Science & Nature Books

Book SynopsisThis spectacular field guide includes all resident, breeding and migrant species found in Greater Southern Africa.Comprising South Africa, Lesotho, eSwatini, Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Malawi, Mozambique and Zambia, Greater Southern Africa is a vast region home to a truly extraordinary diversity of avifauna.The latest in the Helm Field Guide series, Birds of Greater Southern Africa describes all 1,170 regularly occurring species that are likely to be encountered in the region, from the Wandering Albatross to the Pennant-winged Nightjar. Featuring 272 colour plates by three of the world's leading bird illustrators, this practical guide also includes concise species accounts describing key identification features, status, range, habitat and voice; distribution maps for each species are also included.Fully illustrated throughout, this is an essential reference guide for anyone visiting or living in this wildlife-rich area.

Read more less

Book SynopsisMorocco’s proximity and the variety of its habitats and bird species make it a favoured destination for birders. It is home to rare and endangered species such as Bald Ibis, Dark Chanting Goshawk, Tawny Eagle, Eleonora’s Falcon and African Marsh Owl. 454 species have been recorded, of which 209 breed in the country. As this statistic implies, millions of West European migrants pass seasonally through Morocco. Several wetlands spread along the Atlantic coast are famous for their migrant and wintering waders and gulls. The Atlas ranges are notable for their avifauna and desert species, including larks, wheatears and sandgrouses are found in the Saharan rim. This authoritative book describes over 50 birdwatching sites across Morocco. This book is not a field guide to species, rather it is a guide to the sites of key ornithological importance in Morocco. It contains information and detailed maps to enable you to plan a visit and provide guidance when you are on your trip. In addition, the book provides an overview of travel in Morocco, information about climate and habitats, when to go, and a full checklist of species. This book is a reprint of The Prion Birdwatchers’ Guide to Morocco (2nd Edition, 2003, ISBN: 1871104092).

Read more less

Book SynopsisPaul G. Hewitt Becoming a physics instructor and textbook authordidn't seem a likely outcome of my earlier years. I grew up in Saugus (nearBoston), Massachusetts. In my high school years, an influential counselorconvinced me that I wouldn't have to take academic courses due to my talent forart. My passions at the time were drawing comic strips, rink roller-skating,and especially boxing, which helped repel school bullies. At age 17, I won thesilver medal of the New England Amateur Athletic Union in the 112-pound class.Shortly after that, I delivered newspapers, painted signs, and learnedsilk-screen printing in Boston, where I met life-long friend Ernie Brown, whoinfluenced me to spend two winters with him in Miami, Florida. I dedicated theeleventh edition of Conceptual Physics to Ernie. In 1953, during the Koreanconflict, I was abruptly drafted into the Army. I was fortunate, however, thatthe war ended on my last day of basic training at Camp Carson iTable of ContentsAbout Science Part One: MECHANICS Newton's First Law of Motion: Inertia Linear Motion Newton's Second Law of Motion Newton's Third Law of Motion Momentum Energy Rotational Motion Gravity Projectile and Satellite Motion Part Two: PROPERTIES OF MATTER The Atomic Nature of Matter Solids Liquids Gases Part Three: HEAT Temperature, Heat, and Expansion Heat Transfer Change of Phase Thermodynamics Part Four: SOUND Vibrations and Waves Sound Musical Sounds Part Five: ELECTRICITY AND MAGNETISM Electrostatics Electric Current Magnetism Electromagnetic Induction Part Six: LIGHT Properties of Light Color Reflection and Refraction Light Waves Light Emission Light Quanta Part Seven: ATOMIC AND NUCLEAR PHYSICS The Atom and the Quantum Atomic Nucleus and Radioactivity Nuclear Fission and Fusion Part Eight: RELATIVITY Special Theory of Relativity General Theory of Relativity Author Profile Appendices A. On Measurement and Unit Conversions B. More About Motion C. Graphing D. Vector Applications E. Exponential Growth and Doubling Time Odd-Numbered Answers Glossary Credits Index

Read more less

Book SynopsisThis is a book about how ecologists can integrate remote sensing and GIS in their research. It will allow readers to get started with the application of remote sensing and to understand its potential and limitations. Using practical examples, the book covers all necessary steps from planning field campaigns to deriving ecologically relevant information through remote sensing and modelling of species distributions. An Introduction to Spatial Data Analysis introduces spatial data handling using the open source software Quantum GIS (QGIS). In addition, readers will be guided through their first steps in the R programming language. The authors explain the fundamentals of spatial data handling and analysis, empowering the reader to turn data acquired in the field into actual spatial data. Readers will learn to process and analyse spatial data of different types and interpret the data and results. After finishing this book, readers will be able to address questions such as “What is the distance to the border of the protected area?”, “Which points are located close to a road?”, “Which fraction of land cover types exist in my study area?” using different software and techniques. This book is for novice spatial data users and does not assume any prior knowledge of spatial data itself or practical experience working with such data sets. Readers will likely include student and professional ecologists, geographers and any environmental scientists or practitioners who need to collect, visualize and analyse spatial data. The software used is the widely applied open source scientific programs QGIS and R. All scripts and data sets used in the book will be provided online at book.ecosens.org. This book covers specific methods including: what to consider before collecting in situ data how to work with spatial data collected in situ the difference between raster and vector data how to acquire further vector and raster data how to create relevant environmental information how to combine and analyse in situ and remote sensing data how to create useful maps for field work and presentations how to use QGIS and R for spatial analysis how to develop analysis scripts Table of ContentsPreface 1. Introduction and overview 1.1 Spatial data 1.2 First spatial data analysis 1.3 Next steps Part I. Data acquisition, data preparation and map creation 2. Data acquisition 2.1 Spatial data for a research question 2.2 AOI 2.3 Thematic raster map acquisition 2.4 Thematic vector map acquisition 2.5 Satellite sensor data acquisition 2.6 Summary and further reading 3. Data preparation 3.1 Deciding on a projection 3.2 Reprojecting raster and vector layers 3.3 Clipping to an AOI 3.4 Stacking raster layers 3.5 Visualizing a raster stack as RGB 3.6 Summary and further reading 4. Creating maps 4.1 Maps in QGIS 4.2 Maps for presentations 4.3 Maps with statistical information 4.4 Common mistakes and recommendations 4.5 Summary and further reading Part II. Spatial field data acquisition and auxiliary data 5. Field data planning and preparation 5.1 Field sampling strategies 5.2 From GIS to global positioning system (GPS) 5.3 On-screen digitization 5.4 Summary and further reading6. Field sampling using a global positioning system (GPS) 97 6.1 GPS in the field 98 6.2 GPX from GPS 101 6.3 Summary 102 7. From global positioning system (GPS) to geographic information system (GIS) 103 7.1 Joint coordinates and measurement sheet 104 7.2 Separate coordinates and measurement sheet 105 7.3 Point measurement to information 106 7.4 Summary 108 Part III. Data analysis and new spatial information 8. Vector data analysis 110 8.1 Percentage area covered 114 8.2 Spatial distances 118 8.3 Summary and further analyses 121 9. Raster analysis 122 9.1 Spectral landscape indices 122 9.2 Topographic indices 128 9.3 Spectral landscape categories 128 9.4 Summary and further analysis 133 10. Raster-vector intersection 134 10.1 Point statistics 135 10.2 Zonal statistics 136 10.3 Summary 138 Part IV. Spatial coding 11. Introduction to coding 140 11.1 Why use the command line and what is ‘R’? 140 11.2 Getting started 142 11.3 Your very first command 142 11.4 Classes of data 144 11.5 Data indexing (subsetting) 145 11.6 Importing and exporting data 147 11.7 Functions 148 11.8 Loops 149 11.9 Scripts 149 11.10 Expanding functionality 150 11.11 Bugs, problems and challenges 151 11.12 Notation 152 11.13 Summary and further reading 15212. Getting started with spatial coding 153 12.1 Spatial data in R 153 12.2 Importing and exporting data 158 12.3 Modifying spatial data 162 12.4 Downloading spatial data from within R 166 12.5 Organization of spatial analysis scripts 170 12.6 Summary 171 13. Spatial analysis in R 172 13.1 Vegetation indices 172 13.2 Digital elevation model (DEM) derivatives 174 13.3 Classification 175 13.4 Raster-vector interaction 179 13.5 Calculating and saving aggregated values 182 13.6 Summary and further reading 184 14. Creating graphs in R 185 14.1 Aggregated environmental information 185 14.2 Non-aggregated environmental information 189 14.3 Finalizing and saving the plot 194 14.4 Summary and further reading 195 15. Creating maps in R 196 15.1 Vector data 197 15.2 Plotting study area data 202 15.3 Summary and further reading 206 Afterword and acknowledgements 207 References 209 Index 210

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisTells the story of the search for a rocket propellant which could be trusted to take man into space. Acclaimed scientist and sci-fi author John D. Clark writes with irreverent and eyewitness immediacy about the development of the explosive fuels strong enough to negate the relentless restraints of gravity.Trade Review"This insider's account of the early years of rocketry captures the excitement of researching and developing technologies that lie outside the realm of computer science. While we're accustomed to think of technological progress in terms of Moore's law, in a few short years these engineers went from launching metal tubes small enough to hold in your hand to propelling a two ton metal capsule containing three humans all the way to the moon."— Inc., 9 Powerful Books Elon Musk Recommends "A good book on rocket stuff...that's a really fun one." — Elon Musk "Ignition! is a history of liquid rocket propellants, but it's also a history of cold war and the space race, told from a particular point of view....That humor helps the accessibility, and as long as you remember some high school chemistry you shouldn't have a problem with the science either."— Ars Technica "Ignition!, originally written in 1972, is back in print after a long hiatus. A classic book, it tells a rollicking story of an era when space was the frontier. An informative history, it reads like an adventure story."— Galveston County Daily News "Read this book. You’ll find plenty about John and all the other sky-high crackpots who were in the field with him and you may even get (as I did) a glimpse of the heroic excitement that seemed to make it reasonable to cuddle with death every waking moment—to say nothing of learning a heck of a lot about the way in which the business of science is really conducted." — Issac Asimov, from the foreword "Ignition! is a hard-to-get-your-hands-on account of early rocket science...Clark was an American chemist active in the development of rocket fuels back in the 1960s and 1970s, and the book is both an account of the growth of the field and an explainer of how the science works." — Business InsiderTable of ContentsContents In Re John D. Clark - foreword by Issac Asimov Preface 1 How It Started 2 Peenemunde and JPL 3 The Hunting of the Hypergol . . . 4 . . . and Its Mate 5 Peroxide – Always a Bridesmaid 6 Halogens and Politics and Deep Space 7 Performance 8 Lox and Flox and Cryogenics in General 9 What Ivan Was Doing 10 “Exotics” 11 The Hopeful Monoprops 12 High Density and the Higher Foolishness 13 What Happens Next Glossary Index

