bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Gemlore
Authors: Morgan Diane
Published: February 2024

Every culture has developed its own lore of rocks. From the stones of Aaron's breastplate to the foundational rocks of the New Jerusalem, from the creation tales of South America to the blood stones of Burma, gems have taken their place in the mythology and magic of the human race. This book details the lore attached to particular gems. Each chapter covers a particular stone and discusses the gem's geological, historical, mythical, and legendary qualities. A valuable resource for anyone researching symbols, myth, history, or literature, this book also helps science students understand the humanistic context of gemstones and offers social studies students a fascinating view of gems in world cultures.

Each chapter covers a particular gemstone, such as diamonds, rubies, sapphires, and emeralds. It also covers organic gems, such as pearl, coral, and amber. The chapters discuss the natural history of the stone, including where the gem is found, its value, and its use; the role the gem has played in history, especially for certain famous stones such as the Hope Diamond; and the myths, powers, and legends that have attached to the stone over the centuries. Science students will appreciate the humanistic context the book offers for gemstones, while social studies students will appreciate its consideration of gems across times and places. Students of literature and the arts will welcome the book's attention to gems as symbols, and general readers will find it a fascinating guide to the lore and legend of precious stones.
The Gilded Age
Authors: Shrock Joel
Published: February 2024

The Gilded Age—the time between Reconstruction and the Spanish-American War—marked the beginnings of modern America. The advertising industry became an important part of selling the American Dream. Americans dined out more than ever before, and began to take leisure activities more seriously. Women's fashion gradually grew less restrictive, and architecture experienced an American Renaissance. Twelve narrative chapters chronicle how American culture changed and grew near the end of the 20th century. Included are chapter bibliographies, a timeline, a cost comparison, and a suggested reading list for students. This latest addition to Greenwood's American Popular Culture Through History series is an invaluable contribution to the study of American popular culture.

American Popular Culture Through History is the only reference series that presents a detailed, narrative discussion of U.S. popular culture. This volume is one of 17 in the series, each of which presents essays on Everyday America, The World of Youth, Advertising, Architecture, Fashion, Food, Leisure Activities, Literature, Music, Performing Arts, Travel, and Visual Arts
Going to School in South Asia
Authors: Gupta Amita
Published: February 2024

Afghanistan is one of many South Asian countries appearing in daily headlines, as it attempts to rebuild its society, including its educational system, after decades of war. Sri Lanka, devastated by the tsunami of 2004, and parts of Pakistan and Northern India, coping with the aftereffects of a major earthquake, are also struggling for teachers, classrooms, supplies, and a sense of normalcy for their students. This volume, part of the Schooling Around the World series, provides readers with a history and survey of education in eight of the region's countries. It examines the Primary, Secondary, and Postsecondary levels of education, identifying the types of education available (public, private, tutoring, etc), any race, gender or social class issues that impact education, and major reforms taking place. Readers will find discussions of curriculum and teaching methods most helpful, as well as a special day in the life feature, which gives a personal look at what it's like for students attending school in that country today.
The Great Satan vs. the Mad Mullahs
Authors: Beeman William O.
Published: February 2024

The United States and Iran have been estranged for 25 years. They have carried out a mutual process of demonization that is unprecedented in modern history, based on cultural hot buttons that have the power to galvanize the populations of both countries. Iranian leaders have characterized the United States as the Great Satan—an evil corruptor that pollutes society and destroys personal morality. American leaders characterize the members of the current government of the Islamic Republic of Iran as Mad Mullahs, wild-eyed and irrational. Giving a thorough account of the background of U.S.-Iranian relations, Beeman claims that the current accusations of both Iran and the United States are baseless, consisting largely of public invective and symbolic rhetoric according to their own mythologies of evil.

American leaders characterize the members of the current government of the Islamic Republic of Iran as Mad Mullahs, wild-eyed and irrational. They accuse them of fomenting the hostage crisis, in which American embassy personnel were held for 444 days at the end of the Carter administration, dealing a severe blow to U.S. national honor. The Bush administration has further accused the Iranians of being part of an Axis of Evil on the basis of their alleged support of terrorists, oppression of women and minorities, and development of nuclear weapons. Giving a thorough account of the background of U.S.-Iranian relations, Beeman claims that the current accusations of both Iran and the United States are baseless, consisting largely of public invective and symbolic rhetoric according to their own mythologies of evil.
Groundbreaking Scientific Experiments, Inventions, and Discoveries of the Ancient World
Authors: Krebs Robert E. , Krebs Carolyn A.
Published: February 2024

This reference work describes the trial-and-error experiments, discoveries, and inventions of early humans who lived from before recorded history to the Middle Ages. Krebs travels through the ancient periods of Egypt, China, and Mesoamerica, to the classical Greek and Roman periods, and finally to the Christian era, providing students with the link between science and history, while revealing information about many cultures around the world. Each entry provides the who, when, and where of each discovery, invention, or experiment. Entries include calendars, gunpowder, anesthesia, contraception, spontaneous generation, the Arctic Circle, language, and tides.

