Book Description

An introductory text that emphasizes the underlying algorithmic ideas that are driving advances in bioinformatics. ... Read more

Book Description

In one of the first major texts in the emerging field of computational molecular biology, Pavel Pevzner covers a broad range of algorithmic and combinatorial topics and shows how they are connected to molecular biology and to biotechnology. The book has a substantial "computational biology without formulas" component that presents the biological and computational ideas in a relatively simple manner. This makes the material accessible to computer scientists without biological training, as well as to biologists with limited background in computer science.

Computational Molecular Biology series Computer science and mathematics are transforming molecular biology from an informational to a computational science. Drawing on computational, statistical, experimental, and technological methods, the new discipline of computational molecular biology is dramatically increasing the discovery of new technologies and tools for molecular biology. The new MIT Press Computational Molecular Biology series provides a unique venue for the rapid publication of monographs, textbooks, edited collections, reference works, and lecture notes of the highest quality. ... Read more

Reviews (5)

The title says it...
An excellent book for studying computational molecular biology from an algorithmic perspective. (But if you never took mathematics seriously, you are forewarned.)

Good book, but the back cover lies....
As others have noted, the premise that this book is for beginners from either the computational or the biological field is flawed...unless one's definition of beginner is a lot more advanced than mine.

For example even chapter one throws out terms like "recombination" and electrophoresis. without enough explanation for the biology newbie, IMO. Heck, for someone truly new to biology, a bit of time explaining what a chromosome is is probably time well spent.

And for the person coming from a pure biology background, some of the mathematics will definitely be a problem unless they have a decent understanding of combinatorics and discrete mathematics. And that "computational biology without formulas" blurb on the back cover should be read as "not as many formulas as I could have included if I really wanted", rather than "no formulas at all". There are equations galore in this book, rest assured of that.

That said, if a person *does* have the necessary background to make the material accessbile, then the book is definitely worth the purchase. The book's failure is in defining its target audience, not in the material presented.

computational
While this is certainly the do-loop of computational biology the reader would question the assertion that this book provides a common link (no pun) between the biologists need for computational expertise and the programmer's need for biological insight. In either case a solid basis in Discrete Mathematics goes along way here (usually a required course for computer science majors). This reader thinks a similar required course in genetics should be made for engineers to reduce their reductionistic tendencies. However the distinction between these lines grows narrower with each new computer chip. None the less the book is well written, and easy to read (as Discrete Math stuff goes). This book is not for beginners in either Combinatorics or genetics and the last part of the book poses many current questions that as the author says, "are just currently being answered". This book already assumes you know about such things as NIH, PDB, Chime, Isis, NCIB, docking, etc. For those less adapt at programming (myself) the following alternatives are fun, useful and to the point. Both trees and networks can be easily set up in MathCad using their built in resource center add-ins for Combinatorics and Set Theory. They also provide a Traveling Salesman routine in Numerical Recipes that can be applied directly to the problems in Pevzner's book. (Although remembering that most optimization algorithms provide only the most probable 100 out of 2 million it is still fun!). Most of the mappings and node process familiar to Discrete Math can be solved using Mathcad and some sort of adjacency matrix combination. (Including the four-color mapping problem). This provides the basis for most nodal mappings. For the more daring the adjacency matrices can be run through Matlab's GUI's decompositions and analyzed using their optimization toolbox. Currently I'm investigating the Hidden Markovian chains using the Frame advance feature of Mathcad applied to 2D cspline- intercept graphing and updating by frame iteration. This book is for the serious student or solid course material in a related field, and while probably not rated in top ten novels of 2000 certainly rates five mouse clicks from this reader.

Nice book for experts
The title is somewhat misleading because the book is primarily devoted to combinatorial methods that could be used in genome sequencing and genomics. The selection of methods is arbitrary and does not seem to be dictated by either pedagogical or scientific vision. It mainly reflects the author's own work and interests. Contrary to what the editorial review states I find this text quite abstract and formal. I like the book very much but I don't think it should be recommended to the beginners in computational biology. Readers who have a taste for mathematics and a strong background in combinatorics could benefit the most from reading this book. Anybody who looks for a textbook-level guidance in computational biology should probably rely on better designed texts such as Don Gusfield's "Algorithms on strings trees and sequences" or "Biological sequence analysis" by Durbin and co-authors. However, the readers who are interested in mathematics behind designs of DNA arrays (chapter 5) or in mathematical treatment of genome rearrangements (chapter 10) should certainly read this book in detail.

