Polymeric foams are sturdy yet lightweight materials with applications across a variety of industries, from packaging to aerospace. As demand for these materials increase, so does innovation in the development of new processes and products. This book captures the most dynamic advances in processes, technologies, and products related to the polymeric foam market. It describes the latest business trends including new microcellular commercialization, sustainable foam products, and nanofoams. It also discusses novel processes, new and environmentally friendly blowing agents, and the development and usage of various types of foams, including bead and polycarbonate, polypropylene, polyetherimide microcellular, and nanocellular. The book also covers flame-retardant foams, rigid foam composites, and foam sandwich composites and details applications in structural engineering, electronics, and insulation. Authored by leading experts in the field, this book minimizes the gap between research and application in this important and growing area.

Statistical Computing in Nuclear Imaging introduces aspects of Bayesian computing in nuclear imaging. The book provides an introduction to Bayesian statistics and concepts and is highly focused on the computational aspects of Bayesian data analysis of photon-limited data acquired in tomographic measurements. Basic statistical concepts, elements of decision theory, and counting statistics, including models of photon-limited data and Poisson approximations, are discussed in the first chapters. Monte Carlo methods and Markov chains in posterior analysis are discussed next along with an introduction to nuclear imaging and applications such as PET and SPECT. The final chapter includes illustrative examples of statistical computing, based on Poisson-multinomial statistics. Examples include calculation of Bayes factors and risks as well as Bayesian decision making and hypothesis testing. Appendices cover probability distributions, elements of set theory, multinomial distribution of single-voxel imaging, and derivations of sampling distribution ratios. C++ code used in the final chapter is also provided. The text can be used as a textbook that provides an introduction to Bayesian statistics and advanced computing in medical imaging for physicists, mathematicians, engineers, and computer scientists. It is also a valuable resource for a wide spectrum of practitioners of nuclear imaging data analysis, including seasoned scientists and researchers who have not been exposed to Bayesian paradigms.

Despite the vast knowledge accumulated on silicon, germanium, and their alloys, these materials still demand research, eminently in view of the improvement of knowledge on silicon-germanium alloys and the potentialities of silicon as a substrate for high-efficiency solar cells and for compound semiconductors and the ongoing development of nanodevices based on nanowires and nanodots. Silicon, Germanium, and Their Alloys: Growth, Defects, Impurities, and Nanocrystals covers the entire spectrum of R&D activities in silicon, germanium, and their alloys, presenting the latest achievements in the field of crystal growth, point defects, extended defects, and impurities of silicon and germanium nanocrystals. World-recognized experts are the authors of the book's chapters, which span bulk, thin film, and nanostructured materials growth and characterization problems, theoretical modeling, crystal defects, diffusion, and issues of key applicative value, including chemical etching as a defect delineation technique, the spectroscopic analysis of impurities, and the use of devices as tools for the measurement of materials quality.

The Physiological Measurement Handbook presents an extensive range of topics that encompass the subject of measurement in all departments of medicine. The handbook describes the use of instruments and techniques for practical measurements required in medicine. It covers sensors, techniques, hardware, and software as well as information on processing systems, automatic data acquisition, reduction and analysis, and their incorporation for diagnosis. Suitable for both instrumentation designers and users, the handbook enables biomedical engineers, scientists, researchers, students, health care personnel, and those in the medical device industry to explore the different methods available for measuring a particular physiological variable. It helps readers select the most suitable method by comparing alternative methods and their advantages and disadvantages. In addition, the book provides equations for readers focused on discovering applications and solving diagnostic problems arising in medical fields not necessarily in their specialty. It also includes specialized information needed by readers who want to learn advanced applications of the subject, evaluative opinions, and possible areas for future study.

This review emerged from several interdisciplinary meetings and schools gathering a group of astronomers, geologists, biologists, and chemists, attempting to share their specialized knowledge around a common question: how did life emerge on Earth? Their ultimate goal was to provide some kind of answer as a prerequisite to an even more demanding question: is life universal? The resulting state-of-the-art articles were written by twenty-five scientists telling a not-so linear story, but on the contrary, highlighting problems, gaps, and controversies. Needless to say, this approach yielded no definitive answers to both questions. However, by adopting a chronological approach to the question of the emergence of life on Earth, the only place where we know for sure that life exists; it was possible to break down this question into several sub-topics that can be addressed by the different disciplines.

