Neuroscience in space

Clément, Gilles, Ph.D. RC1151 .C45 C54 2008

Clément (CNRS, Toulouse, France) and Reschke (senior neuroscientist, NASA, Johnson Space Center) present a comprehensive review of animal and human neuroscience research conducted either in space or with subjects who just returned from space. The information is presented with the detail that scientists require, clearly outlining the complicated issues involved in sending humans on brief and extended space journeys. Researchers working on space programs will benefit from the extensive discussion of space motion sickness, sensory changes, postural adaptation, spatial orientation, sleep challenges, and possible measures to counter the effects of microgravity in space. However, the impact of the research reviewed in this volume extends well beyond space science and has a significant impact on an understanding of neural adaptation and the effect of gravity on a multitude of neural processes. Sending animals and humans into space offers neuroscientists the unique opportunity to study mechanisms underlying neural adaptation to changing environments. Clément and Reschke conclude the work by laying out an agenda for neuroscience research in space that addresses gravity-sensing receptors, motor systems, spatial orientation, and cognition in the microgravity environment. They also recommend the study of general concepts such as the time course of neural adaptation. (from Choice March, 2009)

Grasses and grassland ecology

Gibson, David J. QH541.5 .P7 G53 2009

Grasslands, in particular managed pastures and rangelands, are widespread, covering approximately 40% (52 million km2) of the Earth's land surface. They are dominated by members of the Poaceae - the fourth largest plant family with over 7,500 species, and also the most widespread. Grasslands constitute a major biome on all continents except Antarctica and also represent the most important food crop on Earth with corn, wheat, maize, rice and millet accounting for the majority of our agricultural output.

Grasses and Grassland Ecology provides an ecologically orientated introduction to this influential group of plants, summarizing the most recent scientific research in ecology and agriculture in the context of the older, classic literature. Ten chapters cover the morphology, anatomy, physiology and systematics of grasses, their population, community and ecosystem ecology, their global distribution, and the effects of disturbance and grassland management.

Natural experiments: ecosystem-based management and the environment

Layzer, Judith A. [Ebook]

http://cowles-proxy.drake.edu/login?url=http://site.ebrary.com/lib/drake/Top?layout=document&id=10240754

Landscape-scale ecosystem management is increasingly recognized as the appropriate scale for understanding and resolving ecological problems. This is especially the case when problems stem from uncoordinated local planning and urban sprawl. Layzer (environmental policy, MIT) investigates problems through seven case studies, which highlight similarities and differences between regions in a rigorous fashion. They include Austin, Texas; San Diego; the Everglades; Sacramento delta; Sonora Desert; central Florida; and Mono Lake. The cases are sufficiently different that they provide readers with an understanding of the national implications of both regional and local planning decisions, while clearly maintaining focus on the unique character of each ecosystem. When landscape-scale management is adopted, regional governance tends to select one of two planning models. One aligns planning with the largely economic interests of stakeholders and resource users, generally undermining planning based in science. The other tends to see science involved in resource assessments and planning decisions. Layzer's findings should be very helpful to regional planners starting the process of planning at the landscape or whole ecosystem scale. This is a timely, compelling contribution to the literature on regional and environmental planning. (from Choice March 2009)

Photobiology: the science of life and light

Björn, Lars Olof, 1936- QH515 .P467 2008

This unique volume addresses the biological diversity and interdisciplinarity of photobiology in a current, comprehensive way. General material about photobiological techniques and the nature of light connects with more specialized chapters on topics including photosynthesis, photomorphogenesis, photoperiodism, bioluminescence, and vision. Four chapters explore photomedical topics. This edition expands extensively on the 2002 edition. All chapters include appropriate references, and new chapters present emerging areas of photobiology, such as the role of the light-dependent magnetic compass in animal orientation. Teachers will appreciate a chapter that provides hints for laboratory experiments and demonstrations. The expertise of leading photobiologist Björn (emer., Lund Univ., Sweden) and the other authors is evident throughout the book. Though the chapters are authoritative, the writing is telegraphic in places and may discourage beginning students. Illustrations are well chosen, but the resolution of some graphs is poor; e.g., curves appear jagged. In comparing this work to related resources, the Digital Photobiology Compendium http://www.photobiology.info/ presents an introduction to photobiology, but Björn's book is more detailed, cohesive, and up-to-date. The excellent Handbook of Photosensory Receptors (2005) edited by Winslow Briggs and John Spudich is taxonomically broad, but it focuses on photoreceptors, omitting some general photobiology. (from Choice July 2008)