A must have for computational biologists
If you want to understand what is INSIDE those nice software tools available to molecular biologists and now on the web you have to study this book. It's a little more advanced than Gusfield's in some aspects, and more research oriented. Of course it does not cover uniformly all areas of computational biology: if you know Pavel's work, it would be very easy to predict the content of the chapters. For example, more than 50 pages are dedicated to genome rearrangement, but only 10 on multiple sequence alignment. Anyway, this is good, because we can learn about alignment from many other books, in particular the one by Gusfield. I strongly recommend this book to anyone interested in this fascinating field of Science. ... Read more

Reviews (6)

Concise introduction to the origin of life.
An excellent book about the origins of life. Dyson does an excellent job of clarifying the main issues concerning the origins of life while introducing some of his own ideas. He keeps it all together in a very tight package.

His own theory about the origin of life is quite interesting and probably could be expanded upon, especially in light of other, similar mathematical treatments such as those of Manfred Eigen.

Bright Light
Great short book. A good way to spend an hour and learn a lot on the way.

Like A Physicist Out of Water
I love science fiction, and this book is science fiction, but with one serious flaw: The author is a physicist and his lack of training in chemisty, genetics, and biology is an embarrassment throughout the book; which I guess is why he kept it to 90 pages; he ran out of things to say. Having a physicist explain biology is like having a biologist explain physics. Hello?! Does this make sense? No, and neither does this book.

A Short Book That Says a Lot
In 91 pages of text Freeman Dyson says some surprising and wonderful things, and turns around some conventional notions about the place of replicating molecules such as DNA and RNA in early life. His view is that they came later - perhaps much later - after metabolism was established in cells that reproduced sloppily and approximately, but had robust-enough homeostatic mixes that a split was usually successful. This view was approximately that of a Russian named Oparin 75 years ago, but the dazzle of the genome has turned almost everyone to thinking that precise replicators had priority in the development of life over haphazard metabolizers.

Dyson does not depend on hand-waving and vague argument to draw these conclusions. He reviews what is known and the main extant theories of life's origin, then introduces his own, using a "toy model" that abstracts the chemistry and draws conclusions about steady-state solutions that might work. As befits a great theoretician, it is an elegant and powerful bit of theorizing, but does not wander from the constraints of the chemistry -- as far as he knows. But Dyson is clear that the point of his model is to stimulate experiment, and that organic chemists will be the ones to judge the usefulness and viability of his assumptions.

Unless you are a physicist, you won't follow some of his work in solving for the model, but you can trust the math and the physics when it comes from Freeman Dyson. Just glance at the equations and graphs, but follow the words in his model chapter and get a real feel for the kind of system that proto-life might have been.

He makes a good case for the essence of life being complexity, and that the conceptual purity and rigor of the gene has distracted us from the "tangled bank" that life at all levels, from bacterial cell to ecosystem to economy, seems to exemplify. Error tolerance -- being able to carry on in the midst of junk and in spite of "mistakes" -- seems to be more characteristic of life than exactness. That's a pleasing notion in an uptight age.

a fun quick read
my eyes glazed over on the chapter with the math but i was still able to get a decent overall review of the key issues..he has his own favorite theory but acknowledges opposing ones..i respect that. i feel more ready to tackle other books on the subject, as a result ... Read more

Amazon.com

What makes DNA different from hordes of competitors purporting tohelp readers understand genetics is that it is written by none otherthan James Watson, of Watson and Crick fame. He and his co-author AndrewBerry have produced a clear and easygoing history of genetics, fromMendel through genome sequencing. Watson offers readers a sense ofimmediacy, a behind-the scenes familiarity with some of the mostexciting developments in modern science. He gleefully reports on theresearch juggernaut that led to current obsessions with geneticengineering and cloning. Aided by profuse illustrations and photos, Watson offers an enthusiastic account of how scientists figured out how DNA codes for the creation of proteins--the so-called "central dogma" of genetics. But aspatents and corporations enter the picture, Watson reveals his concernabout the incursions of business into the hallowed halls of science.

After 1975, DNA was no longer solely the concern ofacademics trying to understand the molecular underpinnings of life. Themolecule moved beyond the cloisters of white-coated scientists into avery different world populated largely by men in silk ties and sharpsuits.

In later chapters, Watson aims barbs at those who are concerned bygenetic tinkering, calling them "alarmists" who don't understand how theexperiments work. It is in these arguments that Watson may lose favorwith those whose notions of science were born after Silent Spring.Nevertheless, DNA encompasses both sides of the political issuesinvolved in genetics, and Watson is an enthusiastic proponent of debateon the subject. The book accompanies a 5-part PBS series. --ThereseLittleton ... Read more

Reviews (16)

Genetic revolution from Mendel to human genome sequencing
Fifty years ago author and scientist James D. Watson helped launch an investigation into the phenomena of human DNA with publication of his now-famous "Double Helix" book: today he gives the first history of the genetic revolution from Mendel to human genome sequencing. Individual chapters consider the rise of molecular science, provide explanations of DNA processes and emerging new sciences surrounding genetics, and provides general-interest readers with a fine blend of science and social issues. This is an important survey and a "must" for school and community library Science and Biology collections.

