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Showing posts with label Science. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Science. Show all posts

Thursday, June 4, 2009

The Last Olympian


Product Description
All year the half-bloods have been preparing for battle against the Titans, knowing the odds of victory are grim. Kronos's army is stronger than ever, and with every god and half-blood he recruits, the evil Titan's power only grows. While the Olympians struggle to contain the rampaging monster Typhon, Kronos begins his advance on New York City, where Mount Olympus stands virtually unguarded. Now it's up to Percy Jackson and an army of young demigods to stop the Lord of Time.

In this momentous final book in the New York Times best-selling Percy Jackson and the Olympians series, the long-awaited prophecy surrounding Percy's sixteenth birthday unfolds. And as the battle for Western civilization rages on the streets of Manhattan, Percy faces a terrifying suspicion that he may be fighting against his own fate.

About the Author
Rick Riordan is the author of the first three books in the New York Times best-selling Percy Jackson and the Olympians series: The Lightning Thief, The Sea of Monsters, and The Titan s Curse. His previous novels for adults include the hugely popular Tres Navarre series, winner of the top three awards in the mystery genre. He lives in San Antonio, Texas, with his wife and two sons.

New Moon


From School Library Journal
Grade 9 Up–Recovered from the vampire attack that hospitalized her in the conclusion of Twilight (Little, Brown, 2005), Bella celebrates her birthday with her boyfriend Edward and his family, a unique clan of vampires that has sworn off human blood. But the celebration abruptly ends when the teen accidentally cuts her arm on broken glass. The sight and smell of her blood trickling away forces the Cullen family to retreat lest they be tempted to make a meal of her. After all is mended, Edward, realizing the danger that he and his family create for Bella, sees no option for her safety but to leave. Mourning his departure, she slips into a downward spiral of depression that penetrates and lingers over her every step. Vampire fans will appreciate the subsequently dour mood that permeates the novel, and it's not until Bella befriends Jacob, a sophomore from her school with a penchant for motorcycles, that both the pace and her disposition begin to take off. Their adventures are wild, dare-devilish, and teeter on the brink of romance, but memories of Edward pervade Bella's emotions, and soon their fun quickly morphs into danger, especially when she uncovers the true identities of Jacob and his pack of friends. Less streamlined than Twilight yet just as exciting, New Moon will more than feed the bloodthirsty hankerings of fans of the first volume and leave them breathless for the third.–Hillias J. Martin, New York Public Library
Copyright © Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved. --This text refers to the Hardcover edition.

From Booklist
Gr. 8-11. "Which is tempting you more, my blood or my body?" Things are heating up between Bella Swan and her vampire boyfriend, Edward Cullen, in this sequel to the immensely popular Twilight (2005). Then Bella is injured at her birthday party, and the Cullens' reaction to her blood sends Edward's family packing. Bella is inconsolable until she discovers that reckless behavior allows her to hear Edward's warning voice in her head. To keep him close, she decides to live as dangerously as possible, acquiring two motorcycles and developing a close friendship with Jacob, who helps her rebuild them. Romantics will miss Edward's presence, but the suspense created by a pack of werewolves bent on protecting Bella from a vindictive vampire will keep them occupied until the lovers can be reunited. The writing is a bit melodramatic, but readers won't care. Bella's dismay at being ordinary (after all, she's only human) will strike a chord even among girls who have no desire to be immortal, and like the vampires who watch Bella bleed with "fevered eyes," teens will relish this new adventure and hunger for more. Cindy Dobrez
Copyright © American Library Association. All rights reserved --This text refers to the Hardcover edition.

Review
All is not well between demon-magnet Bella and Edward Cullen, her vampire Romeo. An innocent papercut at Edward's house puts Bella in grave danger when various members of the Cullen family can barely resist their hunger at the smell of blood. The Cullens promptly leave town, afraid of endangering Edward's beloved, and Bella sinks into an overwhelming depression. Months later, she finally emerges from her funk to rebuild her life, focusing on her friendship with besotted teen Jacob from the reservation. Bella's unhealthy enthrallment to Edward leads her into dangerous and self-destructive behavior despite her new friends, and supernatural complications are bound to reappear. Bella's being hunted by an evil vampire, and Jacob's adolescent male rage turns out to be incipient lycanthropy: It seems many Quileute Indians become werewolves in the presence of vampires, their natural enemies. Psychic miscommunications and angst-ridden dramatic gestures lead to an exciting page-turner of a conclusion drenched in the best of Gothic romantic excess. Despite Bella's flat and obsessive personality, this tale of tortured demon lovers entices. (Fantasy. 13-16) (Kirkus Reviews) --This text refers to the Hardcover edition.

Review
Praise for New Moon:
"Teens will relish this new adventure and hunger for more."--Booklist

"New Moon piles on the suspense and romance." - USA Today

"Vampire afficionados will voraciously consume this mighty tome in one sitting, then flip back and read it once more. It maintains a brisk pace and near-genius balance of breathtaking romance and action."--VOYA

"New Moon will more than feed the bloodthirsty hankerings of fans of the first volume and leave them breathless for the third."--School Library Journal

"An exciting page turner...This tale of tortured demon lovers entices."--Kirkus --This text refers to the Hardcover edition.

Product Description
Legions of readers entranced by Twilight are hungry for more and they won't be disappointed. In New Moon, Stephenie Meyer delivers another irresistible combination of romance and suspense with a supernatural twist. The "star-crossed" lovers theme continues as Bella and Edward find themselves facing new obstacles, including a devastating separation, the mysterious appearance of dangerous wolves roaming the forest in Forks, a terrifying threat of revenge from a female vampire and a deliciously sinister encounter with Italy's reigning royal family of vampires, the Volturi. Passionate, riveting, and full of surprising twists and turns, this vampire love saga is well on its way to literary immortality.

About the Author
Stephenie Meyer graduated from Brigham Young University with a degree in English Literature, and she lives with her husband and three young sons in Arizona. Stephenie is the author of Twilight, New Moon and Eclipse.