The main chapters of this review present the formation and evolution of the solar system (3); the building of a habitable planet (4); prebiotic chemistry, biochemistry, and the emergence of life (5); the environmental context of the early Earth (6); and the ancient fossil record and early evolution (7). The concluding chapter (9) provides the highlights of the review and presents the different points of view about the universality of life. Two pedagogical chapters are included; one on chronometers (2), another in the form of a "frieze" (8) which summarizes in graphical form the present state of knowledge about the chronology of the emergence of life on Earth, before the Cambrian explosion.

Long before the advent of the global economy, foreign goods were transported, traded, and exchanged through myriad means, over short and long distances. Archaeological tools for identifying foreign objects, such as provenance studies, stylistic analyses, and economic documentary sources reveal non-local materials in historic and prehistoric assemblages.

Trade and exchange represent more than mere production and consumption. Exchange of goods also led to an exchange of cultural and social experiences. Discoveries of the sources of alien objects surpass archaeological expectations of exchange and geographic distance, revealing important technological advances.

With thirteen case studies from around the world, this comprehensive work provides a fresh perspective on material culture studies. Evidence of ongoing negotiation between individuals, villages, and nations provides insight into the impact of trade on the micro-, meso-, and macro-level. Covering a wide array of time periods and areas, this work will be of interest to archaeologists, anthropologists, and anyone working in cultural studies.

Optoelectronic Organic-Inorganic Semiconductor Heterojunctions summarizes advances in the development of organic-inorganic semiconductor heterojunctions, points out challenges and possible solutions for material/device design, and evaluates prospects for commercial applications. Introduces the concept and basic mechanism of semiconductor heterojunctions Describes a series of organic-inorganic semiconductor heterojunctions with desirable electrical and optical properties for optoelectronic devices Discusses typical devices such as solar cells, photo-detectors, and optoelectronic memories Outlines the materials and device challenges as well as possible strategies to promote the commercial translation of semiconductor heterojunctions-based optoelectronic devices Aimed at graduate students and researchers working in solid-state materials and electronics, this book offers a comprehensive yet accessible view of the state of the art and future directions.

Lithium-Ion Batteries and Solar Cells: Physical, Chemical, and Materials Properties presents a thorough investigation of diverse physical, chemical, and materials properties and special functionalities of lithium-ion batteries and solar cells. It covers theoretical simulations and high-resolution experimental measurements that promote a full understanding of the basic science to develop excellent device performance. Employs first-principles and the machine learning method to fully explore the rich and unique phenomena of cathode, anode, and electrolyte (solid and liquid states) in lithium-ion batteries Develops distinct experimental methods and techniques to enhance the performance of lithium-ion batteries and solar cells Reviews syntheses, fabrication, and measurements Discusses open issues, challenges, and potential commercial applications This book is aimed at materials scientists, chemical engineers, and electrical engineers developing enhanced batteries and solar cells for peak performance.

Intended as a reference for basic and practical knowledge about the synthesis, characterization, and applications of nanotechnology for students, engineers, and researchers, this book focuses on the production of different types of nanomaterials and their applications, particularly synthesis of different types of nanomaterials, characterization of different types of nanomaterials, applications of different types of nanomaterials, including the nanocomposites.

First Published in 1982, this set offers a comprehensive guide into the process of analysing water for pesticides. Carefully compiled and filled with a vast repertoire of notes, diagrams, and references this book serves as a useful reference for students of toxicology and other practitioners in their respective fields.

Genome Editing: A Practical Guide to Research and Clinical Applications is geared towards investigators interested in learning how to use CRISPR-Cas9-based technologies, with a focus on cardiovascular research and clinical applications. Covering a range of topics from the basics of genome editing to design considerations, to assessments and applications, this reference allows readers to get started and establish a full workflow from the beginning of the project to its full completion. With worked examples drawn from real-life experiments, as well as troubleshooting and pitfalls to avoid, the book serves as an essential reference for researchers and investigators in both cardiovascular and biomedical research.

