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Handbook of Choice Modelling: Second Edition
This thoroughly revised second edition Handbook provides an authoritative and in-depth overview of choice modelling, a key technique used across disciplines as diverse as transport, marketing, health and environmental economics.Composed of contributions from influential senior researchers, this erudite Handbook covers all the significant steps of choice modelling analysis, including underlying economic and psychological theory, data collection and sampling, model specification and estimation, and interpretation and use of results. New chapters examining topics including endogeneity in discrete choice models, machine learning, and novel data sources such as virtual reality provide a fresh outlook on this fundamental empirical methodology. This second edition of the Handbook of Choice Modelling will be an important read for academics and students across disciplines that have an interest in behavioural modelling. It will also benefit practitioners seeking to understand the theoretical underpinning of their work.
Sustainable Universities and Colleges: Sustainability Advances in Institutions of Higher Education (New Horizons in Sustainability and Business series)
This book provides a set of decision and organizational models for the advancement of sustainability in higher education. International authors present how universities and colleges have attempted to advance sustainability both within and outside of their institutions, and how institutions of higher education can continue to upgrade those efforts to help lead societies toward greater sustainability in the future.Transdisciplinary in scope, this book emphasizes the need for universities to advance both environmental and socio-economic sustainability, specifically by utilizing five key higher education functions: research, operations, outreach, teaching and stakeholder interactions. Authors explain how higher education institutions have the knowledge, legitimacy, and resources to make significant impacts on individuals and systems in their respective communities. They discuss the evolving nature of sustainability education in its movement away from anthropocentrism toward forward-thinking ecocentrism, with increased recognition of indigenous worldviews. Examining various avenues for innovation, authors dissect issues such as infrastructure, research and curriculum integration, and internal and external community engagement, and explore how sustainable solutions require commitment on all levels, and in all disciplines.This book is a crucial resource for students and academics in management and sustainability and management and universities. It is also an inspiring read for university and college stakeholders including sustainability officers and staff and administrators.
Research Handbook on Climate Change Litigation (Research Handbooks in Climate Law series)
This Research Handbook provides a comprehensive depiction of the various stages, opportunities and challenges of climate change litigation at national and international levels from an innovative practice-oriented perspective. Bringing together expert authors from a range of legal backgrounds, the Research Handbook features contributions not only from experienced academics researching in the field, but also from strategic planning specialists and legal coordinators for organizations involved in climate-related litigation. It follows the entire journey of climate-related disputes, from an examination of the approaches and decisions made before initiating legal proceedings, through the various procedural and legal hurdles and challenges during proceedings, to an exploration of the post-litigation challenges that may arise. The climate litigation process is also analyzed in the context of different international forums, such as the International Court of Justice (ICJ), the International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea (ITLOS), and the World Heritage Convention, among others. The Research Handbook on Climate Change Litigation is a vital resource for scholars and students in arbitration and dispute resolution, climate change law and environmental law. Practitioners such as judges, lawyers, legal advisers for NGOs and public servants in administration will also find this book beneficial.
Handbook on Climate Change and Environmental Governance in China (Handbooks of Research on Contemporary China series)
This timely Handbook explores climate challenges and environmental governance in China. Bringing together established scholars and emerging researchers, it systematically examines the historical evolution of Chinese climate policies and institutions and the successes, failures and dilemmas that have arisen from this.Combining theoretical insight with cutting-edge empirical findings, this Handbook focuses on the role of politics in environmental governance. Contributing authors use innovative methodologies to analyse the diverse climate adaptation strategies, priorities and efforts of institutions across China, from central and local government, to citizen and societal organisations. They cover key topics including clean energy transitions, the green economy, climate finance, and environmental data collection. Ultimately, the Handbook provides a detailed overview of the significant progress China has made in environmental policymaking and implementation whilst highlighting the need for continued efforts towards a sustainable development path for the future.The Handbook on Climate Change and Environmental Governance in China is an invaluable resource for students and scholars of Asian politics and environmental regulation and governance. It is also a useful guide for policy researchers seeking an insight into the Chinese climate policy landscape.
