Library acquisitions involve selecting and obtaining resources that enrich the library’s collection and meet community needs. Librarians evaluate requests, monitor usage, and may receive donations, but must also weed collections to make room for new acquisitions. Different types of libraries have unique collection needs, and acquisitions librarians must understand their library’s mission to develop a […]
Ornithopters are bird-like machines that flap their wings, with most being the size of small birds. Attempts at larger designs have been unsuccessful. Leonardo da Vinci designed the first ornithopter, and hobbyists use bird model ornithopters. The University of Toronto’s Ornithopter Project is the closest to a large ornithopter. The first ornithopter was built in […]
Heart murmurs in adults are most commonly caused by heart valve conditions, but can also be caused by other factors such as hyperthyroidism, pregnancy, and aging. There are two types of heart murmurs, innocent and abnormal, with specific diseases causing the latter. Innocent murmurs can result from increased blood flow to the heart, while abnormal […]
Animation offers a wide range of career opportunities, from traditional drawing to computer-generated imagery. Animators can work in film, television, web design, and video games, among other areas. Extensive knowledge or experience in computer programs or drawing/painting skills are often required. Career opportunities in animation are vast, especially since the advent of 3D animation and […]
Choosing between a SIMPLE and SEP IRA depends on factors such as the number of employees and net income. SIMPLE IRAs are for businesses with fewer than 100 employees, while SEP IRAs are for high-income entrepreneurs without employees. The biggest difference is the amount that can be contributed tax-deferred, which depends on income. Both plans […]
GDP is a flawed indicator of economic growth as it only measures goods and services sold through markets, ignores the shadow economy, and does not account for social welfare. It also fails to include non-traditional economic activities and illegal transactions. GDP only measures materialistic growth and does not reflect social welfare. Gross Domestic Product (GDP) […]
Monosyllabic languages consist mostly of single-sound words, but may use tones for variety. Syllables are the basic unit of sound, with some languages using them as an alphabet. One-syllable words can have multiple letters, and some languages use tones to increase the number of sounds. Some believe that all proto-languages began as monosyllabic. A monosyllabic […]
Essay writing competitions offer opportunities for students to showcase their work and win prizes like cash or scholarships. Companies and organizations offer contests for different age groups and essay styles, with topics ranging from global issues to fictional stories. Contestants must follow guidelines and meet deadlines, and can increase their chances of winning by being […]
Gene guns are devices used to introduce genetic material into cells through DNA-coated particles fired at high speed. They are used in labs for research, product development, and tagging samples. Gene guns were introduced in the 1980s and were originally developed for plant cells. They can introduce new DNA to force cells to make new […]
Yeast-containing foods like bread, beer, and grapes can cause allergic reactions in some people. Symptoms of yeast allergy include digestive problems, skin rashes, nasal congestion, and itchy or watery eyes. In severe cases, it can cause throat tightness and require immediate medical attention. Although they can be very appetizing, some people cannot eat foods that […]
An aviator, also known as a pilot, can have a diverse career in aviation, from flying small planes recreationally to working commercially for airlines, private companies, or the military. Aviators can also work as instructors or test pilots for aircraft manufacturers. Training options include flight school, private pilot lessons, or military training. An aviator is […]
“At par” refers to a bond selling for its face value, providing insight into market interest rate predictions. Bonds promise a fixed amount of interest and face value payment, with pricing based on present value and risk. Premium bonds have higher interest rates, while discount bonds have lower rates. “At par” is a financial term […]
An insurance surcharge is an additional cost based on rating factors that assess the degree of risk associated with a policy. Insurance companies and governments can levy surcharges, with the latter often using the proceeds to subsidize insurance for low-income drivers or fund drunk driving education campaigns. Businesses may also be charged an insurance surcharge […]
Qualitative reasoning is based on abstract data, while quantitative reasoning is based on numerical values. It is used in artificial intelligence to mimic human thinking and decision making. Engineers have enabled technologies to perform some types of qualitative reasoning, which could alter the role of technology in society. Qualitative reasoning is reasoning based not on […]
Question tags are short statements added to the end of longer questions to clarify or confirm a belief. They come in utilitarian, balanced, and unbalanced forms and are intoned differently depending on the meaning conveyed. They can be used to signal a desire for an immediate response or to add emphasis. Question tags, or “question […]
The Rare Earth Hypothesis suggests that Earth is unique in its ability to support complex life due to a long list of necessary conditions. This hypothesis is controversial, as some scientists believe other planets could support life. Future space missions may provide answers. The Rare Earth Hypothesis states that Earth is rare and that few […]
Subcutaneous emphysema is the presence of air or gas in skin tissue caused by lung or airway damage. It is not usually painful but can cause swelling and crackling sounds. The underlying cause is the primary concern, and treatment may include surgery or chest tubes. Subcutaneous emphysema refers to the presence of air or gas […]
Mechanic certification, such as the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) in the US, demonstrates a mechanic’s qualification to work on a vehicle. Certification is obtained by passing a written test, and a Master Certification requires specialization and experience. Certification is often required by insurance and warranty providers to prevent shoddy repairs. Mechanic certification […]
BSB is a six-digit code used in Australia and New Zealand to identify bank branches for electronic funds transfers and check clearing. The code includes the parent company’s identification, state, and specific branch location. Credit unions and building societies may not use BSBs, and overseas transfers may take several days and incur additional fees. State […]
The Berry Ratio measures a company’s profitability by dividing its gross profits by operating expenses. A ratio of more than one indicates financial stability, while less than one can signal instability. It should be used alongside other measures of profitability. The Berry Ratio is a financial ratio that is used by investors and other business […]
