Simple Gifts : Four Heartwarming Christmas Stories : Just Curious / Miracles / Change of Heart / Double Exposure

Book Description

Bestselling authors Jude Deveraux and Judith McNaught shine with love's magic in this wonderful collection. Here are their most dazzling Christmas tales -- the perfect treat for every romantic at heart....

SIMPLE GIFTS

In the snow-covered hills of Virginia, a young widow finds that miracles really do come in the least expected packages, in "Just Curious." "Change of Heart," set in modern-day Colorado, is the touching story of a clever twelve-year-old who plays matchmaker for his bighearted, impractical mother.

Regency London comes to life in "Miracles," the enchanting tale of a world-weary lord -- and an outrageous proposal. In "Double Exposure," a determined young woman photographs a magnificent wedding at a reclusive tycoon's Newport estate, and manages to unlock the secrets of a man's heart.

Customer Reviews:

Simply Enjoyable!.......2007-08-15

SIMPLE GIFTS is a delightful collection of short stories by beloved authors! Very Enjoyable!

Four Heartwarming Christmas Stories : Just Curious / Miracles / Change of Heart / Double Exposure.......2007-01-10

Great book - couldn't put it down.

Nicki's heart.......2006-09-28

I only bought this book because of Judith's McNaught short on Nicholas Duville's love story, All I ever did through the piece was sigh and cuddle the book to my heart, and continued reading page after page, I cried I smiled, I felt my heart bloom with every kiss or embrace the characters had...and this is only a FICTIONAL story!! GOD! I miss Mcnaught!!! I miss her so much! So much that I want to wringe her neck for discarding the gift she had in making BEAUTIFUL historicals! she was a legend! and still is! does anybody know's what happened to her?! Honestly!
I adored her story with Nicki, Julliana was the classic Mcnaught Herione...perfection! But what I liked most about her was that she wasted no time in making things interesting, I related with Nicki so much through out the story he was always the "Friend" to the women he was interested in, interesting women on the whole seemed to back away from him and run into the arms of other men...and that was TWO books straight! good thing it didn't end there and had him star here as a hero for once! I loved him since Whitney, my love...I adore him now! the bit with Julianna excusing herself from Nicki saying "Goodafternoon,Mr....er....Deveraux." I laughed so much it was so clever to put Jude Deveraux's name in there...hehehe...

I recommend anything by Judith Mcnaught although for me I have no interest in her contemporary novels...its her historicals you should be looking out for and their the following:
-Almost Heaven
-Something Wonderful
-Once and Always
-A Kingdom Of Dreams
-Whitney, My Love
-Until you
-And lastly this book Simple Gifts (Nicki's story -Miracles-)

I'm sure your going to enjoy all of them! :)

A moment of evasion.......2005-10-09

I have bought this book to read two little novels written by J.McNaught which are not translated into french (I am French).
Despite of my very poor english, it was a very good moment of evasion and the great sense of humour of J.McNaught was still there. The stories were good but definitively too short...

Quick reads by the divas of romance!.......2005-08-12

Four quick reads that are perfect for your wait at the doctor's office or waiting at your child's sports practice.

"Just Curious" is a touching tale about a woman who is a widow and stuggling to move on with her life alone. Her boss makes her a business proposition that she can not refuse, not realizing that it will lead to true love.

Some reviewers were disappointed with "Miracles", the story of Nicki and Juliana. Nicki was such an intriguing secondary character in Whitney My Love and Until You (two of Judith McNaught's best sellers), that I can see why fans wanted him to have a longer story.

Those of you who follow the Montgomery/Taggart series written by Jude Deveraux will be interested in "Change of Heart", a story about Frank Taggart. This is a story of mature love between a struggling single mom and a wealthy businessman. Unbelievably, a young boy orchestrates the meeting of these two unlikely characters and it really is a heart-warming story.

"Double Exposure" is a prequel to Remember When written by Judith McNaught. It is Corey and Spence's story. I liked it because I was familiar with the characters. It is an interesting, if not bizarre, wedding.

These short stories may be a good way to become acquainted with these fabulous authors if you have not read any of their longer romance novels. Avid McNaught/Deveraux fans will feel right at home with them!

Average customer rating:

Best and now up-to-date review of a complex subject (2nd ed)
Excellent resource
The best source for the latest science & policy info on MCS!

Chemical Exposures Low Levels and High
Nicholas A. Ashford , and Claudia S. Miller
Manufacturer: Van Nostrand Reinhold
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Hardcover

