Book Description

This book evolved from an interdisciplinary graduate course entitled Molecular Modeling developed at New York University. Its primary goal is to stimulate excitement for molecular modeling research while introducing readers to the wide range of biomolecular problems being solved by computational techniques and to those computational tools. The book is intended for beginning graduate students in medical schools and scientific fields such as biology, chemistry, physics, mathematics, and computer science. Other scientists who wish to enter, or become familiar, with the field of biomolecular modeling and simulation may also benefit from the broad coverage of problems and approaches.

The book surveys three broad areas: biomolecular structure and modeling: current problems and state of computations; molecular mechanics: force field origin, composition, and evaluation techniques; and simulation methods: geometry optimization, Monte Carlo, and molecular dynamics approaches. Appendices featuring homework assignments, reading lists, and other information useful for teaching molecular modeling complement the material in the main text. Extensive use of world wide web resources is encouraged, and additional course and text information may be found on a supplementary website.

Some praise for Tamar Schlick's "Molecular Modeling and Simulation: An Interdisciplinary Guide":||"The interdisciplinary structural biology community has waited long for a book of this kind which provides an excellent introduction to molecular modeling."|-Harold A. Scheraga, Cornell University||"A uniquely valuable introduction to the modeling of biomolecular structure and dynamics. A rigorous and up-to-date treatment of the foundations, enlivened by engaging anecdotes and historical notes."|-J. Andrew McCammon, Howard Hughes Medical Institute, University of California at San Diego||"I am often asked by physicists, mathematicians and engineers to recommend a book that would be useful to get them started in computational molecular biology. I am also often approached by my colleagues in computational biology to recommend a solid textbook for a graduate course in the area. Tamar Schlick has written the book that I will be recommending to both groups. Tamar has done an amazing job in writing a book that is both suitably accessible for beginners, and suitably rigorous for experts."|-J.J. Collins, Boston University

FROM THE REVIEWS:

BIOTECH INTERNATIONAL [BTI]: " . . . The text emphasises that the field is changing very rapidly and that it is full of exciting discoveries. Many of these findings have lead to medical and technological breakthroughs. This book stimulates this excitement, while still providing students many computational details . . . It should appeal to beginning graduate students in medical schools, and in many scientific departments such as biology, chemistry, physics, mathematics, and computer science. ... Read more

Reviews (10)

Excellent book for both students and researchers
This book covers state-of-arts technologies used in today's hot field: molecular modeling. The book is easy to understand and it is suitable for graduate students in both theoretic majors and experimental majors. The homeworks in the book are practical for students to learn basic molecular modeling computer skills very fast.

Dr. Schlick is an expert in this field and her group has published tons of molecular modeling research papers. Her expertise also makes this book valuable for computational scientific researchers. I highly recommend it.

A long expected book in molecular modeling is finally here
I highly recommend Professor T. Schlick's book. It is beautifully written with many examples and great illustrations. The book is truly interdisciplinary; it covers, in good depth, both the biological and mathematical aspects of computational structural biology. Most chapters start with an amenable introduction and finish with "hands-on" recommendations and future challenges. I was particularly pleased with the level of detail in each chapter (in particular those that show the reader the advantages and pitfalls of the different methods presented). My colleague Mariel Vazquez and I used this book in the design and preparation of our "Special topics in Mathematics" course at the UC Berkeley Mathematics Department during the Spring of 2003.

This upper-level undergraduate/lower-level graduate course was centered on mathematical and computational models of the three dimensional structure of DNA, and DNA topology. We found Professor T. Schlick's book very useful in our class preparation. In particular we covered chapter 5 (DNA structure) completely, sections 3 and 4 from chapter 7 (basic principles and formulation of atomic interactions in molecular mechanics), and several sections or subsections from chapters 8 and 9 (force terms used in molecular dynamics simulations). We also covered most of the material in chapter 10 (Multivariate Minimization), and gave a brief introduction to chapter 11 (Monte-Carlo techniques) and chapter 12 (Molecular Dynamics algorithms).

Chapter 5 starts with a very amenable and brief introduction that relates DNA with other biological processes and describes some of the challenges in studying DNA structure. It continues describing the basic building blocks of DNA. The author wisely spends some time defining the nomenclature for each of the atoms, angles and bonds that form these basic blocks. The following sections teach the reader what parameters are relevant for describing a DNA double helix and how they characterize the A, B and Z- forms of DNA. Illustrations in this chapter are particularly helpful.

Although our course's approach to DNA supercoiling was different that the one in the book I found particularly useful some illustrations in chapter 6 and movies (to be found in her webpage) that Prof. Schlick's group has developed over the years. In brief, chapter 6 is a study of more complex structures and behavior of DNA (such as structural role of the DNA sequence, DNA-protein interactions, and higher order organization of DNA -i.e. DNA supercoiling and histone-DNA interactions). This chapter can be a good source for short research projects (e.g. final projects).

Chapters 7, 8 and 9 describe the basic concepts in molecular mechanics. From sections 7.3 and 7.4 I found of interest how the author addresses the problem of the system size (i.e. number of interacting molecules) and some of the details that the author gives for modeling the geometry of atomic interactions. At the end of the chapter (section 7.4.3) interested readers can find some of the limitations of current approaches. Chapters 8 and 9 describe in depth the force fields and how to implement them. Chapter 9 also illustrates with clarity how to implement periodic boundary conditions and the advantages of using different lattice models.

Chapter 10 describes a number of familiar methods for energy minimization (i.e. steepest descent, conjugate gradient, etc....). We used sections 10.1 to 10.4 and section 10.5.2 (conjugate gradient). I found the Hessian patterns shown in figures 10.4 and 10.5 and the minimization trajectories shown in 10.10 very pedagogical. As in previous chapters the author finishes with practical recommendations and future challenges.

We left chapter 11 (Monte Carlo methods) for last in the course and discussed chapter 12 (molecular dynamics) first. As in previous chapters the author gives a very nice introduction (section 12.1 and 12.2) and covers the basics on simulation protocols in sections 12.3 and 12.4. Section 12.4 describes the basic integration algorithms such as leap-frog, verlet, etc... Figure 12.3 was revealing for the students as it compares the time scales in biological systems.