Ecology of insects: concepts and applications

Speight, Martin R. QL496.4 .S66 2008

For entomologists conducting research during the last 50 years, the landmark 1975 book Insect Ecology by P. W. Price (CH, Mar'76; 2nd ed., 1984; 3rd ed., 1997) was the first to provide a modern synthesis of this burgeoning area of biological investigation. Since that time, similar works have appeared, each considering recent advances and presenting unique perspectives. Using an evolutionary approach, Speight (Univ. of Oxford, UK), Hunter (Univ. of Michigan), and Watt (Center for Ecology and Hydrology, Edinburgh, UK), well-respected international insect ecologists, here consider the general ecological topics one would normally expect, incorporating the most up-to-date information available. The book is filled from cover to cover with intriguing examples and case studies; it also includes an interesting array of topics that might surprise the reader. This reviewer found the chapters "Biodiversity" and "Insect Conservation" particularly interesting. "Insects and Diseases" and "Insect Pest Management" offer insightful consideration into these complex, important topics. Eminently readable, this volume undoubtedly will be used as a course resource in many classrooms. It will prove to be an invaluable reference for a wide variety of entomologists and ecologists, and should be in all libraries with significant biological holdings. (from Choice January 2009)

How the immune system works

Sompayrac, Lauren. QR181 .S65 2008

Understanding the immune system is crucial for both medical and bioscience students, with new research revealing yet more secrets year on year. Many books offer in-depth introductions to the subject, but How the Immune System Works remains uniquely popular for its personable and practical overview of the nuts and bolts of the immune system.

This third edition provides a perfect introduction to the essential principles of the immune system, covered in humorous but highly informative 'lectures' accompanied by clear and accessible illustrations. It is perfect for exam preparation or as an enjoyable overview of a difficult subject. Both students and instructors will welcome the clarity and authority that Lauren Sompayrac brings to this timely revision.

Neuroscience of birdsong

Zeigler, H. Philip (Harris Philip), 1931- QL698.5 .N48 2008

Speech has long been thought of as a uniquely defining characteristic of humans. Yet song birds, like humans, communicate using learned signals (song, speech) that are acquired from their parents by a process of vocal imitation. Both song and speech begin as amorphous vocalizations (subsong, babble) that are gradually transformed into an individualized version of the parent’s speech, including dialects. With contributions from both the founding forefathers and younger researchers who represent the future of this field, this book provides a comprehensive summary of birdsong neurobiology, and identifies the common brain mechanisms underlying this achievement in both birds and humans. Written primarily for advanced graduates and researchers, there is an introductory overview covering song learning, the parallels between language and birdsong and the relationship between the brains of birds and mammals; subsequent sections deal with producing, processing, learning and recognizing song, as well as with hormonal and genomic mechanisms.

Stalking the plumed serpent and other adventures in herpetology

Means, D. Bruce. QL641 .M39 2007

The "plumed serpent" may actually represent the next new creature and accompanying new adventure sought by Means, a scientist, explorer, and conservationist. Here he relates his experiences with a large earthworm in Arkansas, a salamander in the Alabama hills, the majestic bushmaster snake of Central and South America, the taipan of Australia, and numerous others. As one reads these stories, one begins to feel the author's love of nature, even though he is writing of animals that are not most people's favorites. A major highlight of the book is Means's discussion of the eastern diamondback rattlesnake, of which he is an expert. His travels and adventures in Australia are delightful and informative. This reviewer had trouble putting the book down once he started. The work includes outstanding photographs and an excellent index. Valuable for anyone interested in natural history, herpetology, adventure, or a combination of these. (from Choice February 2009)

How hard is it to define behavior?  How difficult is it for a scientist that studies animal behavior?  You might be surprised.  Check out this New York Times article.

The least known of the world's three monotremes is slightly less of a mystery.

Read the the New York Times article.

Read the primary article in the Journal of Mammology.

"Garden snails are evolving slower metabolisms." reported by the BBC.

Check out the original article in Evolution. 