Unfolding story of DNA and genetics, and its implications
James Watson's book, DNA: The Secret of Life, describes the history of DNA and genetics from a scientist who was an eyewitness to the revolutions in genetics. Watson helped discover the 3D structure of the double helix, and led out as a director of the Human Genome Project. There are three main aspects to this book: 1) the recent and on-going history of scientific discoveries in the exploration of genetics, 2) the mechanics of how things work (such as how DNA replicates or is cloned, or how genes are linked to diseases, etc.) and 3) the author's perspective of how life evolved.

Prior to the discovery of DNA, people have been playing around with heredity and the role of inheriting traits in breading animals and agriculture since the beginning of history. But with the developments of science, the study of genetics has brought more light to the subject. Watson talks about the people who contributed to the emerging field of genetics, from Gregor Mendel and Charles Darwin, through the "eugenics" movement of the early 1900's, to the Human Genome Project. By telling the stories of the struggles in science, with the author's frankness, honesty and wit, Watson gains authority and authenticity in the presentation of his information. This book is illuminating and will arouse an interest in the subject of genetics in every reader.

My only personal problem with the book is that the author presents his opinions and perspectives within the text as if his opinions themselves were facts, while in truth there are many issues that are still debated. Watson starts with the founding assumption, or presupposition that life is the result of chance. He makes some unfounded assertions or conclusions that might have other alternate viewpoints. For example, he goes from talking about the chemical properties and processes of DNA replication, jumping to how life began in an "RNA world." He also implies that Arthur Kornberg had created "life in a test tube," while Kornberg himself has written that he did not, in fact, create life. (Journal of Bacteriology)

Watson also asserts that, "The Human Genome Project has proved Darwin more right than Darwin himself would ever have dared dream." But on what basis can he say this? The HGP merely sequenced and mapped DNA and cannot prove anything by itself. Watson employs circular thinking to support evolutionary claims: "proofs" that are founded on the presupposition that humans are results of evolution. The primary argument for evolution is the similarity between all biological systems. But, what if all biological systems were designed similarly on purpose? If something works well in one place, why redesign it? Watson believes that the "grandest mission" of molecular biology is to answer questions about ourselves and our origins as a species. But, as long as scientists start with the presupposition that humans are the result of evolution, the results will always be interpreted that way. So my only caution is that you should distinguish what is actually fact and what is merely the author's speculation.

Anyway, I recommend this book to anyone who is interested in the subject of genetics. Watson presents almost every aspect of the subject in clear detail, and he is frank about the ethical and social implications of the discoveries that are sure to challenge traditional ways of thinking.

Great General Science Book!
This book IS mostly about DNA, but it contains so much more. Watson is one of the best science writers of all time. He makes it so interesting that even the most unknowledgable layman of all time will grasp most of the concepts in this vivid portrait. It reads like a novel at times and like an excerpt from a scientific journal other times. If you don't like reading, buy this book for the pictures, it has very interesting pictures with great captions! There is a picture on nearly every page! This book is really interest for scientist and layman alike!

UNTEACHABLETRUTH
Oakland schoolchildren can have their DNA tested. They are pleased at the surprising news abour "race." Every human being can be traced to Africa; there never was a master race, a slave race or a foreign race. No more name-calling. No more excuses. The pill may be a little bitter, but science has made humanity better, and equal.

Here is a textboook which every child - on earth - should read. But where do we find teachers?

DNA is fascinating. John Kerry's prominent jaw is a genetic trait.; he's not an alien but a fellow African. An ancestor way back had a mutated gene, that's all. I inherited my dad's bushy eyebrows. If you have freckles - well?

Charlize Theron might have 100% perfect genes, but genes aren't everything. She and her mother speak a German dialect which is not genetic. Watson's book mistakenly implies DNA explains languages. The ability to speak is genetic , but thousands of separate languages evolved by usage; a prominent linguist suggests they all came from a common ancestral language. Out of Africa.

Another mistake in Watson's book is asserting we will never know why humans created "culture." He's not an economist. I would love to explain how foraging tribes got into the art business, but Melinda Gates scoffs at my funding application. Microsoft, mysteriously, owns a chunk of the DNA action.

The fundamental problem with this astounding book is that Watson and other DNA scientists cannot shake off the "Hitler problem" - extermination of genetically "inferior" people. Eugenics was a moronic American movement which led to vast horror - the Holocaust. Warson should be able to get his science off that hook, but doesn't.

Can any teacher use this textbook without preaching eugenics?