From AudioFile
Readers will thrill to Ilyana Kadushin's elegant narration of NEW MOON, sequel to TWILIGHT. Her performance captures the emotional upheaval of mortal Bella's desperate love for vampire Edward and the obstacles to their perilous reunion. Like Romeo and Juliet, Edward and Bella suffer from their own folly, as well as the disapproval of their families. Kadushin's silvery, feminine voice delivers the unfolding events with precise, consistent timing, showcasing Meyer's story without overwhelming it. While the male characters could be slightly more distinct, the dialogue is clear as are Bella's numerous internal monologues. Kadushin ably succeeds at creating an addictive listen from Meyer's tumultuous story of star-crossed lovers. The combination will not disappoint. C.A. © AudioFile 2007, Portland, Maine-- Copyright © AudioFile, Portland, Maine --This text refers to the Audio CD edition.
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Thursday, August 28, 2008

100 Greatest Science Discoveries of All Time

Review
“A former research scientist, Haven is now a nationally-recognized master storyteller and author of numerous books. His latest offering for students and interested general readers briefly describes the 100 scientific discoveries which have had the greatest impact on the development of human science and thinking, from Archimedes' discovery of the two fundamental principles underlying physics and engineering to recent work on the human genome. The text provides not only information on science discoveries, but also on the process of doing science and insights into the lives key people in the field. Each entry includes a definition of the discovery and its name, the year of discovery, discovering scientist, why it ranks as one of the 100 greatest, how it was discovered, and a reference list.”–SciTech Book News

“Listed in chronological order, the "discoveries" range from young Archimedes's description of levers (ca. 260 B.C.E.) and Vesalius's revolutionary study of human anatomy (1543) to Neils Bohr's theory of atomic bonding (1913) and the mapping of the human genome (2003). The author opens each entry with a lucid justification for its inclusion, goes on to relate each discovery's circumstances in a lively way ("Tipped off that Franklin had new information, Crick stole one of the Rosalind's X-shaped X-rays"), and concludes with a substantial reading list....[w]ould make a useful supplemental resource for students of the history of science.”–School Library Journal

“While this reference is indicated for students grades 6 and up, it's reviewed here for its importance and relevance to many a high school to adult reader who wants a chronological chart of the most notable scientific discoveries, from Archimedes' discovery of the two basic principles underlying physics to discoveries about human anatomy and black holes. From health to astronomy, fun facts about these scientific breakthroughs gather the real stories behind discoveries and reveal how scientists work to prove or disprove theories.”–California Bookwatch

“Each discovery is described in two pages and has the year of discovery, an inset box with "What is it?" and Who discovered it?" A paragraph defends "Why is this one of the 100 greatest?" and continues with "How it was discovered." Fun Facts are shown with a light bulb icon, and a "More to explore" bibliography will have six or more citations for further research. In settling students at the beginning of each class, science teachers may choose to read one of these entries either one day or stretch it over two days. While it belongs on the reference shelf, you may want to have one or more copies for your circulating collection. This is a winner and you will want to "book talk" it for your science teachers as soon as your copy arrives. Helping them integrate this content into their curriculum will help make science more important to students who might be less interested.”–GALE Reference for Students
Product Description
Throughout history, science has changed lives and dramatically altered the way in which the universe is perceived. Focusing on the 100 most significant scientific events of all time--from Archimedes' discovery of the two fundamental principles underlying physics and engineering (levers and buoyancy) in 260 B.C.E. to human anatomy, Jupiter's moons, electrons, black holes, the human genome, and more--storyteller Kendall Haven has created a ready reference for those seeking information on science discoveries. Brimming with fascinating and fun facts about 100 scientific breakthroughs, this collection presents the real stories behind the history of science, at the same time offering a panoramic overview of the history of science and an introduction to some of the most important scientists in history. Grades 6 and up.

About the Author
KENDALL HAVEN is a nationally recognized master storyteller and the author of numerous books, including Marvels of Math, Write Right!, and Close Encounters with Deadly Dangers. A former research scientist, he is based in Fulton, California.

Saturday, June 28, 2008

100 Greatest Science Discoveries of All Time by Kendall Haven



Product Description

Throughout history, science has changed lives and dramatically altered the way in which the universe is perceived. Focusing on the 100 most significant scientific events of all time--from Archimedes' discovery of the two fundamental principles underlying physics and engineering (levers and buoyancy) in 260 B.C.E. to human anatomy, Jupiter's moons, electrons, black holes, the human genome, and more--storyteller Kendall Haven has created a ready reference for those seeking information on science discoveries. Brimming with fascinating and fun facts about 100 scientific breakthroughs, this collection presents the real stories behind the history of science, at the same time offering a panoramic overview of the history of science and an introduction to some of the most important scientists in history. Grades 6 and up.
Product Details

* Amazon Sales Rank: #357678 in Books
* Published on: 2007-02-28
* Number of items: 1
* Binding: Paperback
* 272 pages

Editorial Reviews

Review
“A former research scientist, Haven is now a nationally-recognized master storyteller and author of numerous books. His latest offering for students and interested general readers briefly describes the 100 scientific discoveries which have had the greatest impact on the development of human science and thinking, from Archimedes' discovery of the two fundamental principles underlying physics and engineering to recent work on the human genome. The text provides not only information on science discoveries, but also on the process of doing science and insights into the lives key people in the field. Each entry includes a definition of the discovery and its name, the year of discovery, discovering scientist, why it ranks as one of the 100 greatest, how it was discovered, and a reference list.”–SciTech Book News

“Listed in chronological order, the "discoveries" range from young Archimedes's description of levers (ca. 260 B.C.E.) and Vesalius's revolutionary study of human anatomy (1543) to Neils Bohr's theory of atomic bonding (1913) and the mapping of the human genome (2003). The author opens each entry with a lucid justification for its inclusion, goes on to relate each discovery's circumstances in a lively way ("Tipped off that Franklin had new information, Crick stole one of the Rosalind's X-shaped X-rays"), and concludes with a substantial reading list....[w]ould make a useful supplemental resource for students of the history of science.”–School Library Journal

“While this reference is indicated for students grades 6 and up, it's reviewed here for its importance and relevance to many a high school to adult reader who wants a chronological chart of the most notable scientific discoveries, from Archimedes' discovery of the two basic principles underlying physics to discoveries about human anatomy and black holes. From health to astronomy, fun facts about these scientific breakthroughs gather the real stories behind discoveries and reveal how scientists work to prove or disprove theories.”–California Bookwatch

“Each discovery is described in two pages and has the year of discovery, an inset box with "What is it?" and Who discovered it?" A paragraph defends "Why is this one of the 100 greatest?" and continues with "How it was discovered." Fun Facts are shown with a light bulb icon, and a "More to explore" bibliography will have six or more citations for further research. In settling students at the beginning of each class, science teachers may choose to read one of these entries either one day or stretch it over two days. While it belongs on the reference shelf, you may want to have one or more copies for your circulating collection. This is a winner and you will want to "book talk" it for your science teachers as soon as your copy arrives. Helping them integrate this content into their curriculum will help make science more important to students who might be less interested.”–GALE Reference for Students

About the Author
KENDALL HAVEN is a nationally recognized master storyteller and the author of numerous books, including Marvels of Math, Write Right!, and Close Encounters with Deadly Dangers. A former research scientist, he is based in Fulton, California.
Customer Reviews

Real stories behind discoveries5
While this reference is indicated for students grades 6 and up, it's reviewed here for its importance and relevance to many a high school to adult reader who wants a chronological chart of the most notable scientific discoveries, from Archimedes' discovery of the two basic principles underlying physics to discoveries about human anatomy and black holes. From health to astronomy, fun facts about these scientific breakthroughs gather the real stories behind discoveries and reveal how scientists work to prove or disprove theories.

