Python 3 and Data Analytics Pocket Primer. A Quick Guide to NumPy, Pandas, and Data Visualization

Mercury Learning and Information, Oswald Campesato

This book, part of the best-selling Pocket Primer series, introduces readers to the fundamental concepts of data analytics using Python 3. The course begins with a concise introduction to Python, covering essential programming constructs and data manipulation techniques. This foundation sets the stage for deeper dives into data analytics, emphasizing the importance of data cleaning, a critical step in any data analysis process.Following the Python basics, the course explores powerful libraries such as NumPy and Pandas for efficient data handling and manipulation. It then delves into statistical concepts, providing the necessary background for understanding data distributions and analytical methods. The course culminates in data visualization techniques using Matplotlib and Seaborn, demonstrating how to effectively communicate insights through graphical representations.Throughout the course, numerous code samples and practical examples are provided, reinforcing learning and offering hands-on experience. Companion files with source code and figures are available online, supporting the learning journey. This comprehensive guide equips both beginners and seasoned professionals with the skills needed to excel in data analytics.

Bash Command Line and Shell Scripts Pocket Primer. Mastering Bash Commands and Scripting Techniques

Mercury Learning and Information, Oswald Campesato

As part of the best-selling Pocket Primer series, this book introduces readers to useful command-line utilities for creating powerful shell scripts. It focuses on the “bash” command set, though many concepts apply to other command shells like sh, ksh, zsh, and csh. The book covers piping data between commands and using versatile sed and awk commands. Aimed at beginners, it also serves as a good reference for those with some experience in shell scripting.The journey starts with an introduction to bash, covering files and directories, useful commands, and conditional logic with loops. Readers then learn to filter data with grep, transform data with sed, and work with awk. The book introduces shell scripts, showcasing their use with grep and awk for data manipulation. Various scripts are provided for data scientists and analysts needing shell-based solutions for text file cleaning.Understanding these concepts is crucial for simplifying routine tasks and creating efficient shell scripts. This book transitions readers from novices to proficient scriptwriters, combining theoretical knowledge and practical skills. Companion files with source code examples enhance learning. By the end, readers will be equipped to implement shell scripts in real-world scenarios.

Finite Element Analysis. An Introductory Guide to FEM Techniques and Applications

Mercury Learning and Information, Sarhan M. Musa

This comprehensive guide explores the versatility and affordability of Finite Element Analysis (FEA) as a powerful tool for solving engineering problems. The book provides a practical introduction to FEA, covering applications in mechanical, civil, electrical engineering, and physics. It presents a balanced blend of theory and applications, catering to both beginners and those seeking to enhance their FEA skills.The journey begins with mathematical preliminaries and an introduction to the Finite Element Method. It progresses through various applications such as axially loaded members, trusses, beams, stress analysis, thermal analysis, fluid flow analysis, dynamic analysis, and engineering electromagnetics analysis. Each chapter includes comparisons of analytical methods, FEA hand calculations, and software-based solutions, helping readers understand the strengths and limitations of each approach.Understanding these concepts is crucial for effective problem-solving in engineering. This book transitions readers from fundamental principles to advanced engineering applications, blending theoretical knowledge with practical skills. Companion files with executable models and animations enhance the learning experience, making this guide an essential resource for mastering FEA techniques.

Database Security. Master the Art of Protecting Your Data with Cutting-Edge Techniques

Mercury Learning and Information, Christopher Diaz

This book provides a comprehensive guide to resolving database security issues during design, implementation, and production phases. It emphasizes specific measures and controls unique to database security, beyond general information security. Topics include account credential management, data access management, and techniques like database normalization, referential integrity, transactions, locks, and check constraints.The importance of database security lies in protecting sensitive data from unauthorized access and ensuring data integrity. This book is designed for professionals, workshops, and self-learners, offering hands-on demonstrations with major Database Management Systems (MySQL, Oracle, and Microsoft SQL Server) across various computing platforms (Linux/UNIX, MacOS, Windows).Starting with an introduction to information, data, and database security, the book covers database design, management, administration, user accounts, privileges, roles, and security controls for confidentiality. It also delves into transactions and data integrity with concurrent access. Each chapter includes questions and projects to reinforce learning and comprehension.