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ASIN: 0442004990

Book Description

Chemical Exposures: Low Levels and High Stakes explains how day-to-day variations in chemical exposure may cause unusual and seemingly unpredictable symptoms, including many that have been termed psychosomatic in the past. It describes how everyday, low-level chemical exposures may cause fatigue, memory impairment, headaches, mood changes, breathing difficulties, digestive problems, and a host of chronic unexplained illnesses including chronic fatigue syndrome, Gulf War syndrome, and sick building syndrome. The authors are the first writers to clearly describe and document the process of adaptation, a concept that provides a rational and scientific basis for understanding these symptoms. In the Second Edition of this professionally acclaimed work, the authors offer evidence for an emerging new theory of disease-toxicant-induced loss of tolerance-which may have far-reaching implications for medicine, public health, and environmental policy. Based on a report commissioned by the New Jersey Department of Health that won the World Health Organization's Macedo Award, Chemical Exposures is the most comprehensive book ever written on sensitivity to low level chemical exposure and the many health effects associated with it. This work clarifies the nature of chemical sensitivity, shows how it differs from traditional allergies and toxicity, and suggests how federal and state governments can help those who are affected. The book identifies four major groups of people with hypersensitivity to low levels of chemicals: occupants of tight buildings, industrial workers who handle chemicals, residents of communities exposed to toxic chemicals, and individuals with random and unique exposures to various chemicals. The fact that similar symptoms are being reported by members of these demographically diverse groups not only points to a serious problem, it may also contribute to a better understanding of chemical sensitivity. Included are a number of features that will be invaluable to health professionals: * Clear, concise explanations of technical material * The most extensive bibliography to date on the subject * Tables contrasting different medical approaches * Descriptions of recent research and proposed mechanisms * An annotated bibliographical appendix highlighting illnesses that have been linked to environmental exposures * Policy recommendations for federal and state governments "Clinicians and policymakers would do well to read and heed the advice of this book."-Journal of the American Medical Association "Clinicians, researchers, and policymakers in this field would be well advised to read this landmark book."-American Public Health Association Newsletter "A milestone in the evolution of multiple chemical sensitivity."-Chemical and Engineering News ".groundbreaking and accessible.balanced and scholarly.essential reading for risk assessors, physicians, psychologists, attorneys concerned with toxic torts, public health officials, regulators, government decisionmakers, medical and environmental researchers, as well as laypersons."-Journal of Risk Analysis

Customer Reviews:

Best and now up-to-date review of a complex subject (2nd ed).......1999-05-04

excellent review of the available data on this difficult subject. Lots of evidence based data and peer reviewed literature is used as the basis of discussion of this controversial subject. Highly recommended although it may also raise more questions that it answers. The authors are highly qualified (Prof at MIT with experience in environmental affairs and practicing MD allergist)

Excellent resource.......1998-06-09

Of all that I have read on the subject of Multiple Chemical Sensitivity (MCS), this is by far the most cogent, balanced, organized, and complete summary of information on this mysterious medical phenomenon. I would recommend it to anyone who suffers from MCS, TILT, CFIDS, or any of the constellation of related supposedly "psychological" symptomologies, including depression, anxiety disorder, or bi-polar illness. Read it BEFORE you spend another nickel on supplements, vitamins, or anti-depressant drugs!

The best source for the latest science & policy info on MCS!.......1998-01-24

The 2nd edition of Chemical Exposures reviews all sides of the MCS debate--with much new information on scientific and policy developments since the first edition. I recommend it highly for patients, physicians, and policy makers. --Albert Donnay, Exec. Director, MCS Referral & Resources

Average customer rating:

useful, disturbing data on MCS
MCS
Defining Multiple Chemical Sensitivity - CREDIBILITY issue!
MCSS? Please read this book.
This is a powerful tool for education and activism.

Defining Multiple Chemical Sensitivity

Manufacturer: McFarland & Company
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Library Binding

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ASIN: 0786404132

Book Description

The number of people suffering from Multiple Chemical Sensitivity (MCS) is greater than the number suffering from AIDS, yet the general public and the medical community know very little about the disease. More and more people are disabled daily, despite the fact that the condition does not have to occur. In Part One of this work, experts review the research into the disease, along with treatment strategies. Part Two examines the legal recourses available to MCS sufferers, such as workers' compensation claims and product liability suits. How the medical community has often worked against MCS sufferers is the focus of Part Three, demonstrating that medical opposition to the disease is unfounded. The editor, an MCS sufferer, details her own case in Part Four.

Customer Reviews:

useful, disturbing data on MCS.......2005-09-22

This is an excellent book that all physicians should own. It's unquestionably an invaluable resource for MCS sufferers.

Matthews edited the book into four sections. Two of the sections have multiple chapters.

SECTION I: MEDICAL INFORMATION

Chapter 1. Chemical Sensitivity: A Psychological Perspective by Eileen R. McCarty (clinical psychologist)

Chapter 2. MCS: Trial by Science by Donald L. Dudley, M.D.

Chp. 3. SPECT Brain Scanning After Chemical Injury by Gunnar Heuser, M.D.

4. Porphyria, Cytochrome P-450, and Toxic Exposure by Bonnye Matthews

SECTION II: Legal Information

5. No Balm in Gilead: Why Worker's Compensation Fails Workers in a Toxic Age by Randolph Gordon

SECTION III: Science and the Literature

6. Junk Science by Bonnye Matthews

7. Medical Literature and MCS: An analysis of Seven Papers by Donald Dudley

SECTION IV: Personal Experience with MCS

8. My Experience with Chemical Sensitivity by Bonnye Matthews

REVIEW OF EACH CHAPTER:

Chapter 1: Chemical Sensitivity: A Psychological Perspective by Eileen R. McCarty (clinical psychologist)

Despite what the title might suggest, McCarty's chapter does not represent or defend a psychogenic perspective of MCS. Rather, the chapter has three goals.

The first goal is to introduce readers to the problem of chemical industries focusing narrowly on the benefits of synthetic chemicals while ignoring the potential health threats they cause and trigger.

The second goal is to explain why many doctors interpret MCS symptoms as psychogenic.

Finally, it delves into a very brief and lacking summary of research that had recently been published, such as isolated porphyrin abnormalities of porphyrin metabolism, Callender's SPECT scans, and DHEA's potential in MCS.

Regarding DHEA, McCarty said, "An [MCS-afflicted] individual will still likely react to chemical exposure, but his or her overall quality of life may be enhanced." (Page 7)

I like McCarty's description of the complexity of MCS research: "Sometimes the search for answers leads only to further questions; passing through one door, we discover more doors waiting to be opened." (Ibid = Also on page 7)

Chapter 2: "MCS: Trial by Science" by Donald L. Dudley, M.D

Donald Dudley's chapter focuses on his unique research on MCS.

