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Open microfluidics or open-surface is becoming fundamental in scientific domains such as biotechnology, biology and space. First, such systems and devices based on open microfluidics make use of capillary forces to move fluids, without any need for external energy. Second, the “openness” of the flow facilitates the accessibility to the liquid in biotechnology and biology, and reduces the weight in space applications. This book has been conceived to give the reader the fundamental basis of open microfluidics. It covers successively The theory of spontaneous capillary flow, with the general conditions for spontaneous capillary flow, and the dynamic aspects of such flows. The formation of capillary filaments which are associated to small contact angles and sharp grooves. The study of capillary flow in open rectangular, pseudo-rectangular and trapezoidal open microchannels. The dynamics of open capillary flows in grooves with a focus on capillary resistors. The case of very viscous liquids is analyzed. An analysis of suspended capillary flows: such flows move in suspended channels devoid of top cover and bottom plate. Their accessibility is reinforced, and such systems are becoming fundamental in biology. An analysis of “rails” microfluidics, which are flows that move in channels devoid of side walls. This geometry has the advantage to be compatible with capillary networks, which are now of great interest in biotechnology, for molecular detection for example. Paper-based microfluidics where liquids wick flat paper matrix. Applications concern bioassays such as point of care devices (POC). Thread-based microfluidics is a new domain of investigation. It is seeing presently many new developments in the domain of separation and filtration, and opens the way to smart bandages and tissue engineering. The book is intended to cover the theoretical aspects of open microfluidics, experimental approaches, and examples of application.

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A much-needed overview of the synthesis of chiral Brønsted acids and their applications in various organic transformations. The internationally recognized and highly respected expert authors summarize the most significant advances in this new and dynamically progressing field, with a special emphasis on BINOL-derived phosphoric acids. They also describe other catalysts, such as C-H, TADDOL-derived Brønsted, and sulfonic acids. For easy navigation, the chapters are organized in the first instance according to reactive intermediate and then sub-divided by reaction type. An appendix with selected experimental details for benign and straight-forward procedures rounds of the book, making this the number-one information source for organic chemists in academia and industry.

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This book explores the relationships between knowledge management (KM) processes and innovation management. The geographical extension of markets and intensification of competition have led firms to experiment with novel approaches to innovation. New organizational forms emerged in which firms collaborate with various stakeholders to create, absorb, integrate and protect knowledge. This book explores how knowledge management processes evolve with firms’ implementation of interactive, collaborative and open innovation models and it identifies the various knowledge types and processes involved throughout the different phases of the innovation process. The authors provide operational typologies for understanding innovative firms’ capabilities and knowledge management practices and also discuss the main properties of four models of interactive innovation, namely open innovation, user-centric innovation, community-based innovation and crowdsourcing.

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Filling the need for a solid textbook, this short primer in cluster science is ideal for a one-semester lecture for advanced undergraduate students. It is based on a series of lectures given by the well-established and recognized authors for the past ten years. The book covers both the basics of the domain as well as up-to-date developments. It can be divided roughly into two parts. The first three chapters introduce basic concepts of cluster science. Chapter 1 provides a general introduction, complemented by chapter 2 on experimental and chapter 3 on theoretical aspects. The second half of the book is devoted to a systematic presentation of free cluster properties, and to a thorough discussion of the impact of clusters in other domains of science. These explicitly worked-out links between cluster physics and other research areas are unique both in terms of fundamental aspects and of applications, and cannot be found elsewhere in the literature. Also suitable for researchers outside of the field looking for an introduction to cluster science.

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An important new guide to flexible empirically supported practice in CBT. There is a growing movement across health care to adopt empirically supported practice. Treatments for Psychological Problems and Syndromes makes an important contribution by offering a comprehensive guide for adopting a more flexible approach to cognitive behavioural therapy. Edited by three recognized experts in the field of CBT, the text has three key aims: firstly to identify components of models describing specific psychological conditions that are empirically supported, poorly supported or unsupported; secondly to propose theoretical rationales for sequencing of interventions, and criteria for moving from one treatment procedure to the next; and thirdly to identify mechanisms of psychological syndromes that may interfere with established protocols in order to promote more informed treatment and improve outcomes. Written in clear and concise terms, this is an authoritative guide that will be relevant and useful to a wide range of readers from beginning clinicians to experienced practitioners.

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Plant Genes, Genomes and Genetics provides a comprehensive treatment of all aspects of plant gene expression. Unique in explaining the subject from a plant perspective, it highlights the importance of key processes, many first discovered in plants, that impact how plants develop and interact with the environment. This text covers topics ranging from plant genome structure and the key control points in how genes are expressed, to the mechanisms by which proteins are generated and how their activities are controlled and altered by posttranslational modifications. Written by a highly respected team of specialists in plant biology with extensive experience in teaching at undergraduate and graduate level, this textbook will be invaluable for students and instructors alike. Plant Genes, Genomes and Genetics also includes: • specific examples that highlight when and how plants operate differently from other organisms; • special sections that provide in-depth discussions of particular issues; • end-of-chapter problems to help students recapitulate the main concepts; • rich, full-colour illustrations and diagrams clearly showing important processes in plant gene expression; • a companion website with PowerPoint slides, downloadable figures, and answers to the questions posed in the book. Aimed at upper level undergraduates and graduate students in plant biology, this text is equally suited for advanced agronomy and crop science students inclined to understand molecular aspects of organismal phenomena. It is also an invaluable starting point for professionals entering the field of plant biology.

