Differential-algebraic equations (DAEs) provide an essential tool for system modeling and analysis within different fields of applied sciences and engineering. This book addresses modeling issues and analytical properties of DAEs, together with some applications in electrical circuit theory.Beginning with elementary aspects, the author succeeds in providing a self-contained and comprehensive presentation of several advanced topics in DAE theory, such as the full characterization of linear time-varying equations via projector methods or the geometric reduction of nonlinear systems. Recent results on singularities are extensively discussed. The book also addresses in detail differential-algebraic models of electrical and electronic circuits, including index characterizations and qualitative aspects of circuit dynamics. In particular, the reader will find a thorough discussion of the state/semistate dichotomy in circuit modeling. The state formulation problem, which has attracted much attention in the engineering literature, is cleverly tackled here as a reduction problem on semistate models.

The development of a reliable, continuously tunable laser has produced a strong revival in atomic and molecular spectroscopy, allowing the more precise measurement of spectral wavelengths of transitions, the performance of various sorts of Doppler-free high-resolution spectroscopy and the collection of spectral information with high sensitivity from a small ensemble of particles. This review discusses the possibilities of the method and its inherent problems. Tunable lasers must be made easier to operate, more stable and less expensive. It is suggested that the semiconductor diode laser could be the solution to these problems, if it is properly developed.

Proceedings of a Seminar in the CEC Programme of Research on Plant Productivity, held in Gembloux, Belgium, October 1-3, 1986

One of the aims of this book is to explain in a basic manner the seemingly difficult issues of mathematical structure using some specific examples as a guide. In each of the cases considered, a comprehensible physical problem is approached, to which the corresponding mathematical scheme is applied, its usefulness being duly demonstrated. The authors try to fill the gap that always exists between the physics of quantum field theories and the mathematical methods best suited for its formulation, which are increasingly demanding on the mathematical ability of the physicist. Contents: Survey of Path Integral Quantization and Regularization Techniques; The Zeta-Function Regularization Method; Generalized Spectra and Spectral Functions on Non-Commutative Spaces; Spectral Functions of Laplace Operator on Locally Symmetric Spaces; Spinor Fields; Field Fluctuations and Related Variances; The Multiplicative Anomaly; Applications of the Multiplicative Anomaly; The Casimir Effect. Readership: Mathematical and high energy physicists.

Many advances have been made since the publication of Drug Testing in Hair. The mid-1990s witnessed the progress in cannabis detection while the late 1990s focused on benzodiazepines detection and the applications in doping control. In more recent years, toxicologists centered on the detection in hair of a single exposure and the related applicatio

Food Chemical Risk Analysis provides an introduction to the sciences of food chemistry and risk analysis and demonstrates how the potential hazards associated with food chemicals can be assessed and managed. Food scares are never far from the news and particular attention is therefore focused on the consumer perception of risk and risk communication. Leading international experts provide unique insights in the future of food chemical risk analysis. Chapters on alternatives to animal testing show how emerging methods offer the prospect of a more rational human-based approach to toxicity testing. Discussions about relative risks and protective factors highlight the possibility that risks from food can be over-estimated and approaches to avoid such risks are proposed. The science of risk management is presented as more than just a method for translating science into policy by demonstrating how social, psychological, economic ethical and other factors can, and should be taken into account. The book makes it clear that if risk communication is to be effective, an integrated approach to risk analysis must be adopted.