Dudley studied the P300 brain wave (Auditory and Visual) of twenty patients with MCS (under Cullen's definition) before and, during and after exposure to common and everyday chemicals (in an everyday amount). Upon exposure the P300 decreased significantly in 100% of the subjects, two of which developed occipital seizures. (Page 24)

Most important is the fact that the P300 is not affected by emotions/perception/etc. Any changes to this brain wave upon challenge must be the result of organic mechanisms.

Dudley proposed that the olfactory system generates too much NMDA activity and that this activity might, at the least, contribute to the symptoms. (Subsequent articles by WSU biochemist Martin Pall show a role for NMDA activity)

The only problem is that Dudley hasn't attempted to replicate his findings. Even more remarkable is that no one else has attempted to replicate his findings. That is astonishingly stupid!

Chapter 3: SPECT Brain Scanning After Chemical Injury by Gunnar Heuser

This chapter focuses on one of Heuser's studies, in which MCS patients' brains were scanned with SPECT technology before and after exposure to chemicals.

He found that most of the MCS patients had decreased blood flow to certain areas of the brain upon being exposed to perfume (Pages 27-30).

But several other and better brain imaging studies have been published since the book's release, and two of them were by Heuser. The book should be updated to include this information.

Chapter 4: Porphyria, Cytochrome P-450, and Toxic Exposure by Bonnye Matthews

This is a fascinating chapter, but not perfect. Matthews noted that there are 3,000+ synthetic chemicals known to be porphyrinogenic (meaning they trigger porphyria attacks). These chemicals include those in perfumes, colognes, pesticides, air fresheners, etc.

This chapter posits an MCS model based on the finding that multiple chemicals trigger porphyria attacks, which induce the same symptoms seen in MCS flare-ups.

I'm disappointed that Matthews seemingly misinterpreted the study she cited by the Mayo Clinic. The study did NOT show that the MCS patients had porphyria. Instead the patients had isolated abnormalities in their porphyrin metabolism (which can be explained by two of the leading theories of etiology/causation).

Matthews even bizarrely asserted that the porphyria model was the first MCS model. But Iris Bell proposed a model in 1975. Maybe I misunderstood Matthews though.

Anyway, this is still a very good chapter. I cited its lengthy discussion in my own article.

Chapter 5: No Balm in Gilead: Why Worker's Compensation Fails Workers in a Toxic Age by Randolph Gordon

I won't comment on this chapter because I have not read it.

Chapter 6: Junk Science by Bonnye Matthews

This chapter clarifies the meaning of both "science" and "the scientific method." It explains the grueling process that should be-but rarely is-used to ensure the accuracy and objectivity of a study.

Matthews explains why "Junk Science" is an oxymoron that should never be applied to the position that MCS is organic.

Chapter 7: Medical Literature and MCS: An analysis of Seven Papers by Donald Dudley

This chapter is enraging, enlightening and disturbing. It is Dudley's critique of 7 of the top studies supporting the psychogenic view.

In these seven studies there were a total of 334 patients studied. But no more than thirty-three of these patients actually had MCS. In five of the studies, none of the patients had MCS. Of the remaining two, in one study, eighteen out of forty-one had MCS, and in the other study no more than fifteen out of fifty-three had MCS. Thus, it is fair to state that the studies have nothing to do with MCS. (Pages 111-130)

I've included this and other criticisms in my own article.

Chapter 8: My Experience with Chemical Sensitivity by Bonnye Matthews

Matthews' personal story is the cherry on the ice cream. I'm sure it has induced immense anger in doctors and patients. It really infuriated me!

Her story demonstrates deliberate efforts by both the government and the medical establishment to ignore MCS and suppress research on it. After reading the chapter it will be difficult to view the integrity of the US medical establishment in the same way.

NATURAL MEDICINE AND MCS:

I agree with another reviewer here that the book should have discussed natural medicine. I think Matthews was so concerned about pleasing cynical doctors that she didn't want to turn them away with a discussion of natural medicine.

But the medical literature is filled with evidence of natural medicine's beneficial affects on MCS. The book should be updated to include this natural medicine data and much more.

SUMMARY:

The book's not perfect and has its own share of flaws. Nevertheless, it is unquestionably one of the best books on the topic. It contains very useful scientific data, objective reasoning and evaluation, and a lot of compassion. It has the power to move many people and I am sure it has and will continue to do so.

The book's overall message, that MCS should not be ignored and cannot be forever, is clear and powerful. Without a doubt, this book is a riveting, stomach-churning chock full of disturbing data.

-- Pat Casanova

PS. There are other data in the book that I didn't mention. You'll just have to buy it if you're interested! :)

