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Role of Mutation Breeding In Floriculture Industry
by S.K DattaThis monograph provides a comprehensive review of many aspects of current interest and progress on mutation research on vegetatively propagated ornamentals. It covers almost all aspects of induced mutagenesis on ornamental plants. Chapters in this title provides information about mutation technology for the development of new ornamental varieties. Taking all aspects together, it is an excellent reference book of updated information on mutation breeding on vegetatively propagated ornamentals. Floriculture has become a very important industry in many countries as a result of science-based techniques and a steady supply of improved plant materials. The induced mutation is now recognized as well as a standardized valuable tool for the development of new varieties. The book provides an authoritative review account of all important aspects related to inducing mutagenesis in the field of ornamental crops. The primary objective of the book is to give a coherent and concise account of earlier work with an emphasis on recent developments. The knowledge generated so far has been reviewed in this book which can work as a knowledge base to prepare guidelines for future planning of successful application of mutation technology for the floriculture industry. The information in the book is an excellent informative document for researchers, teachers, students, and breeders for understanding the application of induced mutations and planning future strategies for the development of new ornamental varieties for the floriculture industry.
The Role of Nanoparticles in Plant Nutrition under Soil Pollution: Nanoscience in Nutrient Use Efficiency (Sustainable Plant Nutrition in a Changing World)
by Neetu Sharma Vishnu D. Rajput Tatiana Minkina Krishan K. VermaNanotechnology has shown great potential in all spheres of life. With the increasing pressure to meet the food demands of rapidly increasing population, thus, novel innovation and research are required in agriculture. The principles of nanotechnology can be implemented to meet the challenges faced by agricultural demands. Major challenges include the loss of nutrients in the soil and nutrient-deficient plants, which result in a lower crop yield and quality. Subsequently, consumption of such crops leads to malnourishment in humans, especially in underprivileged and rural populations. One convenient approach to tackle nutrient deficiency in plants is via the use of fertilizers; however, this method suffers from lower uptake efficiency in plants. Another approach to combat nutrient deficiency in humans is via the use of supplements and diet modifications; however, these approaches are less affordably viable in economically challenged communities and in rural areas. Therefore, the use of nano-fertilizers to combat this problem holds the greatest potential. Additionally, nanotechnology can be used to meet other challenges in agriculture including enhancing crop yield, protection from insect pests and animals, and by use of nano-pesticides and nano-biosensors to carry out the remediation of polluted soils. The future use of nanomaterials in soil ecosystems will be influenced by their capability to interact with soil constituents and the route of nanoparticles into the environment includes both natural and anthropogenic sources. The last decade has provided increasing research on the impact and use of nanoparticles in plants, animals, microbes, and soils, and yet these studies often lacked data involving the impact of nanoparticles on biotic and abiotic stress factors. This book provides significant recent research on the use of nano-fertilizers, which can have a major impact on components of an ecosystem. This work should provide a basis to further study these potential key areas in order to achieve sustainable and safe application of nanoparticles in agriculture.
The Role of Natural Antioxidants in Brain Disorders (Food Bioactive Ingredients)
by Ali Imran Ghulam HussainOxidative stress and neuroinflammation are considered causative factors in various neurological disorders such as Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s diseases. Antioxidants are chemicals that bind with oxidative species and nullify their effect from causing damage to biological molecules. Endogenous antioxidants are produced by our body, however most of them are obtained from external sources, primarily through diet, called dietary antioxidants. Major sources of antioxidants are brightly colored fruits, vegetables, cereals, legumes, and herbs. Other very effective sources are berries, green tea, and dark chocolate. These compounds have the potential to hinder neurodegeneration, reduce neuronal death and improve memory as well as cognitive functions. Based on the complex nature of antioxidants and oxidative stress, particular antioxidants such as vitamin E, vitamin C or β-carotene are beneficial in protecting cells, organs and tissues against oxidative damage.The Role of Natural Antioxidants in Brain Disorders describes various neuroprotective effects and their physiological phenomenon mediated by antioxidants to maintain and regulate the general health biomarkers against brain disorders. The important role of antioxidants, diet and lifestyle in managing brain disorders is covered, as is their use in conjunction with conventional therapies against oxidative stress. Both exogenous and endogenous antioxidants are explored in full. By focusing on the role of oxidative stress as a triggering mechanism for various brain disorders and the use of antioxidant foods in conjunction with traditional therapies in combating and preventing them, this is a valuable source for researchers in food science, nutrition, health science and physiology.
