dominate the earth: parasites.For centuries, parasites have lived in nightmares, horror stories, and the darkest shadows of science. In Parasite Rex, Carl Zimmer takes readers on a fantastic voyage into the secret universe of these extraordinary life-forms—which are not only among the most highly evolved on Earth, but make up the majority of life&’s diversity. Traveling from the steamy jungles of Costa Rica to the parasite-riddled war zone of southern Sudan, Zimmer introduces an array of amazing creatures that invade their hosts, prey on them from within, and control their behavior. He also vividly describes parasites that can change DNA, rewire the brain, make men more distrustful and women more outgoing, and turn hosts into the living dead. This comprehensive, gracefully written book brings parasites out into the open and uncovers what they can teach us all about the most fundamental survival tactics in the universe—the laws of Parasite Rex.
The Parasite-Stress Theory of Values and Sociality
by Randy Thornhill Corey L. FincherThis book develops and tests an ecological and evolutionary theory of the causes of human values--the core beliefs that guide people's cognition and behavior--and their variation across time and space around the world. We call this theory the parasite-stress theory of values or the parasite-stress theory of sociality. The evidence we present in our book indicates that both a wide span of human affairs and major aspects of human cultural diversity can be understood in light of variable parasite (infectious disease) stress and the range of value systems evoked by variable parasite stress. The same evidence supports the hypothesis that people have psychological adaptations that function to adopt values dependent upon local infectious-disease adversity. The authors have identified key variables, variation in infectious disease adversity and in the core values it evokes, for understanding these topics and in novel and encompassing ways. Although the human species is the focus in the book, evidence presented in the book shows that the parasite-stress theory of sociality informs other topics in ecology and evolutionary biology such as variable family organization and speciation processes and biological diversity in general in non-human animals.
Parasiten: Insekten, Würmer, Einzeller – verdrängte Plagegeister? (essentials)
by Friedrich FrischknechtFriedrich Frischknecht gibt einen interessanten Einblick in die Lebensweisen von Parasiten. Vom kleinen Erreger der Malaria zum Bandwurm, vom Durchfall zur Verhaltensänderung des Wirts stellt er die faszinierende Welt der Parasiten vor. Dabei verdeutlicht er, warum Parasitismus eine so erfolgreiche Lebensweise darstellt und wie wir es trotzdem schaffen könnten, die schlimmsten Parasiten auszurotten.Der Autor:Prof. Dr. Friedrich Frischknecht hat nach dem Studium der Biochemie an der Freien Universität Berlin am Europäischen Molekularbiologischen Laboratorium (EMBL) in Heidelberg über Pockenviren promoviert. Nach einem Forschungsaufenthalt am Institut Pasteur in Paris leitet er seit 2005 eine Forschungsgruppe am Universitätsklinikum in Heidelberg und beschäftigt sich mit den molekularen Grundlagen der Bewegung von Malariaparasiten.
Parasites: Tales of Humanity's Most Unwelcome Guests
by Rosemary DrisdellePARASITES ARE ALL AROUND US. Consider the ones that infect humans: hundreds of species live in human intestines, skin, lungs, muscle, brain, liver, blood, and everywhere else they can find a niche. Some of these parasites can live only in humans. When you realize that virtually every species of animal has a similarly large collection, and then acknowledge that plants have many as well, you begin to understand how numerous parasites really are. Even parasites have parasites.
Parasites: Insects, Worms, Single-Celled Organisms – Forgotten Pests? (essentials)
by Friedrich FrischknechtFriedrich Frischknecht provides an interesting insight into the lifestyles of parasites. From the tiny agent of malaria to the tapeworm, from diarrhea to changes in the host's behavior, he presents the fascinating world of parasites. In doing so, he clarifies why parasitism represents such a successful way of life and how we might still manage to eradicate the worst parasites.