Chapter 11 (Monte-Carlo methods) provides a very comprehensive introduction to Monte-Carlo methods. We found particularly useful some of the subsections of random number generation and the treatment of Importance sampling and Markov chains in section 11.5.

As mentioned earlier we were particularly delighted with the amount of details given in each topic. For example chapters 7 and 8 provide all the formalism needed for the problems of molecular mechanics. In section 8.4 (bond angle potential) the author highlights the differences (both formally and by figures-see figure 8.4) between different formulations of the problem (see also figure 8.6). In Chapter 10 the author describes minimization algorithms in detail and shows some of the patterns that one observes in the Hessian associated to minimization functions of biological structures (see figs. 10.4, 10.5 and 10.11). She also makes very detailed comparisons between the different minimization methods (see figs 10. 2, 10.10). In chapter 12 she compares the different methods and initial conditions for the algorithms discussed (figs 12.3, 12.4, 12.6).

Overall we found that Prof. T. Schlick's book is very adequate for a broad spectrum of levels and very accessible to both graduate and undergraduate students interested in mathematical modeling and computational biology. It is also very well organized facilitating the option of selecting parts of the material for the classroom or for use in one's research.

Outstanding introduction
... not only to molecular modeling, but to some of the subtleties of DNA and protein behavior and geometry, too.

This book's focus is generally on interactions with large molecules, DNA and proteins, although it does discuss small molecules (drugs, a few dozen to a few hundred atoms) too. That means that it skips most of the quantum mechanical modeling of more advanced computational chemistry texts.

Nothing is lost, because Schlick covers her chosen topic (molecular modeling and dynamics) in such detail. She starts with a very clear discussion of the structure of large biomolecules, with emphasis on the features that need quantitative description for modeling. That covers protein structure at ever level. It also covers DNA/RNA structure in the best detail I've ever seen. The double-helix is the just the starting point. There are alternative helix forms, non-standard binding between nucleotides, and asymmetries caused by nucleotide composition. The next chapters describe the geometric model and, briefly, the forces acting between atoms.

The second half of the book gets down to the nuts and bolts of modeling. This includes numerical techniques, minimization, sampling and Monte Carlo techniques, and the start of dynamics. Schlick attacks some of the nasty points of the calculations, such as modeling of forces that act on very different time scales. As with the simpler material, the development is clear, descriptive, and free of pointless theorems. The meticulous reader should come away able to implement most or all of the techniques described. The level of presentation is consistent and approachable. I think freshman physics should be enough preparation for most students to get most of the value out of the discussion.

The book is written with clarity as a top priority. The glossary is in the front, making sure that the reader knows it's a first-class part of the text. After that, every chapter starts with a list of the mathematical symbols and variables used and a one-line description of each. These are small things, but they increase the book's readability immensely. The illustrations are generally informative enough. On the whole, though, they don't seem quite up to the level of the textual and mathematical presentations.

I needed a crash course in the mathematical techniques used for describing molecular structure and behavior. I should have read this book first - its clarity and thoroughness would have saved me a lot of time. After this one, I can now go back and reread the more complex texts with more hops of understanding. Do yourself a favor and read this one first.

Beautifully written!
As a person with no expertise in molecular modeling who wanted to learn about this field, this book is right on! I find the author's lively text to be as well-written and clear as any science textbook I have ever read. I especially enjoyed the first two chapters for their historical perspective and their practical illustrations of applications of genetics in the world today. These chapters can be understood by non-scientists, whereas the rest of the book is clearly designed for graduate students in any one of the science disciplines.

The interesting information sprinkled throughout the book, including the boxes and figures, help keep the reader stimulated and yearning for greater knowledge of this exciting field. The color graphics also complement the book nicely. Although the subject covered in the book is extremely broad, the author managed to convey the perspectives of multiple scientific disciplines (e.g., biology, chemistry, computer science, math) very well. The combination of breadth and depth in a readable style is remarkable.

Overall, I highly recommend this book to readers interested in the area.

Never short of something exciting
It contains many many exiting problems and stimulate to go through the world of art of biology and mathematics. This book can guide the way where to go when you lost in the world of biomathematics, specifically molecular modeling. It looks like a well-organized dictionary with analysis. So it is good for a beginner and also deep-thinker in computational biology field. ... Read more

Book Description

If you’ve been diagnosed with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) or suspect you have it, and you’re looking for a way to manage your condition, you’ve come to the right place. In The New Glucose Revolution Guide to Living Well with PCOS, Dr. Jennie Brand-Miller--author of the New York Times bestseller The New Glucose Revolution, the authoritative guide to the glycemic index--along with Dr. Nadir Farid and Kate Marsh, address the root cause of PCOS--insulin resistance--and show you how eating a low-GI diet can help alleviate even your most troublesome symptoms, including:

Weight gain
Unsightly hair growth
Irregular cycles
Fatigue
Infertility
Hypoglycemia
Acne
Mood swings

Filled with indispensable advice on switching to the low-GI diet, incorporating exercise into your lifestyle, and preserving your overall health and well-being, as well as thirty delicious recipes, The New Glucose Revolution Guide to Living Well with PCOS will help you beat your PCOS symptoms and take back control over your life. ... Read more

Book Description

The application of computational methods to DNA and protein science is a new and exciting development in biology. Bioinformatics: Sequence and Genome Analysis is a comprehensive introduction to this emerging field of study. The book has many unique and valuable features:

It is written for any biologist who wants to understand methods of sequence and structure analysis and how the necessary computer programs work

Sequence alignment, structure prediction, phylogenetic and gene prediction, database searching, and genome analysis are clearly explained and amply illustrated

Underlying algorithms and assumptions are clearly explained for the non-specialist

Examples are presented in simple numerical terms rather than complex formulas and notation

Theoretical underpinnings are linked to biological problems and their solutions

Extensive tables provide descriptions and Web sources for a broad range of publicly available software

Based on the author's extensive experience as a molecular geneticist and bioinformaticist at the University of Arizona, this is a uniquely educational book, ideal as a laboratory reference for investigators and also as teaching reference for graduate and undergraduate students studying this fast-changing discipline. ... Read more

Reviews (14)

good for computational biologist
If you are a biologist and just want to know some background information of how to apply bioinformatics to your research, do not read this book. My recommendation for you is "developing bioinformatics computer skills" and some other books like that.
If you are a student or scientist who study bioinformatics, this book is an excellent book and really worthy to read. This books gives very detailed information on algorithm to help us understand how the software such as BLAST and FASTA are designed. The illustrations are easy to understand compared with other books I have read, especially for the statistics part of any algorithm.
One weak point is that the book focus on nucleic acid sequence analysis while talk little about protein.