The Role of Financial Markets in Achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (Progressing the Sustainable Development Goals series)
Exploring the role of financial markets in implementing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), this book focuses particularly on the banking and insurance sectors and the capital market. Magdalena Ziolo brings together expert contributors to discuss the role of financial institutions in implementing environmental and social goals, including green finance, socially responsible investing, and social inclusion through microfinance.Presenting the key challenges of implementation and the actions taken by financial markets to support the SDGs, the book looks at the SDGs, sustainable development, and environmental, social and governance ESG risk as interconnected factors. Chapters highlight how financial markets can help green the economy through employing good practices for sustainability, including transparency, sustainable reporting and avoiding greenwashing. Attention is paid especially to the direct and indirect impacts of banks on the SDGS, covering banks’ operational, investment and financial activities.With a forward-looking approach, this book is ideal for students and scholars focusing on sustainable finance, ESG and the implementation of the SDGs more broadly.
People of the Rainforest: The Villas Boas Brothers, Explorers and Humanitarians of the Amazon
by John HemmingIn 1945, three young brothers joined and eventually led Brazil's first government-sponsored expedition into its Amazonian rainforests. After more expeditions into unknown terrain, they became South America's most famous explorers, spending the rest of their lives with the resilient tribal communities they found there. People of the Rainforest recounts the Villas Boas brothers' four thrilling and dangerous 'first contacts' with isolated indigenous people, and their lifelong mission to learn about their societies and, above all, help them adapt to modern Brazil without losing their cultural heritage, identity and pride. Author and explorer John Hemming vividly traces the unique adventures of these extraordinary brothers, who used their fame to change attitudes to native peoples and to help protect the world's surviving tropical rainforests, under threat again today.
Sustainable Management of Mining Waste and Tailings: A Circular Economy Approach
by Eric D. van Hullebusch Alok Prasad Das Ata AkçilIntegrating waste management, environmental sustainability, and economic development is a prime milestone in the circular economy. Critical metals recovery from mining tailings and secondary resources has significant potential, with widespread applications in high-tech industries that are critical to modern society and sustainable development. This book discusses technological advances for managing industrial and mining waste through circular economy approaches and successful critical metal recovery from secondary resources. It highlights how reprocessing of mine waste and tailings results in development of critical raw materials that significantly reduce the mining burden and ensure the lucrative use of waste materials.Features: Describes advances in remediation and valorization technologies for mining wastes Details biotechnological methods, cutting edge research, and applications Covers use of waste mining resources for economic growth and novel opportunities Discusses IR4.0 and machine learning methods Includes reports and case studies on mining waste in value-added products and recovery of strategically important critical minerals This book will be of value to researchers and advanced students working in the mining, chemical and environmental engineering, and renewable energy sectors.
The Global Life of Mines: Mining and Post-Mining in Comparative Perspective (Dislocations #37)
by Antonio Maria Pusceddu Filippo M. ZerilliResource extraction exists in diverse settings across the world and is carried out through different practices. The Global Life of Mines provides a comprehensive framework examining the spatial and temporal relationships between mining and postmining as interrelated and coexisting features within the global minescape. The book brings together scholars from various fields, such as anthropology, geography, sociology and political science, examining ethnographic case studies throughout the Americas (Bolivia, Brazil, Peru, USA), Africa (Democratic Republic of Congo) and Europe (Italy, Arctic Norway and Spain).
The Global Life of Mines: Mining and Post-Mining in Comparative Perspective (Dislocations #37)
by Antonio Maria Pusceddu Filippo M. ZerilliResource extraction exists in diverse settings across the world and is carried out through different practices. The Global Life of Mines provides a comprehensive framework examining the spatial and temporal relationships between mining and postmining as interrelated and coexisting features within the global minescape. The book brings together scholars from various fields, such as anthropology, geography, sociology and political science, examining ethnographic case studies throughout the Americas (Bolivia, Brazil, Peru, USA), Africa (Democratic Republic of Congo) and Europe (Italy, Arctic Norway and Spain).