Chiral Organic Pollutants introduces readers to the growing challenges of chirality in synthetic chemicals. In this volume, contributors brilliantly summarize the characteristics of chiral pollutants to provide tools and techniques for effectively assessing their environmental and human health risks. Chapters cover recent research on the physicochemical properties, sources, exposure pathways, environmental fate, toxicity, and enantioselective analysis of chiral organic pollutants. Chiral Organic Pollutants also provides comprehensive discussions on the current trends in the synthesis and legislation of chiral chemicals. Key Features: Includes sampling and analytical methods for the enantioselective analysis of a wide array of chiral organic pollutants in food and the environment Summarizes recent research on the sources, fate, transport, and toxicity of chiral organic pollutants in the environment Critically examines the sources and pathways of chiral organic pollutants such as pesticides, pharmaceuticals, and flame retardants in food Includes a comprehensive discussion on current trends in the enantioselective synthesis and chiral switching of pesticides and pharmaceuticals Provides analysis of current national and international regulations of chiral synthetic chemicals The use of chiral synthetic chemicals such as pesticides, pharmaceuticals, personal care products, and halogenated flame retardants has significantly grown in the past 60 years. Hence, understanding the human and environmental health effects of chiral organic pollutants is crucial in the industry, academia, and policymaking. Chiral Organic Pollutants is an excellent textbook and reference for students, scientists, engineers, and policymakers interested in food quality, environmental pollution, chemical analysis, organic synthesis, and toxicology. Also available in the Food Analysis and Properties Series: Analysis of Nanoplastics and Microplastics in Food, edited by Leo. M.L. Nollet and Khwaja Salahuddin Siddiqi (ISBN: 9781138600188) Proteomics for Food Authentication, edited by Leo M.L. Nollet, and Semih OEtles (ISBN: 9780367205058) Mass Spectrometry Imaging in Food Analysis, edited by Leo M.L. Nollet (ISBN: 9781138370692) For a complete list of books in this series, please visit our website at: www.crcpress.com/Food-Analysis--Properties/book-series/CRCFOODANPRO

A thorough and timely update, this new edition presents principles, techniques, and applications in this sub-discipline of analytical chemistry for quantifying traces of potentially toxic organic and inorganic chemical substances found in air, soil, fish, and water, as well as serum, plasma, urine, and other body fluids. The author addresses regulatory aspects, calibration, verification, and the statistical treatment of analytical data including instrument detection limits; quality assurance/quality control; sampling and sample preparation; and techniques that are used to quantify trace concentrations of organic and inorganic chemical substances. Key Features: Fundamental principles are introduced for the more significant experimental approaches to sample preparation Principles of instrumental analysis (determinative techniques) for trace organics and trace inorganics analysis An introduction to the statistical treatment of trace analytical data How to calculate instrument detection limits based on weighted least squares confidence band calibration statistics Includes an updated series of student-tested experiments

This textbook provides a comprehensive, yet accessible, introduction to statistical mechanics. Crafted and class-tested over many years of teaching, it carefully guides advanced undergraduate and graduate students who are encountering statistical mechanics for the first time through this - sometimes - intimidating subject. The book provides a strong foundation in thermodynamics and the ensemble formalism of statistical mechanics. An introductory chapter on probability theory is included. Applications include degenerate Fermi systems, Bose-Einstein condensation, cavity radiation, phase transitions, and critical phenomena. The book concludes with a treatment of scaling theories and the renormalization group. In addition, it provides clear descriptions of how to understand the foundational mathematics and physics involved and includes exciting case studies of modern applications of the subject in physics and wider interdisciplinary areas. Key Features: Presents the subject in a clear and entertaining style which enables the author to take a sophisticated approach whilst remaining accessible Contains contents that have been carefully reviewed with a substantial panel to ensure that coverage is appropriate for a wide range of courses, worldwide Accompanied by volumes on thermodynamics and non-equilibrium statistical mechanics, which can be used in conjunction with this book, on courses which cover both thermodynamics and statistical mechanics