Part of the Groundbreaking Experiments, Inventions, and Discoveries through the Ages series, this book provides readers with a detailed look early humans' relation to world around them and the scientific advancements they made. It will be useful to high school and college students, teachers, and the general public interested in the history and science behind ancient civilizations.
Healthy Oils
Authors: Goldstein Myrna Chandler , Goldstein Mark A.
Published: February 2024

Used in moderation, many oils can be beneficial to one's diet and lifestyle. This book presents accurate information on more than two dozen oils, examining the health claims associated with popular oils along with the clinical research findings.

In the past, consumers were warned to avoid eating foods made with coconut oil, but more recently opinions about this oil have shifted. Many people now consider olive oil to be the most healthful—but is there truth behind this idea? Today's consumers are constantly bombarded with claims regarding consumption of oils, yet references to the scientific studies assumedly behind these statements are rare. This book dispels the common myths about oils, examines the health claims associated with popular oils and fats, and presents useful information backed by scientific findings.

The book's 47 entries cover common oils such as canola and olive oil to less commonly used oils, such as argan, avocado, and krill oil. The research results are gathered from international, peer-reviewed journals, providing readers with information from credible sources. An ideal resource for nutritionists, nutrition students, and anyone seeking scientifically backed information about the health benefits of oils, Healthy Oils: Fact versus Fiction serves as an indispensible tool for making informed health decisions.
Historically Black Colleges and Universities
Authors: Brooks F. Erik , Starks Glenn L.
Published: February 2024

This exhaustive analysis of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) throughout history discusses the institutions and the major events, individuals, and organizations that have contributed to their existence.

The oldest HBCU, Cheyney University of Pennsylvania, was founded in 1837 by Quaker philanthropist Richard Humphreys as the Institute for Colored Youth. By 1902, at least 85 such schools had been established and, in subsequent years, the total grew to 105. Today approximately 16 percent of America's black college students are enrolled in HBCUs. Historically Black Colleges and Universities: An Encyclopedia brings the stories of these schools together in a comprehensive volume that explores the origin and history of each Historically Black College and University in the United States.

Major founders and contributors to HBCUs, including whites, free blacks, churches, and states, are discussed and distinguished alumni are profiled. Specific examples of the impact of HBCUs and their alumni on American culture and the social and political history of the United States are also examined. In addition to looking at the HBCUs themselves, the book analyzes historical events and legislation of the past 174 years that impacted the founding, funding, and growth of these history-making schools.
The History of Indonesia
Authors: Drakeley Steven
Published: February 2024

Culturally and politically, Indonesia is one of the more complex countries in the world, with 336 ethnic groups speaking 583 languages and dialects. It is only recently that these people have been contained within one political framework. Throughout most of history, Indonesia's inhabitants were divided politically in many different ways as a bewildering array of kingdoms and empires rose and fell within the region. Since independence in 1945, one of the challenges Indonesia faces is constructing a unified national identity. Through six chapters, Drakeley discusses Indonesian history beginning with settlement and social development in 5,000 BCE, through the Colonial Era, the Independence Movement, the Sukarno Era, and the Soeharto Era, to the 2004 elections.

Ideal for students and general readers, the History of Indonesia is part of Greenwood's Histories of Modern Nations series. With over thirty nation's histories in print, these books provide readers with a concise, up-to-date history of countries throughout the world. Reference features include a biographical section highlighting famous figures in Indonesian history, a timeline of important historical events, a glossary of terms, and a bibliographical essay with suggestions for further reading.
The History of Iraq
Authors: Hunt Courtney
Published: February 2024

Since the early 1990s, Iraq (and its former dictator, Saddam Hussein) has been a fixture in Western media. However, few American adults know or understand the rich cultural history or the political forces that have shaped modern Iraq. As the future of Iraq is now being written, a clear understanding of the country’s history is crucial in our new global environment. Through ten narrative chapters, Hunt delves into the rich history of this land from the earliest settlements in Mesopotamia, the introduction of the Muslim faith, and the conquest of Baghdad by the Ottomans in 1534 to the institution and eventual overthrow of British control and the rise of the Ba’athist party to Saddam Hussein’s reign as president. Ideal for students and general readers, the History of Iraq is part of Greenwood’s Histories of Modern Nations series.
Hot Spot: North America and Europe
Authors: Rudolph   Jr. Joseph R.
Published: February 2024

