The contents of the book are assembled from selected papers presented during the International Conference on Isotopes in Environmental Studies - AQUATIC FORUM 2004 convened in Monaco from 25 to 29 October 2004, which was the most important gathering of the year of isotope environmental scientists. The book reviews the present state of the art isotopic methods for better understanding of key processes in the aquatic environment, responsible for its future development and its protection.
The main highlights include the latest developments in the study of the behaviour, transport and distribution of isotopes in the aquatic environment, recent climate change records using isotopic tracers in the environment, global isotopic oceanic studies, new trends in radioecological investigations and modelling, impact of groundwater-seawater interactions on coastal zones, groundwater dynamics and modelling, important for management of freshwater resources, development of new isotopic techniques, such as AMS, RIMS and ICPMS, and their applications in environmental studies, new trends in radiometrics underground techniques, new in situ radiometrics technologies and many other exciting topics which were presented and discussed during the Conference.
The proceedings constitute an important contribution to the environmental isotopic research. In publishing this book the aim is to make the use of isotopes more widespread in the environmental disciplines and to further stimulate work in this exciting field.
* Presents selected papers from the International Conference on Isotopes in Environmental Studies - AQUATIC FORUM 2004
* Addresses state-of-the-art isotopic methods for better understandingof key processes in the aquatic environment
* Aims to make the use of isotopes more widespread in the environmental disciplines and to further stimulate work in this exciting field

There is widespread public concern about hazardous chemicals that are contained in air, soil, water and food. Policy has therefore adopted a series of laws and regulations concerning emissions into and concentration levels in different media including food. As policy makers do not only have to consider the protection of the environment but also need to ensure a well-functioning economy at the same time, these limit or target values need to be set in a balanced way. The main problem, however, is to compare the costs for achieving these targets with the benefits to society by having a smaller exposure to hazardous substances (cost-benefit analysis).

This book sets out to improve the reliability of cost-benefit analyses particularly of hazardous substances present in air, water, soil and food. It suggests that the human health risk assessment of chemicals is performed in a bottom-up analysis, i.e., following a spatially resolved multimedia modelling approach. In order to support cost-benefit analyses, the approach is accompanied by monetary valuation of human health impacts, yielding so-called external costs. Results for selected priority metals show that these external costs are small compared to those by the classical air pollutants and involve rather long time horizons touching on the aspect of intergenerational equity within sustainable development. When including further hazardous substances, the total external costs attributable to contaminants are expected to be more substantial.

This volume continues the retrospective analyses of Volumes I and II, but goes beyond that in an attempt to understand how phenolic acids are partitioned in seedling-solution and seedling-microbe-soil-sand culture systems and how phenolic acid effects on seedlings may be related to the actual and/or conditional physicochemical properties (e.g., solubility, hydrophobicity, pKa, molecular structure and soil sorption/desorption) of simple phenolic acids. Specifically, it explores the quantitative partitioning (i.e., source-sink relationships) of benzoic and cinnamic acids in cucumber seedling-solution and cucumber seedling-microbe-soil-sand systems and how that partitioning may influence phenolic acid effects on cucumber seedlings. Regressions, correlations and conceptual and hypothetical models are used to achieve these objectives. Cucumber seedlings are used as a surrogate for phenolic acid sensitive herbaceous dicotyledonous weed seedlings. This volume was written specifically for researchers and their students interested in understanding how a range of simple phenolic acids and potentially other putative allelopathic compounds released from living plants and their litter and residues may modify soil chemistry, soil and rhizosphere microbial biology, seedling physiology and seedling growth. In addition, this volume describes the potential relationships, where they may exist, for direct transfer of organic compounds between plants, plant communication and plant-plant allelopathic interactions and addresses the following questions: Can physicochemical properties of phenolic acids be used as tools to help understand the complex behavior of phenolic acids and the ultimate effects of phenolic acids on sensitive seedlings? What insights do laboratory bioassays and the conceptual and hypothetical models of laboratory systems provide us concerning the potential behavior and effects of phenolic acids in field systems? What potential role may phenolic acids play in broadleaf-weed seedling emergence in wheat debris cover crop no-till systems?

