Bifurcation Theory and Spatio-temporal Pattern Formation

Nonlinear dynamical systems and the formation of spatio-temporal patterns play an important role in current research on partial differential equations. This book contains articles on topics of current interest in applications of dynamical systems theory to problems of pattern formation in space and time. Topics covered include aspects of lattice dynamical systems, convection in fluid layers with large aspect ratios, mixed mode oscillations and canards, bacterial remediation of waste, gyroscopic systems, data clustering, and the second part of Hilbert's 16th problem. Most of the book consists of expository survey material, and so can serve as a source of convenient entry points to current research topics in nonlinear dynamics and pattern formation. This volume arose from a workshop held at the Fields Institute in December of 2003, honoring Professor William F. Langford's fundamental work on the occasion of his sixtieth birthday.