MCS.......2003-08-01

Bonnye Matthews has obviously worked very hard to bring us this summary of biochemical science and medicine research on the topic of Multiple Chemical Sensitivity (MCS). For people with MCS or who want to learn about it strictly from the point of view of the biochemical system in the research-outcome model, this is an invaluable book. If your priority is the much over-rated "scientific proof" that MCS is real and not psychosomatic, because you can't think outside that box, or perhaps more importantly, if you need that sort of documentation to present to people who think that way and only that way, this book will speak to you. There is much of value, I would imagine, for someone attempting to navigate the system for medical benefits, disability, or for other legal situations.
However, as a practitioner who specializes in the SUCCESSFUL TREATMENT OF MCS, I found this book wearisome and depressing. I was hoping to find some cutting-edge theory. There is little theory in this book, and nothing ground-breaking, inspiring or exciting. In fact, it is extremely depressing. There is nothing here to challenge the mainstream view that MCS is untreatable. As usual, Medical Dieties decide if they can't treat something then nobody else can. Certainly MCS is tantamount in pointing out the errors of "better living through chemistry" thinking. If a person can't handle exposure to chemicals and the only medicine you can offer is CHEMICALS, it should be glaringly obvious that the medicine will not only fail, but will make the person sicker. This is one of the many reasons why natural medicine is so practical, and has withstood the test of time as well as tremendous efforts at total eradication of said medicine. There is no mention of natural medicine in this book, however.
Probably the most worthwhile part of the book for someone who is NOT trying to prove that MCS exists to the narrow-minded is the personal element. The show of compassion for people with MCS in this book is moving, when you can find it. I found Ms. Matthews' personal story at the end of the book to be utterly heartbreaking and infinitely frustrating, as the system set out to crush her case and set a precedent of denial and lies to avoid responsibility and of course, payment. For a person in her state of health to create and publish this book must have been a gargantuan effort, and truly a labor of love. I do hope this book has helped people to accept MCS as a reality and helped people gain support from the system they have paid into on good faith. I wonder on a personal level what has become of Matthews since this book was written, and can only hope that she has found a way to heal and not just survive.
End note to those with severe MCS: My copy of this book does not have a strong smell, so if you're sensitive to such things you may be able to tolerate this book on a sensory level.

Defining Multiple Chemical Sensitivity - CREDIBILITY issue!.......2000-05-29

Highly recommend it! It is evident that special interestswillnot like it as it is not within their financial interests! Nowwith new emerging evidence it becomes the issue of emerging credibility!

This book comparing to trashy campaign published disinformation campaign sponsored by special interests ... is undisputed MASTERPIECE! WHAT ELSE ONE CAN SAY?

Only works of Claudia Miller, Mohamed Abu Donia, Marc Cullen, Grace Ziem the MDs scientists and researchers could be rated any higher!

Together with other jewels and masterpieces such as: Chemical Exposures: Low Levels and High Stakes, 2nd Edition; Claudia S. Miller, Nicholas Askounes Ashford the readers can get full accounting of the magnitude of informations available today from first hand witness of the suffering.

To add to credibility to this book read scientific review by Alexandra Golub a DOD scientific review sponsored under PENTAGON and DOD programs on Gulf War illness research... demonstrates that there is clear the connection between neurological injury and MCS. Only by reading such first hand accounting and documented evidence one can get full image of the magnitude of legal deception by any and all means!

The recent findings in reference to heavy metals and specificaly mercury toxicity and neural sensitisation, as the cause of developing heavy metal allergy suported by the newest MELISA (memory lymphocyte immuno-stimulation assay) tests with the study of metal-induced neural neurotoxic sensitization tests

could beef up the splendind factual accounting by this the autor first hand of the mysery of injured by neurotoxic agents.

As far as discussed treatment it is difficult to treat what is not yet fully explored there for elimination and avoidance is what must be first considered.

The NEW emerging scientific evidence only adds credibility and supports this book. The recent findings of brain damage in Gulf War Veterans, as well as ethiology of allergy and asthma ...reported on May 18, 2000 with new evidence that the ALLERGY NERVE GROWTH FACTOR NGD was linked to NGF proteine.

"Hopkins allergy researchers took to the trail of NGF for several reasons. First, Koliatsos, who is an expert on the use of NGF in experiments to treat nerve and brain disorders, informed the allergy researchers that using NGF to treat Alzheimer's caused patients excessive pain. NGF, found naturally in the body, is a small, potent molecule that helps maintain certain nerve cells and prods other nerve cells to grow and communicate with others. "It looked like the pain syndromes we saw in these patients shared many of the same mechanisms with respiratory allergy," says Koliatsos. "

The new evidence clearly demonstrates a valid what previously was unknown missing links: "Hay fever and asthma now seem to derive from events not only in the respiratory system, but also from a nervous system that is overreacting to stimuli," says Vassilis Koliatsos, M.D., an associate professor of pathology, neurology and neuroscience at the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine."

God bless autor for excellent account of factual presentation of the REAL WORLD of what I will plainly call "QUACKERY and fraud in medicine".

A Must READ!