Read more less

Book SynopsisLonglisted for the RUNCIMAN AWARD, 2021Medicine is one of the great fields of achievement of the Ancient Greeks. Hippocrates is celebrated worldwide as the father of medicine and the Hippocratic Oath is admired throughout the medical profession as a founding statement of ethics and ideals. In the fifth century BC, Greeks even wrote of medicine as a newly discovered craft they had invented.Robin Lane Fox''s remarkable book puts their invention of medicine in a wider context, from the epic poems of Homer to the first doctors known to have been active in the Greek world. He examines what we do and do not know about Hippocrates and his Oath and the many writings that survive under his name. He then focuses on seven core texts which give the case histories of named individuals, showing that books 1 and 3 belong far earlier than previously recognised. Their re-dating has important consequences for the medical awareness of the great Greek dramatists and the historians Herodotus and Thucydides. Robin Lane Fox pieces together the doctor''s thinking from his terse observations and relates it in a new way to the history of Greek prose and ideas.This original and compelling book opens windows onto many other aspects of the classical world, from women''s medicine to street-life, empire, art, sport, sex and even botany. It fills a dark decade in a new way and carries readers along an extraordinary journey form Homer''s epics to the grateful heirs of the Greek case histories, first in the Islamic world and then in early modern Europe.Trade ReviewIn this engaging history by the biographer of Alexander the Great, lightened with wry donnish wit... readers can enjoy a vivid ride through a part of Greece little visited in either body or mind. -- Peter Stothard * Financial Times *an exciting addition to a flurry of books on ancient medicine in recent years ... Lane Fox, who is known for his originality and his exceptionally broad interests as a historian, which range from Alexander the Great to Augustine, built The Invention of Medicine: From Homer to Hippocrates on a decades' worth of impressive scholarship ... His account of early Greek medicine is an engaging, well informed introduction to the complex reality of the world of healing in ancient Greece. Drawing on as many sources as possible, yet making complex data accessible to a wide audience, Lane Fox describes the skills of doctors and the experiences of their patients with gusto ... groundbreaking -- Caroline Petit * The Lancet *My favourite book from our lock-down times is The Invention of Medicine by Robin Lane Fox, a great Oxford classicist's contribution to the most needed discipline of the day. By original and skilful argument, it shows how some of the direct observations attributed to Hippocrates, the 'father of medicine', dated by him earlier than most of us had thought before, influenced Thucydides and other writers at the very birth of reasoned history. -- Peter Stothard * Aspects of History Books of the Year *a most welcome contribution to this ever-growing field by one of today's most eminent voices in ancient history. In his latest book, Robin Lane Fox, probably best known for his work on Alexander the Great and Augustine, offers a refreshing and at points ground-breaking revision of the beginnings of ancient Greek medicine ... In his attempt to disentangle and revise the 'invention of medicine' as a highly complex and multifaceted phenomenon in early medical history Robin Lane Fox succeeds brilliantly in constructing a narrative that is, at the same time, innovative and introductive, informative and entertaining, thoroughly historical yet with the occasional contemporary twist. Writing in an accessible style, aimed at both a general and informed readership and abounding in donnish wit, Lane Fox takes his reader on a scholarly joyride -- Michiel Meeusen * Bryn Mawr Classical Review *Radically, Lane Fox is keen to date Books One and Three of the Epidemics very early in the story of the development of Greek medicine, much earlier than anyone else has done ... The case is ingenious ... He knows how to pace a narrative and he has a raconteur's eye for detail. -- Alastair Blanshard * Times Literary Supplement *Lane Fox leads us down intriguing paths of epigraphy, political history, philology and archaeology -- James Romm * London Review of Books *Robin Lane Fox's remarkable The Invention of Medicine brings to vivid life the island city of Thasos in the fifth century bc, when it was home to the author of books of case studies now called Epidemics I and 3, whose details are so forensic that we can diagnose his patients' ailments and pinpoint their addresses in the modern city. Around these works Lane Fox weaves a compelling history of Greek medicine, before arguing that they betray such scientific rigour that their author can be none other than Hippocrates himself. -- David Stuttard * Aspects of History Books of the Year *

Read more less

Book SynopsisStretch yourself to achieve the highest grades, with structured syllabus coverage, varied exam-style questions and annotated sample answers, to help you to build the essential skill set for exam success.- Benefit from expert advice and tips on skills and knowledge from experienced subject authors- Effectively manage your revision with a brand-new introduction that clearly outlines what is expected from you in the exam- Keep track of your own progress with a handy revision planner- Use the new glossary-index section to identify and address gaps in knowledge- Consolidate and apply your understanding of key content and skills with short ''Test yourself'' and exam-style questions

Read more less

Book SynopsisDELVE INTO THE SCIENCE BEHIND YOUR PRACTICE WITH THIS ESSENTIAL AND PRACTICAL GUIDE TO MEDITATION ''This is a book that really can change your life'' Arianna Huffington, author of the New York Times bestseller The Sleep RevolutionMeditation is fascinating, but often it feels elusive. How can simple exercises change your mental state? How can focussing your breathing lead to changes in your personality? For the first time, Harvard collaborators Daniel Goleman and Richard Davidson share the science behind the practice. Drawing on cutting edge research and sweeping away common misconceptions, they show how to improve your technique, how smart practice can cultivate selflessness, equanimity, love and compassion, and even redesign our neural circuitry.Whether you''re a beginner or have meditated for years, bring mindfulness and meditation into your life with an essential read for the world we live in now. ''A happy synthesis of the authors'' remarkable careers.'' Jon Kabat-Zinn, author of Full Catastrophe Living and Mindfulness for BeginnersTrade ReviewThis is a book that really can change your life. Daniel Goleman and Richard Davidson not only show the power of meditation, but also the smartest way to practice for the maximum possible benefit. The Science of Meditation is your roadmap to a more mindful, compassionate, fulfilling life - who doesn't want that? -- Arianna Huffington, author of the ‘New York Times’ best seller ‘The Sleep Revolution’A happy synthesis of the authors' remarkable careers, which grew from the intuition they shared as students that there was something deep and transformative about meditation, The Science of Meditation tells the story of what has been discovered since and why it matters critically at this moment on the planet -- Jon Kabat-Zinn, author of 'Full Catastrophe Living' and 'Mindfulness for Beginners'The definitive book on the science of meditation. Rigorously researched and deeply illuminating, The Science of Meditation is a must-read for anyone interested in the hidden potential of the human mind -- Daniel Gilbert, PhD, author of the New York Times bestseller 'Stumbling on Happiness'This exquisite duet between a down-to-earth science writer and path-breaking neuroscientist is a tour-de-force, revealing how training the mind can transform the brain and our sense of self, inspiring us to create a greater sense of well-being, meaning, and connection in our world. Bravo! -- Daniel J. Siegel, M.D., author of the ‘New York Times’ best sellers, ‘Mind’ and ‘Brainstorm’Here is a message that is both powerful and joyful. Daniel Goleman and Richard Davidson reveal groundbreaking science showing how mindfulness and compassion practices can help each of us individually and thus the entire planet. One of the most exciting books I have read! -- Chade-Meng Tan, author of the 'New York Times' bestsellers, 'Joy on Demand' and 'Search Inside Yourself'In this engaging and well-researched book, Goleman and Davidson help us sort out the many claims now being made about the benefits of meditation. Drawing on their own long personal meditative experience and the ever increasing number of scientific studies, The Science of Meditation breaks new ground in illuminating the power of meditation to transform our lives -- Joseph Goldstein, author of 'Mindfulness: A Practical Guide to Awakening'A remarkable collaboration between two brilliant and courageous pioneers, The Science of Meditation shares the scientific basis and practical realities of the remarkable impact meditation has on altering the mind. As I have personally experienced, regular meditation practice brings compassion, calm, and clarity for all of us, from beginners to experienced practitioners -- Bill George, Senior Fellow, Harvard Business School; former Chair & CEO, Medtronic; and author of 'Discover Your True North'Impressive in its scope and depth, staggering in its implications -- Jon Kabat-Zinn, PhD on 'Emotional Intelligence'Don't miss this smart and lively book by the world's foremost expert on emotion and the brain -- Daniel Gilbert, PhD on 'The Emotional Life of Your Brain'Goleman uses the emerging science of neuro-sociology to show how priming our brains for meaningful connectivity with others can make the world a better place . . . Fascinating * Sunday Telegraph on 'Social Intelligence' *Sure to provoke oodles of debate about declining attention spans in the young * Bookseller on 'Focus' *

Read more less

Book SynopsisHow many days are there between full moons - think you know? Is there an ancient key to the calendar hidden in stone circles? What is the magical secret of the Sun-Moon-Earth system? If you have ever wondered about eclipses, tides or the seasons, this amazing little book by acknowledged time-lord Robin Heath will quickly introduce you to the astonishing beauty of the primary cycles around this planet. Advanced wizarding at its best! “Timeless” RESURGENCE. "Fascinating" FINANCIAL TIMES. "Beautiful" LONDON REVIEW OF BOOKS. "Rich and Artful" THE LANCET. "Genuinely mind-expanding" FORTEAN TIMES. "Excellent" NEW SCIENTIST. "Stunning" NEW YORK TIMES. Small books, big ideas.

Read more less

Book SynopsisDespite the growing interest in olive oil, most people know very little about what it is or how it is made. This book provides a comprehensive treatment of olive oil from the tree to table, from a molecular and personal perspective. Growers often do not know what is happening at a molecular level or why certain practices produce superior or inferior results, for example, why adjusting a temperature rewards them with winning oils. This book aims to provide some of the answers as well as the importance of the chemicals responsible for the flavour and health effects. Readers will also get a deeper understanding of what makes an extra virgin olive oil authentic and how scientists are helping to fight fraud regarding this valuable commodity. Including anecdotes from growers of olives and producers of oils, the authors provide an accessible text for a wide audience from food science students to readers interested in the human story of olive oil production.Table of ContentsOlive Origins; The Beginning of a Grove: Planting the Trees; The Tree Through the Year; Season's End: Harvesting the Fruit; Processing: The Most Important Hour; Delivering Quality and Assuring Authenticity; Good Taste is Required; Health Effects: But is Olive Oil Good for You?; 1001 Uses for Olive Oil; Sustainability

Read more less

Book SynopsisFrom gravity to black holes, special relativity to global warming, this authoritative and entertaining book from bestselling author Marcus Chown breaks down complex science into manageable chunks, explaining the one thing you really need to know to get to grips with the subject.Rather than trying to bend your mind around all the vast and confounding details of things such as gravitational waves, electricity and black holes, wouldn’t it be easier to understand just one central concept from which everything else follows?If you’ve ever found yourself fascinated by the idea of quantum computing but feel a little overwhelmed by the mindblowing subject of quantum mechanics or concerned by climate change but haven’t been able to get to grips with the details of global warming, this book is for you. Let’s take atoms, for example – what on earth are they? Well, if you start to think of them less like things you can’t see with complex little nuclei and more like the alphabet of nature, which in different configurations can make a rose, a galaxy or a newborn baby, they might start to feel a little more understandable. Or gravitational waves – they sound poetic, but why are they creating so much excitement? Think of them as the voice of space, vibrations on the drumskin of space-time – before delving into all their complexities. In twenty-one short and engaging chapters, Chown explains the one thing you need to know to understand some of the most important scientific ideas of our time. Packed full of astounding facts, scientific history and the entertaining personalities at the heart of the most pivotal discoveries about the workings of our universe, this is an accessible guide to all the tricky stuff you’ve always wanted to understand more about.

