Science & Nature - Books

The Men in the Walls

Science & Nature

"The Men in the Walls" is a thought-provoking science fiction short tale by William Tenn, pen name for Philip Klass. This story provides a unique and unpleasant look at human behavior and cultural norms. The novel takes place in a future world where people live in communal homes with retractable walls that disclose hidden chambers for personal space. The story follows Peter Corey, a newbie to one of these community homes, as he uncovers the unpleasant truth about the individuals who live there. He becomes increasingly aware of "men in the walls" - people who have decided to live their entire lives secluded within the wall compartments, avoiding societal connections. As Peter looks deeper into the mystery, he wrestles with issues of conformity, individualism, and the extent people would go to escape societal expectations. He also faces the terrible fact of people voluntarily withdrawing from human contact, resulting in intense emotions of isolation and alienation. "The Men in the Walls" by William Tenn is a frightening investigation of the human psyche and the effects of extreme social isolation. The ominous atmosphere and psychological complexity of the narrative make it a noteworthy work of science fiction, encouraging readers to consider the complexities of human relationships and the impact of societal standards on individual choices.

Computational Multiscale Modeling of Multiphase Nanosystems

Science & Nature

Computational Multiscale Modeling of Multiphase Nanosystems: Theory and Applications presents a systematic description of the theory of multiscale modeling of nanotechnology applications in various fields of science and technology. The problems of computing nanoscale systems at different structural scales are defined, and algorithms are given for their numerical solutions by the quantum/continuum mechanics, molecular dynamics, and mesodynamics methods. Emphasis is given to the processes of the formation, movement, and interaction of nanoparticles; the formation of nanocomposites; and the processes accompanying the application of nanocomposites. The book concentrates on different types of nanosystems: solid, liquid, gaseous, and multi-phase, consisting of various elements interacting with each other, and with other elements of the nanosystem and with the environment. The book includes a large number of examples of numerical modeling of nanosystems.The valuable information presented here will be useful to engineers, researchers, and postgraduate students engaged in the design and research in the field of nanotechnology.

Emotional

Science & Nature

We’ve all been told that thinking rationally is the key to success. But at the cutting edge of science, researchers are discovering that feeling is every bit as important as thinking in this "lively exposé of the growing consensus about the limited power of rationality and decision-making" (The New York Times Book Review).You make hundreds of decisions every day, from what to eat for breakfast to how you should invest, and not one of those decisions would be possible without emotion. It has long been said that thinking and feeling are separate and opposing forces in our behavior. But as Leonard Mlodinow, the best-selling author of Subliminal, tells us, extraordinary advances in psychology and neuroscience have proven that emotions are as critical to our well-being as thinking. How can you connect better with others? How can you make sense of your frustration, fear, and anxiety? What can you do to live a happier life? The answers lie in understanding your emotions. Journeying from the labs of pioneering scientists to real-world scenarios that have flirted with disaster, Mlodinow shows us how our emotions can help, why they sometimes hurt, and what we can learn in both instances. Using deep insights into our evolution and biology, Mlodinow gives us the tools to understand our emotions better and to maximize their benefits. Told with his characteristic clarity and fascinating stories, Emotional explores the new science of feelings and offers us an essential guide to making the most of one of nature’s greatest gifts.

Renewable Energy and Sustainability

Science & Nature

Renewable Electricity and Sustainability: Prospects in Developing Economies is the first book of its kind to be dedicated entirely to the needs of emerging economies. It provides readers with a comprehensive review of current renewable energy technologies, their status in emerging economies, and the potential for sustainable renewable electricity generation in those countries. A multidisciplinary approach is used to assess the needs and challenges of each region, which is supported by quantitative analyses of the current and future potential for renewable electricity generation. Real-world examples are also provided from the respective electricity sectors of each region.This resource is a unique reference for graduates and researchers on the social, technical and economic landscape of renewable energy in emerging economies and would also be useful to NGO’s and policymakers in developing countries or those working in sustainable development. Focuses specifically on the renewable energy and sustainability needs of developing economies Explores the renewable energy potential of developing countries and how this can be converted to sustainable electricity generation, supported by quantitative analyses and real-world case studies Addresses energy efficiency, energy management and the socioeconomic aspects of renewable electricity generation in developing countries, in addition to each renewable energy resource

