This book consists of a series of lectures introducing what the author believes to be the theoretical minimum for the understanding of nuclear spin dynamics, the branch of physics underpinning magnetic resonance techniques such as NMR and MRI. Spin dynamics ultimately concern the study of the state and time evolution of systems made by a large collection of particles possessing spin, one of the most subtle and indeed fascinating concepts in relativistic quantum mechanics and whose understanding requires a mix of quantum mechanics, Hamiltonian dynamics and advanced mathematics. Written in the concise and direct style appropriate for university lectures, this book is addressed to both undergraduate and postgraduate students who are approaching magnetic resonance studies and want to reach the theoretical minimum required to understand the wider topic and its main applications. The book is suitable for researchers who work in the field of magnetic resonance and want to know more about its theoretical fundamentals. Finally, built as a complete set of 12 lectures and 4 workshops, the book can act as a solid reference to lecturers of magnetic resonance university modules. Trained in a world-leading research laboratory internationally recognised for its contributions to the NMR field, the author has a track record in theoretical and methodological developments of nuclear spin dynamics. In this book, he tries to merge his passion for the understanding of physics through its mathematical rendering with his personal quest for the elegance of a clean, clear and satisfactory explanation.

This reference examines innovations in separation science for improved sensitivity and cost-efficiency, increased speed, higher sample throughput and lower solvent consumption in the assessment, evaluation, and validation of emerging drug compounds. It investigates breakthroughs in sample pretreatment, HPLC, mass spectrometry, capillary electrophoresis and therapeutic drug monitoring for improved productivity, precision, and safety in clinical chemistry, biomedical analysis, and forensic research.
From saliva, hair, and biological samples to illegal drugs and toxins, Separation Techniques in Clinical Chemistry is a thorough single-source guide for analytical, organic, pharmaceutical, medicinal, physical, surface, and colloid chemists and biochemists; and upper-level undergraduate and graduate students in these disciplines.

This book presents a theoretical study of the generation and conversion of phonon angular momentum in crystals. Recently, rotational motions of lattice vibrations, i.e., phonons, in crystals attract considerable attentions. As such, the book theoretically demonstrate generations of phonons with rotational motions, based on model calculations and first-principle calculations. In systems without inversion symmetry, the phonon angular momentum is shown to be caused by the temperature gradient, which is demonstrated in crystals such as wurtzite gallium nitride, tellurium, and selenium using the first-principle calculations. In systems with neither time-reversal nor inversion symmetries, the phonon angular momentum is shown to be generated by an electric field. Secondly, the book presents the microscopic mechanisms developed by the author and his collaborator on how these microscopic rotations of nuclei are coupled with electron spins. These predictions serve as building blocks for spintronics with phonons or mechanical motions.

Despite ten years of intensive research, there are still many questions concerning the nature of the electronic structure (Fermi vs non-Fermi liquid) and mechanisms of superconductivity. This book provides an up-to-date and comprehensive review of the experimental results and theoretical interpretations concerning elementary excitation spectra in high-Tc superconductor, both in the normal and superconducting states, and suggests directions where future experimental and theoretical efforts should be concentrated. A critical comparison of different theoretical models involving strong electron correlations, spin fluctuations and electron-phonon coupling is given.

This book presents a detailed look at experimental and computational techniques for accurate structure determination of free molecules. The most fundamental property of a molecule is its structure - it is a prerequisite for determining and understanding most other important properties of molecules. The determination of accurate structures is hampered by a myriad of factors, subjecting the collected data to non-negligible systematic errors. This book explains the origin of these errors and how to mitigate and even avoid them altogether. It features a detailed comparison of the different experimental and computation methods, explaining their interplay and the advantages of their combined use. Armed with this information, the reader will be able to choose the appropriate methods to determine - to a great degree of accuracy - the relevant molecular structure.

This book explains transparency in biology with emphasis on bending and absorption, which together are the essence of transparency. The reader is provided with an understanding of why the interior of the body can be made to appear transparent through the application of elementary physics. Based on the principle of transparency, emerging imaging techniques using near-infrared light to view the body transparently are explained with examples such as cancer detection and temperature imaging of deep tissues. This book is useful to many researchers, including biologists, physicists, chemists, materials scientists, and device engineers as well as developers-all who seek a deep understanding of transparency in bioimaging.

This thesis describes the application of the collinear resonance laser spectroscopy to sensitively measure the electromagnetic nuclear observables of the neutron-rich indium isotopes 115-131In. This entailed a systematic study of the efficiency of resonant ionization schemes to extract the hyperfine structure of the isotopes, the atomic charge exchange process and benchmarking of modern atomic calculations with a laser ablation ion source. This allowed determination of the root-mean-square nuclear charge radii, nuclear magnetic dipole moments, nuclear electric quadrupole moments and nuclear spins of the 113-131In isotopes with high accuracy. With a proton hole in the Z = 50 nuclear shell closure of tin and several nuclear isomer states, these measurements of the indium (Z = 49) isotope chain provided an efficient probe of the evolution of nuclear structure properties towards and at the doubly-magic nuclear shell closure of 132Sn (N = 82) - revealing unpredicted changes.