The Role Of Naval Forces In The Global War On Terror
by National Research Council of the National AcademiesThe growth of the terrorism threat to the nation’s security has created significant strategic challenges for U.S. armed forces in fighting this global war on terrorism (GWOT). For the Navy, the challenges have centered on developing maritime capabilities to prosecute the GWOT as far forward as possible. To assist the Navy’s planning in this area, the former Chief of Naval Operations requested the NRC to conduct an assessment of the adequacy of and prospects for improving the role of Naval Forces in the GWOT. The study developed a defense-in-depth framework as the organizing principle for the report. The report contains information as described in 5 U.S.C. 552(b) and therefore could not be released to the public in its entirety. The public version consists of an executive summary that presents an assessment of the transformation of naval forces for addressing the GWOT; a brief description of the defense-in-depth framework; and a list of findings and major recommendations.
Role of Nutrients in Neurological Disorders (Nutritional Neurosciences)
by Senthilkumar Rajagopal Saravanan Ramachandran Geethalakshmi Sundararaman Swarnalatha Gadde VenkataThis book provides the latest research on the role of nutrients in the prevention and treatment of neurological disorders. It discusses dietary supplements and dietary restrictions for combating neurological disorders, including Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, stroke, and epilepsy. The book also explains the impact of different nutrients such as herbal products, algae, micronutrients in stimulating the brain and central nervous system during abnormal functions. It covers the effect of the nutrients on the function of neurotransmitters, their stimulatory effect in autism, dementia, Alzheimer’s, and other neuropathological states. The book also defines the mechanistic effects of neuroprotective and psycho protective effects of natural food in repairing brain damage. This book is essential reading for neuroscientists and neurologists, and healthcare professionals.
The Role of Organismal Oxidative Stress in the Ecology and Life-History Evolution of Animals (Fascinating Life Sciences)
by David CostantiniThis book illustrates the role of cellular oxidative stress as one of the most important physiological cornerstones in the evolution of biodiversity. The first part of the book provides the fundamentals to navigate the field and analyse the cross-talk between oxidative status homeostasis and other fundamental organismal functions, such as immunity and stress physiology. The second part of the book argues that oxidative stress underpins the astonishing diversity of adaptations to the environments and the evolution of life-history strategies, from growth to reproduction. Unravelling the (un)expected ways through which the need of regulating the organismal oxidative status has influenced the evolution of life, this book presents a novel integrative way of thinking about how a cellular mechanism has shaped the evolution of life and death.
Role of Oxidative Stress in Pathophysiology of Diseases
by Pawan K. Maurya Kamal DuaThis book illustrates the importance and significance of oxidative stress in the pathophysiology of various human diseases. The book initially introduces the phenomenon of oxidative stress, basic chemical characteristics of the species involved and summarizes the cellular oxidant and anti-oxidant system and the cellular effects and metabolism of the oxidative stress. In addition, it reviews the current understanding of the potential impact of oxidative stress on telomere shortening, aging, and age-related diseases. It also examines the role of oxidative stress in chronic diseases, including cancer, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and neurodegenerative disorders. Further, the book presents novel technologies for the detection of oxidative stress biomarkers using nanostructure biosensors, as well as in vitro and in vivo models to monitor oxidative stress. Lastly, the book addresses the drug delivery carriers that can help in combating oxidative stress.
