by Robert L. Fleischer (1991)
A serendipitous discovery in nuclear physics has led to a useful tool in materials science. In the late 1950s, scientists at General Electric (among them the author) discovered that when mica is exposed to energetic charged particles (such as are emitted in radioactive decay or occur in cosmic rays), the particles leave latent tracks in the material. When such a material is chemically etched, the tracks are revealed as narrow, deep pits, whose size and shape is determined both by the particle that made the track and by the technique used in etching. It soon turned out that glass, plastics, or certain other materials can be similarly treated. This discovery paved the way not only for a new and useful method of measuring radioactivity, it has also found widespread applications in other fields, ranging from geology and materials science to archaeology and art history. Thus, for example, naturally produced tracks can be used to estimate the age of a mineral deposit or an archaeological material; and deliberately produced tracks can be used to make extremely fine filters. Fleischer presents the history of these developments and discusses the applications of the technique in a way that will be interesting to anyone with a minimal knowledge of physics.
Renata Salecl
A consideration of the legitimacy of the calls for tolerance and respect by multiculturalists and exploring practices such as body-mutilation as symptoms of the radical change that has affected subjectivity in contemporary society.
Isaac Victor Kerlow & Judson Rosebush
Significant changes have taken place in the world of computer graphics since the first edition of this pioneering guide was published in 1986. The Second Edition brings readers up to date by incorporating the latest imaging techniques, input and output technologies, interface designs, and two-dimensional and three-dimensional applications. Computer Graphics for Designers and Artists, Second Edition, features a new chapter on animation that covers 3-D synthetic animation, 2-D cell animation, and production steps. The original chapter on three-dimensional modeling now offers expanded information on fractals and ray tracing techniques. The first section of the book explains basic concepts and defines terms of computer graphics, and discusses tools of the trade such as hardware, software, and peripheral devices. Next, readers are introduced to both general and specific applications of computer graphics techniques. All the latest techniques are discussed for both color and black-and-white applications in chapters that address two- and three-dimensional drawing and design; CD-ROM, videodiscs, and graphics in multimedia and virtual reality; output and prepress innovations, including the PostScript language, color separations, and color laser printing; input devices such as scanners and digitizing tablets, body suits, and data gloves; and applications in the fine arts and hypermedia. Functions and limitations of computers in the creation of images and objects are described in nontechnical terms. Virtually all types of questions that may arise in the course of using the computer in graphics applications are answered. Over 100 new illustrations - many in full color - are featured among the guide's more than 500 drawings and photographs. These visuals offer examples of what the computer can achieve, in addition to clarifying various technical procedures. This practice-oriented survey of the technical concepts and applications of computer graphics will serve the needs of graphic designers, multimedia and animation professionals, filmmakers, computer and software experts, and students pursuing careers in these fields.
Julie Anderson, Emm Barnes, and Emma Shackleton
Since ancient times people have depended on medical practitioners to enhance life, to treat illness and injuries, and to help reduce pain and suffering. The scientifically based discipline that we know today stands beside diverse traditions, belief systems, and bodies of medical knowledge that have evolved in fascinating ways across cultures and continents. Throughout this history, successive generations have created artistic representations of these varied aspects of medicine, illustrating instruction manuals, documenting treatments, and creating works of art that enable individuals to express their feelings and ideas about medicine, health, and illness. From ancient wall paintings and tomb carvings to sculpture, installations, and digitally created artworks, the results are extraordinary and pay tribute to how medicine has affected our lives and the lives of our ancestors.
Ted Schwarz
Freedom of speech and freedom of the press are guaranteed by the First Amendment. But how are these freedoms to be exercised? How are we to regulate the content of television, the press, movies, music lyrics, art - and now the Internet and the World Wide Web? Whose standards prevail? Whose ethics? Drawing on an astonishing array of famous and infamous examples - from the Washington Post to Geraldo!, from gangsta rap to Barney - to reveal highlights and lowlights in the checkered history of the media, bestselling author Ted Schwarz brings remarkable insight and clarity to this increasingly volatile debate. He probes the hidden practices of contemporary media moguls, the dubious tactics of news gathering and delivery, the soul of televangelism, the decades-long controversy over music lyrics, and the emerging dilemmas of digital communication.