Diane C. Donovan
California Bookwatch

Friday, June 20, 2008

A Historical Dictionary of Psychiatry by Edward Shorter



Product Description

This is the first historical dictionary of psychiatry. It covers the subject from autism to Vienna, and includes the key concepts, individuals, places, and institutions that have shaped the evolution of psychiatry and the neurosciences. An introduction puts broad trends and international differences in context, and there is an extensive bibliography for further reading. Each entry gives the main dates, themes, and personalities involved in the unfolding of the topic. Longer entries describe the evolution of such subjects as depression, schizophrenia, and psychotherapy. The book gives ready reference to when things happened in psychiatry, how and where they happened, and who made the main contributions. In addition, it touches on such social themes as "women in psychiatry," "criminality and psychiatry," and "homosexuality and psychiatry." A comprehensive index makes immediately accessible subjects that do not appear in the alphabetical listing. Among those who will appreciate this dictionary are clinicians curious about the origins of concepts they use in their daily practices, such as "paranoia," "selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors" (SSRIs), or "tardive dyskinesia"; basic scientists who want ready reference to the development of such concepts as "neurotransmitters," "synapse," or "neuroimaging"; students of medical history keen to situate the psychiatric narrative within larger events, and the general public curious about illnesses that might affect them, their families and their communities-or readers who merely want to know about the grand chain of events from the asylum to Freud to Prozac. Bringing together information from the English, French, German, Italian, and Scandinavian languages, the Dictionary rests on an enormous base of primary sources that cover the growth of psychiatry through all of Western society.
Product Details

* Amazon Sales Rank: #761627 in Books
* Published on: 2005-02-17
* Number of items: 1
* Binding: Hardcover
* 352 pages

Editorial Reviews

Review

"...I highly recommend [this book] for all college, university, and public libraries." --Doody's
"...have done a remarkable job of compilation and made access to the knowledge they produced very easy. In its main aims the book is a genuine success and something genuinely new."--Lancet
"As a historian of psychiatry, Edward Shorter is well known for setting out his stall in full public view and bringing a great deal of factual detail and strong personal feelings to the task at hand."--he Lancet

About the Author
Edward Shorter is at University of Toronto.

Friday, June 6, 2008

Advanced Number Theory by Harvey Cohn



Product Description

Eminent mathematician/teacher approaches algebraic number theory from historical standpoint. Demonstrates how concepts, definitions, theories have evolved during last 2 centuries. Abounds with numerical examples, over 200 problems, many concrete, specific theorems. Includes numerous graphs and tables.

Product Details

* Amazon Sales Rank: #700713 in Books
* Published on: 1980-08-01
* Number of items: 1
* Binding: Paperback
* 288 pages

Customer Reviews

All about quadratric number fields, but little else4
From 1962, this is a detailed account of quadratic number fields, and makes a fair introduction to the theory of number fields of any degree. Ideal theory (restricted to the quadratic case) is well covered in plenty of detail. Gauss's classic theory of binary quadratic forms is also included.

Cohn is clearly quite keen on the subject, and is not just writing a textbook on some arbitrary topic for which he thinks there might be a market. And he has no fear of including pedagogical remarks in a textbook. The English is a bit awkward in places, but that is a minor thing.

The basics about characters and Dirichlet L-series are developed, but only to the extent needed to give Dirichlet's original proof of his theorem on arithmetic progressions. That proof, unlike later ones, uses Dirichlet's class number formula for quadratic fields, and is worth a look.

There is a lengthy but now dated bibliography.

An unusual feature is a table (from Sommer's 1911 book) describing the structure of Z[sqrt(n)] for all nonsquare n from -99 to 99.

nice text, but somewhat hard to read4
This book gives a nice treatment of the theory of quadratic number rings and fields. It also covers a few other topics like class field theory and the Dirichlet problem. It requires surprisingly little algebra, but this makes some parts of the text seem to drag if you already know the algebra he covers. Not really recommended for independent study, since some arguments are a bit confusing, and it has few examples.

Advanced, but now dated. Still useful.4
This is definitely an advanced book. But no book claiming to be advanced can hold that title for long since mathematical research is progressive. As advanced as the book is, it's just an introduction to advanced number theory now, and dated in places. This book was orginally published as "A Second Course in Number Theory " in 1962. I own several books by Harvey Cohn and I appreciate his writing style. He writes with the complete book in mind and every chapter and paragraph is cohesively developed. His writing (between the numerous equations, tables and proofs) is lucid and conversational with historical motivation. He places a strong emphasis on ideal theory, and quadratic fields. In this regard the book is almost redundant given his "Class Field Theory" book.

Be warned there is some dated material in this book. It is prior to Alan Baker's 1966 proof about d=-163 and imaginary quadratic fields, and such is still only conjectured in the text. And of course, FLT wasn't on Wiles' check list when this book was published.

It doesn't cover prime-producing polynomials or transcendental functions and their relation to class field theory, like one would hope (I guess the world had to wait for Baker for that). And forget about rational points on elliptic curves, none at all. It's from the period when elliptic equations were poo-pooed as relics before being brought to the fore again by recent developments.

Despite all the short-comings, I can still recommend the book as a worthy edition to your number theory library. Just don't put it at the top of your lists (unless you're short on cash and Dover is all you can afford).