Python for Programmers. A Comprehensive Guide for Intermediate to Advanced Python Programmers and Developers

Mercury Learning and Information, Oswald Campesato

This book is designed for developers with little to no experience in Python or Pandas, providing a fast-paced introduction to Python programming and practical solutions to various tasks. The journey begins with a quick tour of basic Python 3, followed by a deep dive into loops and conditional logic. The text covers data structures extensively, and includes tasks involving strings and arrays.As the reader progresses, object-oriented programming concepts are introduced with illustrative code samples, along with an exploration of recursion and fundamental topics in combinatorics. An appendix provides an introduction to Pandas, equipping readers with essential tools for data manipulation and analysis.This book offers a comprehensive yet concise learning path, reinforced by numerous code samples and companion files available for download. It is an invaluable resource for beginners seeking to master Python and Pandas, providing a solid foundation for further exploration in programming and data science.

Make Amazing Games. Game Design and Development Using Fusion 2.5: From Basics to Advanced

Mercury Learning and Information, Jason Darby

This course is designed for aspiring game developers with no prior experience or programming knowledge. It provides a step-by-step guide through the game creation process using drag-and-drop game creation software available on Steam. The course begins with basic game design concepts and an introduction to the Fusion software, progressing through various stages of game development.Understanding game development is essential for those who want to turn their creative ideas into playable games. This course covers the creation of four fully playable games: a platform game, a bat-and-ball game, a mouse-clicker game, and a side-scrolling shoot-'em-up game. By completing these projects, users will gain practical experience and confidence in their game development skills.The journey continues with advanced features such as porting games to the web, debugging, and publishing. The companion files include game demos, graphic libraries, and source code, providing all the resources needed to successfully create and distribute your games. This comprehensive guide ensures that by the end of the course, you will have the knowledge and skills to create and publish your own games.

Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, and Deep Learning. A Practical Guide to Advanced AI Techniques

Mercury Learning and Information, Oswald Campesato

This book introduces AI, then explores machine learning, deep learning, natural language processing (NLP), and reinforcement learning. Readers learn about classifiers like logistic regression, k-NN, decision trees, random forests, and SVMs. It delves into deep learning architectures such as CNNs, RNNs, LSTMs, and autoencoders, with Keras-based code samples supplementing the theory.Starting with a foundational AI overview, the course progresses into machine learning, explaining classifiers and their applications. It continues with deep learning, focusing on architectures like CNNs and RNNs. Advanced topics include LSTMs and autoencoders, essential for modern AI. The book also covers NLP and reinforcement learning, emphasizing their importance.Understanding these concepts is vital for developing advanced AI systems. This book transitions you from beginner to proficient AI practitioner, combining theoretical knowledge and practical skills. Appendices on Keras, TensorFlow 2, and Pandas enrich the learning experience. By the end, readers will understand AI principles and be ready to apply them in real-world scenarios.

Fintech Fundamentals. Understanding Emerging Technologies and Their Impact on Modern Industries

Mercury Learning and Information, Len Mei

This book explores the digital technologies essential for building the new digital economy. It delves into concepts such as cloud and edge computing, 5G telecommunication, blockchain, big data, and AI, explaining how these technologies enable the digital economy. It also examines the impact of financial technology on both traditional and emerging industries, providing a comprehensive introduction for those interested in further research on these subjects.The course begins with an introduction to the digital economy, followed by detailed discussions on various foundational technologies. Topics such as cloud and edge computing, 5G, blockchain, and AI are covered, highlighting their roles in the digital economy. The book also addresses the transformation of financial services and the impact of fintech on various industries, offering a broad understanding of the current and future landscape.Designed for professionals and researchers, this book equips readers with the knowledge to understand and engage with the digital economy. It provides a solid foundation for further exploration, making it an essential resource for those looking to navigate and contribute to the evolving digital world.