MCSS? Please read this book........1998-10-26

"Defining Multiple Chemical Sensitivity" is a carefully documented story, written to establish knowledge and truth based on scienfific method. The first chapters cover some of the latest work in biomarkers for demonstrating chemical poisoning. This poisoning may occasionally be followed by the complex of symptoms called Multiple Chemical Sensitivity Syndrome (MCSS). Biomarkers (medically verifiable tests) include measurable changes in molecules, biochemistry, or cells from human tissue or fluids. Included here are auditory and visual evoked (or "event-related") potentials (ERPs), SPECT scans, acute intermittent porphyrinuria, and changes in levels of cytochrome P-450. These papers go a long way towards providing an understanding of why the chemically poisoned experience such brain fog and react to so many things. There is information on how to prevent/counter attacks. Donald Dudley's chapter, "MCS: Trial by Science" shows how the influence of the olfactory system has been quite underestimated in medical science. 20 MCS patients (under Cullen's definition) were exposed to substances like formaldehyde, MEK, perfume, diesel, a whiff of felt pen... - all chemicals having 6 or fewer carbon fragments in their volatile component. Neurotransmitters from the olfactory system (like glutamate and NMDA), also have molecules with this structure. It is thought that the 6-or-less carbon chemicals act as agonists for the glutamate and other amino acids. And these are the same amino acids which are implicated in brain cell injury - eg stroke, pain, depression and degenerative brain disease. In the study, stimuli were given to eyes and ears - a changing checker board and clicks, before and after the chemical exposures. Electrodes measured how long the brain took to react and how much brain reaction there was. The findings were dramatic. Gunnar Heuser's chapter covers SPECT brain scanning; pictures of the brain which show how the oxygen-carrying blood flow is impaired in the frontal, temporal and parietal lobes in people with exposure to neurotoxic chemicals. This hypoperfusion is further decreased on exposure to, for instance, perfume. Mathematical tasks did not light up the appropriate areas of the brain. He suggests possibilities to explain these findings. These kinds of brain affects were actually detected in a study on DDT in 1966; this research was never followed up. However progress is being made - I liked Eileen McCarty's first chapter parting shot: "A cosmetic salesperson related her poorly adhering nail polish to the lessening of formaldehyde in the formula...". The book has lots of interesting "bits". Porphyrias are deficits of certain enzymes required for the production of heme. Heme is used to produce haemoglobin (for carrying oxygen and carbon dioxide in the blood), and cytochromes (for breaking down such things as steroids, drugs, pollutants, mutagens and natural plant and animal products. Prozac and aldehydes have been shown to inhibit cytochrome P-450. Porphyrias were an extremely rare hereditary condition (remember "The Madness of King George?") usually with a single enzyme missing. But specific testing (through the Mayo Lab) shows how a chemical exposure can cause a multiple enzyme deficit. Bonnye Matthews, in this chapter, gives a clear explanation of the process. She demonstrates that for the first time a model of MCSS is possible. Some Gulf War veterans have also tested positively for toxic-induced porphyrias. The information in this chapter on the substances which can set off an attack is vital. Though there is a great deal of common sense in this book, it's not a light read - there's necessary information for medical professionals - GPs, neurologists, neuropsychologists, psychiatrists, occupational health physicians, allergists, immunologists, cardiologists, gastro-intestinal specialists, anaesthesiologists... in fact it should be compulsory reading at medical schools and for all practising doctors, such are the wide-ranging affects of chemical poisoning. Bonnye unravels the medical detective story that is behind MCS Syndrome - the unethical and incompetent research and papers and medical assessments which were designed to deny compensation by showing MCS as psychosomatic. (The spinoffs are that these papers are now used in countries like New Zealand to deny claims based on MCSS.) But the book's not a witch-hunt - more of a plea for justice and open-mindedness in establishing facts. Bonnye Matthews also tells her own story - because she was (unwittingly at first) in the thick of it as a research subject and recipient of workers' compensation (for a while anyway) in Washington. Her unecessary medical procedures - the methacholine challenge, the venous punctures, even being forced to attend appointments downtown against the advice of her treating physicians are horrifying in their consequences. And loads more including a legal section which shows how a scheme which was intended to be no-fault insurance for work-related individuals has become an adversarial process (and this is Washington, not New Zealand). The measured title of this book belies a gripping read which may make you feel outraged and sick. Please read this book.

This is a powerful tool for education and activism........1998-10-01

BOOK REVIEW DEFINING MULTIPLE CHEMICAL SENSITIVITY Edited by Bonnye L. Matthews McFarland & Co., Inc. Jefferson, NC, 1998 REVIEWER: Irene Ruth Wilkenfeld

Having any chronic illness is challenging. Having a chronic illness that is not recognized by mainstream medicine can be a nightmare. Multiple Chemical Sensitivity (MCS) is one such medical conundrum. It immobilizes lives, alters destiny and erodes potential. By all accounts the number of chemically injured patients is growing exponentially and yet institutional dismissiveness and resistance seem more entrenched than ever before. And patients, feeling alienated and ostracized, find themselves caught in the crossfire of a bitter tug of war between traditional and alternative (environmentally aware) physicians.

I would encourage anyone dealing with this syndrome to get a copy of DEFINING MULTIPLE CHEMICAL SENSITIVITY. This one slim volume is like having your own personal team of `pro bono' advocates, on call to support you, 24-hours a day. It contains up-to-date medical and legal information, as well as a detailed, very personal, compelling case history with which you will easily identify. Some may call this last section "mere anecdotal evidence." I call it a powerful account of an inspirational woman, (Bonnye Matthews) working to fight an intransigent and badly flawed system.

A section on Workers' Compensation, by attorney Randolph I. Gordon will be invaluable to anyone trying to navigate this circuitous, often unresponsive system. It will also serve as a treasured aid to anyone involved in toxic tort litigation. Useful information on hazard communication, regulatory guidelines, the validity of low-level exposures, proving causation in the courtroom, coping with skepticism, along with pertinent legal precedents to help you authoritatively present your case to a prospective attorney, are all here!

Bonnye Matthews has done a masterful job of reviewing the latest complicated information on porphyria and making it readable by the layperson. "With understanding porphyria, it is now possible, for the first time, to create a model of MCS." In a scientific climate insisting on "biomarkers," this may well be the key to opening the door to the validation of MCS.

If you need to help document your injuries, you can learn about the latest in brain scanning technology, a section written by Gunnar Heuser, M.D., Ph.D. A chapter by Donald Dudley, M.D. will help you critically analyze the medical literature on MCS and sort out the distortions from the facts. You will learn how to defend yourself against arrogant medical misdiagnoses and learn to appreciate the reasons why conventional medicine prefers to define MCS as psychogenic rather than admit that it is an avoidable problem of chemical poisoning.

You might just want to get an extra copy to share with skeptical family members and friends. This is a powerful tool for education and activism.