Horrible. A lot better books should be available nowadays
In short, the author does not have enough writing skill to write this text book.

I purchased this book a while ago. At that time, the book was really difficult to read. I thought that it is because I do not have enough knowledge to understand the material. So I stopped reading this book and studied bioinformatics by other means.

After gaining enough knowledge in bioinformatics, I re-opened this book, and it is funny to find that I still have the same amount of difficulty in understanding what the author wrote about topics that I have already built good understanding. Reading this book will only deteriorate one's understanding.

Several years ago, only just a few books were available on the market, so one needed to purchase this book. These days, there are lots of varieties to choose, and any choice is likely to be better than this book.

Horrible
While this book may, and I stress the word may, contain useful information, it is so badly written that it is incomprehensible. Dr. Mount seems to believe that ten words are better than one, making "Bioinformatics" very tedious to read. After awhile I felt like I was reading a Victorian novel.
Despite being wordy, the explanations are too brief and not clear. If you don't know what he is talking about before hand, you will never understand what he is explaining. He uses an excess of words, and rarely provides a clear, concise example of what he is referring to (or if he does it is in another chapter in the book).
It also appears that the book was never edited. For example, when trying to define "ortholog" and "homolog," he writes two opposing definitions for ortholog and none for homolog. Clearly this is a mistake and Dr. Mount accidentally used the word ortholog twice while meaning to use ortholog once and homolog the other time (pg 56). While it can be argued that this mistake is unimportant and the reader can look up the definitions, it makes me wonder what else in the book is wrong that I have no way of detecting (until I waste a bunch of time doing something incorrectly).

Strong foundation builder
This book will give you very strong foundations in
the basics of computation in the bio world. Though
this book does not give details of the computation
methods, it does give a very clear picture of math-
ematics and the science involved.

This book has a good coverage of FASTA and
BLAST. (Though a little bit short)

The programming techniques coverd are bare. Though
concepts like searching sequences using dynamic p-
rogramming are covered, you are better off reading
something like Proteome Research by wilkins et al.

I am yet to find a good book that deals only with
the technical and programming aspects of bio informatics
if you do find some thing interesting lemme know.

On the whole this book helped me understand a lot
about sequencing, alignment and prediction. The illustrations
and pictures provided are good and the text to the point.

If you are reading this review pls understand that I am
primarily a programmer trying to get into the
bio informatics business. I do not have any schooling
or degree or even experience in the bio informatics world.

Hope this helps

Santy

whatever
Decent qualitative overview. Some discussions of algorithms are so superficial that they are misleading. Slick presentation. Used at Stanford's intro to methods course - a good recommendation.

So far, the best there is for a survey course - but for depth and accuracy in sequence analysis algorithms, go to Durbin et al or Gussfield. ... Read more

Book Description

This practical, step-by-step guide to operating a small farm in the newmillennium examines 20 alternative farming enterprises. Readers will learn how to target niche markets and sustain a farm's biological and economic health. ... Read more

Reviews (10)

Being a Farmer does not mean living in Poverty
I enjoyed Mr. Macher book. His realistic examples and stories on how to get started have convinced me to leave writing software and become a business man who's products are farm products.

The appendicies are great with current information about where to get more information.

His true stories boxes let you know that he understands what beginging farms needed in the way of encouragement and information to help them make the decision to farm.

He is correct when he writes "to survive as a farmer you must have a market before you start to grow and you must provide a quality product with even better customer service."

Worth the money and a pleasant read for anyone thinking about starting a business or farming.

Wisdom from an Expert!
Ron Macher KNOWS what he's talking about! He publishes a great magazine called Small Farm Today (if you don't subscribe, you should!) that's literally packed with PRACTICAL information in every issue. If you're considering a career change to sustainable agriculture or small farming, you need to start your research with this book (and subscribe to Small Farm Today).

A Wise Investment for the Inquisitive, Curious Beginner
First, let me begin by saying what this book is not. This book gives zero advice to practicing small or large farmers on how to turn a profit. This book is not a how-to guide for those starting out. Nor is it a step-by-step method on how to get rich by working the land. If that were the case, then every small farmer in America would have read the book and gotten wealthy, instead of banks and other creditors foreclosing on family farms and putting them on the auctioning block.

Now, let me elaborate on what this book really is. This book is a very polite warning by two very seasoned, jaded individuals who are aware of the escapist notions and romantic fantasies many people have about farming. They have been around long enough to have become intimately familiar with the Back to the Land Movement, a Return to Simplicity, and Environmental Sustainability/Sustainable Agriculture- aka The New Improved Agriculture. It took me a while to realize this (three readings in fact!) and understand the dangers associated with one pernicious stereotype about farming.

Many of us on the sidelines believe that anyone can farm, and all it takes is a willingness to work hard (the trite saying about hard-working ditch diggers getting rich comes readily to mind). When we think of the farmer, we often have one (malicious) stereotype in mind- that of the dumb country boy with a 'gee aw shucks' outlook on farming and life. Basically, we really do not think it takes brains in order to farm successfully. I mean, after all, you take some seeds, toss in a little fertilizer of your choice, water them and come back in a few months to collect your crop and get your pesos (almost literally)- just how hard could that be?

Well, speaking as someone who is thoroughly new to farming, never once has farmed, and is inquisitive about the practice of agriculture, after considerable investigation I can tell you the prospective reader that no matter how hard they work, dumb people will not be able to stay on the farm for long. We on the sidelines do not think farming is difficult because we do not think about the Practice of Farming and the Business of Farming. If your experience of farming up to this point is shopping at your local natural foods co-op, perusing the stalls at the local weekly farmer's market, or wandering the aisles at some trendy, eco-hip retailer like Whole Foods or Wilds Oats (who have skillfully co-opted environmentalism as a path to insane riches), and you are considering going into farming as a vocation, then I do not think you will hear the polite warning contained in this book. If you are someone stuck in a dead-end or high-paying but otherwise unfulfilling career (like this reviewer), and you are seeking an out, a means of escape (what we politely but laughingly call a 'transition'), then you just might catch the polite warning consistently stated throughout this book.

