What Are the Available Programs For Molecular Biology PhD?

For those who want to pursue their doctorate on molecular biology but are too busy with their work or other occupation, there is now a convenient alternative. You can now employ the internet as a tool to accomplish your academic goals. Nowadays, a doctoral program in molecular biology is already available online. People in this field can now take the necessary courses through the web.

The online programs differ depending on the school. There are institutions that require a student at least three years to finish the program but there are also institutions that offer less duration. The lectures are available to all the university's students but the graduate tutorials on molecular biology are exclusive to the students of the said program. EPR Spectroscopy, nuclear magnetic resonance, crystallography and different types of metabolisms are some of the subjects that are available in the internet-based academic program. The initial part of the Molecular Biology PhD program includes lectures about these topics.

Convenience is the primary advantage in entering this online program. Even if you have a regular job, you can still continue your studies through this. The materials that are needed for this will be sent to the student through postal service. Because of this, a lot of self-studying is required.

But there are also times when the actual presence of the student is required because the syllabus also contains retreats and seminars that are needed in the graduate study of molecular biology. So you have to make time for the few instances that your presence is actually needed.

Before enrolling in a graduate program on molecular biology online, be sure that you have accomplished all the requirements. Check first if all the courses and subjects that you took in your bachelor's and master's degree are recognized by the academic institution that you want to enter. Different universities have different curricula so some of the courses that are credited in a certain school may not be credited in others.

Despite the fact that you're studying online, there may be situations that you'll need to utilize the university's facilities. So be sure to take a look first at the school's facilities and resources to ensure a comfortable learning environment.

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Biospheres: Reproducing Planet Earth

Dorion Sagan's 1990 paperback Biospheres: Reproducing Planet Earth (McGraw-Hill Publishing, ISBN 0-553-28883-0) does more than deliver a unique vision of the planet's life support system. It also challenges the traditional view of humanity as the dominant feature of life on Earth.

Perhaps that is no less than should be expected from the offspring of astronomer Carl Sagan and biologist Lynn Margulis, whose unorthodox view of evolutionary biology sees life forms merging to produce new ones. Sagan the younger is well known as an author of books on culture, evolution, and the philosophy of science.

Ecospheres to Biosphere 2

Among the more interesting features of the book are the mentions of still-existing institutions that are unexpectedly abiding features of the economic and technological landscape.

For example, Ecospheres Associates in Tucson, Arizona manufactures and sells sealed glass balls filled with water containing green algae, other microscopic biota, and tiny shrimp in a symbiotic community that illustrates the principle of closed life support. It is one illustration of what Sagan calls "permanently recycling systems." Called EcoSpheres, they come in a variety of sizes, from 4 inches in diameter to 9 inches, are priced like small kitchen appliances, and have "replacement periods" of up to a year. With care, they can last for many years. EcoSpheres are a NASA spin-off, the first product of US experiments to create closed ecosystems, ultimately for humans in space habitats.

"Bioshelters", earthbound biospheres for individuals, families, and small groups, were a product of the gone-but-not-forgotten New Alchemy Institute (1969-1991). Between Apollo 11 and Biosphere 2, New Alchemy built several bioshelters it called "arks" at Cape Cod Massachusetts, Prince Edward Island (eastern Quebec), and other places. The Green Center at Hatchville, MA preserves New Alchemy's information legacy.

Ocean Arcs International, founded by the same people who brought you bioshelters, created the self-sustaining oceangoing vessels mentioned in Biospheres. Their idea of sailing Earth's oceans as little sea colonies, without dependence on anything nonrenewable, including fossil fuels, has since mutated into a wastewater processing method that might qualify as a technology for space colonies.

Biosphere 2, 35 miles north of Tucson, was taking shape just as Biospheres the book was nearing completion. The site has become Southern Arizona's best-known technological wonder. Situated among the red rocks of the Santa Catalina Mountains, out of sight of Highway 77 and the ordinary built environment, it is said that on certain summer evenings under one of those ruby Arizona sunsets, all of the visual cues are Martian. From the library tower of the human habitat, across a miniature ocean, rain forest, desert, savannah, and marshland, Biosphere 2 is 3.14 acres of Earth under glass. It has operated since 2007 as a research station and educational outreach project of the University of Arizona under a ten-year, $30 million grant from the Philecology Foundation.

Of Mice and Men

But the book has a downside. Its core philosophy is environmentalism, which is worthy of suspicion because of its tendency to denigrate humanity. Sagan is at risk for this as well, displaying a fairly consistent antihuman drumbeat that is easily the most off-putting feature of his little book.

Each human being, says Sagan, is both a multi-species assemblage and a unit of a larger organism. The typical Homo sapiens' surface is inhabited by a microbiological community of bacteria, fungi, round worms, pin worms, etc. Our guts are densely-packed tubes of bacteria, yeasts, and other microorganisms. To add further insult, the Lovelockian view of Gaia, Mother Earth, which Sagan describes sympathetically, features humans as mere components. It's almost enough to make one decide to leave all the dirt and non-human DNA behind, and build strictly artificial worlds, just to prove that we can. Except that we can't, as anyone who disturbs the equilibrium of their digestive jungle soon discovers.

Truly, though, there is something disturbing about the idea, also found here, that the Gaia hypothesis could become the basis of some new green theocracy. What power would priests of the green religion have, and to what ends? We find some indication by the value assigned to individuals in the Lovelockian philosophy as Sagan portrays it: Individuals are of no consequence. They are numbers, large amounts of inessential biomass, and those numbers need to be contained. All of us who do not pass from the scene by means best left undescribed are to be midwives in the reproduction of the original biosphere, creating isolated cocoons of life in space, or maybe not. Right there, Sagan loses his clarity of vision. He thinks maybe we should just build protective pods to shield the offspring of Mother Earth from her dying body. OK. That's a little weird. Also, that's enough bashing of Men for their reproductive proclivities. I happen to like people, at least in principle.

Sagan says we ALL like people, and not just in principle. We like them so much that we are on the way to becoming a superorganism made up of individual humans the way our bodies are made of cells. To prevent these "cells" from reproducing wildly into superorganism "tumors", Sagan feels we shall adopt new cultural norms like infanticide and abortion, maybe also a little criminality and sexual perversion. Before too long, by way of demonstrating the effects of crowding, he works his way around to the rodent experiments of Dr. John B. Calhoun. If one takes the results at face value and allows them to be projected upon the human future, then, as Sagan points out, only grim conclusions are possible.

Sagan would have done well to point out that the standard interpretation of Calhoun's results is not necessarily the best one. The mouse "universes" of John Calhoun's creation did become crowded over time (though never reaching more than about 80% of capacity). They were also closed from the start, making emigration impossible. Population biologists regard emigration and death in the same light. That is because they are unable to follow individuals once they leave a controlled area. But, as any human explorer knows, emigration and death are not the same thing. A more complete interpretation of Calhoun's outcomes reflects the impossibility of a breakout, concluding that the mouse populations failed, not because they were dense, but because they were trapped in an enclosure.

Such side trips down depressing rabbit holes explain why the book in some ways stumbles rather than soars. Not until near the end do we again take up the ennobling view of Man the Builder of Worlds as opposed to Man trapped inside some kind of planet-sized monster in space. We pick up the thread at the Soviet Bios program of the early 1980s, which maintained two human beings in a complete life support system independent of Earth for a five-month simulated space journey.

Biospherians

Ten years later than Bios, much bigger, and more Capitalist, Biosphere 2 is a significant extension of the theme Sagan tries to express. A project of Edward P. Bass's Decisions Investments (as Space Biospheres Ventures), it is the largest and most complete simulation of the earth ever undertaken. The apparatus is as much a technological object as a biological one. Its basement "technosphere" includes systems for controlling temperature, filtering water, balancing internal pressure, fighting fires, and supporting the scientific activities of eight "biospherians." It is also art, a self-portrait of Man in the late twentieth century. Like the book, Biosphere 2 is more of a quest than a destination. Both are pearls, not so much because of what they say, or fail to say, or how they say it, but because of the questions they raise, most notably, "Who are we?"

Laurence B. Winn is an engineer, pilot, adventurer, and author. Get a free download of Chapter 1 of his new book Survivors from Earth at http://www.alienlandscapes.biz/.

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Top 10 Popular Science Books

1. Annals of a Former World, by John McPhee

In patient, lyrical prose, McPhee takes the reader on a geologic journey through the United States. This volume was originally published as 4 books; each is centered on a road trip the author took with a geologist, observing the earth next to Eisenhower's great US highways for clues into its geologic past. Annals has this--no borders, idealistic, On the Road for geologists kind of feel (though a bit more grown-up.) I pick up Annals every once in a while when im in a relaxed mood, when im looking for a good example of literary science writing. Highly recommended as a companion for camping trips, if you can fit it into your pack.

2. Surely You're Joking, Mr, Feynman, by Richard Feynman

A string of excerpts from Feynman's life/career, Surely You're Joking is probably the popular science book I have read through the most times, not because it is short, but because it is at once compelling, understated, and full of indispensible scientific concepts. Richard Feynman has an uncanny ability to make physics easily digestible, his lectures are a testament to that and Surely You're Joking is no exception. Feynman's easy prose makes the reader feel like physics is understandable, as if he has laid out a diagram of the universe on his living room floor--no one is an outsider. It's delightful. Feynman's in my 'top 5 people I would give my right pinky finger to meet' category.