This book presents new approaches that offer a better characterization of the interrelationship between crystalline and amorphous phases. In recent years, the use of dielectric spectroscopy has significantly improved our understanding of crystallization. The combination of modern scattering methods, using either synchrotron light or neutrons and infrared spectroscopy with dielectrics, is now helping to reveal modifications of both crystalline and amorphous phases. In turn, this yields insights into the underlying physics of the crystallization process in various materials, e.g. polymers, liquid crystals and diverse liquids. The book offers an excellent introduction to a valuable application of dielectric spectroscopy, and a helpful guide for every scientist who wants to study crystallization processes by means of dielectric spectroscopy.

This book discusses fundamentally new biomedical imaging methods, such as holography, holographic and resonant interferometry, and speckle optics. It focuses on the development of holographic interference microscopy and its use in the study of phase objects such as nerve and muscle fibers subjected to the influence of laser radiation, magnetic fields, and hyperbaric conditions. The book shows how the myelin sheath and even the axon itself exhibit waveguide properties, enabling a fresh new look at the mechanisms of information transmission in the human body. The book presents theoretically and experimentally tested holographic and speckle-optical methods and devices used for investigating complex, diffusely scattering surfaces such as skin and muscle tissue. Additionally, it gives broad discussion of the authors' own original fundamental and applied research dedicated to helping physicians introduce new contact-less methods of diagnosis and treatment of diseases of the cardiovascular and neuromuscular systems into medical practice. The book is aimed at a broad spectrum of scientific specialists in the fields of speckle optics, holography, laser physics, morphology and cytochemistry, as well as medical professionals such as physiologists, neuropathologists, neurosurgeons, cardiologists and dentists.

This thesis deals with the development and in-depth study of a new class of optoelectronic material platform comprising graphene and MoS_2, in which MoS_2 is used essentially to sensitize graphene and lead to unprecedently high gain and novel opto-electronic memory effects. The results presented here open up the possibility of designing a new class of photosensitive devices which can be utilized in various optoelectronic applications including biomedical sensing, astronomical sensing, optical communications, optical quantum information processing and in applications requiring low intensity photodetection and number resolved single photon detection.

This work covers principles of Raman theory, analysis, instrumentation, and measurement, specifying up-to-the-minute benefits of Raman spectroscopy in a variety of industrial and academic fields, and how to cultivate growth in new disciplines. It contains case studies that illustrate current techniques in data extraction and analysis, as well as over 500 drawings and photographs that clarify and reinforce critical text material. The authors discuss Raman spectra of gases; Raman spectroscopy applied to crystals, applications to gemology, in vivo Raman spectroscopy, applications in forensic science, and collectivity of vibrational modes, among many other topics.

This book critically assesses the current state of knowledge on new and important detection technologies, e.g. mass spectrometry, tandem mass spectrometry, biosensor detection and tissue imaging, in connection with toxic chemical and biological agents. In general, the main topics discussed concern the risks and consequences of chemical and biological agents for human health in general, with special emphasis on all biochemical and metabolic pathways including the reproductive system. The exposome, genetic risks and the environment, various health hazard agents, risk assessment, environmental assessment and preparedness, and analysis of sub-lethal effects at the molecular level are also discussed. In closing, the book provides comprehensive information on the diagnosis of exposure, and on health concerns related to toxic chemical and biological agents.

This book is intended for beginning students, both chemistry majors and other students who require it for their program. The material is presented in a concise and student-friendly way, without the inclusion of topics unnecessary at that level. A complete section is designed to lead students through the naming of organic compounds in a self-taught manner. Reactions are grouped by mechanistic type and stereochemistry is emphasized throughout. An introduction to the spectroscopic methods used for structure determination is included. Problems are included at each stage and new in this edition are complete answers to the problems as well as an introduction to the molecules of nature.

The high time-resolution radio sky represents unexplored astronomical territory. This thesis presents a study of the transient radio sky, focussing on millisecond scales. As such, the work is concerned primarily with neutron stars. In particular this research concentrates on a recently identified group of neutron stars, known as RRATs, which exhibit radio bursts every few minutes to every few hours. After analysing neutron star birthrates, a re-analysis of the Parkes Multibeam Pulsar Survey is described which has resulted in the discovery of 19 new transient radio sources. Of these, 12 have been seen to repeat and a follow-up campaign of observations has been undertaken. These studies have greatly increased our knowledge of the rotational properties of RRATs and enable us to conclude that they are pulsars with extreme nulling and/or pulse-to-pulse modulation. Although the evolution of neutron stars post-supernova is not yet understood, it seems that RRATs fit into the emerging picture in which pulsar magnetospheres switch between stable configurations.