Containing the latest, groundbreaking discoveries in the field, this text outlines the basics of Einstein's theory of gravity with a focus on its most important astrophysical consequences, including stellar structures, black holes and the physics of gravitational waves. Blending advanced topics - usually not found in introductory textbooks - with examples, pedagogical boxes, mathematical tools and practical applications of the theory, this textbook maximises learning opportunities and is ideal for master and graduate students in Physics and Astronomy. Key features: * Provides a self-contained and consistent treatment of the subject that does not require advanced previous knowledge of the field. * Explores the subject with a new focus on gravitational waves and astrophysical relativity, unlike current introductory textbooks. * Fully up-to-date, containing the latest developments and discoveries in the field.

There is an important overlap between science and design. The most significant technological developments cannot be produced without designers to conceptualize them. By the same token, designers cannot do their job properly without a good understanding of the scientific or technical principles that are being developed within the product. Science in Design: Solidifying Design with Science and Technology reveals the significance of the essential yet understudied intersection of design and scientific academic research and encompasses technological development, scientific principles, and the point of overlap between science and design. Encourages readers to comprehend the role of science in all facets of design Discusses the fundamental involvement of science required for engineering and design irrespective of whether the design is from an individual, business, or social perspective Covers the ontology, characteristics, and application of science in major fields of design education and design research, with an introduction of emerging practices transforming sustainable growth through applied behavioral models Depicts the art and science of material selection using new design techniques and technology advances like augmented reality, AI, and decision-support toolkits This unique book will benefit scientists, technologists, and engineers, as well as designers and professionals, across a variety of industries dealing with scientific analysis of design research methodology, design lifecycle, and problem solving.

Did the Universe have a beginning? Will it have an end? Or has it always been the same, never changing? This is the subject of cosmology; the study of the Universe, and this book provides a perfect introduction to the subject for anyone that is interested in the wonders of our Universe This book provides an accessible overview of the Standard Model of Cosmology, which is explained in six Cosmological Clues, including evidence for the Big Bang and dark matter and dark energy - the keystones of modern cosmology. It takes readers through some of the most exciting questions in cosmology, such as what evidence do we have that the Universe started from the Big Bang? Has dark matter been observed? Will we ever know what dark energy is? Are the multiverses real? And could the Universe be a hologram? This book is an ideal guide for anyone interested in finding out more about our Universe. It will be of interest to those studying cosmology for the first time, including readers without a scientific background, who have an interest in looking up at the stars and wondering where they all came from! Key features: Contains the latest evidence for the Big Bang, dark matter, and dark energy and explores exciting scientific ideas, such as inflation and multiverses Provides a clear explanation of the main theories of how the Universe evolved based on key observations - the Cosmological Clues Gives the reader a concise introduction to the scientific process, using cosmology as the example, and explores why it has been so successful in creating the technologies we have today

Published in 1974: The CRC Handbook of Materials Science provides a current and readily accessible guide to the physical properties of solid state and structural materials.

The series Advances in Stem Cell Biology is a timely and expansive collection of comprehensive information and new discoveries in the field of stem cell biology. Recent Advances in iPSC-derived Cell Types, Volume 4 addresses how different cell types can be derived from induced pluripotent stem cells. Somatic cells can be reprogrammed into Induced pluripotent stem cells by the expression of specific transcription factors. These cells are transforming biomedical research in the last 15 years. The volume teaches readers about current advances in the field. This book describes the use of induced pluripotent stem cells to form different cell types which can be used in cell therapy as well as to model several diseases in vitro, enabling us to study the cellular and molecular mechanisms involved in different pathologies. In recent years, remarkable progress has been made in the obtention of induced pluripotent stem cells and their differentiation into several cellular populations, tissues and organs using state-of-art techniques. This volume will cover what we know so far about the use of iPSCs to derive different cell types, such as: erythroid cells, mucosal-associated invariant T cells, megakaryocytes, cerebral cortical neurons, inner ear cell types, airway epithelial cells, male germ cells, trophoblasts, cardiomyocytes, sspancreatic cells, and more. The volume is written for researchers and scientists interested in stem cell therapy, cell biology, regenerative medicine, and organ transplantation; and is contributed by world-renowned authors in the field.

