Book Description

This work shows that information is at the root of all fields of science. These fields may be generated by use of the concept of "extreme physical information" or EPI. The book greatly expands the material in Physics from Fisher Information to include many other areas in science. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Clarifying physics
"Physics from Fisher Information" is a unification, indeed. The author derives the physical laws for such different fields as quantum mechanics, classical electromechanics, general relativity and statistical mechanics from the single powerful principle of Extreme Physical Information (EPI). This principle probably goes deeper than merely a mathematical similarity between the laws, which as such already helps to grasp the full picture of physics. Personally, I think it's a pity this clarifying book was not written yet when I was a student of physics. To miss this book, is to miss something essential.

Well-written and important, but keep math texts handy
This is a compilation of Roy Frieden's work in major physics journals over the last decade deriving the basic laws of physics - relativistic quantum mechanics, electromagnetism, gravitation, statistical thermodynamics - from a quantity (used by mathematical statisticians and by hardly anyone else) called Fisher Information. He derives the Klein-Gordon equation, Schroedinger wave equations, Maxwell's equations, DeWitt-Wheeler law of quantum gravity, and various statistical thermodynamics laws. Whew. Basically, while folks have focused in the past on Shannon information and entropy (all global measures), Frieden's worked on Fisher information which is a local measure (e.g. based on a derivative). Optimization of functionals of Fisher information gives differential equations as results, which become laws of physics. Cute.

Anyone with a Bachelors in Engineering would have been exposed to enough physics to understand what Frieden has done. The mathematics is at senior-level math/grad level engineering level. Well-written and not at all cryptic, Frieden goes out of his way to motivate his arguments. In fact, Roy spends 100 pages in preparation and discussion before he even gets to his first real derivation.

Operations Researchers (like me), Applied Mathematicians, EE Control Theory types and Statisticians will find the mathematics pretty comfortable...even if we don't understand all the physics implications. Philosophical types with strong math backgrounds can profitably wade through the text just to get a flavor of his arguments.

Cambridge *really* wanted to publish this textbook. They even included Frieden's umm..errr...interesting pencil sketches of himself and other luminaries. Check out the New Scientist archives for an article in January 1999 on Frieden's work.

One warning. This is *not* light reading. Those looking for the "Tao of Fisher Information" will have to wait for some of us to write a pop sci version of his work. If you want to get a feeling for Frieden's work before you buy the book, read the articles "Estimation of distribution laws, and physical laws, by a principle of extremized physical information", Physica A, 198 (1993) 262-338 or "Lagrangians of physics and the game of Fisher-information transfer", Phys Rev E, 52(3), Sept 1995, 2274-2286.

Fisher knowledge is the only knowledge
With my advanced copy of this wonderful book, I can truly say that all physics ends here. I foresee every field of science laying down their texts and proclaiming this one as the end all be all. A must read for anyone. ... Read more

Book Description

This valuable book-length treatment of the field offers coverage of estimation for situations where the model variables are observed subject to measurement error. Included are regression models with errors in the variables, latent variable models, and factor models. Brings together results from several areas of application, including discussion of recent results for nonlinear models and for models with unequal variances. Also explained are the estimation of true values for the fixed model, prediction of true values under the random model, model checks, and the analysis of residuals. Procedures are illustrated with data drawn from nearly twenty real-data sets. ... Read more

Book Description

Nonlinear measurement data arise in a wide variety of biological and biomedical applications, such as longitudinal clinical trials, studies of drug kinetics and growth, and the analysis of assay and laboratory data.Nonlinear Models for Repeated Measurement Data provides the first unified development of methods and models for data of this type, with a detailed treatment of inference for the nonlinear mixed effects and its extensions.A particular strength of the book is the inclusion of several detailed case studies from the areas of population pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics, immunoassay and bioassay development and the analysis of growth curves. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

great coverage of theory and applications
Analysis of repeated measurement data is commonplace in clinical trials and there is a great body of literature and books on the repeated measures analysis using linear models. The many fine texts on repeated measure linear models are often found with the term longitudinal data analysis because the repeated measurements are given over time. As Davidian and Giltinan point out htere is a need for nonlinear models in the case of pharmacokinetics trials. The theory is new and is presented here in a text for the first time. The authors provide many real applications from their experience. They present a good mix of theory and applications. Thorough references to the literature are given. Even though the development is new the authors do treat the computational aspects. Software implementation for Bayesian Hierarchical models is also mentioned. SAS macros that have been developed are also covered. The methodology is developed in the first eight chapters with applications and case studies in Chapters 9-11. Chapter 12 provides open problems to interest researchers. It contains useful information for practitioners but requires mathematical sophistication. ... Read more

