Develops a theory of contemporary culture that relies on displacing economic notions of cultural production with notions of cultural expenditure. This book represents an effort to rethink cultural theory from the perspective of a concept of cultural materialism, one that radically redefines postmodern formulations of the body.

A fixed-base piloted simulator investigation has been made of the feasibility of using any of several manual guidance and control techniques for emergency lunar escape to orbit with very simplified, lightweight vehicle systems. The escape-to-orbit vehicles accommodate two men, but one man performs all of the guidance and control functions. Three basic attitude-control modes and four manually executed trajectory-guidance schemes were used successfully during approximately 125 simulated flights under a variety of conditions. These conditions included thrust misalinement, uneven propellant drain, and a vehicle moment-of-inertia range of 250 to 12,000 slugs per square foot. Two types of results are presented - orbit characteristics and pilot ratings of vehicle handling qualities.

Is our reality just an advanced simulation? This fascinating book takes an in-depth, multifaceted look at simulation theory, the controversial hypothesis that we exist within a sophisticated computer simulation created by a more advanced civilization. Walking the line between scientific investigation and philosophical speculation, the book traces simulation theory from its roots in ancient philosophy and thought experiments to contemporary models of physics, quantum theory, and computing. Covering historical context from Plato's Allegory of the Buddhist concepts of Maya and Shunyata, the book shows how humanity has long grappled with the idea that perceived reality is an illusion. It then analyzes modern scientific perspectives, including physicist Nick Bostrom's famous Simulation Argument, which proposes three startling possibilities for our existence. The book provides accessible coverage of relevant quantum physics experiments, highlighting how paradoxical findings in quantum entanglement, superposition, and double slit studies closely align with the mechanisms of a simulated reality. Beyond physics, further dimensions of potential evidence - from the eerie precision of nature's constants to the role of consciousness and limitations of human perception - are examined to paint a multifaceted case. This trip down the rabbit hole grapples with complex ethical dilemmas, simulation theory paradoxes, and the deepest implications for the meaning of life. Are we just information? Is free will an illusion? What are the implications for artificial intelligence and virtual reality? These questions and more await readers ready to gaze into the existential mirror of simulation theory. Those ready to open Pandora's box will never look at reality the same way again.

From power electronics to power integrated circuits (PICs), smart power technologies, devices, and beyond, Integrated Power Devices and TCAD Simulation provides a complete picture of the power management and semiconductor industry. An essential reference for power device engineering students and professionals, the book not only describes the physics inside integrated power semiconductor devices such lateral double-diffused metal oxide semiconductor field-effect transistors (LDMOSFETs), lateral insulated-gate bipolar transistors (LIGBTs), and super junction LDMOSFETs but also delivers a simple introduction to power management systems. Instead of abstract theoretical treatments and daunting equations, the text uses technology computer-aided design (TCAD) simulation examples to explain the design of integrated power semiconductor devices. It also explores next generation power devices such as gallium nitride power high electron mobility transistors (GaN power HEMTs). Including a virtual process flow for smart PIC technology as well as a hard-to-find technology development organization chart, Integrated Power Devices and TCAD Simulation gives students and junior engineers a head start in the field of power semiconductor devices while helping to fill the gap between power device engineering and power management systems.

Learn to use modeling and simulation methods to attack real-world problems, from physics to engineering, from life sciences to process engineering Reviews of the first edition (2009): "Perfectly fits introductory modeling courses [...] and is an enjoyable reading in the first place. Highly recommended [...]" Zentralblatt MATH, European Mathematical Society, 2009 "This book differs from almost all other available modeling books in that [the authors address] both mechanistic and statistical models as well as 'hybrid' models. [...] The modeling range is enormous." SIAM Society of Industrial and Applied Mathematics, USA, 2011 This completely revised and substantially extended second edition answers the most important questions in the field of modeling: What is a mathematical model? What types of models do exist? Which model is appropriate for a particular problem? What are simulation, parameter estimation, and validation? What kind of mathematical problems appear and how can these be efficiently solved using professional free of charge open source software? The book addresses undergraduates and practitioners alike. Although only basic knowledge of calculus and linear algebra is required, the most important mathematical structures are discussed in sufficient detail, ranging from statistical models to partial differential equations and accompanied by examples from biology, ecology, economics, medicine, agricultural, chemical, electrical, mechanical, and process engineering. About 200 pages of additional material include a unique chapter on virtualization, Crash Courses on the data analysis and programming languages R and Python and on the computer algebra language Maxima, many new methods and examples scattered throughout the book, an update of all software-related procedures, and a comprehensive book software providing templates for typical modeling tasks in thousands of code lines. The book software includes GmLinux, an operating system specifically designed for this book providing preconfigured and ready-to-use installations of OpenFOAM, Salome, FreeCAD/CfdOF workbench, ParaView, R, Maxima/wxMaxima, Python, Rstudio, Quarto/Markdown and other free of charge open source software used in the book.

The goal of the text is to share lessons learned since the authors initiated their simulation programs, mentoring many nursing faculty members along the way. The resources provided in this text and the accompanying electronic components will provide a step by step process to implement an engaging teaching learning environment through the use of high fidelity human simulation. Mini video vignettes and photos will accompany all chapters and will provide a visual resources as you learn the steps to deliver successful simulations. In addition, 10 sample scenarios will be provided in the appendix with clear instructions on how