This volume first considers the categories of zinc metalloenzymes, together with models of the enzymic metal-ion binding sites. It covers the nutritional aspects of zinc: its absorption and excretion, its influence on the activity of enzymes and hormones, and the zinc deficiency syndrome.

This book summarises the development of experimental techniques for determining the impact mechanical properties of fibre reinforced epoxy laminates, and the experimental results obtained for the tensile, compressive and interlaminar shear properties of various epoxy laminates.

This book explores recent developments in QIA and describes the application of the theory to different branches of wave physics, from plasma physics, quantum physics, and ionospheric radio wave propagation to acoustics, optics, and astrophysics. This is an up-to-the-minute exposition of the latest developments in an important new area, written by authors of outstanding reputation. A rich source of both theoretical methods and practical applications, it covers a wide range of problems of general physical significance. Until recently, there was no effective method for describing waves in weakly anisotropic inhomogeneous media. The method of quasi-isotropic approximation (QIA) of geometrical optics was developed to overcome this problem. The QIA approach bridges the gap between geometrical optics of isotropic media (Rytov method) and that of anisotropic media (Courant-Lax approach), thus providing a complete picture of the geometrical optics of inhomogeneous media.

In this important book, the author summarizes and generalizes the results of 25 years of work in this exciting field, which has been developing extensively within the last few decades. The reader will find discussions of many crystals that were investigated in the microwave region, including low-dimensional and ferroelectric semiconductors, protonic conductors, quasi-one-dimensional H-bonded. and other order-disorder ferroelectrics. This volume is an essential reference for all scientists and graduate students whose interests are connected to the physics of ferroelectrics and related materials; the physics of structural phase transitions; and superionic conductors. It will also be of value to those interested in developing or exploiting microwave measurement techniques.

Lithium-ion batteries are the most promising among the secondary battery technologies, for providing high energy and high power required for hybrid electric vehicles (HEV) and electric vehicles (EV). Lithium-ion batteries consist of conventional graphite or lithium titanate as anode and lithium transition metal-oxides as cathode. A lithium salt dissolved in an aprotic solvent such as ethylene carbonate and diethylene carbonate is used as electrolyte. This rechargeable battery operates based on the principle of electrochemical lithium insertion/re-insertion or intercalation/de-intercalation during charging/discharging of the battery. It is essential that both electrodes have layered structure which should accept and release the lithium-ion. In advanced lithium-ion battery technologies, other than layered anodes are also considered. High cell voltage, high capacity as well as energy density, high Columbic efficiency, long cycle life, and convenient to fabricate any size or shape of the battery, are the vital features of this battery technology. Lithium-ion batteries are already being used widely in most of the consumer electronics such as mobile phones, laptops, PDAs etc. and are in early stages of application in HEV and EV, which will have far and wide implications and benefits to society. The book contains ten chapters, each focusing on a specific topic pertaining to the application of lithium-ion batteries in Electric Vehicles. Basic principles, electrode materials, electrolytes, high voltage cathodes, recycling spent Li-ion batteries and battery charge controller are addressed. This book is unique among the countable books focusing on the lithium-ion battery technologies for vehicular applications. It provides fundamentals and practical knowledge on the lithium-ion battery for vehicular application. Students, scholars, academicians, and battery and automobile industries will find this volume useful.

Membrane-Distillation in Desalination is an attempt to provide the latest knowledge, state of the art and demystify outstanding issues that delay the deployment of the technology on a large scale. It includes new updates and comprehensive coverage of the fundamentals of membrane distillation technology and explains the energy advantage of membrane distillation for desalination when compared to traditional techniques such as thermal or reverse osmosis. The book includes the latest pilot test results from around the world on membrane distillation desalination.