J. K. Rowling’s “ Harry Potter” series (1997–2007) has turned into a global phenomenon and her Potterverse is still expanding. The contributions in this volume provide a range of inter- and transdisciplinary approaches to various dimensions of this multifacetted universe. The introductory article focuses on different forms of world building in the novels, the translations, the film se…
This open access book examines the rural school improvement programs implemented in four developing countries, including China, Myanmar, Uganda, and Kenya. It analyzes research questions such as problems faced by rural schools in these countries, approaches or models adopted to improve these rural schools, specific interventions to address the problems and their effectiveness, and lessons learn…
This open access book delves into the realms of geotechnical engineering and solid mechanics. In order to establish fracture parameters that are both relevant and conducive to safety, the book extensively investigates the fracture mechanical properties of mode I, mode II, and mode III in brittle rock materials. Various fracture testing methods and fracture mechanics theories are employed for a …
Chronic kidney disease (CKD) has become an enormous worldwide health problem, both in developed and less developed countries. The incidence and prevalence of CKD is high, and is associated with increased mortality and morbidity. Of note, CKD is the 12th most common primary cause of death, accounting for about 1 million deaths per year worldwide. CKD and end-stage renal disease are characteriz…
"'As a student of international relations and a former diplomat, Zhang brings the insights of a practitioner and the eye of scholar to explain why Chinese actors choose to engage in aid cooperation with traditional donors in the Asia-Pacific. This book is among the first to take a holistic approach to understanding the motivations of the many agencies involved in China's aid program, and it wil…
Oft forgotten but simmering “frozen conflicts” continuously mark the political map of Europe. All located in South Eastern Europe, the Black Sea area and Transcaucasia, these conflicts run along ethnic, national, cultural and linguistic lines, separating communities. This insightful book offers a rare critical analyses of the cases of Northern Cyprus, Transnistria, Abkhazia, South Ossetia, …
After World War I, membership in the League of Nations represented an important step for the British Dominions on the road to foreign policy independence. The internationalism of the League of Nations was not a purely political phenomenon, but also had a social dimension. In particular, the Geneva based Secretariat of the League of Nations evolved into a hub of liberal internationalism. Benjami…