Farming attracts many people not because of its business or financial aspects but because of the lifestyle many people associate with farming. If you are an MD, then you are in the business of healthcare. Your business and your lifestyle are completely different. In fact, whether your business is highly successful or modestly successful, your lifestyle could be lavish, it could be modest, or it could be parsimonious- it's up to you and your personal preferences. If you don't like your current situation, from where you work, to who you work for (read HMOs) to your clientele base, you can make a change without changing your lifestyle- too much that is.

Now here is the polite warning: if you are drawn to farming because of the lifestyle, and you turn this lifestyle into a business, then it behooves you to make damn certain that your business can pay for itself, because after all, your business is your lifestyle and your lifestyle is your business. The lifestyle will not work out if the business end does not pay. In fact, the business end may place quite severe limitations on the lifestyle you can reasonably expect to achieve, which in many cases will be well below what you are currently accustomed to. Unlike a 9 to 5 gig with some godless multinational, you can not simply just pack up and leave (this assumes implicitly that the heartless .......... have not fired you in the latest round of restructurings), and if the business end does not work out, you lose not only your lifestyle, but also your home.

For me, the true heart of the book and the real message of the text were contained in the Foreword by Budd Kerr Jr and Part I- Getting Started. In terms of content, the book contains little on the techniques of farming, and has eleven chapters divided into four parts- Getting Started, Farming, Planning and Marketing, and Management, with a handy appendix chock full of useful resources on the Business and Practice of Farming. The text is specifically pitched at a level that almost anyone can understand, and there is a noticeable bias towards the environmentally minded reader.

That said, the true purpose of this book is to get you, the prospective reader who may be thinking of getting into farming, to start thinking about the Practice of Farming and the Business of Farming, all romanticism and eco-hip verbiage aside. This book is of no use to someone who is already farming, and in need of help. The best time to read this book is before you get into farming whole hog as they say down on the farm.

Even though it took me three passes to finally get the message, I am glad that I did read it before taking any action.

Read this book several times BEFORE you venture into farming, not during or after.

Where's the beef?
I kept reading and reading looking for the exciting practical information promised by all these reviews. Then the book ended. Then I looked back at the reviews to see what I'd missed that (mis)lead me to believe there was practical information in it. They use words like 'overview' to indicate that there ain't much in the way of real meat in this book. I can sum it up in one sentence: Find yourself a niche market locally and grow what they want. If you need details about producing the product, this is not the book you're looking for.

For extensive, detailed, practical information about making money by pasturing mixed species of livestock, look at books by Joel Salatin. But even he could still bring in more complementary planting for winter forage. Greg Judy has a detailed book about making money with livestock without owning the land or the livestock.

A good book for the really, really small farmer.
The author has written a good beginning reference guide for the small farmer. Just be aware that by small, he means very small scale. So, if the reader is contemplating part-time farming on 80 or 160 acres, this is a really great book. If the reader is involved in larger-scale operations, the excellent niche advice in this book won't likely do the trick. This isn't really a fault of the book, one just needs to know for whom it's written.

The best advice in the book is that small farmers should have a business plan that will allow a farm to be financially viable. Forget stockmarket-like returns, farming is a tough business. Stand alone cash flows from land investment rarely are greater than maybe three-to-five percent at best. Most successful operations leverage equipment investment by tenant farming or land leasing in order to make a decent return. Passive land investment is even less lucractive.

And, smaller owner/operators and part-timers have it harder still. The author offers a few excellent ideas that may help the really small farmer make a go of it.

This exercise in making a business plan is a very practical reality check, that will make aspirant farmers go into the business with their eyes open.

--Jeff ... Read more

Book Description

A definitive how-to book for every practitoner of sports turf -- from football to baseball to soccer and everything in between. Sports Fields covers every important aspect of planning, design, construction, and turfgrass maintenance with hundreds of illustrations and step-by-step procedures to help you get the job done right -- first time, every time. No other book provides such intricate detail, combined with easy-to-understand guidance. ... Read more

Book Description

Unique in focus and cutting-edge in content, this lavishly illustrated introduction to animal science covers the full range of topics—traditional and non-traditional—that reflect the way agriculture is changing today. By exploring animal science from a variety of integrated perspectives—biological, species, industry, society, and global—it reveals the dynamic nature of animal science and the many ways in which it is a piece of a much larger whole of agriculture and agriculture within society (e.g., how animals fit into all of society and how animals contribute to the well-being of man from a worldwide perspective).The Value of Animals to Mankind. Factors Affecting World Agricultural Structure. Worldwide Systems of Agricultural Production. Introduction to Nutrition. The Gastrointestinal Tract and Nutrition. Feedstuffs Classification. Genetics. Animal Breeding. Biotechnology and Genetic Engineering. Animal Reproduction. Lactation. Animal Behavior. Animal Health. Vertical Integration: Beef, Pork and Poultry. Beef Cattle. Dairy Cattle. Poultry. Swine. Sheep and Goats. Horses. Aquaculture. Pet and Companion Animals. Llamoids. Rabbits. Careers and Career Preparation in Animal Science. Animals as Consumers of Grain: Asset or Liability? Food Safety and Consumer Concerns. Animal Welfare and Animal Rights. Animals in Sustainable Agriculture. ... Read more

Book Description

The classic home cheese making primer has been updated and revised to reflect the increased interest in artisanal-quality cheeses and the availability of cheese making supplies and equipment.

