Modeling

It is an excellent hands-on source for beginners and experienced data modeling professionals.

The book is based on actual experience as opposed to the theoretical treatment modeling receives in many books.

Steve has shared a lot of practical REAL LIFE checklists which help in extracting domain ... very useful !!!

This is a wonderful book. I just purchased it on a whim. When I got it I found that the step-by-step approach and the various templates were invaluable in helping me plan my data-modeling project and rallying others around the plan of action.

Much recommended to anyone doing data-modeling.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

It contains many many exiting problems and stimulate to go through the world of art of biology and mathematics. This book can guide the way where to go when you lost in the world of biomathematics, specifically molecular modeling. It looks like a well-organized dictionary with analysis. So it is good for a beginner and also deep-thinker in computational biology field.

Aaron Marcus' book was so complete with everything I need to know about commercial modeling. As an amateur actor, I didn't know where to begin and now I don't have that "lost" feeling anymore. It's a very helpful book that makes me feel like my dreams are just around the corner!

We have used this book over and over again in our daughter's quest to becoming a commercial model. It is packed full of fantastic information on the TRUE ins and out of what it takes to be successful in the business. The photos are a great help and Aaron Marcus gives you advice no one else does. We just came back from LA and the IMTA competition with several callbacks for our daughter! We couldn't have done it without the help of this book!

Aaron Marcus's 'How to Become a Successful Commercial Model' is an outstanding guide through each step of beginning a modeling career. Even if you have already worked in the market, this 19 year veteran of modeling and acting provides ideas and techniques that could give any career a boost. If you are looking for a practical, realistic approach of how to get from here to there in the world of modeling, Mr. Marcus's book is a worthy investment.

This book is really well written - the author's humorous style is not too verbose and technical, but not patronising either! The methodologies for facial animation that the author presents in this book are really quite different from other practical guides to facial animation that I have seen. His methods are really effective (with some great practical exercises), and they've certainly given a "facelift" to the character that I am currently constructing. Although the book tends to be geared towards Maya users, the way that the author explains the rationale behind the paths he takes in the tutorials gives the student the ability to apply these instructions in their software of choice. Of course, if you ARE a Maya user, there's some really helpful instructions for facial modelling and for making some way-cool interfaces to animate your facial setup. I am SO glad I bought this book - it is just about welded to my hands at the moment!

This book is truly brilliant. From the opening chapter and its unique approach to lip sync that completely breaks away from the use of standard phonemes, through detailed instructions on modeling and rigging for correct facial deformations, and fresh approaches to facial animation interfaces, the book alternates between the exposition of idea with real world examples in a thoughtful and delightful style. A great read, and a great CD to boot, with tons of audio clips to practice with, and entertaining and inspiring animations too.

This book is like no other, and you really need to buy it right here, right now. If you're the type that just has to pick it up in a bookstore and hold it in your hands and take a look at it first, then fine, do so. But don't just browse through it, sit down and read the entire first chapter. I'll bet you wind up taking it directly to the cashier and buying it on the spot, at full price. And wouldn't that be foolish!

If you are a beginner or a profesional 3d artist wanting to learn more about facial animation then this book is your bible! Jason Osipa clearly describes and explains all sorts of great tips and techniques to create very life like animation. A must have for all 3d buffs!

I am a researh asistant in university and when I got this book it has been very usefull for my master thesis. It gives expert instruction and practical advice for floodplain modelers and managersfloodplain management and u can easily understand the terms and can use the HEC-RAS. I recommmend all academicians and civil engineers.

This book is great! If you dropped it on your toes you would break them, however as a biologist it has made floodplain hydrology far more acessible. In these days of personel rationisation, being able to do anything and talk to everyone is a definate plus. I find Haestad's books very worth while.

I am a civil engineer, working on a variety of water/wastewater related projects. One of the most complicated projects/problems is related to understanding, defining and solving problems related to hydraulics and hydrology of rivers. Here is a book that can really help you understand basics of flow hydraulics. An easy read, simplified problems, and step by step guidance make it MUST HAVE for an enginner. In conjuction with HAC-RAS software this book is a great tool for wrestling with any problem that can be thrown at you. I personally use a lot and am more than pleased with it.

Advanced Water Distribution Modeling and Management is not only a complete and current reference for professionals involved in water distribution systems but also an essential textbook for undergraduate and graduate courses. In fact, what makes this book different is that it contains from basic hydraulic concepts up to the most recent researches and experiences in a comprehensive language.

