The Epidemic Of Heroin Health And Social Care Essay

Because of the huge handiness of drugs and its impact on many aspects of health care and the economic system, it is imperative that wellness attention suppliers and policy shapers understand what drugs are being abused, who uses these drugs, where the drugs come from, and the wellness and economic load on the United States. It is going extremely of import for those straight involved with substance maltreaters to understand the physiological effects, psychosocial effects and backdown effects of drugs. Opiates and opiate derived functions in peculiar, whether illicit ( such as diacetylmorphine ) or prescription ( such as Oxycontin ) are being to a great extent abused across the state. These drugs can hold serious wellness deductions during usage and during disconnected surcease ( detoxification or backdown ) . This paper will show a reappraisal of the literature on the epidemic of diacetylmorphine and prescription opiate maltreatment. Through a critical reappraisal, constructs such as the prevalence of the job, the physiologic effects of maltreatment, the current tendencies in direction of the job and deductions for nursing and health care will be explored.BackgroundBefore proceeding, it is of import to briefly discourse the basic pharmacological medicine of opiate drugs. Opiates, otherwise known as narcotics, include the drugs diacetylmorphine, morphia, codeine, oxycontin, hydrocodone, dolophine hydrochloride and other chemically-related derived functions. All opiates are considered dispensable merely by prescription in the United States with the exclusion of diacetylmorphine, which is illegal in all fortunes. Opiates wield their effects by triping pleasance centres in the encephalon. The neurobiochemical theoretical account of dependence suggests that over clip, the encephalon ‘s c hemical science alterations so that it yearns for the substance when it is non at that place and can bring forth physiologic effects of backdown when stopped. Heroin for illustration, which is chemically-related to morphine ( the chemical name for diacetylmorphine is diamorphine ) readily crosses the blood-brain barrier to do a rapid spilling of Dopastat into the dopaminergic receptors of the encephalon ‘s nerve cells. For this ground, the drug is easy habit-forming and absence of the drug causes a esthesis of hungering and can do feelings of unwellness, such as sickness and diarrhoea, when stopped suddenly. .Prevalence of the ProblemSeveral research workers in the nursing, allied wellness and economic sciences subjects have explored and discussed the prevalence of prescription opiate maltreatment and hypotheses of the beginning of the job. However, there is a big spread in the literature related to the prevalence of illicit drug maltreatment ( diacetylmorphine ) among differe nt populations. The prevalence informations for diacetylmorphine maltreatment in the US is mostly reported by national study tendencies, such as the National Institute of Drug Abuse ( portion of the National Institutes of Health ) Survey on Drug Use and Health ( NSDUH ) . Even so, the monolithic study papers pays small attending to the job of diacetylmorphine maltreatment and studies merely two per centum of the 67,500 study respondents utilizing diacetylmorphine in the month predating the study ( National Survey on Drug Use and Health, 2009 ) . The etiology of prescription drug abuse and maltreatment is discussed more to a great extent in the literature than is heroin maltreatment. Harmonizing to the NSDUH, in 2009 4.8 % of the study respondents aged 12 and older reported utilizing prescription opiates for non-medical grounds. Of those, over 55 % reported obtaining the drug for free from a friend or comparative, and 4.8 % reported buying the drug from a trader on the streets ( National Survey on Drug Use and Health, 2009 ) . Research workers at Columbia University surveyed striplings aged 12 to 17 in 2005 and found that 9.3 % reported the abuse of prescription opiates over the past month. In researching the striplings ‘ motivations for maltreatment, the research workers found that the most normally reported motivations were easiness of attainment and affordability. Among immature grownup college pupils, prevalence of non-medical prescription opiate maltreatment has been reported between seven and nine per centum in the past month to twelve to fourteen per centum life-time prevalence. One of the most at-risk groups for abuse of and dependence to prescription opiates is the chronic hurting population. When used suitably, opiate hurting medicines are a gilded criterion of attention for serious pain-related conditions ( such as post-operative hurting, neuropathic hurting and so on ) . In an attempt to better manage hurting, the figure of prescriptions for opiate medicines increased 154 % in the ten-year period from 1992 to 2002, even though the population of the United States increased by merely 13 % . Although prescription opiates have been used to handle hurting and better the quality of life among acute and chronic hurting patients, the coming of the drugs ‘ abuse has led to a broad organic structure of literature on normative patterns and monitoring of opiate drugs. There delicate balance between pull offing hurting adequately and the hazard for abuse, dependence and recreation has been discussed in the literature late, mostly among the adolescent/young grownup and chronic hurting populations. Although there is a general deficiency in the literature of the figure of people prescribed opiates for chronic hurting. There is a big organic structure of literature which suggests that the increased figure of prescription opiates for chronic hurting patients has contributed significantly to the drug maltreatment job. In surveies to look into the usage of prescription opiates for chronic hurting, it has been found that hurting intervention programs are thin, good certification on the patient ‘s wellness history and history of substance maltreatment is rare, and opiates are sometimes improperly utilised or non indicated at all.Health Consequences of Opiate AbuseBoth prescription and illicit opiates have the possible to exercise a myriad of ague and chronic negative wellness effects for the user. Neurological diminution, vision alterations, cardiac abnormalcies, vascular complications, pneumonic upsets and mortality have been studied and reported. In a survey of over 500 opiate nuts, electrocardiographic alterations were documented in 61 % of the sample. These ECG alterations included ST-segment lift, which may bespeak ischaemic bosom harm ( or deficiency of oxygen-rich blood to the myocardium ) and QTc protraction ( seen largely with dolophine hydrochloride nuts ) . Prolonged QTc intervals may take to inappropriate triggering of the ventricles and may take to potentially deadly ventricular tachycardia. The usage of diacetylmorphine and other drugs by injection with non-sterile or reused acerate leafs may bring forth powerful toxins in the blood stream taking to endocarditis, left ventricular bleeding and decease. Research workers in Ireland reviewed the autopsy findings from eight instances of diacetylmorphine users and found rapid fatal unwellness caused by the endotoxin Clostridium novyi which caused fatal subendocardial bleeding, spleen expansion and pneumonic hydrops in all of the topics studied. Heroin can do important acute peripheral and cardinal nervous system complications such as neuropathy and hearing loss. In a survey six of endovenous and intranasal diacetylmorphine users admitted to the infirmary for acute unwellness, five had documented rhabdomyolysis between three and 36 hours after disposal of the drug. In each of the five instances, there was no documented injury. Typically rhabdomyolysis occurs after a traumatic, compression-type hurt where enzymes slop into the muscular structure and cause rapid neurological diminution, loss of musculus tone and coma. In each of the topics studied, no injury or compaction hurt occurred. In a group of patients with a reported history of â€Å" speedballing † ( or blending diacetylmorphine and cocaine ) , 2 of the 16 studied experient sudden, bilateral sensorineural hearing loss four hours after â€Å" speedballing † which resolved within three yearss. One extra participant experienced sudden hearing loss after â⠂¬Å" speedballing † but one-sidedly. The mechanism by which the hearing loss occurred was described as a possible cochlear toxicity or autoimmune reaction related straight to the drugs. Injection of drugs of any type can do vascular complications, tegument and soft tissue infections and infective diseases such as hepatitis and HIV. In the most terrible instances, opiate maltreatment may take to decease, by and large from overdose. Heroin has been related to 1.65 deceases per 100,000 people in the Florida population entirely over the last decennary and in Alabama between 1986 and 2003, a reappraisal of medical tester ‘s studies revealed those who ‘s cause of sudden decease was undermined were 5.3 times more likely to hold a history of drug maltreatment. Research workers in the United Kingdom have farther investigated heroin deceases and concluded that overdose related to heroin seldom occurs after the usage of heroin alone- in 50 % of the instances they reviewed, intoxicant was besides involved. Although surveies have been published on the wellness effects of maltreatment itself, a reappraisal of nursing, medical and allied wellness literature shows a important deficiency of surveies on the wellness effects of backdown ( disconnected surcease ) of opiate drugs. Several surveies have been found associating to the usage of pharmacotherapy to handle opiate dependence ( such as dolophine hydrochloride and similar plans ) but no surveies have explored the physiologic effects of backdown without medicine aid. Searching on-line databases for relevant articles on opiate backdown does non give any surveies other than those utilizing medication-assisted backdown therapies ( such as dolophine hydrochloride and buprenorphine ) . This is of import to populations such as inmates in a correctional installation where pharmacotherapy is non by and large used during detoxification and requires farther attending. In amount, the possible health-related effects of opiate maltreatment can negatively impact a myriad of organic structure systems. The hazard of potentially fatal infective disease, neurological and cardiovascular complications and decease by overdose creates a public wellness job that demands attending. Health attention suppliers in all spheres must be able to quickly and suitably place those at hazard.Deductions for Advanced Nursing PracticeNurse practicians are allowed normative authorization in about any province across the state. Depending on the pattern scene, they may order opiates to handle hurting. Opiates are the gilded criterion for handling moderate to severe hurting in both ague and chronic hurting syndromes. There has been some discourse in the literature on the quandary to handle or non to handle hurting with opiates. On the one manus, effectual hurting direction is non merely ethical but besides opiates are effectual for many patients for hurting direction – an d on the other manus there is a fright of abuse, dependance and dependence issues. The ability for advanced pattern nurses to place drug-seeking behaviour, issues with dependence and possible recreation of opiates is important to the job of opiate maltreatment. As it has been documented in the literature, recreation of prescription opiates by and large occurs with the patient merchandising, trading or giving away the medicine to another. Harmonizing to Annie Gerhardt, exigency room nurse practician, â€Å" drug searchers become victims of their ain disease † , going involved in a tangled web of dependence, drug-seeking, drug recreation and condemnable behaviour that escalates over clip with increased drug usage. Gerhardt ( 2004 ) suggests supervising patients treated with opiates for replenishing Master of Educations before their follow up assignments, patient studies of â€Å" losing † medicines, trying to see different suppliers for hurting medicines ( which can norm ally be identified by pharmaceuticss ) , and â€Å" scamming † suppliers for more medicines by congratulating the supplier or the office staff or displaying increased degrees of hurting in order to secure more medicine. When ordering opiates to handle hurting in patients already known to hold dependence issues, utilizing sustained-released preparations may cut down dependence while adequately handling hurting. Sustained-release preparations normally have a reduced street value and are less likely to be sold and diverted, and the backdown from sustained-release opiates is typically non as terrible. In footings of advanced pattern nursing, prescribers have the alone ability to screen for possible dependence issues, monitor those who are prescribed habit-forming medicines and potentially control recreation of those medicines to others for whom they are non prescribed. Ultimately, the cognition of drugs of maltreatment and health-related effects is of import for nurses at all degrees to possess.Deductions for ResearchTo further add to the organic structure of literature on the topic of opiate drug maltreatment, dependence and backdown, several countries still need to be explored. First, forms of drug usage in single populations and communities should be investigated. The types of drugs most normally used, the paths of disposal of these drugs and their negative health-related effects should be studied in a assortment of communities, both urban and rural, to derive a better apprehension of the forms of usage across the state. More research is needed beyond simple prevalence surveies on the figure of people who use to spread out on the existent forms of maltreatment. Similarly, the psychosocial effect of drug usage across different populations needs farther probe in order to joint the negative impact on persons and communities. Because the disconnected surcease of opiate drugs without medicine aid occurs often in specific scenes, more research needs to be done on the physiological effects of non-assisted detoxification. The forms of symptoms of backdown and negative wellness effects among populations such as the incarcerated and the hospitalized demand to be explored. The potency for the development of evidence-based protocols for the direction of maltreatment and backdown in these scenes can happen one time the forms of symptoms and wellness effects are documented.DecisionIn amount, the job of drug maltreatment ( which extends far beyond even opiate drugs ) has been reported in multiple beginnings, and prevalence surveies seem rampant in the literature. However, much more work demands to be done on the effects of drug maltreatment from a health care position across a assortment of populations in different scenes to get down to understand the impact of drugs on communities.