Role of Phenolic Phytochemicals in Diabetes Management: Phenolic Phytochemicals and Diabetes
by Muddasarul Hoda Shanmugam Hemaiswarya Mukesh DobleThis book summarizes the latest research trends in phytophenolic therapy for the management of diabetes. It discusses the various mechanisms of action of phytophenolics present in food, fruits and plants that can be used to control/reverse diabetic conditions. Further, it addresses the synergistic interactions of phytophenolics with anti-diabetic drugs, as understanding them can yield valuable insights for complementary and alternative medicine. In closing, it discusses the important aspects of nanotechnology-based targeted delivery and improving the bioavailability of phenolic phytochemicals, two major areas of research in phytotherapy of diabetes.
The Role of Phosphonates in Living Systems
by HilderbrandThroughout the last three decades, a large amount of information on phosphonates has accumulated, but has not been compiled. At this time of the increasing importance of phosphonate class of molecules, this information needs to be drawn together to make a manageable volume for use as a reference text and as learning text for interested persons.
The Role of Plant Pathology in Food Safety and Food Security
by Maria Lodovica Gullino R. N. StrangeThis book views the vulnerability of our crops in general to devastating diseases as well as specifically the disease problems of two important staples, rice and cassava. Increased travel and increased transport of plant material throughout the world pose ever more significant risks to the health of our plants. These include not only the destruction of our food crops by pathogens which may be imported accidentally or maliciously but also their contamination by fungi that produce powerful toxins (mycotoxins). How we should respond to these challenges is the subject of several papers. Clearly, quarantine is an important measure by which the spread of plant pathogens may be at least delayed, if not curtailed altogether, but breeding plants for resistance is the mainstay for maintaining the comparative health and productivity of our crops. However, adequate resistance may not be available in the gene pool of a given species or genus and therefore the possibility of genetic modification arises, a topic treated in two of the papers.
The Role of Plant Roots in Crop Production
by Nand Kumar FageriaThe Role of Plant Roots in Crop Production presents the state of knowledge on environmental factors in root growth and development and their effect on the improvement of the yield of annual crops. This book addresses the role of roots in crop production and includes references to numerous annual crops. In addition, it brings together the issues and
Role of Potassium in Abiotic Stress
by Shahid Umar Noushina IqbalThis book on potassium in abiotic stress tolerance deals with the ongoing trend in increasing abiotic stresses and interlinked issues food security. As mineral nutrient potassium holds an important place in agriculture and is involved in various physiological and biochemical processes. It takes part in protein synthesis, carbohydrate metabolism, enzyme activation, cation-anion balance, osmoregulation, water movement, energy transfer, and regulates stomata and photosynthesis. Potassium plays an important role as abiotic stress buster. This book will deal with potassium relevance to plant functions and adaptations, range of its biological functions, role of potassium in abiotic stress tolerance, analyses of mechanisms responsible for perception and signal transduction of potassium under abiotic stress, critical evaluation of and cross-talks on nutrients and phytohormones signaling pathways under optimal and stressful conditions, and interaction of potassium with other nutrients for abiotic stress tolerance. This book will be of interest to teachers, researchers, scientists working on abiotic stresses. Also the book serves as additional reading material for undergraduate and graduate students of agriculture, forestry, ecology, and environmental sciences. National and international agricultural scientists, policy makers will also find this to be a useful read.
