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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.