Even in the relatively serene world of North America and Western Europe, numerous conflicts with the propensity for sustained political violence are carried out by domestic groups with alarming regularity. This in-depth volume explores conflicts and potential hot spot areas in these regions, from anti-globalization protests to immigration politics to the Basque provinces and the ETA. Coverage is divided into three regions—the established democracies of the U.S., Canada, and Western Europe; the democratizing countries of post-communist Europe; and the more volatile region encompassing Russia, the Balkans, the Causasus, and Post-Soviet Eastern Europe—for a greater understanding of geographic interrelationships. This comprehensive volume is a first-stop reference source for the most significant political, cultural, and economic conflicts in North America and Europe today.
Human Origins 101
Authors: Dunsworth Holly M.
Published: February 2024

What should the average person know about science? Because science is so central to life in the 21st century, science educators and other leaders of the scientific community believe that it is essential that everyone understand the basic concepts of the most vital and far-reaching disciplines. Human Origins 101 does exactly that. This accessible volume provides readers - whether students new to the field or just interested members of the lay public - with the essential ideas of the origins of humans using a minimum of jargon and mathematics. Concepts are introduced in a progressive order so that more complicated ideas build on simpler ones, and each is discussed in small, bite-sized segments so that they can be more easily understood.

Human Origins 101 enables students and the general public to understand the basic concepts underlying our knowledge of our evolution as a species. This small volume covers:

; A brief history of paleoanthropology, and the discovery of human's place in nature

; Evolution and the Origin of Life

; Clues to human origins from genetics

; The fossil and archaeological records

; The distinctive traits that makes us human

; The diversity of modern humans

With a bibliography, glossary, and discussion of hoaxes, fringe theories, and hot-button issues, Human Origins 101 provides the perfect starting point for anyone wishing to understand how scientists know how humans evolved.
International Handbook of Human Rights
Authors: Donnelley Jack , Howard-Hassmann Rhoda E.
Published: February 2024

This collection of essays on the current human rights climate in 19 countries includes Canada, Chile, China, Cuba, Israel, Poland, the USA, and USSR, and represents a variety of regimes, cultural traditions, and geographical areas. . . . For analysis of the facts this volume excels. A well-crafted introduction describes current debate about human rights theory and practice, traces the development of human rights instruments, and discusses problems of implementation. Strongly recommended.

Library Journal

The bulk of the scholarly literature on human rights deals with international law and politics. In contrast, this volume offers nineteen case studies of national human rights practices. Although international factors cannot be ignored, most human rights violations are perpetrated by states against their own citizens; the principal causes of the respect for and violation of human rights lie in national social and political structures.
James Patterson
Authors: Kotker Joan
Published: February 2024

Since the publication and cinematic success of 1992's Along Came a Spider, James Patterson seems to have taken up permanent residence on the bestseller lists. In the ensuing decade, his hit detective novels, with memorable nursery rhyme titles like Cat and Mouse, (1997) and Pop! Goes the Weasel (1999), came in rapid-fire succession and generated similar popularity and praise. His Alex Cross series created one of the most recognizable detectives in literature, and one of the first urban African American detectives to appeal, on such a grand scale, to audiences of all demographics. With full literary analyses of ten of his most popular works of fiction, this critical companion offers readers a chance to more fully explore Patterson's writings. Beginning with his 1976 bestseller The Thomas Berryman Number and moving chronologically to 2002's 2nd Chance, each chapter examines elements of plot, character development, theme, and critical perspectives.

A full chapter offers a delving biographical study of Patterson, including a brief timeline, that traces his early literary and personal interests and later professional achievements. Another chapter discusses the genres of detective and mystery writing, and situates Patterson 's contributions within this framework. Patterson's sociological writings are also considered. Whether for personal pursuits or school assignments, this volume provides ample insight and extensive bibliographic information on Patterson's work, including critical sources and reviews.
Jane Goodall
Authors: Greene Meg
Published: February 2024

Even as a young girl, Jane Goodall was fascinated with animals. As she grew older, she would have the opportunity to begin her research on chimpanzees under the guidance of notable anthropologist Louis Leakey. With Leakey's encouragement and support, Goodall pursued her Ph.D. and began research at the Gombe Stream Reserve in Tanzania. It was there that she would make significant discoveries regarding chimpanzee behaviors. These discoveries, along with her tireless efforts for conservation, have led to numerous awards during her career of over 40 years.

Goodall's life is revealed from her earlier days growing up in England and the influence of her mother, to her experiences living and observing chimpanzees in Africa, and her undying efforts to promote conservation of wildlife. A timeline lists important events in her life, and a bibliography of print and electronic sources provides suggested readings for students and general readers.
Latin American Science Fiction Writers
Authors: Lockhart Darrell B.
Published: February 2024

Many readers are unaware of the vast universe of Latin American science fiction, which has its roots in the 18th century and has flourished to the present day. Because science fiction is part of Latin American popular culture, it reflects cultural and social concerns and comments on contemporary society. While there is a growing body of criticism on Latin American science fiction, most studies treat only a single author or work. This reference offers a broad overview of Latin American science fiction. Included are alphabetically arranged entries on 70 Latin American science fiction writers.