Environmental Economics and Natural Resource Management
by David A. AndersonThe tools of environmental economics guide policymakers as they weigh development against nature, present against future, and certain benefits against uncertain consequences. The policies and research findings explained in this textbook are relevant to decisions made daily by individuals, firms, and governments. This textbook offers instructors and students a user-friendly, relevant, and up-to-date introduction to these topics while covering recent advancements in the field and significant political and economic changes.The book has been thoroughly updated while retaining the story-based narratives and visual emphasis of previous editions, capturing students’ attention with full-color photos, graphs, and illustrations. This sixth edition includes: Updated coverage of international environmental regulations, the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on the environment, the effects of war on the environment, recent environmental summits and agreements, the evolving energy and transportation sectors, and trailblazing policies and research Expanded coverage of environmental issues and approaches in underrepresented countries and continents New discussions of EV batteries, populist leaders, carbon leakage, food waste, and ecological resilience Revised digital supplements, including a solutions guide, PowerPoints, and sample tests. Environmental Economics and Natural Resource Management promotes environmental and economic literacy with policy-oriented, application-based content delivered in concise, accessible discussions. Through its engaging approach, the text brings the economic way of thinking into discussions of personal, community, corporate, and government activities that affect environmental assets and the quality of life.
Environmental Economics and Natural Resource Management
by David A. AndersonThe tools of environmental economics guide policymakers as they weigh development against nature, present against future, and certain benefits against uncertain consequences. The policies and research findings explained in this textbook are relevant to decisions made daily by individuals, firms, and governments. This textbook offers instructors and students a user-friendly, relevant, and up-to-date introduction to these topics while covering recent advancements in the field and significant political and economic changes.The book has been thoroughly updated while retaining the story-based narratives and visual emphasis of previous editions, capturing students’ attention with full-color photos, graphs, and illustrations. This sixth edition includes: Updated coverage of international environmental regulations, the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on the environment, the effects of war on the environment, recent environmental summits and agreements, the evolving energy and transportation sectors, and trailblazing policies and research Expanded coverage of environmental issues and approaches in underrepresented countries and continents New discussions of EV batteries, populist leaders, carbon leakage, food waste, and ecological resilience Revised digital supplements, including a solutions guide, PowerPoints, and sample tests. Environmental Economics and Natural Resource Management promotes environmental and economic literacy with policy-oriented, application-based content delivered in concise, accessible discussions. Through its engaging approach, the text brings the economic way of thinking into discussions of personal, community, corporate, and government activities that affect environmental assets and the quality of life.
The Global Life of Mines: Mining and Post-Mining in Comparative Perspective (Dislocations #37)
by Antonio Maria Pusceddu Filippo M. ZerilliResource extraction exists in diverse settings across the world and is carried out through different practices. The Global Life of Mines provides a comprehensive framework examining the spatial and temporal relationships between mining and postmining as interrelated and coexisting features within the global minescape. The book brings together scholars from various fields, such as anthropology, geography, sociology and political science, examining ethnographic case studies throughout the Americas (Bolivia, Brazil, Peru, USA), Africa (Democratic Republic of Congo) and Europe (Italy, Arctic Norway and Spain).
Spatial Analysis in Geology Using R (Chapman & Hall/CRC The R Series)
by Pedro M. NogueiraThe integration of geology with data science disciplines, such as spatial statistics, remote sensing, and geographic information systems (GIS), has given rise to a shift in many natural sciences schools, pushing the boundaries of knowledge and enabling new discoveries in geological processes and earth systems. Spatial analysis of geological data can be used to identify patterns and trends in data, to map spatial relationships, and to model spatial processes. R is a consolidated and yet growing statistical programming language with increasing value in spatial analysis often replacing, with advantage, GIS tools. By providing a comprehensive guide for geologists to harness the power of spatial analysis in R, Spatial Analysis in Geology Using R serves as a tool in addressing real-world problems, such as natural resource management, environmental conservation, and hazard prediction and mitigation.Features: Provides a practical and accessible overview of spatial analysis in geology using R Organised in three independent and complementary parts: Introduction to R, Spatial Analysis with R, and Spatial Statistics and Modelling Applied approach with many detailed examples and case studies using real geological data Presents a collection of R packages that are useful in many geological situations Does not assume any prior knowledge of R; all code are explained in detail Supplemented by a website with all data, code, and examples Spatial Analysis in Geology Using R will be useful to any geological researcher who has acquired basic spatial analysis skills, often using GIS, and is interested in deepening those skills through the use of R. It could be used as a reference by applied researchers and analysts in public, private, or third-sector industries. It could also be used to teach a course on the topic to graduate students or for self-study.