Average customer rating:

Eh.

I love this book.

Fantastic for the actor and casual reader

A terrific history of the theatre & an invaluable reference.

Great Anthology

Extreme Exposure: An Anthology of Solo Performance Texts from the Twentieth Century

Manufacturer: Theatre Communications Group
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 1559361557

Book Description

Extreme Exposure: An Anthology of Solo Performance Texts from the Twentieth Century, edited by director Jo Bonney, features the work of 42 solo artists spanning the century-from Beatrice Herford in 1869 to Dawn Akemi Saito in 1994. Each artists' work is introduced by a journalist, artist, critic, agent, producer or educator who is intimately familiar with the material and its links to other forms such as vaudeville, theatre, cabaret, music, standup comedy, poetry, the visual arts and dance. In Bonney's words, "This anthology documents a part of our literary/stage history and offers the possibility of its being appreciated in a new context, for a new generation."

Includes work by Beatrice Herford, Jackie "Moms" Mabley, Ruth Draper, Lord Buckley, Brother Theodore, Lenny Bruce, Lily Tomlin and Jane Wagner, Andy Kaufman, Ethyl Eichelberger, Laurie Anderson, Rachel Rosenthal, Spalding Gray, Eric Bogosian, Jessica Hagedorn, Diamanda Galás, Ann Magnuson, Rhodessa Jones, Tim Miller, John O'Keefe, Anna Deavere Smith, Danitra Vance, David Cale, Whoopi Goldberg, John Fleck, Reno, Heather Woodbury, Robbie McCauley, Lisa Kron, Brenda Wong Aoki, Guillermo Gómez-Peña, Holly Hughes, Luis Alfaro, John Leguizamo, Josh Kornbluth, Deb Margolin, Roger Guenveur Smith, Anne Galjour, Danny Hoch, Marga Gomez, Mike Albo and Virginia Heffernan, Dael Orlandersmith and Dawn Akemi Saito.

Customer Reviews:

Eh........2007-03-15

I'm not sure quite what I was expecting from this book, but I wish I hadn't bought it. One of the excerpts looked promising as a comedic forensics piece, but it is more biographical, really.

I love this book. .......2006-02-06

This is a great book. Great. For anyone interested in solo performance, it's history and performers, this is the book. I do not know of a book as expansive, yet concise, which takes texts from early 20th Century performers like Moms Mabley and Ruth Draper to modern masters like the late-Spalding Gray and Dael Orlandersmith.
Edited by Jo Bonney, a director famous for solo productions, and featuring introductions to each performer's section, this becomes a theatre book unlike any I've come across.
Lenny Bruce, Andy Kaufman, Lord Buckley, Whoopi Goldberg, John Leguizamo, Anna Deavere Smith, Roger Guenveur Smith, Laurie Anderson, Lily Tomlin, etc., etc....
Works are featured in fragments, specific character pieces from larger plays, and many of the performers have multiple pieces, exhibiting their styles, poetry, innovation and skill.
This is a great book.

Fantastic for the actor and casual reader.......2002-06-06

This is a fantastic compliation of some of the most innovative and passionate solo performances in recent history. For actors, artists, and writers, it is endlessly inspiring. For the casual reader, it provides an accessible means of understanding performance art and appreciating the form as art. Highly recommended.
And, remember, read these out loud!

A terrific history of the theatre & an invaluable reference........2000-05-09

Extreme Exposure: An Anthology Of Solo Performance Texts From The Twentieth Century is a 423 page compilation of extensive excerpts taken from the works of more than fifty solo writer/performers, as well as prefatory material that situates their efforts into an historical context. A comprehensive introduction by editor and director Jo Bonney explores the roots and development of this distinctive performance art form, helping the reader to appreciate its richness, depth, diversity, and possibilities. Extreme Exposure is highly recommended reading for students and historians of the theatre, as well as an invaluable reference for writers, performers, and directors.

Great Anthology.......2000-04-27

Extreme Exposure is AWESOME. It is (to say the least) a great sample of solo performance. These one man shows are both funny and touching. You'll be glad you checked it out! Ryan Smith TTU

Simple Gifts : Four Heartwarming Christmas Stories : Just Curious / Miracles / Change of Heart / Double Exposure

Average customer rating:

Deveraux Sparkles While McNaught Turns Out Rather Dull
wonderful stories that should have been novels
Longer please
romance at it's best.
"Just Curious" is simply the most remarkable story ever!!!!

Simple Gifts : Four Heartwarming Christmas Stories : Just Curious / Miracles / Change of Heart / Double Exposure
Judith McNaught , and Jude Deveraux
Manufacturer: Pocket
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 067102180X

Book Description

New York Times bestselling authors Jude Deveraux and Judith McNaught shine with love's magic in this wonderful collection. Chosen from the acclaimed anthologies A Gift of Love and A Holiday Of Love, these are dazzling tales to treasure time and again, stories for all seasons and for every romantic at heart....

Jude Deveraux

In the snow-covered hills of Virginia, a young widow finds that miracles really do come in the least expected packages, in "Just Curious," praised as "one of Deveraux's best" (Philadelphia Inquirer). "Change of Heart," set in modern-day Colorado, is the touching story of a clever twelve-year-old who plays matchmaker for his bighearted, impractical mother.

Judith McNaught

This celebrated author magically portrays Regency London in "Miracles," the enchanting tale of a world-weary lord -- and an outrageous proposal. In "Double Exposure," a determined young woman arrives to photograph a magnificent wedding at a reclusive tycoon's Newport estate, and manages to unlock the secrets of a man's heart.