While some of these are canonical figures, others have been largely neglected. Since much of science fiction has been written by women, many women writers are profiled. Each entry is prepared by an expert contributor and includes a short biography, a discussion of the writer's works, and primary and secondary bibliographies. The volume closes with a general bibliography of anthologies and criticism.
Latino Literature in America
Authors: Kevane Bridget
Published: February 2024

There is growing awareness of the tremendous impact Latino writers have had on the recent literary scene, yet not all readers have the background to fully appreciate the merits and meanings of works like House on Mango Street, Line of the Sun, Bless Me Ultima, and In the Time of Butterflies. Offering analysis of their most important, popular, and frequently assigned fictional works, this book surveys the contributions of eight notable Latino writers: Julia Alvarez, Rodolfo Anaya, Sandra Cisneros, Junot Díaz, Christina Garía, Oscar Hijuelos, Ortiz Cofer, and Ernesto Quiñonez.

Each chapter gives biographical background on the author and clear literary analysis of the selected works, including a concise plot synopsis. Delving into the question of cultural identity, each work is carefully examined not only in terms of its literary components, but also with regard to the cultural background and historical context. This book illuminates such themes as acculturation, generational differences, immigration, assimilation, and exile. Language, religion, and gender issues are explored against the cultural backdrop, along with the social impact of such historical events as Operation Bootstrap in Puerto Rico, the early days of Castro's Cuba, and the Trujillo Dictatorship in the Dominican Republic. Students and teachers will find their reading experiences of U.S. Latino works enriched with the literary and cultural perspectives offered here. A list of additional suggested reading is included.
Lynching and Vigilantism in the United States
Authors: Moses Norton
Published: February 2024

Beginning with the 1760s, when lynching and vigilantism came into existence in what is now the United States, this bibliography fills a void in the history of American collective violence. It covers over 4,200 works dealing with vigilante movements and lynchings, including books, articles, government documents, and unpublished theses and dissertations. Following a chapter listing general works, the book is arranged into four chronological chapters, a chapter on the frontier West, a chapter on anti-lynching, and chapters on literature and art.

The book opens with a chapter devoted to general works. It then includes chapters on the period from the Colonial era to the Civil War, the Civil War through 1881, and the periods from 1882 to 1916 and 1917 to 1996. The work then turns to the frontier West and to anti-lynching bills, laws, organizations, and leaders. Finally, the book includes chapters on vigilantism in literature and art.
The Mexican War
Authors: Heidler David S. , Heidler Jeanne T.
Published: February 2024

Victory over Mexico added vast western territories to America, but it also quickened the domestic slavery debate and crippled Mexico for decades, making the Mexican War one of our most ambiguous conflicts. Primary documents, biographical sketches and narrative chapters rounded out by twenty images and maps and a robust bibliography and index make this work by two of America's foremost Antebellum historians a must have to understand one of our most contentious episodes.

The United States went to war with Mexico in the spring of 1846 and by the fall of 1847 American soldiers were walking in the streets of Mexico City. The following February, Mexico was forced to sign the Treaty fo Guadalupe Hidalgo that ceded what became the U.S. Southwest and Pacific Coast. Rather than an isolated episode, the war was the culmination of a series of events that began before Mexican independence and included treaty arrangements with Spain, the revolt of Mexico's northern province of Texas, and the growing discord over American reactions to Texan independence. The legacy of the war was dire for both countries. The victorious United States commenced a bitter argument over the fate of slavery in the territories acquired from Mexico that eventually culminated in southern secession and Civil War. Defeated Mexico coped for decades with a ruined economy and a broken political system while nursing a grudge against the Colossus of the North.

This book examines these events from both the American and Mexican perspectives. Topics covered include succinct histories of the American and Mexican Republics from their colonial founding to their independence from European countries; The problems over Texas, including Anglo immigration, the Texas Revolution, and the controversies surrounding U.S. annexation of Texas; the crises instigated by American annexation of Texas brought on by the crossed purposes of American expansionist aims and domestic concerns over slavery; the northern campaigns of the war in California and New Mexico; Winfield Scott's amphibious landing and siege at Vera Cruz and his epic march to Mexico City and the collapse of the Mexican government; and finally the crafting of the peace treaty and the bitter legacies of the war for both the U.S. and Mexico. Biographical sketches of Valentin Gomez Farias, Jose Joaquin de Herrera, Sam Houston, Stephen Watts Kearny, President James Polk and other notable figures of the event provide firsthand glimpses into the motivations of the key players. Nine maps, eleven images, a detailed chronology, and a dozen vital annotated primary documents add considerable depth to the book. An extensive annotated biography and robust index complete this valuable new edition on one of Young America's most trying and contentious periods.
Nelson Mandela
Authors: Limb Peter
Published: February 2024