The universe in a mirror: the saga of the Hubble Telescope and the visionaries who built it
    Zimmerman, Robert, QB500.268 .Z56 2008

“The Hubble Space Telescope has produced the most stunning images of the cosmos humanity has ever seen. It has transformed our understanding of the universe around us, revealing new information about its age and evolution, the life cycle of stars, and the very existence of black holes, among other startling discoveries. The Universe in a Mirror tells the story of this telescope and the visionaries responsible for its extraordinary accomplishments.

Robert Zimmerman takes readers behind the scenes of one of the most ambitious scientific instruments ever sent into space. After World War II, astronomer Lyman Spitzer and a handful of scientists waged a fifty-year struggle to build the first space telescope capable of seeing beyond Earth's atmospheric veil. Zimmerman shows how many of the telescope's advocates sacrificed careers and family to get it launched, and how others devoted their lives to Hubble only to have their hopes and reputations shattered when its mirror was found to be flawed. This is the story of an idea that would not die--and of the dauntless human spirit. Illustrated with striking color images, The Universe in a Mirror describes the heated battles between scientists and bureaucrats, the perseverance of astronauts to repair and maintain the telescope, and much more. Hubble, and the men and women behind it, opened a rare window onto the universe, dazzling humanity with sights never before seen.

This book tells their remarkable story.”

Introduction to molecular thermodynamics
    Hanson, Robert M., QD504 .H33 2008

“This book takes readers on an adventure into the inner workings of the molecular world, following a logical step-by-step progression of ideas and examples from the field.  It helps readers understand the world around them in molecular terms. It features helpful pedagogy, including chapter ending-summaries, problems and brain teasers, with answers provided at the end of the book. It is filled with real-world examples ranging from casinos to lasers to endangered coral reefs.  Starting with just a few basic principles of probability and the distribution of energy, the book takes students on an adventure into the inner workings of the molecular world like no other, from probability to Gibbs energy and beyond, following a logical step-by-step progression of ideas.”

More information: http://www.stolaf.edu/depts/chemistry/imt/

Exoplanets: detection, formation, properties, habitability
    Mason, John, QB820 .E96 2008

“The first exoplanet was discovered only in 1995, but over 200 exoplanetary systems are now known and the field continues to advance rapidly. This edited volume, with chapters authored by some of the most prominent scientists in the field, is an invaluable introduction and reference on all key aspects of exoplanet research. 

The topics covered in Exoplanets include both theoretical work on the formation and orbital evolution of these systems, and current observational studies using a wide variety of detection and analytical techniques. In addition, this book

·         provides a state-of-the-art summary of developments in exoplanet research

·         examines the formation, dynamics and evolution of exoplanets

·         describes the variety of techniques used to detect exoplanets and discover their individual properties

·         explores the possibility that exoplanets and their moons will provide habitats for some form of life

Exoplanet research is a fast moving and exciting field, and this book is a welcome addition to the literature at present found only in journals. Exoplanets is suitable not only for professional astronomers, planetary scientists, and astrobiologists, but also for advanced undergraduate and graduate students in astrophysics, astrobiology and planetary science.”

People and the sky: our ancestors and the cosmos
    Aveni, Anthony F., QB44.3 .A94 2008

“Few of us can accurately identify the stars and constellations, the phases of the moon, or the hour and position of sunrise, but our forebears had an intimate relationship with the heavens. People and the Sky explores how ancient hunters, farmers, sailors, rulers, and storytellers were all once cosmically connected.

Anthony Aveni reveals how !Kung and Mursi hunter-gatherers depended on signals in the sky for their survival and sustenance; how master Polynesian sailors navigated a seemingly limitless watery world by star bearings; how social cohesion in cultures as diverse as the Pawnee and the Inca was mirrored in celestial imagery; and how the cosmic connection between the arrangement of Aztec and Chinese cities and the constellations served as an expression of political authority.

Through most of human history, people found meaning in the dance of the cosmic denizens. Today, many aspects of this intimate contact between daily life and what happens in the sky have disappeared. Did our ancestors have an understanding of the cosmos that we ourselves lack? How and why did it all happen? Aveni addresses these questions and more in this engaging and erudite book.”