Book Description

This market leader offers the broadest range of experimental measurement techniques available for mechanical and general engineering applications. Offering clear descriptions of the general behavior of different measurement techniques, such as pressure, flow, and temperature, the text emphasizes the use of uncertainty analysis and statistical data analysis in estimating the accuracy of measurements. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

good introduction to measurement
Much of the engineering curriculum is devoted to analytical techniques for solving particular problems, often derived mathematically from first principles. However, without grounding results within the physical realm, solutions may neglect factors that do not neatly fit into the assumptions used. Thus, measurement of phenomena are needed. But what constitutes a valid measurement? Holman provides an excellent introduction to this area in _Experimental_Methods_for_Engineers_, often an otherwise neglected field of study. Few parameters can be measured directly, and those that can must be compared to a standard that is ubiquitously available and repeatable. So Holman begins with standards and units. Analysis of measured data covers sources of error and uncertainty -- without these, the measurement cannot be used with confidence for the application intended.

Subsequently, Holman introduces sensors in separate chapters for discrete physical phenomena. The first of these includes electrical sensors using known physical laws governing electro-magnetism. The next chapters cover displacement, pressure and fluid flowrate, followed by temperature and heat flux. Then forces, vibration, nuclear radiation and chemical traces are covered. _Experimental_Methods_ concludes with data acquisition and report writing descriptions. The treatment in each chapter is geared to the level of a competent engineering student. Although replete with equations, the terms are explained (unlike so many textbooks) and associated with quantified examples. Holman presents a useful overview of the instrumentation types and their limitations, together with how quantities may be derived from the values measured. A valuable addition in any technical library.

Complete Recipe for Engineering Experimentation
I have reviewed several books in engineering experimentation to adopt one of them to my course. Among them, this book is most complete and provides lots of useful information nicely organized. One of the strengthes this book provides is the "recipe" for various enigneering experiments with excellent summary. ... Read more

Book Description

The Measurement Instrumentation and Sensors Handbook describes the use of instruments and techniques for practical measurements required in engineering, physics, chemistry, and the life sciences.The book examines:oSensorsoHardwareoSoftwareoTechniquesoInformation processing systemsoAutomatic data acquisitionoReduction and analysis as well as their incorporation for control purposesOrganized according to the measurement problem, each section addresses the different ways of making a measurement for a given variable. Chapters present information on three levels:oBasic information without equations and a description of the subject that can be understood by the newcomeroDetailed text and mathematical treatment essential fordiscovering applications and solving problems outside one's field of specialtyoAdvanced applications of the subject, evaluative opinions, and areas for future studyThe Measurement, Instrumentation and Sensors Handbook provides a graded level of difficulty from start to finish, serving the reference needs of the broadest group of readers. Edited by one of the more noted instrumentation experts in the world, the book contains nearly 150 contributions, covering all aspects on the design and implementation of various instrumentation. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Magnificent collection of material
This book is one of the best book covering measurement and sensors. The book cover almost any sensor you think of, describe it function (the background physics) and then explain how it work with some application in software. This book must have for any one working with sensor (engineers, physicist...). the book start explaining it material assuming no prior knowledge for the reader which make it much easier and easy to follow up, start from simple point to explain and then get more complicated with mathematics applied for that particular sensor. I have a degree on physics and I believe this book is a good reference even in physics and I enjoy this book so much. It is a lot fun to read for professional or even for any reader. Any time I was searching for more information about specific sensor this book never turn me down. In short it's on of the greatest book I bought and I don't mind paying it's price because it worth every penny. ... Read more

Book Description

Wheeler and Ganji introduce many topics that engineers need to master in order to plan, design and document a successful experiment or measurement system. The volume offers thorough discussions of topics often ignored or merely touched upon by other books, including modern computerized data acquisition systems, electrical output measuring devices, and in-depth coverage of experimental uncertainty analysis.The authors detail general characteristics of measurement systems, measurement systems with electrical signals, computerized data acquisition systems, discrete sampling and analysis of time-varying signals, statistical analysis of experimental data, experimental uncertainty analysis, measurement of solid-mechanical quantities, measurement of pressure, temperature and humidity, measurement of fluid flow rate, fluid velocity, fluid level, and combustion pollutants, dynamic behavior of measurement systems, as well as guidelines for planning and documenting experiments.For practicing engineers of all kinds. ... Read more

