Using the HTML5 Filesystem API

Chunyan Li is a course instructor with many years of experience in teaching about time series analysis. His book is essential for students and researchers in oceanography and other subjects in the Earth sciences, looking for a complete coverage of the theory and practice of time series data analysis using MATLAB. This textbook covers the topic's core theory in depth, and provides numerous instructional examples, many drawn directly from the author's own teaching experience, using data files, examples, and exercises. The book explores many concepts, including time; distance on Earth; wind, current, and wave data formats; finding a subset of ship-based data along planned or random transects; error propagation; Taylor series expansion for error estimates; the least squares method; base functions and linear independence of base functions; tidal harmonic analysis; Fourier series and the generalized Fourier transform; filtering techniques: sampling theorems: finite sampling effects; wavelet

Quantitative Methods in Archaeology Using R is the first hands-on guide to using the R statistical computing system written specifically for archaeologists. It shows how to use the system to analyze many types of archaeological data. Part I includes tutorials on R, with applications to real archaeological data showing how to compute descriptive statistics, create tables, and produce a wide variety of charts and graphs. Part II addresses the major multivariate approaches used by archaeologists, including multiple regression (and the generalized linear model); multiple analysis of variance and discriminant analysis; principal components analysis; correspondence analysis; distances and scaling; and cluster analysis. Part III covers specialized topics in archaeology, including intra-site spatial analysis, seriation, and assemblage diversity.

Quantitative Methods in Archaeology Using R is the first hands-on guide to using the R statistical computing system written specifically for archaeologists. It shows how to use the system to analyze many types of archaeological data. Part I includes tutorials on R, with applications to real archaeological data showing how to compute descriptive statistics, create tables, and produce a wide variety of charts and graphs. Part II addresses the major multivariate approaches used by archaeologists, including multiple regression (and the generalized linear model); multiple analysis of variance and discriminant analysis; principal components analysis; correspondence analysis; distances and scaling; and cluster analysis. Part III covers specialized topics in archaeology, including intra-site spatial analysis, seriation, and assemblage diversity.

This book presents the latest numerical solutions to initial value problems and boundary value problems described by ODEs and PDEs. The author offers practical methods that can be adapted to solve wide ranges of problems and illustrates them in the increasingly popular open source computer language R, allowing integration with more statistically based methods. The book begins with standard techniques, followed by an overview of 'high resolution' flux limiters and WENO to solve problems with solutions exhibiting high gradient phenomena. Meshless methods using radial basis functions are then discussed in the context of scattered data interpolation and the solution of PDEs on irregular grids. Three detailed case studies demonstrate how numerical methods can be used to tackle very different complex problems. With its focus on practical solutions to real-world problems, this book will be useful to students and practitioners in all areas of science and engineering, especially those using R.

Written in a clear and lively tone, Statistics Using IBM SPSS provides a data-centric approach to statistics with integrated SPSS (version 22) commands, ensuring that students gain both a deep conceptual understanding of statistics and practical facility with the leading statistical software package. With one hundred worked examples, the textbook guides students through statistical practice using real data and avoids complicated mathematics. Numerous end-of-chapter exercises allow students to apply and test their understanding of chapter topics, with detailed answers available online. The third edition has been updated throughout and includes a new chapter on research design, new topics (including weighted mean, resampling with the bootstrap, the role of the syntax file in workflow management, and regression to the mean) and new examples and exercises. Student learning is supported by a rich suite of online resources, including answers to end-of-chapter exercises, real data sets, Power

A Practitioner's Guide to Stochastic Frontier Analysis Using Stata provides practitioners in academia and industry with a step-by-step guide on how to conduct efficiency analysis using the stochastic frontier approach. The authors explain in detail how to estimate production, cost, and profit efficiency and introduce the basic theory of each model in an accessible way, using empirical examples that demonstrate the interpretation and application of models. This book also provides computer code, allowing users to apply the models in their own work, and incorporates the most recent stochastic frontier models developed in academic literature. Such recent developments include models of heteroscedasticity and exogenous determinants of inefficiency, scaling models, panel models with time-varying inefficiency, growth models, and panel models that separate firm effects and persistent and transient inefficiency. Immensely helpful to applied researchers, this book bridges the chasm between theory