Monitoring drought’s slow evolution and identifying the end of a drought is still a big challenge for scientists, natural resource managers, and decision makers. This comprehensive two-volume set with contributions from over 200 experts, and featuring case studies representing numerous countries throughout the world, discusses different aspects of drought from types, indices, and forecasting to monitoring, modeling, and mitigation measures. It also addresses how climate change is impacting drought and decision-making concluding with lessons learned about science, policy, and managing uncertainty. Features: Provides a global perspective on drought prediction and management and a synthesis of the recent state of knowledge. Covers a wide range of topics from essential concepts and advanced techniques for forecasting and modeling drought to societal impacts, consequences, and planning Presents numerous case studies with different management approaches from different regions and countries. Addresses how climate change impacts drought, the increasing challenges associated with managing drought, decision making, and policy implications. Includes contributions from hundreds of experts around the world. Professionals, researchers, academics, and postgraduate students with knowledge in Environmental Sciences, Ecology, Agriculture, Forestry, Hydrology, Water Resources Engineering, and Earth Sciences, as well as those interested in how climate change impacts drought management, will gain new insights from the experts featured in this two-volume handbook.

The Evolution of the Genome provides a much needed overview of genomic study through clear, detailed, expert-authored discussions of the key areas in genome biology. This includes the evolution of genome size, genomic parasites, gene and ancient genome duplications, polypoidy, comparative genomics, and the implications of these genome-level phenomena for evolutionary theory. In addition to reviewing the current state of knowledge of these fields in an accessible way, the various chapters also provide historical and conceptual background information, highlight the ways in which the critical questions are actually being studied, indicate some important areas for future research, and build bridges across traditional professional and taxonomic boundaries.
The Evolution of the Genome will serve as a critical resource for graduate students, postdoctoral fellows, and established scientists alike who are interested in the issue of genome evolution in the broadest sense.
-Provides detailed, clearly written chapters authored by leading researchers in their respective fields
-Presents a much-needed overview of the historical and theoretical context of the various areas of genomic study
-Creates important links between topics in order to promote integration across subdisciplines, including descriptions of how each subject is actually studied
-Provides information specifically designed to be accessible to established researchers, postdoctoral fellows, and graduate students alike

Wireless Sensor Networks (WSNs) and the Internet of Things are facing tremendous advances both in terms of energy-efficiency as well as in the number of available applications. Consequently, there are challenges that need to be tackled for the future generation of WSNs. After giving an overview of the WSN protocols and IEEE 802.15.4 standard, this book proposes IEEE 802.15.4 Medium Access Control (MAC) sub-layer performance enhancements by employing not only RTS/CTS combined with packet concatenation but also scheduled channel poling (MC-SCP). Results have shown that the use of the RTS/CTS mechanism improves channel efficiency by decreasing the deferral time before transmitting a data packet. Furthermore, the Sensor Block Acknowledgment MAC (SBACK-MAC) protocol enables more efficiency as it allows the aggregation of several acknowledgement responses in one special Block Acknowledgment (BACK) Response packet. The throughput and delay performance have been mathematically derived under both ideal conditions (a channel environment with no transmission errors) and non-ideal conditions (with transmission errors). Simulation results successfully validate the proposed analytical models. This research reveals the importance of an appropriate design for the MAC sub-layer protocol for the desired WSN application. Depending on the mission of the WSN application, different protocols are required. Therefore, the overall performance of a WSN application certainly depends on the development and application of suitable e.g., MAC, network layer protocols.

Sediments and Ecohyraulics is comprised of papers submitted to the 6th International Conference on Cohesive Sediments (INTERCOH 2005) held in Saga, Japan, September 2005. The papers are divided into two major categories. The first is basic processes, including erosion, settling, flocculation, and consolidation. The second major catagory is application of the understanding of cohesive sediments to address specific issues, including waterway and part management, fluid mud behavior, and contaminiated sediment management.
*Provides an up-to-date resource of the present knowledge of cohesive sediment transport processes
*Contains practical solutions on cohesive transport problems
*Presents information on managing cohesive sediments

Household Chemicals and Emergency First Aid is an essential manual that covers 386 household chemicals, discusses their hazards when mixed with other chemicals, describes the symptoms of overexposure, and provides instructions for emergency first aid treatment. The book is intended to be used in the event that label instructions on household chemicals have not been followed. It describes what may possibly happen and how to handle the situation if it does occur. Poison control centers are listed by state with phone numbers and addresses. Because household accidents involving chemicals are so prevalent, this manual is a ""must have"" book for all emergency medical technicians, paramedics, and other emergency first aid providers. It is also useful for anyone wanting detailed information regarding emergency situations with household chemicals.