AutoCAD 2025 Beginning and Intermediate. Master essential drafting techniques with AutoCAD 2025

Mercury Learning and Information, Munir Hamad

This book serves as a comprehensive introduction and guide to AutoCAD 2025. Whether you are starting from scratch or seeking to expand your existing knowledge, this resource provides practical skills and an in-depth understanding of essential drafting and design concepts. Its clear instructions and practical examples ensure an engaging learning experience.Covering everything from basic commands to advanced techniques, the book includes detailed chapters on layers, dimensions, plotting, and more. Explore the creation and manipulation of 2D and 3D objects, parametric constraints, and customization tools. With guidance on CAD standards, dynamic blocks, and external referencing, this book bridges the gap between foundational skills and professional-level proficiency.By the end of this journey, readers will have acquired the tools to design, draft, and model with confidence. Learn to optimize workflows, integrate CAD standards, and bring projects to completion effectively and efficiently.

Digital Signal Processing. An Introduction to Mastering Advanced Techniques for Transforming and Analyzing Signals

Mercury Learning and Information, R. Anand

This book covers the fundamental concepts of digital signal processing (DSP), introducing discrete-time signals, the z-transform, frequency analysis, discrete and fast Fourier transforms, digital filters, FIR, and statistical DSP. With applications ranging from engineering to telecommunications and medical imaging, this text focuses on representing signals with mathematical models and processing them using discrete-time systems.Understanding DSP is crucial for professionals in various fields as it allows for effective signal representation and manipulation. The book starts with an introduction to DSP and a review of discrete-time signals and systems, followed by a detailed exploration of the z-transform and frequency analysis using DTFT. It further delves into discrete Fourier transforms, fast Fourier transform algorithms, and the implementation of discrete-time systems.The journey continues with in-depth discussions on digital filters, including the design and analysis of infinite impulse response (IIR) and finite impulse response (FIR) filters. The book also covers statistical digital signal processing, multirate DSP, and applications in speech and radar. Through a variety of exercises and a comprehensive glossary, readers will gain a solid understanding of DSP fundamentals and applications.

SQL Pocket Primer. A Comprehensive Guide to SQL and MySQL for Data Professionals

Mercury Learning and Information, Oswald Campesato

As part of the best-selling Pocket Primer series, this book is designed for data scientists and machine learning engineers seeking to deepen their SQL knowledge using MySQL as the primary RDBMS. It features Python-based code samples for accessing data from MySQL tables in Pandas data frames and Java-based samples for data access in MySQL, along with handling XML and JSON documents.The book also introduces NoSQL, with an overview of MongoDB, and SQLite, an open-source RDBMS for mobile devices. The final section covers diverse topics like normalization, schemas, database optimization, and performance. This comprehensive approach ensures a well-rounded understanding of SQL and related technologies, enhancing data manipulation and database management skills.Numerous code samples and listings throughout the book support the various topics covered. Companion files with source code and figures are available from the publisher, making this an essential resource for advancing your SQL proficiency and database management expertise.

Natural Language Processing and Machine Learning for Developers. A Practical Guide to Advanced Techniques and Applications of NLP

Mercury Learning and Information, Oswald Campesato

This book introduces developers to basic concepts in NLP and machine learning, providing numerous code samples to support the topics covered. The journey begins with introductory material on NumPy and Pandas, essential for data manipulation. Following this, chapters delve into NLP concepts, algorithms, and toolkits, providing a solid foundation in natural language processing.As you progress, the book covers machine learning fundamentals and classifiers, demonstrating how these techniques are applied in NLP. Practical examples using TF2 and Keras illustrate how to implement various NLP tasks. Advanced topics include the Transformer architecture, BERT-based models, and the GPT family of models, showcasing the latest advancements in the field.The final chapters and appendices offer a comprehensive overview of related topics, including data and statistics, Python3, regular expressions, and data visualization with Matplotlib and Seaborn. Companion files with source code and figures ensure a hands-on learning experience. This book equips you with the knowledge and tools needed to excel in NLP and machine learning.

