The author's approach is one of continuum models of the aerodynamic flow interacting with a flexible structure whose behavior is governed by partial differential equations. Both linear and nonlinear models are considered although much of the book is concerned with the former while keeping the latter clearly in view. A complete chapter is also devoted to nonlinear theory. The author has provided new insights into the classical inviscid aerodynamics and raises novel and interesting questions on fundamental issues that have too often been neglected or forgotten in the development of the early history of the subject. The author contrasts his approach with discrete models for

the unsteady aerodynamic flow and the finite element model for the structure. Much of the aeroelasticity has been developed with applications formerly inmind because of its enormous consequences for the safety of aircraft.

Aeroelastic instabilities such as divergence and flutter and aeroelastic responses to gusts can pose a significant hazard to the aircraft and impact its performance. Yet, it is now recognized that

there are many other physical phenomena that have similar characteristics ranging from flows around flexible tall buildings and long span bridges, alternate energy sources such as electric power generation by smart structures to flows internal to the human body.

From the foreword:

"For the theorist and applied mathematician who wishes an introduction to this fascinating subject as well as for the experienced aeroelastician who is open to new challenges and a fresh viewpoint,

this book and its author have much to offer the reader."

Earl Dowell, Duke University, USA

"

These Proceedings comprise the bulk of the papers presented at the Inter national Conference on Semigroups of Opemtors: Theory and Contro held 14-18 December 1998, Newport Beach, California, U.S.A. The intent of the Conference was to highlight recent advances in the the ory of Semigroups of Operators which provides the abstract framework for the time-domain solutions of time-invariant boundary-value/initial-value problems of partial differential equations. There is of course a firewall between the ab stract theory and the applications and one of the Conference aims was to bring together both in the hope that it may be of value to both communities. In these days when all scientific activity is judged by its value on "dot com" it is not surprising that mathematical analysis that holds no promise of an immediate commercial product-line, or even a software tool-box, is not high in research priority. We are particularly pleased therefore that the National Science Foundation provided generous financial support without which this Conference would have been impossible to organize. Our special thanks to Dr. Kishan Baheti, Program Manager."

Breaking with the traditional treatment of random processes in engineering
On the surface, Introduction to Random Processes in Engineering is simply a first-rate textbook for senior or first-year graduate engineering courses in stochastic processes. A closer look, however, reveals an innovative book-rich with examples and commonsense explanations-that demystifies theories, eliminates ambiguities, and provides a solid, up-to-date introduction to this important subject.
Departing from the classical texts of the sixties and seventies in its coverage of random signals and data processing, Introduction to Random Processes in Engineering addresses the latest advances in communication, control engineering, and signal processing by allowing all processes to be multidimensional with an emphasis on discrete-time processes and systems.
Unlike current texts, this volume provides a strong mathematical perspective for its engineering topics without getting bogged down in technicalities. It employs mathematics to achieve clarity and precision, and at times even uses the theorem/proof style to emphasize mathematical fine points. This approach is particularly advantageous when dealing with random data, and when building an understanding of the many computer programs routinely used, its theoretical principles, and the results it generates.
Assuming a senior-level background in probability theory and some acquaintance with linear systems and signals, the book provides:
* A review chapter of the formulas used later in the book
* Illustrative examples
* Emphasis in simulation techniques
* Problems accompanying each chapter that often introduce the student to other relevant material
* Notes and comments following each chapter that encourage additional reading as well as historical explorations in the field
* Tips for using the material at various levels of instruction
With its logical and systematically ordered presentation of the material, as well as its fresh approach, Introduction to Random Processes in Engineering is both a superior textbook and a valuable reference for practicing engineers and researchers in the field.