Role of Potassium in Plants (SpringerBriefs in Plant Science)
by Girdhar K. Pandey Swati MahiwalPotassium (K+) is an essential mineral macronutrient abundantly present in the cytosol which, unlike other macronutrients, is not metabolized and does not integrate into macromolecules. Compared to animal cells, K+ is more abundantly present in plant cells. Overall performance of the plant, and operation of metabolic machinery depends upon intracellular K+ homeostasis (K+ uptake and efflux) via K+ channels and transporters acting as mediators of cellular responses during plant development. Unlike animals, plants lack sodium/K+ exchangers; plant cells have developed unique transport systems for K+ accumulation and release. In Arabidopsis thaliana, 71 K+ channels and transporters have been identified and categorized into six families. Plant adaptive responses to several abiotic and biotic stresses are mediated by regulation of intracellular K+ homeostasis. In this report, we highlight the role of K+ in abiotic and biotic stresses, features of channels and transporters responsible for its homeostasis along with its evolutionary relationship, perception and sensing mechanisms, and K+ deficiency triggering different signaling cascades. Overall, this book covers the role of K+ in plants would be significantly helpful to research, academic community as well as students to understand the one of the major attributes of plant biology.
Role of Procoagulant Activity in Health and Disease (Routledge Revivals)
by Gary A. LevyFirst published in 1994, Role of Procoagulant Activity in Health and Disease discusses different aspects of the pathobiology and consequences of the induction of cellular procoagulants. The first part of the book addresses the molecular and cellular biology of procoagulant activity induction (PCA). This includes the recent data on cellular pathways of induction of PCA and the molecular nature of the different procoagulants identified to date. The book addresses interactions between macrophages and endothelial cells, focusing on those aspects most relevant to induction of procoagulant activities, including the role of adhesion molecules. The second portion of the book describes the relevance of PCA to a number of human and experimental diseases, including infectious diseases, gastrointestinal diseases, liver disease, renal disease, neoplastic diseases, allograft rejection, and pulmonary disease. This book will not only be of value to the basic scientist, but also to pathologists and clinicians, and to others wishing to understand the role of immunologically mediated induction of cellular coagulants and their relevance to disease.
Role of Proteases in Cellular Dysfunction
by Naranjan S. Dhalla Sajal ChakrabortiIt is now well known that proteases are found everywhere, in viruses and bacteria as well as in all human, animal and plant cells, and play a role in a variety of biological functions ranging from digestion, fertilization, development to senescence and death. Under physiological conditions the ability of proteases is regulated by endogenous inhibitors. However, when the activity of proteases is not regulated appropriately, disease processes can result, as seen in Alzheimer's disease, cancer metastasis and tumor progression, inflammation and atherosclerosis. Thus it is evident that there is an absolute need for a tighter control of proteolytic activities in different cells and tissues. Aimed at graduate students and researchers with an interest in cellular proteolytic events, Role of Proteases in Cellular Dysfunctions is the second book on Proteases in this series. The book consists of three parts in specified topics based on current literatures for a better understanding for the readers with respect to their subject-wise interests. The first section of this book covers a brief idea about the neuronal disorders and the involvement of proteases such as calpains, caspases and matrix metalloproteases (MMPs). The second section covers the deadly disease cancer and its relation to ubiquitin-proteasome system, MMPs and serine proteases. The last section is about the role of proteases such as calpains, MMPs and serine protease as well as urokinase type plasminogen activator receptor (uPAR) in causing cardiovascular defects.
The Role of Protein and Amino Acids in Sustaining and Enhancing Performance
by Institute of MedicineIt is a commonly held belief that athletes, particularly body builders, have greater requirements for dietary protein than sedentary individuals. However, the evidence in support of this contention is controversial. This book is the latest in a series of publications designed to inform both civilian and military scientists and personnel about issues related to nutrition and military service.Among the many other stressors they experience, soldiers face unique nutritional demands during combat. Of particular concern is the role that dietary protein might play in controlling muscle mass and strength, response to injury and infection, and cognitive performance. The first part of the book contains the committee's summary of the workshop, responses to the Army's questions, conclusions, and recommendations. The remainder of the book contains papers contributed by speakers at the workshop on such topics as, the effects of aging and hormones on regulation of muscle mass and function, alterations in protein metabolism due to the stress of injury or infection, the role of individual amino acids, the components of proteins, as neurotransmitters, hormones, and modulators of various physiological processes, and the efficacy and safety considerations associated with dietary supplements aimed at enhancing performance.