Here are 85 recipes for cheeses and other dairy products that require basic cheese making techniques and the freshest of ingredients, offering the satisfaction of turning out a coveted delicacy. Among the step-by-step tested recipes for cheese varieties are farmhouse cheddar, gouda, fromage blanc, queso blanco, marscarpone, ricotta, and 30-minute mozzarella. Recipes for dairy products include crème fraíche, sour cream, yogurt, keifer, buttermilk, and clotted cream. There are also 60 recipes for cooking with cheese, including such treats as Ricotta Pancakes with Banana Pecan Syrup, Cream Cheese Muffins, Broiled Pears and Vermont Shepherd Cheese, Prosciutto and Cheese Calzones, and Grilled Vegetable Stacks with Roasted Red Pepper Sauce. Profiles of home cheese makers and artisan cheese makers scattered throughout the text share the stories of people who love to make and eat good cheese. Plus information on how to enjoy homemade cheeses, how to serve a cheese course at home, cheese tips, lore, quotes, cheese making glossary, and more. ... Read more

Reviews (7)

Disapointing
Now that I can finally make a decent cheese I'm amazed at how the instructions are confusing and at times missing necessary information. (E.g. how much mold to add to the milk). I feel like my lack of early success due to relying on this book almost put me off from cheesemaking altogether. She never gives a good overall picture of how things should look or feel. (...)

I think is a wonderful book
I am very disapointed to read a negative comment about this book of Ricki Carroll, because being myself a dairy microbiologist and working everyday with cheeses, as Mrs. Carroll, I really find her book a great reference for anyone who wants to start making cheese from home from the very begining, or even for proffesionals to clarify some general concepts. You will find in this book good and precise explanations about a difficult topic, not always easy to explain, what she masters well. Is an affordable book for anyone interested in making our own cheese.

One of life's greatest pleasures
I have read this book very carefully from cover to cover and find the information very accurate and easy to follow. It takes you in a very easy step by step manner through this most ancient art. Start small by trying the easiest recipes and making the cheeses you like and then as you start to become better, you can slowly try your own little variations.

Using this book, I have made Cheddars, Goudas and even Blue cheese that has won my Bed and Breakfast quite a reputation.

Find out a little bit about the cheeses I make by visiting
www.geocities.com/cinnabarfarm

Very confusing, but nice recipes.
Quite a few recipes, many good, but as a prior reviewer stated, this book is confusing, especially with the hard cheeses. If you have never done this before, try a beginner's book like the one by Shane Sokol. That one has fewer recipes, but is wonderful for the beginner.

Not worth it at all
This book is so impractical, I'm very glad I didn't pay for it. A very essential part of making hard cheese is a means to provide pressure, a press. This author refers to the use of different pounds of pressure, but gives little or no advice on how to achieve that pressure. For instance, she'll say, "20 pounds of pressure for 30 minutes". How??

There is a primitive diagram of a cheese press that involves the use of a tree stump, but no real directions. It's very frustrating. The recipes are OK, but I'm sure you could find similar recipes elsewhere. This book is a waste of time if you're just starting out. ... Read more

Book Description

Insects and other arthropods found at a death scene can provide corroborating evidence regarding both the time and place of death as well as possible antimortem and postmortem treatment of the victim. Nevertheless, most forensic investigators are not specially trained in entomology, and until now, no entomology reference has fully explored these subjects. Forensic Entomology: The Utility of Arthropods in Legal Investigations usurps this void, instructing even individuals without a background in entomology on what to search for when recovering entomological evidence at a crime scene. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

Missing a "key" point...
While this book does address a variety of necessary topics and its overall praise is well-deserved there is a gap, which means there is still a need for a textbook in forensic entomology.

For a book of this nature one would expect to be able to identify insects of forensic importance. The numerous color photos are nice to look at, but in most cases do not allow species determination at the adult level (don't even bother asking about immature idenitification!). Short species accounts are given, but much more valuable would have been the inclusion of keys (as in K. Smith's treatment of the European forensic fauna). Unfortunately this means that you have to buy another text in order to identify any specimens that you collect. You will likely have to go the Manual of Nearctic Diptera in order to identify genera of Calliphoridae, Muscidae, Phorids...

In summary, even if you buy this book you'll still need to consult a forensic entomologist and as such, I'd recommend dropping the words "Forensic Entomology" from the title. This book is written for those who do not have formal training in entomology or even a science background (i.e. arthropod, botantist, and invertebrate are all defined in the glossary).

For the authors I would highly recommend adding keys in order to increase the value of this work. Please, for the entomologists' sake place them in an appendix, but do include them. Another suggestion would be to expand the taxa covered in Table 9.1 (insect development times) and move it to the appendix. Thanks!

An Excellent Overview of Forensic Entomology
This work is extraordinarily useful to any death investigation professional. It provides an extensive overview of all aspects of forensic entomology with chapter contributions from the leading forensic entomologists in the United States and Canada. It is expertly written so that the investigator with no formal entomological training can easily understand the context of the book, while still on a level that other formally trained entomologists will find very useful. It is richly illustrated with over 150 color photos of insects of forensic importance. This allows investigators to immediately recognize forensic insects at the scene so that collection can be assured. This book is certain to become an invaluable reference for anyone in the field of forensic entomology, or those involved in the collection of entomological evidence from a death scene. It is a perfect complement to the other works published on the subject by K.G.V. Smith and E.P. Catts. ... Read more

Book Description

Translated from the French by Alan Spencer, this authoritative account by a highly respected and expert French enologist offers a complete survey of wine-making techniques and wine appreciation in easy to understand terms without complicated chemical formulae. Treats every aspect of wine science from both the theoretical and practical point of view. Provides the student or professional with the opportunity to solve problems which arise and guides them to the proper solutions. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

A work of true genius!
This book differed from any other winemaking reference I have encountered. While the text is aging and some of the information is therefore of questionable accuracy (eg: "open top fermenters are losing favor for red wine vinification"), I found these lapses to be mostly in the category of trends in practice and therefore obvious. These minor shortcomings are overwhelmed by the unique viewpoints of a man known rightfully as one of the wine worlds giants. There are brilliant insights into vinification and wine structure in this book that I have encountered nowhere else. Not in other texts, symposia, trade journals or conversations with great winemakers. If you are a professional or serious amateur winemaker, buy this book and read it. Then read it again. Thank you Monsieur Peynaud for this gift.

