Book Reviews

Book Reviews

Social Psychology and Counseling: Issues and Applications

Counseling psychology has changed significantly during the last century. This book has recognized these changes and will help teachers, providers and researchers prepare future counseling psychologists for what they will need to know. Future counseling psychologists must be able to have more than the skills needed to help individuals develop mental well-being, a concept of self and an ability to function in everyday life. Counseling psychologists will need to understand how environmental influences such as cultural, gender and lifestyle issues shape one’s experiences. They must know how issues such as race, poverty, sexual orientation and climate change relate to helping those with whom they work develop the ability to function effectively. Moreover, counseling psychologists must be prepared to respond when these cultural issues became social movements and to work with topics such as diversity, social justice and advocacy. – Steven J. Danish, Ph.D. ABPP, President, Life Skills Associates, LLC, Professor Emeritus of Psychology, Virginia Commonwealth University, USA

I believe it will be a wonderful companion for several classes in a graduate counseling program (master’s level): Human Development, Theories of Personality, Counseling Techniques and Skills. In my opinion, having students learn about particular social issues and personality variables and the associated social psychological research allows them to increase their ability to contextualize their clients and understand the socio-cultural and individual complexities of working with the populations/clinical issues included in the book. Having contributors who are involved in teaching, research, and practice is another strength of this volume. – Kathryn L. Norsworthy, Ph.D., Professor and Licensed, Psychologist, Rollins College Graduate Studies in Counseling, USA

For more information about this book, please click here.

Research Advances in Dynamic Light Scattering

“This book is an exceptional compilation of the key fundamentals and applications of dynamic light scattering from both material characterization and biomedical perspectives. In the first section, it captures the emerging trends and applicability of light scattering in nanotechnology and in establishing a metric for nanoparticles. This book not only focuses on the traditional nanoparticles, but highlights the recent findings on more complex nanostructures. Usefulness of dynamic light scattering in assessing the self-assembly and size of these next-generation nanostructures such as stimuli-responsive di-block copolymers is represented in an excellent fashion. The second section of this book is an extraordinary presentation of the immense capabilities of dynamic light scattering in the field of pharmaceuticals and biologically derived materials such as natural phytochemicals. It also highlights the future applications of this technique. This book is exceptional and unlike any other textbooks on dynamic light scattering because it couples the immense potential of dynamic light scattering technique in two major fields – nanotechnology and biology. It will provide the students and researchers of the field with the complete fundamentals of dynamic light scattering as well as the novel applications. Therefore, I highly recommend Research Advances in Dynamic Light Scattering for our students, researchers, and faculty.” – Dr. Soubantika Palchoudhury, Assistant Professor and graduate co-ordinator, Chemical Engineering, University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, USA

“Jaison and Michael have compiled an important resource for the recent trends in dynamic scattering studies. This well-written edited book provides coverage of the working principle, the mathematical models and the different types of DLS analysis methods as well as its application in various fields. Anyone involved in the characterization of nanomaterials, pharmaceuticals to environmental studies and protein analysis will treasure this book because it provides another avenue to learn and understand the in-depth knowledge on DLS.” – John Lau Sie Yon, Department of Chemical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Science, Curtin University Malaysia, Sarawak, Malaysia

“The book Research Advances in Dynamic Light Scattering edited by Dr. Jaison and Prof. Michael Danquah is a well-compiled book which covers almost each aspect of DLS technique from theory, principle, distinct equations to understand this technique in depth and its application in various field. Each chapter in this book adds on to the knowledge about DLS technique and provides immense details to use this technique in their research. This book covers the application of this technique in both material science and biological science, and thus, I believe the book will be an essential guide for researchers working in these fields, especially with micro and nanosized particles. Congratulations to both the editors for compiling chapters on different aspects of DLS from experienced researchers in the field and compile them chronologically for understanding this technique for a range of audience – from undergraduates to professors and scientists.” – Dr. Ahmed Barhoum, Researcher at European Institute of Membranes, University of Montpellier and Lecturer (tenured) of Nanotechnology at Chemistry Department, Helwan University, Egypt

For more information about this book, please click here.

An Essential Guide to Fuzzy Systems

“The book is original and interesting. The authors prove to be mastering the subject of fuzzy information processing and intelligent algorithms. Apart from the fuzzy sets theory it is also related to the following research areas: computational thinking systems, intelligent computing, recent trends of machine learning and Artificial Intelligence techniques.” READ MORE…Professor Abdel-Badeeh M. Salem, Professor of Computer Science, Founder & Head of Artificial Intelligence and Knowledge Engineering Research Labs, Faculty of Computer and Information Sciences, Ain Shams University, Abbasia, Cairo, Egypt

For more information about this book, please click here.