Spatial Analysis in Geology Using R (Chapman & Hall/CRC The R Series)
by Pedro M. NogueiraThe integration of geology with data science disciplines, such as spatial statistics, remote sensing, and geographic information systems (GIS), has given rise to a shift in many natural sciences schools, pushing the boundaries of knowledge and enabling new discoveries in geological processes and earth systems. Spatial analysis of geological data can be used to identify patterns and trends in data, to map spatial relationships, and to model spatial processes. R is a consolidated and yet growing statistical programming language with increasing value in spatial analysis often replacing, with advantage, GIS tools. By providing a comprehensive guide for geologists to harness the power of spatial analysis in R, Spatial Analysis in Geology Using R serves as a tool in addressing real-world problems, such as natural resource management, environmental conservation, and hazard prediction and mitigation.Features: Provides a practical and accessible overview of spatial analysis in geology using R Organised in three independent and complementary parts: Introduction to R, Spatial Analysis with R, and Spatial Statistics and Modelling Applied approach with many detailed examples and case studies using real geological data Presents a collection of R packages that are useful in many geological situations Does not assume any prior knowledge of R; all code are explained in detail Supplemented by a website with all data, code, and examples Spatial Analysis in Geology Using R will be useful to any geological researcher who has acquired basic spatial analysis skills, often using GIS, and is interested in deepening those skills through the use of R. It could be used as a reference by applied researchers and analysts in public, private, or third-sector industries. It could also be used to teach a course on the topic to graduate students or for self-study.
Proceedings of the 7th International Conference on Geotechnics, Civil Engineering and Structures, CIGOS 2024, 4-5 April, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam: Advances in Planning, Architecture and Construction for Sustainable Development (Lecture Notes in Civil Engineering #482)
by Cuong Ha-Minh Dat Vu Khoa Huynh Cao Hung Pham Hanh T. H. VuThis book includes peer-reviewed articles from the 7th International Conference on Geotechnics, Civil Engineering and Structures (CIGOS 2024) held on April 4-5 in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. It highlights recent advances in planning, architecture, and construction for sustainable development. The book features a compilation of articles presented at the conference, bringing together researchers, academics, and practitioners from around the world. The topics covered range from Planning, Architecture, and Industrial Design to Construction, Materials, Structures, and Digital Technologies, as well as Geoscience, Environment, and Energy, and Transportation, Infrastructure, Management, and Investment. The book emphasizes the importance of a multidisciplinary approach to sustainable development in order to address environmental, social, and economic challenges faced by societies worldwide. It provides insights into best practices and innovative approaches for achieving sustainabledevelopment goals, such as reducing the carbon footprint, enhancing energy efficiency, promoting the use of eco-friendly materials, and implementing sustainable construction techniques. Overall, this book offers valuable knowledge and advice to professionals, researchers, and policymakers engaged in sustainable development initiatives.
Hydraulics in Civil Engineering: A Course with Experiments and Open-Source-Codes
by Christoph RappOn the one hand, the book closes the gap between applied civil engineering hydraulics books and standard fluid mechanics works; on the other hand, it is designed as a course that can be applied modularly. The goal is to present the facts in an understandable and descriptive way and with experiments, software, and materials that are available anywhere.This is an open access book.
Energy Savings Calculations for Commercial Building Energy Efficiency Upgrades
by Anthony J. BuonicoreCode-compliant building materials and equipment will typically have a lower initial cost; however, the lifetime energy savings of the high efficiency equipment will often justify the upfront cost premium and result in a more cost-effective solution. Energy Savings Calculations for Commercial Building Energy Efficiency Upgrades assists energy professionals, contractors, building owners, and managers in developing energy savings estimates that can facilitate a quick assessment of the potential energy savings that might be realized when replacing existing building components with the highest efficiency equipment. It also provides algorithms to estimate greenhouse gas emission reductions that may be achieved by building energy efficiency upgrades and the impact these upgrades can have on building electrification-decarbonization projects. This book: Focuses on the development of energy savings estimates based upon a whole building’s energy consumption and the energy consumption associated with building end-uses such as space heating, space cooling, ventilation, lighting, and so forth. Includes over 70 illustrative examples using algorithms to demonstrate how energy savings and greenhouse gas emission reductions may be estimated utilizing different strategies and equipment.