Monday, June 2, 2008

Pairs Trading: Quantitative Methods and Analysis (Wiley Finance) by Ganapathy Vidyamurthy


Product Description

The first in-depth analysis of pairs trading
Pairs trading is a market-neutral strategy in its most simple form. The strategy involves being long (or bullish) one asset and short (or bearish) another. If properly performed, the investor will gain if the market rises or falls. Pairs Trading reveals the secrets of this rigorous quantitative analysis program to provide individuals and investment houses with the tools they need to successfully implement and profit from this proven trading methodology. Pairs Trading contains specific and tested formulas for identifying and investing in pairs, and answers important questions such as what ratio should be used to construct the pairs properly.
Ganapathy Vidyamurthy (Stamford, CT) is currently a quantitative software analyst and developer at a major New York City hedge fund.
Product Details

* Amazon Sales Rank: #195957 in Books
* Published on: 2004-08-30
* Number of items: 1
* Binding: Hardcover
* 224 pages

Editorial Reviews

Download Description
The first in-depth analysis of pairs trading
Pairs trading is a market-neutral strategy in its most simple form. The strategy involves being long (or bullish) one asset and short (or bearish) another. If properly performed, the investor will gain if the market rises or falls. Pairs Trading reveals the secrets of this rigorous quantitative analysis program to provide individuals and investment houses with the tools they need to successfully implement and profit from this proven trading methodology. Pairs Trading contains specific and tested formulas for identifying and investing in pairs, and answers important questions such as what ratio should be used to construct the pairs properly.
Ganapathy Vidyamurthy (Stamford, CT) is currently a quantitative software analyst and developer at a major New York City hedge fund.

From the Inside Flap
Pairs trading is the simplest possible example of employing a market neutral strategy. It involves the trading of securities in pairs comprised of a long position in one security and a short position in the other. If performed properly, an investor will be in the ideal position of gaining in any situation-whether the market rises or falls.

Author Ganapathy Vidyamurthy examines two versions of pairs trading that arise in the context of statistical arbitrage and risk arbitrage. He offers a compelling point of view that integrates theory and practice-providing in-depth analysis and insight in both of these cases. Issues encountered when translating theory to practice are addressed in a direct manner, arming the investment professional with the quantitative tools needed to answer key questions relating to this type of trading.

Written in an easy, accessible style, the book is a seamless blend of ideas ranging from econometrics, control theory, and operations research to core financial theories like arbitrage pricing theory and the theory of contingent claims. It is organized in three information-packed parts. Part I sets the context for the rest of the book by introducing material on key topics including time series, factor models, and Kalman filtering.

Part II of the book details statistical arbitrage pairs, a relative value arbitrage based on the premise that there is a long-run equilibrium between the prices of the stocks comprising the pair. Part III moves on to illustrate the trading techniques and strategies associated with risk arbitrage. This widely practiced arbitrage technique involves pairs trading that arises in the context of corporate events, especially mergers and acquisitions. You'll also discover why-although they are called arbitrage strategies in the industry-they are by no means risk-free.

Pairs Trading contains specific and tested formulas for identifying and investing in pairs. To further facilitate an understanding of this method, a bulleted summary highlighting key points is provided at the end of every chapter. Peppered with humor and snippets of history, Pairs Trading provides a framework for and insights on applying rigorous analysis to trading pairs in the equity markets.

From the Back Cover
Comprised of three information-packed parts, Pairs Trading presents an in-depth look at the various aspects of these strategies and provides quantitative tools to assist in their analysis. The first part of this comprehensive resource sets the context for the rest of the book by introducing preliminary material on some key topics, including time series, factor models, and Kalman filtering.

After presenting the broad ideas and concepts of this trading method, Pairs Trading delves into two different versions of pairs trading in the equity markets-statistical arbitrage pairs trading and risk arbitrage. Part II of this book details statistical arbitrage pairs trading, which is a relative value arbitrage on two securities based on the premise that there is a long-run equilibrium between the prices of the stocks comprising the pair. Part III moves on to illustrate the trading techniques and strategies associated with risk arbitrage-the widely practiced arbitrage technique that involves pairs trading arising in the context of corporate events, especially mergers and acquisitions.

Written in a straightforward and accessible style, Pairs Trading provides a framework that will allow you to boost the bottom line of any portfolio.
Customer Reviews

Very interesting material4
It's a good read even with the somewhat unorthodox mathematical notation. The overall concept of pairs trading is introduced well, with just enough detail to tempt the more adventurous gambler. The author appears well versed in the subject and writes well but assumes a relatively high level of mathematical maturity on the part of the reader.

the only good introduction to pairs trades 5
When people talk about "quant" stuff, they are generally talking about two fairly distinct kinds of quant. There are the derivatives guys (options sell side & risk hedgers), and the 'statistical arbitrage' guys. This is one of the best books for a larval 'statistical arbitrage' guy. 'Statistical arbitrage' is a term referring to the techniques used by sophisticated hedge funds and trading desks to provide 'risk free' returns. I stick in the scare quotes around these phrases, because they're not really arbitrage, though they can be pretty decoupled from market returns. The techniques go well beyond just trading pairs, so the phrase, 'stat arb' is probably with us for good, even though it is often neither stat nor arb. The mean reverting versions of these techniques were largely invented by Nunzio Tartaglia and company (primarily Gerry Bamberger according to Thorp) at Morgan Stanley in the 1980s. Many of his underlings went on to found their own hedge funds, and the secret eventually became relatively common knowledge. Boesky was one of the more famous practitioners of merger arbitrage, which is an older, related technique.

This book is a fun introduction to 'statistical arbitrage,' concentrating on the standard "mean reverting pairs" variety, and a decent explanation of merger arbitrage which he unifies with mean reverting stat arb in an interesting way. These two strategies still form the basis of a large number of high frequency techniques in one form or another. In fact, the book provides enough background material to be useful for all kinds of techniques for finding alpha; it has a very clear treatment of factor models, time series analysis (best low level one I have ever read, anywhere) and what market neutrality is and isn't. He provides a decent amount of discussion of the complexities surrounding tradeability and other practical issues that get swept under the rug in most books.

Sure, there are a lot of specific 'stat arb' techniques he doesn't mention explicitly. He doesn't talk about basket trading plays, index arbitrage, volatility arbitrage or any of the other myriad clever (and often over my head) techniques used by sophisticated fund managers to vacuum up loose change that dumb people leave on the street. So what? Vidyamurthy gives you enough material you can go out and learn the practical details of real strategies on your own. If you're gifted enough, you can go figure them out (and more) for yourself once you understand the material in the book: they're mostly variations on these themes. Why should Vidyamurthy give away the keys to the kingdom for $100? Be happy he wrote the book at all. Presumably, he makes a living actually doing 'stat arb' type things, and his motivation was to have a book to give to his underlings so he didn't have to explain GARCH and cointegration to someone who breathes out of his mouth for the 9,000th time.

