Biological Hazards: An Oryx Sourcebook

Disease-causing viruses and bacteria, harmful insects, poisonous plants, dangerous animals, and other types of living threats to human life are covered in this compact handbook.

VOYA

Although a concentrated discussion of hazards to humankind might logically lead to unnecessary fears and possibly provoke obsessive-compulsive behaviors, Callahan's treatment does not. Her humorous and clear explanations of the realistic risks involved in each threat make the categories of alphabetically arranged entries a fascinating exploration. Many subjects are controversial, such as biological warfare and terrorism, and others are historical topics including polio and Coca-Cola. Her presentation is balanced, serving the student well by illustrating historical and current scientific outlook, debunking myths, and updating current thought. For example, in discussing the criteria for blood donors, the actual biological dangers are considered with the feared repercussions and include historical contexts. The lively text presents salient cases that explain each biological hazard as simple as food poisoning or as complex as Cyclosporiasis. A comprehensive array of pathogens (protozoal diseases and hepatitis), toxins and venoms (newts or African killer bees), allergens (latex), and predators (sharks) does not become boring, as the author's clear, lightly sarcastic style introduces current scientific knowledge, prevention, statistics, future research, and related anecdotes. Because of the reference-book appearance and tight organization of this resource, students will take it seriously as a homework source, but the insightful, cohesive presentation will also draw young adults to browse various high-interest subjects and homework needs. Although earmarked for the reference section in many college and university libraries, placing this book in public and high school libraries in both thereference and circulating collections will allow use for homework assignments as well as generic reading. Those with subject interests will explore the vast recommended reading lists included at the end of each section, as well as recommended print and nonprint resources and organizations provided at the end of the book. As an outstanding reference resource, it is amazingly entertaining. Glossary. Index. Illus. Photos. Charts. Biblio. Source Notes. Further Reading. 2002, Oryx, 385p. PLB Call

JOAN R. CALLAHAN is the award-winning author of numerous biological journal papers, environmental science documents, science and engineering books, and magazine articles. She received her doctorate in zoology from the University of Arizona and has worked as a consultant and researcher, most recently with a grant from the USGS Biological Resources Division. Her latest book is Recent Advances and Issues in Environmental Science (Oryx Press, 2000).