Energy Savings Calculations for Commercial Building Energy Efficiency Upgrades
by Anthony J. BuonicoreCode-compliant building materials and equipment will typically have a lower initial cost; however, the lifetime energy savings of the high efficiency equipment will often justify the upfront cost premium and result in a more cost-effective solution. Energy Savings Calculations for Commercial Building Energy Efficiency Upgrades assists energy professionals, contractors, building owners, and managers in developing energy savings estimates that can facilitate a quick assessment of the potential energy savings that might be realized when replacing existing building components with the highest efficiency equipment. It also provides algorithms to estimate greenhouse gas emission reductions that may be achieved by building energy efficiency upgrades and the impact these upgrades can have on building electrification-decarbonization projects. This book: Focuses on the development of energy savings estimates based upon a whole building’s energy consumption and the energy consumption associated with building end-uses such as space heating, space cooling, ventilation, lighting, and so forth. Includes over 70 illustrative examples using algorithms to demonstrate how energy savings and greenhouse gas emission reductions may be estimated utilizing different strategies and equipment.
Geotechnical Aspects of Underground Construction in Soft Ground
by Wan-Huan ZhouGEOTECHNICAL ASPECTS OF UNDERGROUND CONSTRUCTION IN SOFT GROUND comprises a collection of 68 contributions, including 55 technical papers, 6 General Reports, 5 Keynotes, 1 Fujita Lecture, and 1 Bright Spark Lecture presented at the 11th International Symposium on Geotechnical Aspects of Underground Construction in Soft Ground (IS-Macau 2024), held in Macao SAR, China, on June 14-17, 2024.The symposium is the latest in a series that began in New Delhi in 1994 and was followed by symposia in London (1996), Tokyo (1999), Toulouse (2002), Amsterdam (2005), Shanghai (2008), Rome (2011), Seoul (2014), Sao Paulo (2017), and Cambridge (2022). This symposium was organized by the University of Macau, Civil Engineering Laboratory of Macau, and the Macau Association for Geotechnical Engineering under the auspices of TC204 of ISSMGE. The book includes contributions from more than 15 countries on the research, design, and construction of underground works in soft ground. The theme of IS-Macau 2024 is “Tunnelling and Underground Construction for Smart Cities”. The contributions cover the following topics: Basic properties and soil improvement in soft ground Constitutive and Numerical Modelling Innovative analysis and design in tunneling and underground construction Smart monitoring and visualization technologies for tunneling and underground construction Sustainability and resilience of underground infrastructure Field case studies Similar to previous editions, GEOTECHNICAL ASPECTS OF UNDERGROUND CONSTRUCTION IN SOFT GROUND serves as an invaluable resource offering insights into the contemporary methods of analyzing, designing, and executing tunnels and deep excavations within soft ground environments, crucial for the advancement of smart cities. The book is particularly aimed at academics and professionals interested in geotechnical and underground engineering.
Geotechnical Aspects of Underground Construction in Soft Ground
GEOTECHNICAL ASPECTS OF UNDERGROUND CONSTRUCTION IN SOFT GROUND comprises a collection of 68 contributions, including 55 technical papers, 6 General Reports, 5 Keynotes, 1 Fujita Lecture, and 1 Bright Spark Lecture presented at the 11th International Symposium on Geotechnical Aspects of Underground Construction in Soft Ground (IS-Macau 2024), held in Macao SAR, China, on June 14-17, 2024.The symposium is the latest in a series that began in New Delhi in 1994 and was followed by symposia in London (1996), Tokyo (1999), Toulouse (2002), Amsterdam (2005), Shanghai (2008), Rome (2011), Seoul (2014), Sao Paulo (2017), and Cambridge (2022). This symposium was organized by the University of Macau, Civil Engineering Laboratory of Macau, and the Macau Association for Geotechnical Engineering under the auspices of TC204 of ISSMGE. The book includes contributions from more than 15 countries on the research, design, and construction of underground works in soft ground. The theme of IS-Macau 2024 is “Tunnelling and Underground Construction for Smart Cities”. The contributions cover the following topics: Basic properties and soil improvement in soft ground Constitutive and Numerical Modelling Innovative analysis and design in tunneling and underground construction Smart monitoring and visualization technologies for tunneling and underground construction Sustainability and resilience of underground infrastructure Field case studies Similar to previous editions, GEOTECHNICAL ASPECTS OF UNDERGROUND CONSTRUCTION IN SOFT GROUND serves as an invaluable resource offering insights into the contemporary methods of analyzing, designing, and executing tunnels and deep excavations within soft ground environments, crucial for the advancement of smart cities. The book is particularly aimed at academics and professionals interested in geotechnical and underground engineering.
