Bücher veröffentlicht von IntechOpen

Technological change is one of the greatest issues in the modern world. As the world faces societal challenges, e.g., climate challenges, aging problem, and energy security, technology will contribute to new or better solutions for those problems. New technologies take time to develop and mature; moreover, they tend to be born in the gaps of multiple technology fields; therefore, early detection of emerging technological concepts across multiple disciplines will be a very important issue. Our goal seeks to develop automated methods that aid in the systematic, continuous, and comprehensive assessment of technological emergence using one of the major foresight exercises, scientometrics. There is now a huge flood of scientific and technical information, especially scientific publications and patent information. Using the information patterns of emergence for technological concepts has been discovered and theories of technical emergence have been also developed in several years. We have been developing visualization tools in which thousands of technical areas have been interacted with each other and evolved in time. Several indicators of technical emergence have been improved by universities, international organizations, and funding agencies. This book intends to provide readers with a comprehensive overview of the current state of the art in scientometrics that focuses on the systematic, continuous, and comprehensive assessment of technological emergence.

The hippocampus is an important brain region, a true central hub for memory of various kinds and other processes. Neuropsychiatric disorders such as Alzheimer's disease, drug addiction, and schizophrenia are characterized by hippocampal alterations. The dentate gyrus of the hippocampus is a site exhibiting adult neurogenesis. This book covers the topic of the hippocampus from various perspectives. It discusses adult neurogenesis, effect of enriched environments on hippocampal plasticity, and long-term potentiation-associated gene expression. The book also addresses multiscale representations of complex environments and strategies in the hippocampus-dependent spatial tasks. Finally, insight into the hippocampus as a link between negative affect and relapse to psychostimulants is provided. The book collects evidence of various hippocampal functions in healthy and disordered brain.

Women with unmet need for family planning are those who are fecund but are not using any method of contraception, not wanting any more children, or wanting to delay the next pregnancy. This notion points to the gap between women?s reproductive intentions and their contraceptive behavior. The need for contraception remains too high. This circumstance is made worse by both a growing population and a shortage of family planning services. It is important that family planning is widely available and easily accessible. This book is intended as an aid to substance that all health workers interested in becoming more effective practitioners will consult on many occasions during their clinical practice. It provides views that the readers can test their experiences against. It presents sound and clear advice on some of the most practical guidance applicable to family planning.

Nano-bioimaging is a real-time observation method for the study of biological processes in subcellular structures and entire cells. This technique aims to interfere as little as possible with life processes using nanoscale materials and probes. In this method, nanoscale photon source is often used for imaging, and 3D structure of the observed specimen is studied in detail without physical interference. Over the last decade, further boost in bioimaging has led to increase the nano-bioimaging impact that includes many improvements in the data analysis method, image processing, and molecular imaging technology. However, to increase the usage of nano-bioimaging, several developments in the field of diagnosis accuracy, photobleaching prevention, and controlling of the fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) must be achieved. The purpose of this book is to provide a perspective on the current status of nano-bioimaging technologies.

Reasoned and based on the difference between discovery and invention, according to the traditional conception, science can be distinguished between basic science and applied science. Nevertheless, we know that the sciences are inseparable. A century or more ago, Louis Pasteur said "there is no applied science, there are applications of science." With this assertion, he establishes the logic of complementarity between them. Science certainly goes beyond its own material application and brings us to issues that have intrigued humanity for a long time. During the many years that we have been working with techniques of material characterization, we observed that this complementarity was not always understood by the researchers. In line with the reasoning that the technique joined with science generates technology, the application of techniques that use x-ray and neutron sources seems to us of fundamental importance for the development of technology. In this way, we present in this book how the existing technology of material characterization can contribute to science and applied technology. The authors who contributed with this book sought to show the importance of applying the existing techniques in the development of their works.

Splines provide a significant tool for the design of computationally economical curves and surfaces for the construction of various objects like automobiles, ship hulls, airplane fuselages and wings, propeller blades, shoe insoles, bottles, etc. It also contributes in the description of geological, physical, statistical, and even medical phenomena. Spline methods have proven to be indispensable in a variety of modern industries, including computer vision, robotics, signal and image processing, visualization, textile, graphic designs, and even media. This book aims to provide a valuable source on splines and their applications. It focuses on collecting and disseminating information in various disciplines including computer-aided geometric design, computer graphics, data visualization, data fitting, power systems, clinical and epidemiologic studies, disease detection, regression curves, social media, and biological studies. The book is useful for researchers, scientists, practitioners, and many others who seek state-of-the-art techniques and applications using splines. It is also useful for undergraduate senior students as well as graduate students in the areas of computer science, engineering, health science, statistics, and mathematics. Each chapter also provides useful information on software developments and their extensions.