Read more less

Book SynopsisOne of our great contemporary scientists reveals the ten profound insights that illuminate what everyone should know about the physical worldIn Fundamentals, Nobel laureate Frank Wilczek offers the reader a simple yet profound exploration of reality based on the deep revelations of modern science. With clarity and an infectious sense of joy, he guides us through the essential concepts that form our understanding of what the world is and how it works. Through these pages, we come to see our reality in a new way--bigger, fuller, and stranger than it looked before.Synthesizing basic questions, facts, and dazzling speculations, Wilczek investigates the ideas that form our understanding of the universe: time, space, matter, energy, complexity, and complementarity. He excavates the history of fundamental science, exploring what we know and how we know it, while journeying to the horizons of the scientific world to give us a glimpse of what we may soon discover. Brilliant, lucid, and accessible, this celebration of human ingenuity and imagination will expand your world and your mind.Trade ReviewA gorgeous and inviting overview of the fundamental facts of physical reality. -- Steven Pinker, Johnson Professor of Psychology, Harvard University, and author of Enlightenment NowIf you were to go back just two hundred years and tell people what we knew, from the origins of the universe to the molecular basis of life, and how weird and unintuitive nature is at the atomic scale, they would think we were crazy. But if you showed them what we have created with that knowledge, they would think we were magicians. In this engaging and highly accessible book, Frank Wilczek shows how the vast edifice that is modern science was constructed with only a few ingredients and assumptions, but depended crucially on a way of thinking--about the nature of evidence and how it applied to the world around us. Anyone interested in the underlying basis of the complexity of today's science will enjoy this book. -- Venki Ramakrishnan, Winner of the Nobel Prize in Chemistry and author of Gene MachineFrank Wilczek is not only one of the world's greatest physicists; he's also one of its greatest explainers. Fundamentals is lucid, beautiful, and revelatory. -- Steven Strogatz, professor of mathematics, Cornell University, and author of Infinite PowersWhether or not you're accustomed to reading physics for pleasure, the Nobel laureate Frank Wilczek's Fundamentals might be the perfect book for the winter of this plague year... Wilczek writes with breathtaking economy and clarity, and his pleasure in his subject is palpable... What a reader gets in Fundamentals is the native language of physics - mathematics - precisely translated by someone who has spent a lifetime (about a billion thoughts!) on these forces that shape our physical world -- Nell Freudenberger * The New York Times *This is an exuberant, gorgeously crafted, and intellectually thrilling book, written by one of our greatest living scientists yet hospitable to all. To be reminded that time and space, mystery and order, are so much stranger and more generous than we can comprehend-this is a gift to public life and moral imagination in a young century where what is visible and tangible feels chaotic and constricting. This book is also unexpectedly spiritually thrilling. Wilczek makes the remarkable move of picking up and evolving the classic scientists' faith that their investigations would reveal the mind of our maker, as well as Einstein's self-described 'cosmic spiritual sensibility.' What began as an exposition, as Wilzcek writes, 'grew into a contemplation.' The result is a profoundly enriched understanding, accessible to the religious and non-religious alike, of what it means to be human-and what we might be pointing at when we use the word God. -- Krista Tippett, host of On Being and author of Becoming Wise[Wilczek] turns out to be a true visionary * The Times *For those with more scientific yearnings, and who regret not taking a few courses in college to learn about the physical world, theoretical physicist Frank Wilczek offers a way to catch up . . . With his clear and joyful voice, Wilczek succeeds very well, and for good reason . . . There is no calculus required; this is not Physics 101. Instead, Wilczek talks about modern physics and cosmology from a more broad-brush and philosophical perspective, often linking their findings to the real world - how they affect us. In this age of rising skepticism, he wants his readers - whom he imagines to be lawyers, doctors, artists, parents or simply curious people - to be 'born again, in the way of science'. * Washington Post *A lucid and riveting narrative of the fundamentals-what Wilczek calls 'the central messages of modern physics,' which are not just facts about how the world works but also 'the style of thought that allowed us to discover them. * Scientific American *Mr. Wilczek's prose pulses with enthusiasm for its subject -- Christopher Levenick * Wall Street Journal *The universe at its grandest and most minuscule is explored in this beguiling meditation on physics. . . a stimulating and very readable scientific tour of the cosmos. * Publishers Weekly (starred review) *...breathtaking feat . . . the narrative is a mind-bender of the first order-in the best way possible-but what makes it so engrossing is that the author does far more than just present the facts and speculations, however fascinating; on every page, readers will glean his exhilaration and joy in discovery . . . Another winner from Wilczek, who invites us to be born again into a richer, deeper understanding of the world. * Kirkus,starred review *This is a book about deep ideas, not passing fancies. It will teach you profound principles, not dry lists of facts. It's a rare treat indeed to get a glimpse into the mind of one of the world's leading physicists, presented in an engaging style that will be enjoyed by anyone at all. -- Sean Carroll, author of Something Deeply HiddenHow is the universe put together? Beneath the bewildering clamor of the world around us, there lies a hidden realm of subtle mathematical beauty, a bedrock of fundamental principles in which all of nature is grounded. Few living scientists have accomplished more than Frank Wilczek in helping unveil that deeper layer of existence. With poetry and fervor, Wilczek takes us on a breathtaking journey to the frontiers of physics, and reminds us of just how privileged we human beings are to glimpse the foundations of reality. -- Paul Davies, Regents' Professor at Arizona State University and author of The Demon in the MachineA delightful book . . . Frank Wilczek is that rare creature: a first-class scientist who is also an extremely talented communicator. . . Wilczek constantly finds fresh ways to present such ideas, so that you emerge with new insight into what they mean. . . . Fundamentals is, then, not only an exceptional piece of science communication but also a deeply humanistic book * Physics World *Fundamentals is an engaging account of the history of humankind's understanding of reality, told by one of the key contributors to recent parts of that story. Wilczek's grasp on the physics he relates is comprehensive and authoritative; he conveys technicalities with a rare combination of accuracy and accessibility . . . Wilczek provides an exceptionally clear guide to the state of physical knowledge in the early 21st century, much in the spirit of the sort of explanation that the ancient Greeks desired * Science News *It's hard to imagine a better tour of fundamental physics than the one I got from Frank Wilczek here. Loved it -- Sam Harris, Twitter

Read more less

Book SynopsisInvasive species are everywhere, from forests and prairies to mountaintops and river mouths. Their rampant nature and sheer numbers appear to overtake fragile native species and forever change the ecosystems that they depend on. Concerns that invasive species represent significant threats to global biodiversity and ecological integrity permeate conversations from schoolrooms to board rooms, and concerned citizens grapple with how to rapidly and efficiently manage their populations. These worries have culminated in an ongoing “war on invasive species,” where the arsenal is stocked with bulldozers, chainsaws, and herbicides put to the task of their immediate eradication. In Hawaii, mangrove trees (Avicennia spp.) are sprayed with glyphosate and left to decompose on the sandy shorelines where they grow, and in Washington, helicopters apply the herbicide Imazapyr to smooth cordgrass (Spartina alterniflora) growing in estuaries. The “war on invasive species” is in full swing, but given the scope of such potentially dangerous and ecologically degrading eradication practices, it is necessary to question the very nature of the battle. Beyond the War on Invasive Species offers a much-needed alternative perspective on invasive species and the best practices for their management based on a holistic, permaculture-inspired framework. Utilizing the latest research and thinking on the changing nature of ecological systems, Beyond the War on Invasive Species closely examines the factors that are largely missing from the common conceptions of invasive species, including how the colliding effects of climate change, habitat destruction, and changes in land use and management contribute to their proliferation. There is more to the story of invasive species than is commonly conceived, and Beyond the War on Invasive Species offers ways of understanding their presence and ecosystem effects in order to make more ecologically responsible choices in land restoration and biodiversity conservation that address the root of the invasion phenomenon. The choices we make on a daily basis—the ways we procure food, shelter, water, medicine, and transportation—are the major drivers of contemporary changes in ecosystem structure and function; therefore, deep and long-lasting ecological restoration outcomes will come not just from eliminating invasive species, but through conscientious redesign of these production systems.Trade ReviewChoice- "Emphasizing a holistic use of what is present in the landscape, rather than what managers presume should be there, Orion (Oregon State Univ.) delves into the somewhat controversial field of invasive ecology, using both plant and animal examples in ecosystem restoration. She thoughtfully discusses the ethics of restoring function to ecosystems and looks at species migrations and movements in a broader context than would most land managers having conversations on landscape scales. She also points out many examples in which understanding the roles and relationships of problem species could lead to multiple solutions for ecosystem health and society. A permaculture perspective is not widely seen in restoration science; however, Orion calls for managers and scientists to recognize destructive patterns, especially with changing climate, habitat shifts, and society's attitudes toward conservation. This thought-provoking book is an interesting read for anyone dealing with natural resources or agricultural sciences who aspires to be an environmental steward of a healthier planet. Summing Up: Recommended. General readers, graduate students, researchers/faculty, and professionals/practitioners.”Library Journal, Starred Review- "Here is a brilliant, alternative way of dealing with nonnative, invasive species. Oregon State University permaculturist Orion’s emphasis is on plants, and her survey of relevant literature is a virtuoso incorporation of books, journals, electronic resources, and personal communications, written in commendable expository prose. In the face of overwhelming political correctness, which dictates that invasive species should be eliminated, the author offers ways to exploit and adapt to them in addition to extolling the virtues some of the species exhibit. As an instructor, Orion teaches ways to manage ecosystems with an eye to long-term results, free of herbicides and destructive attempts to remove species seen as undesirable. She pays special attention to the behaviors of ‘primitive' societies in relation to their surroundings. In her view, pre-Columbian America was already far from pristine; it underwent many changes wrought by Native Americans, especially through fire. This thoughtful, controversial, and well-documented book is guaranteed to infuriate many and to provoke us into rethinking our attitudes about what is natural and best for the land. With essays such as 'The Myth of Wilderness,' the reader is challenged to confront revolutionary ideas about our landscapes. VERDICT: Ideal for all interested in natural history, agriculture, chemicals, climate change, ecology, and anthropology.” Booklist- "Ecosystem restoration, broadly defined as reinstating native flora and fauna by controlling invasive species, is a noble goal. But in the case of plants, it is often achieved through the use of harsh pesticides. This irony is not lost on botanist Orion, who encourages fellow environmental professionals to factor in the larger picture and “turn on the macroscope” to meet desired end goals. Systematically pointing out avenues for improvement in our approach to restoration, from consuming more local foods to changing how we work with “pristine” nature, Orion provides us with a practical worksheet that takes the permaculture view, a holistic way of looking at habitat. This slender volume might be too “textbookish” to be accessible to the lay reader but Orion’s reminders that the very definition of “native” is in flux (a process exacerbated by climate change) and her eco-friendly suggestions about what to do with “unwanted” species should be essential reading for all. Plenty of real-world instances of invasive flora and fauna (e.g., kudzu, zebra mussels) make the case effectively.”“Some of our most productive and tasty plants in the permaculture landscape are vilified as invasive weeds that need controlling. This is a mindset that also promotes a delineation between conservation and agriculture. My personal response is to cultivate fewer conventional annual vegetables and grow and eat as many of these weeds as is appropriate, creating an extensive, diverse, and resilient forage system in my own backyard. It is time to stop putting land management into boxes and create wildlife habitats and food in stacked systems. "Tao Orion explains how to take advantage of the vigor of ‘invasive’ edible and useful exotics and harvest them. This is how to bring ecosystems back into balance. This is adaptive permaculture thinking at the broad-scale level. Chelsea Green has produced yet another pioneering book, demonstrating how permaculture is way ahead of conventional land-management practices.”--Maddy Harland, editor of Permaculture magazine, cofounder of The Sustainability Centre in the UK, and a Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts“An interesting and valuable contribution to the ongoing refutation of invasive species ideology. Detailed and wide-ranging, Orion extends and deepens several analyses of invasionism, and offers several interesting new perspectives. She points to holistic systems management as an alternative to the current war on invasives. Land managers and invasionists would do well to give it a careful read.”--D.I. Theodoropoulos, author of Invasion Biology: Critique of a Pseudoscience“Beyond the War on Invasive Species creates an essential pathway for deeper care of the Earth. The holistic perspective of invasives is shared through deep experience and thoughtfulness and ultimately leads us to a greater and more aligned role in restoration of our home’s ecosystems in these changing times. This book offers a critical role in civilization’s evolution and highlights actions that recognize deeper values that benefit our society as a whole.”--Katrina Blair, author of The Wild Wisdom of Weeds: 13 Essential Plants for Human Survival“In her fascinating and highly readable book, Beyond the War on Invasive Species, author Tao Orion points out the shortcomings of our current approach toward landscape restoration and invasive species. Rather than seeing these exotic plants and animals simply as invaders that need to be eradicated, she argues, we should recognize the beneficial role they play in the environment and the many essential services they could provide to human beings. “Embracing rampancy,” as Orion exuberantly puts it, turns the perceived problem of invasive species into practical solutions that also allow us to make peace with both the land and ourselves.”--Larry Korn, author of One-Straw Revolutionary: The Philosophy and Work of Masanobu Fukuoka“This book brings much-needed balance to the overheated debate about so-called invasive species. Tao Orion’s meticulously researched yet engaging work shows that the true culprits are nearly always human-caused disturbance and development, and that species shifts are a symptom, not a cause, of this habitat destruction. Beyond the War on Invasive Species is an important book that offers a path away from unsuccessful restoration efforts—based on poor science and policy—and toward new, ecologically sound programs for building and preserving biodiversity.”--Toby Hemenway, author of Gaia’s Garden: A Guide to Home-Scale Permaculture and The Permaculture City: Regenerative Design for Urban, Suburban, and Town Resilience“Beyond the War on Invasive Species is part of a new, much more nuanced conversation about ‘invasive’ species that is taking place in science, agriculture, and land management. It provides an analysis of the new science that looks for ecosystem function as well as harm from newly arrived species, looks at species migration in the context of climate change, and broadens our conversation to look at these organisms in the context of the human ecological footprint. Orion offers land management guidelines, based in permaculture design process, that help to chart a new way forward in our new land of novel ecosystems.”--Eric Toensmeier, author of Paradise Lot and Perennial Vegetables“Tao Orion has brought together personal experience, careful study, and visionary thinking to turn us toward becoming useful people of place. Her exploration widens the narrow concept of invasion (so often repeated but seldom carefully thought through) and elucidates the trouble of short sightedness. We are not threatened by aliens, but rather we are turning our backs on the big picture.”--Tom Ward, author of Greenward, Ho! Herbal Home Remedies and cofounder of Siskiyou Permaculture“A gathering body of evidence against the scale of chemical interventions in both agriculture and wild nature is fueling a battle of geopolitical proportions. In the process of asking the questions about how best to restore nature, Orion exposes a deep ethical corruption at the heart of both ecological science and the environmental movement.”--David Holmgren, from the Foreword“Beyond the War on Invasive Species is a devastating exposé of the military industrial invasive species complex and a sorely needed and impeccably researched volume that should become one of many as we recover from self-destructive attempts to eradicate parts of nature instead of acting with an understanding of the whole.”--Ben Falk, author of The Resilient Farm and Homestead and founder of Whole Systems Design