A Practitioner's Guide to Stochastic Frontier Analysis Using Stata provides practitioners in academia and industry with a step-by-step guide on how to conduct efficiency analysis using the stochastic frontier approach. The authors explain in detail how to estimate production, cost, and profit efficiency and introduce the basic theory of each model in an accessible way, using empirical examples that demonstrate the interpretation and application of models. This book also provides computer code, allowing users to apply the models in their own work, and incorporates the most recent stochastic frontier models developed in academic literature. Such recent developments include models of heteroscedasticity and exogenous determinants of inefficiency, scaling models, panel models with time-varying inefficiency, growth models, and panel models that separate firm effects and persistent and transient inefficiency. Immensely helpful to applied researchers, this book bridges the chasm between theory

Nonlinear Structural Dynamics Using FE Methods emphasises fundamental mechanics principles and outlines a modern approach to understanding structural dynamics. This will be useful to practising engineers but also students who will find advanced topics presented in an accessible manner. The book successfully presents the fundamentals of structural dynamics and infuses them with finite element (FE) methods. First, the author establishes and develops mechanics principles that are basic enough to form the foundations of FE methods. Second, the book presents specific computer procedures to implement FE methods so that general problems can be 'solved' - that is, responses can be produced given the loads, initial conditions and so on. Finally, the book introduces methods of analyses to leverage and expand the FE solutions.

This comprehensive introduction to the principles of functional programming using F# shows how to apply basic theoretical concepts to produce succinct and elegant programs. It demonstrates the role of functional programming in a wide spectrum of applications including databases and systems. Coverage also includes advanced features in the .NET library, the imperative features of F# and topics such as text processing, sequences, computation expressions and asynchronous computation. With a broad spectrum of examples and exercises, the book is perfect for courses in functional programming and for self-study. Enhancing its use as a text is an accompanying website with downloadable programs, lecture slides, mini-projects and links to further F# sources.

This comprehensive introduction to the principles of functional programming using F# shows how to apply basic theoretical concepts to produce succinct and elegant programs. It demonstrates the role of functional programming in a wide spectrum of applications including databases and systems. Coverage also includes advanced features in the .NET library, the imperative features of F# and topics such as text processing, sequences, computation expressions and asynchronous computation. With a broad spectrum of examples and exercises, the book is perfect for courses in functional programming and for self-study. Enhancing its use as a text is an accompanying website with downloadable programs, lecture slides, mini-projects and links to further F# sources.

Using Chinese Synonyms is an essential reference book, specifically designed for non-native speakers of Chinese, and for teachers and other language professionals who want a user-friendly guide to the finer nuances of Chinese synonyms. It contains approximately 1700 synonyms in 316 groups. With the particular needs of non-native speakers of Chinese in mind, this invaluable book selects and explains words and phrases in everyday use, allowing students to enhance their knowledge of one of the most important and widely-spoken languages in the world. This book assists in the development of fluent, spontaneous and skilful use of Chinese synonyms.

Financial Products provides a step-by-step guide to some of the most important ideas in financial mathematics. It describes and explains interest rates, discounting, arbitrage, risk neutral probabilities, forward contracts, futures, bonds, FRA and swaps. It shows how to construct both elementary and complex (Libor) zero curves. Options are described, illustrated and then priced using the Black Scholes formula and binomial trees. Finally, there is a chapter describing default probabilities, credit ratings and credit derivatives (CDS, TRS, CSO and CDO). An important feature of the book is that it explains this range of concepts and techniques in a way that can be understood by those with only a basic understanding of algebra. Many of the calculations are illustrated using Excel spreadsheets, as are some of the more complex algebraic processes. This accessible approach makes it an ideal introduction to financial products for undergraduates and those studying for professional financial qua

Financial Products provides a step-by-step guide to some of the most important ideas in financial mathematics. It describes and explains interest rates, discounting, arbitrage, risk neutral probabilities, forward contracts, futures, bonds, FRA and swaps. It shows how to construct both elementary and complex (Libor) zero curves. Options are described, illustrated and then priced using the Black Scholes formula and binomial trees. Finally, there is a chapter describing default probabilities, credit ratings and credit derivatives (CDS, TRS, CSO and CDO). An important feature of the book is that it explains this range of concepts and techniques in a way that can be understood by those with only a basic understanding of algebra. Many of the calculations are illustrated using Excel spreadsheets, as are some of the more complex algebraic processes. This accessible approach makes it an ideal introduction to financial products for undergraduates and those studying for professional financial qua

Data Analysis Using Regression and Multilevel/Hierarchical Models, first published in 2007, is a comprehensive manual for the applied researcher who wants to perform data analysis using linear and nonlinear regression and multilevel models. The book introduces a wide variety of models, whilst at the same time instructing the reader in how to fit these models using available software packages. The book illustrates the concepts by working through scores of real data examples that have arisen from the authors' own applied research, with programming codes provided for each one. Topics covered include causal inference, including regression, poststratification, matching, regression discontinuity, and instrumental variables, as well as multilevel logistic regression and missing-data imputation. Practical tips regarding building, fitting, and understanding are provided throughout.