Many research fields are heading toward more precise process analyses in the era of big data and artificial intelligence. In particular, using innovative methods to analyze different human behaviors as well as understand specific behavioral patterns helps explore the structures and contexts in all kinds of human behaviors, which can serve as theoretical innovation and strategies to solve human problems. This book collects the latest behavior analysis research in different disciplines, including some methods or analysis examples.

Toxicologists seek to better understand the myriad of mechanisms responsible for neurotoxins. Because the incidence of neurobehavioral hazards and risks of exogenous compounds (e.g., natural toxins, synthetic molecules, and therapeutic agents) remain a subject matter of interest, predictive tools have evolved, including but not limited to novel translational in vitro models, biomarkers, newer epidemiological research tools, and well-accepted best practices for diagnosing neurotoxins in clinical practice. Taken together, the foreseen need to highlight some of the more appreciated and/or emerging tactical approaches in neurotoxicology results in a "one-stop reference" book, Neurotoxins.

Insecticides are substances used to kill insects. They are used primarily in agriculture to control pests that infest crop. Nearly all insecticides have the potential to significantly alter ecosystems: many are toxic to humans and/or animals; some become concentrated as they spread along the food chain. The presence of these chemicals in both aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems has become an important issue globally. The book Insecticides - Agriculture and Toxicology provides information on the use of insecticides in pest management in order to enhance crop protection and their effects on nontarget organisms.

This book is a fruit of a collaborative work from several international scientists. It will be a useful resource for researchers, students, and clinicians. Each individual chapter could serve as a prescribed reading for postgraduate students and clinicians specializing in and practicing clinical pharmacology and toxicology, pharmacotherapy and pharmacotherapeutics, pharmacovigilance, and toxicovigilance, as well as those involved in clinical research, drug discovery, and development. Every chapter in this book discusses and provides illustrations on the theme discussed based on authors' understanding and experience while summarizing existing knowledge. In doing so, each chapter provides a new insight that would benefit a novice as well as a seasoned reader in understanding the pharmacokinetic mechanisms and risk factors involved in the occurrence of adverse effects of drugs.

Parkinson's disease (PD) is the second most common neurodegenerative disorder results due to loss of dopamine producing brain cells. Knowledge relating to PD condition has been known since 5000BC, however no effective therapeutic strategies are available till today. Therefore it is important for neurobiologists to work further by taking advantage of modern scientific methods and develop appropriate therapeutic strategies. Efforts in this direction are worthy as they will reduce the burden of PD among elderly, who are already burdened with age related systemic degenerative processes. This book is a humble effort in that progressive direction. It has chapters covering multiple aspects relating to etiology, pathophysiology of PD, available and futuristic therapeutics strategies. Therefore it will be of interest to common man, biomedical researchers and clinicians. This is one small step in a direction "to reduce the burden of neurological disease."

Tribology is an interdisciplinary area that studies the reduction of friction between moving parts combining chemistry, physics and engineering disciplines. Lubricants are typically substances used to reduce friction. This book contains two sections: the first section examines the chemistry of lubricants and additives, while the second section looks at the lubrication of different types of materials.

This book is dedicated toward space technology application in Earth studies based on the use of a variety of methods for satellite information classification and interpretation. Advantages of geospatial data use in a large-scale area of observation and monitoring as a source of decision-making stage have been demonstrated. The book describes navigation systems providing data estimation method and review of existing data in the literature relevant to remote sensing sensors delivering main information electromagnetic spectrum and a variety of sensor applications. This aspect is important when combining/integrating satellite data processing into the field measurements. Satellites and satellite data application for the study of Earth features have been demonstrated as the next step of geospatial data application. The use of different purposeful processing technology applications of satellite data is one of the vital aspects of space technology advances. The use of GNSS GPS technology in industry and MODIS images and data interpretation for agriculture purposes has been presented. It was the aim of the book to create an attractive environment by presenting space technology application in the wide areas of Earth study. For this purpose, some of the book chapters are dedicated toward space technology advances in climate monitoring, natural disaster factor detection, satellite data processing optimization, and GIS technology for meteorology information with the aim of agriculture developments.