Shooting quacks
James Watson has long been a hero to many, including this humble reviewer. His justified fame is augmented with a laudable forthrightness, a rarity in this era of political correctness and fear of new scientifically grounded knowledge of the nature of the human beast. His honesty in confronting the meaning in the data and willingness to take on the theologians and the pseudo-scientific quacks who infest the departments of theology, anthropology, psychology and sociology of the academies is an inspiration to us all.

DNA is not just a book about genes and DNA. It is about the essential nature of man himself, and the political controversies generated by the new insights. Is is a tale of how this new science is finally vanquishing the old wives' tales, the mantras of the bishops, and the ignorance of the wishful thinkers. Watson is a brilliant exponent of the hard truth over the comfortable conformity.

He was, though, I thought, a little hard on the eugenics movement of the early part of the last century. This is an idea that has never really been vanquished, nor should it be--man will (hopefully) never cease to try to improve himself and his race. These men knew, as we must, that in these matters we are required to proceed in the absence of perfect information about the consequences of our natal policies. In a hundred years our present ignorance will stand revealed, as will that be two hundred years hence. Should we rely on what we know now, or should we only rely on tradition, theologians, and mass-media induced hysteria in the meantime?

On race, Watson is courageous and not afraid to let the data take us where it will. He believes that we have a lot to learn yet on this subject, and is not ready to be pushed around by the dogmatists who are only to willing to tell us how to think. Good for him!

The book is an excellent read, and is very attractive in its layout and generous illustrations. The writing style he uses is exceptionally clear--even conversational at times, navigating the space between talking down to the reader and an academic rant with great skill and sensitivity to his audience. It has a lot for the reader already knowledgeable about molecular biology, as well as, incredibly, the general reader. ... Read more

Book Description

DNA Technology, Second Edition, is a survey of biotechnology written to enlighten readers about the breakthroughs made possible by the science and technologies associated with current DNA research. Ed Alcamo gives the educated layperson a survey of DNA by presenting a brief history of genetics, a clear outline of techniques that are in use, and indications of breakthroughs in cloning and other DNA advances. Appropriate for a wide range of courses for non-biology majors, including a ODNA for Lawyers course or allied health and nursing courses.

* An introductory treatment of aspects of DNA technology written to enlighten the reader about the breakthroughs made possible by the science and technologies associated with DNA
* Emphasizes the practical implications and applications of the new genetic technologies; readers will come away saying, "So that's what DNA technology is all about!"
* Helps students, business people, lawyers, and jurists gain more confidence in their ability to to understand and appreciate DNA technology and human genetics
* Persons with genetic diseases will gain a clearer understanding of their afflictions and understand the bases for possible cures
* Agriculturists will have insight into the genetic basis for gene-altered plants and animals
* The general public will better appreciate the nature and reasons for the Human Genome Project now in progress ... Read more

Reviews (3)

Excellent book
Easy read, topics explained well. Would definitely recommend this book for anyone wanting to learn more about biotechnology.

Great Book for Beginners
This is a great book for beginners - easy to understand, yet you can grasp some big pictures. Serious learners might want to look for more advanced level books, as I had to use other books whenever I needed to learn in depth.

The best academic general guide
Are you looking for something usefull and can be understood clearly at the first time?This is the most helpfull guide if you are not proffessio nally working on a research.For collegers and Eastern universities:Ferfect introduction to the field.Do not worry not to having enought experience on the field.This book will carry you to where ever you want to go. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Very High Yield!
High yield cell and molecular biology is exactly what it says, and from the outset doesn't pretend to be anything else. "Lean efficient text" says the blurb, "Study guides with the barest essentials". These words certainly comforted me after reading the somewhat ominous title! The text is compact, with clear and helpful diagrams illustrating and clarifying the most difficult concepts in the book. The style is in fact very much the same as I might choose to write own revision notes, with chapters divided into sub-titles, and those into bullet points. Key words are emboldened, so it is possible to absorb a page by only scanning the bold type; useful if you are caught short when preparing for an exam and need the facts quickly! There is a smattering of clinical examples throughout, and descriptions of procedures such as PCR, which both help anchor your thoughts of the sometimes abstract nature of the subject. Being a molecular biology book it is biased toward genetics, and as this is a confusing area for many students (including me), this will help if your genetics lectures tend to sail several meters over your head. On the downside, the economic nature of the text and the no-frills nature of the diagrams mean that it is not a particularly colourful or engaging read in it's own right. This is also positive, meaning that it is easier to extract information quickly than would be possible from a more bulky text. It is clearly meant to be dipped into, rather than read cover-to-cover. Realistically though, who would read a textbook cover-to-cover? People who will benefit from this book will be pre-clinical medical students, those intercalating a BSc in clinical science or genetics, doctors requiring an up-to-date review, or other students of biomedical science. This should not be your only textbook on cellular biology and genetics, but will serve as the perfect revision tool when exams sidle up too close for comfort. ... Read more

Book Description

This is the second edition of a highly successful textbook (over 50,000 copies sold) in which a highly illustrated, narrative text is combined with easy–to–use thoroughly reliable laboratory protocols. It contains a fully up–to–date collection of 12 rigorously tested and reliable lab experiments in molecular biology, developed at the internationally renowned Dolan DNA Learning Center of Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, which culminate in the construction and cloning of a recombinant DNA molecule.