Role of Reservoir Operation in Sustainable Water Supply to Subak Irrigation Schemes in Yeh Ho River Basin: Learning From Experiences of Ancient Subak Schemes For Participatory Irrigation System Management in Bali
by Mawiti Infantri YektiA Subak irrigation scheme, primarily in Bali, Indonesia concerns an irrigation system of which the construction, operation and management are based on agreed principles of technology, management of agriculture and religious community. Subak systems have been well known since the 9th Century. As a manifestation of the Cultural Landscape of Bali Province the Subak schemes are since June, 2012 included in the World Heritage List of UNESCO. These systems are managed by a Subak Association based on the Tri Hita Karana philosophy - harmony between human beings and God, harmony between people and nature, and harmony between people and people. The problem of insufficient water in the dry season developed in the Yeh Ho River Basin. Because of this the main objective of this study was to develop an optimal reservoir operation strategy in relation to the water supply of the Subak irrigation schemes, capable to support agricultural productivity at upstream, midstream and downstream level. Based on a Generic Algorithm the RIBASIM model was applied using the dependable 80% of discharge and shifting the start of land preparation. The results provide evidence that the cropping pattern of the fifth scenario results in an overall optimal agriculture production of the Subak schemes. The recoverable flow considered in the river basin scheme model plays an important role in the optimisation. Nevertheless, if a normal hydro-climate occurs, the other scenarios, especially the first scenario, can be applied as well. This reflects the applicability of the Tri Hita Karana philosophy on harmony among people and harmony among people and nature.
Role of Rhizospheric Microbes in Soil: Volume 2: Nutrient Management and Crop Improvement
by Vijay Singh MeenaIn any ecosystem, plant and microbe interaction is inevitable. They not only co-exist but also support each other’s survival and also provide for sustenance in stressful environment. Agro-ecosystems of many regions around the globe are affected by multi-stress. Major limiting factors affecting the agricultural productivity worldwide are environmental stresses. Apart from decreasing yield they introduce devastating impact on plant growth as well. Plants battle with various kind of stresses with the help of symbiotic association with the microbes in the rhizosphere. Naturally existing plant-microbe interaction facilitates survival of plants under these stressful conditions. Rhizosphere consists of many groups of microbes, plant growth-promoting bacteria (PGPB) is one such group of microbes which assist plants in coping with multiple stresses and in plant growth as well. These microbes help in stress physiology of the plants and can be extremely useful in solving agricultural as well food security problems. The proposed book is split into two parts, with an aim to provide comprehensive description and highlight a holistic approach. It elucidates various mechanisms in rhizosphere of nutrient management, stress tolerance and enhanced crop productivity. The book discusses rhizospheric flora and its importance in enhancement of plant growth, nutrient content, yield of various crops and vegetables as well as soil fertility and health. Both volumes of the book addresses fundamentals, applications as well as research trends and new prospects of agricultural sustainability. Volume 2: Nutrient Management and Crop Improvement, contains chapters which cover a broad overview of plant growth promoting activities of microbes. This proposed book also highlights the contribution of nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, iron and zinc-solubilizing microbes from rhizospheric soil to develop efficient indigenous microbial consortia to enhance the food and nutritional security. With the given content and layout the proposed book will be an all-inclusive collection of information, which will be useful for students, academicians, researchers working in the field of rhizospheric mechanisms, agricultural microbiology, soil microbiology, biotechnology, agronomy and sustainable agriculture and also for policy makers in the area of food security and sustainable agriculture. It will be of special interest to both academics and professionals working in the fields of microbiology, soil microbiology, biotechnology and agronomy, as well as the plant protection sciences. Timely, this edited and research book provides an essential and comprehensive source of material from basic to advance findings on microbes and their role in agricultural and soil sustainability.