In this book, we can read about new technologies that enhance training and performance; discover new, exciting ways to design and deliver content; and have access to proven strategies, practices and solutions shared by experts. The authors of this book come from all over the world; their ideas, studies, findings and experiences are beneficial contributions to enhance our knowledge in the field of e-learning. The book is divided into three sections, and their respective chapters refer to three macro areas. The first section of the book covers Instructional Design of E-learning, considering methodology and tools for designing e-learning environments and courseware. Also, there are examples of effective ways of gaming and educating. The second section is about Organizational Strategy and Management. The last section deals with the new Developments in E-learning Technology, emphasizing subjects like knowledge building by mobile e-learning systems, cloud computing and new proposals for virtual learning environments/platforms.

Nematology being an established discipline covers a wide range of area ranging from basic aspect to the advanced and applied aspects involving recent advances in molecular techniques. This book discusses the following topics: the role of nematodes in our life (in agriculture, ecosystem functioning, experimental biology, ecological studies, pest management programs, or biocontrol), identification of GRSPs in nematode genomes, novel way for the diagnosis of pathogenic nematodes involving various recent molecular techniques, other methodologies for successful control of termites, evolution of plant-parasitic nematodes, viability of adult filarial nematode parasites, the impact of plant-parasitic nematodes on crops, and harnessing useful rhizosphere microorganisms for nematode control. The book also encompasses on classical study, molecular study, bioinformatics in nematology, biodiversity analysis, and culturing of nematodes in laboratory condition.

The application of Fourier transform (FT) in signal processing and physical sciences has increased in the past decades. Almost all the textbooks on signal processing or physics have a section devoted to the FT theory. For this reason, this book focuses on signal processing and physical sciences. The book chapters are related to fast hybrid recursive FT based on Jacket matrix, acquisition algorithm for global navigation satellite system, determining the sensitivity of output parameters based on FFT, convergence of integrals of products based on Riemann-Lebesgue Lemma function, extending the real and complex number fields for treating the FT, nonmaterial structure, Gabor transform, and chalcopyrite bioleaching. The book provides applications oriented to signal processing and physics written primarily for engineers, mathematicians, physicians and graduate students, will also find it useful as a reference for their research activities.

Stainless steel is still one of the fastest growing materials. Today, the austenitic stainless steel with the classic composition of 18% Cr and 8% Ni (grade 304L) is still the most widely used by far in the world. The unique characteristic of stainless steel arises from three main factors. The versatility results from high corrosion resistance, excellent low- and high-temperature properties, high toughness, formability, and weldability. The long life of stainless steels has been proven in service in a wide range of environments, together with low maintenance costs compared to other highly alloyed metallic materials. The retained value of stainless steel results from the high intrinsic value and easy recycling. Stainless steel, especially of austenitic microstructure, plays a crucial role in achieving sustainable development nowadays, so it is also important for further generations.

The book 'Breast Cancer and Surgery' summarizes the treatment options from the onset of breast carcinogenesis to early-local advanced and metastatic breast cancer. Chemotherapy alternatives, drug resistance and local and surgical treatment preferences are extensively discussed and this information is especially directed at clinicians, researchers, and students. This book includes a comparison between different chemotherapy agents and targeted therapies with published phase II-III studies. The importance of palliative care and dietary supplements administered during the treatment course in reducing the comorbidity of patients is emphasized. Photodynamic treatments have been included in this book. A comprehensive and up-to-date information exchange that can be accessed through a single source is provided to all researchers interested in breast cancer.

The last century has witnessed tremendous changes in the education and training system of medical students, as well as medical and surgical residents, in short, our future physicians. This has been the result of the changes in the educational philosophy, the technology, and the needs of our patients, just to name a few. The challenge is to learn more about the various systems in medical education throughout the world and identify advantages and disadvantages, a process from which we can all (and most importantly our patients) benefit from. This book is a compilation of the experiences, thoughts, and "best-practice" advice of a panel of international experts on medical and surgical education.

This book covers a range of models, circuits and systems built with memristor devices and networks in applications to neural networks. It is divided into three parts: (1) Devices, (2) Models and (3) Applications. The resistive switching property is an important aspect of the memristors, and there are several designs of this discussed in this book, such as in metal oxide/organic semiconductor nonvolatile memories, nanoscale switching and degradation of resistive random access memory and graphene oxide-based memristor. The modelling of the memristors is required to ensure that the devices can be put to use and improve emerging application. In this book, various memristor models are discussed, from a mathematical framework to implementations in SPICE and verilog, that will be useful for the practitioners and researchers to get a grounding on the topic. The applications of the memristor models in various neuromorphic networks are discussed covering various neural network models, implementations in A/D converter and hierarchical temporal memories.