Climate Change and Water Scarcity in the Middle East: A Transitional Approach (Earthscan Studies in Water Resource Management)
by Mariëlle Snel Nikolas Sorensen Reed PowerAs water's significance as a geopolitical resource is poised to surpass that of oil, this book explores the adaptation of Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) services in the Middle East to climate change challenges, leveraging the Humanitarian-Development-Peace nexus for a sustainable transition and resilient solutions. Delving into the humanitarian and development sectors across the region, the authors advocate for a transformative approach towards more innovative, integrated, and localized programming. It draws a parallel between the increasing global shift in humanitarian needs, as starkly revealed by the COVID-19 pandemic, and the ongoing devastation wrought by climate change, particularly through water-related crises such as flooding, drought, famine, and conflict. The authors stress the urgent need for adaptive and sustainable strategies that can swiftly respond to evolving climate challenges. This book argues that there is currently a window of opportunity for WASH practitioners to develop broader, multi-sectoral experiences to meet these challenges. Drawing on discussions with humanitarian and development practitioners and new contemporary case studies, this book analyzes the financial, institutional, environmental, technical, and socio-cultural considerations for creating sustainable WASH services in transition. The narrative emphasizes the urgent need for a Humanitarian-Development-Peace nexus approach, advocating for multisectoral collaboration and localization as vital to addressing protracted crises and climate change's escalating threats. It calls for a strategic shift towards organizations that merge immediate humanitarian aid with sustainable development, enhancing local capacities for effective, enduring solutions. The authors conclude by outlining practical actions for humanitarian and development organizations at the local, national, regional, and global levels to support effective integrated and transitional WASH programming in the future.
Climate Change and Water Scarcity in the Middle East: A Transitional Approach (Earthscan Studies in Water Resource Management)
by Mariëlle Snel Nikolas Sorensen Reed PowerAs water's significance as a geopolitical resource is poised to surpass that of oil, this book explores the adaptation of Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) services in the Middle East to climate change challenges, leveraging the Humanitarian-Development-Peace nexus for a sustainable transition and resilient solutions. Delving into the humanitarian and development sectors across the region, the authors advocate for a transformative approach towards more innovative, integrated, and localized programming. It draws a parallel between the increasing global shift in humanitarian needs, as starkly revealed by the COVID-19 pandemic, and the ongoing devastation wrought by climate change, particularly through water-related crises such as flooding, drought, famine, and conflict. The authors stress the urgent need for adaptive and sustainable strategies that can swiftly respond to evolving climate challenges. This book argues that there is currently a window of opportunity for WASH practitioners to develop broader, multi-sectoral experiences to meet these challenges. Drawing on discussions with humanitarian and development practitioners and new contemporary case studies, this book analyzes the financial, institutional, environmental, technical, and socio-cultural considerations for creating sustainable WASH services in transition. The narrative emphasizes the urgent need for a Humanitarian-Development-Peace nexus approach, advocating for multisectoral collaboration and localization as vital to addressing protracted crises and climate change's escalating threats. It calls for a strategic shift towards organizations that merge immediate humanitarian aid with sustainable development, enhancing local capacities for effective, enduring solutions. The authors conclude by outlining practical actions for humanitarian and development organizations at the local, national, regional, and global levels to support effective integrated and transitional WASH programming in the future.