Data Analysis Using Regression and Multilevel/Hierarchical Models, first published in 2007, is a comprehensive manual for the applied researcher who wants to perform data analysis using linear and nonlinear regression and multilevel models. The book introduces a wide variety of models, whilst at the same time instructing the reader in how to fit these models using available software packages. The book illustrates the concepts by working through scores of real data examples that have arisen from the authors' own applied research, with programming codes provided for each one. Topics covered include causal inference, including regression, poststratification, matching, regression discontinuity, and instrumental variables, as well as multilevel logistic regression and missing-data imputation. Practical tips regarding building, fitting, and understanding are provided throughout.

Using Russian is a guide to Russian usage for those who have already acquired the basics of the language and wish to extend their knowledge. Unlike conventional grammars, it gives special attention to those areas of vocabulary and grammar which cause most difficulty to English speakers, and focuses on questions of style and register which are all too often ignored. Clear, readable and easy to consult, it will prove invaluable to students seeking to improve their fluency and confidence in Russian. This second edition has been substantially revised and expanded to incorporate fresh material and up-to-date information. Many of the original chapters have been rewritten and one brand new chapter has been added, providing a clear picture of Russian usage in the 21st century.

Using Arabic is a guide to Arabic usage for students who have already acquired the basics of the language and wish to extend their knowledge. Focusing mainly on Modern Standard Arabic, it is divided into three clear sections on varieties of Arabic, grammar, and vocabulary. 'Varieties of Arabic' describes the linguistic situation in the Arab world, showing students variations in register through the use of authentic texts. The vocabulary section is designed not only to expand students' knowledge of Arabic words, but also to show them which words are most current, and which are appropriate to different registers. The final chapter provides an overview of Arabic grammar, giving many modern-day examples, and highlighting common errors. Clear, readable and easy to consult, Using Arabic will prove an invaluable reference for students seeking to improve their fluency and confidence in Arabic.

This monograph describes the theory and practice of electron spectrometry using synchrotron radiation. The book is in three parts. After a short review of background theory, neon is used to elucidate the principles of the photoelectron and Auger spectra. The second part of the book looks at experimental aspects, including characteristic features of electrostatic analysers, detectors, lenses, disturbances, and optimisation, and then illustrates theory and experiment with details of recent experiments. The third part provides useful reference data, including wavefunctions, special theory, polarisation and special aspects of instrumentation. A detailed reference list completes the volume. The study of electron spectrometry using synchrotron radiation is a growing field of research driven by the increasing availability of advanced synchrotron radiation light sources and improved theoretical methods for solving the many-electron problem in atoms. This balanced account will be of value to bo

This is the first Visual Basic.NET book to provide a comprehensive discussion of the major data structures and algorithms. Here, instead of having to translate material on C++ or Java, the professional or student VB.NET programmer will find a tutorial on how to use data structures and algorithms and a reference for implementation using VB.NET for data structures and algorithms from the .NET Framework Class Library as well as those which must be developed by the programmer. In an object-oriented fashion, the author presents arrays and arraylists, linked lists, hash tables, dictionaries, trees, graphs, sorting and searching as well as more advanced algorithms, such as probabilistic algorithms and dynamic programming. His approach is very practical, for example using timing tests rather than Big O analysis to compare the performance of data structures and algorithms. This book can be used in both beginning and advanced computer programming courses that use the VB.NET language and, most im

This monograph describes the theory and practice of electron spectrometry using synchrotron radiation. The book is in three parts. After a short review of background theory, neon is used to elucidate the principles of the photoelectron and Auger spectra. The second part of the book looks at experimental aspects, including characteristic features of electrostatic analysers, detectors, lenses, disturbances, and optimisation, and then illustrates theory and experiment with details of recent experiments. The third part provides useful reference data, including wavefunctions, special theory, polarisation and special aspects of instrumentation. A detailed reference list completes the volume. The study of electron spectrometry using synchrotron radiation is a growing field of research driven by the increasing availability of advanced synchrotron radiation light sources and improved theoretical methods for solving the many-electron problem in atoms. This balanced account will be of value to bo