Everyone should know the life story of Nelson Mandela, one of the greatest leaders of all time, the first black president of South Africa, the most famous African, and a major world statesman. His inspiring life receives a fresh retelling in this new biography written especially for students and general readers. This volume is an enjoyable, authoritative, and balanced way to not only understand a great man, but also to understand a critical time in world history and race relations. Mandela's quest for racial justice for black South Africans as a leader of the African National Congress led to twenty-seven years of imprisonment. South African Apartheid consumed the attention of the world, coming to a head in the 1980s. With intense international pressure on the Apartheid government, Mandela was finally freed in 1990. Through the landmark presidency of South Africa and post Nobel Peace Prize years up until today, he has continued as a peacemaker and agent for change.

Chapter 1 covers his birth into a strong Xhosa family and clan, with cultural, historical, and geographical context, and the next chapter follows his elite education path, taking into consideration the forces and people who helped shape the future leader. Chapter 3 discusses his law practice, African National Congress work, and his first wife. Chapters 4-6 continue with his growing political involvement and family. Chapter 7 and 8 deal with the long imprisonment and then freedom. The final chapters discuss his presidency and Nobel Peace Prize and life today. A timeline, photo essay, and selected bibliography complement the narrative.
Painkillers
Authors: Stolberg Victor B.
Published: February 2024

This accessible, easy-to-read book provides readers with different perspectives on the subject of painkillers, examining their history, production, uses, and dangers.

Many different drugs are effectively used as painkillers—substances that greatly improve the quality of life for those who suffer from temporary or recurring pain. This book presents an in-depth overview of opiates, opioids, and other painkilling substances such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) that have been in use from ancient times up to the contemporary era. It also addresses the risks of painkiller use, their misuse, and potential overdose concerns.

The latest in the Story of a Drug series and written by a subject expert who has published widely on drug use and pharmacology, this book presents a brief review of the science of how different painkiller drugs work before covering these substances' respective effects and applications; the issues regarding the production, distribution, and regulation of painkiller drugs; and research findings on painkiller use, abuse patterns, addiction, and policy issues. The easy-to-understand text presents scientifically accurate information that enables readers to better understand the key role of painkillers in our 21st-century world.
Polio
Authors: Wilson Daniel J.
Published: February 2024

A compelling account of the most feared childhood disease of the 20th century and its impact on victims and medical science.

This new title in the Biographies of Disease series offers a thorough examination of medical and scientific efforts to battle polio, from the 19th-century identification of the virus to the great 20th-century epidemics, from the unprecedented campaign to find a vaccine to recent efforts to confront polio in West Africa and South Asia and eliminate it entirely.

Beyond the science, Polio looks at the effects of the disease on individuals and the United States as a whole. The book gives readers a sense of what it was like to have polio and to recover from it. It also describes how the search for answers to polio led to the rise of one of America’s premier medical charities—the March of Dimes—and how modern physical therapy practices emerged alongside the polio epidemics of the 20th century.
Politics and Population Control
Authors: Tobin Kathleen A.
Published: February 2024

What is population history about? It's about birth rates, migration, and economies. It's about families, women, and babies. It is about agricultural production, military conflict, colonies, and race. In short, population history is the human story. This book shows that population issues—numbers of people, how to feed them, their employment, racial makeup, intelligence, health, sexual behavior, and reproduction—have concerned authorities for centuries. The primary documents in this volume illustrate those concerns from the mid-18th century to the present. Provided is background information on each document and coverage of a variety of population perspectives.

All of the concerns illustrated in this volume have helped to mold population policy. From the threat of a population explosion, familiar to those growing up in the 1960s, to birth control, women's rights, and lawmakers' desires to address social ills, this book covers a wide spectrum of issues. Included is a variety of documents, such as treatises, essays, speeches, articles, and passages from books. Tobin's introductory commentary provides a framework for the documents, pointing to their intent and significance. This is the only comprehensive source of documents on population, making it a valuable resource for both professional and armchair historians.
The Isley Brothers' 3+3
Authors: McNeill Darrell M.
Published: February 2024

The Isley Brothers' 3+3, dissects The Isleys’ 50-year-old undisputed masterwork, an album that firmly established their music dynasty on a global scale, as well as heralding the boldest run of genre-defiant albums of their 65-year career. The 1973 watershed was their first multiplatinum release and is significant as a rare, crossover record by a Black act that struck a chord with urban, rock and pop consumers, despite the schisms between audiences due to bias-driven media and industry marketing.