Functional plant ecology
    Pugnaire, Francisco I., QK901 .H295 2007

“Following in the footsteps of the successful first edition, Functional Plant Ecology, Second Edition remains the most authoritative resource in this multidisciplinary field. Extensively revised and updated, this book investigates plant structure and behavior across the ecological spectrum. It features the ecology and evolution of plant crowns and addresses approaches to generalization in functional plant ecology, including the species-sampling problem, plant ecology strategy schemes, and phylogeny. The book follows a bottom-up approach, from the more specific, detailed studies focusing on plant organs to the broadest ecosystem approaches. It offers the latest findings and research breakthroughs in plant ecology, as well as consideration of classic topics in environmental science and ecology. A wide-ranging compendium, the book investigates plant structure and behavior across the ecological spectrum, from the leaf to the ecosystem levels.”

Pollen: the hidden sexuality of flowers
    Kesseler, Rob, QK658 .K47 2006 Oversize - 2nd floor - West side

“Pollen, the minute building block of plant life, contain firmaments of otherworldly beauty. Through the marvel of scanning electron photomicroscopy, and in collaboration with two renowned experts, visual artist Kesseler unveils the delicate artistry and vibrant wizardry of this horticultural workhorses in an incandescent blend of exacting science and extraordinary art. Carried by wind, water, birds, and bees, microscopic pollen grains embark on a remarkable journey to fertilize an awaiting plant. Harley writes of the evolution and diversity of pollen and the process of pollination with both the precision of an academic text and the poetry of a heartfelt homage. Whether interpreting the intricacies of symbiotic relationships or extolling the miracle of parthenogenesis, Harley patiently and precisely opens this hidden world to novices and serious students alike. Carol Haggas.” - From: Syndetics Solutions, Inc. Distributed by Syndetic Solutions, Inc.

A natural history of conifers
    Farjon, Aljos, QK494 .F36 2008

“Leading expert Aljos Farjon provides a broader perspective with this compelling narrative that observes conifers from the standpoint of the curious naturalist. It starts with the basic question of what conifers are and continues to explore their evolution, taxonomy, ecology, distribution, human uses, and issues of conservation. As the story unfolds many popular misconceptions are dispelled, such as the notion that all conifers have cones (untrue), and the extraordinary diversity of conifers begins to dawn as Farjon describes the diminutive creeping shrub Microcachrys tetragona, whose strange seed cones resemble raspberries, and the prehistoric-looking Araucaria meulleri.

The taxonomic diversity of conifers is huge and Farjon goes on to relate how, over the course of three 300 million years, these trees and shrubs have adapted to survive geological upheavals, climatic extremes, and formidable competition from flowering plants. Scarcely less remarkable is his explanation of how conifers, with only 627 species, grew to occupy every continent on earth ranging from the high latitudes to the tropics.”

Quicksilver: a history of the use, lore and effects of mercury
    Swiderski, Richard M., RM666 .M5 S95 2008

“Though modern scientists recognize mercury as a harmful environmental pollutant and one of the world's most dangerous elemental toxins, mercury was once considered a wondrous substance capable of eradicating internal disease, revolutionizing the paint and cosmetics industries and even entertaining the masses as part of amateur magic tricks and witch doctor scams.

This work traces the history of mercury in popular culture, beginning in the early eighteenth century when Dr. Thomas Dover, nicknamed ‘Dr. Quicksilver,’ began prescribing doses of raw mercury to clear out intestinal blockages and rid the body of syphilis and other diseases. The author then details the role of mercury in several medical, industrial, and cultural applications. In the fields of dentistry and vaccination, mercury continues to be used as a preservative and amalgamative agent. In the cosmetics industry, mercury was once used as a popular ‘skin lightener’ in soaps and skin creams. In the early development of obstetrics and gynecology, mercury was once used to stimulate conception and fetal abortion. These uses of mercury, along with many more, are outlined in the work, while several appendices provide translations of rare works which reference mercury.”

DNA interactions with polymers and surfactants
    Lindman, Björn, QP624 .D144 2008

“Due to the potential benefits of biotechnology, interest in the interaction between DNA and surfactants and polymers has become increasingly significant. Now, DNA Interactions with Polymers and Surfactants provides an extensive, up-to-date overview of the subject, giving readers a basis for understanding the factors leading to complexation between DNA and different cosolutes, including metal ions, polyelectrolytes, spermine, spermidine, surfactants and lipids, and proteins.”