Operations Management in Insurance Sector

Operations Management in INSURANCE SECTOR Q. How to measure operational efficiency in service industry? Ans-Insurance companies use KPI indicators to measure operational efficiency and ensure optimum standards. The secret to success for an insurance company is providing the right product, having the right people selling and managing risks associated with it. Insurance organizations use and act on metrics to avoid unnecessary risks. Following are the Key Performance Indicators (KPI) that insurance companies use to measure operational efficiency.Policy Sales Growth Ratio It measures policy sales growth over a set period of time. It is increase in the number of clients over a specified period. It is helpful to gain insights into policy sales trend. The higher this percentage, the better it is. Policy Sales Growth = (Current period sales revenue – previous period sales revenue)/previous period sales revenue Claims Ratio It is defined by claims in a period divided by earned premium in the period. It helps to know the risk of claims and effectiveness of the policy.The ratio needs to be analyzed carefully to understand the risk associated. A higher ratio indicates too many claims compared to premiums and it isn’t good for the company. A lower ratio may indicate difficulty claiming which would lead to customer dissatisfaction. Claims Ratio = Total claims per period/Total earned premiums per period Percentage of Total Lapses It measures the total number of missed payments in a period compared with the policies sold. It helps in understanding why lapses are occurring and stop them from occurring at a high frequency. Read also Exam Operations ManagementA high percentage might be because of inefficient operations such as problems in the payment process. A company constantly improves its operations to decrease the percentage of lapses in each period. Percentage of Total Lapses = Lapses/Policies Sold Average Time to Settle a Claim It measures the time it takes settle claims. A decreasing trend is favorable. Lower time to settle the claim defines higher operational efficiency of the company. Average Time to Settle a Claim = Total no. of days taken to settle all claims/ Total claims Quotas vs.Production It measures the effectiveness of sellers and agents at meeting their targets. It helps in identifying when target sales are below and taking corrective action. A ratio below 1 means targets is not being met. A higher than 1 ratio means brokers are exceeding the target and it is favorable for the organization. Quotas vs. Production = Total Rs. Quoted Business/Total Revenue Top Brokers in Sales Revenue I t ranks brokers based on sales revenue and no. of policies sold. It helps to identify top performers for each category of policies.It also helps to improve the performance of brokers who are lacking behind. Top Brokers in Sales Revenue = Rank top 3 or 10 brokers based on sales revenue Total Benefits as a percentage of premium It is an indicator of financial performance. This measure helps in pricing of insurance policies. It helps to know the risk factors associated with each policy and set fair premiums. Total paid benefits as a percentage of premium = Total paid benefits/Total premium earned Q. How to ensure quality in service business and how to enhance quality in service sector?Ans-There are several ways to ensure and enhance the quality of an insurance company. These are listed below. †¢Six Sigma concepts can be implemented to ensure quality and conform to consumer needs. Six Sigma concepts make use of statistical tools which makes measurement of results easier. †¢Div iding the company into departments based on different categories of insurance such as separate departments for car insurance and health insurance. This would provide better understanding of which categories of insurance should be improved by the company. Deciding on the maximum time to settle an insurance claim. This would allow to improve service and quality of claim processes as claims would be settled more quickly. †¢Online information should be used to provide policy holders with accounts that provide updated information regarding their claims and premium payments. †¢Insurance companies can get into an strategic partnership with mobile banking providers so that customers can pay their premiums through mobile banking †¢A chart showing the updated rankings of brokers should be available to all brokers.This would increase competition and let the brokers know how much they are lacking behind others. †¢Incentives for top performing brokers should also be announced in advance to keep the motivation level high throughout and improve services. †¢Regular training programs should be conducted for brokers in order to increase their marketing and selling skills †¢A complaint center should be established in the premises to deal with the complaints received from customers. The complaints should be discussed and a corrective action plan should be develop to deal with problem.The action plan should be implemented and results must be analyzed †¢A maximum time to act on a complaint should be decided within that time the department has to act on the complaint. The corrective action taken should be documented and implemented within the specified time †¢External benchmarking with other insurance companies might also be helpful in identifying short comings and improving services †¢Define to brokers the criteria of quality customer interaction and to led them act on it

Business Plan For Ex-Steam Boat Willie Entreprises Assignment

Business Plan For Ex-Steam Boat Willie Entreprises - Assignment Example Ex-steam boat is not expected to distribute cash, pay dividend to shareholders or share repurchases over the next five years as it expects to expand its activities and invest in all positive net present value (NPV) projects. One of the priorities will be, creating an online database for customer's interaction, queries, purchases and free-draw. Consequently, all profits will be re-invested into its expansion program (Opening of new stores, extending its product line) as well as any profitable venture that the company may come across supported by the shareholders. Based on feasibility studies, the partners, of Ex-steam has targeted the outskirt of London, (Luton) to be used as its administrative office, warehousing, design and production unit for online purchases. This area is unique because of its accessibility to other cities, and European countries. The partners intend to use the London Olympic to promote some of their brand, and to benefit from ancillary auxiliary activities and industry. Rent for the building stands at $10000 per annum for the first two years. Initial funding for the project is expected to be $1000,000. Of this amount, the principal shareholder has contributed 40%, that is, $400,000 while a bank loan of $600,000 has been secured to cover the remaining 60% of the funding requirements. One of the proprietors placed his three apartments flat as collateral for the loan. Sales for the first year are expected to amount to about $2000,000 and are expected to grow at an annual rate of 30%. Gross profit is expected to be $475,102 against which expenses for rents, depreciation of factory equipment, wages and salaries, overhead expenses and miscellaneous expenses will be charged. Expenses during the second, third, fourth and fifth year are expected to witness increases as the company plans to increase expenditure on advertising, research and development, staff, and office and factory equipment. More branches will be created within this period, to facilitate dispatch of goods and services. About 80% of sales will be generated online. To minimize theft, customer loyalty card will be provided, to facilitate online purchases. Constant growth is expected to come from an aggressive marketing strategy that will be adopted by the company. Ex-steam entreprises also expects to develop its strength base on its product quality, network of suppliers. The company will also do everything necessary to protect the environment it which it operates such as improving its waste management activities as well becoming ISO1400 certified. Objectives To open and operate a successful Ex-steam boat's online design production and marketing / distribution stores in the UK area market, employing three to fifteen employees in the first year. To make at least 1000 sales in the customer loyalty register and card within UK and European Union in the first year of operation. Achieve first year sales of $30000,000. Maintain an average gross margin of 25 percent. To produce a net profit of at least $4000,000 by the end of the third year of operation. 1.1Market Segmentation for Ex-steam boat Company The purpose of this section is to discuss the various ways through which the new markets for the