The field of lamination has developed significantly over the past 5000 years. Nowadays, we have a humongous array of structures and technological systems where composite laminates are applied. From the viewpoint of structural mechanics, an interface slip motion between two laminated structures, such as beam plate and plate in the presence of dry friction, can be utilized for slip damping systems. By scientific definition, slip damping is a mechanism exploited for dissipating noise and vibration energy in machine structures and systems. Researchers have developed several mathematical models for noise dissipation, minimization and complete vibration isolation laminated mechanisms. The purpose of this book is to describe new concepts of producing laminated structures and possible modern engineering applications.

As nanomaterials become increasingly present in our daily lives, pertinent questions regarding their safety arise. Nanomaterial risk assessment, as in other areas, directs much of the effort worldwide in defining guidelines that may be translated into national or international directives. Nanomaterials encompass different entities, from nanoparticles to nanostructured materials, with specific effects over cells, tissues, organisms and ecosystems depending on their biophysical characteristics. Such interactions will directly affect the impact of novel nanotechnologies. This book aims to provide the reader with a comprehensive overview of the current state of the art in nanotoxicology, featuring the most important developments and critical issues regarding the use of and exposure to nanoparticles.

Corals comprise a wide variety of colonial marine invertebrates belonging to the Phylum Cnidaria. Their polyps form the most colorful, complete, and diverse communities on the Earth resembling underwater cities, commonly called coral reefs, which host a wide variety of invertebrates and fish species. They are highly productive ecosystems, contribute to the health of the biosphere, and offer a good number of economic and ecological services to coastal populations and to many people around the world. However, due to a diverse number of natural and anthropogenic stressors, corals have shown a severe decline over the past few decades. Being aware of the importance and relevance of the facts described, the book "Corals in a Changing World" offers new scientific information regarding the actual status and, in some cases, the resilience state of coral reef systems. Timely information is critical for managers and decision makers to implement sustainable management measures according to the ecological condition of coral reefs. In addition, the book also discusses the use of well-maintained coral microcosms to provide a good basis for performing experiments with natural fluctuations and to present studies dedicated to the coral diversity characterization and to their importance as a source of important biological compounds, which could be converted into industrial products.

Rapid multiplex detection of pathogens in the environment and in our food is a key factor for the prevention and effective treatment of infectious diseases. Biosensing technologies combining the high selectivity of biomolecular recognition and the sensitivity of modern signal detection platforms are a prospective option for automated analyses. They allow rapid detection of single molecules as well as cellular substances. This book, including 12 chapters from 50 authors, introduces the principles of identification of specific pathogen biomarkers along with different biosensor-based technologies applied for pathogen detection.

Almost all processing of technologically important materials includes a process where liquid material is cooled to form a solid, called "solidification." In order to form a solid from an undercooled melt, the formation of crystalline nuclei and growth of these nuclei to form a solid are necessary. The process of an atom jumping from the liquid to the solid is a diffusive jump with a driving force. The book Solidification is logically developed through a careful presentation of the relevant theories and models of solidification occurring in a variety of materials. Mathematicians, chemists, physicists, and engineers concerned with melting/freezing phenomena will also find this book to be valuable.

Lignin - Trends and Applications consists of 11 chapters related to the lignin structure, modification, depolymerization, degradation process, computational modeling, and applications. This is a useful book for readers from diverse areas, such as physics, chemistry, biology, materials science, and engineering. It is expected that this book may expand the reader's knowledge about this complex natural polymer.

The book describes the recent progress in some hypersonic technologies such as the aerodynamic modeling and numerical simulations of rarefied flows, boundary layer receptivity, coupled aerodynamics, and heat transfer problems, including fluid-thermal-structure interactions and launcher aerodynamic design as well as other miscellaneous topics, such as porous ceramic composite phase change control system and vehicle profile, following LQR design. Both the researchers and the students should find the material useful in their work.

Internal combustion engines have remained a challenge due to depending heavily on fossil fuels, which are already limited reserves, and a requirement for improvement in emission levels continuously. The number of advanced technologies such as hybrid systems and low-temperature combustion engines has been introduced, and a number of reports about the use of alternative fuels have been presented in recent years to overcome these challenges. The efforts have made the new concepts to be used in practical along with the new problems which are required advanced control systems. This book presents studies on internal combustion engines with alternative fuels and advanced combustion technologies to obtain efficiency and environment-friendly systems, measurement methodology of exhaust emissions and modelling of a hybrid engine system, and mechanical losses arising from ring-cylinder and ring-groove side contacts as well. The main theme here is to identify solutions for internal combustion engines in terms of fuel consumption, emissions, and performance.