This new book recently published by Haestad Methods is a very comprehensive text book and 'how to' book for anyone working with water systems. Each chapter is clearly written with both the theory and practical application for water distribution modeling. There are practical exercises at the end of each chapter. For the water system engineer and profession, the exams may be sent to Haestad for grading and ultimately continuing education credits. While the book is written for engineers, anyone who works with water systems on a daily basis will be able to learn more about how water systems respond to their daily demands.
The book also comes with a CD with a working model of its WaterCAD program. This working model includes all of the features of the commercial product, including water lines, pumps, ground storage tanks, elevated tanks, water wells, pressure reducing valves, line valves and much more. The WaterCAD program included with the text book is limited to a few water lines, but enough to see how the program works and to solve real system problems.

Understand a computer model and you gain knowledge about the physical process behind it as well. This is why Advanced Water Distribution Modeling and Management makes an extremely usefull book even more valuable. Not only does AWDMM contain a vast wealth of knowledge about water networks, their operation and the mathematics behind it, but it also stays true to the sparkling personality of the precursor book, Water Distribution Modeling. The choise of new topics added is excellent: demand management using geographical data, water quality measurement, integration of modeling and SCADA systems, water system security, transients in water networks and more - all treated in Haestad's combination of engineering clarity and great style. I use it and recommend it both for use in both teaching an engineering.

I found this book by accident looking for some statistics help for a benchmarking project. It turned out to be worth its weight in gold as it is very clear, comphrehensive, and readable.

He outlines and elaborates a methodical, straightforward approach to performance analysis and provides excellent sections on what to do, not do, and how to validate or refute the analyses of others.

Extensive examples with solutions and enough equations to let you easily implement the analysis portions in code (or a spreadsheet if need be).

If you are doing any kind of performance analysis, whether it is for computer systems or not, you should get a copy.

The only reason I didnt give it 5 stars is a very small number of the example answers have typos or rounding errors. Be sure to get the errata list from the website.

This book is a classic in its field. It covers performance analysis for computers, but is very easily extended to any area of performance analysis. It covers some theory, but mainly tips and "stories around the campfire" from those with a great deal of experience in the area. And that's actually more valuable than pure academic theory. The math is not too bad. One great feature is that you can focus on only those areas that you are concerned about and you can go as in-depth as you want. It's also true that it will never become obsolete (although some examples might be).

I'm a performance analyst. I couldn't do my job properly without this book. It really is that simple.

I initially started looking at the study of Algorithms with Sedgewick's "Data Structures and Algorithms with C++", and decided to buy this book because Sedgewick's approach seemed limiting. I have only had a day or two to spend with the Lafore, but I am inclined to express appreciation for the effectiveness of his pedalogical approach. He indicates early on that he wishes, in his presentation, to separate the subject matter from complexities of C++, and also from software design theory and a dense mathmatical treatment, so the focus can remain on data structs and algorithms without unnessary complication. In early chapters, he is able to dispense with "Big O" notation in just a handful of pages, in a way that is quite useful and would be understandable to a high school student, I think.

I found myself sailing through the chapters in the book very pleasurably and with ease of understanding of the different topics that I think will be useful to me.

Sedgewick's book, by comparison, contains some subtle material not covered in Lafore (quite a lot), and the implementation of the coding better demonstrates the most efficient possible approach (C++ as the underlying programming language, of course, facilitates this). However, the style of the code is comparatively bad, and requires much longer periods of scutinization and repeated efforts to reach a good level of comprehension. Additionally, the style of explication throughout the text is of the bravura, academic type, as much intended to impress a peer group of academics as to serve a genuinely instructive purpose. Additionally, there constant references to-and-fro throughout the text (comprising an astonishing bulk of it, as a matter of fact), and one wonders why things could not be better organized. It is very much of a "plum pudding", in my opinion, very overcomplicated. You will need a lot of patience and a high threshold against irritation to read it. All in all, Sedgewick is a lot better than the famous and infamously incomprehensible Knuth (with whom he learned his licks), but that is not saying a great deal. There are some merits, I think, to teaching DS & algorithms in C++, as this language allows for a very detailed examination of the spinning and whirring gears of machine as it cranks through the code. The requisite C++ level in the Sedgewick is not trivial, but not too steep either ("Practical C++", published by Que, would serve very well as a fairly quick and dirty introduction to C++, completely adequate to get through Sedewick's text), and would come in handy especially for UNIX system-type programing and scientific computing. On the other hand, the Java approach in the Lafore is much more robust, and allows a higher-level tour of the terrain. (Despite his protestations to the contrary, Lafore teaches software engineering in an exemplary manner with his use of the Java OOP paradigm).