During the past decade, modern high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) utilization has expanded greatly, especially in the quality control of pharmaceutical products in drug quality control laboratories. This book provides an extensive collection of technical information about HPLC-Columns (physicochemical properties and chromatographic characteristics), from various manufacturers, and helps analysts to decide on the ideal approach for their analysis according to the requirements of drug manufacturers specifi cations and the desired Pharmacopeia. In addition, the authors give practical advice on how to prepare mobile phases, choose a suitable detector, and set up an HPLC analysis. This book is comprehensive for the average professional or technician who plans to work with modern HPLC. This book is useful for most Drug Quality Control Laboratories where modern HPLC is utilized. Following a hands-on approach, the book gives key insights into the pharmaceutical applications of HPLC and the latest requirements of the major regulatory agencies such as ICH, FDA, or USP.

This book is devoted to advanced materials and perspective sensors, which is one of the most important problems in nanotechnology and security. This book is useful for researchers, scientist and graduate students in the fields of solid state physics, nanotechnology and security.

This thesis presents significant advances in the imaging and theory of the ultrafast dynamics of surface plasmon polariton fields. The author details construction of a sub-10 femtosecond and sub-10 nanometer spatiotemporal resolution ultrafast photoemission microscope which is subsequently used for the discovery of topological meron and skyrmion-like plasmonic quasiparticles. In particular, this enabled the creation of movies of the surface plasmon polariton fields evolving on sub-optical wavelength scales at around 0.1 femtosecond per image frame undergoing vortex phase evolution. The key insight that the transverse spin of surface plasmon polaritons undergoes a texturing into meron or skyrmion-like topological quasiparticles (defined by the geometric charge of the preparation) follows. In addition, this thesis develops an analytical theory of these new topological quasiparticles, opening new avenues of research, while the ultrafast microscopy techniques established within will also be broadly applicable to studies of nanoscale optical excitations in electronic materials.

A unique look at some of the hottest topics in photophysics and photochemistry today

The study of molecules in excited states has exploded over the past decade, providing new insights into conformational changes in organic molecules and opening up research opportunities for scientists and professionals in chemistry, physics, biology, medicine, and materials engineering.

Using conformational analysis as a unifying concept, this important new work provides readers with a cohesive and cutting–edge overview of this fascinating and challenging field. From conformational changes accompanying photoinduced electron transfer to elementary photophysical and photochemical processes in living systems, the most representative and challenging topics are carefully gleaned from the vast literature, highlighting major conceptual problems along with the relevant experimental techniques. Authoritative, detailed contributions from both experimentalists and theoreticians include coverage of:

• Conformational changes in intramolecular excited state electron transfer
• Conformational aspects of excited state proton transfer
• The novel topic of solute–solvent friction in chemical reactions
• Mechanisms and structural aspects of exciplex formations
• Conformational aspects of organic photochemistry
• Calculations of excited state conformational properties

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is one of the most important tools in clinical diagnostics and biomedical research. The number of MRI scanners operating around the world is estimated to be approximately 20,000, and the development of contrast agents, currently used in about a third of the 50 million clinical MRI examinations performed every year, has largely contributed to this significant achievement.

This completely revised and extended second edition: " "Includes new chapters on targeted, responsive, PARACEST and nanoparticle MRI contrast agents.Covers the basic chemistries, MR physics and the most important techniques used by chemists in the characterization of MRI agents from every angle from synthesis to safety considerations.Is written for all of those involved in the development and application of contrast agents in MRI.Presented in colour, it provides readers with true representation and easy interpretation of the images.

A word from the Authors:

"Twelve years after the first edition published, we are convinced that the chemistry of MRI agents has a bright future. By assembling all important information on the design principles and functioning of magnetic resonance imaging probes, this book intends to be a useful tool for both experts and newcomers in the field. We hope that it helps inspire further work in order to create more efficient and specific imaging probes that will allow materializing the dream of seeing even deeper and better inside the living organisms."

"Reviews of the First Edition: "

..".attempts, for the first time, to review the whole spectrum of involved chemical disciplines in this technique..."--Journal of the American Chemical Society..".well balanced in its scope and attention to detail...a valuable addition to the library of MR scientists..."--NMR in Biomedicine

The book covers in particular state-of-the-art scientific research about product quality control and related health and environmental safety topics, including human, animal and plant safety assurance issues. These conference proceedings provide contemporary information on the general theoretical, metrological and practical issues of the production and application of reference materials. Reference materials play an integral role in physical, chemical and related type of measurements, ensuring their uniformity, comparability and the validity of quantitative analysis as well as, as a result, the objectivity of decisions concerning the elimination of technical barriers in commercial and economic, scientific and technical and other spheres of cooperation. The book is intended for researchers and practitioners in the field of chemistry, metrologists, technical physics, as well as for specialists in analytical laboratories, or working for companies and organizations involved in the production, distribution and use of reference materials.