Knowledge Management Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2250 words

Knowledge Management - Essay Example Furthermore, forces inside the industry, which include buyers, suppliers, new entrants, substitutes, and most importantly, rivalry in the industry. Therefore, the report presents knowledge management as solution to most of these problems and a tool to strengthen company’s situation. Discussion Definitions of Knowledge Management Without any doubts, for the past few decades the world has been changing at exponential rates. The ability of human mind of discover the secrets of nature, explore the seas, capture the air, fly into the sky and others have allowed us to live in a world which is a better and comfortable place. However, on the other hand, these technological advancements have really increased the amount of information and knowledge that was available before. In fact, never in the history before, we felt the need to manage the knowledge that we possess. Furthermore, the future that awaits for us where our success would be a direct result of our ability to effectively use , manage, and develop our knowledge. Technological capital and human intellectual capital may not get a place on the balance sheets of the organization but they will be getting much attention in the corporate goals, mission statements, and organizational cultures of the many companies. People understand that the only thing, which has the ability to limit them, is their ability to leverage and use the human mind (Stankosky, pp. 234-235). Despite the fact that there has a lot of research in this field and lots of ink is being devoted to the subject, yet authors and experts have not been able to reach a consensus or one unified definition for this topic. According to Robert S. Seiner, Knowledge Management can be defined as a concept in which an enterprise gathers organizes, shares, and analyzes the knowledge of individuals and groups across the organization in ways that directly affect performance (Frappaolo, pp. 26-28). According to Meredith Levinson, ‘Knowledge Management is th e process through which organizations generate value from their intellectual and knowledge based assets. According to Robert Villegas, Knowledge Management is simply the transfer of knowledge from one person to another, the result of which enables the recipient to benefit from the collected wisdom of the more experienced members of an organization or group’ (Becerra-Fernandez & Sabherwal, pp. 341-348). In other words, Knowledge Management is actually a cyclical system or a multiplier effect, which helps an organization in efficient achievement of its objectives and the same happens because the organization’s habits, planning and its execution is deeply rooted in the tacit and explicit learning of the organization (Stankosky, pp. 234-235). Why implement Knowledge Management? Following are some of the direct and clear benefits that Bobco will benefit from by the implementation of knowledge management in the organisation. First, the company would be in a great position to decrease the operational costs. Quite understandably, the market place of today has turned into a ruthless, aggressive, bloody, and destructive place where survival of the fittest is the order of the day. Even Bobco is operating in a market where the pressures for decreasing costs are increasing everyday. Despite the fact that sales have increased yet the profit margins have been shrinking due to increased pressures to outclass competitors. Attaining

Response Paper Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Response Paper - Essay Example From Asian culture to African, from Chinese jaw dropping sculptures to European’s art, several magnificent art pieces hung on the wall conveying their messages and showcasing their beauty in the most elegant way. When I browsed the exhibits carefully, I was completely intrigued by the Asian’s amazing artwork. It’s beautifully gigantic structure was something to die for and made me admirable. I was actually not able to grasp one thing: How a human being can make such a thing? The delicacy and perfection made me speechless and left me spell-bound. Art is one of those things which ask for no boundaries. It is something that compels the human mind to do and to make what he likes, what he feels like. This was something our teacher told us in every art class and now I could clearly see the presence of her words in these paintings and sculptures. I was not only seeing these paintings through my eyes but was trying to feel them, the fragrance of the place it belonged to, the culture and the messages it conveyed to the people. There was this one piece of art which demonstrated the mockery of the wealthy and rich people. These were dressed up sculptures of skeletons which startled me and struck my fancy the most. It brought me a unique visual experience I have ever encountered. This Art Museum offered a colourful smorgasbord of remarkable discoveries. Huge wall paintings, miniature statues and hasty sketches provided us a chance to see the most awe-inspiring beauty. Both contemporary art and antiquity art were showcased in these paintings. This was a place which was emphasizing on every type of art and promoting the old cultures being demonstrated in these paintings and sculptures. New York Metropolitan Museum of Art is tagged as a behemoth in such an artistic and intricate world. In the area where Chinese Sculptures were placed, it appeared contemplative across the room to me. There was a deep meaning hidden behind these sculptures, their eyes gazin g trying to say something to the observers. With keen eyes, I scribbled down everything I observed, even the minute details that amalgamated and produced some amazing pieces. I was constantly relating all these artistic pieces with the material I had made so far and whatever we studied in school, it was nothing in front of this mammoth sized paintings and the perfect sculpted figures which showed the perfect picture of numerable cultures, i.e. Buddhism. The collections of painting that were housed in this art museum were uncountable. From every corner of the globe, hundreds of years old history and culture was seen in these amazing art pieces. Artifacts that were exhibited included some European Art that left me speechless. Art holdings from the extensive portfolios of various artists like Van Gogh, Manet, Rembrandt etc were showcased that helped us to go back to what we have studied in our art classes. I could relate all my paintings which were truly inspired from these amazing art ists’ creations hundreds of years old. Some pieces from the Egyptian Era and the Islamic empire were seen in this art museum which gave us a chance to understand the insight of these artists belonging to a completely different cultures and traditions. This is what an art museum does. It brings all the cultures under one roof and enables the observers to see how the whole world is indulged in one thing together, in the magic of art, although belonging to completely differ

Social Networking and SME's (small and medium enterprises) Literature review

Social Networking and SME's (small and medium enterprises) - Literature review Example . However, Sicilia & Palazon (2008), conclude that social networking improves overall efficiency in operations of a business. This literature review summarizes and evaluates finding of diverse research work done in different parts of the world in regards to social networking and business. It focuses on the impacts of Social Networking to performance SME's in this modern age of telecommunication. Marketing, publicity and communication are the main business activities in which SME’s integrate social networking and business (Rodgers and Thorson, 2000). The following literature review finds out how SMEs harness benefits rising form social networking and it also investigates how these enterprises try to mitigate risks of social networking which include reduced worker productivity, security and compromised legality of operations (Williams, 2009, pg. 225-228). Large enterprises embrace social networking more than SME’s in their operations (Doherty and Ellis-Chadwick, 57, 2009) . The majority of research has focused on large enterprises and how they merge social networking in their organization. There are three main areas which have received little enquiry. These are the pros, cons and barriers of social networking in SMEs. This justifies the need to explore this field with interest. 1.1 Growth of Social Networking According to Weber (2009), both developed and developing states have experienced great effects of the social networking development. More than 130 million Europeans are involved in social networking in one way or another. Between 2006 and 2007, Facebook grew by 270% whereas Bebo which is relatively more popular in the UK than the US by 172% (Weber, 2009). However there are speculations that the amount of time people spend on social networks is reducing. This has been explained either as an indication in the growing completion in the social networks themselves or an indication that the record growth of 2006 and 2007 is not sustainable (Nikolaeva, 2006). Even with this explanations, the underway expansion of social networking website into non-English speaking countries shows that the influence it has will not fade out in the near future (Weber, 2009). According to the Institute of Real Estate Management (2010), members of IREM were asked to share ways they have used social networking as a tool to market their business to clients, manage properties, attract potential tenants or interact with current tenants. They also wanted to find out on the future prospects of social networking and results of their effort in integrating their areas of business with social networking. Klyuchnyk, in IREM (2010), indicated that potential clients can get information they require in a moment. This may include information about rent or price of an apartment in another city or even photos and its location. In Brazil, Twitter and Facebook are used widely by traders and companies that sell and purchase real estate. This is according to Fernanda (IR EM, 2010). However, law firms are a bit reluctant to exploit networking as they should as they feel that social networking is strongly focused on personal relations rather than law practice (Rodgers and Thorson, 2000). A legal claim can be justified from comments in blogs where residents may record