One self-instuctive approach would be to start with the Lafore, and use this as the text with which to apply the real "elbow grease" of learning the different topics in this area, and then have a read-through of the Sedgewick to see what might be useful there. If you have an extremely masochistic streak and want then to devote the rest of your life to the study and teaching of algorithms, proceed onward to the Knuth, (but get a ph.D in mathmatics beforehand ;-)

Just about every Computer Science program requires a course called "Data Structures and Algorithms". In order to become a programmer you must understand the information provided in this course. This book was written as a textbook for a "Data Structures and Algorithms" course and all the expected topics are covered; arrays, queues, stacks, linked lists, trees, hash tables, heaps, sorting, recursion, and searching. Whether you are a teacher looking for a text, a student who wants a better text than the required one, or just someone who wants to learn more about programming, this book is a very good choice. By using Java, all the complications of C++ are eliminated and the author's crystal clear explanations come shining through. And the author's explanations and examples are excellent. For example, the chapter on link lists explains what a linked list is, what problems it is supposed to solve and what problems it fails to solve, and then shows how to implement your own link list. The author provides a set of applets to visually illustrate the topics covered in the book. There are questions at the end of each chapter and answers are provided. This book is not going to explain the Collection classes or help you learn the API. What this book will do is help you get a deeper understanding of what data structures are, how they work, and what performance sacrifices must be made in order to achieve better overall performance in your programs.

I bought this book for my Data Structures class at NCSU and it was perfect. There aren't a lot of "real world" examples; its just the straight forward way of showing you want the data structures are and how to code them efficiently. There's also a lot of extra theory in the sorting chapters that I haven't found in other data structure books.

The intended audience appears to be students, consultants and municipalities. It is a handy text useful as a review of hydraulic principles and is presented like a text book on hydraulic modeling. It seems particularly well suited for individuals just learning how to model water distribution systems.

Many books written on the subject of computer modeling are written in reference to address specific issues or are prepared by or for the acedamia community and presented in a complex manner. This book covers a wide range of subjects that water distribution modelers typically face in day to day practice. It is written from an engineering perspective, however the concepts are presented in a simplified manner that non-engineering personnel can understand.

I found the simplified presentation of the subject matter to be somewhat sophmoric, which limits the use of the text to fairly simple concepts. However, the range of subjects covered is broad and the concepts presented are accurate. I use the book to get ideas on how to approach modeling different hydraulic elements in municipal water systems.

All in all this is a good reference book to have on hand. I recommend it.

This is one of the best sources of information for water modelers. Chapters are well organized and the information is comprehensive and focuses on the practical aspects of water model development.

Water Distribution Modeling shows why Drs. Walski, Chase, and Savic are considered among the foremost experts in water distribution modeling. The book provides essential information for modelers at all levels of expertise - students, beginners, as well as experienced engineers. Water Distribution Modeling can serve as a college-level textbook or as a bookshelf reference manual.

Walski, Chase and Savic have authored a complete guide to water distribution modeling. All aspects of model development are covered, from basic modeling and hydraulic concepts to more complex issues such as extended period simulations and water quality. The presentation is focused, direct, and understandable. The organization of the book allows a reader to quickly locate specific information without searching through pages of unrelated materials. Basic modeling tasks are explained without "talking down" to the reader. Advanced concepts are described in a clear, common-sense manner that even a first-time modeler can easily understand.

Water Distribution Modeling is a hydraulics textbook, but differs from other hydraulics books in that it is oriented to modeling. The explanations of building and calibrating models recognize actual mapping limitations, field data availability, and monitoring equipment capabilities. The procedures provided therefore apply to the "real world." This same real-world approach is used in the presentation of typical modeling analyses and design applications.

In summary, Water Distribution Modeling is a complete reference for water distribution modelers. It is well worth a thorough review.

If I could buy only five books to help me run my network, Windows Nt Tcp/Ip Network Administration would be near the top of that list. (Another would be Minasi's Mastering NT Server 4.) The advice is detailed and practical, the writing is down-to-earth, and it's obvious that the authors are deeply familiar with the protocols and applications they are writing about. I start with this book first when I have a TCP-IP question--even before TechNet, because Hunt and Thompson give you the real skinny, not the "company" answer. Also--and this is rare for technical titles--this book is carefully-edited and a pleasure to read.

I've been a UNIX admin for about ten years. Hunt's crab book has pretty much lived on my desk since it came out. I've got NT boxes sneaking in the back door now and needed to learn the NT TCP environment fast. This book gave me what I needed. It's going to end up living on my desk too.

It's clear and simple. Very good and usefull to understand the network computer.