The discovery and development of new computational methods have expanded the capabilities and uses of simulations. With agent-based models, the applications of computer simulations are significantly enhanced. Multi-Agent-Based Simulations Applied to Biological and Environmental Systems is a pivotal reference source for the latest research on the implementation of autonomous agents in computer simulation paradigms. Featuring extensive coverage on relevant applications, such as biodiversity conservation, pollution reduction, and environmental risk assessment, this publication is an ideal source for researchers, academics, engineers, practitioners, and professionals seeking material on various issues surrounding the use of agent-based simulations.

Although nanotechnology has revolutionized fields such as medicine, genetics, biology, bioengineering, mechanics, and chemistry, its increasing application in the food industry is relatively recent in comparison. Nanotechnology is being used to discover new methods for creating new flavors, extending food shelf life, and improving food protection and nutritional value. Nanotechnology in the food industry is now being explored for intelligent nutrient delivery systems, "smart" foods, contaminant detection nanodevices and nanosensors, advanced food processing, antimicrobial chemicals, encapsulation, and green nanomaterials. This new three-volume set, Nanotechnology Horizons in Food Process Engineering, addresses a multitude of topical issues and new developments in the field. Volume 1 focuses food preservation, food packaging and sustainable agriculture, while Volume 2 looks at nanotechnology in food process engineering, applications of biomaterials in food products, and the use of modern nanotechnology for human health. The third volume explores the newest trends in nanotechnology for food applications and their application for improving food delivery systems. Together, these three volumes provide a comprehensive and in-depth look at the emerging status of nanotechnology in the food processing industry, explaining the benefits and drawbacks of various methodologies that will aid in the improvement and development of food product sourcing and food hygiene monitoring methods. Volume 1 discusses emerging nanotechnolgical applications in food processing, packaging, and preservation. It focuses on using nanoparticles for safe and nutritional food production, protecting crops from pests, increasing nutritional value, and providing solutions for various environmental issues. This book especially deals with nanotechnology for controlling plant pathogens, food packaging and preservation, agricultural productivity, wastewater treatment, and bioenergy production. Volume 2 discusses nanotechnology use in non-thermal techniques such as high-pressure processing (HPP), pulsed electric fields (PEFs), pulsed light, ultraviolet, microwave, ohmic heating, electrospinning, and nano- and microencapsulation. This volume looks at the role and application of minimal processing techniques such as ozone treatment, vacuum drying, osmotic dehydration, dense phase carbon dioxide treatment, and high-pressure assisted freezing. The successful applications of nanotechnologies on juices, meat and fish, fruits and vegetable slices, food surface, purees, milk and milk products, extraction, drying enhancement, and encapsulation of micro-macro nutrients are also considered. The volume also presents several computer-aided techniques that are emerging in the food processing sector, such as robotics, radio frequency identification (RFID), three-dimensional food printing, artificial intelligence, etc. Significant role of food properties in design of specific food and edible packaging films have been elucidated. Volume 3: Trends, Nanomaterials and Food Delivery provides an overview of the current trends in nanotechnology for food applications and food delivery systems. Topics include a collection of chapters on diverse topics, including the stability of nanoparticles in food, nanobiosensing for the detection of food contaminants, nanotechnology applications in agriculture, the role of nanotechnology in nutrient delivery, how nanotechnology is applied in dairy products, biofunctional magnetic nanoparticles in food safety, the development of nutraceuticals using nanotechnological tools, and more.

Solid design and craftsmanship are a necessity for structures and infrastructures that must stand up to natural disasters on a regular basis. Continuous research developments in the engineering field are imperative for sustaining buildings against the threat of earthquakes and other natural disasters. Recent Challenges and Advances in Geotechnical Earthquake Engineering provides innovative insights into the methods of structural engineering techniques, as well as disaster management strategies. The content within this publication represents the work of rock fracturing, hazard analysis, and seismic acceleration. It is a vital reference source for civil engineers, researchers, and academicians, and covers topics centered on improving a structure's safety, stability, and resistance to seismic hazards.

This book describes recent advances in radiative transfer, atmospheric remote sensing, polarization optics of random media, and light scattering. It is a valuable resource for anyone involved in light scattering research. Providing numerous step-by-step tutorials, it allows readers to quickly learn about various aspects of theoretical and experimental light scattering media optics. The book features among others a chapter on aerosol remote sensing that helps readers to define and solve various aerosol remote sensing problems.