3. A Short History of Nearly Everything, by Bill Bryson

The second heavy volume on the list, A Short History is packed with nearly everything. It takes a look at the science behind a lot of things--beauty, cells, evolution, the universe. Bryson rejects the traditional notion of a 'textbook' with this book, making science seem relevant in our daily lives AND putting this knowledge in the context of the universe--in space and time. Capturing the detailed nooks where science is often concentrated AND eliciting the wonder of the wider perspective is an accomplishment--savor it wherever you can find it. Great in audio book format.

4. The Richness of Life, collection of essays by Stephen Jay Gould

The idiosyncratic Gould has written articles in Natural History and many other science magazines for decades and is one of the most widely read modern science writers. In this collection of articles, Gould's highly intellectual, witty, and pin-accurate prose explains evolutionary theory, racism or baseball with a scientist's eye, but in a way that engages the layman. Gould's dedication to science shows in every piece. Delightful.

5. The Canon, by Natalie Angier

Someone at the New York Times science desk once told me--"Natalie Angier is the queen of metaphor." I have to agree. The Canon is the best example of her witty prose winding the reader through simple scientific questions with difficult answers. In this book, Angier tackles what she has deemed the basic scientific concepts everyone should know: thinking scientifically, probabilities, calibration, physics, evolutionary biology, chemistry, molecular biology, astronomy and geology. Phew. I have to say--this could have been very text-book, but because of her writing style, is masterful. I actually have had many non-scientist friend recommend this to me, which is always a good sign.

6. Universe in a Teacup, by K.C. Cole

Where can you find a book that successfully intertwines the discipline of mathematics, with the concepts of truth and beauty? Universe is just such a book; K.C.'s most popular and in some ways seminal volume. Metaphors she uses pack a punch. Her prose style is somewhat poetic, and in Universe, she proves adept at explain things like chaos or phase transitions are illuminating--not just because you finally understand some science concept that always seem so obscure, but because Cole has also given the you a new way to think about mathematics and the world alongside your new understanding. (Full disclosure--Cole was my academic mentor)

7. The Code Book, by Simon Singh

Packed with information about the history of codes, how to break them, and who figured it all out, this book has a kind-of James Bond appeal. Various scientists and politicians have acted as code-makers and code-breakers from antiquity until modern day, and codes are increasingly important in computer technology and national security. The stories behind the codes are so fascinating i hardly even realized that i was learning about the mathematics of code theory in the process.

8. Enduring Love, by Ian McEwan

Ok, so not everyone would categorize this as a popular science book, but Ill include it anyway. Enduring Love is a fiction book, partially written from the perspective of a former scientist, but more importantly, it is a suspenseful story that lets the author's attitudes towards life bleed through each and every page. Ian McEwan is a well-know rationalist who believes that science is just as much a part of culture as anything else--a position with which I very much empathize. This is a literary tale, sure, but McEwan manages to mention scientific ideas all over the place, integrating science and its ways of thinking into the lives of his complex characters and slowly revealing situations. It's a page-turner.

9. The Double Helix, by James Watson

Though scientist James Watson doesn't have a Stephen Jay Gould command of language and metaphor, The Double Helix still stands as an absolutely riveting account of the series of events that lead up to the discovery of DNA's structure. In the book, scientists Watson, Crick, Maurice Wilkens, and Rosalind Franklin become fascinating characters in a race to figure out what DNA looks like at a molecular level. Each has their own motivations. Each has their own complications. All but Franklin eventually received a Nobel Prize for this work (she died before the award could include her.) A quick, easy read.

10. In the Shadow of Man, by Jane Goodall

A classic book--easy read, no jargon. Goodall's observations of chimpanzee's in the wild first brought to light one of man's most recent ancestors--the chimpanzee. This book chronicles some of Goodall's groundbreaking research through her own observations about chimp behavior. Once immersed in the book, I couldn't help but think--we are all just apes, evolved from or related to one another. Puts things in perspective.

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The Ascent of Man

What separates man from other primates, or indeed other animals? Jacob Bronowski, a mathematician trained in physics, examines the scientific and intellectual history of humankind in his book The Ascent of Man. Though the book is based on the television series aired on BBC in the 1970s, it is far from outdated. Over 30 years after it was first published; The Ascent of Man still invokes pride in our past and instills hope for our future in the reader.

Covering a wide canvas from the dawn of man until the modern times, Bronowski examines how man has been the shaper of his surroundings rather than being shaped by it. Every other species has been adapted to fit into a certain ecological niche; they have evolved for a particular environment. Man, despite his comparatively weak physical attributes has been able to shape the world with his unique set of gifts. Bronowski believes that it was not so much biological evolution, but cultural evolution that has made man what he is today.

Tracing the evolution of human from their hunter gather phase to the present one, he says that the change in diet from plant to animal based materials gave humans more time free to spend on building capabilities to get food from sources that could not be tackled by brute force. The most marked effect of this was to foster group action and communication. The next single largest step in the ascent of man was the change from a nomadic way of life to village agriculture, made possible by a set of natural and human events. Settled agriculture creates a technology from which all sciences take off.

Taking the reader on a journey through time, Bronowski delights in the inventions and scientific discoveries made over the last ten thousand years- from the domestication of wheat in 8000 BC to the double helix structure of the DNA in the 1950s. He describes the tools that extend the human hand as an instrument of vision- they reveal new structures and make it possible to put them together in imaginative combinations.

By delving deep into the lives and thoughts of an extraordinary range of people, Bronowski discusses a wider range of complex subjects from Anthropology to Astronomy and from Mathematics to the Life Sciences. He reveals the linkages that bring together cultures by introducing us to Pythagoras, who found a basic relation between musical harmony and mathematics, Euclid, Ptolemy and Arab scholars who delighted in calculation and geometry. The author demonstrates how the spread of ideas along the trade routes - the spread of the numeral system for notation of numbers from the Arab world and the decimal system from India - changed mathematics forever.

From mathematics to astronomy is a logical step. The Mayan civilization housed their astronomers in pyramid like structures and developed calendars to trace the journey of the stars, Copernicus placed the sun at the centre of the planetary system and Galileo gave his life to prove that this was so. The lives of these people have a profound impact on the modern way of life. While no account of the ascent of man can leave out Isaac Newton and Albert Einstein, Bronowski describes more than their work. He shows us how they thought and how their characters defined their work.

The Industrial Revolution was the greatest discoverer of power- a time when new sources of energy were discovered and used. With this came many of the characteristics of the modern world that we abhor- the factory system with inhuman work hours, tyrannical bosses, pollution and the domination of men by machines. While bringing these to our notice, Bronowski does not leave out the other side of this age - the delight of discovery and the sense of fun in finding new ways of doing things. He believes that this revolution is as important as the Renaissance in the ascent of man- while one established the dignity of man; the other established the unity of nature.

Describing the theory of evolution by natural selection put forward by Charles Darwin and Alfred Wallace, Bronowski says that it was the most important single scientific innovation of the nineteenth century. It shows that the world is in movement and that creation is not static; it changes with time unlike the physical world. Another discovery that has shaped biology is one by contemporary scientists, which express the cycle of life in a chemical form that links them to nature as a whole.

Turing to the physical sciences, Bronowski says that the aim of the physical sciences has been to give an exact picture of the material world. One achievement of physics in the twentieth century has been to prove that aim is unattainable! Physicists have shown that there is no absolute knowledge; all information is imperfect and we have to treat it with humility.

In the last chapter in book, titled The Long Childhood, Bronowski goes back to what makes man human and what has made the ascent of man possible. He says, "We are all afraid - for our confidence, for the future, for the world. That is the nature of the human imagination. Yet every man, every civilization has gone forward because of its engagement with what it has set itself to do. The personal commitment of man to his skill, the intellectual commitment and the emotional commitment working together as one, has made the Ascent of Man."

Ilmas Futehally is the Vice President of Strategic Foresight Group, a think tank based in Mumbai, India.

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The Cobra Event (want to lose some sleep tonight?); Book Review

The Cobra Event by Richard Preston is a worthwhile book to read indeed, but it will scare the be-Jesus out of you also. This is quite a heavy book to read and if you are an intellectual type of person, then it should frighten you.

Having also read the book; Germs and many other similar books and having kept up to date on recent scientific findings, I realize how serious and realistic this book is. Biological human distributed pathogens are real and we must indeed make sure we keep these biological scientists who consider using these things on mass population bases at bay and prevent them from ruining life on Earth as we know it. The United States of America may indeed have a missile defense system, but unless we have a way to detect and protect the American people from such dastardly deeds such as is described in Cobra Event we will be sorry. It is time for all of America to wake up and realize, how important it is to pay attention to where all these scientists who practice this line of work are and exactly what they are doing now, for whom and why.

Additionally we need to consider all the nations, which are experimenting and trying to perfect such bio weapons. Indeed, this book is intense, it is realistic and it scared the . . . out of me. Perhaps some reading it may not be scared, but if you have half a brain you will have to really stop and think about how serious these issues are. Read the book and see for your self and consider all this in 2006.

"Lance Winslow" - Online Think Tank forum board. If you have innovative thoughts and unique perspectives, come think with Lance; www.WorldThinkTank.net/. Lance is an online writer in retirement.

