The global trends documented in Vital Sings 1999--from a decline in nuclear power generating capacity to the proliferation of genetically modified crops--will play a large part in determining the quality of our lives and our children's lives in the next decade.

This annual volume shows key trends that should be integrated into the planning of our global future. It enables readers to track key indicators that show social, economic and environmental progress, or the lack of it, into 45 vital signs of our time. Each trend is presented as an overview using both text and graphics.

The bestselling “master of the medical thriller” (The New York Times) tells a harrowing tale of the lengths one doctor will go to in order to conceive—and the conspiracy that may be at the root of her struggles. Dr. Marissa Blumenthal’s dream of becoming pregnant has turned into an obsession. A successful pediatrician, she will try any scientific method available to conceive—until the horrible secrets of an urban clinic erupt in a nightmare of staggering proportions. As more women reveal their similar struggles and as suspicious deaths begin to look like murder, it’s up to Marissa to uncover the truth behind her plight, no matter how dangerous a mission that might be. “Controversial... believable and chilling.”—Houston Chronicle

Discusses trends in food and agriculture, energy, the atmosphere, the economy, transportation, health and society, the military, and the environment.

This ninth annual edition of Vital Signs takes the world's pulse by compiling a wide-ranging collection of trends that identify both problems and progress in the quest for a sustainable society. It highlights both alarming situations and encouraging developments. Part One is a comprehensive presentation of the key indicators in areas such as food, agriculture, energy, atmosphere, economics, transport and the military. Part Two provides in-depth special feature articles on: environmental features, such as transgenic crops and paper recycling; economic features, such as environmental taxes and corporate mergers; and social features, such as tuberculosis, prisons and women in politics.

This annual volume from the Worldwatch Institute gives prominence to key trends that too often escape the attention of the news media, world leaders and economic experts. By distilling 45 vital signs of our times from thousands of government, industrial and scientific sources, the volume allows readers to track key indicators that show social, economic and environmental progress, or the lack or it. Each trend is presented in both text and graphics.

Accurate clinical observations are the key to good patient care and fundamental to nursing practice. Vital Signs for Nurses will support anyone in care delivery to enhance their skills, reflect upon their own practice and assist in their continuing professional development. This practical introductory text explores how to make assessments of heart rate, blood pressure, temperature, pain and nutrition. It also looks at issues of infection control, record-keeping and legal and ethical considerations. With case studies and examples throughout, this text will be invaluable to all healthcare assistants, student nurses, Trainee Assistant Practitioners and students on foundation degrees.