Read more less

Book Synopsis"Some people say, 'How can you live without knowing?' I do not know what they mean. I always live without knowing. That is easy. How you get to know is what I want to know."--Richard P. Feynman Nobel Prize-winning physicist Richard P. Feynman (1918-88) was that rarest of creatures--a towering scientific genius who could make himself understood byTrade Review"Feynman's depth and zing leap from the page."--Nature "[Richard Feynman] combined scientific genius with regular-guy language... Now his daughter, Michelle Feynman--born three years after he received the Nobel in 1965--has edited a collection of quotes from his voluminous output of books, lectures, essays, articles and scientific papers."--Washington Post "So much has been said by and about the charismatic physicist Richard Feynman that it is no surprise to find that his witticisms fill a book nearly 400 pages long... A fun present for any Feynman fanboys and fangirls in your life."--Physics World "Deeply learned... Highly detailed and utterly convincing."--Tarek Masoud, Perspectives on Politics "[Feynman] was, after all, a Nobel Prize winning scientist, yet he wrote often with great lucidity and humor, much of which is on display in this collection."--Acadiana LifeStyleTable of ContentsA Brief Note on Sources ix Foreword, by Brian Cox xi Reflections on Richard Feynman, by Yo-Yo Ma xv Preface: My Quotable Father, by Michelle Feynman xvii Chronology xxiii Youth 3 Family 15 Autobiographical 23 Art, Music, and Poetry 51 Nature 57 Imagination 83 Humor 89 Love 103 Philosophy and Religion 109 Nature of Science 123 Curiosity and Discovery 165 How Physicists Think 185 The Quantum World 197 Science and Society 213 Mathematics 223 Technology 241 War 249 Challenger 261 Politics 271 Doubt and Uncertainty 281 Education and Teaching 293 Advice and Inspiration 317 Intelligence 327 The Nobel Prize 333 Worldview 345 The Future 355 Honoring Richard Feynman 363 Acknowledgments 383 Photo Credits 387 Sources 389 Index 397

Read more less

Book SynopsisTop ten Sunday Times BestsellerEngaging, ambitious and creative' GuardianWhere are we? Are we alone? Who are we? Why are we here? What is our future?Human Universe tackles some of the greatest questions that humans have asked to try and understand the very nature of ourselves and the Universe in which we live.Through the endless leaps of human minds, it explores the extraordinary depth of our knowledge today and where our curiosity may lead us in the future. With groundbreaking insight it reveals how time, physics and chemistry came together to create a creature that can wonder at its own existence, blessed with an unquenchable thirst to discover not just where it came from, but how it can think, where it is going and if it is alone.Accompanies the acclaimed BBC TV series.Trade ReviewPraise for Professor Brian Cox: ‘Cox’s romantic, lyrical approach to astrophysics all adds up to an experience that feels less like homework and more like having a story told to you. A really good story, too.’ Guardian ‘He bridges the gap between our childish sense of wonder and a rather more professional grasp of the scale of things.’ Independent ‘If you didn’t utter a wow watching the TV, you will while reading the book.’ The Times ‘In this book of the acclaimed BBC2 TV series, Professor Cox shows us the cosmos as we have never seen it before – a place full of the most bizarre and powerful natural phenomena.’ Sunday Express ‘Will entertain and delight … what a priceless gift that would be.’ Independent on Sunday

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisPlants have profoundly moulded the Earth''s climate and the evolutionary trajectory of life. Far from being ''silent witnesses to the passage of time'', plants are dynamic components of our world, shaping the environment throughout history as much as that environment has shaped them.In The Emerald Planet, David Beerling puts plants centre stage, revealing the crucial role they have played in driving global changes in the environment, in recording hidden facets of Earth''s history, and in helping us to predict its future. His account draws together evidence from fossil plants, from experiments with their living counterparts, and from computer models of the ''Earth System'', to illuminate the history of our planet and its biodiversity. This new approach reveals how plummeting carbon dioxide levels removed a barrier to the evolution of the leaf; how plants played a starring role in pushing oxygen levels upwards, allowing spectacular giant insects to thrive in the Carboniferous; and it strengthens fascinating and contentious fossil evidence for an ancient hole in the ozone layer. Along the way, Beerling introduces a lively cast of pioneering scientists from Victorian times onwards whose discoveries provided the crucial background to these and the other puzzles.This understanding of our planet''s past sheds a sobering light on our own climate-changing activities, and offers clues to what our climatic and ecological futures might look like. There could be no more important time to take a close look at plants, and to understand the history of the world through the stories they tell.Oxford Landmark Science books are ''must-read'' classics of modern science writing which have crystallized big ideas, and shaped the way we think.Trade ReviewA fascinating insight into the way life -- especially plants -- evolved on our planet. * Jonathan Cowie, Science Fact & Science Fiction Concatenation *Review from previous edition Within these pages is one of the greatest stories ever told... It is as fascinating as it is important. * New Scientist *Here at last is David Beerling as the Green Knight, revealing the extraordinary story of the construction of our emerald planet. Rigorous science joins hands with an enthusiastic delivery to re-awaken our fascination in plants, while engaging anecdotes provide a thrilling background to an extraordinary story of climate change and our current environmental crisis. * Simon Conway Morris (author of Life's Solution) *Beerling gives us the big picture of how plants have changed our planet - and poses the key question of how we will manage the emerald planet to ensure the kind of future we desire. * Sir Peter Crane (Director of the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, 1999-2006) *If I can find a fault with this book it is that each subsequent chapter is so engrossing that it drives the author's previous deliberations from my head... I will return to this book again and again. * Lyn Dunachie, Glasgow Natural History Society *David Beerling's book is both fascinating and important. * P D Smith, The Guardian *An illuminating account of the ways "greenhouse gases, genes, and geochemistry" are linked. * P D Smith, The Guardian *My favourite non-fiction book this year...[a] highly readable history of the last half-billion years on earth * Oliver Sacks, Observer Books of the Year *David Beerling tells two stories in parallel. Both are eloquently and engagingly merged in a scholarly, yet generally accessible book...Beerling provides for the reader a fascinating history of the discovery of fossils and the inferences drawn from them...this book is a wonderful example of the nascent field of Earth systems science. * Paul Falkowski, Nature *...of great value and relevance to all interested in plants, climate and, equally, the future of our 'emerald planet'. * John MacLeod, RHS Professor of Horticulture, Garden *David Beerling's fascinating new book offers a new global perspective on the evolution of our planet...[a] vivid account...The environmental legacy of the plant kingdom upon our world can only be better appreciated after reading this book. * Louis Ronse De Craene *A beautifully detailed account...a gorgeous book. * Steven Poole, The Guardian (Review) *[A] fascinating overview of green evolution. * Karl Dallas, Morning Star *Within these pages is one of the greatest stories ever told ... It is as fascinating as it is important. * New Scientist *The Emerald Planet is a serious talking-to about why plants must not be ignored. * Jonathan Silvertown, TLS *Table of ContentsPreface 1: Introduction 2: Leaves, genes, and greenhouse gases 3: Oxygen and the lost world of giants 4: An ancient ozone catastrophe? 5: Global warming ushers in the dinosaur era 6: The flourishing forests of Antarctica 7: Paradise lost 8: Nature's green revolution 9: Through a glass darkly Notes Index

Read more less

Book SynopsisVeterinary Embryology, 2nd Edition, has been updated to reflect the many changes that have developed in the field; the text has been fully revised and expanded and is now in full colour and many pedagogical features and a companion website have been developed.Trade Review"Overall, this is a great resource for anyone new to the field of embryology/developmental biology or related fields. The book is written in a way that is easy to follow and understand. The extensive use of illustrations throughout the book makes it a great learning tool, especially for concepts that are difficult to visualize...One of the major improvements in this edition is the incorporation of color in the illustrations, which greatly enhances the interpretation of the images." (Doody Enterprises 07/04/2017)"The second edition of Veterinary Embryology is the best available source of current information on the topic. The content is comprehensive, authoritative, logically organized, and amply complemented with color illustrations that are generous in size and generally effective in highlighting stages of embryo development. Those illustrations are also available from a companion website"...."Tables in the book contain a wealth of information regarding embryo features and gestational timing for various domestic animals. Additionally, the book highlights molecular details of gene expression, stem cell lineage related to twinning, and a comprehensive description of hematopoietic development. This book is a good value for the price. I highly recommend it as the best available resource for information related to veterinary embryology. As a textbook, students will appreciate the key points and color illustrations" (Reviewed by Thomas F. Fletcher, DVM, PhD, University of Minnesota 15th June 2017 AVMA)Table of ContentsAbout the authors, vii Preface, ix Acknowledgements, xi About the companion website, xii 1 Historical aspects of embryology, 1 2 Division, growth and differentiation of cells, 13 3 Gametogenesis, 20 4 Fertilisation, 26 5 Cleavage, 33 6 Gastrulation, 39 7 Cell signalling and gene functioning during development, 45 8 Stem cells, 59 9 Establishment of the basic body plan, 67 10 Coelomic cavities, 73 11 Foetal membranes, 81 12 Forms of implantation and placentation, 92 13 Embryo mortality in domestic species, 112 14 Cardiovascular system, 119 15 Embryological and postnatal features of haematopoiesis, 148 16 Nervous system, 167 17 Muscular and skeletal systems, 195 18 Digestive system, 214 19 Respiratory system, 232 20 Urinary system, 240 21 Male and female reproductive systems, 251 22 Structures in the head and neck, 274 23 Endocrine system, 289 24 Eye and ear, 298 25 Integumentary system, 314 26 Age determination of the embryo and foetus, 331 27 Assisted reproductive technologies used in domestic species, 338 28 Genetic, chromosomal and environmental factors which adversely affect prenatal development, 351 Glossary, 371 Useful websites, 377 Index, 379

Read more less

Book SynopsisNamed A Best Book of the Year by World MagazineThroughout his distinguished and unconventional career, engineer-turned-molecular-biologist Douglas Axe has been asking the questions that much of the scientific community would rather silence. Now, he presents his conclusions in this brave and pioneering book. Axe argues that the key to understanding our origin is the “design intuition”—the innate belief held by all humans that tasks we would need knowledge to accomplish can only be accomplished by someone who has that knowledge. For the ingenious task of inventing life, this knower can only be God.Starting with the hallowed halls of academic science, Axe dismantles the widespread belief that Darwin’s theory of evolution is indisputably true, showing instead that a gaping hole has been at its center from the beginning. He then explains in plain English the science that proves our design intuition scientifically valid. Last

Read more less

Book SynopsisExtensive revised and updated third edition of classic first-year text by Nobel Laureate. Atomic and molecular structure, quantum mechanics, statistical mechanics, thermodynamics correlated with descriptive chemistry. Problems. 75 pages of appendixes. Hailed by Choice as an excellent text, highly recommended.