Role of Rhizospheric Microbes in Soil: Volume 2: Nutrient Management And Crop Improvement
by Vijay Singh MeenaIn any ecosystem, plant and microbe interaction is inevitable. They not only co-exist but also support each other’s survival and provide sustenance in stressful environments. Agro-ecosystems in many regions around the globe are affected by high temperatures, soil salinity/alkalinity, low pH and metal toxicity. High salinity and severe draught are other major constraints affecting agricultural practices and also plants in the wild. A major limiting factor affecting global agricultural productivity is environmental stresses. Apart from decreasing yield, they also have a devastating impact on plant growth. Plants battle with various kind of stresses with the help of symbiotic associations with the rhizospheric microbes. Naturally occuring plant-microbe interactions facilitate the survival of plants under these stressful conditions.The rhizosphere consists of several groups of microbes, plant growth-promoting bacteria (PGPB) is one such group of microbes that assists plants in coping with multiple stresses and also promote plant growth. These efficient microbes support the stress physiology of the plants and can be extremely useful in solving agricultural as well food- security problems.This book provides a detailed, holistic description of plant and microbe interaction. It elucidates various mechanisms of nutrient management, stress tolerance and enhanced crop productivity in the rhizosphere, discussing The rhizospheric flora and its importance in enhancement of plant growth, nutrient content, yield of various crops and vegetables as well as soil fertility and health. Divided into two volumes, the book addresses fundamentals, applications as well as research trends and new prospects for agricultural sustainability. Volume 1: Stress Management and Agricultural Sustainability, includes chapters offering a broad overview of plant stress management with the help of microbes. It also highlights the contribution of enzymatic and molecular events occurring in the rhizosphere due to plant microbe interactions, which in turn help in the biological control of plant disease and pest attacks. Various examples of plant microbe interaction in rhizospheric soil are elaborated to facilitate the development of efficient indigenous microbial consortia to enhance food and nutritional security. Providing a comprehensive information source on microbes and their role in agricultural and soil sustainability, this timely research book is of particular interest to students, academics and researchers working in the fields of microbiology, soil microbiology, biotechnology, agronomy, and the plant protection sciences, as well as for policy makers in the area of food security and sustainable agriculture.
Role of Science and Technology for Sustainable Future: Volume 1: Sustainable Development: A Primary Goal
by Ranbir Chander SobtiThe book explores the pivotal role of science and technology in achieving the sustainable development goals (SDGs) outlined in the agenda 2030 for sustainable development. It emphasizes the importance of integrating science and technology into developing strategies to promote a sustainable and prosperous global future. The book highlights the universal acceptance of the SDGs by United Nations member states, subnational governing bodies, and international organizations. It emphasizes that all stakeholders, including governmental bodies, private enterprises, and civil society, have a responsibility to contribute to the achievement of the SDGs. Science, technology, and innovation are identified as the three pillars essential for achieving the SDGs. The book emphasizes the critical role of science and technology in addressing complex issues such as climate change, biodiversity loss, resource depletion, poverty reduction, health, education, gender equality, clean energy, sustainable cities, responsible consumption, and climate action. It helps to develop innovative solutions to promote economic growth, social inclusion, and environmental sustainability. And provide the necessary knowledge and tools to develop effective policies and strategies in these areas. Furthermore, the book highlights the potential of science and technology in promoting innovation and entrepreneurship, leading to the creation of new businesses and industries that align with sustainable development principles. This fosters economic growth, job creation, and environmental sustainability. It advocates for continued investment in science and technology and their integration into development strategies. The book aims to provide insights into the role of traditional and emerging areas of science and technology in meeting the goals outlined in the SDG document, with a specific focus on India. The book serves as a great source of information for researchers, teachers in basic and applied sciences /social sciences research and policymakers.