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The God Delusion by Richard Dawkins

Many heroes, villains and wars have been created because of monotheism (the belief in the existence of one god), but science and the technologies science produces are used in these wars.

The author Richard Dawkins has a very extreme style of writing in this particular book, he doesn't mess about and storms in with very direct poignancy, so if you are deeply spiritual and religious, perhaps this is not the best choice of book for you......

The God Delusion is a remarkable argument against God, controversy arises as Dawkins blames god for a number of misdeeds against humanity and also blames him of being "psychotic".

Dawkins frustrations are caused with the theory of intelligent design and a host of other related issues, he throws an avalanche of hard evidence to bolster his case, Dawkins is a fascinating literary character that's out to slay old stories and non scientifically backed views.

"The God Delusion" is full of strong arguments of cosmic proportions and it affects our current world view.

Lets me put it like this, if you are religious and attempted to have an argument with Dawkins you better have your facts straight.

In Dawkins book the God delusion he puts powerful arguments forward that debase and unravel any and most religious doctrines and fallacies.

Why the extreme tone? Well i think this is because the man is determined not to see young children indoctrinated with a view that is not based on facts.

Dawkings is 100% atheist and the god delusion is his testimony.

Creationists and believers in God will no doubt see him as the devil incarnate and non religious scientists will see him as being very astute and intellectual.

He has been called a fundamentalist, but his argument is as follows "given proof that i am wrong i would at once change my opinions, whereas a true fundamentalist clings to his faith whatever the challenge"

Whatever you think about this book, i think it is very important to ask questions of everything in life. The God Delusion manages to ask lots of questions so this can only be a good thing.

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Review of on Natural Selection by Charles Darwin

I have been researching great thinkers and how they have shaped the world. I have also been trying to prove that the act of reading helps to generate or even stimulate great ideas. Great thinkers do not operate within a vacuum, they rely on the works of others, and often expand the original thought and take the world further. Charles Darwin and British biologist Alfred Russel Wallace independently arrived at similar theories of Natural Selection in the mid-1800s after reading Essay on the Principle of Population by British pastor Thomas Malthus.

Darwin defines natural selection as the "preservation of favourable variations and the rejection of injurious variation." So what does this all mean? Darwin further adds, "Variations neither useful nor injurious would not be affected by natural selection, and would be left a fluctuating element, as perhaps we see in the species called polymorphic... Natural selection can act only by taking advantage of slight variations; she can never take a leap, but must advance by the shortest steps."

This book wasn't the easiest to read, and I found it quite "dry". But, in my quest to find out where really good ideas come from, I made the sacrifice and slogged through it. I have selected fives ideas from On Natural Selection. For the five ideas below, how can you use them in different contexts to resolve/understand modern day problems?

Five Good Ideas

When a plant or animal is placed in a new country amongst new competitors, though the climate may be exactly the same as its former home, yet the conditions of its life will generally be changed in an essential manner. If we wished to increase its average numbers in its new home, we should have to modify it in a different way to what we should have done in its native country; for we should have to give it some advantage over a different set of competitors or enemies.Individuals having any advantage, however slight, over others, would have the best chance of surviving and of procreating their kindWhen a species, owing to highly favourable circumstances, increases inordinately in numbers in a small tract, epidemics often ensueThe more diversified the descendants from any one species become in structure, constitution, and habits, by so much will they be better enabled to seize on many and widely diversified places in the polity of nature, and so be enabled to increase in numbersNatural selection is working behind the scenes all the time throughout the world whenever the opportunity arises. It works to improve each organic being in relation to its organic and inorganic conditions of life. You cannot see these slow changes taking place, until after a long period of time has elapsed, we see that the forms of life are now different from what they formerly were

We could take idea number two and look at it in the context of education. It's a reasonable assumption to make that people who are more educated have a better chance of succeeding than those who have less education. Or, for that same idea, we could say, someone who has an idea and knows how to take action, will be more successful than someone who has ideas but do nothing about them. Success in this context is not restricted to financial success. Why don't you take one of the above five ideas and see what new ideas you can generate?

I recommend On Natural Selection because I am sure that you will come up with your own five ideas. This is not a book that you would read for entertainment, but it will certainly stretch you.

Avil Beckford, Chief Invisible Mentor, writer and researcher with over 15 years of experience is the published author of Tales of People Who Get It and its companion workbook Journey to Getting It. Subscribe to the Invisible Mentor Blog http://theinvisiblementor.com/ for great information to ignite your hidden genius, and explore the Resources page for free white papers and an e-book.

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Aqua House - Architecture That Integrates Water Technically and Aesthetically

Stephanie Madison of Habitus Living interviews the author about his book "Aqua House, Architecture that Integrates Water Technically and Aesthetically" Can you please elaborate on what inspired you to write Aqua Houses and the key ideas in the book?

Current concerns about global water usage and the increasing pollution of it's environments is what inspired me to write Aqua House. The book focuses on the relationship of water and architecture. It re-examines the place that it occupies in architecture in order to determine how current practices in architecture contribute to the pollution of water environments and to what is believed to be an unsustainable usage of it. The book then seeks to investigate how some of these practices in architecture could be modified in the future in order to mitigate the water problem.

The key idea in the book is how can the design of a house integrate the technical and aesthetic functions of water?

I have attempted to answer this by designing a building (Aqua House) that works with both the aesthetic and technical functions of aqua. In addition, the design integrates water and architecture in a way that could contribute to reducing contamination of the water environment. While Aqua House is a small project, focused on the problem of residential architecture it can perhaps help raise awareness of wider water issues. The lessons learned can perhaps be extrapolated to a re-examination of other types of buildings and urban environments, where a wider set of water issues could be examined.

In following the principles outlined in Aqua Houses, how can consumers integrate water-wise solutions into their homes that are both technically efficient and architecturally aesthetically appealing?

The principles outlined in Aqua House is that rain, which is collected, recycled and cleansed, is celebrated and organises the house. An example of how consumers could integrate water-wise solutions into their homes is to locate in the entry hall of their house a reflection pool that stores high quality water. It would celebrate the triumph of harvested water in the way that the sink in the foyer of Villa Savoye does, and invites cleansing of a guest's journey. Another example is to have a structure that consists of a series of aqua columns. The water columns replace the underground water cistern or solid water tanks used in other the sustainable houses allowing visual appreciation and awareness of quantity of the stored water, while also being used to supply the water needs.

What do you envision consumers wanting in terms of water-wise architectural spaces in the future, please describe? Why do you think consumers will be drawn to these spaces/design elements etc?

I envision consumers wanting water-wise architectural spaces to experience the various states and transformations, its distinctive tastes, sounds and smells. Water's beauty is in its fluidity, transparency and reflective-ness. For example water has symbolic meanings: to Chinese Feng Shui it represents good chi and in Christianity, it means cleansing. People are naturally drawn towards water for its aesthetic qualities and musicians frequently celebrate it in their work. Schubert's Water Songs, Deep Purple's Smoke on the Water, Simon and Garfunkel's Bridge over Troubled Water, Lady in the Water, The Wild River, Water Lilies are some examples of music and movies inspired by water. Paintings by artists like Hockney, Dali, Picasso, Monet, Escher, English all depict the beauty of water.

I think consumers will be drawn to the integrated design solutions knowing that each year they are sending 0.0 litres of effluent and 0.0 litres of stormwater to the rivers and oceans, and manage in the process to celebrate it.

For more about the book go to http://www.amazon.com/AQUA-House-Architecture-Technically-andAesthetically/dp/3639042778/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1259274607&sr=8-1

Les Dykstra of Architects-ldl is an Award-winning Master Architect, Designer of Houses, Apartments, Renovations, Interiors, Commercial, School, Hotel and Green Buildings. For more information visit our website http://www.architects-ldl.co.nz/

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Biology, Science and Nature Books

Astronomy and Cosmology

Cosmology is the name given to a range of natural sciences, including both physics and astronomy that intends to provide an explanation for how the universe works as an integrated entity. Over the centuries, since the Pythagoreans in Greece during the 6th century BC considered the possibility that Earth was spherical, cosmology has come a long way and has integrated a variety of different fields of science.

Cosmology evolved from the observation of these Greeks who interpreted the natural laws of the heavenly bodies from which, eventually, the Ptolemaic model developed during the second century AD. Centuries later, during the 16th century, the Copernican system further developed the theories surrounding astronomy and cosmology - followed, in the 20th century, by the theories of special relativity and Albert Einstein's Theory of General Relativity. Overall, however, the case for cosmology states that the laws of physics work the same everywhere and that there is homogeneity throughout the universe.

'The Holographic Universe', written by Michael Talbot, tells its story in two parts: the first part devotes 55 pages to discussing David Bohm's holographic model of the universe - simplified into everyday language by Talbot. The second part of the book delves into events of the paranormal while, at the same time, attempting to rationalise the holographic model. Talbot introduces the reader to Karl Pribram as well as the philosophies of David Bohm.

Chemistry

Chemistry and biochemistry often go hand-in-hand, existing in parallel with other scientific disciplines such as dietetics [the science of food]. McCance and Widdowson, who produce 'The Composition of Foods' summarises food composition tables and updates much in the way of nutrition as a science. The foreword to the 6th edition has been written by Sir John Krebs while the actual volume itself provides an invaluable source of reference to dieticians and nutritionists the world over.

