An introduction to the theory of cluster sets, a branch of topological analysis.

Scientific Foundations and Practical Applications of Periodization is the first book of its kind designed to optimize sport performance by integrating classic and modern periodization theories with recovery methodologies, nutritional interventions, and athlete monitoring guidelines.

Authored by the National Strength and Conditioning Association, Developing Power is the definitive resource for developing athletic power. With exercises and drills, assessments, analysis, and programming, this book will elevate power and performance in all sports.

Becoming an effective strength and conditioning practitioner requires the development of a professional skills set and a thorough understanding of the scientific basis of best practice. Aimed at advanced students and novice-to-expert practitioners, in this book the authors explore the latest scientific evidence and apply it to exercise selection and programming choices across the full range of areas in strength and conditioning, from strength and power, speed and agility, to aerobic conditioning. Since the first edition of this text was written extensive research has expanded the supporting evidence base that provides the theoretical foundation for each chapter. In addition, some areas that were previously under-researched have now been expanded and some key concepts have been further challenged. Each chapter is written by experts with experience in a wide variety of sports, including both applied and research experience, ensuring this concise but sophisticated textbook is the perfect bridge from introductory study to effective professional practice. While advanced concepts are explored within the book, the coach must not forget that consistency in the application of the basic principles of strength and conditioning is the foundation of athletic development. Advanced Strength and Conditioning: An Evidence- based Approach is a valuable resource for all advanced students and practitioners of strength and conditioning and fitness training.

Written by the National Strength and Conditioning Association, Developing Power, Second Edition, is the authoritative resource for increasing athletic power. Coverage includes research-based recommendations for power development, assessment protocols, step-by-step instructions for 84 exercises, and sample training programs for 19 sports.

The present book includes a set of selected extended papers from the 11th International Conference on Informatics in Control, Automation and Robotics (ICINCO 2014), held in Vienna, Austria, from 1 to 3 September 2014. The conference brought together researchers, engineers and practitioners interested in the application of informatics to Control, Automation and Robotics. Four simultaneous tracks will be held, covering Intelligent Control Systems, Optimization, Robotics, Automation, Signal Processing, Sensors, Systems Modelling and Control, and Industrial Engineering, Production and Management. Informatics applications are pervasive in many areas of Control, Automation and Robotics. ICINCO 2014 received 301 submissions, from 49 countries, in all continents. After a double blind paper review performed by the Program Committee, 20% were accepted as full papers and thus selected for oral presentation. Additional papers were accepted as short papers and posters. A further selection was made after the Conference, based also on the assessment of presentation quality and audience interest, so that this book includes the extended and revised versions of the very best papers of ICINCO 2014. Commitment to high quality standards is a major concern of ICINCO that will be maintained in the next editions, considering not only the stringent paper acceptance ratios but also the quality of the program committee, keynote lectures, participation level and logistics.