Mathematics for Business Analysis. Comprehensive Mathematical Techniques and Applications for Business

Mercury Learning and Information, Paul Turner, Justine Wood

This book is designed for students, faculty, and professionals, describing the role of mathematics in economics and business. Starting with the basics of numbers and advancing into complex topics like hyperreal numbers and set theory, the book builds a strong foundation of mathematical concepts. Python code is used throughout to illustrate problems numerically, making the material accessible and practical.Readers will learn about linear simultaneous equations for market equilibrium analysis and the mechanics of matrices for solving larger systems. The book covers calculus, with applications in economics, including profit maximization and factor optimization, and introduces infinitesimal methods. Chapters on differential and difference equations reveal their importance in analyzing dynamic systems, all illuminated through practical examples and images from economics and business.The course begins with fundamental mathematical concepts, advancing to complex applications in economics and business. By integrating computational understanding with Python code, the book ensures learners can tackle real-world problems. This structured approach provides the tools needed for economic analysis and business decision-making, making it an invaluable resource for anyone in these fields.

Natural Language Processing Fundamentals for Developers. A Practical Guide to Building NLP Applications

Mercury Learning and Information, Oswald Campesato

This book is for developers seeking an overview of basic concepts in Natural Language Processing (NLP). It caters to those with varied technical backgrounds, offering numerous code samples and listings to illustrate the wide range of topics covered. The journey begins with managing data relevant to NLP, followed by two chapters on fundamental NLP concepts. This foundation is reinforced with Python code samples that bring these concepts to life.The book then delves into practical NLP applications, such as sentiment analysis, recommender systems, COVID-19 analysis, spam detection, and chatbots. These examples provide real-world context and demonstrate how NLP techniques can be applied to solve common problems. The final chapter introduces advanced topics, including the Transformer architecture, BERT-based models, and the GPT family, highlighting the latest state-of-the-art developments in the field.Appendices offer additional resources, including Python code samples on regular expressions and probability/statistical concepts, ensuring a well-rounded understanding. Companion files with source code and figures enhance the learning experience, making this book a comprehensive guide for mastering NLP techniques and applications.

The AI Marketing Playbook. Mastering the Latest AI Tools and Techniques for Next-Gen Marketing Success

Mercury Learning and Information, Mark Lamplugh

This book offers a comprehensive guide to integrating AI into modern marketing strategies, transforming how businesses engage with audiences. It begins with an overview of AI’s role in marketing, its evolution, and its benefits in driving innovation. Early chapters cover foundational topics like AI, machine learning, and data preparation for effective AI implementation.The book then explores practical applications, such as analyzing customer behavior for personalized experiences and using AI-powered chatbots for improved customer service. You’ll learn to apply image and video recognition for visual marketing and leverage AI for social media strategies that boost engagement. The book also covers predictive analytics, AI-driven email marketing, and techniques to optimize SEO and content marketing.Further chapters focus on automating marketing processes and using AI to support sales enablement with actionable insights. The final chapter discusses ethical considerations and the future of AI in marketing, emphasizing the balance between automation and human creativity. This book equips marketing professionals and business leaders with the tools to harness AI’s potential for impactful marketing strategies.

AI Horizons. Shaping a Better Future Through Responsible Innovation and Human Collaboration

Mercury Learning and Information, Enamul Haque

As artificial intelligence continues to reshape industries and societies, understanding its broader implications is crucial. AI Horizons offers an in-depth exploration of the ethical challenges and social consequences associated with AI, such as privacy, bias, and the digital divide. The book underscores the importance of transparency, fairness, and accountability, stressing the need for a responsible approach to AI development.The book further examines how AI is being adopted across various sectors, including healthcare, education, and finance, providing real-world case studies that highlight its transformative power. However, it also considers the unique challenges emerging markets face and the potential of AI to address critical global issues like poverty and climate change.AI Horizons advocates for a collaborative partnership between humans and AI, promoting human-centric design and governance frameworks to ensure that AI enhances human intelligence rather than replacing it. Through a balanced approach, the book calls for informed dialogue, public literacy in AI, and robust policies to guide AI's development responsibly and equitably.