Bring My Smile Back: Working with Unhappy Children in Education

“Children’s wellbeing and happiness have become matters of global concern. This important and exciting collection edited by Dr Maria Efstratopoulou and Dr Maria Sofologi brings together the work of an impressive team of international social science scholars and practitioners to address these challenges. Its timing could hardly be better!” – Professor Scott Fleming, Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Bishop Grosseteste University, Lincoln, UK

“A brilliant book for professionals in education who are interested in happiness and wellbeing. This book doesn’t shy away from the challenges our children face in their day to day lives, it embraces working together collaboratively to concentrate on emotions first which enables learning to follow.” – Mel Standbrook, Director at Go Empower & Chair of Governors

For more information about this book, please click here.

Second Language Acquisition: Methods, Perspectives and Challenges

“An important and much-needed contribution to the field, this book helps fill a ubiquitous gap: what we know and what we think we know based on empirical research about educating English learners. This book provides insight into research across an impressive array of topics, each one pertinent to today’s schools. It is a must-read for educators working with English learners. “ – Jana Echevarria, Ph.D., Professor Emerita at California State University, Long Beach, USA

“You will be glad you read Second Language Acquisition: Methods, Perspectives, and Challenges the next time you find yourself having to field a question about why it takes recent generations of English learners so long to learn English. As the acquisition of English language has become increasingly conflated with criteria for academic success, current generations of English learners face unique learning demands not encountered by their predecessors. This book’s collection of chapters uses varied research methodologies and sophisticated statistical methods to shine a much-needed light on the complexities of learning a second language for academic purposes.” – María S. Carlo, Ph.D., Associate Professor of Child and Family Studies, College of Behavior and Community Sciences, University of South Florida, USA

“This dynamic collection of chapters and content-related studies provides a nuanced understanding of why English learners struggle to acquire second language proficiency and domain knowledge simultaneously. The insights provided around the multi-dimensional factors (e.g., the language of math, science, and social studies, as well as the complexity of the mathematics, science, and social studies registers) that contribute to English learners’ struggles are long overdue and often overlooked in pre-service teacher education programs. Hence, this text is essential reading for teacher educators who are charged with preparing the next generation of teachers for a diverse population of English learners.” – Sharolyn D. Pollard-Durodola, Professor, English Language Learning Program, Department of Early Childhood, Multilingual, and Special Education, University of Nevada Las Vegas, USA

For more information about this book, please click here.

The Last Farewell Embrace: Spirituality, Near-Death Experiences, and Other Extraordinary Events among Nurses

For nurses, doctors, and other medical practitioners this book is a ‘must-read’. Those who have faced a confrontation with death and the grieving process firsthand will also find this book well worth the time. Finally, anyone with a general interest in transpersonal psychology, transformation, and the life-death process will find it worthwhile acquainting themselves with this research” READ MORE…Dr. Alexander De Foe, Psychology, School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, Melbourne, Australia

This book is a very welcome addition to the literature and I hope it is read and understood by all healthcare professionals especially those involved in end of life care. READ MORE…Dr. Penny Sartori, Senior Lecturer in Adult Nursing, Swansea University, Wales, UK

For more information about this book, please click here.

Structure of Matter

This book is unique in the field of Quantum Mechanics and its applications. It is really different from others. It is comprehensive and written with an attractive personal style. In particular, key issues related to Quasi-Classical Quantum Mechanics are treated with rigor and mathematical elegance (consider the roots of Quantum Mechanics). Subjects as wave functions, scattering , measurement, as well as applications to Condensed Mattter Physics, Atomic Physics, and Molecular Physics are tackled very satisfactorily. In particular, the Thomas-Fermi theory, metallic cohesion, Berry phase, and a new type of inter-atomic potentials are examined exhaustively. In relation to these potentials, the theory presented by the author is the only theory of this kind. In addition, the quantum theory of radiation and problems upon tunneling are studied in a singular way. The book in question improves substantially the state of the art, it is technically correct, and is well referenced. I recommend publication. – Dr. Maria-Angeles Grado-Caffaro, Scientific Consultant, partner at Sapienza-Studies, Spain

For more information about this book, please click here.

Creativity in Occupational Therapy: Person, Process, Product

“One of a kind, fresh perspective on creativity! Creativity in Occupational Therapy: Person, Process, Product provides a comprehensive, evidence-based exploration of creativity. As a multi-dimensional concept, creativity is examined as both a personal characteristic and one that is critical to the occupational therapy process. Dr. Oven states, “Creativity can be found in the way we approach the world, reason, occupy ourselves, develop abilities, and prepare for the future.” (p. 32). Numerous definitions and theories of creativity are extensively discussed based on current literature and Dr. Oven’s research. The most significant contribution is Dr. Oven’s broad consideration of the use of creativity in occupational therapy practice. She discusses the traditional use of creative occupations as a therapeutic modality which is supported in the World Health Organizations’ (WHO) recent report providing evidence that participation in creative arts promotes physical and mental health and prevents ill health (Fancourt & Finn, 2019). A significant contribution, however, is Dr. Oven’s expanded view of the importance of creativity in the therapeutic process for both the therapist and the client. For therapists, creativity promotes open-mindedness, original ideas, and the ability to solve problems. As a part of client-centered care, Dr. Oven acknowledges the importance of incorporating the client’s creativity in therapy to promote successful outcomes. She also explores how features of the work environment can foster or hinder creativity in practice. The monograph closes with a synthesis of her original mixed methods research on factors influencing creativity in occupational therapy. In sum, Creativity in Occupational Therapy: Person, Process, Product provides a unique and valuable contribution to occupational therapy and the general public’s understanding and use of creativity in daily life.” – Susan Bazyk, PhD, OTR/L, FAOTA, Professor Emerita, Occupational Therapy, Cleveland State University, USA