Anyone who can't read this book simply doesn't have the intellectual horsepower or attention span to do this kind of trading. The book is almost excruciatingly clear, it is very short, and even does the MBA's the favor of tucking the scary mathematics involving matrices and standard deviations safely away in chapter appendices. I mean, it even has cartoons and funny anecdotes (which are actually very funny: I detect a Wodehouse fan in Vidyamurthy). You have to actually pay attention while you read, and some sections, you may have to read twice. The concepts will not leap off the page and embed themselves into your frontal lobes, but it really isn't that difficult for any intelligent person to understand. I can think of no better introduction to pairs trading, or general alpha quant type stuff than this book. It should probably be on every wannabe quant or trader's desk if it isn't already etched into the fiber of their being.

Covers the right stuff but poorly written2
I was looking for books on stat arb and risk arb and was surprised that not many titles showed up for my search on Amazon. I eventually bought this book (a used copy) and although the book covers exactly the kind of stuff you want to learn about pairs trading, the writing is very poor and there are way too many places where the sentences don't make any sense, regardless of your math/stat background. This book is not a how-to book. It's a general treatise and not a good one at that. I cannot recommend this book. You may want to check out Tsay's financial time series analysis book which, although not specifically for pairs trading, has all the essential materials.

Friday, May 30, 2008

Dynamical Systems (London Mathematical Society Student Texts)

Dynamical Systems (London Mathematical Society Student Texts)


Product Description

Michael Robert Herman had a profound impact on the theory of dynamical systems over the last 30 years. His seminar at the École Polytechnique had major worldwide influence and was the main vector in the development of the theory of dynamical systems in France. His interests covered most aspects of the subject though closest to his heart were the so-called small divisors problems, in particular those related to the stability of quasiperiodic motions. This volume aims to reflect the depth and variety of these interests and the frontier of present research; a frontier shaped decisively by Michael Herman's contributions.
Product Details
Amazon Sales Rank: #2691890 in Books
Published on: 2006-03-06
Number of items: 1
Binding: Hardcover
602 pages
Editorial Reviews

Review
'Michael Robert Herman had a profound impact on the theory of dynamical systems over the last 30 years. This volume aims to reflect the depth and variety of these interests and the frontier of present research.' L'enseignement mathematique

Monday, May 26, 2008

Nelson Textbook of Pediatrics e-dition: Text with Continually Updated Online Reference by Richard E. Behrman




Product Description

Tap into all of the latest knowledge and expertise in your field ... in print and online! Both a user-friendly printed reference and a fully searchable web site, the e-dition of this classic text gives you two fast ways to find expert solutions to the clinical challenges that arise in your practice. Regular updates online ensure that you'll always have access to the most current information!

Equips you with state-of-the-art, evidence-based guidance to help you offer your patients the best possible outcomes.
Includes more than 750 outstanding illustrations that show you exactly what to look for and how to proceed.
Uses highly structured full-color page layouts inside the printed book to make reference effortless.
Offers rapid access to the answers you need via the fully searchable web site.
Delivers regular updates online, overseen by the authors, to keep you continually apprised of important new clinical developments.
Lets you download all of the book's illustrations for use in electronic presentations.
Links references to the corresponding MEDLINE abstracts to simplify further research.


Your purchase entitles you to access the web site until the next edition is published, or until the current edition is no longer offered for sale by Elsevier, whichever occurs first. If the next edition is published less than one year after your purchase, you will be entitled to online access for one year from your date of purchase. Elsevier reserves the right to offer a suitable replacement product (such as a downloadable or CD-ROM-based electronic version) should access to the web site be discontinued.
Product Details
Amazon Sales Rank: #513300 in Books
Published on: 2003-05-29
Number of items: 1
Binding: Hardcover
2672 pages
Editorial Reviews

From Book News, Inc.
Edited by Behrman (pediatrics, Stanford U. School of Medicine), Kliegman (pediatrics, Medical College of Wisconsin), and Jenson (pediatrics, Eastern Virginia Medical School), this general medical school textbook seeks to be comprehensive in its treatment of the medical problems faced by children. In addition to the standard information on diseases and disorders, organized by bodily system, the editors include sections on psychological disorders, social issues, children with special health needs, nutrition, development, and environmental health hazards. The text does not note the contents of the CD-ROM.Copyright © 2004 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR

Review
"This Product provides a wealth of information along with updates which could never be provided in as easy as seamless a way as they are presented here.Most textbooks would do well to emulate this format in years to come." -Doody's Book Review Service


"It is clear that the usefulness of Nelson's 17th edition has been greatly increased by its textual revisions and by the addition of its CD-accessed interactive Web site." JAMA

Book Info
Univ. of California, San Francisco. Brandon/Hill Medical List minimal-core, first-purchase selection (#446). Text provides a comprehensive update of pediatric medicine. Represents a broad spectrum of diseases and disorders affecting children. For medical students, residents, and physicians. Text with CD-ROM is also available. Previous edition: c2000.
Customer Reviews

Fantastic Reference Text for Chiropractors
This book is a must for chiropractors who's practice includes pediatric patients. It is a one stop source for everything I have needed in practice.

Excellent
One of the best all around references I have found. It gives you the important info you need and cuts out the fluff.

THE Textbook of Pediatrics.
THis is THE textbook of pediatrics. I own Rudolphs and Oski's as well. This is the book to buy (or read if you have MDconsult). It has the best diagrams, graphs, authors, and is the easiest to read. Don't waste your time with the minibooks such as currents or the mini Nelson's. Just read this one. You'll be glad.

Finite Math by Margaret L. Lial



Product Details
Amazon Sales Rank: #646228 in Books
Published on: 2000-06-30
Number of items: 1
Binding: Hardcover

Linear Algebra and Its Applications by David C. Lay



Product Details
Amazon Sales Rank: #1050543 in Books
Published on: 2003-01
Number of items: 1
Binding: Paperback
492 pages
Editorial Reviews

About the Author

David C. Lay holds a B.A. from Aurora University (Illinois), and an M.A. and Ph.D. from the University of California at Los Angeles. Lay has been an educator and research mathematician since 1966, mostly at the University of Maryland, College Park. He has also served as a visiting professor at the University of Amsterdam, the Free University in Amsterdam, and the University of Kaiserslautern, Germany. He has over 30 research articles published in functional analysis and linear algebra.