Book Description

Radiation Dosimetry Instrumentation and Methods provides the basic theory and practical methods of radiation dosimetry. The book begins with a review of the theoretical basis of radiation dosimetry and the system of units used in the measurements. The remainder of the book presents dosimetry methods widely used in nuclear medicine, as well as new techniques and methods that are applied only in specific circumstances. The theoretical basis on which each method is based and the practical and technical details of each dosimeter's design and construction are presented.Dosimetry methods are compared and correction factors and adjustments offered in the final chapter. The methods discussed in this fascinating text include ionization chambers, thermoluminescence dosimeters (TLD), photographic emulsion, chemical dosimetry and calorimetry, lyoluminescence dosimetry, solid state detectors, tritium monitoring, and neutron dosimetry. Radiation Dosimetry Instrumentation and Methodsis an excellent book for physicians in nuclear medicine, hospital radioisotope departments, radiobiologists, radiochemists, and users of nuclear radiation for scientific, technical and energy production purposes. ... Read more

Book Description

Pneumatic, hydraulic and allied instrumentation schemes have given way to electronic schemes in recent years thanks to the rapid strides in electronics and allied areas. Principles, design and applications of such state-of-the-art instrumentation schemes form the subject matter of this book. Through representative examples, the basic building blocks of instrumentation schemes are identified and each of these building blocks discussed in terms of its design and interface characteristics. The common generic schemes synthesized with such building blocks are dealt with subsequently. This forms the scope of Part I. The focus in Part II is on application. Displacement and allied instrumentation, force and allied instrumentation and process instrumentation in terms of temperature, flow, pressure level and other common process variables are dealt with separately and exhaustively. Despite the diversity in the sensor principles and characteristics and the variety in the applications and their environments, it is possible judiciously to carve out broad areas of application for each type of sensor and the instrumentation built around it. The last chapter categorises instrumentation schemes according to their different levels of complexity. Specific practical examples - especially at involved complexity levels - are discussed in detail. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

Beginners Start
Being new to LabVIEW this book was a great help in learning. It starts with the basics and step through each phase. Excellent for any LabVIEW user.

A great book for a novice trying to become more proficient.
I had read all of the manuals that came with LabVIEW, but still needed something more to get me over the initial learning curve; something to answer the "Why should I do it that way?" questions .vs. the "Here's how to do it." The latter part of "LabVIEW for Everyone" did just that, in addition to providing more detail in how to perform basic operations.

Provides enough information to get started
Gives excellent overview and lets you see the potential of the software.

Good starting resource - lots of examples
I've been programming data acquisition systems for a long time and was daunted by the scope of learning yet another programming language. LabView product literature seemed difficult to understand. But, with the help of LabView for Everyone, I got into the project quickly and get results immediately. The book is easy to read, sometimes cutsey, but filled with good examples that work! They point out pitfalls, problem areas, and provide examples of how-to for many situations (for example, why the wires are different colors and sizes; common errors that result from broken wires, and so forth). Their examples were invaluable for getting my project done in a reasonable amount of time. I'd strongly recommend this book for people faced with getting going with LabView. I developed my project typing with one hand and leafing through this book with the other. I guess it saved me 4 weeks of work. That alone makes it worth the price, several-fold. ... Read more

Book Description

Drawing from the experience of several irrigation designers, contractors, and equipment manufacturers, this progressive, how-to reference takes you through all the steps and subjects you'll need to master irrigation design. Also includes metric values. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Great book to learn to install a professional system
I read this book to get ready to take my Texas Irrigation License exam. It explained how to properly install a professional quality sprinkler system in an easy to read and understand format. This book goes into detail about how to layout the sprinkler heads, how to pipe it all together, and how all the parts work together. I have read many irrigation books...This was the best book to get a good understanding of sprinkler systems without becoming an expert in the field of irrigation. Perfect for the do it yourself homeowner or individual wanting to get into the irrigation industry. I now have my license and highly recommend this book to anyone wanting to learn to install a good sprinkler system without having to read an irrigation reference manual.

The title should probably read "Over-Simplified..."
I was very disappointed with this book. The author places emphasis on the use of one brand of irrigation equipment, seldom mentioning other options that may better fit the application. I also found several errors in the enclosed calculations... not simply a typo, but in the methodology of the formulas. I would not recommend this book... ... Read more

Book Description

*******Text is available as of 5/21/2004!********

Dunn's Measurement and Data Analysis for Engineering & Science places emphasis on the process of experimentation, rather than the products of experimentation. Dunn’s objective is to expose undergraduates and experimentalists to the essential tools of experimentation, to the scientific detail behind these tools, and to the role of experimentation in the scientific process. Guided by worked examples, MATLAB sidebars, and laboratory exercises, the reader builds a strong working knowledge while moving progressively through the text.