“The content of the present book is highly applicable to real life situations of occupational therapists and at the same time rather innovative, as it encroaches on one of the least researched fields in social and health sciences, on the occupational therapy process and the role of creativity in it. The key contribution of the book is the cutting-edge approach to the creativity of occupational therapists in the occupational therapy process from a theoretical and empirical perspective. The author discusses in depth the creative process of occupational therapist in occupational therapy treatment, and the factors that trigger creativity, influence its course, stimulate and / or hinder it. The book offers an overview of synthesized and pulled key concepts on creativity from a variety of sources to provide a comprehensive resource for scientists and practitioners in the field. To achieve that, the author draws on recent interdisciplinary theoretical backgrounds (philosophical, psychological, sociological, medical, occupational therapy), available in scientific and professional literature worldwide. Furthermore, the book presents research tools for a novel assessment of creativity in occupational therapy, which makes the book both, relevant and practical.” – Dr. Bojana Lobe, Assistant Professor, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Ljubljana

“This manuscript is a timely, fresh and exciting read that addresses several critical questions in the field of occupational therapy that are connected with the human, its vulnerability, and the need for a purpose-filled existence as well as with our shared humanity that should mark the professional relationship between the therapist and the client. This humanistic approach can only be achieved by supporting the client’s abilities, initiating new possibilities and leaning on the creative potential of a therapist who is sensitive to the needs of others. READ MORE…Dr. Zalka Drglin, National Institute of Public Health, Ljubljana, Slovenia

For more information about this book, please click here.

A University Assisted Community Schools Approach to Understanding Social Problems and Social Justice 

“This book is written for both experienced scholar-activists and those new to the field of scholar activism. With over 40 years of experience, the author shares his most notable successes and failures, some deeply personal, others representative of larger systemic issues. In all of his successes and failures, there were lessons to be learned. The author embeds his theoretical analysis within a rich, cultural context that is littered with personal anecdotes, Bob Dylan songs, and some of his favorite fiction and non-fiction authors. For example, he describes one notable failure in a section entitled “To get [sic] stuck inside a mobile with the Memphis blues again.” In this chapter the author describes his foray into an urban, politically contested school debate that seemed to play out along racial and class lines. His team – an undergraduate student from Memphis, a graduate student, and a state representative – were all deeply committed to the community school model but soon realized they had failed to adequately consider the legacy of segregation. The lesson: context matters. A number of successes provide readers with the foundational and conceptual frameworks that demonstrate the utility of community schools. Communities and campus partners give each school a unique character that affects programming, goals, and engagement with children and their families. Two university-assisted community schools in Knoxville, Tennessee illustrate this point. The lesson: context matters. The social, political, and economic climate in which schools exist punctuate the need for community schools that reflect the people of the communities in which they are embedded. Community schools will continue to fill the gaps left by compromised systems, which deny full educational opportunities to marginalized groups. This book provides a lens by which this model can be further understood and replicated.” – Sylvia D. Turner, Ph.D., Associate Director, Haslam Scholars Program, The University of Tennessee, USA

For more information about this book, please click here.

Racecadotril: An Effective Anti-Diarrheal Drug

“Diarrhea, whose morbidity is still a non-solved problem, still creates a great deal of anxiety among parents who look for something to stop the disease as quickly as possible. Racecadotril fulfills all the characteristics that an ideal antidiarrheal drug should have, as described by Dr. Robert Edelman in 1985, when adequate antidiarrheal drugs were not yet available. Taken by mouth, racecadotril is rapidly absorbed in the intestine and found subsequently in large quantities in the submucosal structures of the intestinal wall. It inhibits the enkephalinase activity, protects enkephalins from inactivation, reduces cytosolic cyclic AMP level, and rapidly controls hypersecretion of water and electrolytes without affecting the intestinal motility. Furthermore, it does not cross the blood-brain barrier and thus has no sedative effects. This book, edited by Dr. Marco Manfredi, is a comprehensive review of racecadotril. A group of experts in the field reviews its history, pharmacologic properties, mode of action, and results of clinical trials conducted to prove its efficacy and safety. It is particularly remarkable to have among the authors, Dr. Schwartz and Dr. Lecomte, who were the developers of this drug. Time will prove that this book is an excellent addition to the bookshelf of those who have an interest in the field of diarrheal diseases and its treatment.” – Eduardo Salazar-Lindo, MD, Professor of Pediatrics, Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia

For more information about this book, please click here.