Knowing is one thing,Making another.
This work is easy to read for those involved in the industry.As a grapegrower whose grapes go to good wineries but,makes a ton or so of Cab sav each year for the family,this book is a great help.If my chemistry was better I could give it the extra star.Generally it provides answers to all of the questions that I ask.It is well served with a good index and this helps for quick guidance when needed.I think it helps me make better wine.

A Bible for the truly serious wine student
Peynaud's stature in the wine world is legendary. He trained a copule of generations of Bordeaux winemakers, and through his words you can gain insight into classic winemaking and classic beliefs of that major region. The book is highly technical--I ended up reading it twice, to understand it fully. But Peynaud is also a poet, and a philospher, and his language is beautiful. This is a book that you'll refer to for your lifetime--provided that you're really serious about understanding the principles and philosophies behind winemaking.

Thorough, "scientific" study of wine making
This classic by French oenologist Peynaud is dense and intellectual, chock full of charts and detailed descriptions of the chemical reactions that go into the making and aging of wine. Intended primarily for the serious, advanced wine fancier (or wine maker), it's rightly regarded as a classic ... Read more

Book Description

This is a book for everyone interested in photosynthesis. The algae are a fascinating group of photosynthetic organisms ranging from some of the largest organisms on our planet down to the microscopic. Much of their diversity rests on their wide-ranging photosynthetic systems. Yet despite an explosion in our knowledge over the last decade, there has been no single book devoted to detailed aspects of algal photosynthesis for over twenty-five years. This book introduces the reader to algal diversity as currently understood and then traces the photosynthetic structures and mechanisms that contribute so much to making the algae unique. Indeed the field is now so large that no one expert can hope to cover it all. The 19 articles are each written by experts in their area; ranging over all the essential aspects and making for a comprehensive coverage of the whole field. Important developments in molecular biology, especially transformation mutants in Chlamydomonas, are dealt with, as well as areas important to global climate change, carbon dioxide exchange, light harvesting, energy transduction, biotechnology and many others. The book is intended for use by graduate students and beginning researchers in the areas of molecular and cell biology, integrative biology, plant biology, biochemistry and biophysics, biotechnology, global ecology, and phycology. ... Read more

Book Description

"PCR: the basics" is the ideal practical introduction to PCR practices in the laboratory. By providing basic theory, background material and suggestions for suitable protocols, it enables a novice to become a proficient user of many PCR techniques. Coverage includes: * Experimental aspects * Analyzing and manipulating PCR products * Genome analysis * Gene cloning and manipulation * Gene expression and medical diagnosis "PCR: the basics" is invaluable for undergraduates, graduates, or experienced researchers who are about to undertake PCR for the first time. ... Read more

Reviews (4)

PCR for beginners: A must-have !
This book explains really good all the basics of the PCR.
For the beginning PhD student, or even before, all you need to know and even more is inside. Some applications are more complicated, but the book is never too difficult to understand.
A must-have!!

Great Book on PCR
This book is a great practical introduction to PCR. It truly does cover the full spectrum of PCR topics from background to benchtop (real-world) applications. It is very clearly written and easy to understand. I own about 10 books on basic and advanced PCR methods, and this one is by far the best. If you want a clear, concise, comprehensive introduction to PCR, this book is it.

PCR is Good
PCR by McPherson and Moeller, is a great great little book that addresses the practical and theoretical aspects of the polymerase chain reaction. The fundamental aspects of PCR, ranging from reagents and instrumentation, to PCR optimization, to the analysis of genomes, are outlined in each of 10 chapters with companion protocols for each application. Each technique is explained with clarity and numerous illustrations greatly aid in the understanding. I tried personally the "SOEing" method to generate a deletion mutants and it worked to perfection. Another great feature of this book is that it explains many of the potential pitfalls associated with PCR technology in a very comprehensive manner, and gives simple solutions to remedy these problems. PCR has been around for some 15 years, and the many applications of this revolutionary technique have often been overlooked due to the sheer number; PCR takes many of these new applications and makes them simple for the reader, and in that it constitutes one of the more comprehensive educational books on the subject. PCR will surely simplify the task of students and veteran molecular biologists alike, and for these reasons I highly recommend it.

Attention All Molecular Biologists
This book is ideal for both students and experienced researchers. In addition to covering the basic and theoretical aspects of PCR, the book also describes cutting-edge PCR methods and applications. It's nice to have such a comprehensive, up-to-date book on PCR. The clarity of the text made for enjoyable reading. This is a must for students and any molecular biology laboratory. Happy Reading! ... Read more

Book Description

Definitive, up-to-date coverage of nutrition

Nutrition for Foodservice and Culinary Professionals is the essential resource for the most complete, up-to-date information on nutrition and diet. New and expanded material in this Fifth Edition addresses such topics as biotechnology, vitamins, minerals, and organic foods. Many new tables and figures present a broader range of facts on the nutritional value of foods, as well as such timely material as "Food Practices of World Religions" and a "Reduced Calorie Menu for Asian-American Cuisine."

This new edition of Nutrition for Foodservice and Culinary Professionals features:

* New Dietary Reference Intakes for calories, carbohydrates, fats, proteins, and selected vitamins and minerals
* More "Chef's Tips" highlighting ways to incorporate nutritional knowledge into cooking and menus
* The Therapeutic Lifestyle Changes (TLC) Diet using the National Cholesterol Education Program 2001 clinical guidelines
* The 2002 American Cancer Society nutrition guidelines
* Up-to-date statistics on overweight and obesity in the United States and the latest information on weight loss, including drugs and surgery
* Updated Hot Topics, which discuss often controversial subjects related to nutrition, and expanded Nutrition Web Explorer activities

Nutrition for Foodservice and Culinary Professionals is used in certificate courses by the American Culinary Federation and the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation, and this Fifth Edition continues to be a bedrock resource for students and professionals in the foodservice industry. ... Read more

Reviews (2)

A great guide for nutrition.
Very knowledgable book on nutrition including information for children and older adults. As a culinary professional I wanted to read up on the latest nutrition especially on soy and to improve my diet. I am also considering taking some courses, one of them is Sanitation. The Study Guide for the National Servsafe Exam by Dr. Leonardi was a book I found also very knowledgable and I am certain that it will help me with my exam once I decide when to take it.