Meanwhile,'Principles of Biochemistry' by Nelson D has been described as a 'modern approach to biochemistry'. Personally, one of the best biochemistry books I have ever encountered was that written by Patterson - now, sadly, long since out of print. I attribute my successful pass in the biochemistry exams to the presence of Patterson which, by the time I had finished with it, was particularly dog-eared! Nelson D's 'Principles of Biochemistry' really is the next best thing to Patterson and a worthy successor.

Earth Sciences and Geography

Earth sciences are a catch-all term covering a different range of natural sciences from those mentioned above. These relate to the study of the earth and how different parts of it are interlinked to produce that homogenous whole that is the classic feature of the scientific world. If you are interested in the world around you then you may be interested in a lovely book by Gavin Pretor-Pinney. This book 'The Cloud Collector's Handbook' is full of charming pictures, below which you will find a short description of each cloud and space for you to record your own sightings. It certainly gives a new connotation to having your head in the clouds!

Education

If you think about it, there is all the difference in the world between someone who loves school and somebody who loves to learn: it doesn't necessarily follow that, if you love to learn, then you must enjoy school. Education, however, is all about learning for the sheer pleasure of gaining new information. This learning may or may not be associated with school: it can even cover any subject. Evidence of this can be seen in Richard Dawkins' book 'The Greatest Show on Earth: The Evidence for Evolution'.

Dawkins goes about educating his readers, explaining to them how fossils can be dated accurately, all about plate tectonics etc, before going into the details of how these may be linked with the global distribution of plants and animals and the effects changes in these physical elements can have on them. Dawkins, whilst making it clear that he is aware [and who could not be?] of the great debate on creation v evolution, doesn't get drawn into the minutiae surrounding this eternal dispute.

Engineering and Technology

One book that I simply have to recommend is a fantastic book written by Jo Marchant. You will find it in our Science and Nature section under the heading of Engineering and Technology. The first thing to say is that this is not some dry and boring technical tome. This book relates the story behind a particularly ancient Greek artefact and what it took to decode its hidden mysteries. The book is called 'Decoding the Heavens: Solving the Mystery of the World's First Computer'. I wish Jo Marchant had found a more intriguing title for her book because this title really doesn't do this book justice.

The book relates the story of the Antikythera Mechanism which has been shown to have amazing capabilities as an astronomical calculator: scientists believe its complexity was at least 1500 years before its time. The Antikythera Mechanism artifact is a good 2,000 years old and was found during a dive in 1901. Scientists have been attempting to unravel its secrets ever since. So, if it's a true-life mystery you are interested, or a book that's a bit different I would strongly recommend this well-written and interesting book of Jo Marchant's.

There are innumerable other sub-genres to be found within our Science and Nature section, covering quite an array of subjects. If you are a fan of the border collie, Barbara Sykes writes a delightful treatise on 'Understanding Border Collies'. This is an excellent book written by somebody who really does understand the intricacies that go to make up this breed of dog and is an absolute 'must have' for all the lovers of border collies out there. Changing from dogs to elephants, I would certainly recommend 'The Elephant Whisperer: Learning about Life, Loyalty and Freedom from a Remarkable Herd of Elephants' - it will really pull on your heartstrings then have you howling with laughter! Check out all the other options within this section - you will probably amaze yourself at the treasure trove of titles hidden within our web pages!

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The Biology of Belief - Unleashing the Power of Consciousness, Matter and Miracles

Book Review: The Biology of Belief, Unleashing the Power of Consciousness Matter & Miracles by Bruce Lipton

Dr. Bruce Lipton in "The Biology of Belief" states that "every material structure in the universe, including you and me, radiates a unique energy signature". He has proposed methods for healing and has made the complex topic of biological organisms much easier.

Epigenetics is the study of heritable changes in gene appearance or expression that is caused by something outside of changes in the underlying DNA sequence - Wikipedia.com

Epigenetics is a new field of biology that is been explored by Bruce. He unravels the obscure nature and behavior of cells under the influence of the environment. His view is that every individual cell functions as a universe, while the membrane saves the cell from foreign bodies and acts like the security guard who lets in the 'beneficial' and keeps out the 'harmful'.

We know that the 'cell' is the structural and functional unit of all living things, plants and animals. Lipton illustrates to us that the cells possess some kind of intelligence and therefore the cell can be taught through thinking and experience. As a result people should act and react in a positive manner to the environment, thoughts, suggestions and to outside energy.

We have enormous influence on the intellectual composition and framework of this cellular structure. Our influence can be so large that the cell genetics can be changed. The genetic propensity can also be changed by teaching the individual cell what to do next and also by shifting our mental and physical environment so that each and every cell can know and comprehend the type of alterations they need to create.

I found the topic of discussion in the biology of belief outstanding, we have all heard or perhaps have friends that are never ill or do not suffer from colds and flu as most other people do. This book and other experiences in my life make me think that just maybe if we believe that we will be healthy and have a positive outlook on life then we will be healthier, interesting read.

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Triplet Genetic Code - A Book Review Which Allows the Reader to Better Understand DNA Nutrition

This book presents the basics of what the genetic code is, so that the reader can have a basis of understanding of molecular biology. The backbone of the book is the central dogma of molecular biology, which is the idea that information flows from DNA to RNA to protein. It not only defines and discusses what the genetic code is, but discusses the rules of the genetic code and the type of mutations that can occur in the system.

The basic building blocks of both DNA and mRNA are adenine, thymine, guanine, and cytosine. These are defined as nitrogen bases and are usually labeled A, T, G, and C. These bases code for twenty specific amino acids. The twenty amino acids that can be created are as follows: alanine, arginine, asparagine, aspartate, cysteine, glutamine, glutamate, glycine, histidine, isoleucine, leucine, lysine, methionine, phenylalanine, praline, serine, threonine, tryptophan, tyrosine, and valine. A nucleotide is defined as a linked bunch of molecules, composed of a phosphate group, nitrogenous bases, and a pentose sugar. The nucleotides code for these amino acids in groups of three, giving 64 possible combinations. The groups of threes are called codons. There are actually three codons that don't code for amino acids. These codons are called stop codons and they signal signal translation termination. These codons are UAA, UAG, and UGA.

The genetic code is said to be degenerate. This means that the code doesn't code to its capacity. Basically, the twenty known amino acids that can be created by the genetic code can be made by more than one type of nucleotide sequence. For instance, CUU, CUC, CUA, and CUG all code for the amino acid leucine. Another example is that CGU, CGC, CGA, and CGG all code for arginine.

According to the book, there are three main rules for the genetic code. The first rule is that the sequence of nitrogenous bases must follow the direction of translation. mRNA is translated in the 5' to 3' direction, so the codon sequences have to occur in the same orientation. This ensures that they will be properly translated. The first base of a codon must be located at the 5'-most end of the codon. For instance, the following three bases code for the amino acid cysteine: CGU. Two codons code for this amino acid, 5'-UGU-3' and 5'-UGC-3'. 5'-UGC-3' matches the codon CGU if you read it backwards.

The second rule is that one nucleotide can be used per reading frame. In other words, one nucleotide can only be part of one codon. For example, the code AATT could be read only as AAT or ATT, but not at the same time.

The last rule deals with start and stop codons. Basically, once you begin reading a codon from a specific nucleotide, one must continue reading it by threes until the end. The most common start codon is AUG. UAA, UAG, or UGA are the stop codons. So, the implication of this rule is that any sequence can be read in three different ways, depending on which nucleotide is put first. The three different ways of reading can yield three different amino acids.

Mutations are errors in codons caused by changes in nucleotide bases. Depending on the type of mutation, the error can cause no change or devastating change in protein created. These changes can result in positive phenotypic changes in the living organism, but usually are deleterious. The first type of mutation discussed is the base substitution. This is when one base is substituted for another. There are three main base substitutions: silent mutations, missense mutations, and nonsense mutations. Silent mutations do not change the amino acid created, due to the degeneracy of the genetic code. For example, if UGU is changed to UGC, the corresponding amino acid will still be cysteine. A missense mutation results in a substitution that changes the actual amino acid that is created by the codon. A nonsense mutation is a substitution that actually transforms the codon into a stop codon. This is generally considered to be the worst sort of base substitution mutation because it can really mess up the formation of a protein.

The next category of mutations is the insertion and deletion mutations. The main mutation that correlates to the insertion or deletion of a nucleotide in a codon is the frameshift mutation. This mutation is very profound in its effects, due to it changing every codon in a genetic sequence. It messes up the three codon structure which constitutes code, thus altering the protein that is created by the code.

The last category of mutations are the suppressor mutations. Supressor mutations change the result of an entirely different mutation. There are two types of these: extragenic and intragenic mutations. Extragenic mutations occur outside the genetic code, but has an effect on the amino acid sequence that is translated from the genetic code. Basically, one mutation can negate another mutation, due to the affects of a tRNA mutation. An intragenic mutation comes from within the genetic code. An example of this would be if an insertion of a particular nucleotide was negated by a frameshift deletion of this nucleotide. This book does a thorough job of educating the reader in the basic of the genetic code. It not only defines what the genetic code is, what rules govern it, and what mutations can occur in it, but it discusses how the genetic code is an indicator of evolution. Since all life shares the same four nitrogenous bases, which make up the codons that code for the proteins that make all living bodies, evolution from common descent seems plausible.

