Computer Programming in Quantitative Biology

Computer Programming in Quantitative Biology covers the general background of Fortran coding and the more sophisticated computer programs likely to be encountered in quantitative biology. It discusses the application of over 40 appropriate and easily adaptable programming techniques to problems of major biological interest. Organized into 15 chapters, the book starts by providing an introductory outline of computer structure and function needed to appreciate many basic programming procedures. A chapter discusses some general principles underlying Fortran coding and the use of digital computers, with emphasis on major features of Fortran IV. Other chapters present short introduction to the statistical or mathematical techniques in each of the main sections under which program are described. These chapters also provide some aspects of matrix algebra that are essential for serious statistical programming and offer a general guide to efficiency in programming. All complete programs are accompanied by a flowchart and a detailed discussion. This book is a valuable source of information for biologists, computational biologists, research biologists, undergraduate students, and advanced or specialized students of biology.