Nonlinear dynamics in physiology and medicine. (Q1413045)

This book is an excellent addition to the literature. Perhaps its greatest value is its appeal to a wide class of prospective readers who may range from the biologist (mathematician) who has a mild interest in mathematics (biology) to the researcher who works in one of the fields discussed. The background needed by the reader should perhaps be a little wider than the authors suggest, but there are numerous references to more detailed treatments. So the novice needs not feel stranded. The first chapter is a brief but splendid historical account of 20\,th century work. Chapters 2, 3, 5, and 6 are primarily mathematical but refer more or less directly to examples in biology: introduction to dynamics, bifurcations, resetting and entraining rhythms, and effects of noise on nonlinear dynamics. Chapters 4, 7, 8, 9, 10 are concerned with specific topics in biology in which mathematical descriptions play an important role: excitable cells, modeling cardiac rhythms (especially the mechanism of reentry), cell replication, pupil light reflex, and human tremor. There is a large bibliography, and there are analytical and computer exercises at the end of each chapter.