Written by Chris Bielke
Independent Affiliate GeneWize LifeSciences
Direct: 928-261-8247

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Bio Terrorism, Pandemics and Virus Vectors - Why We Need to Get the Word Out

We seem to have a situation of denial in the US, perhaps it's because we live in such a clean environment with safe fresh water to drink, proper disposal services, and some of the best doctors and medicines in the world. We also have the best food supply chain. Yes, we live with abundance, but we must not let our guide down. There are dangers we must come to terms with, one of the most serious of course being disease, viruses, and the potential for pandemics or even bio-terrorism.

In fact, over the years I've recommended many books on the topic of bio-terrorism and natural pandemics, and what we can do about it. No, I am not meaning to scare anyone, more so, recommending that we educate the public to the reality of how serious things can get. Indeed, I've also recommended by Richard Preston such as Demons in the Freezer, Hot Zone, and Cobra event. Yes, I've also recommended classics on Influenza such as "The Great Influenza - Epic Story of the Deadliest Plague in History," written by John M. Barry.

Today, however, I'd like to recommend an extremely good book that is simple to read, 100% spot on with important information, and written in a way that anyone can comprehend. It's vital that our citizenry and policy makers get it. I recommend that you read this book, it's one I own and use as a reference, it is flat excellent:

"Pandemic" by Gary C. Ridenour, M.D., Jack Bacon and Company Publishers, Reno, NV, (2007), pages 101, ISBN: 0-930083-35-0

If you never read another book in your entire life on the issues of flu pandemics - READ THIS ONE! Dr. Ridenour was a Naval Doctor, and as you know they have some of the greatest doctors in the world in the US Navy, it's a necessity. What he has to say is the straight skinny, and this book is accurate and to the point without wasting the readers time. Although it is only 101 pages, it's filled with 100 pages of what you need to know. So, I hereby recommend this book for anyone and everyone who is interested in this topic, and if you are not; You should be!

Lance Winslow is the Founder of the Online Think Tank, a diverse group of achievers, experts, innovators, entrepreneurs, thinkers, futurists, academics, dreamers, leaders, and general all around brilliant minds. Lance Winslow hopes you've enjoyed today's discussion and topic. http://www.worldthinktank.net/ - Have an important subject to discuss, contact Lance Winslow.

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7 Daughters of Eve Book Review

The 7 Daughters of Eve is a non-fiction book written by human genetics profession Brian Sykes from the University of Oxford in England. Although a non-fiction book with its core being a nice commingling of the authors life story at the time when he was working to pioneer mitochondrial DNA research and testing, there are fictional aspects to it as well.

The first half of the book is interesting in that it tells the story of how the type of mitochondrial DNA testing came about and the stories from the authors personal life that helped move the research along. As an example, after a motor cycle accident left Sykes with a bad shoulder that needed to set before flying, he was able to take samples from a small island population in the Pacific Rim which was useful in showing how often (well, actually how not often) mitochondrial DNA mutates. It is these real stories that allow the average reader to enjoy the book without being overpowered by the science, which when summed up says that a mother passes mitochondrial DNA in its entirety on to all of her children.

Given that mitochondrial DNA is passed exactly from a mother to her children, it is possible to go back through history and find what Sykes called the 7 daughters of eve. These were 7 women who lead humans out of Africa and helped to populate the rest of the world according to the book.

Sykes attempts to give each of these women a name and tell the story of their life based on what we know about the area that they likely lived as well as archaeological evidence from the time period suggested by the number of mutations in the DNA sequence. While this part of the book was interesting, we see farming start in one story, dogs being domesticated in another, I found it more difficult to connect with then the actual story from Sykes life and the science which surrounded it.

It's a very interesting and quicker read then you might expect because Sykes is able to make the science sound both reasonable and accurate while explaining his own story. Each reader will likely favor a different part of the book, but it generally does not read anything like the long, boring and frustrating genetic textbooks that so many of us have been presented with in Biology class. I would say this is a definite read for anyone interested in Human Genetics.

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Anatomy 101 - The Human Body From a Kid's Point of View

The human body is something you'd think would be a natural object of understanding for humans, but not a huge number of people can boast knowledge of everything concerning these temples within which we live. Explaining it to children can prove difficult too - so what sort of things can you do to help your descriptions when those inevitable questions come along?

Children can be a lot smarter than we sometimes imagine. Many kids go through childhood experiencing various 'obsessions', where they find an interest and research it thoroughly; learning all there is to know about the subject. Take dinosaurs for example, which are always a popular interest. Most of us can probably think of at least one child who's been through the phase of reading up all about the giant lizards, collecting toys, watching the TV programmes, etc - if it's not us ourselves. This natural enthusiasm for learning is something that should be kept in mind - children, and humans in general, are inquisitive beings that thirst for knowledge. So it's important to latch onto this early and ensure kids get the most out of that early enthusiasm.

There are plenty of ways to encourage learning, such as books, DVDs, computer software and even plain old conversation. Children ask 'why?' a lot when growing up - and so do adults, albeit most of us do it quietly these days - and parents and teachers should capitalise on this inclination by telling them why, or how, or even what. What's more is that you'll probably get to enjoy it too.

A lot of the ways that kids learn stuff are usually fun. The books they read, the films they watch and even educational cartoons are designed to be amusing as well as instructive. This can make a welcome change from the slightly more stoic way of learning that grown-ups are used to, revisiting the basics in a bright and colourful manner that can prove entertaining as well. Opening up a book to help you teach your child about the human body can be a fun experience since children's literature is more about getting information across in an entertaining fashion rather than what comes across as quite inaccessible and stuffy by comparison in later years.

On top of all this, you spend time with the child, helping them to develop better social abilities whilst strengthening your own bond.

So what is there on the topic of the human body in particular? Depending on how old the child is, you could teach with anything ranging from rousing renditions of "head, shoulders, knees and toes" and the "hokey cokey" to question-and-answer sessions or reading books, watching television programmes and DVDs or using interactive CD ROMs or the internet.

There's a wealth of information out there concerning the human body, from your own personal knowledge to human body books - so don't feel restricted in what you can pass on as there's plenty of inspiration out there.

Adam Singleton writes for a digital marketing agency. This article has been commissioned by a client of said agency. This article is not designed to promote, but should be considered professional content.

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"The Genie in Your Genes" by Dawson Church: Book Review

The Genie in Your Genes

by Dawson Church, Ph.D.

Elite Books (2007)

ISBN 9781600700224

Reviewed by Paige Lovitt for Reader Views (4/07)

The first thought that came to mind after reading "The Genie in Your Genes," was the word "Inspiring." It seems like so much that I read today says that our genes determine everything. If this were true, it can be seen as a guarantee for cancer for people who have cancer in their families. It is refreshing to learn that in spite of my genes, I can still play a role in determining the outcome of my health.

"The Genie in Your Genes," discusses a variety of ways in which we can use our special link between mind and body to maintain our health. It reminds us of the importance of maintaining our emotional health so that we can stay physically healthy. If stress and negative thoughts can have an effect on our health, then it makes sense that positive, "...tools of our consciousness-including our beliefs, prayers, thoughts, intentions, and faith - often correlate much more strongly with our health, longevity, and happiness then our genes do."

I really like this idea, because it puts me in the driver's seat of determining my health. By using the techniques recommended from energy medicine and Energy Psychology, certain chronic health conditions, autoimmune conditions, and psychological traumas can be reversed. It is important to note that the author was very clear about certain health crises needing immediate medical attention. He does not recommend that you try to positively think your way out of appendicitis!

Having a healthy lifestyle by doing things like exercising, eating fresh fruits and vegetables, abstaining from smoking and excess alcohol are also factors that can prolong our lives. Church discusses, to great length, the idea of healing coming from outside the control of the gene. This is referred to as epigenetics. He says that, "...invisible factors of consciousness and intention - such as our beliefs, feelings, prayers, and attitudes - play an important role in the epigenetic control of genes."

"The Genie in Your Genes," is not a fast read. It is a book that covers a complex subject, yet it is written in a way that makes the topic clear to understand. It is well researched, well referenced and at the end is an appendix that gives you further information on how to find a practitioner and some exercises that you can do on your own. Church does not leave you hanging with the feeling that while this is a great topic, you will have no idea how to proceed. He tells you.

I think that this book should be read by practitioners of medicine, alternative therapists, science students and people who have psychological stress or chronic health problems believed to be caused by genetic defaults. "The Genie in Your Genes" will open your eyes and give you hope that you can control your life.

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As the Future Abstract Science of Nanotech - The Best Book You'll Ever Read on the Topic

As mankind unlocks all the secrets of our DNA, and learns how to use nanotechnology to genetically engineer humans the potential is unlimited. We will be able to enhance our muscles, brains, and participate in life extension technologies. Some of this may sound like science fiction, but that's exactly where nanotechnology in biotech is headed. Many futurists and scientists in these fields portray an interesting, exciting, and even scary future.