Proven through more than 10 years’ of teaching at research and nonresearch colleges and universities, junior colleges, community colleges, and advanced biology programs in high school, this book has been successfully integrated into introductory biology, general biology, genetics, microbiology, cell biology, molecular genetics, and molecular biology courses.

The first eight chapters have been completely revised, extensively rewritten, and updated. The new coverage extends to the completion of the draft sequence of the human genome and the enormous impact these and other sequence data are having on medicine, research, and our view of human evolution. All sections on the concepts and techniques of molecular biology have been updated to reflect the current state of laboratory research.

The laboratory experiments cover basic techniques of gene isolation and analysis, honed by over 10 years of classroom use to be thoroughly reliable, even in the hands of teachers and students with no prior experience. Extensive prelab notes at the beginning of each experiment explain how to schedule and prepare, while flow charts and icons make the protocols easy to follow.

As in the first edition of this book, the laboratory course is completely supported by quality–assured products from the Carolina Biological Supply Company, from bulk reagents, to useable reagent systems, to single–use kits, thus satisfying a broad range of teaching applications. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

spotless
This book is the best book on the subject on the market. The subject matter is juxtaposed by easy yet informative experiments that can be carried out in a normal scholastic setting. I hear the writers are all hotties. ... Read more

Book Description

An Introduction to Tissue-Biomaterial Interactions acquaints an undergraduate audience with the fundamental biological processes that influence these sophisticated, cutting-edge procedures.  Chapters one through three provide more detail about the molecular-level events that happen at the tissue-implant interface, while chapters four through ten explore selected material, biological, and physiological consequences of these events. The importance of the body’s wound-healing response is emphasized throughout. Specific topics covered include:    Structure and properties of biomaterials  Proteins  Protein-surface interactions  Blood-biomaterial interactions  Inflammation and infection  The immune system  Biomaterial responses to implantation  Biomaterial surface engineering  Intimal hyperplasia and osseointegration as examples of tissue-biomaterial interactions  The text also provides extensive coverage of the three pertinent interfaces between the body and the biomaterial, between the body and the living cells, and between the cells and the biomaterial that are critical in the development of tissue-engineered products that incorporate living cells within a biomaterial matrix.  Ideal for a one-semester, biomedical engineering course, An Introduction to Tissue-Biomaterial Interactions provides a solid framework for understanding today’s and tomorrow’s implantable biomedical devices.

  ... Read more

Reviews (1)

Excellent Book
"...excellent attention to detail...recommended for graduate students, faculty and researchers, and bioengineers and physicians." (Choice, Vol. 40, No. 6, February 2003) ... Read more

Book Description

Molecular Biology of the Cell, Fourth Edition: A Problems Approach is designed to help students appreciate the ways in which experiments and simple calculations can lead to an understanding of how cells work. Chapters are subdivided as in Molecular Biology of the Cell and provide a review of key terms, test for understanding basic concepts, and research-based problems. Chapters 1-8 and 10-18 from Molecular Biology of the Cell are covered in this way.The new edition of A Problems Approach (formerly titled The Problems Book) is completely reorganized and revised to match the Fourth Edition of Molecular Biology of the Cell. Detailed answers are provided in the book for half the problems to help students learn how to analyze experimental observations and draw conclusions from them. Problems without the solution contained in the book are useful for homework assignments and as exam questions. Answers to these problems are provided to instructors upon request. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

electrtonic version??
is there a electronic version like pdf format in somewhere ??
how much does it cost ??

i,ve already the whole book and is a perfect way to learn biology whith a lot of images an clearly explained topics.

well , thats all, sorry about my english. ... Read more

Book Description

Actins are highly conserved proteins found in virtually all eukaryotic cells. They have prolific roles in cell motility, from the contraction of striated muscle to the movement of organelles within cells, and are known to interact with a diverse number of proteins. This up-to-date edition gives a comprehensive account of actin sequence, mutation, and structure as well as providing insight into ligand-binding sites and drug and toxin binding. ... Read more