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In-depth agility evaluation for a more efficient response to change Assessing Organization Agility provides a clear, concise roadmap to improved implementation of change. Written by two organizational researchers at USC's Center for Effective Organizations and a management consultant with Strategy& (formerly Booz & Company), this book provides the means for assessing an organization's agility and formulating an improvement plan. Beginning with a discussion about the meaning of «agility,» the authors enumerate the various contributing factors that affect how quickly an organization responds to change, and the efficiency of the response. An agility survey shows readers how their own organization compares in terms of both perception and implementation, allowing the formulation of an «Agility Profile» that can point out strengths while highlighting areas in need of improvement. Case studies demonstrate the real-world impact of effective agility strategy, and example scenarios illustrate improved responses by each agility «type.» Eighty percent of large-scale organizations fail to meet their objectives, and poor agility is often to blame. Organizations respond to changes in the marketplace, economy, and society by implementing changes in their processes and procedures, but planning and implementing change takes time. During that time, the context of the initial decision frequently evolves, leaving the organization one step behind. Agility is the ability to quickly implement change without sacrificing strategy, and Assessing Organization Agility helps readers to: Discover the organizational/operational factors that contribute to agility Assess current agility from all perspectives, highlighting areas for improvement Implement processes and procedures that streamline change events Maintain forward trajectory with adjustments to strategy and implementation The current pace of technical, competitive, and environmental change is faster than ever before, and response requirements are far more complex and sophisticated. In this turbulent environment, agility can mean the difference between success and stagnation. Assessing Organization Agility asks the questions and provides the answers that lead to better organizational reflex and more effective response.

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Pediatric Urology: Surgical Complications and Management, 2nd edition focuses 100% on the most common problems that can occur during pediatric urologic surgery, and how best to resolve them, ensuring the best possible outcome for the patient. As well as being thoroughly revised with the latest in management guidelines, brand new to this edition are a host of clinical case studies highlighting real-life problems during urologic surgery and the tips and tricks used by the surgeon to resolve issues faced. These will be invaluable for urology trainees learning their trade as well as for those preparing for Board or other specialty exams. Chapters will include problem solving sections as well as key take-home points. In addition, high-quality teaching videos showing urologic surgery in action will be included via the companion website – again proving an invaluable tool for all those seeking to improve their surgical skills. Edited by an experienced and international trio of urologists, they will recruit the world’s leading experts, resulting in a uniform, high-quality and evidence-based approach to the topic. Pediatric Urology: Surgical Complications and Management, 2nd edition is essential reading for all urologists, especially those specialising in pediatric urology and urologic surgery, as well as general surgeons.

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Cloud Computing: Business Trends and Technologies provides a broad introduction to Cloud computing technologies and their applications to IT and telecommunications businesses (i.e., the network function virtualization, NFV). To this end, the book is expected to serve as a textbook in a graduate course on Cloud computing. The book examines the business cases and then concentrates on the technologies necessary for supporting them. In the process, the book addresses the principles of – as well as the known problems with – the underlying technologies, such as virtualization, data communications, network and operations management, security and identity management. It introduces, through open-source case studies (based on OpenStack), an extensive illustration of lifecycle management. The book also looks at the existing and emerging standards, demonstrating their respective relation to each topic. Overall, this is an authoritative textbook on this emerging and still-developing discipline, which •Guides the reader through basic concepts, to current practices, to state-of-the-art applications. •Considers technical standards bodies involved in Cloud computing standardization. •Is written by innovation experts in operating systems and data communications, each with over 20 years’ experience in business, research, and teaching.

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A guide to the implementation and interpretation of Quantile Regression models This book explores the theory and numerous applications of quantile regression, offering empirical data analysis as well as the software tools to implement the methods. The main focus of this book is to provide the reader with a comprehensive description of the main issues concerning quantile regression; these include basic modeling, geometrical interpretation, estimation and inference for quantile regression, as well as issues on validity of the model, diagnostic tools. Each methodological aspect is explored and followed by applications using real data. Quantile Regression: Presents a complete treatment of quantile regression methods, including, estimation, inference issues and application of methods. Delivers a balance between methodolgy and application Offers an overview of the recent developments in the quantile regression framework and why to use quantile regression in a variety of areas such as economics, finance and computing. Features a supporting website (www.wiley.com/go/quantile_regression) hosting datasets along with R, Stata and SAS software code. Researchers and PhD students in the field of statistics, economics, econometrics, social and environmental science and chemistry will benefit from this book.

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