Using CRC Cards, first published in 1995, is a comprehensive introduction to CRC (Class, Responsibility, Collaborator) cards. It includes a description of the cards and how they can be used in interactive sessions to develop an object-oriented model of an application. In this book, the author draws on her years of project experience to describe how CRC cards can contribute at all stages of the software lifecycle. It includes practical examples of how to utilize CRC cards in projects using either formal or informal development techniques. Using CRC Cards also provides a detailed look at how designs created with CRC cards can be mapped to an effective and efficient implementation in C++. Software analysts, designers and developers will find this a practical handbook for using CRC cards. It guides the transition to the object-oriented paradigm as well as providing a process for the development of object-oriented applications. In addition, software managers will gain an understanding of t

Offering a new perspective, this textbook demystifies the operation of electric machines by providing an integrated understanding of electromagnetic fields, electric circuits, numerical analysis, and computer programming. It presents fundamental concepts in a rigorous manner, emphasising underlying physical modelling assumptions and limitations, and provides detailed explanations of how to implement the finite element method to explore these concepts using Python. It includes explanations of the conversion of concepts into algorithms, and algorithms into code, and examples building in complexity, from simple linear-motion electromagnets to rotating machines. Over 100 theoretical and computational end-of-chapter exercises test understanding, with solutions for instructors and downloadable Python code available online. Ideal for graduates and senior undergraduates studying electric machines, electric machine design and control, and power electronic converters and power systems engineerin

A comprehensive introduction and teaching resource for state-of-the-art Qualitative Comparative Analysis (QCA) using R software. This guide facilitates the efficient teaching, independent learning, and use of QCA with the best available software, reducing the time and effort required when encountering not just the logic of a new method, but also new software. With its applied and practical focus, the book offers a genuinely simple and intuitive resource for implementing the most complete protocol of QCA. To make the lives of students, teachers, researchers, and practitioners as easy as possible, the book includes learning goals, core points, empirical examples, and tips for good practices. The freely available online material provides a rich body of additional resources to aid users in their learning process. Beyond performing core analyses with the R package QCA, the book also facilitates a close integration with the R package SetMethods allowing for a host of additional protocols for

A comprehensive introduction and teaching resource for state-of-the-art Qualitative Comparative Analysis (QCA) using R software. This guide facilitates the efficient teaching, independent learning, and use of QCA with the best available software, reducing the time and effort required when encountering not just the logic of a new method, but also new software. With its applied and practical focus, the book offers a genuinely simple and intuitive resource for implementing the most complete protocol of QCA. To make the lives of students, teachers, researchers, and practitioners as easy as possible, the book includes learning goals, core points, empirical examples, and tips for good practices. The freely available online material provides a rich body of additional resources to aid users in their learning process. Beyond performing core analyses with the R package QCA, the book also facilitates a close integration with the R package SetMethods allowing for a host of additional protocols for

An R Companion for the Third Edition of The Fundamentals of Political Science Research offers students a chance to delve into the world of R using real political data sets and statistical analysis techniques directly from Paul M. Kellstedt and Guy D. Whitten's best-selling textbook. Built in parallel with the main text, this workbook teaches students to apply the techniques they learn in each chapter by reproducing the analyses and results from each lesson using R. Students will also learn to create all of the tables and figures found in the textbook, leading to an even greater mastery of the core material. This accessible, informative, and engaging companion walks through the use of R step-by-step, using command lines and screenshots to demonstrate proper use of the software. With the help of these guides, students will become comfortable creating, editing, and using data sets in R to produce original statistical analyses for evaluating causal claims. End-of-chapter exercises encourag

Understand multiphase flows using multidisciplinary knowledge in physical principles, modelling theories, and engineering practices. This essential text methodically introduces the important concepts, governing mechanisms, and state-of-the-art theories, using numerous real-world applications, examples, and problems. Covers all major types of multiphase flows, including gas-solid, gas-liquid (sprays or bubbling), liquid-solid, and gas-solid-liquid flows. Introduces the volume-time-averaged transport theorems and associated Lagrangian-trajectory modelling and Eulerian-Eulerian multi-fluid modelling. Explains typical computational techniques, measurement methods and four representative subjects of multiphase flow systems. Suitable as a reference for engineering students, researchers, and practitioners, this text explores and applies fundamental theories to the analysis of system performance using a case-based approach.