Computational Physics. A Comprehensive Guide to Numerical Methods in Physics

Mercury Learning and Information, Darren Walker

This updated edition introduces computational physics for performing experiments on the computer. It provides a grounding in scientific programming with examples in the context of physics problems. Using C++ as the primary language, it covers interpolation, integration, and solving differential equations, from simple concepts to advanced topics. The book includes a chapter on high-performance computing and parallel programming.Understanding computational physics is crucial for data manipulation and real-world simulations. The book starts with introductory topics and progresses to advanced material, including a C++ library and sample programs. Readers will learn problem-solving methods and constructing models.This journey equips readers with skills for scientific tasks, demonstrating efficient problem-solving and model construction. The practical approach ensures users can apply these concepts in real-world scenarios, making it an essential resource for those interested in computational physics.

TensorFlow 2 Pocket Primer. A Quick Reference Guide for TensorFlow 2 Developers

Mercury Learning and Information, Oswald Campesato

As part of the best-selling *Pocket Primer* series, this book introduces beginners to basic machine learning algorithms using TensorFlow 2. It provides a fast-paced introduction to TensorFlow, covering core features and machine learning basics with Python code samples. An appendix includes Keras-based code samples and explores MLPs, CNNs, RNNs, and LSTMs. The chapters illustrate how to solve various tasks, encouraging further reading to deepen your knowledge.The journey begins with an introduction to TensorFlow 2, followed by essential APIs and datasets. You'll explore linear regression and classifiers, learning to apply TensorFlow to practical problems. The comprehensive appendix covers advanced topics like NLPs and deep learning architectures, enhancing your understanding of machine learning.Understanding these concepts is crucial for modern AI applications. This book transitions readers from basic TensorFlow use to advanced machine learning techniques, blending theory with practical examples. Companion files with source code and figures enhance learning, making this an essential resource for mastering TensorFlow and machine learning.

Blockchain, Bitcoin, and the Digital Economy. Unlocking the Future of Financial Technology

Mercury Learning and Information, Len Mei

This book provides a comprehensive introduction to blockchain technology, discussing its fundamentals, development issues, potential applications, security, and use in cryptocurrency. It also delves into fintech, its current status, and related concepts in the digital economy. The rapidly changing nature of these topics makes the book a valuable resource for anyone interested in blockchain and cryptocurrency. Numerous references offer up-to-date information on these subjects.The course begins with an overview of blockchain and its basic concepts, followed by an in-depth look at Bitcoin and its associated issues. The journey continues with consensus mechanisms, exploring altcoins, and mutual distributed ledgers. The book then shifts focus to applications of blockchain beyond cryptocurrency, highlighting industrial uses, payment systems, and lending. Governance, regulation, and future trends in blockchain technology are also covered.Understanding these concepts is crucial for navigating the evolving landscape of blockchain and cryptocurrency. This book ensures a smooth transition from novice to knowledgeable enthusiast, equipping readers with practical insights and comprehensive knowledge. By the end, readers will grasp blockchain technology's impact on various industries and its potential for future innovations.

Game Development Using Python. Mastering Interactive Game Creation and Development through Python

Mercury Learning and Information, James R. Parker

This book guides you through the basic game development process using Python, covering essential topics such as graphics, sound, artificial intelligence, animation, and game engines. Real games are created as you progress through the text, and significant parts of a game engine are built and made available for download. New chapters on card games and a side-scroller are included. The companion files contain all the resources described in the book, including example code, game assets, video/sound editing software, and color figures.The course begins with an introduction to how games work, followed by in-depth chapters on graphics and images, the game loop, and game AI, specifically focusing on collision detection. It then moves on to navigation, control, and sound, guiding you through creating a jet boat race game. Advanced topics such as animation, networking, and platformers are covered, providing a comprehensive understanding of game development.Designed for both beginners and those with some experience, this book equips readers with the skills needed to develop their own games. It emphasizes practical application, ensuring you can implement what you learn. By the end of the course, you will have a solid foundation in game development and the ability to create engaging, interactive games using Python.