Political Philosophy Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Political Philosophy - Essay Example Many people have questioned whether the government, with all its laws and regulations, is justified to rule the people. What right does the government have to demand that its people obey? Why should an individual obey the state in the first place? These are just a few of philosophical queries being asked. Nonetheless, a majority of the responds stress the need for an orderly process and protection as the justification for obedience to the government. Some have highlighted the need to promote cultural and spiritual aspects of the populace while others stress the need for economic well-being, which stands as the foundation for all values. This text looks into the answers given by John Stuart Mill, Karl Marx, and Friedrich Engels. Mill concurs with Lock in vying for representational democracy; however, he is against the idea of natural rights (Pojman, 502). The struggle between Authority and Liberty has been ongoing for a long time particularly in the history of countries like Rome, Gre ece, and England. However, during such times, the contest was between the government and certain classes of subjects. Liberty meant protection against the dictatorship of political rulers. The rulers at the time obtained authority from conquest or inheritance. Therefore, most of them never held leadership at the pleasure of the citizens. Although their power was deemed necessary, it was regarded as highly dangerous. Some of the leaders would use authority as a strategic weapon against their adversaries or subjects (Pojman, 502). However, it reached a time when men stopped to believe that their governors should be independent. They deemed it fit that their leaders should be delegates or tenants revocable at their gratification. That way, they would have total security that the government authority will never take them for granted. Others still thought that there was a need to let their give responsibility to their leaders, where they can be removed if need be. This idea was common am ongst the last liberal European generation (Pojman, 504). However, in time, a democratic republic came into place as an elective and responsible government was ushered into place. The will of the people meant the will of the many. According to Mill, the only instance where power can be exercised in the right manner is when used on any civilized member of a community to prevent harm against others, against his will (Pojman, 505). However, this is not about minors in the society. Freedom should only be extended towards the pursuance of our own good in a specific way, so long as no other person gets hurt. A person who hurts others should be punished by law, in a situation where legal penalties cannot be safely applied. A person can also be compelled to do acts that would be of benefit to the rest of the society, for instance, to give evidence in a court of law, saving another human being’s life, or protect the defenseless. The society, in this case, will hold responsible the ind ividual should he fail to do the act. In this regard, a person can cause harm to others, not necessarily by doing wrong, but by refusing to do the right thing. Mill further argues that people should not have the right to coerce the government into doing something; such power in itself is illicit (Pojman, 507). It is even more noxious for a government to exert power as a result of public opinion. Basically, Mill promotes the idea that the principle of liberty is only justifiable by utilitarian reflections. 3. The Communist Answer according to Carl Max Karl Max played an instrumental role in the dawn of the Marxist movement. According to him, all cultural values, including all the laws and ideal, of a society are at all times the reflection of the rulers. History has always painted a picture of struggles between the classes (Pojman, 510). During the past periods of history, there has been an intricate arrangement of the society into different social orders, a diverse

The Responses to the Humanitarian Erisis in Darfur Essay

The Responses to the Humanitarian Erisis in Darfur - Essay Example This low incidence of intervention seems at odds with the agreement entered into by most countries in the Genocide Convention of 1948 wherein they committed, under Art 1, â€Å"to prevent and to punish†2 the crime of genocide. Could this failure to intervene in the genocidal activities of sovereign states be rooted in the inability of the human rights movement to propel international action? The case of Darfur provides a timely opportunity to examine the truth of that theory. It is imperative that a definition of genocide be explored and established first since much of the controversy surrounding international inaction today are in many ways related to the very definition and application of the term â€Å"genocide†. As is best exemplified by Shelly’s wordplay above, the definition and use of the term genocide has been muddled by political stratagems which seem to follow an unspoken rule to never use the term at all costs. Instead of the term â€Å"genocide†, terms such as â€Å"ethnic violence†, â€Å"ethnic cleansing†, â€Å"acts of genocide†, and â€Å"civil war† have become the trademark of the politically-savvy. It would be as though by avoiding the term genocide, a humanitarian crisis such as Rwanda or Darfur would cease to be genocide and transform into something more palatable to the taste. We must thus resort back to the definition of genocide agreed upon by the same international community before t hey actually found themselves bound to make good on such definition. In the 1948 Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide, the following definition is clearly detailed.

