Nonlinear waves: some biomedical applications

The field of nonlinear physics, item No. 11 on Ginzburg's list of “the most important and interesting problems”, is reviewed. An example at the intersection of applied physics, medicine, and instrument engineering is discussed to illustrate the range and scope of the field and how deep the ideas and approaches it involves are incorporated in modern natural science and engineering. Results of relevant research and development, which has attracted much recent interest and financial support, are briefly examined.