Fullerenes: principles and applications
    Langa, F., QD181 .C1 F855 2007

“The discovery of caged carbon structures, in 1985, established a whole new field of carbon chemistry. Unlike graphite and diamond, these structures known as fullerenes are finite in structure and are relevant to a wide variety of fields including supramolecular assemblies, nanostructures, optoelectronic devices and a whole range of biological activities.

Fullerenes: Principles and Applications discusses all aspects of this exciting field. Sections include: the basic principles for the chemical reactivity of fullerenes, electrochemistry, light induced processes, fullerenes for material sciences, fullerenes and solar cells, biological applications and multifunctional carbon nanotube materials. Written by leading experts in the field the book summarises the basic principles of fullerene chemistry but also highlights some of the most remarkable advances that have occurred in recent years.”

It's Batman's 70th birthday and Cowles has a small exhibit in the first floor cases near the entrance.   Learn the story of his true origins (Bird-Man?).  See Japanese Batman battle Professor Gorilla.    Gaze in amazement at the genius of Adam West and his questionable Batman costume of the 60s.  Stare in horror as the fate of Robin is decided by the readers . . . who decide to go ahead and blow him up.

What bugged the dinosaurs? : insects, disease, and death in the Cretaceous
    Poinar, George O., QE720 .P65 2008

"[A] detailed study of insects' role in the life and extinction of Cretaceous plants and animals. In scientific but straightforward language, the Poinars advance convincingly the thesis that insects acted as vectors for pathogens, spreading bacteria, fungi and viruses to plants as well as dinosaurs, who then passed it on to others. Using current examples like Dutch elm disease, speculative scenarios of Cretaceous life and plenty of research data, the authors add an intriguing new dimension to the dinosaur apocalypse narrative: periods of temperature change, marine regression, volcanic eruptions, and one or more meteor impacts. . . . A perfect setting for the spread of diseases."--Publishers Weekly

Structure and function in cell signalling
    Nelson, John, QP517 .C45 N45 2008

Richly illustrated with full-color molecular graphics (created by RasMol, a freeware molecular visualization program), Structure and Function in Cell Signaling provides a clear, engaging introduction to signal transduction. Each of the book's 10 chapters includes tables and charts in color to illustrate signal transduction pathways and genetic relationships between signal transduction molecules. Nelson (Queens Univ. Belfast, UK) provides enough background information to make this complex subject accessible even to beginning students. Readers can easily re-create all of the molecular graphics for themselves in an interactive format by following simple instructions included in the appendix. Signal transduction has applications in all of the biological sciences. Thus, students in cell biology, biochemistry, immunology, molecular genetics, and other life sciences will all find much valuable information in this work. Summing Up: Highly recommended. Academic libraries, all levels. -- C. A. Klevickis, James Madison University (Choice, February 2009)

Bird song: biological themes and variations
    Catchpole, Clive, QL698.5 .C38 2008

“Bird Song has long been an inspiration to poets, and a delight to many other people, but why do birds sing? Bird song has been studied extensively in the past few decades, so that there is now hardly an area of animal behaviour on to which studies of song do not shed light. This book explores the study of bird song from the biological viewpoint, reviewing the literature written on the subject and considering its intricate nature. It is written with a wide readership in mind so that, while undergraduate and postgraduate students of biology may gain particularly from it, both professional biologists interested in bird behaviour and amateur ornithologists with some knowledge of biology will also find it a mine of information.”

Malformed frogs: the collapse of aquatic ecosystems
    Lannoo, Michael J., QL668 .E2 L298 2008

“The widespread appearance of frogs with deformed bodies has generated much press coverage over the past decade. Frogs with extra limbs or digits, missing limbs or digits, or misaligned appendages raise an alarming question: "Are deformed humans next?" Taking a fresh look at this disturbing environmental problem, this reference provides a balanced overview of the science behind the malformed frog phenomenon. Bringing together data from ecology, parasitology, and other disciplines, Michael Lannoo considers the possible causes of these deformities, tells which frogs have been affected, and addresses questions about what these malformations might mean to human populations. Featuring high-quality radiographic images, Malformed Frogs suggests that our focus should be on finding practical solutions, a key component of which will be controlling chemical, nutrient, and pesticide runoff into wetlands.”

