models or in which the driving force of the transformations of biochemically important compounds and the function of the cofactors can be explained by theoretical considerations without the boundaries between enzymatically and chemic- ally catalysed processes becoming blurred. On closer examination, this work becomes even more de- serving of the reader’s admiration and gratitude. It is an ex- cellent introduction for the advanced reader as well as a mine of information for the specialist, who will find the many references useful in dealing with his problems. The book is obviously based on a course of lectures, and anyone who is planning lectures on biochemical reaction mechanisms will find this carefully and intelligently written book full of ex- tremely valuable information. Most biochemists lack the training required to tackle, without some help, the reaction- kinetic problems that arise. Two thoroughly experienced or- ganic chemists, who are themselves working in this inter- mediate field, have now made an effort to help in this respect. The introductory chapter presents a perfectly clear and simple treatment of the basic views on acid-base catalysis. This chapter also includes a discussion of the concepts of neigh- borhood catalysis and of steric and polar effects on the hydrolysis of esters. This is the authors’ owh particular field, but this does not mean that they are any less careful or less critical in other sections. The excellent appraisal from the standpoint of the experienced theorist (they are by no means reticent with their judgement which is always fair) is parti- cularly stimulating. Much of the work in this field the laws of which are only just starting to be recognized, is very de- ductive, and this is even openly stated Excessively specula- tive mechanisms are briefly dismiesed with a reference to the literature. Further, in the first part, hydrolyses of esters and amides, the only biochemically important acyl cleavages, are discussed o n the basis of the general point of view deduced previously. This is followed by an examination of the catalytic processes in various hydrolysis and transfer systems. These are the re- actions of the thioesters and of the phosphate esters in the widest sense, and the mode of action ofthecofactors thiamine, nicotinamide, folic acid, and biotin. Model reactions that take place under extreme conditions not found in biological systems are not considered. However, model reactions that have no precise physiological analogues, but that can contri- bute to an understanding of biochemical processes, are oc- casionally discussed. Though these two volumes already con- tain enough material with which the reader must become

thoroughly acquainted, one still looks forward to the propos- ed third volume, which is to contain the mechanisms of the B12 coenzymes, the flavins, and the ribonucleases.

The thorough and critically compiled bibliography covers a wide field, ranging from a short historical introduction to completely new works. The presentation of the books is ex- cellent and the printing of the text and of the formulae is out- standing and free from errors. The only unwelcome feature is the high price of the work, which can otherwise be recom- mended to anyone who is studying, or who wishes to study, enzyme mechanisms. L. Jaenicke [NB 587 IE]

Adhesion and Adhesives. By R. S. R . Parker and P. Taylor. Pergamon Press. Oxford-London-Edinburgh-New York- Toronto-Paris-Frankfurt 1966. 1st Edit., vi, 142 pages, numerous figures, 25s.

A great deal is still unknown about the process of adhesion, despite much fundamental research which has been conduct- ed in an effort to answer the many open questions.

The authors begin with a historical survey ranging from the earliest adhesive processes of the distant past to the modern processes used, e.g., in light-construction techniques, and including the technical principles underlying these processes. They then turn to the process of adhesion itself, which they describe as an exchange of secondary valences (van dei Waals forces) and define accordingly. Other views such as the dif- fusion theory are discussed, but the magnitude of the adhesive force is mainly determined by wetting. Further chapters deal with the joint surface and its preparation as well as with the production and testing of adhesives and adhesive joints. The chemical and physical properties of polymers are then dis- cussed, and the sounces and applications of the principal adhesives are described in detail. Further sections deal with specific adhesives, such as the isocyanates and the cyanacryl- ates, and with their chemistry. The book closes with a discussion of the cementing of rein- forced plastics and of adheswe systems of various composi- tions. Adhesion to metals is mentioned only briefly.

Nonetheless, the book as a whole gives an impression of completeness, and provides an insight into a many-sided technology with a solid scientific foundation.

A . Matting [NB 611 IEI

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Angew. Chern. internat. Edit. 1 VoI. 6 (1967) No. I I 101 1