One of the best books I've ever read on this subject, and one which ranks up there with the top science fiction writers of past periods has allowed my mind to go beyond today, and into the future. The future of Nanotech and all the emerging sciences, which are now inter-related will fascinate you. If this topic interests you, I'd like to recommend a very good book, which you will enjoy and love. It's definitely a classic, although it is in a very esoteric niche. The name of the book is;

"Engines of Creation - What We Might Become," by Eric Drexler; Bantam books division Doubleday Dell, New York, NY, 1986, (298 pp.), ISBN: 0385199724.

This book is in my personal library, and it will stay there. Recently, I've been weeding out some of the old books that I no longer want, and I came across this book once again. As I was paging through it, I realized it was written in 1986, it occurred to me that many of the things that Drexler had predicted, have now come to be. Many of the Nanotech initiatives which are being funded and the research which is being done is making breakthroughs strides in neurology, biotech, pharmaceutical, medicine, material sciences, and so much more.

Sometimes, it pays to look back at the visionaries who helped put us on the path to our modern technology of today. I'm going to recommend that you buy this book, read it, and then go explore where this technology is going in the future, and how far it has already come. Please consider all this.

Lance Winslow is a retired Founder of a Nationwide Franchise Chain, and now runs the Online Think Tank. Lance Winslow believes in BioTech Science Initiatives.

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Stiff - the Curious Life of Human Cadavers

Do you know why cadavers look swollen after they rot? That is thanks to all those little flesh eating creatures we call maggots and bacteria. They too have secretion system. The only different is, when we die, our muscle stops working (d'oh!) thus OUR secretion system fail to dispose any garbage within our body. Voila! We become their toilet.

Have you seen Wizard of Oz? One of the characters "melts" when she dies. That's what happens to cadavers too. They simply melt after awhile.

Human is supposedly still alive even after the bodies are separated from their heads, they will stay alert and aware of their surroundings, and most probably still able to feel pain.

There's and old tradition in China that daughter in laws should show their respect to their mother in laws, by providing some of their own meat and serve it as soup for the mother in laws when they fall ill.

THOSE are some of the stuffs you'll learn from Stiff, The Curious Life of Human Cadaver.

It's been around for quite sometimes, so I was late reading it.

The writer's style is totally cool and funny. If you think you'll be reading a boring texbook-like book, you're absolutely wrong. I giggle while reading it. And for that, I earn a name of "Girl with weird taste of books."

It is written by Mary Roach a columnist in among others Vogue and GQ magazines.

Drop by to the excerpts page for some quick peek.

Totally recommended!! As long as you don't get nauseous easily.

Nita Prihanto
Freelance Writer

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Spontaneous Evolution - Learning From Our Cells

"You know, our cells just might be smarter than we are". Swami Beyondananda. "How can 50 trillion cells live in harmony and peace while a mere 7 billion people are on the verge of annihilating themselves?"

This is one of questions explored in the very interesting book I'm reading: 'Spontaneous Evolution' by Lipton and Bhaerman. They talk about the organizing principles responsible for the evolution of multi-cellular communities; their premise is that what works for the cell also works for the human, and what works for the human will also work for humanity.

The drive to higher efficiency and survivability led to the evolution of eukaryotic cells - communities of single prokaryotic cells. Over time, these evolved into close-knit cell colonies with individual cells performing essentially the same job.

As the population of these colonies exceeded a certain limit, it was no longer efficient for each cell to do the same job. Communal cells began to differentiate and specialize - delegating specific tasks to different cells.

Akin to craftsmen and their guilds, differentiated cells form tissues and organs whose products and services are required for the community's survival. For example, a cardiac muscle cell is a master of contraction - a process that is managed and driven by the many different organized guilds of cardiac cells that comprise the heart.

In exchange for their specialized cardio-vascular services, these cardiac cell guilds receive complementary services from other specialized cell guilds in the body - for example, nutrients from the digestive system, oxygen from the respiratory system, protection from the immune system, waste management through the excretory system and world news through the nervous system.

It's an important lesson: the success of these complex systems is a function of co-operation, not competition, among the cell guilds. The remarkable harmony displayed at the cellular level is the character that distinguishes successful cell communities from the current state of our human society. Each cell is an individual, yet they all behave and support one another.

A very interesting feature of the cell community is their equivalent of a monetary system. Adenosine Triphosphate (ATP) molecules are the currency of the cellular economy. Cells work to make ATP and expend ATP to do work.

Cells whose efforts are more vital get paid more ATP and may even be provided with cellular entourages that support their specialized functions. While cells are on different pay scales, every cell is provided with the basics of life: food, shelter, health care and protection.

Excess energy is stored in fact cells - the equivalent of regional and national banks. These reserves are available for the use of the entire community - at the behest of the body's government.

These reserves can be deployed anywhere within the system to build, upgrade, or repair the body's infrastructure. Cells, therefore, freely contribute to the efforts of the community without having to worry about where their next ATP paycheck will come from.

The human cellular organization has a R&D system that creates technology and manufactures biochemical equivalents of steel cables, plywood, circuitry and networks: an advanced environmental system for air and water purification; a superfast communication system right to the cell level; a criminal justice system that detains, rehabilitates and even assists in the suicide of destructive cells; full health care coverage and an immune system.

Will the Connected Age move towards true communities that collaborate will each other for the larger good? Will there be true interdependence as exemplified by our cellular communities? Do share your own thoughts and comments on this.

The New Constructs is an initiative to examine our beliefs and assumptions - about life and living - that we need to reinvent in order to create a more inclusive and sustainable world. It is an opportunity for each one of us to connect, collaborate and co-create the world that we will rebuild for posterity. Do post your own examples on the Wall.

Sudhakar Ram is Chairman and Co-Founder of IT solutions provider, Mastek. He believes that creating a sustainable world would require a shift in the "constructs" that drive our attitudes and actions.

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Understanding the Brain and Central Nervous System is Critical

Perhaps you have considered the complexity of the human brain and how incredible this biological marvel really is. If you consider all the interwoven systems that allow the human body to work to supply the brain with what it needs to function and control the enter biosystem then you have to throw up your hands and say; Wow.

Even though we do not fully understand the brain, we do realize many of its abilities and the basics behind it. Well, some of us do, however, many folks do not comprehend how it all works, which is a huge travesty considering that their brain is one of the most important parts of their body and without it, they would not even be able to realize that fact.

Perhaps you are as fascinated with the human mind and brain as I am? If so, I'd sure like to help you learn more, in fact, I'd like to recommend a very easy to read book that can explain it all to you much better than I. The name of the book is:

"The Brain and Central Nervous System; Reader's Digest Series: Your Body and Your Health" Edited by Neil Werthheimer; Reader's Digest Association Publishers, Pleasantville, New York; 2002

This book explains neurons, structure, memory, spinal cord, central nervous system and how to keep your brain healthy. The foods you should eat, the poisons you should stay away from and the importance of exercise on the brain. There is also a chapter on brain scanning, the brains electrical component, as well as disorders, diseases, tumors, stroke, therapy and drugs.

This is a fantastic book for all ages and you need to own it in your family's library. Understanding the Brain and Central Nervous System is critical because without your brain you cease to have meaningful existence, so, please consider all this.

"Lance Winslow" - Lance Winslow's Bio. If you have innovative thoughts and unique perspectives, come think with Lance; www.WorldThinkTank.net/.

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Packing for Mars, The Curious Science of Life in the Void

I was not really surprised when I came to know about Mary Roach's latest effort. Mary's books have always been based on extremely curious topics.

Mary Roach has yet again proved herself with packing for mars, she has found another unique topic to investigate and write about.

Her style of writing remains the same in this book, hilarious, direct and bizarre! She visits some topics like cadavers (actual dead people not crash test dummies) used for testing purposes and also some new titillating subjects, such as sex in space.

Mary Roach pushes the reader into the world of space flight and the difficulties of living in space, how do astronauts go to the toilet? do they really recycle their own urine and then precede to drink it? At the moment there are no baths and showers in space so how do they not stink of body odour all day long? Some other serious topics are discussed like what happens when you vomit in a spacesuit, and how do you survive if this happens to you when spacewalking?

She visits some interesting experiences that the original space pioneers had, for example how about the Apollo astronauts that could not stop farting...

For me packing for mars is her best book since "Stiff" which is one my all time favorites, i find it hard not to laugh out load when reading this particular book, which can sometimes be a little embarrassing.

Packing for mars is not just humorous but it also does a good job at explaining technical and scientific topics. Her style of writing is simple, she manages to get the main points across so that science people and non tech minded peeps can understand.

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Biology Book Review - Human Anatomy and Physiology

It's amazing that so few people understand the human body, especially considering that they live within it. It's perhaps the only thing you can truly say that you completely own. Many kids in school do not get an adequate education in biology, which is a travesty considering the full-importance of health care, longevity and living free from disease.

If you are one of the millions of Americans who have received less of an education on this subject than you think you need then may I please recommend an extremely valuable and easy to understand book for you?

"Human Anatomy and Physiology" by Kent M. Van de Graaff, R. Ward Rhees, Patricia Brady Wilhelm; 2001

This work boasts a crash course in biology, specifically human anatomy and physiology. The book is part of the Schaum's Easy Outline series and includes exercise questions, tips for mastering the physiology and human anatomy topic, and everything a student will need to pass a college course or final examine in the subject. The book is jam packed with information from the introduction forward.