Book Description

iGenetics: A Mendelian Approach reflects the dynamic nature of modern genetics by emphasizing an experimental, inquiry-based approach with a solid treatment of many research experiments. 1. Genetics: An Introduction, Mendelian Genetics, Chromosomal Basis of Inheritance, Extensions of Mendelian Genetic Principles, Quantitative Genetics, Gene Mapping in Eukaryotes, Advanced Gene Mapping in Eukaryotes, Variations in Chromosome Structure and Number, Genetics of Bacteria and Bacteriophages, DNA: The Genetic Material, DNA Replication, Gene Control of Proteins, Gene Expression: Transcription, Gene Expression: Translation, DNA Mutation, DNA Repair, and Transposable Elements, Recombinant DNA Technology, Applications of Recombinant DNA Technology, Genomics, Regulation of Gene Expression in Bacteria and Bacteriophages, Regulation of Gene Expression in Eukaryotes, Genetic Analysis of Development, Genetics of Cancer, Non-Mendelian Inheritance, Population Genetics, Molecular Evolution For all readers interested in learning the central concepts of genetics. ... Read more

Book Description

Extensively revised and updated to reflect the current state of knowledge in the study of aging, the third edition of the bestselling Physiological Basis of Aging and Geriatrics provides an even more complete profile of the aging of individuals and populations. It includes aspects of demographic, comparative, and differential aging together with a discussion of the several theories of aging. It shows how body functions change with aging, describes how both genetic and environmental factors influence aging-related changes, and addresses some of the clinical consequences of these changes for health and longevity.Divided into three main sections, the book first provides a broad and solid background in basic processes of biogerontology. Then it presents a survey of the aging of body systems, focusing on maintenance of optimal function and ability to adapt to environmental demands. Finally, it provides a synopsis of pharmacologic, nutritional, and physical exercise guidelines for preserving physical and mental health into old age.This book collects up-to-date information from internationally renowned experts in various biologic fields using physiology as the unifying concept. Illustrated with numerous tables and graphs, Physiological Basis of Aging and Geriatrics, Third Edition focuses on the established facts of physiological aging to provide an essential reference book for a wide spectrum of readers with different levels of biological and educational backgrounds. ... Read more

Book Description

Most of the diseases of modern mankind involve either acute or chronic inflammation. Measuring Immunity integrates the current information available on biomarkers and surrogate assays into a single handbook. It highlights the principles behind various applications, gives a brief summary on how they are conducted and provides detailed and critical analyses of murine models of immunity, clinical trials, and tests to predict utility and benefit. Measuring Immunity is indispensable for scientists and clinicians interested in the clinical applications of modern immunobiology.

* Defines which assays of immune function are helpful in the assessment of clinical disorders involving inflammation and immunity
* Assesses the dynamics of cellular and soluble factors in the peripheral blood using modern techniques
* Includes basic science foundations as well as the approaches currently applied ... Read more

Book Description

The tendency to synchronize may be the most mysterious and pervasive drive in all of nature. It has intrigued some of the most brilliant minds of the 20th century, including Albert Einstein, Richard Feynman, Norbert Wiener, Brian Josephson, and Arthur Winfree.

At once elegant and riveting, Sync tells the story of the dawn of a new science. Steven Strogatz, a leading mathematician in the fields of chaos and complexity theory, explains how enormous systems can synchronize themselves, from the electrons in a superconductor to the pacemaker cells in our hearts. He shows that although these phenomena might seem unrelated on the surface, at a deeper level there is a connection, forged by the unifying power of mathematics. ... Read more

Reviews (28)

A "Must Read" book!
Review of Sync: The Emerging Science of Spontaneous Order, by Steven Strogatz

Reviewer: Mark Lamendola, IEEE Senior Member and author of over 3500 articles.

Two thumbs up! This entertaining and informative book is one of the few I would read twice. You know those lists of books you'd want to have if you were stranded on a desert island? Sync made my list.

While Sync is fact-filled, it's far from dry. Throughout the text, Strogatz made me laugh out loud-reminding me very much of the engaging, "can't put it down" writing style used by Bill Bryson (author of Rediscovering America on the Appalachian Trail and The Lost Continent).

Strogatz takes a complex topic, and explains it in a way that even folks with no innate interest in the topic will find enjoyable. I learned quite a bit about how and why everything from atoms to planets will suddenly act in unison-or not do so. My newly-gained understanding of the relationship between sleep cycles and body temperature cycles has already helped me make some positive changes. Then there's the explanation of traffic....
Not once did Strogatz use an intimidating equation-or any equation at all. Instead, he treats the reader to rich metaphors, analogies, and examples. And instead of dry history on how sync got where it is today, Strogatz shares the frustrations, peculiarities, and human drama of the people behind the developments. Strogatz keeps a pace that is more in line with a Tom Clancy novel than a book focused on a science topic.

The ending made me go back to the beginning-to the dedication, actually. I never cared about dedications, before. However this one really meant something to me after I read Sync. Strogatz dedicated Sync to his departed friend Art Winfree, without whom Strogatz would never have taken his fabulous journey and without whom such a marvelous book would not have been possible.