Role of Science and Technology for Sustainable Future: Volume 2- Applied Sciences and Technologies
by Ranbir Chander SobtiThis book discusses the role of science and technology in forging a sustainable and harmonious world. It delves into new horizons in healthcare, food security, climate change, energy, sustainable transportation, role of computational and data sciences in sustainability, and mental health and aims to cultivate innovative solutions that benefit both the planet and its inhabitants. The second volume is inspired by a unified objective: preserving our planet, fostering universal well-being, and envisioning a world where collective efforts drive positive change through an exploration of conventional and emerging technologies. The book chapters enrich the global discourse on sustainability, steering us toward a resilient and healthier future.With every chapter authored by dedicated experts, this book stands as a testament to the commitment to a better world and serves as a great resource for researchers, environmentalists, and students.
The Role of Science in Solving the Earth's Emerging Water Problems
by M. SacklerThe National Academies Press (NAP)--publisher for the National Academies--publishes more than 200 books a year offering the most authoritative views, definitive information, and groundbreaking recommendations on a wide range of topics in science, engineering, and health. Our books are unique in that they are authored by the nation's leading experts in every scientific field.
The Role Of Scientific And Technical Data And Information In The Public Domain: Proceedings Of A Symposium
by National Research Council of the National AcademiesThis symposium brought together leading experts and managers from the public and private sectors who are involved in the creation, dissemination, and use of scientific and technical data and information (STI) to: (1) describe and discuss the role and the benefits and costs--both economic and other--of the public domain in STI in the research and education context, (2) to identify and analyze the legal, economic, and technological pressures on the public domain in STI in research and education, (3) describe and discuss existing and proposed approaches to preserving the public domain in STI in the United States, and (4) identify issues that may require further analysis.
The Role Of Scientific And Technical Data And Information In The Public Domain: Proceedings Of A Symposium
by Role of Scientific and Technical Data and Information in the Public Domain Steering Committee International Scientific and Technical Information Programs Office National Research Council StaffThis symposium brought together leading experts and managers from the public and private sectors who are involved in the creation, dissemination, and use of scientific and technical data and information (STI) to: (1) describe and discuss the role and the benefits and costs--both economic and other--of the public domain in STI in the research and education context, (2) to identify and analyze the legal, economic, and technological pressures on the public domain in STI in research and education, (3) describe and discuss existing and proposed approaches to preserving the public domain in STI in the United States, and (4) identify issues that may require further analysis.
Role of Seismic Testing Facilities in Performance-Based Earthquake Engineering
by Michael N. Fardis Zoran T. RakicevicNowadays research in earthquake engineering is mainly experimental and in large-scale; advanced computations are integrated with large-scale experiments, to complement them and extend their scope, even by coupling two different but simultaneous tests. Earthquake engineering cannot give answers by testing and qualifying few, small typical components or single large prototypes. Besides, the large diversity of Civil Engineering structures does not allow drawing conclusions from only a few tests; structures are large and their seismic response and performance cannot be meaningfully tested in an ordinary lab or in the field. So, seismic testing facilities should be much larger than in other scientific fields; their staff has to be resourceful, devising intelligent ways to carry out simultaneously different tests and advanced computations. To better serve such a mission European testing facilities and researchers in earthquake engineering have shared their resources and activities in the framework of the European project SERIES, combining their research and jointly developing advanced testing and instrumentation techniques that maximize testing capabilities and increase the value of the tests. This volume presents the first outcomes of the SERIES and its contribution towards Performance-based Earthquake Engineering, i.e., to the most important development in Earthquake Engineering of the past three decades. The concept and the methodologies for performance-based earthquake engineering have now matured. However, they are based mainly on analytical/numerical research; large-scale seismic testing has entered the stage recently. The SERIES Workshop in Ohrid (MK) in Sept. 2010 pooled together the largest European seismic testing facilities, Europe's best experts in experimental earthquake engineering and select experts from the USA, to present recent research achievements and to address future developments. Audience: This volume will be of interest to researchers and advanced practitioners in structural earthquake engineering, geotechnical earthquake engineering, engineering seismology, and experimental dynamics, including seismic qualification.