Superdove: how the pigeon took Manhattan-- and the world
    Humphries, Courtney, QL696 .C63 H86 2008 Browsing collection - Ground floor

“Why do we see pigeons as lowly urban pests and how did they become such common city dwellers? Courtney Humphries traces the natural history of the pigeon, recounting how these shy birds that once made their homes on the sparse cliffs of sea coasts came to dominate our urban public spaces. While detailing this evolution, Humphries introduces us to synanthropy: The concept that animals can become dependent on humans without ceasing to be wild; they can adapt to the cityscape as if it were a field or a forest.

Superdove simultaneously explores the pigeon's cultural transformation, from its life in the dovecotes of ancient Egypt to its service in the trenches of World War I, to its feats within the pigeon-racing societies of today. While the dove is traditionally recognized as a symbol of peace, the pigeon has long inspired a different sort of fetishistic devotion from breeders, eaters, and artists—and from those who recognized and exploited the pigeon's astounding abilities. Because of their fecundity, pigeons were symbols of fertility associated with Aphrodite, while their keen ability to find their way home made them ideal messengers and even pilots.

Their usefulness largely forgotten, today's pigeons have become as ubiquitous and reviled as rats. But Superdove reveals something more surprising: By using pigeons for our own purposes, we humans have changed their evolution. And in doing so, we have helped make pigeons the ideal city dwellers they are today. In the tradition of Rats, the book that made its namesake rodents famous, Superdove is the fascinating story of the pigeon's journey from the wild to the city—the home they'll never leave.”

Urban ants of North America and Europe: identification, biology, and management
    Klotz, John H., QL568 .F7 U725 2008

“Ants that commonly invade homes, damage structures, inflict painful bites, or sting humans or their pets are considered pest ants. This illustrated identification guide highlights forty species of ants that pose difficulties in urban settings. Included are well-known invasive troublemakers such as the red imported fire ant and Argentine ant, as well as native species.

After an introductory chapter on the evolution, biology, and ecology of pest ants, the book follows a taxonomic arrangement by subfamily. Each subfamily chapter includes separate illustrated keys to both the genera and species of that group to enable entomologists and pest control professionals to identify pest ants correctly. The species accounts cover biology, distribution, and methods for excluding and/or removing ants from human structures and landscapes. The authors focus on the ants' biology and nesting behavior, life cycles, and feeding preferences; an intimate understanding of these factors enables the implementation of the least toxic control methods available.

A chapter on control principles and techniques encompasses chemical strategies, habitat and structural modifications, biological control, and integrated pest management methods. Urban Ants of North America and Europe also contains valuable information on the diagnosis and treatment of human reactions to ant stings and bites. This comprehensive reference work on these economically significant ants includes the scientific, English, French, Spanish, and German names for each species and a summary of invasive ant species in the United States and Europe.”

The control of childbirth: women versus medicine through the ages
Brodsky, Phyllis L., RG51 .B76 2008

When childbirth moved from women's homes into hospitals women lost more than they had bargained for. As the event became increasingly male-dominated and medically oriented, women's control of the experience all but vanished. Worse, recent clinical trials have demonstrated that most modern interventions and technological practices have not improved delivery outcomes and are not necessary in normal labor and birth. From pre-classical to present times, this work describes childbirth practices as they have developed through the ages. The author describes and critiques the evolution of modern midwifery and obstetrics, focusing especially on how, why, and when the process of childbirth became an increasingly sterile, male-dominated, and medically oriented event. Each chapter focuses on a different period, from the age of the female midwife (who oversaw the childbirth process for several centuries), through the origins of modern obstetrics and gynecology, and finally, to the increasing influence of technology in the practices that have prevailed for most of the twentieth and twenty-first centuries.