SYNC a "group mind"
Have you ever wondered how a flock of seagulls can synchronize as though it had a "group mind"? Or even stranger, how various pieces of machinery can appear to conspire together?
Prof. Steven Strogatz shows lucidly, and without written math, that there is a solid mathematical basis leading toward a natural tendency for everything from atoms and galaxies to living organisms to synchronize their behavior and spontaneously form ordered structures. Beginning with the uncanny spectacle of thousands of fireflies flashing in unison, and demonstrating the same principles, heart cells, and civilizations, Sync is filled with fascinating accounts of seemingly - mysterious self-organizing behavior. And computer studies have shown that this appears to be built into nature itself. A unifying theme is "coupled oscillators", as basic a concept as vibrating guitar strings, and how different notes can vibrate parts of the room walls. Such resonance effects exist in all the Universe, and weak though they may be they can produce profound effects in a large group.
After reading Sync, you may initially feel that synchronous "group mind-like" behavior in everything from fireflies to economic cycles is less mysterious, knowing that there's a mathematical foundation. But upon reflection, the mystery even deepens: mathematics is the study of possible relationships among pure numbers, yet when applied to simple vibrating objects, the results pertain to both "dumb" particles and intelligent humans. And while Prof. Strogatz sticks to known science, I'm left speculating on exactly what's so "dumb" about nature!

Find out the origin of sync!!!
The craving of nature for synchronization is fundamental. To understand the origin of this basic trait of nature you should also read Eugene Savov's book Theory of Interaction the Simplest Explanation of Everything. It appears that oscillations are intrinsic property of every bit of reality from atoms to galaxies and the universe as whole. Everything vibrates at frequencies of its own as shown in the theory of interaction. This qualitatively new theory reveals why the vibrations become faster deeper into the structure of every body. For example, your heart beats faster than you breathe.

My review...
Good book on the subject, the physics part in the middle with super-fluid was difficult when stoned. This is one of the first books which is leading to the convergence of science and religion ( science being the religion of cause and effect ). I especially liked how the book ends with brain-sync to create thoughts and emotions. I've just finished the book "Mind wide Open" because I wanted to know more about how the brain worked because of it. I'm now starting "Mind and Nature: A Necessary Unity (Advances in Systems Theory, Complexity, and the Human Sciences)", all because of this book. So I liked this book as you can tell. But good books written by Math professors are rare.

Considering how cycles are coordinated and humans affected
'Sync' is the emerging science of spontaneous order, studying the elements of synchrony and chaos and complexity theory and considering how cycles are coordinated and humans affected. This is a relatively new science and in Sync: The Emerging Science Of Spontaneous Order, author and mathematician Steven Strogatz (one of its early pioneers), provides invaluable and informative insights into how enormous systems can synchronize themselves and draw upon underlying connections. ... Read more

Book Description

Balancing coverage of both classical and modern genetics, this book presents a succinct overview of genetics. Known for a clear writing style, an emphasis on concepts, and thoughtful coverage of all areas of genetics, the authors capture readers' interest with up-to-date coverage of cutting-edge topics and research. The new edition features "How Do We Know What We Know?" boxes to focus readers on the experimental aspects of genetics. This book covers the latest information on genetics, such as genomics, conservation genetics, sex determination and sex chromosomes, genomics and proteomics,molecular genetics, and population genetics. It will appeal to evolutionarily-oriented professionals in the biological sciences, zoology, agriculture, and health science fields.

Book Description

Fundamental Concepts of Bioinformatics is the first book co-authored by a biologist and computer scientist that is specifically designed to make bioinformatics accessible and provide readers for more advanced work. Readers learn what programs are available for analyzing data, how to understand the basic algorithms that underlie these programs, what bioinformatic research is like, and other basic concepts. Information flows easily from one topic to the next, with enough detail to support the major concepts without overwhelming readers. Problems at the end of each chapter use real data to help readers apply what they have learned so they know how to critically evaluate results from both a statistical and biological point of view.Focus on fundamentally important algorithms at the core of bioinformatics.For anyone interested in bioinformatics (in biology or computer science), computational biology, molecular biology, or genomics. ... Read more

Reviews (1)

good undergrad/opening text
Features

First bioinformatics primer for undergraduates. Personable writing style and numerous analogies make this text accessible to undergraduates.

Focus on fundamentally important algorithms at the core of bioinformatics.

Easy-to-do "paper and pencil" calculations make fundamental algorithms unintimidating for biology students and accessible to students with limited experience in computer programming.

Combined expertise (biology and computer science) of author team ensures an integrated approach and an appreciation for the biology and computer science tools and perspectives.

End-of-Chapter summaries tie together key concepts and provide real-world examples of the algorithms presented.

Detailed solutions to selected text questions are provided in the back of the text so students can check their answers.