Wearable and Implantable Medical Devices

Science & Nature

Wearable and Implantable Medical Devices: Applications and Challenges, Fourth Edition highlights the new aspects of wearable and implanted sensors technology in the healthcare sector and monitoring systems. The book's contributions include several interdisciplinary domains, such as wearable sensors, implanted sensors devices, Internet-of-Things (IoT), security, real-time medical healthcare monitoring, WIBSN design and data management, encryption, and decision-support systems. Contributions emphasize several topics, including real-world applications and the design and implementation of wearable devices. This book demonstrates that this new field has a brilliant future in applied healthcare research and in healthcare monitoring systems. - Includes comprehensive information on wearable and implanted device technology, wearable and implanted sensors design, WIBSN requirements, WIBSN in monitoring systems and security concepts - Highlights machine learning and computing in healthcare monitoring systems based on WIBSN - Includes a multidisciplinary approach to different healthcare applications and their associated challenges based on wearable and implanted technologies

The Dancing Universe

Science & Nature

Marcelo Gleiser refutes the notion that science and spirituality are irreconcilable. In The Dancing Universe, he traces mystical, philosophical, and scientific ideas about the cosmos through the past twenty-five centuries, from the ancient creation myths of numerous cultures to contemporary theories about an ever-expanding universe. He also explores the lives and ideas of history’s greatest scientists, including Copernicus, Galileo, Kepler, Newton, and Einstein. By exploring how scientists have unlocked the secrets of gravity, matter, time, and space, Gleiser offers fresh perspective on the debate between science and faith.

Management of Coking Coal Resources

Science & Nature

Management of Coking Coal Resources provides a one-stop reference that focuses on sustainable mining practices using a four-point approach that includes the economical, governmental, societal, and environmental aspects of coal exploration, coking coal mining, and steelmaking applications. This type of approach galvanizes the excavation, processing methods, and end uses of coal as an energy and steelmaking source, thus ensuring that the supply of coking coal meets the future demands of the rapidly expanding economies in India and other developing countries. The book provides information on the strategic planning and revitalization of India's Jharia coalfield, addressing actionable plans for methods of extraction, master plans for mine fires, subsidence management, land use planning, and sustainable mining. Users will find a multidisciplinary reference that presents the broad range of applications, techniques, and methodologies used in maintaining coking coal quality from exploration through extraction. Provides a one-stop reference that focuses on sustainable mining practices using a four-point approachIncludes the economical, governmental, societal, and environmental aspects of coal exploration, coking coal mining, and steelmaking applicationsPresents information on the strategic planning and revitalization of India's Jharia coalfieldIncludes a broad range of the applications, techniques, and methodologies used in maintaining coking coal quality from exploration through extraction

Advanced Polymeric Materials for Sustainability and Innovations

Science & Nature

This informative volume discusses recent advancements in the research and development in synthesis, characterization, processing, morphology, structure, and properties of advanced polymeric materials. With contributions from leading international researchers and professors in academic, government and industrial institutions, Advanced Polymeric Materials for Sustainability and Innovations has a special focus on eco-friendly polymers, polymer composites, nanocomposites, and blends and materials for traditional and renewable energy. In this book the relationship between processing-morphology-property applications of polymeric materials is well established. Recent advances in the synthesis of new functional monomers has shown strong potential in generating better property polymers from renewable resources. Fundamental advances in the field of nanocomposite blends and nanostructured polymeric materials in automotive, civil, biomedical and packaging/coating applications are the highlights of this book.

Nonlinear Deformable-body Dynamics

Science & Nature

Nonlinear Deformable-body Dynamics offers a self-contained introduction to the field, and aims to stimulate research in this area. Examples guide readers through the topics and theories discussed, making them accessible to a broad, interdisciplinary audience.

Applied Physical Chemistry with Multidisciplinary Approaches

Science & Nature

Presenting illustrative case studies, highlighting technological applications, and explaining theoretical and foundational concepts, this book is an important reference source on the key concepts for modern technologies and optimization of new processes in physical chemistry. This volume combines up-to-date research findings and relevant theoretical frameworks on applied chemistry, materials, and chemical engineering. This new volume presents an up-to-date review of modern materials and chemistry concepts, issues, and recent advances in the field. Distinguished scientists and engineers from key institutions worldwide have contributed chapters that provide a deep analysis of their particular subjects. At the same time, each topic is framed within the context of a broader more multidisciplinary approach, demonstrating its relationship and interconnectedness to other areas. The premise of this book, therefore, is to offer both a comprehensive understanding of applied science and engineering as a whole and a thorough knowledge of individual subjects. This approach appropriately conveys the basic fundamentals, state-of-the-art technology, and applications of the involved disciplines, and further encourages scientific collaboration among researchers. This volume emphasizes the intersection of chemistry, math, physics, and the resulting applications across many disciplines of science and explores applied physical chemistry principles in specific areas, including the life chemistry, environmental sciences, geosciences, and materials sciences. The applications from these multidisciplinary fields illustrate methods that can be used to model physical processes, design new products and find solutions to challenging problems.