The first three chapters of the text cover the basics--experimental methods, units & significant figures, technical communications and basic electronics. Hardware issues are then presented, with a focus on measurement systems, and calibration & response.The final chapters deal with data analysis, with an overview of basic probability & statistics, uncertainty analysis, signal characteristics, and digital signal analysis.Following the text chapters, a full laboratory manual, with an introduction and twelve lab experiments, is included. This gives users a chance to put their basic skills to work in actual engineering experiments, which are taken from a variety of engineering subject areas.

Throughout the book computer techniques are discussed, and specific MATLAB applications are included, for problem modeling, exploration and solution. MATLAB "sidebars" are used to present MATLAB, and associated M-files are provided on the Web site. ... Read more

Book Description

The definitive resource for information on air pollution emission sources and the technology available to control them.

The Air Pollution Engineering Manual has long been recognized as an important source of information on air pollution control issues for industries affected by the Clean Air Act and regulations in other countries. Thoroughly updated to reflect the latest emission factors and control measures for reducing air pollutants, this new edition provides industry and government professionals with the fundamental, technological, and regulatory information they need for compliance with the most recent air pollution standards. Contributing experts from diverse fields discuss the different processes that generate air pollution, equipment used with all types of gases and particulate matter, and emissions control for areas ranging from graphic arts and chemical processes to the metallurgical industry. More than 500 detailed flowcharts and photographs as well as an extensive listing of Internet resources accompany coverage of:
* Biological air pollution control, including biofilters and bioscrubbers
* Emissions from wood processing, brick and ceramic product manufacturing, pharmaceutical manufacturing, numerous other industrial processes, fugitive emissions, internal combustion sources, and evaporative losses
* Water/wastewater treatment plant emissions
* Changes in emission factors for each source category, including particle size factors related to PM10 and PM2.5 standards
* Updated MACT regulations and technologies
* And much more

THE AIR & WASTE MANAGEMENT ASSOCIATION is the world's leading membership organization for environmental professionals. The Association enhances the knowledge and competency of environmental professionals by providing a neutral forum for technology exchange, professional development, networking opportunities, public education, and outreach events. The Air & Waste Management Association promotes global environmental responsibility and increases the effectiveness of organizations and individuals in making critical decisions that benefit society. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

One of the most useful tools for Environmental Engineers
This book has the most extense inventory, sector by sector, of data related to processes, emissions and control techniques. Therefore, we have here a major supply of guidelines and useful information for our work in our everyday struggle to "play doctors" with our own planet. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Excellent Reference
The best reference I have reviewed for dimensional metrology principals. It does not cover the latest equipment, but it does provide excellent in-depth discussion of basic principals and theory of operation. ... Read more

Book Description

This monograph provides an up-to-date discussion of analysis strategies for regression problems in which predictor variables are measured with errors.The analysis of nonlinear regression models includes generalized linear models, transform-both-sides models and quasilikelihood and variance function problems.The text concentrates on the general ideas and strategies of estimation and inference rather than being concerned with a specific problem.Measurement error occurs in many fields, such as biometry, epidemiology and economics.In particular, the book contains a large number of epidemiological examples.An outline of strategies for handling progressively more difficult problems is also provided. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

excellent coverage of special nonlinear models
Ray Carroll and David Ruppert are well known research statisticians who have published many joint articles on regression, weighted regression and transformation and they have also written an excellent book together on this research topic. Stefanski has recently published several papers on measurement error models with Carroll. Here they have teamed up to write a statistics text on a unique topic. Measurement error models are common and practical when dealing with covariates that have measurement error. Least squares estimation in linear regression is based on the assumption that the predictor variables are measured without error. There are many articles and an excellent text by Fuller "Measurement Error Models", published by Wiley in 1988 that deals with the linear case. Also look at a section in Chapter 5 of Miller's "Beyond ANOVA, Basics of Applied Statistics" that refers to the problem as the error in variables problem. For the nonlinear case this is the first treatment. Well written and well documented, this text provides an up-to-date account of the theory and methods and provides real applications (e.g. the Framingham Heart Study). This is a great reference as are many of the other monographs in this series by Chapman and Hall/CRC Press. Includes bootstrap approaches in the chapter on fitting methods and models. ... Read more

Product Description

This guide to using the Saxon Home Study Math and Physics programs has been designed to help homeschoolers using Saxon math 54-Calculus and Physics. ... Read more

Book Description

Structured, focused practice for mastering LabVIEW programming fast!