A unique text integrating numerics, mathematics and applications to provide a hands-on approach to using optimization techniques, this mathematically accessible textbook emphasises conceptual understanding and importance of theorems rather than elaborate proofs. It allows students to develop fundamental optimization methods before delving into MATLAB®'s optimization toolbox, and to link MATLAB's results with the results from their own code. Following a practical approach, the text demonstrates several applications, from error-free analytic examples to truss (size) optimization, and 2D and 3D shape optimization, where numerical errors are inevitable. The principle of minimum potential energy is discussed to highlight the deep relationship between engineering and optimization. MATLAB code in every chapter illustrates key concepts and the text demonstrates the coupling between MATLAB and SOLIDWORKS® for design optimization. A wide variety of optimization problems are covered including con

This textbook is a complete rewrite, and expansion of Hugh Rollinson's highly successful 1993 book Using Geochemical Data: Evaluation, Presentation, Interpretation. Rollinson and Pease's new book covers the explosion in geochemical thinking over the past three decades, as new instruments and techniques have come online. It provides a comprehensive overview of how modern geochemical data are used in the understanding of geological and petrological processes. It covers major element, trace element, and radiogenic and stable isotope geochemistry. It explains the potential of many geochemical techniques, provides examples of their application, and emphasizes how to interpret the resulting data. Additional topics covered include the critical statistical analysis of geochemical data, current geochemical techniques, effective display of geochemical data, and the application of data in problem solving and identifying petrogenetic processes within a geological context. It will be invaluable for

This book marries social work and artificial intelligence to provide an introductory guide for using AI for social good. Following an introductory chapter laying out approaches and ethical principles of using AI for social work interventions, the book describes in detail an intervention to increase the spread of HIV information by using algorithms to determine the key individuals in a social network of homeless youth. Other chapters present interdisciplinary collaborations between AI and social work students, including a chatbot for sexual health information and algorithms to determine who is at higher stress among persons with Type 2 Diabetes. For students, academic researchers, industry leaders, and practitioners, these real-life examples from the USC Center for Artificial Intelligence in Society demonstrate how social work and artificial intelligence can be used in tandem for the greater good.

The quantification of morphology through time is a vital tool in elucidating macroevolutionary patterns. Studies of disparity require intense effort but can provide insights beyond those gained using other methodologies. Over the last several decades, studies of disparity have proliferated, often using echinoderms as a model organism. Echinoderms have been used to study the methodology of disparity analyses and potential biases as well as documenting the morphological patterns observed in clades through time. Combining morphological studies with phylogenetic analyses or other disparate data sets allows for the testing of detailed and far-reaching evolutionary hypotheses.

How might evidence of language use – writing and speech – be used as a way of studying language? Corpus linguistics is the study of linguistic data from a particular language or set of languages. It is a fast-moving approach to studying language, and there is still a degree of divergence in how research questions are approached using corpus data. This book uses a framework, based on the work of Karl Popper, to explore a number of fundamental issues in corpus linguistics. It critically evaluates how these issues are tackled, and proposes a set of best practices for future research. It spells out why using corpus data is valuable, what we can learn from using it, and how we may most effectively progress our understanding of language by using such data. It is essential reading for researchers and students of language in general, and of applied linguistics and English language in particular.

Using numerous examples with real data, this textbook closely integrates the learning of statistics with the learning of R. It is suitable for introductory-level learners, allows for curriculum flexibility, and includes, as an online resource, R-code script files for all examples and figures included in each chapter, for students to learn from and adapt and use in their future data analytic work. Other unique features created specifically for this textbook include an online R tutorial that introduces readers to data frames and other basic elements of the R architecture, and a CRAN library of datasets and functions that is used throughout the book. Essential topics often overlooked in other introductory texts, such as data management, are covered. The textbook includes online solutions to all end-of-chapter exercises and PowerPoint slides for all chapters as additional resources, and is suitable for those who do not have a strong background in mathematics.

Connecting theory with numerical techniques using MATLAB®, this practical textbook equips students with the tools required to solve finite element problems. This hands-on guide covers a wide range of engineering problems through nine well-structured chapters including solid mechanics, heat transfer and fluid dynamics; equilibrium, steady state and transient; and 1-D, 2-D and 3-D problems. Engineering problems are discussed using case study examples, which are solved using a systematic approach, both by examining the steps manually and by implementing a complete MATLAB®code. This topical coverage is supplemented by discourse on meshing with a detailed explanation and implementation of 2-D meshing algorithms. Introducing theory and numerical techniques alongside comprehensive examples this text increases engagement and provides students with the confidence needed to implement their own computer codes to solve given problems.