As a founding member of the NSF-sponsored Linear Algebra Curriculum Study Group, Lay has been a leader in the current movement to modernize the linear algebra curriculum. Lay is also co-author of several mathematics texts, including Introduction to Functional Analysis, with Angus E. Taylor, Calculus and Its Applications, with L.J. Goldstein and D.I. Schneider, and Linear Algebra Gems-Assets for Undergraduate Mathematics, with D. Carlson, C.R. Johnson, and A.D. Porter.

A top-notch educator, Professor Lay has received four university awards for teaching excellence, including, in 1996, the title of Distinguished Scholar-Teacher of the University of Maryland. In 1994, he was given one of the Mathematical Association of America's Awards for Distinguished College or Unviersity Teaching of Mathematics. He has been elected by the university students to membership in Alpha Lambda Delta National Scholastic Honor Society and Golden Key National Honor Society. In 1989, Aurora University conferred on him the Outstanding Alumnus award. Lay is a member of the American Mathematical Society, the Canadian Mathematical Society, the International Linear Algebra Society, the Mathematical Association of America, Sigma Xi, and the Society for Industrial and Applied Mathematics. Since 1992, he has served several terms on the national board of the Association of Christians in the Mathematical Sciences.
Customer Reviews

Incredibly Accessible
I used this book to teach myself linear algebra using a lesson plan developed by a teacher. A few things I found really helpful:

Lay constantly admonishes the reader to carefully study the text, by reading and re-reading. He understands that students learning linear algebra are likely to to be embarking on more abstract/advanced mathematics in the future--and he cares enough to teach good study skills as well as math. I've followed his advice, and found that with proper effort, I am able to teach myself.

Many of the questions are conceptual or True/False, which helps me to retain new concepts.

The study guide (sold separately, but very important if you're self-teaching) only includes answers to odd-numbered exercises. However, the answers are nicely detailed.

I especially appreciate that Lay refuses to flat-out offer answers to conceptual and True/False questions. Instead, there are hints and references to page numbers where helpful information can be found. This is important, not only because it (again) helps reinforce good study skills, but it encourages students to really try a problem before giving up and looking up the answer.

The introduction of new concepts is always followed by one or more examples, which helps to link theory to practice. In general, there are many examples that illustrate good problem-solving techniques. Proofs are detailed and well-justified, and there are some simple proofs that are left as problems in the book. These proofs are simple enough to not be terribly daunting to the student who is new to more abstract mathematical ideas.

For the student who would ask, "well what is it good for?" there are plenty of sections dedicated purely to applications of material learned in previous sections.

Detail-oriented methodical learners like myself should benefit from this book.

a good teacher helps...
covers 75% of the detail and leaves the 25% up to you. it lacks clear explition is vector space secotion (row col vector nul basis etc). it seems like you do the first coumple of sections not understanding what you are getting at but when you get to chapter 6 or so the past stuff finaly makes sense. I found the book hard to understand when it was talking about maping, one to one on too. i suggest a TI-83 or higher and the solutions manual. The book also lacks pictures showing dimention row col nul basis etc.

Choose Another Book
The organization and the treatment given to most subjects are well below what one would expect for a Wikipedia entry on each respective topic.

Anyone who uses this book for any kind of self-study is unlikely to get more out of it more than a few examples on multiplying matrices, row reduction, and some poetry about eigen-spaces and vector spaces.

Take a look at ``Linear Algebra Done Right'' by Alxr.

Saturday, May 24, 2008

Physics For Dummies (For Dummies (Math & Science)) by Steve Holzner



Product Description

Does just thinking about the laws of motion make your head spin? Does studying electricity short your circuits? Do the complexities of thermodynamics cool your enthusiasm?

Thanks to this book, you don’t have to be Einstein to understand physics. As you read about Newton’s Laws, Kepler’s Laws, Hooke’s Law, Ohm’s Law, and others, you’ll appreciate the For Dummies law: The easier we make it, the faster people understand it and the more they enjoy it! Whether you’re taking a class, helping kids with homework, or trying to find out how the world works, this book helps you understand basic physics. It covers:
Measurements, units, and significant figures
Forces such as displacement, speed, and acceleration
Vectors and physics notation
Motion, energy, and waves (sound, light, wave-particle)
Solids, liquids, and gases
Thermodynamics
Electromagnetism
Relativity
Atomic and nuclear structures

Steven Holzner, Ph.D. earned his B.S. at MIT and his Ph.D. at Cornell, where he taught Physics 101 and 102 for over 10 years. He livens things up with cool physics facts, real-world examples, and simple experiments that will heighten your enthusiasm for physics and science. The book ends with some out-of-this world physics that will set your mind in motion:
The possibility of wormholes in space
The Big Bang
How the gravitational pull of black holes is too strong for even light to escape

May the Force be with you!
Product Details
Amazon Sales Rank: #3084 in Books
Published on: 2004-11-28
Number of items: 1
Binding: Paperback
384 pages
Editorial Reviews

From the Back Cover
Filled with cool physics facts and real-world examples

The fun and easy way® to get up to speed on the basic concepts of physics

Does thermodynamics leave you cold? Are you vexed by vectors? Does electromagnetism seem like just a lot of static? Relax! This friendly guide puts the fun back into physics fundamentals. Author Steven Holzner walks you through all the topics typically covered in Physics 101 — and throws in some wild physics facts about relativity, time travel, quantum theory, and more.

Discover how to
Work with physics notation and math
Measure force and energy
Investigate heat, pressure, and sound
Examine electricity, magnetism, and light
Explore black holes, planetary rotation, and more

About the Author
Steven Holzner is an award-winning author of 94 books that have sold over two million copies and been translated into 18 languages. He served on the Physics faculty at Cornell University for more than a decade, teaching both Physics 101 and Physics 102. Dr. Holzner received his Ph.D. in physics from Cornell and performed his undergrad work at MIT, where he has also served as a faculty member.
Customer Reviews

Dummies?
Well, I'm not a dummy but this book will make you check your past algebra skills.

Great
I have already received a degree in physics, but am always looking at texts for further understanding and alternate perspectives. This book is good for either a beginner or someone looking strengthen their grasp of physics.

Pretty good
It's pretty good, although it could be better. It would have helped to be a little more concise, or to have more examples; really just MORE. It does help, though.