Read more less

Book SynopsisGENERAL CHEMISTRY is better than ever with this eleventh edition. It includes essential updatessuch as modern artwork, higher integration with OWLv2, revised end-of-chapter questions, added Capstone Problems, narrative revisions, and moreto help you succeed in your chemistry course.Table of Contents1. Chemistry and Measurement. 2. Atoms, Molecules, and Ions. 3. Calculations with Chemical Formulas and Equations. 4. Chemical Reactions. 5. The Gaseous State. 6. Thermochemistry. 7. Quantum Theory of the Atom. 8. Electron Configurations and Periodicity. 9. Ionic and Covalent Bonding. 10. Molecular Geometry and Chemical Bonding Theory. 11. States of Matter; Liquids and Solids. 12. Solutions. 13. Rates of Reaction. 14. Chemical Equilibrium. 15. Acids and Bases. 16. Acid-Base Equilibria. 17. Solubility and Complex-Ion Equilibria. 18. Thermodynamics and Equilibrium. 19. Electrochemistry. 20. Nuclear Chemistry. 21. Chemistry of the Main-Group Elements. 22. The Transition Elements and Coordination Compounds. 23. Organic Chemistry. 24. Polymer Materials: Synthetic and Biological. APPENDIXES. Answers to Exercises. Answers to Concept Checks. Answers to Selected Odd-Numbered Problems.

Read more less

Book Synopsis**OVER ONE MILLION COPIES SOLD**How well do you know your dog? Did you know that dogs have dreams and fears? That they do see colour, that they smell electric storms, and feel scent as an emotion?Jeffrey Masson takes us into the world of the dog, a world created by a sense of smell one hundred million times more acute than ours, and reintroduces us to man''s best friend - loyal, honest, straightforward, spontaneous and almost unbelievably forgiving. Drawing on observations of his own three dogs, as well as true stories of dogs'' friendship, heroism and loyalty, Masson makes us laugh, cry and think again about our canine companions, who, unlike humans, will never lie about love.A charming, playful and moving book which will forever change the way you think about dogs.Trade ReviewTremendously reassuring for me, because my dog and I love each other to distraction...Masson dares to write about dogs' emotions, dreams, sadness, fears and loves, and attempts to interpret their feelings without sounding even slightly soppy...This is a fascinating and very moving book * Mail on Sunday *Charming...personal and dynamic * Independent *Gentle, funny and entertaining * Observer *Brilliant * Guardian *A joyous read... Hats of to Jeffrey Masson for his excellent, down-to-earth, understandable and, more importantly, loving study of man's best friend * Literary Review *

Read more less

Book SynopsisEinstein''s theory of general relativity is a cornerstone of modern physics. It also touches upon a wealth of topics that students find fascinating black holes, warped spacetime, gravitational waves, and cosmology. Now reissued by Cambridge University Press, this ground-breaking text helped to bring general relativity into the undergraduate curriculum, making it accessible to virtually all physics majors. One of the pioneers of the ''physics-first'' approach to the subject, renowned relativist James B. Hartle, recognized that there is typically not enough time in a short introductory course for the traditional, mathematics-first, approach. In this text, he provides a fluent and accessible physics-first introduction to general relativity that begins with the essential physical applications and uses a minimum of new mathematics. This market-leading text is ideal for a one-semester course for undergraduates, with only introductory mechanics as a prerequisite.Trade Review'Jim Hartle's Gravity is a gem that offers a novel approach to general relativity pedagogy. It is written for senior level undergraduate physics students, but I expect it will be useful for a broader audience. The writing throughout is clear, methodical, and elegant, spiced with the author's characteristic dry sense of humor. His book is a fine contribution that extends the range of pedagogical choices available to instructors.' Jennie Traschen, Physics Today'Teaching general relativity at undergraduate level inevitably brings a dilemma: [whether] to be rigorous from the beginning, developing all the tools necessary to do it but risk discouraging the student with difficult new mathematics or to emphasize the physical aspects but risk being so qualitative that the full content of the theory cannot be grasped by the student. Hartle solves this dilemma in a quite consistent way. The flavour of the physics which relies on general relativity theory is preserved and, at the same time, the reader can, at the end, perform calculations by himself. What more could we ask for in an introductory book on this difficult and fascinating subject?' Júlio C. Fabris, Classical and Quantum Gravity'This is an excellent introduction to general relativity with a hands-on approach that is based on physical situations of interest like black holes and the expanding universe. It fills a real gap in the literature for an undergraduate or graduate course.' Stephen Hawking, University of Cambridge'… the best elementary introduction to general relativity ever written. It brings relativity fully within the grasp of undergraduates and should trigger the creation of general relativity courses at colleges and universities around the world.' Kip Thorne, California Institute of Technology'Hartle brings the beauty and excitement of relativistic gravitation to the appropriate undergraduate level via a remarkably accessible development. He uses many more familiar concepts to produce a broad understanding of the basic structure and applications of the theory. The pedagogy is remarkably effective.' Robert V. Wagoner, Stanford University'Hartle is an established master of the field and his competence assures that this book is authoritative. The book provides a striking combination of classical general relativity theory and the latest modern observational results.' Edwin F. Taylor, Massachusetts Institute of Technology'… a truly novel approach. With Hartle's presentation, relativity is more than its dry mathematics; instead it is an elegant, curious, and intellectually vibrant subject that is central to many of the most intriguing questions in physics and astrophysics today.' Marc Kamionkowski, California Institute of Technology'This book should appeal to a new generation of physicists… It includes an excellent review of special relativity and provides a unified geometrical approach to both special and general relativity.' Hans Juergen Weber, University of Virginia'A very fine book by a leading expert. By concentrating on physical ideas and the very latest observational results, Hartle achieves his admirable aim of making general relativity accessible without relying on daunting mathematics. This book is likely to become a classic that every physics student should possess.' Jonathan Halliwell, Imperial College London'Professor Hartle is to be commended for writing such a fine and much needed introductory book on general relativity. With the right balance of physical ideas and mathematical details delivered in a clear style, this text will be welcomed.' Bei Lok Hu, University of Maryland'This book should make a major impact in undergraduate education. It is far clearer and more physically motivating than other texts. The exposition is at precisely the right level … clear worked examples and good problems make it especially useful.' Mike Hobson, University of Cambridge'… for decades, general relativity has largely been the purview of graduate students … Hartle's new book promises to change that. It provides an admirable overview of one of physics' most beautiful and increasingly relevant theories and can be understood with only a first mechanics class as a prerequisite. It should persuade many physics departments to offer general relativity as a routine part of the undergraduate curriculum.' Arthur Kosowsky, Rutgers University'… the ideal text for … an introductory course. In no other single text have I found all the up-to-date material that a modern physicist should know about gravity. At the same time, it is an excellent basis for more advanced study.' Dieter Brill, University of Maryland'This is probably my favourite book on GR at this level. It should appeal to those who also like the physics-first approach, and be accessible to those with an undergraduate-level understanding of mechanics.' Phillip Helbig, The ObservatoryTable of ContentsList of Boxes; Preface; Figure credits; Part I. Space and Time in Newtonian Physics and Special Relativity: 1. Gravitational physics; 2. Geometry as physics; 3. Space, time, and gravity in Newtonian physics; 4. Principles of special relativity; 5. Special relativistic mechanics. Part II. The Curved Spacetimes of General Relativity: 6. Gravity as geometry; 7. Description of curved spacetime; 8. Geodesics; 9. The geometry outside a spherical star; 10. Solar System tests of general relativity; 11. Relativistic gravity in action; 12. Gravitational collapse and black holes; 13. Astrophysical black holes; 14. A little rotation; 15. Rotating black holes; 16. Gravitational waves; 17. The universe observed; 18. Cosmological models; 19. Which universe and why?. Part III. The Einstein Equation: 20. A little more math; 21. Curvature and the Einstein equation; 22. The source of curvature; 23. Gravitational wave emission; 24. Relativistic stars; Appendix A. Units; Appendix B. Curvature quantities; Appendix C. Curvature and the Einstein equation; Appendix D. Pedagogical strategy; Bibliography; Index.

Read more less

Book SynopsisWith the development of a variety of exciting new areas of research involving computational chemistry, nano- and smart materials, and applications of the recently discovered graphene, there can be no doubt that physical chemistry is a vitally important field. It is also perceived as the most daunting branch of chemistry, being necessarily grounded in physics and mathematics and drawing as it does on quantum mechanics, thermodynamics, and statistical thermodynamics.With his typical clarity and hardly a formula in sight, Peter Atkins'' Very Short Introduction explores the contributions physical chemistry has made to all branches of chemistry. Providing an insight into its central concepts Atkins reveals the cultural contributions physical chemistry has made to our understanding of the natural world. ABOUT THE SERIES: The Very Short Introductions series from Oxford University Press contains hundreds of titles in almost every subject area. These pocket-sized books are the perfect way to get ahead in a new subject quickly. Our expert authors combine facts, analysis, perspective, new ideas, and enthusiasm to make interesting and challenging topics highly readable.Trade ReviewThe collection A Very Short Introduction from Oxford University Press is directed to people who want a stimulating and accessible way into a new subject. From this perspective, Peter Atkins has successfully met the collection's goal. In his characteristic clear style, he walks us through a short but rather interesting journey through the core ideas that form the conceptual infrastructure of physical chemistry. This intellectual trip takes the reader through different levels at which physicochemical models describe, explain, and predict the structure and properties of matter. From the subatomic world to the macroscopic scale; from single-particle to multi-particle systems; from the theoretical realm to the experimental setting. * Science & Education *[Physical Chemistry: A Very Short Introduction] is carefully written and captures the breadth of the subject. * Chemistry World *An exemplary book, both for those who, like me, want to refresh and modernize his obsolete knowledge, and for those (students, pupils) whom you will introduce into this fascinating subject. Without any reserve: cordially recommended! * Hans Bouma, NVOX *Table of ContentsPreface ; 1. Matter from the inside ; 2. Matter from the outside ; 3. Bridging matter ; 4. States of matter ; 5. Changing the state of matter ; 6. Changing the identity of matter ; 7. Investigating matter ; Further reading ; Index