Exactly what I needed.
This book was exactly what I needed. It contains all the information I needed. A great learning tool. The part of the book I am most impressed with is the section of infant nutrition. It explains month by month what you can feed your infant. An example is the 4th month of life, you can start your child on iron enriched cereals. ... Read more

Book Description

Blackwell’s Underground Clinical Vignettes: Biochemistry, third edition is your primary source for clinically relevant, case-based material essential for Step 1 review.Each Clinical Vignette presents approximately 100 cases with over 1000 classic buzzwords in Hx, PE, lab, imaging, pathology and treatment.

The revised editions contain: · High-yield updates to nearly every case· Links to Basic Science and Clinical Science Color Atlas · New Cases on commonly tested USMLE topics ... Read more

Reviews (15)

Clinical case scenarios of OB/Gyn
This book gives you 53 major cases of Obstetrics and Gynecology as one of the Underground Clinical Vignettes series. Obviously, this book alone is not enough to prepare for USMLE Step 2, but the great thing about this book is that it really focus on the disease and keywords that actually appear in the exam (e.g. vaginitis, OCP, amenorrhea, eclampsia etc). You pick up this book, see any of the scenario and if you cannot guess the diagnosis by reading through the history and findings, or any of the highlighted keywords on the scenario is unfamiliar to you, you need to buy this book. If you can, forget about this series, and work on simulated tests.

Not useful
In my experience, this book was not helpful for Step 1 preparation. Partly because Behavioral Sciences is not heavily tested in the exam and clinical vignettes are time consuming. Also, I felt that by studying a standard review book alone, I was able to remember the distinguishing aspects of each disease. However I am sure there are many people who would find this book useful.

Don't bother
This is the worst book of the series and is a waste of time. Pharmacology cannot be taught by clinical vignettes and the author himself recognizes this. In the book review section of First Aid, Dr. Bhushan admits that it is not an ideal review source. The problem is that within two lines of the clinical vignette, the drug is revealed, so there is no chance to guess the answer. There are less time consuming ways to learn the side effects of drugs.

Excellent for USMLE prep
All three of the PathoPysiology books of the Clinical Vignettes series are excellent review books for pre-clinical students taking Step 1. Many questions on the exam are asked from a clinical standpoint. For IMGs who have clinical experience before taking Step 1, these books are less useful. However, they are still good to review unusual diseases. Since Pathology is so heavily tested in Step 1, these books are a good investment for anyone preparing for Step 1.

One of the best of the series
I found this book very helpful in forming a clinical picture in my mind for all those confusing biochemical diseases. I felt this was one of the best books of this series. It is good to use after reviewing the subject. This book is not sufficient on its own and should be used as an adjunct to a standard review book. ... Read more

Book Description

Praised by The New York Times as "an indispensable guide for the homeowner and the professional," Tree Maintenance has been the definitive source on maintenance of North American landscape trees for over fifty years, an essential reference not only for arborists, nurserymen, and landscape architects, but for all homeowners who want to keep their trees healthy and pest free.

The Seventh Edition, now named in honor of Dr. P. P. Pirone, who authored the first five editions and co-authored the sixth, has been revised to reflect the enormous amount of new information available since the last edition, including the latest techniques in selecting, planting, and protecting trees. The authors explain how to evaluate the site (the soil, drainage, and exposure), how to select the right tree for that location, and how to prune, fertilize, and spray for pests. There is an extensive section on the diagnosis and control of tree pests and diseases, and on problems such as construction damage, gas injury, sunscald, leaf scorch, and air pollution. While the general structure of the sixth edition has been retained, there are several topics--notably hazardous trees and coping with tree pests and diseases--that have received greater attention than in previous versions of the book. The second half of the book comprises a systematic listing of the major landscape trees found in North America, describing the specific pests and diseases that attack each species.

Well organized, clearly written, and beautifully illustrated with many new photographs, Pirone's Tree Maintenance is an encyclopedic resource, the first place to turn for information on dogwoods and elms, magnolias and redwoods, or any other tree growing in North America. Anyone serious about gardening will want this book on their shelf. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Practical introduction for the novice arborist
This classic text gives a broad introduction to the field of tree management, including common health problems associated with trees and practical advice for solving them. It is an excellent primer for the novice arborist. ... Read more

Book Description

In print for over a century, it is the definitive guide to cane sugar processing, treatment and analysis. This edition expands coverage of new developments during the past decade—specialty sugars, plant maintenance, automation, computer control systems and the latest in instrumental analysis for the sugar industry. ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Great reference
Not exactly light reading, but great reference book, just look at the contents:

Part One Raw Sugar Manufacture

1.Sugarcane, James E. Irvine

2.Sugars and Non-sugars in Sugarcane, Margaret A. Clarke

3.Methods of Cane Purchase, James C. P. Chen

4.Outline of Raw Sugar Process and Extraction of Juice, James C. P. Chen

5.Purification of the Juice, James C. P. Chen

6.Heating and Evaporation, James C. P. Chen

7.The Crystallization of Sugar, James C. P. Chen

8.Purging, packing and Warehousing of Raw Sugar, Len K. Kirby

9.Raw Sugar Quality Criteria, James C. P. Chen

10.By-Products of Cane Sugar Processing, James C. P. Chen

Part Two Cane Sugar Refining

11.Raw Sugar Purchase, Marketing and Receiving, Fred R. Hill

12.Affination and Clarification, Richard Riffer

13.Decolorization, Richard Riffer

14.Evaporation and Pan Boiling, Thomas N. Pearson

15.Centrifugation, C. Frank Stowe

16.Sugar Drying and Conditioning, Chung Chi Chou

17. Packaging, Warehousing and Shipping of Refined Products, Jeffery C. Robinson

18.Refined Sugar Products, Chung Chi Chou

19. Specialty Sugars, Andy C. Chen and Amhed Awad

20.Plant Maintenance Program, George Fawcett

Part Three Production and Process Controls 21.Definitions and Terms in Sugar Factory and Refinery Controls, James C. P. Chen and Chung Chi Chou