Friday, May 23, 2008

Linear Algebra & Its Apps 10 Volumes by Richard Brualdi




Product Details
Published on: 1997
Binding: Paperback

Tensor Calculus by J. L. Synge



Product Description

Fundamental introduction for beginning student of absolute differential calculus and for those interested in applications of tensor calculus to mathematical physics and engineering. Topics include spaces and tensors; basic operations in Riemannian space, curvature of space, special types of space, relative tensors, ideas of volume, more.
Product Details
Amazon Sales Rank: #235005 in Books
Published on: 1978-07-01
Number of items: 1
Binding: Paperback
324 pages
Customer Reviews

No resolutions for the exercises
My background is being an electrical engineer with casual interest in physics. I was trying to start understanding more about relativity.

Being honest this was my first book on the topic of tensors. What can I say? tough start. Don't even bother if you aren't a graduate student (IMHO). Complex notation, fast paced (not for the student), few resolved exercises, no companion material (web pages or others).
I think this book is thought to be a companion book for someone who already has a certain knowledge about tensors.
In the book, there are many exercises but none of them is resolved in details, on the contrary, they are left to the reader as a "homework". Which is a pity because is in the exercises where you can hope to find some help to understand this complex subject.
As far as I know There is not a place in Internet where one can check the resolution of the exercises in this book.

This is really a good book, despite what some people are saying...
I find it rather strange that several of the negative reviews of Synge & Schild are really negative opinions about the lack of elegance of tensors, compared to the new-fangled differential forms.

This is like blaming the author of a book on the grammar of a language, because you think the grammar is too complicated. Sorry, but the author of the book can only explain as well as he/she can the grammar that exists, it's not within his scope to improve upon it!

This book is a relatively easy-to-read and carefully motivated text on tensor calculus, a subject that does tend to lead to that eye-glazing-over effect because of the numerous indices. It does a very good job of keeping the focus on the concepts, without getting too bogged down in the equations - most of the time.

Does it need to be said that this subject is still useful, despite its comparative inelegance, because so many classic texts and articles on general relativity use this language? Will those who scorn to deal with indices demand that all these papers be properly translated into differential forms before they deign to read them?

Hard to follow
It's an old fashioned text, confusing and hard to follow.

A Geometric Approach to Differential Forms by David Bachman



Product Description


The modern subject of differential forms subsumes classical vector calculus. This text presents differential forms from a geometric perspective accessible at the sophomore undergraduate level. The book begins with basic concepts such as partial differentiation and multiple integration and gently develops the entire machinery of differential forms. The author approaches the subject with the idea that complex concepts can be built up by analogy from simpler cases, which, being inherently geometric, often can be best understood visually.


Each new concept is presented with a natural picture that students can easily grasp. Algebraic properties then follow. This facilitates the development of differential forms without assuming a background in linear algebra. Throughout the text, emphasis is placed on applications in 3 dimensions, but all definitions are given so as to be easily generalized to higher dimensions. A centerpiece of the text is the generalized Stokes' theorem. Although this theorem implies all of the classical integral theorems of vector calculus, it is far easier for students to both comprehend and remember.


The text is designed to support three distinct course tracks: the first as the primary textbook for third semester (multivariable) calculus, suitable for anyone with a year of calculus; the second is aimed at students enrolled in sophomore-level vector calculus; while the third targets advanced undergraduates and beginning graduate students in physics or mathematics, covering more advanced topics such as Maxwell's equations, foliation theory, and cohomology.


Containing excellent motivation, numerous illustrations and solutions to selected problems in an appendix, the material has been tested in the classroom along all three potential course tracks.
Product Details
Amazon Sales Rank: #26207 in Books
Published on: 2006-08-30
Number of items: 1
Binding: Paperback
133 pages
Editorial Reviews

Review

From the reviews:

"[The author's] idea is to use geometric intuition to alleviate some of the algebraic difficulties...The emphasis is on understanding rather than on detailed derivations and proofs. This is definitely the right approach in a course at this level." MAA Reviews

"This book is intended as an elementary introduction to the notion of differential forms, written at an undergraduate level. The book certainly has its merits and is very nicely illustrated . It should be noted that the material, which has been tested already in the classroom, aims at three potential course tracks: a course in multivariable calculus, a course in vector calculus and a course for more advanced undergraduates (and beginning graduates)." Frans Cantrijn, Mathematical Reviews, Issue 2007 d
Customer Reviews

A geometric approach to differential forms
Easy to read, but not too deep in theory or algebraic properties of differntial forms. Interesting for many exercices to solve ( with solutions !) Useful to grasp an intuitive approach to the concept, but if you are seeking a thoroughtly book on the subject this is not the book.

A Very Accessable Intro to Forms
I highly recommend this text for anyone looking for a "gentle" introduction to forms and manifolds.

When learning a topic, I believe that it is important to develop both computational proficiency and a deep conceptual understanding. I have come to understand that manipulating symbols is not sufficient and that whenever possible, understanding the underlying geometry is critical.

For whatever reason, I struggled to understand forms from other sources. (Maybe I was too focused on the algebra of the wedge product.) However, Bachmann's exposition was easy to follow and very insightful. It was a revelation that all integrands are not differential forms. Also, I had read elsewhere that forms are a basis for the tangent space of a manifold. I could say the words but they contained little meaning for me. Within the first couple of days with Bachmannn's book, this as well as some other basic ideas became crystal clear. I particularly liked that he at times presents more than one geometric interpretation of an concept.

Anyone who has already seen some vector calculus and now wants a very quick introduction to forms with a minimum time investment can benefit greatly from this text. In total, I spent about a month reading, A Geometric Approach to Differential Forms and I am now confident that I am ready to tackle more advanced texts on the topic.

A word of caution, in the book's Preface, it is suggested that there are three possible tracks one can take with this text. In addition to an upper division track that focuses on forms and manifolds, one is a vector calculus track and another is a multi-variable calculus track. In either of the latter two cases, if that is your main interest, I would recommend a text like Marsden's Vector Calculus. It encompasses a broader base of material and it is also very well written.

The Mathematical Theory of Communication by Claude E Shannon



Product Details
Amazon Sales Rank: #238805 in Books
Published on: 1963-10-01
Number of items: 1
Binding: Paperback
144 pages
Customer Reviews

The Seminal Work in Information Theory
This book is the origin of information theory (then called "communication theory"). Explaining measurement of information in both discrete and continuous variables, this historic work defined one of the most important watershed moments in science, and serves as an excellent introduction to the subject.