The book looks at the album from all angles: From The Isleys’ early career to their influence on rock and rollers both Black and White, from the twists and turns of having national hits without national recognition, onto their decision to form T-Neck Records and the group’s challenges navigating a music industry that racially codified music and hampered Black artists from universal acclaim and compensations--and finally a summation of the decades following The Isley’s run and its ups and downs, with a fast-forward to where the group is now after 65 years.
Autism
Authors: Vitelli Romeo
Published: February 2024

Research suggests that about 1% of the world's population is on the autism spectrum. Discover the answers to common questions about living with neurodiversity.

Part of the Q&A Health Guides series, this book offers a broad introduction to autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The book’s 47 questions cover what ASD is and its common characteristics, the biological and environmental factors that may lead to ASD, how autism is diagnosed and managed, and how those living with ASD can reach their full potential. Autism: Your Questions Answered addresses these and other topics in a way that both celebrates neurodiversity and acknowledges the many challenges that those with ASD face.

Augmenting the main text, a collection of 5 case studies illustrate key concepts and issues through relatable stories and insightful recommendations. The common misconceptions section at the beginning of the volume dispels 5 long-standing and harmful myths about ASD, directing readers to additional information in the text. The glossary defines terms that may be unfamiliar to readers, while the directory of resources curates a list of the most useful books, websites, and other materials. Finally, whether they’re looking for more information about this subject or any other health related topic, readers can turn to the Guide to Health Literacy section for practical tools and strategies for finding, evaluating, and using credible sources of health information both on and off the Internet.
Ranking of diseases affecting the health-related quality of life of patients in Poland – a cross-sectional study
Authors: Krawczyk-Suszek Marlena , Gaweł Arkadiusz , Kleinrok Andrzej
Published: February 2024

Introduction

Epidemiology of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) provides scientific evidence indicating the appearance of dysfunction and disability in patients in various aspects and, as a result, a decrease in the quality of life (QoL). The main aim of the research was to prepare a ranking of diseases determining the degree of disease incidence quality of life (HRQoL) of patients in physical and mental dimensions.

Material and methods

The study was carried out in a group of 7,620 patients assigned to 13 groups of disease entities. The quality of life was assessed using the SF-36 questionnaire. The chances of a better QoL were assessed and the groups of diseases determining the individual QoL dimensions were indicated. Multi-stage, stratified random sampling was used in the study to obtain representatives in each diseases entities.

Results

The worst quality of life among the 13 analysed diseases was noted among cancer patients. Patients with ENT (ear, nose, throat) diseases had the highest chance of a better QoL among the studied subjects (Mental Component Summary (MCS)-OR: 27.4; Physical Component Summary (PCS)-OR: 27.9). Diseases such as cancers, diseases of the nervous system and cardiovascular diseases determined the lowest QoL in terms of MCS, PCS and ILQ (Index of Life Quality). Additionally, lower QoL in the MCS dimension was also affected by diabetes, diseases of the digestive and respiratory systems.

Conclusions

Cancer, cardiovascular disease and diseases of the nervous system are the disease entities correlated with poorer quality of life.
The nurse’s role in advance care planning
Authors: Resendes Julie
Published: February 2024

Learn how to focus these difficult conversations on patient decision making.
High school nurse camp
Authors: Halea Caudill
Published: February 2024

This innovative approach can help create a pipeline of future nurses.
Barreiras enfrentadas pelas mulheres no jornalismo esportivo
Authors: Assunção Bárbara Aline Ferreira
Published: February 2024

It can be said that in the old day’s women lived according to their husbands, taking care of their homes and children, but gradually they were conquering space and showing their true skills. In this work we study about the barriers faced and the space today conquered by them. In this context, the general objective is to analyze the insertion of women in sports journalism in Brazil. And the specifi c objectives are to identify the new possibilities of journalism in Brazil; to investigate the process of women’s insertion in sport throughout history; describe the insertion of women in sports journalism; identify the position of women in sports journalism these days. As methodology, we used bibliographic research, searching in books, magazines, articles, and sites specialized in the subject the theoretical basis necessary for the study.
Occupational Accidents as Opposed to Country’s Region: The Case of Poland Using Unsupervised Learning
Authors: PAJĘCKI Michał , KILIAŃSKA Katarzyna
Published: February 2024

Occupational accidents constitute a serious social and economic problem, causing physical and psychological pain of the casualties and their families, as well as financial losses. This article concentrates on indicating the differences in the structure of occupational accidents between different regions of the country, using Poland as an example, based on data from 2017-2021.
The Impact of New Legal Regulations on The Functioning of Businesses Based on The Example of Atomic Law in Poland
Authors: JOKIEL Maja , JOKIEL Grzegorz , BOBKIER Robert , BABCZUK Arkadiusz
Published: February 2024