Nanoparticles Reinforced Metal Nanocomposites

Science & Nature

This book highlights recent developments related to fabrication and utilization of nanoparticle-engineered metal matrices and their composites linked to the heavy industries, temperature fasteners, high-pressure vessels, and heavy turbines, etc. The mechanical properties of newly developed metallic composites are discussed in terms of tensile modulus, hardness, ductility, crack propagation, elongation, and chemical inertness. This book presents the design, development, and implementation of state-of-the-art methods linked to nanoparticle-reinforced metal nanocomposites for a wide variety of applications. Therefore, in a nutshell, this book provides a unique platform for researchers and professionals in the area of nanoparticle-reinforced metal nanocomposites.

Hogyan kerüljük el a klímakatasztrófát?

Science & Nature

Bill Gates egy évtizedet töltött azzal, hogy a fizika, a kémia, a biológia, a mérnöki tudományok, a politikatudomány, valamint a közgazdaságtan területén tevékenykedő kutatók és szakértők bevonásával feltárja a klímaváltozás okait és vázolja a lehetséges következményeket. Az ügy ugyanis mostanra halaszthatatlanná vált. Így Gates nemcsak a zéró emisszió fontosságára hívja fel a figyelmet, hanem azt is részletezi, hogy mit kell tennünk e fontos cél elérése érdekében. A könyv tárgyilagosan és közérthetően szembesíti az olvasót a velünk szemben álló társadalmi, környezeti és tudományos kihívásokkal. Kiderül, milyen forradalmi innovációk szükségesek ahhoz, hogy megújítsuk azokat az ágazatokat, amelyek leginkább felelősek a jelenlegi helyzetért. Gates az egyén szintjén érvényes cselekvést és a karbonsemlegességet érintő, kormányokon átívelő javaslatokat egyaránt fontos szempontnak tekinti, ebben a szellemiségben elemzi a jelenleg tomboló világjárvány, valamint a 2020-as amerikai elnökválasztás lehetséges hatásait is. A karbonsemlegesség elérése nem lesz egyszerű, gyökeres változások szükségesek. Bolygónk jövője a tét, de ha követjük a könyvben ismertetett tervet, a cél teljesíthető.

Molecular Chemistry and Biomolecular Engineering

Science & Nature

This new volume is devoted to molecular chemistry and its applications to the fields of biology. It looks at the integration of molecular chemistry with biomolecular engineering, with the goal of creating new biological or physical properties to address scientific or societal challenges. It takes a both multidisciplinary and interdisciplinary perspective on the interface between molecular biology, biophysical chemistry, and chemical engineering. Molecular Chemistry and Biomolecular Engineering: Integrating Theory and Research with Practice provides effective support for the development of the laboratory and data analysis skills that researchers will draw on time and again for the practical aspects and also gives a solid grounding in the broader transferable skills.

Chwiejnym krokiem. Jak przypadki wpływają na nasz los

Science & Nature

Pasjonująca książka, która uświadamia nam, że w naszym życiu jest wiele zdarzeń równie przewidywalnych, jak kroki potykającego się człowieka, który wyszedł nad ranem z baru Leonard Mlodinow, urodzony gawędziarz,w pasjonujący sposób pokazuje, w jaki sposób nasze życie jest głęboko ukształtowane przez przypadek i losowość oraz że wszystko, od oceny wina w branżowym czasopiśmie, przez sukces korporacyjny, na ocenach w szkole i sondażach politycznych kończąc jest mniej wiarygodne, niż nam się wydaje.Pokazując prawdziwą naturę przypadku i ujawniając psychologiczne złudzenia, które powodują, że źle oceniamy otaczający nas świat, Mlodinow daje nam narzędzia potrzebne do podejmowania bardziej świadomych decyzji. Od szkolnej klasy po salę sądową i od rynków finansowych po supermarkety, intrygujące i pouczające spojrzenie Mlodinowa na to, jak przypadkowość, przypadek i prawdopodobieństwo wpływają na nasze codzienne życie, fascynuje, intryguje i nieodmiennie inspiruje. „Wspaniale klarowny przewodnik po tym, jak matematyczne prawa losowości wpływają na nasze codzienne życie”.Stephen Hawking, autor Krótkiej historii czasu

Nanomedicine for Drug Delivery and Therapeutics

Science & Nature

This book describes a broad area of nanomedicine which involves mainly applications, diseases, and diagnostics. The comprehensive coverage provides researchers, academics, and health specialists with a great tool, that includes techniques applicable to various uses.