Learn about the cell structure, tissue and cellular chemistry of the human body in the first few chapters and then the books goes on to explain the central nervous system and skeletal system, as well as the integration of the muscular components. The cardiovascular system and blood flow from the heart to the other organs. The respiratory system is completely described.

Learn how the body digests, gets rid of waste and metabolizes the food delivering the nutrients. Understand the body's use of water and electrolyte balance. Understand the miraculous reproductive system and how the life cycle continues.

"Lance Winslow" - Lance Winslow's Bio. If you have innovative thoughts and unique perspectives, come think with Lance; www.WorldThinkTank.net/.

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The Human Mind is Incredible - A Book Review for You

To master your mind, you are really going to need to understand the human brain - how it works, why it works, and how come it works so well. For this you are going to need to do quite a bit of research, because the human brain is rather complex, although its structure appears to be rather simplistic at first glance - but I assure you it's not at all, not in the least.

Okay so, I'd like to point you to a very good book to read on this topic, one I personally own, and have read myself. There is information on every page, and it is all well-footnoted. The name of the book is:

"The Universe Within - A New Science Explores the Human Mind" by Morton Hunt, Simon and Schuster, New York, NT, (1982), 415 pages, ISBN: 0-671-25258-5.

Although this sounds a lot like a new-age religious book, it really isn't - it's much more a science book, having to do with topics of neurology, brain structure, and how the human mind works - although indeed with a title like that it does sounds like it's a book for the new-age religion folks - it's not. And even though this was written back in 1982 without the modern understanding we have today of the human brain - the author reasoned his way through those unknown details for a very applicable summation, contemplating things we now know to be fact.

Indeed, he thus, deserves a lot of credit for that, I am impressed. The great thing about Morton Hunt is that he does not stick to a strict theory of either nature or nurture when it comes to the human mind, that is to say humans are not "pre-programmed" as he says that's an inaccurate statement. But at the same time, we are not exactly a product of our training, experience, and environment alone either. I do hope you will pick up a copy of this book, as you will be amazed how well-thought out his decades of research are. Please consider all this.

Lance Winslow is the Founder of the Online Think Tank, a diverse group of achievers, experts, innovators, entrepreneurs, thinkers, futurists, academics, dreamers, leaders, and general all around brilliant minds. Lance Winslow hopes you've enjoyed today's discussion and topic. http://www.worldthinktank.net/ - Have an important subject to discuss, contact Lance Winslow.

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The Selfish Gene - 30th Anniversary Edition

Richard Dawkins gracefully talks about the role genetics play in evolution, genes and more in "The Selfish Gene".

In the first few chapters the Selfish Gene is well explained. The mechanism and nature of DNA are the small units that make up our genes that pass through generations of life. The gene is called the 'Selfish Gene' in the title because genes are the genetic unit that deal with their survival only, whilst promoting their own transmission at the cost of its enemies.

Genes are the 'survival machines' because they use our bodies to duplicate, not the other way round. This simple concept is quite revolutionary.

Breaking it all down Richard discusses the tasks of genes, in particular the role they play in parenthood, families, relationships between sexes, altruism, selfishness and many other tasks.

The author also writes about a new kind of replicator - Memes which copy ideas, music, fashion, philosophies in our world.

The last chapter of the selfish gene deals with the theory of the extended phenotype which again is an interesting topic. Biologists have been left baffled as this concept means that chemical reactions (triggered by genes) in a body can affect the chemical reactions (leading to the desired behaviour) in other bodies. In other words, the theory explains that the behavior of a parasite or insect can cause change in the behavior of other animals.

The Selfish Gene is a strikingly beautiful book on evolution from a geneticists point of view. It is thoughtful and insightful whilst being a manageable read, the topics discussed are on the cutting edge of science, excellent.

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Do check out http://powerfulreviews.com/ thanks.

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The Truth Behind Stem Cell Research - The Right To Recover

Yvonne Perry is a fellow writer and friend and after having read her book I am forwarding this information to all that I know in the hopes that they read and understand that we here in the United States are being misled as to what researchers want to use for stem cells that are not human embryos as has been misstated over and over by groups that do not want to educate themselves.

I have diabetes, without this research I will die prematurely no matter what steps I can take now. My mother died at age 67, my brothers have it and millions of others in this country need a cure, NOW! Yvonne explains that the clump of cells called blastocysts are not living human entities. If you have family, friends, or loved ones that have life threatening diseases you need to read how close we are to curing these problems if our government would stop being pressured by special interest groups that have it all wrong. There is a forward by Rev. Dan Bloodworth a strong supporter of Yvonne's, with a Biblical Perspective on stem cell research.
Anything you can or are willing to do to help people understand the importance of federal funding for all types of stem cell research is much appreciated--especially by those who currently suffer with an illness or condition that might be helped by the derived technology and treatments.

I have read Yvonne's book "Right to Recover" and the following is my comment on this courageous work.

Yvonne Perry has taken a courageous stand by tackling and dissecting these issues without prejudicial preconceived emotion. The biggest obstacle to this research is the inclusion of religious aspects in the determination that a blastocyst or a pile of benign cells constitutes human life, a grave error of thought. After all, is there a ceremony or last rites given to these cells? They are not inside a woman's uterus, they have not been given DNA to substantiate they are human and can take the form of whatever host they are merged into. I am a diabetic. I will die along with millions of others prematurely. With one injection of stem cells, in the near future my pancreas could grow back and I would be able to stop shooting insulin and going into insulin shock wearing my organs down and live a normal life. All I need is the ability of these dedicated researchers to be allowed to use funding to further the research to make it all happen for millions of us. Read the book before you go off about the "point that life begins" and begin to understand how much damage is being done because of a lack of understanding of that very question.

Nick Oliva (O-lee-va?) has been a musician, composer, photographer, an audio engineer, an Entertainment Director and Technical Director for over twenty-five years and is a successful self-made money manager. Website: View my blog and buy my latest book at http://www.onlymomentsbook.com/

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Excitotoxins - The Taste That Kills - (A Review of Chapters 1 and 2)

Dr. Russell L. Blaylock M.D. has written a compelling book detailing the results of numerous studies of the effects of what he calls "excitotoxins" in the brain. "Excitotoxins," such as glutamate (Monosodium Glutamate, commonly called MSG) and Aspartate (such as the artificial sweetener, NutraSweet) are among the over seventy types of special amino acids present in the brain that are known to be largely present in most packaged processed foods available today.

Before precisely defining why they are named "excitotoxins," In Excitotoxins: The Taste That Kills, (Health Press, 1997) Dr. Blaylock leads the reader on a crash course of the brain in chapter 1. Most of this chapter can truthfully be skipped since the descriptions are very detailed and repeated again in subsequent chapters. However, with a brief overview of the parts of the brain (The Frontal Lobes, The Parietal Lobes, Occipital Lobes, Temporal Lobes, The brains interior paired nuclei, Brain Stem, Pituitary Gland and Hypothalamus) and the neuron composition (Dendrite, Cell Body, Axon and Terminal Endings) we gain a great appreciation for the complexity and yet delicate operating balances within the human brain.

In chapter 1 Dr. Blaylock does inform us that the brain consumes 20% of the body's required oxygen and 25% of the body's required glucose for normal operations. Oddly enough, this is the one piece of information we need to remember for Chapter 3. The problem is that this tremendous need for oxygen and glucose circulating in the blood makes the brain vulnerable to ingested to toxins. In a section describing the "blood/brain barrier" we learn that this barrier the first line of defense the brain has against blood borne toxins and may actually leak under certain circumstances which presents another problem with ingesting these specific amino acids.

In chapter 2 we receive a review of Amino Acids. This is important since the "excitotoxins" are actually Amino Acids that are normally present in the brain. Dr. Blaylock gives a brief overview of amino acids and how they are the building blocks used to create proteins in a process called anabolism. Interestingly noted is collagen (the largest protein in the body) which contains 1500 amino acids.

Finally we are given a glimpse of what the potential problem is as Dr. Blaylock explains another function of amino acids. Apparently, in addition to being used to construct protein, some amino acids act as neurotransmitters. Glutamate, Aspartate and glycine are examples of these types of amino acids. Dr. Blaylock describes in detail the neurotransmitter firing process. He also points out that neuroscientists have discovered that glutamate is one of the most common neurotransmitters in the brain. Many areas of the brain contain extensive glutamate type neurons. Activation of cortical glutamate neurons in turn activate other neurons within the nuclei located deep within the brain.

These connections are important when examining the effects of excitatory amino acids (such as MSG) and the origins of neurological disease which are revealed in later chapters.

The author is an international airline pilot and a healthy living enthusiast. For the latest information try: http://www.godynamaxx.com/
For a free weight loss program try: http://www.naturallyslimshape.com/
Copyright © 2010 Walt Miller. This article may be freely distributed if this resource box stays attached.

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Excitotoxins - The Taste That Kills - (A Review of Chapter 3, How MSG Kills Brain Cells)

According to the author, Dr. Blaylock, "Excitotoxins" are special amino acids, such as glutamate and aspartate (which are commonly found in MSG and Nutrasweet). These "Excitotoxins" are added to processed food to enhance the taste. Normally they act as neurotransmitters in the brain and spinal cord. However, when these common food additives are consumed (by eating certain processed foods) excessive amounts can develop which kill certain neurons in the brain by causing them to fire repeatedly (and needlessly) until they die.