The motive behind the study is the fact that there is a need for local government institutions and their management to apply the provisions of the Atomic Law Act introduced in Poland in 2020. It is the implementation of Council Directive 2013/59/Euratom. The excessive requirements combined with highly repressive legal regulations imposed by the legislator on a wide range of various organizations located in the so-called “Radon Belt” may cause a strategic shock for these organizations in the near future.
Family Businesses: An Overview of Competencies, Challenges, And Pedagogical Solutions – The Family Business Project Proposal
Authors: Dias M. Ferreira , E. Vieira E. E. Vieira , Magueta D. , Amorim M. , Madaleno M. , Alves C.
Published: February 2024

This article explores the complexities of family businesses within the global economy and introduces the Family Business Project (FAB) which aims to address the unique needs of family enterprises in Asian countries, promoting competence-based qualifications. The project involves 22 international partners and aims to create a master’s curriculum, establish centers of excellence, and develop a virtual learning environment. The master’s program, developed collaboratively by Asian and European partners, incorporates diverse perspectives and experiences, ensuring its adaptability to the specific needs of each country. The methodology of the FAB Project, including virtual study visits and collaboration among partners, is discussed. Specific outcomes, such as the development of the master’s program and the creation of centers of excellence, are highlighted. A detailed analysis of specific courses within the master’s program is provided, focusing on “Family and Family Business,” “Family Business Management,” and “Accounting and Tax Planning.” These courses aim to equip students with competencies ranging from problem-solving and communication skills to critical thinking and strategic planning. This article provides a comprehensive overview of family businesses globally, introduces the innovative FAB Project, and analyses specific courses within the master’s program, showcasing a collaborative effort to address the unique challenges and opportunities faced by family enterprises.
A New Non-linearity Correction Method for Spectrum from GIIRS onboard Fengyun-4 Satellites and its Preliminary Assessments
Authors: Guo Qiang , Liu Yuning , Wang Xin , Hui Wen
Published: February 2024

Abstract. Non-linearity (NL) correction is a critical procedure to guarantee the calibration accuracy of a spaceborne sensor to approach a good level (i.e. better than 0.5 K). Unfortunately, such a NL correction is still unemployed in spectrum calibration of Geostationary Interferometric InfraRed Sounder (GIIRS) onboard Fengyun-4A (FY-4A) satellite. Different from the classical NL correction method where the NL coefficient is estimated from out-band spectral artifacts in an empirical low-frequency region originally with prelaunch results and updated under in-orbit condition, a new NL correction method for a spaceborne Fourier transform spectrometer (including GIIRS) is proposed. Particularly, the NL parameter μ independent of different working conditions (namely the thermal fields from environmental components) can be achieved from laboratory results before launch and directly utilized for in-orbit calibration. Moreover, to overcome the inaccurate linear coefficient from two-point calibration influencing the NL correction, an iteration algorithm is established to make both the linear and the NL coefficients to be converged to their stable values with the relative errors less than 0.5 % and 1 % respectively, which is universally suitable for NL correction of both infrared and microwave sensors. By using the onboard internal blackbody (BB) which is identical with the in-orbit calibration, the final calibration accuracy for both all the detectors and all the channels with the proposed NL correction method is validated to be around 0.2–0.3 K at an ordinary reference temperature of 305 K. Significantly, in the classical method, the relative error of NL parameter immediately transmitting to that of linear one in theory which will introduce some additional errors around 0.1–0.2 K for the interfered radiance inevitably, no longer exists. Moreover, the adopted internal BB with the higher emissivity will produce the better NL correction performance in practice. The proposed NL correction method is scheduled for implementation to GIIRS onboard FY-4A satellite and its successor after modifying their possible spectral response function variations.
Building your own mountain: the effects, limits, and drawbacks of cold-water coral ecosystem engineering
Authors: van der Kaaden Anna-Selma , Maier Sandra R. , Chen Siluo , De Clippele Laurence H. , de Froe Evert , Gerkema Theo , van de Koppel Johan , Mienis Furu , Mohn Christian , Rietkerk Max , Soetaert Karline , van Oevelen Dick
Published: February 2024

