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Although it also contains additional related essays, "Engineering the Human Germline" basically seems to be an edited transcript of a thought-provoking symposium (of the same name) which a thousand or so others and I attended at UCLA in March 1998. During that public event, an impressive panel of experts delivered intelligent, understandable lectures, then debated the great promises and dangers which might result from altering the genes which get passed to our children, grandchildren, etc. (such theoretical alteration of genes, in a nutshell, is what "germline" genetic engineering is). "Engineering the Human Germline" proves to be a worthy record of that symposium.
Some say the human gene pool is a sacred thing and that we should never "play God." Clearly, if you monkey around with the genetic code of an early-state embryo, you might wind up with a monstrosity on your hands. But what if (at some point in the future) you knew exactly what you were doing when you corrected (or requested the correction of) a pre-embryo's faulty genetic code? What if, as a result of your intervention, the resulting human being neither developed a deadly or life-shattering genetic disease (that it would have inherited, otherwise), nor passed the faulty gene(s) on to the next generation? The value of this promise seems to be at the core of what's explored by the numerous contributors of "Engineering the Human Germline."
At one point in this book we have a very outspoken James Watson (the 1962 Nobel-winning co-discoverer of DNA structure who also helped establish the Human Genome Project) saying, "It's common sense to try to develop it All in all, "Engineering the Human Germline" is a balanced, intelligent, readable resource for professionals, students or the average citizen who wants to know more about the groundbreaking developments in human genetics and the surrounding issues which will affect us all.
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great resource
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The quality of this book is a standard to which all others of its genre should be written to, but unfortunately too often aren't. I salute the author for a job truly well-done, and I unreservedly recommend this title to anyone who has even a remote interest in the subject matter; the cost of the book is money well-spent. The book is that good.
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Among the many instructive chapters, the one on health care is detailed and extensive, covering all the common ailments, with useful diagrams and treatment solutions.
There's also a chapter on home care, with good tips on how to administer medication, flea control, and how to take care of emergencies such as burns, choking, etc.
Chapter 5, "Physical, Mental, and Emotional Well Being" is a short but valuable one. It will tell you how to deal with the stressful situations in a cat's life, like moving, travel, and the introduction of a new pet into the family.
Being a "cat person", I much appreciate the care and research that went into this book. The layout is excellent, with several nice b&w photos, easy to read print, "Veterinary Tips" at the end of each chapter from veterinarians across the country, and an occasional side-bar with highlighted and very helpful information.
This is an intelligent, well written book that will serve your cat well and keep it purring from youth to old age.
Where is the second edition?
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