Read more less

Book SynopsisTrade ReviewA superbly presented seminal work... Highly recommended. Midwest Book Review Profoundly original Choice We owe Marder...a great debt for widening the contemporary philosophical discussion of life and ethics, taking it into the plant kingdom. -- Jeffrey T. Nealon Notre Dame Philosophical Reviews Michael Marder's book Plant-Thinking is a timely contribution to the project of expanding ethical considerations to non-human beings... This is a strong contribution to the post-metaphysical project. Canadian Philosophical Review Life-changing Bangalore Review Anyone can find something of note or amusement here. Publishers WeeklyTable of ContentsForeword by Gianni Vattimo and Santiago Zabala Acknowledgments Introduction: To Encounter the Plants ... Part I. Vegetal Anti-Metaphysics 1. The Soul of the Plant 2. The Body of the Plant Part II. Vegetal Existentiality 3. The Time of Plants 4. The Freedom of Plants 5. The Wisdom of Plants Epilogue: The Ethical Offshoots of Plant-Thinking Notes Works Cited Index

Read more less

Book SynopsisTrade Review"A strong, resilient mind is the cornerstone of a healthy and happy life. In Head Strong, Dave Asprey explains how to ditch the 'brain kryptonite' that impedes our cognitive health so that we can all perform optimally-now and in the future." -- Michele Promaulayko, Editor-in-Chief, Cosmopolitan, author of 20 Pounds Younger and Look Better Naked "Head Strong is a powerfully important book. Dave Asprey knows what it is like to suffer, but also how to take thoughtful action to heal and protect the most important part of humans: our brains. I highly recommend it." -- Daniel Amen, MD Founder, Amen Clinics and author of Change Your Brain, Change Your Life and co-author of The Brain Warrior's Way Daniel Amen, MD Founder, Amen Clinics and author of Change Your Brain, Change Your Life and co-author of The Brain Warrior' "Dave Asprey has masterfully utilized leading edge neuroscience as well as his extensive personal experience to create a user-friendly guide that will clearly fulfill its promise to protect, restore, and enhance brain function. Head Strong is a tour de force." -- David Perlmutter, MD, FACN, ABIHM, author of #1 New York Times bestseller, Grain Brain, and The Grain Brain Whole Life Plan "The small choices we make every day have a major impact on our mental performance. Head Strong offers a program that shows readers how to enjoy enhanced focus, better moods, and more energy. Highly recommended!" -- Steven Masley, MD, FAHA, FACN, FAAFP, CNS, best-selling author of The 30-Day Heart Tune-Up and Smart Fat "Your brain is the most valuable resource you have. Dave Asprey's Head Strong program is full of simple tools to help you unlock the mental speed and energy of a modern day superhero. If you want to upgrade your performance, this book is a must read." -- Jim Kwik, Celebrity Memory Coach, CEO of Kwik Learning & SuperheroYou "Over the next decade, we will learn to extend the human lifespan 30-plus years. Mitochondrial health is fundamental to that goal. Head Strong is a comprehensive roadmap for maximizing brainpower and maintaining a strong, sharp, and resilient mind." -- Peter H. Diamandis, MD, New York Times Bestselling Author of Abundance and Bold; Co-Founder, Human Longevity, Inc., XPRIZE & Singularity University

Read more less

Book Synopsis

Read more less

Book SynopsisA mathemagical' colouring book, with 60 patterns to colour and 10 more that YOU create!For those who ponder the most intriguing questions in maths, the realm of numbers is not only visual but also beautiful. What does a sphere look like in four dimensions? How can a knight on a chessboard visit every square? And can a five-sided tile cover an infinite floor? Visions of Numberland unlocks the world's greatest mathematical mysteries, with 60 patterns to colour in and 10 more that you can create from scratch. The friendly explanations next to each pattern unlock the secrets of an intellectual quest that has been underway for three thousand years but no maths knowledge is required. Anyone can be an artist in Numberland!Trade ReviewBeautiful...Alex and Edmund have smuggled in some of the best mathematical stories into this visual feast. By engaging the reader in their visual journey the authors show how mathematics isn't a spectator sport. Maths comes alive when you make it yourself. * Marcus du Sautoy, Simonyi Professor for the Public Understanding of Science at the University of Oxford *This is by far the most entertaining maths book I’ve seen in a long time. Want to show someone what maths is about? Tell them to forget everything they’ve read. Then, hand them this book and a box of 100 crayons, and leave them alone for an hour. There’s no way you’ll get your copy back. Amazing! * Adrian Paenza, bestselling maths author and winner of the International Congress of Mathematicians Leelavati Award *My six-year-old and I are both loving the mathy new coloring book Visions of the Universe * Jordan Ellenberg, PhD, author of How Not to Be Wrong *Delightful, informative, and fun! * Steven Strogatz, author of The Joy of x *I love this new math coloring book! I want the Menger slice as a Christmas ornament. * Manil Suri, University of Maryland professor of maths and bestselling author of The Death of Vishnu *

Read more less

Book SynopsisMeeting the need for teaching material suitable for students of atmospheric science and courses on atmospheric radiation, this textbook covers the fundamentals of emission, absorption, and scattering of electromagnetic radiation from ultraviolet to infrared and beyond. Much of the contents applies to planetary atmosphere, with graded discussions providing a thorough treatment of subjects, including single scattering by particles at different levels of complexity. The discussion of the simple multiple scattering theory introduces concepts in more advanced theories, such that the more complicated two-stream theory allows readers to progress beyond the pile-of-plates theory. The authors are physicists teaching at the largest meteorology department in the US at Penn State. The problems given in the text come from students, colleagues, and correspondents, and the figures designed especially for this book facilitate comprehension. Ideal for advanced undergraduate and graduate students of atmospheric science. * Free solutions manual available for lecturers at www.wiley-vch.de/supplements/Trade Review"... a highly enthusiastic and useful book ... highly recommended." CHOICETable of Contents1. Emission: The Birth of Photons 2. Absorption: The Death of Photons 3. Scattering: The Life of Photons 4. Radiometry and Photometry: What You Get and What You See 5. Multiple Scattering: Elementary 6. Multiple Scattering: Advanced 7. Polarization: The Hidden Variable 8. Meteorological Optics: The Reward Free solutions manual available for lecturers at www.wiley-vch.de/supplements/

Read more less

Book SynopsisClimate Change and Human History provides a concise introduction to the relationship between human beings and climate change throughout history. Starting hundreds of thousands of years ago and going up to the present day, this book illustrates how natural climate variability affected early human societies and how human activity is now leading to drastic changes to our climate. Taking a chronological approach the authors explain how climate change created opportunities and challenges for human societies in each major time period, covering themes such as phases of climate and history, climate shocks, the rise and fall of civilizations, industrialization, accelerating climate change and our future outlook. This 2nd edition includes a new chapter on the explosion of social movements, protest groups and key individuals since 2017 and the implications this has had on the history of climate change, an improved introduction to the Anthropocene and extra content on the basic dynamics oTrade Review“A superb work of historical and scientific synthesis. Lieberman and Gordon show how fruitful collaborative efforts between scientists and humanists can be.” * Frank Zelko, Associate Professor of History, University of Hawaii, USA *“Climate Change in Human History demonstrates just how fundamentally a changing climate has worked its way through into the pores of the historical record. This impressive and vastly important volume lays out, in an accessible and stimulating way, a comprehensive narrative from human origins to what may become our anthropogenic twilight. Essential reading not just for historians but students of all disciplines!” * Mark Levene, Emeritus Fellow, History, University of Southampton, UK *They say that those who fail to learn from history are doomed to repeat it. When it comes to climate change, understanding the impact of past climate changes on human civilization is critical to assessing the unprecedented threat we face with human-caused climate change. Now updated to include key movements and events since 2017, there is no better treatment of the topic than Climate Change in Human History. It is a must-read for anyone seeking greater knowledge of climate history and what it can teach us. * Michael E. Mann, Distinguished Professor of Atmospheric Science, Penn State University, USA *Climate Change and Human History remains easily the best introduction to this topic for students. Each chapter combines up-to-date climate science and apt historical interpretation with a global scope. The new edition brings the story up to the present, with a concise explanation of climate change impacts, adaptations, and policies. I recommend it to anyone seeking historical perspectives on our current crisis. * Sam White, Professor of Environmental History, Ohio State University, USA *Table of ContentsGlossary Timeline Introduction 1. A Fragile Start: Ice Ages 2. The Rise of Farming 3. Complex Societies 4. Climate and Civilizations of the Middle Ages 5. Little Ice Age and Regional Climate Change 6. Humans Take Over: Industrialization and Climate Change 7. The Future is Now: Climate Change and Human Societies in the 21st Century 8. Climate Change and Human Responses: Projections and Controversies 9. Declarations, Rebellions and Marches: The Climate Change Emergency Bibliography Index