Flesh and blood: organ transplantation and blood transfusion in twentieth-century America
Lederer, Susan E., RD120.7 .L42 2008

Review in The New England Journal of Medicine http://content.nejm.org/cgi/content/full/359/10/1079

How to publish in biomedicine: 500 tips for success
Fraser, Jane, R119 .F73 2008

“Getting published is crucial for success in biomedicine. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced writer, you will find this book has fresh, practical tips on everyday issues. Based on the author's renowned courses at the University of Oxford, this book answers the questions writers actually ask, in a clear, concise and easy-to-read style. It comprehensively covers: * What to write * How biomedical publishing works * How to write scientific papers, abstracts, review articles and book chapters * How to write clearly, concisely and correctly * How to write efficiently and more effectively * Internet resources This bestselling guide is highly recommended for all professionals and students in biomedical disciplines, including doctors, PhD and post-doctorate students, lecturers and researchers in medicine, physiology, biochemistry, molecular biology and pharmacology. It is also offers vital guidance for researchers in pharmaceutical, biotech and medical device companies, including veterinary, agricultural and medical sectors. Professional writers and editors will also find it enlightening.” – From Doody’s Review Service

Emerging infections: an atlas of investigation and management
Salata, Robert A., RC113.2 .S35 2008 Oversize - 2nd floor - West side

“The infection specialist remains at the front line of medical practice, not only for newly emerging diseases, but also due to the worrying occurrence of re-emerging infections. An expert editorial team from the Case Western Reserve University Department of Medicine has brought together a panel of contributors to produce this beautifully illustrated guide to the major infectious diseases that a clinician is likely to meet. Key topics covered include avian influenza, SARS and hMPV; other viral infections such as hepatitis and HIV/AIDS; infectious agents responsible for diarrhoeal disease in Western and developing countries; and other infectious diseases such as malaria and tuberculosis. Each chapter is comprehensively illustrated with photographs, images and charts, distilling the authors' extensive expertise and experience. This atlas will be an essential aid for any infection specialist and any practising physician who is called upon to treat infectious disease.”

Real world drug discovery: a chemist's guide to biotech and pharmaceutical research
Rydzewski, Robert M., RM301.25 .R93 2008

“Real World Drug Discovery: A Chemists Guide to Biotech and Pharmaceutical Research presents this kind of map of the landscape of drug discovery. In a single, readable volume it outlines processes and explains essential concepts and terms for the recent science graduate wondering what to expect in pharma or biotech, the medicinal chemist seeking a broader and more timely understanding of the industry, or the contractor or collaborator whose understanding of the commercial drug discovery process could increase the value of his contribution to it.

Key Features:

- Interviews with well-known experts in many of the fields involved, giving insightful comments from authorities on many of the sub-disciplines important to cutting edge drug discovery.

- Helpful suggestions gleaned from years of experience in biotech and pharma, which represents a repository drug discovery "lore" not previously available in any book.

- "Periodic Table of Drugs" listing current top-selling drugs arranged by target and laid out so that structural similarities and differences are plain and clear, with regular updates available at the book's website.

- Extensive use of diagrams to illustrate concepts like biotech startup models, preteomic profiling for target identification, Gantt charts for project planning, etc.”

Overtreated: why too much medicine is making us sicker and poorer
Brownlee, Shannon., RA395 .A3 B785 2007

JAMA book review http://jama.ama-assn.org/cgi/content/full/298/17/2071

Evolution in health and disease
Stearns, Stephen C., RB155 .E96 2008

“In this fully revised and updated edition, the editors have integrated a completely new set of contributions from the leading researchers in the field to describe the latest research in evolutionary medicine, providing a fresh summary of this rapidly expanding field 10 years after its predecessor was first compiled. It continues to adopt a broad approach to the subject, drawing on medically relevant research from evolutionary genetics, human behavioural ecology, evolutionary microbiology (especially experimental evolution of virulence and resistance), the evolution of aging and degenerative disease, and other aspects of biology or medicine where evolutionary approaches make important contributions. Evolution in Health and Disease describes how evolutionary thinking gives valuable insights and fresh perspectives into human health and disease, establishing evolutionary biology as an essential complementary science for medicine. Integrating evolutionary thought into medical research and practice helps to explain the origins of many medical conditions, including diabetes, obesity, cardiovascular disease, asthma, allergies, other autoimmune diseases, and aging. It also provides life-saving insights into the evolutionary responses of pathogens to antibiotics, vaccinations, and other human interventions. Why do we grow old? How can we stay healthy as we age? The book discusses these and many other fascinating questions, as well as suggesting exciting possibilities for future treatment and research. This research level text is suitable for graduate level students and researchers in the fields of evolutionary (Darwinian) medicine, evolutionary biology, anthropology, developmental biology and genetics. It will also be of relevance and use to medical researchers and doctors.” – From Doody’s Review Service