Biofuels

Science & Nature

This will be a comprehensive multi-contributed reference work, with the Editors being highly regarded alternative fuels experts from India and Switzerland. There will be a strong orientation toward production of biofuels covering such topics as biodiesel from renewable sources, biofuels from biomass, vegetable based feedstocks from biofuel production, global demand for biofuels and economic aspects of biofuel production. Book covers the latest advances in all product areas relative to biofuels. Discusses coverage of public opinion related to biofuels. Chapters will be authored by world class researchers and practitioners in various aspects of biofuels. Provides good comprehensive coverage of biofuels for algae. Presents extensive discussion of future prospects in biofuels.

Advances in Nanotechnology and the Environmental Sciences

Science & Nature

Showcasing a selection of new research on nanotechnological applications for environmental protection along with new advanced technologies in nanochemistry, this volume presents an interdisciplinary approach that brings together materials science, chemistry, and nanotechnology. Part I of the volume looks at environmental topics that include an exploration of the challenges of the global water crisis and new technology in nanofiltration and water purification. It provides an informative overview of green nanotechnology, green nanomaterials, and green chemistry. Some of the advanced technologies discussed in Part II include the application of quantum dots, a nanochemical approach to using ICT technology, and new research on polymer nanocomposites as a smart material along with its synthesis, preparation, and properties. Other important topics are included as well.

Environmental Sustainability of Biofuels

Science & Nature

Environmental Sustainability of Biofuels: Prospects and Challenges provides a comprehensive sustainability analysis of biofuels based on lifecycle analysis and develops various multi-dimensional decision-making techniques for prioritizing biofuel production technologies. Taking a transversal approach, the book combines lifecycle sustainability assessment, lifecycle assessment, lifecycle costing analysis, social lifecycle assessment, sustainability metrics, triple bottom lines, operational research methods, and supply chain designs for investigating the critical factors and critical enablers that influence the sustainable development of biofuel industry. This book will be a valuable resource for students, researchers and practitioners seeking to deepen their knowledge of biofuels as an alternative fuel. It will equip researchers and policymakers in the energy sector with the scientific methodology and metrics needed to develop strategies for a viable sustainability transition. Provides decision-making and planning tools for the bioenergy sector Focuses on the applied aspects of environmental sustainability, offering a guide to the implementation of standard and new analyses in the commercial sector Gives readers the tools to understand the implications of policy and regulation in different locations rather than providing location-specific information that is quickly out-of-date

La Fascination de l'islam

Science & Nature

Publié pour la première fois en 1980 (dans la " Petite collection Maspero "), La Fascination de l'islam réunit deux études : l'une sur les étapes du regard occidental sur le monde musulman, du Moyen Âge au XXe siècle, et l'autre, sur les études arabes et islamiques en Europe, particulièrement précieuse pour en comprendre les évolutions récentes. Cette édition comporte une préface complétée par une étude consacrée à une pièce peu connue d'Alexandre Dumas (père), Charles VII chez ses grands vassaux, écrite en 1831 : elle narre les rapports mouvementés de Charles de Savoisy, seigneur bourguignon du début du XVe siècle, et de Yaqoub, un esclave sarrasin qu'il avait ramené d'une croisade. Par un remarquable travail d'érudition, Maxime Rodinson a reconstitué les faits authentiques dont Dumas s'était librement inspiré. Cette recherche lui permet d'établir un surprenant parallèle entre les perceptions du monde islamique au Moyen Âge –; où le Sarrasin était " l'ennemi de service ", mais respecté –;, et à l'époque romantique, montrant ainsi comment une fascination présente trouve à se nourrir des fascinations du passé : une leçon d'histoire aux implications très actuelles...

Discours sur l'origine de l'univers

Science & Nature

D’où vient l’univers ? Et d’où vient qu’il y a un univers ? Irrépressiblement, ces questions se posent à nous. Et dès qu’un discours prétend nous éclairer, nous tendons l’oreille, avides d’entendre l’écho du tout premier signal : les accélérateurs de particules vont bientôt nous révéler l’origine de l’univers en produisant des « big bang sous terre » ; les données recueillies par le satellite Planck nous dévoiler le « visage de Dieu » ; certains disent même qu’en vertu de la loi de la gravitation l’univers a pu se créer de lui-même, à partir de rien… Le grand dévoilement ne serait donc devenu qu’une affaire d’ultimes petits pas ? Rien n’est moins sûr… Car de quoi parle la physique quand elle parle d’« origine » ? Qu’est-ce que les théories actuelles sont réellement en mesure de nous révéler ? À bien les examiner, les perspectives que nous offre la cosmologie contemporaine sont plus vertigineuses encore que tout ce que nous avons imaginé : l’univers a-t-il jamais commencé ?

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