Customer Reviews:

Deveraux Sparkles While McNaught Turns Out Rather Dull.......2002-09-11

My mother had this book on her shelf and I was a big McNaught fan for awhile so I decided to check it out, not having read Jude Deveraux before. "Miracles" was good for a short story, but I agree that Nicki Duville deserved his own full length story as long as it ISN'T a combination of recycled story-lines she's used before. "Miracles" reminded me a lot of "Something Wonderful" and I'm SO sick of her characters lack of mis-communication and how the men seem all the same. Gorgeous, brooding, slightly dangerous *yawn* She needs a book where her female character is a match for the hero not just brain wise. It is the age of girl power, Ms. McNaught! "Double Exposure" was boring for me and I enjoyed Jude Deveraux's contributions much better! "Just Curious" made me laugh out loud, especially at Karen's clever come-backs to Mac. I'd rather have one of the Taggert brothers any day than a Westmoreland; kudos to Jude Deveraux for making men who aren't all carbon copies of each-other and are truly dreamy. "Change of Heart" was also delightful. Randy was the most believable heroine I've ever read and I loved her romance with Frank. I haven't read any Deveraux books before, but I think I'm definitely going to have to start. Sorry, Ms. McNaught, you used to be my favorite, but unless you start coming up with something more original I think you've been bumped...

wonderful stories that should have been novels.......2002-06-04

As mentioned in the title of my review, each of the short stories should have been made into full length novels, especially Nicki DuVille's story "Miracles." Nicki was such a wonderful hero in Whitney and Until You, but "Miracles" was over before it even got started. Ms. McNaught could have easily made Nicki's story into another one of her amazing historicals. On the other hand, "Double Exposure" with Corey Foster was a great little prequel to Remember When. Spence was a wonderful counterpart to Corey, and I enjoyed reading their story immensely. My favorite over all was "Just Curious." I loved Mac, and Karen was a great foil to him. Their story was completely adorable and sweet and ended way too soon for my liking.

Longer please.......2001-04-14

I loved Corey, but found that the short story didn't allow the author to really develop the male character.

romance at it's best........2000-03-23

Judith MCnaught and Jude Deveraux are the best romance authors ever.When i read their books,i am transported in a different place far away from all my worries.Although Matt Farrel does not appear in this book,i would be willing to give up everything for him.

"Just Curious" is simply the most remarkable story ever!!!!.......1999-07-12

"Just Curious" captured my heart completely!!! I have read the story a thousand times and still can't get enough of it!! The most fantastic part of it is that you can read it in less in an hour and it stills captures you the same way a 300 page book does. Although, I do wish the story can be extended!!! I recommend this short story a must read!!!! Deveraux definitely outshines McNaught in this book!!!

A Gift of Love : Double Exposure / Just Curious / Gabriel's Angel / Yuletide Treasure / Five Golden Rings

Average customer rating:

Delightful!
AN EXCELLENT BOOK
Enjoyed it a lot!!
OK, but could have been better
The perfect Christmas anthology

A Gift of Love : Double Exposure / Just Curious / Gabriel's Angel / Yuletide Treasure / Five Golden Rings
Judith McNaught , Jude Deveraux , Andrea Kane , Judith O'Brien , and Kimberly Cates
Manufacturer: Pocket
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Mass Market Paperback

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ASIN: 0671536613

Book Description

A Gift Of Love captures holiday magic as it transports us...to New York City, where a schoolteacher slips an antique gold ring on her finger and travels back in time to a man who desperately needs her love...to a village in Victorian England, where an embittered earl seeks a governess for a lovely, defiant little girl named Noelle...to a starry London night, on which a Christmas pony heralds a gift greater than any king's ransom...to the snow-covered hills of Virginia, where a young widow learns during a holiday trip that miracles really do come in the least expected packages...and to a reclusive tycoon's Newport estate, where a determined young woman sets out to unlock the secrets of a man's heart.

Let A Gift Of Love open the door to worlds of passion and adventure, where love -- and miracles -- are always in the air!

Customer Reviews:

Delightful!.......2007-09-03

A GIFT OF LOVE is absolutely delightful!! The stories by Jude Deveraux, Judith McNaught, Kimberly Cates, Andrea Kane and Judith O'Brien are wonderful holiday delights!

Very enjoyable!

AN EXCELLENT BOOK.......2007-02-10

Perfect for a long winter's night...My favorite was Judith McNaught naturally:):):). It was a continuation of her series Whitney My Love and Until You. They are all on my KEEPER shelf. Have already read them a few times. Books to die for.

Enjoyed it a lot!!.......2005-08-21

I really enjoyed Judith McNaught's story the most. But they were all entertaining. There's a nice mix of historical and contemporary romance.

OK, but could have been better.......2001-04-14

I am a big Judith McNaught fan and I was looking forward to reading Nicky's story. I had hoped that the author would have written a full-length novel for this fascinating character, originally introduced in Whitney My Love and recurring in Until You. I would have loved to see more details on the characters' developing relationship; it would have made it more believable.

The perfect Christmas anthology.......2001-01-03

I normally don't care for anthologies, for two principal reasons. First, many stories in these anthologies suffer from being over-short; the usual 70 - 100 pages is simply not sufficient to develop the storyline in a sufficiently satisfying manner. Second, there is always at least one story in each collection which is disappointing and lets the others down.

However, I saw this book in, of all places, a bookshop in Manchester (yes, in the UK). An import, at a very reasonable price, so I decided to give it a try. And I'm delighted I did, having had several days of very satisfying reading from five authors, none of whose work I had read before.