Random Walks and Physical Fields (Probability Theory and Stochastic Modelling #106)
by Yves Le JanThis book presents fundamental relations between random walks on graphs and field theories of mathematical physics. Such relations have been explored for several decades and remain a rapidly developing research area in probability theory.The main objects of study include Markov loops, spanning forests, random holonomies, and covers, and the purpose of the book is to investigate their relations to Bose fields, Fermi fields, and gauge fields. The book starts with a review of some basic notions of Markovian potential theory in the simple context of a finite or countable graph, followed by several chapters dedicated to the study of loop ensembles and related statistical physical models. Then, spanning trees and Fermi fields are introduced and related to loop ensembles. Next, the focus turns to topological properties of loops and graphs, with the introduction of connections on a graph, loop holonomies, and Yang–Mills measure. Among the main results presented is an intertwining relation between merge-and-split generators on loop ensembles and Casimir operators on connections, and the key reflection positivity property for the fields under consideration.Aimed at researchers and graduate students in probability and mathematical physics, this concise monograph is essentially self-contained. Familiarity with basic notions of probability, Poisson point processes, and discrete Markov chains are assumed of the reader.
Genomics of Antibiotic Resistant Bacteria in Industrial Waste Water Treatment
by Maulin P. ShahThis book discusses the key problems and solutions with various applicable approaches to combat antibiotic-resistant genes in industrial waste water. Several genes are selected within the chapters to illustrate the past and future roles of molecular ecophysiology and genomics in the development of wastewater microbiology as an important subdiscipline of microbial ecology. As we have very limited knowledge of composition, dynamics and stability of microbial communities, various processes in wastewater treatment have been generally considered to be "black box." In recent years, with the development of several new high throughput sequencing platforms, metagenome sequencing strategies and bioinformatics toolboxes, the analysis of the genome of complex communities has become much more accessible and means easier.The opening of the biological wastewater treatment “black box” is not the unpleasant experience it was before. The viable, but not cultural, ceases tobe the inconsequential, uncharacterizable enigma that existed today. Metagenomics leads the way for more specific studies in related fields. Finally, genomic studies of wastewater treatment microbes, in addition to their biotechnological applications, are also an excellent testing ground for variety of other ecological and environmental burns questions. Wastewater treatment plants are considered hotspots for the environmental dissemination of antimicrobial-resistant determinants. Comparative genomics of antibiotic resistant genes isolated from conventional activated sludge and biological aerated filter wastewater treatment plants is discussed.
Livable Cities: Urban Heat Islands Mitigation for Climate Change Adaptation Through Urban Greening
by Antonella Trombadore Mohsen Aboulnaga Mona Mostafa Ahmed AbouaianaLivable Cities: Urban Heat Islands Mitigation for Climate Change Adaptation Through Urban Greening elucidates on livability in urban areas, providing readers with definitions and indicators of what makes a city livable. It comprehensively introduces the urban heat island effect (UHIE) and offers strategies for mitigating high surface temperatures in metropolitan areas and adapting to climate change (CC). The coverage highlights the linkage between UHIE and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the socio-economic impacts of urban heat islands (UHIs), their effect on livability for citizens, and the costs and benefits of mitigating UHI. In addition, it encompasses background information about the problems and challenges that megacities face in the 21st century, followed by the cooling benefits that can be achieved from the different types of urban green coverage (UGC), whether conventional or innovative. The book presents case studies on six cities that have successfully applied UGC: Chicago (United States), Curitiba (Brazil), Stuttgart (Germany), Tokyo (Asia), Melbourne (Australia), and Johannesburg (South Africa). Additional case studies illustrate UHIE mapping in greater Cairo, Egypt, and Rome, Italy, to determine hot spot areas that need interventions and prioritization of UGC. Highlights also include the role of blue and green infrastructures in creating livable cities in the post-COVID-19 world, trends of bi-correlation between urban green spaces (UGSs), UGC, and COVID-19, and global patterns of UGSs to shape better healthy, sustainable, and resilient cities. Explains urban heat islands, their causes, and strategies for climate change adaptation to create livable cities; Highlights the role of urban green coverage in post-COVID-19 regulations in shaping more livable, sustainable, and resilient cities.Explores ways to reduce the urban heat island effect by exploiting urban greening to mitigate high temperatures in large cities like Cairo and Rome.