The foundations of Information Theory
This book doesn't need any presentation: it is well known by all the scientific community as the "start point" of Information Theory. Roughly speaking, today we would not have cell phones or internet without Shannon's work.
With his fundamental theorem, in 1948, Shannon prooved that it was possible, under some conditions, to have reliable communication. Since that moment, the research on Information Theory has become more and more important and has continued to develop in many different ways.
So, this book is historically fundamental for all those people interested in Communications.

The one and only
Typically, a paper which defines a new field of science is not the best introduction to new researchers in the field. This is not the case with The Mathematical Theory of Communication. If you are interested in information theory, this is the one and only place to start.

A Course in Universal Algebra (Graduate texts in mathematics)



Product Details
Amazon Sales Rank: #2019747 in Books
Published on: 1982-03
Number of items: 1
Binding: Hardcover
276 pages
Customer Reviews

Though I haven't read it yet,
I found it(the millenium edition) online as a pdf or ps file. I think this book is good because I see it in many bibliography of the books of related subjects. Try any search engine under the book title.

Beautiful book. I still don't have one and I'm mad about it
The book is excellent introduction to Universal Algebra. In fact, I cannot imagine a person studying the subject who is not familiar with this (already) classic book. The only bad part is that it is impossible to find. Please, print it again. I'll by 10, two for me (one for the office and one for home) and the rest for my friends.

Very good but HARD to find!
This is one of the more recent basic texts on Universal Algebra. It is very well written, and is an absolute MUST for students of the subject, as well as a great resource for researchers. Unfortunately, it is out of print and extremely difficult to find. I have been looking for a copy in English for seven years with no success. Fortunately, there is a Hungarian edition (with a special appendix on Clones) available to those willing to break the language barrier (no small feat...) When will this classic text be reprinted?

Thursday, May 22, 2008

Algebraic Statistics: Computational Commutative Algebra in Statistics (Monographs on Statistics and Applied Probability) by Giovanni Pistone



Product Description

Written by pioneers in this exciting new field, Algebraic Statistics introduces the application of polynomial algebra to experimental design, discrete probability, and statistics. It begins with an introduction to Gröbner bases and a thorough description of their applications to experimental design. A special chapter covers the binary case with new application to coherent systems in reliability and two level factorial designs. The work paves the way, in the last two chapters, for the application of computer algebra to discrete probability and statistical modelling through the important concept of an algebraic statistical model. As the first book on the subject, Algebraic Statistics presents many opportunities for spin-off research and applications and should become a landmark work welcomed by both the statistical community and its relatives in mathematics and computer science.
Product Details
Amazon Sales Rank: #1173867 in Books
Published on: 2000-12-21
Number of items: 1
Binding: Hardcover
184 pages
Editorial Reviews

Review
...authors have been the predominant contributors to the field.... for anyone who wants to learn about, and perhaps contribute to, the field, this monograph is undoubtedly the place to start.
-Biometrics, Vol. 57, No. 3, September 2001
This very challenging monograph demonstrates how Gröbner bases may be used to represent experimental design, probability models and statistical models The book points clearly to the future potential use of algebraic tools.

Short Book Reviews, Vol. 21, No. 2, August, 2001

Book Info
An introduction to the use of polynomial algebra in experimental design, discrete probability and statistics. Presents many opportunities for spin-off research and paves the way for that application of computer algebra to probability and statistics. DLC: Mathematical statistics.

Group Theory by W. R. Scott



Product Description

Clear, well-organized coverage of most standard theorems: isomorphism theorems, transformations and subgroups, direct sums, abelian groups, etc. Over 500 exercises. Undergraduate-level.
Product Details
Amazon Sales Rank: #326034 in Books
Published on: 1987-06-01
Number of items: 1
Binding: Paperback
512 pages
Customer Reviews

An all-business bargain book.
This book is fantastic in my opinion. The ball gets rolling right away, and proceeds in a concise, rigorous fashion all the way to the end. "Pedantic" would be precisely the wrong word to describe the book. "Rigorous" is more like it. It doesn't bother for one second with the "hold my hands..." approach and certainly wastes no time on extraneous motivational stuff. For that, perhaps one should try Tony Robbins.

As a physicist, I first learned group theory from Tinkham's excellent "Group Theory and Quantum Mechanics," also a Dover, which is geared on all cylinders toward physical applications. There are times however, I want nothing but mathematics in all its stirling beauty. Definitions -> logic -> theorems. No namby-pamby stuff.

I had such a great time reading this book. If you have a soft spot for the prestineness of mathematics, I suspect you will enjoy this book as much as I did.

An excellent textbook
"Group Theory" (W.R.Scott) is an excellent textbook, with an axiomatic, temperate style which avoid useless gossiping; thanks to such concision, this book contains numerous results generally missing in other courses on the same subject, and often emphasizes interesting variations of some theories.
A great deal of investigation exercises complete this reference work. To my opinion, this book should be recommended to anyone who wants to begin studies on group theory.

No want of better books on the subject
This is probably the worst book on Group Theory a beginner could buy. If you're not a beginner, the book is dated and quite pedantic. The book lacks historic motivation, it lacks algebraic and geometric motivation, it lacks combinatorial and number-theoretic motivation -- so what then is it's motivation? Good question. It even lacks a comprehensive bibliography. If E. Galois was alive, I'm sure he'd ask for a duel with W.R. Scott for the pedantic way he's treated the subject. But don't expect to even find one paragraph about E. Galois in this book, It's utterly devoid of historic comment.

I give this book two stars because it's a cheap Dover edition, and as such doesn't hurt the pocket book much. But trust me, there is no want of better books on the subject. Try the classics on Group Theory by Hall, Kurosh or Zassenhaus before you try this one.

Invariance Theory, the Heat Equation, and the Atiyah-Singer Index Theorem (Mathematics Lecture Series) by Peter B. Gilkey



Product Description

This book treats the Atiyah-Singer index theorem using the heat equation, which gives a local formula for the index of any elliptic complex. Heat equation methods are also used to discuss Lefschetz fixed point formulas, the Gauss-Bonnet theorem for a manifold with smooth boundary, and the geometrical theorem for a manifold with smooth boundary. The author uses invariance theory to identify the integrand of the index theorem for classical elliptic complexes with the invariants of the heat equation.
Product Details
Amazon Sales Rank: #3355517 in Books
Published on: 1985-04
Number of items: 1
Binding: Hardcover
349 pages