This volume, published in honor of Professor Corrado Casci, celebrates the life of a very distinguished international figure devoted to sCientific study, research, teaching, and leadership. The numerous contributions of Corrado CasCi are widely admired by scientists and engineers around the globe. He has been an impressive model and outstanding colleague to many researchers. Unfortunately, only a few of them could be invited to contribute to this honorific volume. Everyone of the invited contributors responded with enthusiasm. v Corrado Casci Contents Preface. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . ....