While numerous advanced statistical approaches have recently been developed for quantitative trait loci (QTL) mapping, the methods are scattered throughout the literature. Statistical Methods for QTL Mapping brings together many recent statistical techniques that address the data complexity of QTL mapping. After introducing basic genetics topics and statistical principles, the author discusses the principles of quantitative genetics, general statistical issues of QTL mapping, commonly used one-dimensional QTL mapping approaches, and multiple interval mapping methods. He then explains how to use a feature selection approach to tackle a QTL mapping problem with dense markers. The book also provides comprehensive coverage of Bayesian models and MCMC algorithms and describes methods for multi-trait QTL mapping and eQTL mapping, including meta-trait methods and multivariate sequential procedures. This book emphasizes the modern statistical methodology for QTL mapping as well as the statistical issues that arise during this process. It gives the necessary biological background for statisticians without training in genetics and, likewise, covers statistical thinking and principles for geneticists. Written primarily for geneticists and statisticians specializing in QTL mapping, the book can also be used as a supplement in graduate courses or for self-study by PhD students working on QTL mapping projects.

This volume contains the papers presented at the Third International Conference on Thin-Walled Structures, Cracow, Poland on June 5-7, 2001. There has been a substantial growth in knowledge in the field of Thin-Walled Structures over the past few decades. Lightweight structures are in widespread use in the Civil Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Aeronautical, Automobile, Chemical and Offshore Engineering fields. The development of new processes, new methods of connections, new materials has gone hand-in-hand with the evolution of advanced analytical methods suitable for dealing with the increasing complexity of the design work involved in ensuring safety and confidence in the finished products.Of particular importance with regard to the analytical process is the growth in use of the finite element method. This method, about 40 years ago, was confined to rather specialist use, mainly in the aeronautical field, because of its requirements for substantial calculation capacity. The development over recent years of extremely powerful microcomputers has ensured that the application of the finite element method is now possible for problems in all fields of engineering, and a variety of finite element packages have been developed to enhance the ease of use and the availability of the method in the engineering design process.

Wood is a natural building material: if used in building elements, it can play structural, functional and aesthetic roles at the same time. The use of wood in buildings, which goes back to the oldest of times, is now experiencing a period of strong expansion in virtue of the sustainable dimension of wood buildings from the environmental, economic and social standpoints. However, its use as an engineering material calls for constant development of theoretical and experimental research to respond properly to the issues involved in this. In the single chapters written by experts in different fields, the book aims to contribute to knowledge in the application of wood in the building industry.

The successful preservation of an historic building, complex or city depends on the continued use and daily care that come with it. The possibility of continued use depends on the adaptation of the building to modern standards and practice of living, requiring changes in constructional or structural features. Conservation engineering is the process