Covering a wide-ranging facet of a "gold-standard" targeted mass spectrometry (MS) method for the consistent detection and accurate quantification of preselected proteins in complex biological matrices, Selected Reaction Monitoring Mass Spectrometry (SRM-MS) in Proteomics: A Comprehensive View describes: The knowledge-based development of highly efficient SRM methodology including assay workflow, selection of proteins, peptides, transitions and its validation, and quality assessment Available bioinformatic tools - for both pre-acquisition method development and post-MS acquisition data analysis and data repositories Various relative and absolute quantification techniques SRM-MS' widespread applications in biomarker development and in clinical studies, as well as in the analysis of various posttranslational modifications (PTMs) Current challenges and contemporary trends to overcome those difficulties In addition, it features the historical development of modern-day mass spectrometry with its vivid applications and also covers basic MS instrumentation, ionization techniques, and various proteomics approaches. Comprehensive discussion, extensive references at the end of each chapter, and the list of review articles in the bibliography offer invaluable resources for advanced readings. Researchers from the undergraduate to postgraduate level and beyond in both academic or industry settings studying and working on mass spectrometry and/or proteomics will benefit from this book.

This book highlights the latest advances in bioMEMS for biosensing applications. It comprehensively reviews different detection methods, including colorimetric, fluorescence, luminescence, bioluminescence, chemiluminescence, biochemiluminescence, and electrochemiluminescence, and presents various bioMEMS for each, together with recent examples. The book also offers an overview of the history of BioMEMS and the design and manufacture of the first bioMEMS-based devices.

This text is aimed at people who have some familiarity with high-resolution NMR and who wish to deepen their understanding of how NMR experiments actually 'work'. This revised and updated edition takes the same approach as the highly-acclaimed first edition. The text concentrates on the description of commonly-used experiments and explains in detail the theory behind how such experiments work. The quantum mechanical tools needed to analyse pulse sequences are introduced set by step, but the approach is relatively informal with the emphasis on obtaining a good understanding of how the experiments actually work. The use of two-colour printing and a new larger format improves the readability of the text. In addition, a number of new topics have been introduced:

How product operators can be extended to describe experiments in AX2 and AX3 spin systems, thus making it possible to discuss the important APT, INEPT and DEPT experiments often used in carbon-13 NMR.Spin system analysis i.e. how shifts and couplings can be extracted from strongly-coupled (second-order) spectra.How the presence of chemically equivalent spins leads to spectral features which are somewhat unusual and possibly misleading, even at high magnetic fields.A discussion of chemical exchange effects has been introduced in order to help with the explanation of transverse relaxation.The double-quantum spectroscopy of a three-spin system is now considered in more detail.

Reviews of the First Edition

"For anyone wishing to know what really goes on in their NMR experiments, I would highly recommend this book" - "Chemistry World"

..".I warmly recommend for budding NMR spectroscopists, or others who wish to deepen their understanding of elementary NMR theory or theoretical tools" - "Magnetic Resonance in Chemistry"

This book reviews the development, characterization and applications of aptamers in different areas of biotechnology ranging from therapeutics to diagnostics and protein purification. Hailed as chemical antibodies, these single-stranded nucleic acid receptors were predicted to supersede antibodies in traditional assays, such as ELISA, within a short time. While this has yet to happen, readers will find in this book a deep insight into the progress of aptamer technology and a critical discussion about the limitations that need to be overcome in order to find wider acceptance and use outside of the still relatively small aptamer-community. This book covers all aspects of aptamer generation and application for the aptamer-experienced reader and curious novice alike, with the addition of an industry perspective on the future of aptamer-use in biotechnology.

This book reveals unique transport phenomena and functionalities in topological insulators coupled with magnetism and superconductivity. Topological insulators are a recently discovered class of materials that possess a spin-momentum-locked surface state. Their exotic spin texture makes them an exciting platform for investigating emergent phenomena, especially when coupled with magnetism or superconductivity. Focusing on the strong correlation between electricity and magnetism in magnetic topological insulators, the author presents original findings on current-direction-dependent nonreciprocal resistance, current-induced magnetization reversal and chiral edge conduction at the domain wall. In addition, he demonstrates how the coupling between superconductivity and topological surface state leads to substantial nonreciprocal resistance. The author also elucidates the origins of these phenomena and deepens readers' understanding of the topologically nontrivial electronic state. The book includes several works which are published in top journals and were selected for the President's Award by the University of Tokyo and for the Ikushi Prize, awarded to distinguished Ph.D. students in Japan.