Hydrotherapy Case Essay Example for Free

Hydrotherapy Case Essay Introduction This annotated bibliography is based upon three journal articles, all of which address the question, is hydrotherapy as effective as land based exercise for lower limb conditions? Hydrotherapy, water based exercise performed in a heated pool and will be analysed to determine whether it is an appropriate and beneficial type of physical therapy. Search Process Once the topic of hydrotherapy was of interest, keywords such as effectiveness of hydrotherapy and benefits of hydrotherapy for lower limbs were used in search engines such as Google Scholar and SciVerse. Once articles appeared to be of relevance to the guiding question, the abstracts of each of these articles were read and only those that were easily understood, were interesting and matched closely to the guiding question were selected to be used in the bibliography. After sorting approximately 5 articles that were of relevance to the guiding question, they were then searched for in the VU Library so their full text could be read, as there was only an abstract available when searching through Google Scholar and SciVerse. After reading the 5 articles in full the decision was made on three by how relevant they were to the guiding question and having slight similarities to each other also helped in the decision making process. The three articles that make up the annotated bibliography each compare hydrotherapy to land based exercise for patients suffering from a certain lower limb condition. The first article compares the two types of therapies for patients with osteoarthritis and whether their strength and physical function will be improved by which type of therapy. The second compares hydrotherapy to land based exercise for patients who have undergone a total knee replacement where as the final article bases its investigation on whether water therapy can be as effective as land based exercise for patients who have osteoarthritis in the knee. Each article used a different type of study design. Article 1 Foley, A, Halbert, J, Hewitt, T, Crotty, M, 2003. Does hydrotherapy improve strength and physical function in patients with osteoarthritis—a randomised controlled trial comparing a gym based and a hydrotherapy based strengthening programme. EULAR Journal, 62, 1162-1167. The aim of this article was to compare the effects of a hydrotherapy resistance exercise program with a gym based resistance exercise program focusing on strength and function in the treatment of osteoarthritis. It consisted of participants who were randomised into one of three groups: hydrotherapy (n = 35), gym (n = 35), or control (n = 35). There were 105 participants, 52 (49.5%) were women and 53 males. Having such an even number of both men and women allowed the study to be evenly distributed leaving little judgement of being one gender dominated which may effect the studys results. The mean (SD) age of the sample was 70.9 years. Originally it was decided to have only 22 subjects in each group as a sample size of 66 was required however, the sample size calculation was based on the assumption of an effect size of 1.0 with a level of 0.05 and 90% power. Therefore, to allow for drop outs and injuries, this sample was increased to 35 people in each group. This proved to be beneficial to the study as there were several subjects that discontinued with the study. Being prepared with a higher sample size to allow for subjects failing to attend would leave the study with very few subjects to test, therefore increasing the numbers to more than what was needed prepared any unsuspecting drop outs if they occurred. The warm up in the land based exercise group involved about four minutes of stationary cycling. The strengthening exercises included seated bench press, hip adduction and abduction, knee extension, and double leg press. It can be suggested that the strength exercises for land based focused more on lower limb and quadricep muscles such as double leg press with a resistance of 10 RM compared to hydrotherapy which was more focused on ROM and hip exercises such as hip extension and flexion, knee extension and flexion, hip abduction and adduction and knee cycling. It would be expected that land based groups quadricep muscles would be stronger as their exercises were more related to strengthening this area. As one of this studys major testing methods was to test the strength of the quadriceps, it should have focused on more quadriceps strengthening exercises for the water based group to complete to ensure both groups were evenly distributed with similar exercises. One of the strengths of this study was that the exercise intensity between the two intervention groups were closely matched as much as possible. However, it was stated that progressive overloading of the musculature and loading through the eccentric phase of muscle contraction is not possible in water as it is on land. Therefore, the exercise intensity would not have been as high in the water based group, hence the greater increases in strength are seen in the gym group. To balance this difference, the hydrotherapy program had an underlying aerobic training component, as higher and faster repetitions were used to increase the exercise intensity. Furthermore, the hydrotherapy group continuously worked for the full half hour session, moving immediately from one exercise to the next. Although this helped to keep both mediums on a level field, a limitation to this modification was that the water based participants heart rates were not measured suggesting that it may have been difficult to assess if they were exercising at a higher and more vigorous intensity compared to the land based exercise group. Furthermore, the land based group participants may have been exercising with just as much intensity as the water based group which would suggest they would be doing even more work than the water based group. It can be suggested that one of the limitations of this study was that it may have been too short in duration of the entire study. Only running for 6 weeks may have been too little time to be able to show obvious improvements within the subjects lower limb strength and aerobic endurance levels. Although improvements were seen with both groups it may have been beneficial to continue to a longer period for further improvements to be shown. Another limitation to this study was that only participants who could provide their own transport to the rehabilitation hospital where the study took place three times a week were eligible to take part in the trial. This would have made it difficult for those who may have wanted to participate but were excluded due to not being able to drive. Having osteoarthritis in the knee and hip joints may prevent some subjects from driving therefore limiting them form taking part in this trial. It may be beneficial for this study to have the hospital organise transportation services for subjects that would have been eligible to participate but were unable to due to transportation. This article has high relevance to the guiding question as it is based closely on comparing hydrotherapy to land based exercises and shows that hydrotherapy is just as effective when dealing with osteoarthirtis as land based exercises. Article 2 Harmor, A, Naylor, J, Crosbie, J, Russell, T, 2009. Land-Based Versus Water-Based Rehabilitation Following Total Knee Replacement: A Randomized, Single-Blind Trial. Arthritis Rheumatism (Arthritis Care Research), 61, 184-191. The aim of this article is to compare outcomes between land-based and water-based exercise programs delivered in the early subacute phase up to 6 months after total knee replacement. This study was a randomized single-blind trial of patients undergoing physiotherapy after primary total knee replacement surgery was conducted in a metropolitan public hospital. All patients provided voluntary, written informed consent prior to study enrollment and were allocated into either land based or water based program with the use of a random number generator. Outcome measures were assessed at baseline (2 weeks post surgery), after 6 weeks of rehabilitation treatment, and at 26 weeks post surgery. It was determined that a sample size of 40 patients per group would provide 80% power to detect a 20% difference between groups in 6-minute walk distance, at a significance level of P 0.05. Therefore, 102 patients were recruited to allow for a 25% dropout rate. This was a positive implication made by the conductors of the study as there were several subjects that were unable to complete the full 26 week trial. The primary outcome measured at each assessment was the 6-Minute Walk test and the secondary outcomes were stair climbing power (SCP), the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities (WOMAC) Osteoarthritis Index, a visual analog scale (VAS) for pain in the operated knee, passive knee joint range of motion (ROM), and edema of the knee. One of the strengths of using the 6-Minute Walk as the primary outcome measurement was because it has a high efficiency of test–retest reliability and responsiveness after total knee replacement and permits decision making at an individual patient level. It was also beneficial because as the clients were recovering from knee replacement surgery, it was a non invasive, less intense outcome measure test. The patient is able to walk at their own pace and does not involve using an extreme amount of strength and effort which could put a high amount of pressure of their effected area. Walking not only allows the patients to become well practiced with their gait mobility but as it was re tested, did not put a high amount of pressure on the patient as it did not involve high amounts of pain on the newly replaced knee. This functional test for mobility-impaired older adults, in whom leg power is more important than strength for mobility, may be an optimal tool for measuring the magnitude of impairment and effects of therapy, and stair climb power test has good reliability and responsiveness after total knee replacements. Although the stair climb power test is a reliable test it can be suggested that it may be slightly dangerous and strenuous for elderly patients to complete especially after undergoing knee replacement surgery. 8 flights of 10 steps may seem daunting for elderly individuals especially if they need to use gait aid up and down the stairs which could become uncomfortable and awkward, therefore this test could have been modified to a smaller amount of steps instead of a large flight of stairs or another test that tests lower limb power could have been used in its place such as sit to stand test. In addition to the group exercise programs, all patients were instructed on a simple home exercise program, which was recommended to be undertaken daily and consisted of general active ROM exercises and walking as tolerated. However it was discovered that the home exercise program compliance was not formally monitored nor was the intensity of the exercises stated for the home program. Therefore it cannot be certain that the exercise prescription was similar for both land based and water based groups or even of sufficient amount to generate physiologic change. As the home exercises were not monitored it could be suggested that not all participants even completed the program on a daily basis while at home. If these home programs were monitored and logged by the subjects and also were made clear with the correct intensity to use this may have altered the results of the study and could have benefited the subjects further by improving in the measured outcome tests. One of the positives of this study was that during the outcome measures the patients were assessed by a blinded assessor so there was no bias shown to either group. However, this could also have been a weakness within the study as it was discovered that on a few occasions unblinding assessments occurred due to the initial blinded assessor being absent. This could have effected the outcome measure results for those particular tests that were held by the unblinded assessors. These results could have then effected the final results of the study favouring more so to one particular group. Another strength of this study was that most of the passive lower limb measurements were able to be re tested during the middle and end of the study and would be reliable tests. Knee edema was estimated by circumferential measurements at 4 locations (apex, midline, superior border, and 4 cm proximal to the superior border of the patella) with the knee in extension. The 4 measures were averaged for each knee and used as the knee edema outcome measure. These measurements which were very precise and specific to the affected area and would be a beneficial test to note the improvements and changes made around the affected knee area. An exclusion in this study which may have resulted in being a limitation to the trial was that there was no control group. Which would have made it difficult to compare the two trial groups as there was nothing to compare them to besides each other. It could suggest that having a control group would have made it easier to see improvements of each trial group compared to those who did not participate in either group. It could have provided a comparison to those who underwent knee replacement surgery and were not doing any physical activity program during the subacute stage. This may have showed actual significance of participating in physical activity compared to being sedentary and provided an indication if the subjects in the study were actually improving due to the exercises or if it was only due to their natural healing process. One of the limitations to this study was that during the water based program the hydrotherapy pool that was used was heated to a mean SD temperature of 25Â °C. Generally, the temperature should be increased to approximately 32–36Â °C for hydrotherapy for patients with knee and hip arthritis and recommended for reducing musculoskeletal stiffness. It was discovered that hydrotherapy could have produced more favourable results if the pool temperature was warmer. Not only would it have been more beneficial for the patients with their rehabilitation and recovery for reducing muscle stiffness but would have felt far more comfortable in the warmer water which would have made the program more inviting, hence reducing the nu mber of drop outs in the study. Another limitation involved in this trail was that patients who were not proficient in English were excluded from answering the WOMAC questionnaires which were used by the patients to answer questions in relation to pain, stiffness and functionality. Therefore this resulted in 8 participants in the land based and 9 in the water based groups that were excluded from this part of the study. This became a limitation because patients of language were able to be included in this study up until the questionnaires and reviews were being conducted. Furthermore, it could be suggested that having an interpreter or family member to assist with asking the patient the questions would ensure they were given the opportunity to complete the WOMAC questionnaire just as all the other participants had and may have even changed or effected the results slightly by there answers. Following the questionnaires, complications from the study were monitored up to 26 weeks post surgery using a standardized question form administered through a patient interview at review clinics or via a followup phone call after discharge. By reviewing the patients with a question form, it can indicate that those of non English speaking background would be again excluded from this part of the study. However, if these patients were still asked the questions the patient may not have fully understood the questions and given an incorrect answer. Furthermore the patient themselves may have questions they would like to ask the physical therapist about their recovery and would not be abel to communicate that across to the therapists. Therefore having someone who can understand them would be beneficial. . Follow up phone calls over the phone only allows for subjective assessments to be made which could lead to serious concerns if the reviewer is unable to see the patient. The patient may need to be further assessed or monitored objectively to ensure they are progressing throughout the study and finished the study without any further damage occurring and to ensure they are not in any pain due to the exercise program. The reviewer needs to see the patients surgical area to ensure the area has not been harmed or declined in the healing process from the studys exercise regime and to ensure they have recovered well after the program. It can be presumed that interviewing over the phone could be dangerous and too risky to assess the patients and should be sought out to ensure all reviews are done in person. Allowing patients who may not be fluent in English to participate in the study, may result in misinterpreting important information when reviewing patients or even while they are participating in the sessions. Again, having an interpreter on hand for those who are unable to communicate well enough with the assessors and instructors would be beneficial for both parties to ensure all information is passed on correctly with no misunderstandings occurring. This article was closely based on the guiding question as it gives a specific look at whether hydrotherapy is as effective or even more effective for patients recovering from a knee replacement to improve their gait mobility and knee range of motion. Article 3 Silva, L, Valim, V, Pessanha, A, Oliveira, L, Myamoto, S, Jones, A, Natour, J, 2007. Hydrotherapy Versus Conventional Land-Based Exercise for the Management of Patients With Osteoarthritis of the Knee: A Randomized Clinical Trial . Physical Therapy, 88, 12-21. The aim of this article was to evaluate the effectiveness of hydrotherapy in subjects with osteoarthritis of the knee compared with subjects with osteoarthritis of the knee who performed land-based exercises. This study was a randomized clinical trail where patients with osteoarthritis of the knee were selected from the Rheumatology Outpatient Clinics at SÃ £o Paulo Hospital and were invited to participate in this study. Sixty-four participants were included in the study. Thirty-two participants (30 female, 2 male) were randomly assigned to the water-based exercise group, and 32 participants (29 female, 3 male) were randomly assigned to the land-based exercise group. A noticeable difference is the very high number of females in the study, this could suggest that it was a limitation as it may have been beneficial use more male participants to have an even distribution of both genders as this may have effected the results and the outcomes of the tests. Within this study both programs had the same types of exercise were used for both. Land based exercises were adapted to be performed underwater in order to exercise the same muscles. The exercises used for both groups included stretching and strengthening of the major muscle groups of the lower limbs, as well as gait training. Both groups had 50 minute training sessions 3 times a week for 18 weeks. This suggests a strength of the study as having the same type of program for both groups would even both groups and by using the same muscle groups throughout the entire programs allows for an balanced investigation where no groups is focusing more on one aspect of their body. This allows to truly investigate which medium actually is more effective when testing the muscular strength and mobility of the lower limbs. An area of limitation was the lack of a control group to compare with the 2 exercise treatment groups. The authors did however take not having a control group into consideration, and stated that because there is considerable evidence that land based exercises are effective in patients with osteoarthritis of the knee, they decided to compare hydrotherapy with the gold standard of exercise intervention. However, the lack of a control group meant that it was unable to determine whether the improvements in both groups resulted from exercise or other factors, such as the duration of therapy or the degree of participant attention or motivation. Nevertheless, it was believed that most of the improvement seen was attributable to the interventions used, as osteoarthritis is a degenerative disease and would be expected to cause a progressive worsening of the participants’ conditions. It may still have been beneficial to include a control group to prove that their study was accurate and improvements were actually made due to the exercise programs. The reduction in pain found in both groups is a very important benefit for such patients. Although we believe that this improvement occurred due to the strengthening of the leg muscles, we cannot affirm this due to the fact that we did not directly assess the strength of these muscles, as our primary objective was to assess improvement regarding pain and quality of life. We had expected pain to decrease more in the water-based exercise group than in the land-based exercise group. However, reductions in pain were found in both groups, thereby failing to demonstrate a greater benefit in the water-based exercise group and showing that water-based exercise is a real option for patients with OA of the knee. A positive of this studys method was that when assessing pain, it was assessed at the time of evaluation instead of assessing the pain experienced during the previous week. It suggests that this method may be a better representation of the pain experienced during daily activities compared to measuring pain experienced during the previous week. This is a positive outcome as it provides the assessors with answers to their patients pain as it was occurring and did not have to try and recall how they felt after their previous sessions. At times, pain can be present and concerning the patient however once it has been relieved it becomes forgotten and assessors may consider this valuable information about their pain levels. Another strength of this study was the use of the number of NSAIDs as a good quality measure for the assessment of pain. Patients were allowed to use sodium diclofenac to relieve pain during their sessions, however, it was discovered that the use of this medication was decreased significantly in both groups by the third month of the study, and a further reduction was seen in the fourth month in the water-based exercise group. Overall, a 50% reduction in sodium diclofenac use was observed by the end of the study. This was an effective and precise way of determining the patients pain levels throughout the study. From this it could be proven that patients pain levels were decreasing due to their exercise programs and the decrease in pain relief intake. This article was of close relevance to the guiding question as it provided information relating to the effectiveness of hydrotherapy compared to land based exercises. It proved that hydrotherapy was as effective as land based programs through pain level testing for patients with osteoarthritis. Summary In all three articles patients improved equally well in most outcome measures comparing land based with hydrotherapy. In the first article is was stated that neither mode was clearly superior to the other as both showed improvements and gained strength. Similarly, the second article showed findings of both being effective ways of treating lower limb conditions. However, not one medium was more superior than the other. The final article indicate that water based and land based exercises reduced pain and improved function in patients with osteoarthritis of the knee and that water based exercise was superior to land based exercise for relieving pain before and after walking. These studies findings indicated that hydrotherapy is a suitable and effective way of exercising for patients with lower limb conditions as water buoyancy reduces the weight that joints, bones and muscles have to bear. Aquatic exercises have been widely used in physical therapy programs, especially when exercising under normal conditions of gravity is difficult and painful. Water buoyancy reduces the weight that joints, bones, and muscles have to bear. The warmth and pressure of the water also reduce swelling and increase blood circulation. Consequently, an underwater environment allows early active mobilization and dynamic strengthening. Reflection on Process On reflection of this process, there were many challenges that were presented. Throughout analysing the articles more knowledge may have been needed when critiquing the statistical analysis of the articles. Being able to find positives and negatives within the results areas of the articles proved to be difficult. Some of the barriers that occurred during this process was that not all relevant articles that proved to be interesting and closely matched the guiding question were unable to be viewed in full. This proved to be a difficult process and only some articles were found in the VU Library that had full text available.