An SPSS Companion for the Third Edition of The Fundamentals of Political Science Research offers students a chance to delve into the world of SPSS using real political science data sets and statistical analysis techniques directly from Paul M. Kellstedt and Guy D. Whitten's best-selling textbook. Built in parallel with the main text, this workbook teaches students to apply the techniques they learn in each chapter by reproducing the analyses and results from each lesson using SPSS. Students will also learn to create all of the tables and figures found in the textbook, leading to an even greater mastery of the core material. This accessible, informative, and engaging companion walks through the use of SPSS step-by-step, using command lines and screenshots to demonstrate proper use of the software. With the help of these guides, students will become comfortable creating, editing, and using data sets in SPSS to produce original statistical analyses for evaluating causal claims. End-of-cha

Building upon the success of the first edition, Statistics Using Stata uses the latest version of Stata to meet the needs of today's students. Engaging and accessible for students from a variety of mathematical backgrounds, this textbook integrates statistical concepts with the Stata (version 16) software package. It aligns Stata commands with examples based on real data, enabling students to understand statistics in a way that reflects statistical practice. Capitalizing on Stata's menu-driven 'point and click' and program syntax interface, the chapters guide students from the comfortable 'point and click' environment to the beginnings of statistical programming. Its coverage of essential topics gives instructors flexibility in curriculum planning and provides students with more advanced material to prepare for future work. Online resources - including solutions to exercises, PowerPoint slides, and Stata syntax (do-files) for each chapter - allow students to review independently and ad

This is an Element surveying the most important literature using game theory and evolutionary game theory to shed light on questions in the philosophy of biology. There are two branches of literature that the book focuses on. It begins with a short introduction to game theory and evolutionary game theory. It then turns to working using signaling games to explore questions related to communication, meaning, language, and reference. The second part of the book addresses prosociality - strategic behavior that contributes to the successful functioning of social groups - using the prisoner's dilemma, stag hunt, and bargaining games.

A Stata Companion for the Third Edition of The Fundamentals of Political Science Research offers students a chance to delve into the world of Stata using real political data sets and statistical analysis techniques directly from Paul M. Kellstedt and Guy D. Whitten's best-selling textbook. Built in parallel with the main text, this workbook teaches students to apply the techniques they learn in each chapter by reproducing the analyses and results from each lesson using Stata. Students will also learn to create all of the tables and figures found in the textbook, leading to an even greater mastery of the core material. This accessible, informative, and engaging companion walks through the use of Stata step-by-step, using command lines and screenshots to demonstrate proper use of the software. With the help of these guides, students will become comfortable creating, editing, and using data sets in Stata to produce original statistical analyses for evaluating causal claims. End-of-chapter

In Strategic Decisions, Planellas and Muni provide an invaluable tool for anyone facing the challenge of taking strategic decisions. Using their 'circle of strategic decisions' framework, they guide readers smoothly through the decision-making process. Following this, they present thirty of the most widely used strategic models, including Porter's Five Forces, Ansoff's Matrix, Blue Ocean Strategy, Open Innovation, and the 8-Step Change Model. For each model, they demonstrate the content, context, and application, using clear and eye-catching graphics. This is a must-have book for all M.B.A. students and business managers.

In Strategic Decisions, Planellas and Muni provide an invaluable tool for anyone facing the challenge of taking strategic decisions. Using their 'circle of strategic decisions' framework, they guide readers smoothly through the decision-making process. Following this, they present thirty of the most widely used strategic models, including Porter's Five Forces, Ansoff's Matrix, Blue Ocean Strategy, Open Innovation, and the 8-Step Change Model. For each model, they demonstrate the content, context, and application, using clear and eye-catching graphics. This is a must-have book for all M.B.A. students and business managers.

Using Figurative Language presents results from a multidisciplinary decades-long study of figurative language that addresses the question, 'Why don't people just say what they mean?' This research empirically investigates goals speakers or writers have when speaking (writing) figuratively, and concomitantly, meaning effects wrought by figurative language usage. These 'pragmatic effects' arise from many kinds of figurative language including metaphors (e.g. 'This computer is a dinosaur'), verbal irony (e.g. 'Nice place you got here'), idioms (e.g. 'Bite the bullet'), proverbs (e.g. 'Don't put all your eggs in one basket') and others. Reviewed studies explore mechanisms - linguistic, psychological, social and others - underlying pragmatic effects, some traced to basic processes embedded in human sensory, perceptual, embodied, cognitive, social and schematic functioning. The book should interest readers, researchers and scholars in fields beyond psychology, linguistics and philosophy that