22.Chemicals Used as Sugar Processing Aids, James C. P. Chen and Chung Chi Chou

23.Sugar House and Refinery Calculations, James C. P. Chen and Chung Chi Chou

24.Chemical and Process Control (Raw House), James C. P. Chen

25.Technical and Sucrose Loss Control (Refinery), Joseph F. Dowling

26. Microbiological Control in Sugar Manufacturing and Refining, James C. P. Chen and Chung Chi Chou

27.Energy Conservation, Keith Sinclair

28.Total Quality Management System, Leon A. Anhasier

29.Computerized Sugar Manufacturing,

Part (A) Conceptualized Computer Control, Michael R. T. Low

Part (B) Process Control and Integration, Shyam Ambardar

30.Automation of a Sugar Refinery, Naotsugu Mera

31.Environmental Quality Assurance, James C. P. Chen and John Green

Part Four Analytical Procedures

32.Sampling and Averaging, James C. P. Chen

33.Special Laboratory Reagents, James C. P. Chen

34.Polarimetry in Sugar Analysis, James C. P. Chen and Chung Chi Chou

35.Instrumental Analysis for the Sugar Industry, Chung Chi Chou

36.Determination of Density and Total Solids, James C. P. Chen

37.Determination of Ash, James C. P. Chen

38.Determination of pH, James C. P. Chen

39.Determination of Color and Turbidity in Sugar Products, Chung Chi Chou

40.Determination of Dextran and Starch, Walter Altenburg

41.Analysis of Sugarcane, James C. P. Chen

42.Analysis of Juice, James C. P. Chen

43.Analysis of the Syrup, Massecuites and Molasses, James C. P. Chen

44. Analysis of Raw Sugars, James C. P. Chen

45. Analysis of Refined Sugar Products, Thomas Wilson and Stanley Bichsel

46. Analysis of Bagasses and Filtercake, James C. P. Chen

Great reference
Not exactly light reading, but great reference book, just look at the contents:

Part One Raw Sugar Manufacture

1.Sugarcane, James E. Irvine

2.Sugars and Non-sugars in Sugarcane, Margaret A. Clarke

3.Methods of Cane Purchase, James C. P. Chen

4.Outline of Raw Sugar Process and Extraction of Juice, James C. P. Chen

5.Purification of the Juice, James C. P. Chen

6.Heating and Evaporation, James C. P. Chen

7.The Crystallization of Sugar, James C. P. Chen

8.Purging, packing and Warehousing of Raw Sugar, Len K. Kirby

9.Raw Sugar Quality Criteria, James C. P. Chen

10.By-Products of Cane Sugar Processing, James C. P. Chen

Part Two Cane Sugar Refining

11.Raw Sugar Purchase, Marketing and Receiving, Fred R. Hill

12.Affination and Clarification, Richard Riffer

13.Decolorization, Richard Riffer

14.Evaporation and Pan Boiling, Thomas N. Pearson

15.Centrifugation, C. Frank Stowe

16.Sugar Drying and Conditioning, Chung Chi Chou

17. Packaging, Warehousing and Shipping of Refined Products, Jeffery C. Robinson

18.Refined Sugar Products, Chung Chi Chou

19. Specialty Sugars, Andy C. Chen and Amhed Awad

20.Plant Maintenance Program, George Fawcett

Part Three Production and Process Controls 21.Definitions and Terms in Sugar Factory and Refinery Controls, James C. P. Chen and Chung Chi Chou

22.Chemicals Used as Sugar Processing Aids, James C. P. Chen and Chung Chi Chou

23.Sugar House and Refinery Calculations, James C. P. Chen and Chung Chi Chou

24.Chemical and Process Control (Raw House), James C. P. Chen

25.Technical and Sucrose Loss Control (Refinery), Joseph F. Dowling

26. Microbiological Control in Sugar Manufacturing and Refining, James C. P. Chen and Chung Chi Chou

27.Energy Conservation, Keith Sinclair

28.Total Quality Management System, Leon A. Anhasier

29.Computerized Sugar Manufacturing,

Part (A) Conceptualized Computer Control, Michael R. T. Low

Part (B) Process Control and Integration, Shyam Ambardar

30.Automation of a Sugar Refinery, Naotsugu Mera

31.Environmental Quality Assurance, James C. P. Chen and John Green

Part Four Analytical Procedures

32.Sampling and Averaging, James C. P. Chen

33.Special Laboratory Reagents, James C. P. Chen

34.Polarimetry in Sugar Analysis, James C. P. Chen and Chung Chi Chou

35.Instrumental Analysis for the Sugar Industry, Chung Chi Chou

36.Determination of Density and Total Solids, James C. P. Chen

37.Determination of Ash, James C. P. Chen

38.Determination of pH, James C. P. Chen

39.Determination of Color and Turbidity in Sugar Products, Chung Chi Chou

40.Determination of Dextran and Starch, Walter Altenburg

41.Analysis of Sugarcane, James C. P. Chen

42.Analysis of Juice, James C. P. Chen

43.Analysis of the Syrup, Massecuites and Molasses, James C. P. Chen

44. Analysis of Raw Sugars, James C. P. Chen

45. Analysis of Refined Sugar Products, Thomas Wilson and Stanley Bichsel

46. Analysis of Bagasses and Filtercake, James C. P. Chen

Good Source of Sugar Process Engineering Information
This book is, in many ways, a good companion volume to the other standard text in sugar cane engineering (Hugot, Handbook of Cane Sugar Engineering).Chen and Chou's book is oriented to the sugar processing aspect of sugarmanufacture.The book is more about how to make sugar than how to makemachines that make sugar.

The Cane Sugar Handbook covers raw sugarmanufacture, refining, process controls, and analytical procedures.

Thetext is illustrated well with many line drawings, charts and graphs, and afew black and white photographs.

There are many useful data tables in theappendix. The text is fully referenced to papers and articles .

All inall a useful reference work to keep in your desk's top drawer (right nextto Hugot). ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Quick and informative
I bought this book for myself as a gift and my room-mate liked it so much he wants one for himself. It is a nice reference book to quickly look up vitamins and minerals and the effect they have on your body. Not alot of medical jargin to weed through. Alot of information that is useful. Let's you know what to increase/decrease in your diet to combat your symptoms. Great book! Will look at others from this author. ... Read more