Annotated Reading Material sections at the end of each chapter direct students to additional resources for further explanation.

Questions and problems at the end of each chapter help students apply their understanding of the material.

Contents

MOLECULAR BIOLOGY AND BIOLOGICAL CHEMISTRY.
DATA SEARCHES AND PAIRWISE ALIGNMENTS.
SUBSTITUTION PATTERNS.
DISTANCE-BASED METHODS OF PHYLOGENETICS.
CHARACTER-BASED APPROACHES TO PHYLOGENETICS.
GENOMICS AND GENE RECOGNITION.
PROTEIN FOLDING.
PROTEOMICS. ... Read more

Book Description

Mucosal immunology is so important since most infectious agents enter the body through the various mucous membranes, and many common infections take place in or on mucous membranes. Mucosal Immunology, now two volumes and in its third edition, is the only comprehensive reference covering the basic science and clinical manifestations of mucosal immunology. This book contains new research data, exceptional illustrations, original theory, a new perspective and excellent organization.

* The most comprehensive text on mucosal immunology from internationally recognized experts in the field
* Includes exceptional color illustrations, new research data, original theory and information on all mucosal diseases
* Contains nine new chapters and an expanded appendix ... Read more

Book Description

Boiled-down essentials of the top-selling Schaum's Outline series, for the student with limited time

What could be better than the bestselling Schaum's Outline series? For students looking for a quick nuts-and-bolts overview, it would have to be Schaum's Easy Outline series. Every book in this series is a pared-down, simplified, and tightly focused version of its bigger predecessor. With an emphasis on clarity and brevity, each new title features a streamlined and updated format and the absolute essence of the subject, presented in a concise and readily understandable form. Graphic elements such as sidebars, reader-alert icons, and boxed highlights feature selected points from the text, illuminate keys to learning, and give students quick pointers to the essentials.

Reviews (1)

Great book for reference and quick brush-up
I bought this book so I would not have to shuffle through the pages of my cell/molucular bio textbook. Although this book was great with having the main concepts, there wasn't much detail. But that is the purpose of the book- to have the main molecular biology topics in a clear and organized manner. For more detail and test questions get the full outline book from the same series. If you just want the info you need to know this book is outstanding! ... Read more

Book Description

The critically acclaimed laboratory standard, Methods in Enzymology, is one of the most highly respected publications in the field of biochemistry. Since 1955, each volume has been eagerly awaited, frequently consulted, and praised by researchers and reviewers alike. The series contains much material still relevant today - truly an essential publication for researchers in all fields of life sciences.

RNA Interference will cover RNAi in non-vertebrates (plants, C. elegans, drosophila, and S. pombe), and Mammalian systems (human and non-human cells).This volume discusses extensive methodology related to delivery methods high throughput strategies andprospects as a human therapy agent.

* One of the most highly respected publications in the field of biochemistry since 1955
* Frequently consulted, and praised by researchers and reviewers alike
* Truly an essential publication for anyone in any field of the life sciences ... Read more

Reviews (1)

"Genomics & Proteomics" BookReview 4(4):40, 2004
With the rise and utility of RNA Interference (RNAi) as a useful tool for silencing and manipulating genes, there has been much interest in the specific applications of this technique to various animal models for disease. Because it is a natural phenomenon, RNAi is more robust than other RNA-based methods. However, RNAi pathways do not follow the same rules in different organisms, and therefore, specific information on RNAi methods is essential for each model organism studied.
The aim of "RNA Interference (RNAi): Nuts & Bolts of RNAi Technology" by David Engelke and published by DNA Press (www.dnapress.net) is to serve as a guide for practical RNAi use in the laboratory. The book is short on general theory behind RNAi, except to furnish the bare minimum of background information for each chapter. However, the book is rich in specific protocols for the various methods that are described, including suppliers of reagents and advice on modifications and customizations of protocols.
Chapters include protocols for RNAi in plants, Drosophila, C. elegans, mammalian systems, mice, and discussions of high-throughput RNAi as well as design, synthesis and preparation of synthetic RNAi. An added bonus each chapter contains an ample list of relevant literature references.

Joshua Marcy, www.genpromag.com ... Read more

Book Description

Building on the proven strength of Russell's step-by-step problem-solving approach, Essential iGenetics blends a classic, Mendel-first approach with modern molecular coverage. This easy-to-read introduction to genetics presents full coverage of the subject in a brief and manageable format. Readers develop and apply critical thinking skills as they work step-by-step through a number of solved genetics problems. Readers can also apply the principles and techniques learned to a variety of problems at the end of each chapter.The book covers basic genetics principles, with balanced coverage of Mendel, historical experiments, and cutting-edge chapters on Genome Analysis and Molecular Evolution.For anyone interested in genetics. ... Read more