Read more less

Book SynopsisWriting Scientific Research Articles The new edition of the popular guide for novice and professional scientists alike, providing effective strategies and step-by-step advice for writing scientific papers for publicationFor scientists writing a research article for submission to an international peer-reviewed journal, knowing how to write can be as important as knowing what to write. Writing Scientific Research Articles: Strategy and Steps provides systematic guidance on writing effective scientific papers with the greatest chance for publication. Using clear language, this highly practical guide shows scientists how to apply their analysis and synthesis skills to produce a compelling research article and increase their competence in written communication of science. The third edition is fully revised to reflect changes in the review process and science journal publication. Incorporating current developments in technology and pedagogical practice, brand-new sections cover mapping and planning manuscripts, choosing results, systematic reviews, structured abstracts, and more. Updated material on referee criteria offers valuable insights on what journal editors and referees want to publish and why. Offering a hands-on approach to developing the academic writing skills of scientists in all disciplines and from all language backgrounds, Writing Scientific Research Articlesprovides a genre-based pedagogy and clear processes for writing each section of a manuscript across the full range of research article formats and funding applicationspresents tested strategies for responding to referee comments and developing discipline-specific language skills for manuscript writing and polishingpairs each learning step with updated practical exercises to develop writing and data presentation skills based on expert analysis of well-written papers, including provided example articlesincludes chapters on the difference between review papers and research papers, and on skill development using journal clubs and writing groupsfeatures a wealth of new information on topics including Open Access publishing, online reviews, and predatory conferences and journalsDesigned for use by individuals as a self-study guide or by groups working with an instructor, Writing Scientific Research Articles: Strategy and Steps is a must-have guide for early-career researchers with limited writing experience, scientists for whom English is an additional language, upper-level undergraduates and graduate students writing for publication, and STEM and English language professionals involved in teaching manuscript writing and publication skills and mentoring students andcolleagues.Table of ContentsPreface to the third edition ix Preface to the second edition xi Preface to the first edition xiii Section 1: A framework for success 1 1 How to use this book 3 1.1 Getting started with writing for international publication 3 1.2 Publishing in the international literature 4 1.3 Aims of the book 8 1.4 How the book is structured 9 1.5 How to use this book if you are. . . 10 2 Research article structures 13 2.1 Conventional article structures: AIMRaD and its variations 13 3 Reviewers’ criteria for evaluating manuscripts 19 3.1 Titles as content signposts 20 Section 2: When and how to write each article section 23 4 Results as a “story”: the key driver of an article 25 5 Results: turning data into knowledge 27 5.1 Designing figures 28 5.2 Designing tables 30 5.3 Figure legends and table titles 31 5.4 Supplementary material 33 5.5 Archiving data 34 6 Writing about results 35 6.1 Structure of Results sections 35 6.2 Functions of Results sentences 36 6.3 Verb tense in Results sections 36 7 The Methods section 39 7.1 Purpose of the Methods section 39 7.2 Organising Methods sections 40 7.3 Methods in supplementary material 41 7.4 Publishing methods papers 41 7.5 Use of passive and active verbs 41 8 The Introduction 47 8.1 Argument stages towards a compelling Introduction 47 8.2 Stage 1: Locating your project within an existing field of scientific research 50 8.3 Using references in Stages 2 and 3 51 8.4 Avoiding plagiarism when using others’ work 54 8.5 Stage 3: Indicating the gap or research niche 55 8.6 Stage 4: The statement of purpose or main activity 56 8.7 Stages 5 and 6: Highlighting benefit and mapping the article 57 8.8 Suggested process for drafting an Introduction 57 8.9 Editing for logical flow 58 9 The Discussion section 63 9.1 Important structural issues 63 9.2 Information elements to highlight the key messages 64 9.3 Negotiating the strength of claims 66 10 The title and keywords 69 10.1 Strategy 1: Provide as much relevant information as possible, but be concise 69 10.2 Strategy 2: Use carefully chosen keywords prominently 69 10.3 Strategy 3: Choose strategically – noun phrase, statement, or question? 70 10.4 Strategy 4: Avoid ambiguity in noun phrases 71 11 The Abstract and highlights 73 11.1 Why Abstracts are so important 73 11.2 Selecting additional keywords 73 11.3 Abstracts: typical information elements 73 11.4 Visual abstracts 75 11.5 “Highlights” and other significance or summary sections 75 12 Writing review articles 77 12.1 What editors want to publish 79 12.2 The “take‐home message” of a review 79 12.3 The structure of review articles 87 12.4 Visual elements in review articles: tables, figures, and boxes 89 12.5 Checklist for review article manuscripts 91 12.6 Systematic review articles 91 12.7 Submission and revision of review articles 93 Section 3: Getting your manuscript published 95 13 Submitting a manuscript 97 13.1 Five practices of successful authors 97 13.2 Understanding the peer‐review process 98 13.3 Understanding the editor’s role 99 13.4 The contributor’s covering letter 99 13.5 Understanding the reviewer’s role 101 13.6 Understanding the editor’s role (continued) 103 14 How to respond to peer reviews 105 14.1 Rules of thumb for responding to reviews 105 14.2 How to deal with manuscript rejection 106 14.3 How to deal with “conditional acceptance” or “revise and resubmit” 106 15 A process for preparing a manuscript 115 15.1 Manuscript mapping 116 15.2 Editing procedures 117 15.3 A pre‐review checklist 120 Section 4: Developing your writing and publication skills further 121 16 Skill‐development strategies for groups and individuals 123 16.1 Journal clubs 123 16.2 Writing groups 124 16.3 Selecting feedback strategies for different purposes 124 16.4 Becoming a reviewer 126 16.5 Training for responding to reviewers 127 17 Developing discipline‐specific English skills 129 17.1 Editor expectations of language use 129 17.2 Strategic (and acceptable!) language re‐use: sentence templates 130 17.3 More about noun phrases 133 17.4 Concordancing: a tool for developing your discipline‐specific English 134 17.5 Using the English articles (a/an, the) appropriately in science writing 138 17.6 Using “which” and “that” 141 18 Writing funding proposals 143 18.1 A process for preparing and submitting a funding proposal 144 18.2 Easy mistakes to make 147 Section 5: Provided example articles 149 19 PEA1: Kaiser et al. (2003) 151 20 PEA2: Britton-Simmons & Abbott (2008) 165 21 PEA3: Ganci et al. (2012) 177 Answer pages 191 Appendix: Measures of journal impact and quality 221 A.1 Journal impact 221 A.2 Using indices of journal quality 222 References 225 Index 229

Read more less

Book SynopsisFrom the ancient origins of astronomy to the Copernican revolution, and from Galileo to Hawking''s research into black holes, The Story of Astronomy charts the discoveries of some of the greatest minds in human history, and their attempts to unveil the secrets of the stars. Peter Aughton''s trademark narrative style is to the fore, demystifying some of the biggest breakthroughs in the history of science, and packed full of fascinating nuggets such as why we have 60 minutes in an hour, how the Romans bodged the invention of the leap year and when people really discovered the Earth wasn''t flat (a thousand years before Columbus). And explaining in the most straightforward and compelling of ways what Newton, Einstein, Hubble and Hawking really achieved. Richly informative and readable, The Story of Astronomy is a fascinating journey through 3000 years of stargazing. Included are chapters on: The Origins of Astronomy; From Babylon to Ancient Greece; The Almagest; PersianTable of ContentsIntroduction. The Origins of Astronomy. From Babylon to Ancient Greece. The Almagest. Astronomy in the Dark Ages. The Copernican Revolution. Chasing the Paths of the Planets. Galileo: The Great Telescope Maker. Jeremiah Horrocks: Father of English Astronomy. The Clockwork Universe. English and French Rivalry. Finding Longitude. William Herschel: Gazing Deeper into Space. Understanding the Forces of Nature. Albert Einstein: Relativity Redefines Astronomy. The Hubble Universe. From Microcosm to Macrocosm. Beyond the Visible Spectrum. Black Holes, Quasars and the Universe. Stephen Hawking: Exploring the Boundaries of Space. Astronomy in the Space Age. The Big Bang and the Creation of the Universe. Dark Matter and Dark Energy. Planets, Moons and the Search for Life. Glossary. Further Reading. Index.

Read more less

Book SynopsisWhy do the best-known examples of evolutionary change involve the alteration of one kind of animal into another very similar one, like the evolution of a bigger beak in a bird? Wouldn''t it be much more interesting to understand how beaks originated? Most people would agree, but until recently we didn''t know much about such origins. That is now changing, with the growth of the interdisciplinary field evo-devo, which deals with the relationship between how embryos develop in the short term and how they (and the adults they grow into) evolve in the long term. One of the key questions is: can the origins of structures such as beaks, eyes, and shells be explained within a Darwinian framework? The answer seems to be yes, but only by expanding that framework. This book discusses the required expansion, and the current state of play regarding our understanding of evolutionary and developmental origins.Trade Review'Wallace Arthur treats his readers to an eminently readable but still deeply rooted introduction into one of the most significant achievements of evolutionary biology: how evolutionary developmental biology put the organism back into the centre of evolutionary thinking.' Günter P. Wagner, Yale University, USA'Evo-devo deals with the multiple connections that exist between the biological processes of evolution and development. However, as an interface subject, there is a plurality of views on its content and its boundaries. In spite of that, Wallace Arthur has succeeded in writing an extremely clear and highly accessible guide to this fascinating, multifaceted discipline. Using the concept of 'developmental repatterning' as a common thread, the book provides a balanced view of evo-devo, covering its main achievements and future challenges. This is an ideal entry point for the non-specialist, but also a stimulating read for the practitioner who wants to consider her/his research in a wider perspective.' Giuseppe Fusco, University of Padova, Italy'Occasionally I feel that the field of Evolution and Development has lost its way, becoming submerged in myriad examples and details that don't expand our understanding of life. Wallace's book expounds the intellectual underpinnings of Evolution and Development, leads us through the key questions, and finally shows how the details and examples inform our future understanding. This book provides not just a guide to Evolution and Development, but also a spur to refocus and redouble our efforts to use development to help understand the evolution of life on Earth.' Peter Dearden, University of Otago, New ZealandTable of ContentsPreface; Acknowledgements; 1. What is evo-devo and why is it important?; 2. Antecedents of evo-devo; 3. Evolutionary and developmental essentials; 4. Evo-devo essentials; 5. The evolution of variations on a theme; 6. The evolutionary origins of themes and novelties; 7. The evolutionary origins of body plans; 8. Body plan features and toolkit genes; 9. Bringing it all together; Concluding remarks; Summary of common misunderstandings; References; Index.

Read more less

Book SynopsisPractical Feline Behaviour contains all the relevant information that a veterinary nurse or technician needs to understand and handle the behaviour and welfare of house cats, and to offer safe and practical advice to clients. There have been ground-breaking advances in our understanding of feline behaviour in recent years and, to protect the welfare of cats, it is increasingly important that anyone involved with their care, especially those in a professional capacity, keep up to date with these developments. This approachable and down-to-earth text describes the internal and external influences on feline behaviour; on communication, learning, social behaviour, the relationship between behaviour and disease, and the cat - human relationship. It also provides practical advice on how the welfare of cats in our care may be protected and how behaviour problems should be addressed and how to avoid them. In this book Trudi Atkinson draws on her extensive experience as a veterinary nurse and a Certified Clinical Animal Behaviourist to provide a rapid reference and an intensely practical feline behaviour resource for owners, breeders, veterinary professionals, shelter and cattery workers and anyone involved in the care of our feline companions. - Practical, down to earth guide detailing all aspects of feline behaviour - Rapid reference for instant access to information - Written by a well-known animal behaviourist who has extensive experience in treating feline behaviour problems and in advising clients to protect the welfare of their cats - Includes a foreword by John Bradshaw, School of Veterinary Science at University of Bristol, UKTable of Contents-: About the Author -: Preface Part One: Understanding Feline Behaviour 1: The Origin and Evolution of the Domestic Cat 2: The Senses 3: Feline Communication 4: Social, Feeding and Predatory Behaviour 5: Kitten to Cat - Reproduction and the Behavioural Development of Kittens 6: Health and Behaviour 7: Learning, Training and Behaviour Part Two: Practical Feline Behaviour 8: Advice for Breeders 9: Advice for Prospective Cat Owners 10: Advice for Cat Owners 11: Advice for Veterinary Professionals 12: Advice for Other Cat Carers Appendix 1: Environmental Enrichment Appendix 2: Play Appendix 3: Reducing Resource Competition in a Multi-cat Household Appendix 4: Neutering Appendix 5: Introducing an Additional Cat to your Household Appendix 6: Helping a Grieving Cat Appendix 7: Introducing Cats and Dogs Appendix 8: Cat Flaps Appendix 9: Teaching Your Cat to Come to You When You Call Appendix 10: Cats, Babies and Children Appendix 11: House-training Your Cat or Kitten Appendix 12: Training Your Cat to Like the Cat Carrier Appendix 13: Medicating Your Cat Appendix 14: Teaching Your Cat or Kitten to Accept Veterinary Examination Appendix 15: First Aid Advice for Common Feline Behaviour Problems Appendix 16: Friend or Foe Appendix 17: Approaching, Stroking and Picking Up Appendix 18: Recognizing Stress

Read more less

Book SynopsisTrade Review"Longlisted for the AAAS/Subaru SB&F Prize for Excellence in Science Books, Hands-On category""Welcome to the Universe in 3D, the ideal gift for star gazers of all ages, brings readers a built-in stereo viewer...that enables a 3D tour of the universe. Armchair astronomers can peer through the stereo viewer, page through nearly 60 double images of the solar system and take in three-dimensional images from as far away as 13.8 billion light years .... Cheaper than a telescope, this is a marvelous introduction to astronomy" * Shelf Awareness *