The study of nature is a complex science involving many different fields from geology and meteorology to biology, zoology, and botany. This complexity indicates nature's broad scope of impact. It is at once beautiful and dangerous, displaying power beyond human control. An understanding of the basic principles and concepts of the study of nature is therefore both enriching and practical. In The Handbook of Nature, authors Frank R. Spellman and Joni Price-Bayer provide a comprehensive guide to the study of nature in terms the layperson can grasp easily. This accessible reference work is for the non-specialist looking for quick, accurate information on all aspects of the study of nature. The handbook is arranged thematically for a logical and user-friendly progression through the material. It includes chapters on the earth's structure and landforms, the atmosphere and weather, water and water sources, and the many different forms of life from single-celled organisms to complex vertebrates. Along with basic natural scientific principles, the authors look closely at the consequences of human interactions with the environment we inhabit. This reference concludes with a glossary and index, and each chapter provides further resources and recommended reading. It is an essential tool for students and professionals alike.

Advances in Civil Engineering and Environmental Engineering focuses on the research of Civil Engineering and Environmental Engineering. The proceedings featurethe most cutting-edge research directions and achievements related to Civil Engineering and Environmental. Subjects in the proceedings include: Civil Engineering Technology Civil Engineering Surveying Geological Engineering Structural Engineering Tunnel and Bridge Engineering Environmental protection materials Pollution control project Building environment and equipment engineering The works of this proceedings can promote development of Civil Engineering and Environmental Engineering, resource sharing, flexibility and high efficiency. Thereby, promote scientific information interchange between scholars from the top universities, research centers and high-tech enterprises working all around the world.

Frontiers in Civil and Hydraulic Engineering focuses on the research of architecture and hydraulic engineering in civil engineering. The proceedings feature the most cutting-edge research directions and achievements related to civil and hydraulic engineering. Subjects in the proceedings including: * Engineering Structure * Intelligent Building * Structural Seismic Resistance * Monitoring and Testing * Hydraulic Engineering * Engineering Facility The works of this proceedings can promote development of civil and hydraulic engineering, resource sharing, flexibility and high efficiency. Thereby, promote scientific information interchange between scholars from the top universities, research centers and high-tech enterprises working all around the world.

Reviews of Environmental Contamination and Toxicology attempts to provide concise, critical reviews of timely advances, philosophy and significant areas of accomplished or needed endeavor in the total field of xenobiotics, in any segment of the environment, as well as toxicological implications.

This book not only introduces the chemistry and physicochemical properties of phthalonitrile resins, but also describes strategies for crosslinking and structural modification. The authors explore blends and composites of phthalonitriles with other high-performance polymers and give an outlook on the future of the field.

With the increasingly important requirement for textile manufacturers to reduce pollution in textile production, the use of enzymes in the chemical processing of fibres and textiles is rapidly gaining wider recognition because of their non-toxic and eco-friendly characteristics. They can be safely used in a wide selection of textile processes such as de-sizing, scouring, bleaching, dyeing and finishing, where the alternatives are very harsh chemicals whose disposal into the environment causes many problems.
Textile processing with enzymes aims to provide the textile technologist with an understanding of enzymes and their use with textile materials and in process engineering. It covers all the relevant aspects of textile processing with enzymes, from the chemical constitution and properties of textile materials as potential substrates for enzymes, to the processing of these materials; from basic biochemistry and enzymology to the industrial application of these biocatalysts.
The introductory chapter contains an historic overview of the subject, followed by an overview of the fundamental aspects of enzymes determining catalytic properties. There is also a review of non-fibrous materials as substrates for enzymes. Chapter four covers catalysis and processing; providing an analysis of the function and application of enzymes used in textile processing. The fifth chapter offers important insights in process engineering and describes major problems of industrial applications of enzymes in textiles. Chapter six discusses practical aspects of handling with enzymes. Enzyme stabilities, operational and storage stabilities are discussed in detail along with health and safety issues. The final chapter deals with the potential of enzymes in textile effluent treatment.
It is a valuable resource for anyone interested in the use of enzymes in textiles including textile students, scientists and engineers with a background in textiles, biotechnology, chemistry and process engineering.
Aims to provide the textile technologist with an understanding of enzymes and their use with textile materials and in process engineeringCovers the relevant aspects of textile processing with enzymes, from the chemical constitution and properties of textile materials as potential substrates for enzymes, to the processing of these materialsOutlines the benefits of using enzymes in the chemical processing of fibres and textiles thanks to their non-toxic and eco-friendly characteristics