These stories all have a strong Christmas theme, which is done properly, in sharp contract to many Christmas-themed books these days in which the festive season gets perhaps a couple of lines at the end with no other mentions anywhere in the book. Each story in this anthology *feels* Christmassy, in different ways. And yet each story is very different. There are two contemporary romances in US settings, two British historical romances (in the Victorian period, though again each very different), and one time-travel, again set in the US.

We have a modern career woman reunited with the childhood hero who devastated her years ago by a careless act; a still-grieving widow who discovers that the boss of whom she thoroughly disapproves has an incredibly romantic heart; a poverty-stricken young woman finds out how it feels to play the role of angel to a lonely widower and his son; a young Victorian choolmistress enters into an arranged marriage with a reclusive Earl so that his orphaned niece will have a governess, and quickly finds a way to melt his frozen heart; and a 1990s woman is transported back to Pioneer country, finding herself married to the man of her dreams.

I loved each and every one of these short stories. None - well, except perhaps the last, which ended a little abruptly - seemed over-short or insufficiently well developed. And each had its share of humour, angst, romance and heartwarming seasonal cheer.

Highly recommended!

Average customer rating:
Multiple Exposures
Catherine Caufield
Manufacturer: STODDART
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback
ASIN: 0773753389

Average customer rating:
Development and Testing of a Multiple Filter Approach for Precise DGPS Positioning and Carrier-Phase Ambiguity Resolution

Manufacturer: Storming Media
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Spiral-bound
ASIN: 1423528670

Product Description

This is a AIR FORCE INST OF TECH WRIGHT-PATTERSON AFB OH SCHOOL OF ENGINEERING AND MANAGEMENT report procured by the Pentagon and made available for public release. It has been reproduced in the best form available to the Pentagon. It is not spiral-bound, but rather assembled with Velobinding in a soft, white linen cover. The Storming Media report number is A820293. The abstract provided by the Pentagon follows: The most precise relative positioning obtained using differential GPS depends on accurately determining carrier-phase integer ambiguities. To achieve high precision, many current static and kinematic algorithms use a floating- point solution until enough information becomes available to fix the carrier- phase ambiguities accurately. A mew method is presented that uses a multiple model Kalman filter to resolve the carrier-phase integer ambiguities. This method starts with the floating-point results, yet smoothly and rapidly attains the precision of the correct fixed-integer solution, eliminating the need to decide when to switch from the floating to the fixed-integer solution. This method is based on a theoretically correct blending of solutions from multiple filters. This new technique is computationally efficient, providing a robust navigation solution useful in demanding applications such as precision landing and autonomous navigation. The new method was evaluated during static ground and flight tests. Initial results indicate that the new method is capable of quickly resolving the carrier-phase ambiguities and provides a highly accurate (centimeter-level) navigation solution. However, the performance of the new method depends on the correct carrier-phase ambiguity set being hypothesized by one of the multiple filters. Recommendations for further research are included.

Flight Control Failure Detection and Control Redistribution Using Multiple Model Adaptive Estimation with Filter Spawning

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Flight Control Failure Detection and Control Redistribution Using Multiple Model Adaptive Estimation with Filter Spawning

Manufacturer: Storming Media
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Spiral-bound

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ASIN: 1423511441

Product Description

This is a AIR FORCE INST OF TECH WRIGHT-PATTERSON AFB OH SCHOOL OF ENGINEERING AND MANAGEMENT report procured by the Pentagon and made available for public release. It has been reproduced in the best form available to the Pentagon. It is not spiral-bound, but rather assembled with Velobinding in a soft, white linen cover. The Storming Media report number is A493104. The abstract provided by the Pentagon follows: In the current research, the MMAE with Filter Spawning and Control Redistribution (MMAE/FS/CR) are used together to identify failures and apply appropriate corrections. This effort explores the performance of the MMAE/FS/CR in different regions of the flight envelope using model and gain scheduling. The MMAE/FS/CR is able to detect complete and partial actuator/surface failures, as well as complete sensor failures. Once the actuator/surface failure is identified and the effectiveness is determined in the case of partial failures, proper control is applied in order to accomplish the desired pilot command. Improvements in the algorithm are required in order to enhance the MMAE/FS/CR ability to detect failures while undergoing maneuvering flight. This investigation shows the ability of the MMAE/FS to detect failures while transitioning through the flight envelope and while performing pilot commanded maneuvers. It also improves and demonstrates the CR ability to compensate for complete or partial actuator/surface failures.

Average customer rating:

Realities and the Healing Process of Ritual Abuse Survivors

Multiple Exposure
Dale McCulley
Manufacturer: 1st Books Library
ProductGroup: Book
Binding: Paperback

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ASIN: 1587213648

Customer Reviews:

Realities and the Healing Process of Ritual Abuse Survivors.......2000-11-07

MULTIPLE EXPOSURES tells one survivor's story and parts of all survivors stories. If you will open your mind and your heart,you will be unable to ignore the pain,the suffering, the healing and the love as life comes full circle. Robin,as special and strong and brilliant as she was had no reason to ever be able to love anyone or anything after a lifetime of undigestable abuse. It makes no sense that any ritual abuse survivor would ever be able to love and to move on. But she did and she taught others to do the same. If you don't read this book and feel the pain and the healing,there may be something missing within your heart and soul. Robin made an incredible impact on this world and her story is,although not unique, she is. Educate yourself with MULTIPLE EXPOSURES and carry on where Robin needed to take a break. It's not easy, but neither is life as a ritual abuse victim or survivor. If people can live through that life, make an effort to understand it and the process of coming back to something that may never have been there before....love....

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