Abstract. Framework-forming cold-water corals (CWCs) are ecosystem engineers that build mounds in the deep sea that can be up to several hundred metres high. The effect of the presence of cold-water coral mounds on their surroundings is typically difficult to separate from environmental factors that are not affected by the mounds. We investigated the environmental control on and the importance of ecosystem engineering for cold-water coral reefs using annotated video transect data, spatial variables (MEMs), and hydrodynamic model outputs in a redundancy analysis and with variance partitioning. Using available hydrodynamic simulations with cold-water coral mounds and simulations where the mounds were artificially removed, we investigated the effect of coral mound ecosystem engineering on the spatial configuration of reef habitat and discriminated which environmental factors are and which are not affected by the mounds. We find that downward velocities in winter, related to non-engineered environmental factors, e.g. deep winter mixing and dense-water cascading, cause substantial differences in reef cover at the broadest spatial scale (20–30 km). Such hydrodynamic processes that stimulate the food supply towards the corals in winter seem more important for the reefs than cold-water coral mound engineering or similar hydrodynamic processes in summer. While the ecosystem-engineering effect of cold-water corals is frequently discussed, our results also highlight the importance of non-engineered environmental processes. We further find that, due to the interaction between the coral mound and the water flow, different hydrodynamic zones are found on coral mounds that likely determine the typical benthic zonations of coral rubble at the mound foot, the dead coral framework on the mound flanks, and the living corals near the summit. Moreover, we suggest that a so-called Massenerhebung effect (well known for terrestrial mountains) exists, meaning that benthic zonation depends on the location of the mound rather than on the height above the seafloor or water depth. Our finding that ecosystem engineering determines the configuration of benthic habitats on cold-water coral mounds implies that cold-water corals cannot grow at deeper depths on the mounds to avoid the adverse effects of climate change.
Making sense of variation in sclerochronological stable isotope profiles of mollusks and fish otoliths from the early Eocene southern North Sea Basin
Authors: Vellekoop Johan , Vanhove Daan , Jelu Inge , Claeys Philippe , Ivany Linda C. , de Winter Niels J. , Speijer Robert P. , Steurbaut Etienne
Published: February 2024

Abstract. Stable isotope sclerochemistry of mollusks and otoliths is frequently used for the reconstruction of paleotemperature and seasonality. Constraints on the paleoecology and –environment of these organisms, and how these factors influence intra-and inter-taxon isotope variability and variation, are thus highly valuable. We measured seasonal changes in δ18O and δ13C compositions in multiple specimens of two carditid bivalve species, a turritelline gastropod species, and two species of otoliths from demersal fish, from two early Eocene (latest Ypresian, 49.2 Ma) coquinas in the inner neritic Aalter Sand Formation, located in the Belgian part of the southern North Sea Basin (paleolatitude ~41° N). Results demonstrate variability among taxa in average, amplitude and shape of intra-annual δ18O and δ13C values. This intertaxon variability is at least partly caused by growth cessation during winters in turritellines and otoliths, leading to an incomplete representation of the seasonal cycle in their growth increments, compared to carditid bivalves. Other contributing factors to isotopic variability include sedimentary transport, mobility, and the lifespan of the specimens. Specifically, ophidiid fish otolith isotope records appear to reflect environmental conditions over a wider range of habitats and environments, due to sedimentary transport and postmortem transport by free-swimming predatory fish. Our study therefore highlights the variability between different taxa and environments in the shallow marine realm, which has implications for seasonality reconstructions. We show that by studying multiple taxa and specimens in a death assemblage, a more complete spectrum of isotope variation and variability becomes apparent.
Developing water supply reservoir operating rules for large-scale hydrological modelling
Authors: Salwey Saskia , Coxon Gemma , Pianosi Francesca , Lane Rosanna , Hutton Chris , Bliss Singer Michael , McMillan Hilary , Freer Jim
Published: February 2024

Abstract. Reservoirs are key components of many water supply systems, providing functional capability to manage, and often mitigate, hydrological variability across space and time. The presence and operation of a reservoir controls the downstream flow regime, such that in many locations understanding reservoir operations is crucial to understanding the hydrological functioning of a catchment. Although substantial progress has been made in modelling reservoir operations, several key challenges remain, particularly for large-scale applications including hundreds of reservoirs. In these cases, generic and uncalibrated reservoir operating rules are often applied. However, these rules were developed from global reservoir databases that consist mostly of large irrigation reservoirs and thus are not transferable to smaller reservoirs or those fulfilling other purposes, such as water supply. An alternative option is to use a calibrated, data-driven approach but such techniques require reservoir inflows, outflows and storage data which are rarely available across hundreds of reservoirs. To overcome these problems, here we design a set of simple reservoir operating rules (with only two calibrated parameters) focused on simulating small water supply reservoirs across large scales with various types of open access data (general catchment attributes such as surface area or reservoir capacity, and flows at downstream gauges). Using Great Britain as a case study, we integrate our rules into a national-scale hydrological model and compare hydrological simulations from two modelling scenarios, with and without the new reservoir component. Our simple reservoir operating rules significantly increase model performance in reservoir-impacted catchments, particularly when the rules are calibrated individually at each downstream gauge. We also test the feasibility of using transfer functions (which transform reservoir and catchment attributes into operating rule parameters) to identify a nationally-consistent parameterisation. This works well in ~50 % of the catchments, while nuances in individual reservoir operations limit performance in others. We suggest that our approach should provide a lower benchmark for simulations in catchments containing water supply reservoirs, and that more complex methods should only be considered where they outperform our simple approach.