How do they do this? Dr. Blaylock explains that there are two problems. First, we must understand that glutamate is normally in the brain and use to signal a neuron when it is time to fire. When it is done there is a cellular mechanism which transfers excess glutamate back into the surrounding glial cells. The glial cells encase the neurons in the brain and supply them with energy (in the form of ATP). The amount of energy required to do this is very high. This points to the first problem which is that in a hypoglycemic (low blood sugar) condition there is not enough ATP present to transfer the glutamate. In the constant presence of glutamate the neurons fire repeatedly until they die.

Specifically, as a part of the signal process, glutamate and aspartate act as a sort of key to unlock calcium channels into the neuron which chemically initiate the neurons to fire (their normal task). The cellular calcium pump turns on which remove the calcium. This is the second problem. The calcium pump requires a tremendous amount of energy also. In a hypoglycemic condition these calcium pumps fail to operate allowing the neurons to fire repeatedly until they die.

The solution may seem to be to eat more so that there is never a hypoglycemic state. This may seem possible, but the reality is that (as Dr. Blaylock points out) the FDA has allowed the food industry to include these "excitotoxins" in so many hidden forms that the consumer may not be aware that they are actually eating the same substances that they usually try to avoid (MSG.) This massive consumption of glutamates and aspartates may be impossible to overcome with normal brain processes. A diet rich in natural unprocessed foods is very important.

The only true solution is to avoid consuming "excitotoxins." Dr. Blaylock points out in Appendix 1 other common food additives which have hidden sources of MSG. These include: Hydrolyzed Vegetable Protein, Hydrolyzed Plant Protein, Hydrolyzed Protein, Sodium Caseinate, Calcium Caseinate, Yeast Extract, Textured Protein, Autolyzed Yeast and Hydrolyzed Oat Flour. Some food additives may have MSG include: Malt Extract, Malt Flavoring, Bouillon, Broth, Stock, Flavoring, Natural Flavoring, Natural Beef or Chicken Flavorings and seasoning.

The author is an international airline pilot and a healthy living enthusiast. For the latest information try: http://www.godynamaxx.com/
For a free weight loss program try: http://www.naturallyslimshape.com/
Copyright © 2010 Walt Miller. This article may be freely distributed if this resource box stays attached.

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Beyond Difference: A Biologists Perspective by Anne Fausto-Sterling

In her 1997 Journal of Social Issues article, Beyond Difference: A Biologists Perspective, evolutionary biologist Anne Fausto-Sterling argues against the controversial issue of whether or not evolutionary psychology explains human sex differences.

Fausto-Sterling's orientation to social change is dichotomous. While she is a "defender" of the current scientific paradigm, which heavily relies on the scientific method, she also seeks to "reform" the ideological stance taken by many evolutionary psychologists, and to do so at the level of the scientific community. In Fausto-Sterling's article, she strives to foster communication and collaboration with her peers in the emerging field of evolutionary psychology, attempting to share the wisdom she has gleaned from her much more established field of evolutionary biology.

The "popular media's publicity blitz" was Fausto-Sterling's occasion to advocate for good science in response to several mainstream articles that had attempted to smear the credible reputation of biologists by presenting evolutionary psychologists latest theories as facts.

Fausto-Sterling's core values are to uphold the current framework surrounding the concept of credible scientific research. Her beliefs, stated and restated, are that the entire scientific community should adhere to the existing scientific paradigm, including the scientific method, and "solid theory and detailed empirical information".

Fausto-Sterling believes that evolutionary psychologists need to create more specific hypotheses and need more data to back up those hypotheses. She believes that researchers of all sorts should conform to a standard measure of scientific hypothesis that can be answered empirically rather than merely assuming vague answers, as is being done by some in the arena of evolutionary psychology. To the social scientists studying gender inequity and skewing their incomplete theories to support their own cases, she warns them that a credible scientist cannot pick merely one level of analysis to answer a question; one needs to consider many different possibilities, including development, evolution, and environment.

She gives the example of answering the question: why do frogs jump? One can't just say that frogs jump because they are part of an environment and they are jumping to escape from a predator. Fausto-Sterling explains that one must deepen ones levels of analysis and consider different possibilities of why frogs jump, for instance because of twitching muscles, or an even deeper analysis, that frogs jump because nerve impulses cause proteins to contract.

Fausto-Sterling has very valid points that should be considered by all in the scientific community in order that they are on the same page on a worldwide level. These are the means by which science advances.

Fausto-Sterling offers sound advice and methodological suggestions as well as two research-based models that are available to assist this new breed of social scientist. She strongly believes in the value of collaboration amongst the scientific community and sees biologists as potential assets to social scientists. Because collaboration increases information Fausto-Sterling suggests that we, "engage in current discussions using the best available knowledge and the most highly detailed hypotheses available", and by these means, together, social scientists, evolutionists, and behavioral biologists could develop "scientifically sound theories about the evolution of human behavioral patterns and their relationship to contemporary behavior".

Fausto-Sterling also recommends that social scientists utilize the plethora of already existing data, for example archaeological and geographical records, or molecular evidence. She also suggests making sure they are able to generalize their correlations to humans when drawing inferences from animal studies, as "elegant" as they may be.

The research-based model that Fausto-Sterling identifies and suggests for use in making specific hypotheses regarding human evolution is called "Latour and Strum's Nine Questions" and is used to evaluate theory quality. She also cites four standard questions used by evolutionary biologists that "have been suggested as essential to the acceptance of conjectures about the evolution of human reproductive behaviors".

Fausto-Sterling's argument contributes much to the understanding of the problem at hand. She bends over backwards to make sure that her writing is clear and her points are understood. She creatively uses hypothetical examples, such as the jumping frogs and the mice to bats to demonstrate her points. She even criticizes her own hypotheses, along with those of some evolutionary psychologists, to show that while both of their theories are "plausible", they both also "lack essential information". She also offers a great deal of alternative hypotheses to Buss's hypothesis.

Fausto-Sterling is not just tearing the competition apart; rather she humbly portrays herself and her peers in the scientific community as having knowledge and wisdom to share with their uprising peers and this article seems to be an attempt to reach out to them. She sees the potential that these social scientists have to contribute, and attempts to persuade them to stop manipulating their knowledge of biology to fit their own ideological social beliefs, and misrepresenting other sciences in doing so, when we could all benefit from what they have to offer if they use science properly, "thick, complex, multivariate descriptions of human behavior".

Copyright 2006-Elle Housman is a freelance writer and graphic designer based in Colorado. Her publications can be found in Toward Freedom Magazine, The Colorado Daily's monthly Women's Magazine, Ujama News and on the website of The Black Biomedical Research Movement. Visit her website at [http://PositiveScribes.com/]

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Man and His Planet: An Unauthorized History

In his book, 'Man and his Planet: An Unauthorized History,' James E. Strickling Jr. presents an analysis of a topic that has been debated by scholars, scientists, and religious leaders for generations - Creation versus Evolution. In his book, he examines both sides and provides an argument that refutes both their conclusions. His argument is based on the following specific line of reasoning: "Natural selection is Science's equivalent to religious fundamentalism and Creationist's interpretation of the origin of life as the 'Great Mistake.'" The overall objective of 'Man and his Planet' is to show that the creationists' "fixity of species" and the evolutionists' "very orderly gradual evolution of life on earth" are in error, and it is disadvantageous for them not to listen to opposing views as there is another potential alternative to how life emerged and evolved.

Strickling contends that "the creationist system of belief offers little value to our understanding and enlightenment." He also challenges the evolutionary concept of speciation by natural selection by arguing: "By surviving, it produces a circle; the surviving species survive because they are the fittest, and they are adjudged to be the fittest because they survive. Explains nothing - survived has survived. There are no facts to support speciation by natural selection." Instead, Strickling argues that natural selection allows a species to maintain its identity by means of natural selection.

Strickling provides an account of the Standard Geological Column Geological Record where the picture presented is a very orderly gradual evolution of life on earth. He details an assessment of Uniformitarianism vs. Catastrophism and argues that speciation is accelerated in times of catastrophe such as the ends of the Paleozoic and Mesozoic periods that were marked by extinction on a global scale. He contends Uniformitarianism does not satisfactorily explain evolution by natural selection.

Strickling provides a possible alternative that takes into account ancient documents that reveal natural electrical phenomena. The idea is that matter emerged from energy. That is, a burst of energy erupted and subsequently transformed to matter. This theory is comparable to the scientific 'Big Bang Theory' as well as to Deepak Chopra's spiritual system of beliefs pertaining to energy which asserts that there is an elaborate connection between quantum physics and consciousness. According to Chopra, "We are each a localized field of energy and information with cybernetic feedback loops interacting within a non-local field of energy and information."

'Man and his Planet: An Unauthorized History,' provides an intriguing look into the origins of life with a compelling critique of established religious and scientific explanations. I found myself appreciating the arguments presented while agreeing with some and disagreeing with others, such as Man's inability to impact the global climate. 'Man and his Planet: An Unauthorized History' is highly recommended as a book well worth debate and readers will gain insight into another way of looking at how the earth evolved without feeling like their own beliefs are being judged or ridiculed.

Tracy Roberts, Write Field Services

Purchase: Amazon.com

Tracy Roberts is a reviewer for Write Field Services

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