*Master LabVIEW programming in six days, hands-on!
*Over 60 real-world problems and solutions
*Designed for easy learning and extensive real-world application
*Extensively classroom-tested with professional engineers
*CD-ROM: Tools, templates, solutions, and complete LabVIEW evaluation version

The supplementary workbook to LabVIEW Programming, Data Acquisition, and Analysis, this book presents a series of real-world programming challenges designed to help professionals master LabVIEW development in six focused one-day learning sessions.

Each session is organized into a series of short, 10 to 15 minute exercises, each with clear objectives and instructions designed to teach a single skill you can easily apply to your custom applications. Every skill is also mapped to the corresponding detailed explanations in LabVIEW Programming, Data Acquisition, and Analysis. Coverage includes:

*Installing LabVIEW and working with source files and subVIs
*Loops, conditional statements, and program flow
*Displaying data and working with data types
*Key categories of data acquisition and analysis applications
*Saving/reading data and file I/O
*Instrument control techniques
*Implementing leading data analysis VIs, and more

The only way to truly master LabVIEW is to practice. This book gives you the structured, focused practice you need to achieve mastery fast. Whether you're a LabVIEW beginner or an experienced developer who want to update your skills, you'll find it an invaluable resource.

CD-ROM INCLUDES:

*Complete library of LabVIEW tools and templates
*Solutions to every exercise in this workbook
*Full LabVIEW evaluation version ... Read more

Book Description

There is a tendency to make flow measurement a highly theoretical and technical subject but what most influences quality measurement is the practical application of meters, metering principles, and metering equipment and the use of quality equipment that can continue to function through the years with proper maintenance have the most influence in obtaining quality measurement.This guide provides a review of basic laws and principles, an overview of physical characteristics and behavior of gases and liquids, and a look at the dynamics of flow.The authors examine applications of specific meters, readout and related devices, and proving systems.Practical guidelines for the meter in use, condition of the fluid, details of the entire metering system, installation and operation, and the timing and quality of maintenance are also included.

This book is dedicated to condensing and sharing the authors' extensive experience in solving flow measurement problems with design engineers, operating personnel (from top supervisors to the newest testers), academically-based engineers, engineers of the manufacturers of flow meter equipment, worldwide practitioners, theorists, and people just getting into the business.

The authors' many years of experience are brought to bear in a thorough review of fluid flow measurement methods and applications.
Avoids theory and focuses on presentation of practical data for the novice and veteran engineer.
Useful for a wide range of engineers and technicians (as well as students) in a wide range of industries and applications. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Useful for a wide range of engineers and technicians
a thorough review of fluid flow measurement methods and applications. ... Read more

Book Description

(preliminary): Embedded in an autobiographic framework, this book retraces vividly and in some depth the golden years of particle physics as witnessed by one of the scientiest who made decisive contributions to the understanding of what is now known as the Standard Model of particle physics (...) Last but not least, this book is a must for all students and young researchers who have learned about the theoretical and experimental facts that make up the standard model through textbooks and would like to get a first hand account of the often multilayered and sinous development that finally led to the present architecture of this theory.

Book Description

Learn to apply the "dimensional method" to facilitate the design and testing of engineering and physical systemsÑand greatly accelerate the development of products. This is the first book to offer a practical approach to modeling and dimensional analysis, emphasizing the interests and problems of the engineer and applied scientist. Packed with illustrations, graphs, numeric tables, and concrete case studies, this in-depth reference work explains both dimensional analysis and scale modeling...concisely describes constructions of dimensional systems, including SI (metric) and Imperial (U.S.)...and provides over 250 worked-out examples drawn from engineering, applied physics, biomechanics, astronomy, geometry, and economics . ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Something every technical profeesional should have
An incredibly easy book to read. I found I could go from section to section and extract the knowledge that needed at that time. Sometimes I just pick it up and open it at random and I often get something new out of it. After being exposed to this book you can see how dimensional analysis is something that most of us should be capable of applying to those problems that lend themselves to no other approach. The only reason I gave it 4 and not 5 was because I would have liked to see more financial examples and I don't think amperes should be considered a fundamental unit. One of the best technical books I have bought. ... Read more