History of Kites Essay Example for Free

History of Kites Essay History of Kites The kites have been around the world for at least 2000 years, or even longer. Some people think the Chinese flew them around 1000 BC, but other than that, the exact time, date, inventor, and place that the kite was invented is unknown. We believe that the kites might have been invented in China or even in Malaysia. Documentary has been found proving that the kites have been around since 200 BC. The documentary was a general in the Han dynasty is recorded as having used a kite as an instrument of war. This was a method to determine the correct distance to dig a tunnel to enter a palace and end a siege. Also there were other stories about kites being used to lift up fireworks to scare the opposing army. The kite was very useful at that time. The kite was introduced to Europe by explores coming from Asia. One of the explores was Marco Polo, who wrote very good notes on constructing a kite and how they were flown. As the 18th Century came up, the kite in Europe it was used as a scientific instrument. In 1749, Alexander Wilson, a Scottish meteorologist used the kite to lift thermometers at a height of 3000 feet to measure temperature variations at altitude. In 1752, Benjamin Franklin used the kite to demonstrate that lightning was similar to the static electricity that scientists were experimenting with at the time. Without the kite none of these experiments and inventions of our past inventors would have never happened. There are many different types of kites: sled kite, diamond kite, barn door kite, sode kite, rokkaku kite, delta kite, roller kite, dopero kite, box kite, and a lot more. Would you like to build your own kite? Try this! Build a sled kite. Here is how to do it. Step ! : Create a template for your kite by folding a piece of 9 X 12 inch construction or other stiff paper in half. Draw the design onto the template as shown in the image. Dont worry; it doesnt have to be perfect! It will be symmetrical when opened. Cut out your template, but do not cut along the fold. Step 2: Open your template up, and place it on the paper, plastic or newspaper. Trace the shape, and cut it out. Leave flat after cutting. Step 3: Use a couple layers of scotch tape to reinforce the corners F and C with a couple of layers of tape. Then, punch holes for string at corners F and C. Step 4: Tape the skewers or sticks to the kite. Once stick should stretch from corner A to E, and the other should go from corner B to D. Step 5: If you are using blank paper, this is the time to color your kite! Step 6: To make the Bridle: Cut two strings the same length. Twelve inches long usually works for most kites, but it is better to make it too long than too short. Tie one string to corner F and one to corner C. Bring the corners of the kite together then tie the strings together with the very easy Overhand Knot. The knot should be directly in the middle of corners F and C. Step 7: Create a tail, and go fly your kite!