Java for Developers Pocket Primer. A Concise Guide to Mastering Java Programming

Mercury Learning and Information, Oswald Campesato

As part of the best-selling Pocket Primer series, this book offers a thorough introduction to Java development for beginners. It provides a fast-paced overview of core Java concepts and APIs, using Java 8 code samples. Companion files with source code are included.The journey begins with an introduction to Java, covering Boolean logic, Unicode, and user input. It progresses through methods, constructors, loops, arrays, and recursion. The course then delves into object-oriented programming (OOP) concepts and data structures. Advanced topics include streams, file handling, and integrating Java with SQL. The book also lists new features from Java 9 to Java 13.Understanding these concepts is crucial for developing efficient Java applications. This book transitions readers from basic to advanced Java programming, blending theoretical knowledge with practical skills. Companion files enhance the learning experience, making this book an essential resource for mastering Java development.

Large Language Models An Introduction. Understanding the Fundamentals and Applications of Generative AI

Mercury Learning and Information, Oswald Campesato

This book provides a comprehensive overview of large language models (LLMs) and generative AI, covering foundational principles, advanced concepts, and practical applications. It begins with an introduction to the generative AI landscape, examining key features, popular techniques, and its influence on industries like art, business, and technology. The book also explores prominent models like ChatGPT and GPT-4, detailing their architectures, capabilities, and applications in text generation, code assistance, and conversational AI.Additionally, the book traces the evolution of LLMs, particularly focusing on the BERT family and its wide-ranging applications in natural language processing, translation, and multilingual tasks. Readers will also gain expertise in prompt engineering, learning practical tips and examples to interact more effectively with LLMs.In later chapters, the book tackles advanced topics such as fine-tuning LLMs, working with SVG, and concepts like few-shot learning and reinforcement learning. It concludes with discussions on ethical issues, biases in generative AI, and emerging trends like AI’s integration with IoT, quantum computing, and neuromorphic computing. This guide equips professionals and enthusiasts with a thorough understanding of generative AI's present and future.

Data Analysis for Business Decisions. A Laboratory Manual

Mercury Learning and Information, Andres Fortino

This manual is for business analysts to enhance their statistical analysis skills, with case studies focusing mainly on Excel. It covers basic descriptive techniques, linear regression, forecasting, t-Test, chi-square, A/B testing, text data analysis, and Big Data management. Companion files include solution spreadsheets, sample files, and data sets.The course starts with data shaping and cleaning, installing the Analysis ToolPak, and descriptive statistics. It progresses through histograms, scatter plots, Pareto analysis, correlation, linear and multivariate regression, and forecasting. Advanced topics include inferential statistics, contingency analysis, and A/B testing. The final chapters cover text analytics, big data sets, and data visualization.These techniques are crucial for informed business decisions. This book guides users from basic to advanced analysis, blending theory with practical skills. Companion files enhance learning, making this manual essential for mastering statistical analysis in business.

Unmanned Aerial Vehicles. A Comprehensive Guide to UAV Technology and Applications

Mercury Learning and Information, P. K. Garg

This book offers a comprehensive overview of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), covering their basic concepts, components, and various applications. It delves into the different sensors used in UAVs, the architecture of autonomous UAVs, and the communication tools and devices required to acquire real-time data. The book also explores the software needed to analyze UAV data and the rules and regulations necessary for operating UAVs. The importance of UAV technology is highlighted through its diverse applications in fields such as construction, oil and gas, mining, agriculture, forestry, search and rescue, surveillance, transportation, disaster management, logistics, health, and journalism. The book underscores the potential of UAVs to revolutionize these industries by improving efficiency and safety.Throughout the book, readers will journey from understanding the theory, hardware, and software components of UAVs to exploring their practical uses. Each chapter includes review questions to reinforce understanding, ensuring that readers gain a solid grasp of the subject matter. This text is essential for anyone interested in the current and future impact of UAV technology.