Read more less

Book SynopsisA wise and inspiring manifesto about why understanding physics can make you happier, by one of the leading science writers of our time.Trade ReviewTim Radford's The Consolations of Physics is a love letter to the Voyager space probes. The poetry of their journey stimulated Radford to wax lyrical about the purpose of science. It is a beautiful, moving book that roams through the grand physics of recent decades. -- Michael Brooks * New Statesman, Books of the Year *Lyrical hymn to space exploration, knowledge and the enquiring mind... Helps quench our curiosity, yet deepens the mystery, about the cosmos and our attempts to discover more about it. -- Darragh McManus * Irish Independent *Beautiful, joyful, inspiring. A celebration of physicists' quest to understand the universe, from one of the best science writers around. -- Jo Marchant, New York Times bestselling author of CUREIt's rare that you get a book that connects Dante's Divine Comedy to the Higgs boson and the geology of limestone cliffs, and this weaving together of two thousand's years of intellectual thought is one of the many delights of this book. It's a hymn to scientific endeavour. -- Professor Mark Miodownik, New York Times bestselling author of STUFF MATTERSWow... Tim Radford's writing is so beautiful, it reads like poetry. A book more about life and passion than physics. People who have never cared a jot about physics (like me) must read this book. -- Suzanne O'Sullivan, Wellcome Prize-winning author of IT'S ALL IN YOUR HEADA beautiful, inspiring reflection on science, humanity, space, and matter - this would blow Boethius's mind. -- Sarah Bakewell, Sunday Times-bestselling author of HOW TO LIVE and AT THE EXISTENTIALIST'S CAFEAn appreciative survey of the vast canvas on which physicists do their creative work - the entire observable universe, from the beginning of time to its end (assuming there is one)... Beneath his jocularity, Radford is an unapologetic intellectual. -- Graham Farmelo * Guardian *Beautifully crafted 'love letter to physics'... His deft narrative interweaves discoveries such as the Higgs boson, the Hubble Deep Field and gravitational waves with Dante Alighieri's epic fourteenth-century poem The Divine Comedy, which intuited the laws of motion found by Galileo Galilei some 300 years later. -- Barbara Kiser * Nature *Engaging and delightful... In Radford's persuasive and genial company, as he roams from the initial singularity to dark energy, from Saint Augustine's City of God to Dante's The Divine Comedy, from the Higgs bosun to the multiverse, it's hard not to be moved by the fact that there are those who are capable of dreaming up and executing complex undertakings that explore the order that underpins creation. -- Manjit Kumar * Observer *Physics may not be a subject many people find consoling, but in this poetic paean to mankind's quest to make sense of the universe Tim Radford...might convert a few. -- Rob Kingston * Sunday Times *

Read more less

Book SynopsisTrade ReviewSince the publication of the first edition of the handbook in 1973, many thousands of novice and experienced beekeepers have relied on this book as the preferred single-volume guide to bee keeping * British Journal of Entomology and Natural History *

Read more less

Book SynopsisIn this beautiful and thorough investigation, The Secret Language of Color celebrates and illuminates the countless ways in which color colors our world.Why is the sky blue, the grass green, a rose red? Most of us have no idea how to answer these questions, nor are we aware that color pervades nearly all aspects of life, from the subatomic realm and the natural world to human culture and psychology.Organized into chapters that begin with a fascinating explanation of the physics and chemistry of color, The Secret Language of Color travels from outer space to Earth, from plants to animals to humans. In these chapters we learn about how and why we see color, the nature of rainbows, animals with color vision far superior and far inferior to our own, how our language influences the colors we see, and much more. Between these chapters, authors Joann Eckstut and Ariele Eckstut turn their attention to the individual hues of the visible spectrum?red, orange, yellow, green, blue, and violet?presenting each in fascinating, in-depth detail.Including hundreds of stunning photographs and dozens of informative, often entertaining graphics, every page is a breathtaking demonstration of color and its role in the world around us. Whether? you see red, are a shrinking violet, or talk a blue streak, this is the perfect book for anyone interested in the history, science, culture, and beatuty of color in the natural and man-made world.

Read more less

Book SynopsisJosh Clark and Chuck Bryant started the podcast Stuff You Should Know back in 2008 because they were curious-curious about the world around them, curious about what they might have missed in their formal educations, and curious to dig deeper on stuff they thought they understood.As it turns out, they aren''t the only curious ones. They''ve since amassed a rabid fan base, making Stuff You Should Know one of the most popular podcasts in the world. Armed with their inquisitive natures and a passion for sharing, they research and discuss a wide variety of topics-always working to uncover the weird, fascinating, delightful, or unexpected pieces of any given subject, and then talking about it together in an accessible and humorous way.The pair have now taken their near-boundless whys and hows from your earbuds to the pages of a book for the first time-and with it comes loads of new content, covering subjects about which they''ve long wondered or wanted to exp

Read more less

Book SynopsisEver wondered why your cat won't sit on your lap? Why she would suddenly watch the football on television, how she sees the world and what she thinks of you and your family? Prepare to enter the mind of your cat and revolutionise the way you see the world and your enigmatic pet.Bestselling cat author Celia Haddon and veterinary expert Dr Daniel Mills take you into the mind of your feline and, drawing on the latest scientific research, describe how your cat experiences the world. This is a unique book drawing on a wealth of veterinary science and studies, which relays those findings in a way that will amuse and delight owners. By placing you in the mind of your cat you will know what it's like physically, empirically, psychologically and emotionally to be your cat.Being Your Cat will fascinate and surprise those who wish to know the secret world of cats and reveals how their experiences don't always stray far from our own.

Read more less

Book SynopsisOver the course of six editions, the ways in which biology is taught have dramatically changed. We have seen a shift away from the memorization of details, which are easily forgotten, and a movement toward emphasizing core concepts. In parallel, many educators are advocating a greater emphasis on the development of critical thinking skills that are needed by students pursuing a career in Biology. The 6th edition of Brooker Biology balances Core Concepts with Core Skills helping engage students in science related fields of study.Additionally, with McGraw Hill Connect, powerful digital tools augment instruction by helping students think more critically, develop quantitative and graphing skills and apply their knowledge in a laboratory setting. Connect Virtual Labs can be implemented in a hybrid or fully online setting to help students prepare for the wet lab and strengthening their lab experience.Table of Contents1 An Introduction to BiologyUnit I Chemistry2 The Chemical Basis of Life I: Atoms,Molecules, and Water3 The Chemical Basis of Life II: OrganicMoleculesUnit II Cell4 Evolutionary Origin of Cells and Their GeneralFeatures5 Membrane Structure, Synthesis, and Transport6 An Introduction to Energy, Enzymes, andMetabolism7 Cellular Respiration and Fermentation8 Photosynthesis9 Cell Communication10 MulticellularityUnit III Genetics11 Nucleic Acid Structure, DNA Replication, andChromosome Structure12 Gene Expression at the Molecular Level I:Production of mRNAs and Proteins13 Gene Expression at the Molecular Level II:Non-coding RNAs14 Gene Expression at the Molecular Level III:Gene Regulation15 Mutation, DNA Repair, and Cancer16 The Eukaryotic Cell Cycle, Mitosis, andMeiosis17 Mendelian Patterns of Inheritance18 Epigenetics, Extranuclear Inheritance, andLinkage19 Genetics of Viruses and Bacteria20 Developmental Genetics21 Genetic Technologies and GenomicsUnit IV Evolution22 An Introduction to Evolution23 Population Genetics24 Origin of Species and Macroevolution25 Taxonomy and Systematics26 History of Life on Earth and Human EvolutionUnit V Diversity27 Archaea and Bacteria28 Protists29 Fungi30 Microbiomes: Microbial Systems On andAround Us31 Plants and the Conquest of Land32 The Evolution and Diversity of ModernGymnosperms and Angiosperms33 An Introduction to Animal Diversity34 The Invertebrates35 The VertebratesUnit VI Flowering Plants36 An Introduction to Flowering Plant Form andFunction37 Flowering Plants: Behavior38 Flowering Plants: Nutrition39 Flowering Plants: Transport40 Flowering Plants: ReproductionUnit VII Animals41 Animal Bodies and Homeostasis42 Neuroscience I: Cells of the Nervous System43 Neuroscience II: Evolution, Structure, andFunction of the Nervous System44 Neuroscience III: Sensory Systems45 Musculoskeletal Systems and Locomotion46 Nutrition and Animal Digestive Systems47 Control of Energy Balance, Metabolic Rate,and Body Temperature48 Circulatory and Respiratory Systems49 Excretory Systems50 Endocrine Systems51 Animal Reproduction and Development;52 Immune Systems53 Integrated Responses of Animal OrganSystems to a Challenge to HomeostasisUnit VIII Ecology54 An Introduction to Ecology and Biomes55 Behavioral Ecology56 Population Ecology57 Species Interactions58 Communities and Ecosystems: EcologicalOrganization on Large Scales59 The Ecological Impact of Humans60 Biodiversity and Conservation Biology

Read more less

Book SynopsisThis is a book about how ecologists can integrate remote sensing and GIS in their daily work. It will allow ecologists to get started with the application of remote sensing and to understand its potential and limitations. Using practical examples, the book covers all necessary steps from planning field campaigns to deriving ecologically relevant information through remote sensing and modelling of species distributions. All practical examples in this book rely on OpenSource software and freely available data sets. Quantum GIS (QGIS) is introduced for basic GIS data handling, and in-depth spatial analytics and statistics are conducted with the software packages R and GRASS. Readers will learn how to apply remote sensing within ecological research projects, how to approach spatial data sampling and how to interpret remote sensing derived products. The authors discuss a wide range of statistical analyses with regard to satellite data as well as specialised topics such as time-series analysis. Extended scripts on how to create professional looking maps and graphics are also provided. This book is a valuable resource for students and scientists in the fields of conservation and ecology interested in learning how to get started in applying remote sensing in ecological research and conservation planning.Trade ReviewRemote Sensing and GIS for Ecologists could become an essential undergraduate-level textbook, but it is also a guide to practising ecologists who want to broaden their toolkit. * Conservation Biology *We recommend this book not only as an interesting and informative guide to remote sensing concepts, but also as a vehicle to quickly delve into hands-on processing and analysis of remote sensing data to answer many questions relevant to landscape ecologists. -- Danica Schaffer-Smith and Jennifer J. Swenson * Landscape Ecology *Table of ContentsIntroduction 1 Spatial Data and Software 2 Introduction to Remote Sensing and GIS 3 Where to Obtain Spatial Data? 4 Spatial Data Analysis for Ecologists: First Steps 5 Pre-Processing Remote Sensing Data 6 Field Data for Remote Sensing Data Analysis 7 From Spectral to Ecological Information 8 Land Cover or Image Classification Approaches 9 Land Cover Change or Change Detection 10 Continuous Land Cover Information 11 Time Series Analysis 12 Spatial Land Cover Pattern Analysis 13 Modelling Species Distributions 14 Introduction to the added value of Animal Movement Analysis and Remote Sensing Outlook and Acknowledgements Index

Read more less

Book SynopsisSTORY OF A COMMUNISTthe first volume of Negri's three-part autobiographygives a riveting account of his intellectual development and of the price he paid for living out his ideals.

Read more less

Book SynopsisExplores the wealth of evidence for the reality of the biofield. Examining the wealth of evidence supporting the reality of the human biofield, Eric Leskowitz, M.D., explores the role of life energy in healing therapies and outlines its many manifestations at the individual, group, and global levels. He shows how energy therapies have been taboo in the West, from the French Royal Academy’s suppression of Franz Mesmer’s animal magnetism, to the FDA’s persecution of Wilhelm Reich and his orgone box therapy, to Wikipedia’s biased coverage of energy psychology. He then reveals irrefutable evidence for the clinical benefits of energy-based therapies and describes the obstacles he faced in his own attempts to bring these holistic approaches into the world of academic medicine. The author’s detailed exploration of phantom limb pain shows that this phenomenon is not a psychosomatic creation of the brain but is a tangible energetic st

Read more less

Book SynopsisRoger Spitz is a futurist, author, and President of Techistential, a foresight strategy consultancy. He also chairs the Disruptive Futures Institute, a global education hub which empowers organizations and entrepreneurs. His work has been featured in numerous media outlets, such as Fast Company, WIRED, and MIT Technology Review. He is based in San Francisco, USA.

Read more less