Extensive Reading Why And How English Language Essay

Extensive Reading Why And How English Language Essay An extensive reading program was established at the British Council Language Center in Sanaa, Yemen. An elementary level class of government employees (age range 17-42) was exposed to a regime of graded readers, which was integrated into normal classroom teaching. Students followed a class reader, had access to a class library of graded readers, and had classes in the British Council library, which gave them access to a collection of 2000 titles. Questionnaires were used to examine students reading interests, habits and attitudes, both prior to, and following the program. The class library contained 141 titles in the published readers of some major publishers (see inventory of titles in Bell, 1994). Familiar titles (e.g. popular Arab folk tales) were selected for both the class readers and the class library, so as to motivate the students to read. These titles proved very popular, as did the practice of reading aloud to the class. Students reading was carefully monitored; formal and informal records being kept both by the researcher, and by the students themselves. Reading diaries and book reports were used, together with a card file system to document the program and record both the titles read and students written comments on the books. A wall chart acted as a focal point for in-class reading, discussion and exchange of titles. Reader interviews were conducted throughout the program, which ran for a period of six months over the course of two semesters. Students became actively involved in running the class library; tables were arranged and titles displayed attractively during the periods set aside for the reading program. Students were taken into the main British Council library for one lesson a week, during which they participated in controlled twenty-minute sessions of USSR 1 (cf. Davis, 1995). With reference to research evidence, we now turn to the role of extensive reading programs in fostering learners progress in reading development and improvement. The Role of Extensive Reading in Language Learning 1. It can provide comprehensible input In his 1982 book, Krashen argues that extensive reading will lead to language acquisition, provided that certain preconditions are met. These include adequate exposure to the language, interesting material, and a relaxed, tension-free learning environment. Elley and Manghubai (1983:55) warn that exposure to the second language is normally planned, restricted, gradual and largely artificial. The reading program provided in Yemen, and the choice of graded readers in particular, was intended to offer conditions in keeping with Krashens model. 2. It can enhance learners general language competence Grabe (1991:391) and Paran (1996:30) have emphasized the importance of extensive reading in providing learners with practice in automaticity of word recognition and decoding the symbols on the printed page (often called bottom-up processing). The book flood project in Fiji (Elley Manghubai: op cit.), in which Fijian school children were provided with high-interest storybooks, revealed significant post treatment gains in word recognition and reading comprehension after the first year, and wider gains in oral and written skills after two years. 3. It increases the students exposure to the language The quality of exposure to language that learners receive is seen as important to their potential to acquire new forms from the input. Elley views provision of large quantities of reading material to children as fundamental to reducing the exposure gap between L1 learners and L2 learners. He reviews a number of studies with children between six and twelve years of age, in which subjects showed rapid growth in language development compared with learners in regular language programs . There was a spread of effect from reading competence to other language skills writing, speaking and control over syntax, (Elley 1991:404). 4. It can increase knowledge of vocabulary Nagy Herman (1987) claimed that children between grades three and twelve (US grade levels) learn up to 3000 words a year. It is thought that only a small percentage of such learning is due to direct vocabulary instruction, the remainder being due to acquisition of words from reading. This suggests that traditional approaches to the teaching of vocabulary, in which the number of new words taught in each class was carefully controlled (words often being presented in related sets), is much less effective in promoting vocabulary growth than simply getting students to spend time on silent reading of interesting books. 5. It can lead to improvement in writing Stotsky (1983) and Krashen (1984) reviewed a number of L1 studies that appear to show the positive effect of reading on subjects writing skills, indicating that students who are prolific readers in their pre-college years become better writers when they enter college. L2 studies by Hafiz Tudor (1989) in the UK and Pakistan, and Robb Susser (1989) in Japan, revealed more significant improvement in subjects written work than in other language skills. These results again support the case for an input-based, acquisition-oriented reading program based on extensive reading as an effective means of fostering improvements in students writing. 6. It can motivate learners to read Reading material selected for extensive reading programs should address students needs, tastes and interests, so as to energize and motivate them to read the books. In the Yemen, this was achieved through the use of familiar material and popular titles reflecting the local culture (e.g.. Aladdin and His Lamp). Bell Campbell (1996, 1997) explore the issue in a South East Asian context, presenting various ways to motivate learners to read and explaining the role of extensive reading and regular use of libraries in advancing the reading habit . 7. It can consolidate previously learned language Extensive reading of high-interest material for both children and adults offers the potential for reinforcing and recombining language learned in the classroom. Graded readers have a controlled grammatical and lexical load, and provide regular and sufficient repetition of new language forms (Wodinsky Nation 1988).Therefore, students automatically receive the necessary reinforcement and recycling of language required to ensure that new input is retained and made available for spoken and written production. 8. It helps to build confidence with extended texts Much classroom reading work has traditionally focused on the exploitation of shorts texts, either for presenting lexical and grammatical points or for providing students with limited practice in various reading skills and strategies. However, a large number of students in the EFL/ESL world require reading for academic purposes, and therefore need training in study skills and strategies for reading longer texts and books. Kembo (1993) points to the value of extensive reading in developing students confidence and ability in facing these longer texts. 9. It encourages the exploitation of textual redundancy Insights from cognitive psychology have informed our understanding of the way the brain functions in reading. It is now generally understood that slow, word-by-word reading, which is common in classrooms, impedes comprehension by transferring an excess of visual signals to the brain. This leads to overload because only a fraction of these signals need to be processed for the reader to successfully interpret the message. Kalb (1986) refers to redundancy as an important means of processing, and to extensive reading as the means of recognizing and dealing with redundant elements in texts. 10. It facilitates the development of prediction skills One of the currently accepted perspectives on the reading process is that it involves the exploitation of background knowledge. Such knowledge is seen as providing a platform for readers to predict the content of a text on the basis of a pre-existing schema. When students read, these schema are activated and help the reader to decode and interpret the message beyond the printed words. These processes presuppose that readers predict, sample, hypothesize and reorganize their understanding of the message as it unfolds while reading (Nunan 1991: 65-66). Practical Advice on Running Extensive Reading Programs 1. Maximize Learner Involvement A number of logistical hurdles have to be overcome in order to make an extensive reading program effective. Books need to be transported, displayed and collected at the end of each reading session. Considerable paperwork is required to document the card file system, reading records, inventories, book reports and in maintaining and updating lists of titles. Students should therefore be encouraged to take an active role in the management and administration of the reading program. In the Yemen program, students gained a strong sense of ownership through running the reading resources in an efficient, coordinated and organized manner. 2. The Reader Interview Regular conferencing between teacher and student played a key role in motivating students in the Yemen to read the books. This enabled effective monitoring of individual progress and provided opportunities for the teacher to encourage students to read widely, show interest in the books being read, and to guide students in their choice of titles. By demonstrating commitment in their own reading, teachers can foster positive attitudes to reading, in which it is no longer viewed as tedious, demanding, hard work, but as a pleasurable part of their learning. 3. Read Aloud to the Class In the Yemen study, reader interviews conducted with students revealed the popularity of occasions when the teacher read aloud to the class. The model of pronunciation provided acted as a great motivator, encouraging many students to participate in classroom reading. Students gained confidence in silent reading because they were able to verbalize sounds they previously could could not recognize. This resulted in wider reading by some of the weaker readers in the class. Often thought of as bad practice, reading aloud should play a full part in motivating the emerging reader to overcome the fear of decoding words in an unfamiliar script. 4. Student Presentations Short presentations on books read played an absolutely crucial role in the program and students frequently commented on the value of oral work in class for exchanging information about the books. The reader interviews revealed that most of the book choices made by students resulted from recommendations made by friends and not by the teacher. This demonstrates that given the right preparation, encouragement, sense of ownership and belonging, an extensive reading program will achieve a direction and momentum governed by the learners themselves; a large step in the promotion of student independence and autonomy. 5. Written Work Based on the Reading Effective reading will lead to the shaping of the readers thoughts, which naturally leads many learners to respond in writing with varying degrees of fluency. Elementary level students can be asked simply to write short phrases expressing what they most enjoyed about a book they read, or to record questions they wish to ask the teacher or other students in class. With intermediate students, book reports may be used, with sections for questions, new vocabulary, and for recording the main characters and events. At this level, summary writing is also a valuable practice because it allows learners to assert full control, both of the main factual or fictional content of a book, and of the grammar and vocabulary used to express it. Advanced students can be asked to write compositions, which, by definition, are linguistically more demanding written responses to the reading material. 6. Use Audio Material in the Reading Program The use of audio recordings of books read aloud and of graded readers on cassette proved very popular with the students in Yemen, and is advocated for wide application. Listening material provided the learners with a model of correct pronunciation which aided word recognition, and exposed students to different accents, speech rhythms and cadences. Student confidence in their ability to produce natural speech patterns and to read along with the voice of a recorded speaker is central to maintaining their motivation to master the language as a medium for talking about their reading. 7. Avoid the Use of Tests Extensive reading programs should be without the pressures of testing or marks (Davis 1995:329). The use of tests runs contrary to the objective of creating stress-free conditions for pleasure reading because it invokes images of rote learning, vocabulary lists, memorization and homework. Extensive reading done at home should be under the learners control and not an obligation imposed by the teacher. By their very nature, tests impose a rigor on the learning process, which the average student will never equate with pleasure. 8. Discourage the Over-Use of Dictionaries While dictionaries certainly have a place in the teaching of reading, it is probably best located in intensive reading lessons, where detailed study of the lexical content of texts is appropriate. If learners turn to the dictionary every time they come across an unfamiliar word, they will focus only on the language itself, and not on the message conveyed. This habit will result in slow, inefficient reading and destroy the pleasure that reading novels and other literature are intended to provide. Summarizing comments on the extensive reading done by his subjects, Pickard (1996:155) notes that Use of the dictionary was sparing, with the main focus on meaning. 9. Monitor the Students Reading In order to run an extensive reading program successfully, effective monitoring is required, both to administer the resources efficiently, and to trace students developing reading habits and interests. In the Yemen program, a card file system was used to record titles and the dates the books were borrowed and returned. Input from the monitoring process helps us to record students progress, maintain and update an inventory of titles, and locate and select new titles for the class library. It therefore serves both the individual needs of the reader and the logistical task of managing the reading resources. 10. Maintain the Entertainment This is perhaps the most important aspect of the program to emphasize. Teachers need to invest time and energy in entertaining the participants by making use of multimedia sources to promote the books (e.g. video, audio, CD ROM, film, etc.). They should also exploit the power of anecdote by telling the students about interesting titles, taking them out to see plays based on books, exploiting posters, leaflets, library resources, and even inviting visiting speakers to give a talk in class on a book they have read recently. In these ways, teachers can maintain student motivation to read and secure their full engagement in the enjoyment the program provides. Conclusion Tsangs (1996) study, carried out in Hong Kong secondary schools, provided further persuasive evidence of the effectiveness of extensive reading in fostering learners language development. He found that the reading program was significantly more effective than the writing program (1996:225) . Extensive reading programs can provide very effective platforms for promoting reading improvement and development from elementary levels upwards. Although they do require a significant investment in time, energy and resources on the part of those charged with managing the materials, the benefits in terms of language and skills development for the participating learners far outweigh the modest sacrifices required. If such programs receive institutional support and can be integrated into the curriculum so that they become agreed school policy, as suggested in Davis (1995), they will likely be more readily and widely adopted, particularly in countries where material and financial resources are adequ ate. Notes 1. USSR is uninterrupted sustained silent reading.

Distributed File Sytsem :: Essays Papers

Distributed File Sytsem Intro CODA is an experimental distributed file system being developed at Carnegie Mellon University. Dr. M. Satyanarayanan heads this group whose purpose is to design and implement a distributed file system that allows for transparent mobile computing in a client server environment. The goals set forth for CODA include disconnected operation for mobile clients, failure resistance, performance, scalability and security. Architecture Most of the aspects of CODA’s basic architecture are inherited from its predecessor AFS (Andrew File System). Like AFS, CODA makes a distinction between servers and clients. The CODA workstation servers consist of partitions available to the file server. The partitions are made up of volumes that contain files. The volumes are set up like a directory structure, a root directory and the tree below it. A typical server would have hundreds of volumes of around 10MB each. The use of volumes helps to make large amounts of data more manageable and flexible. CODA stores volume and directory information along with access control lists and file attributes in raw partitions. These partitions are accessed through a log based recoverable virtual memory package (RVM). Only the file data is stored in the server partition files. Each of the volumes has a name and an ID. Volumes can be mounted anywhere in /coda except for under existing directories. A new directory will be created as part of the mount process (the volume name cannot conflict with existing directories in order to eliminate confusion). CODA makes the mounting points invisible to the user; they appear as regular directories. Files in CODA are identified by a FID (File identifier). The Fid consists of three 32 bit integers: the VolumeId, a VnodeId and an Uniquifier. The VolumeId identifies the volume the file resides in, the VnodeId is the inode number of the file and the Uniquifier guarantees no FID is ever used more than once. CODA stores replicated copies of volumes on a group of servers for higher availability and reliability. The list of the servers that hold a copy of the replicated volume is the VSG or Volume Storage Group. Each replicated volume’s VolumeId is also replicated. The replicated VolumeIds keep the VSG and the local volumes of each member together. Connected Operation The inner workings of a file system operation in CODA begin in much the same way they would in many other file systems.

Soviet historians hold the view that the period ranging from 1905 to 19

Discuss the reasons why the Bolsheviks had achieved so little by 1914 Despite being the main opposition to the Tsar in Russia at the time, the Bolsheviks failed to make any significant progress in their aims to overthrow the Tsarist autocracy, due to many problems throwing the party in to crisis, with their efforts to influence the proletariat to revolt against the Tsar proved to be failed attempts. In order to come out with a fair and balanced conclusion, it is necessary to look at the opinions of historians from both ends of the spectrum: from the sympathetic Soviet historians, to the more critical opinions of the Western historians, and then lastly looking at the more balanced and neutral views of revisionist historians. Soviet historians hold the view that the period ranging from 1905 to 1914 was chosen by the Bolsheviks as a time to reorganise and strengthen their party, keeping in mind that the oppressive character of the Tsarist system caused too many obstacles for them, thus making it nearly impossible for them to make much progress in achieving there goals. Along with this, this body of historian also hold the Mensheviks responsible for lack of success, arguing that their awkwardness and co-operation with the bourgeoisie was undermining key Bolshevik beliefs, inadvertently destroying any opportunity the Bolsheviks may have had to create an alliance with the working classes and peasantry. They are seen as contradictors to Marxist ideals for these actions. Soviets believe that the 1905 revolution was both inspired and led by the Bolsheviks, with the Mensheviks co-operation with tsarist authorities being held responsible for... ...ar that there are several reasons that stand out as key in answering the question put forward. Firstly, the Bolsheviks faced the problem of the Okhrana and the autocracy, as this meant that there was always a threat from the secret police and therefore a small party was the only solution. Secondly, Lenin was partly to blame as he played hardly any role in the revolution of 1905 and also he failed to realise the potential of the Dumas. His ideology would not help him either as he constantly changed it in order to adapt and fit in with his surroundings. Finally, the Mensheviks were also a key obstacle as their larger party and co-operation with their bourgeoisie meant they were undermining key Bolshevik beliefs, thus destroying any opportunity the Bolsheviks may have had to create an alliance with the lower classes.

Kfc’s Explosive Growth in China Essay

Kentucky fried Chicken (KFC) has achieved another milestone in delivery. The explosive growth in Asian region most particularly in their current trends in China that KFC fried chicken, burger and fries is gaining its way to superstardom. In China, Yum! Brands is opening a KFC store every day. But this is not the KFC you know in America. A recent case study written by professor David Bell and Agribusiness Program director Mary Shelman reveals how the chicken giant adapted its famous fast-food formula for the local market. Key concepts include: – In China, KFC’s strategy was to be part of the local community, not be seen as a foreign presence. (Su, 2011) – China division chairman and CEO Sam Su combined the best ideas from the US fast-food model and adapted them to serve the needs of the Chinese consumer. – Only a small number of menu items would be familiar to Western visitors—the Chinese KFC offerings include fried dough sticks, egg tarts, and foods tailored to the tastes of specific regions within the country. – To counter concerns about fast food and obesity, Su offered a healthier menu and supports exercise and youth events. The traditional strategy is the involvement of their culture has largely influence the family ties to consider their food. According to Bell (2011) one key issue the case examines is â€Å"how to implement the rollout of a fast-food chain involving so many stores across such a vast—and regionally different—country.† (Stravish, 2011) When their customers walked into their restaurant they see Chinese customer service. Chinese food and Chinese employees welcome customers and that’s why it becomes easy for them to initiate interaction. Su’s strategy was that KFC â€Å"would not be seen as a foreign presence but as part of the local community â€Å"There is no room for ego,† (Su, 2011) â€Å"China doesn’t have the same culture of individualism that is present in the United States.† (Su, 2011) Along with being smart, driven and great entrepreneur, Su hired the right people. For Su, this meant employees who read and spoke the language , who understood the restaurant business and Chinese consumer, and also experience on doing business in the Western way. Trained labor is a very valuable asset even in a land of 1.3 billion-plus people. (Stravish, 2011) The large conflicting crowd should have one idea about the taste and preference as much as possible they have outperformed the number one fast food chain, which is McDonald. Sam Su also consider diversification of food items so that they can cater to a wider customer range especially those  people who are healthy conscious about their body, they offer fat free food and vegetables menu to their customers that attract and re-invent even more heterogeneous customer demand. The wide variety of choices can help the customers to make healthy options and balance diet, their strategy also involve presenting their choices. They have also practice sponsorship and promotion about healthy living in 2010 that has become another successful endeavor on their part that various exercises has been promoted inside the stores and customers are free to join, they have gathered at least 260,000 customer participants in 438 key cities. Their promotion has been very successful that makes their store even more popular. (Starvish, 2011) KFC and China has become a Yum Republic. It is certain that globalization not only helps KFC profits, but it’s international, which benefits China and the consumers. Additionally some of their popular food sisters company includes Taco Bell, Pizza Hut, Long John Silver and A&W All American Food. I believe globalization happens to be great for the country and the overall market economy because it promotes prosperity to participating countries. All that we need to do is educate people on multiculturalism and diversity within the work place, as well as the sensitivity of culture within participating countries. Opportunity costs, trade terms, balance trades, comparative advantages, changes in consumption and production, and how much cheaper it is to purchase than to produce are some benefits to globalization. The greater interdependence that globalization is causing means an increasingly freer flow of goods, services, money, people, and idea across national borders. (Wild&Wild, 6th ed, pg 6) Su has done a great job on hiring employees that know the language, understand the business and Chinese customers, and also having experience on doing business the Western way. Because of technological changes, continuous development and research, the market economy remains to be dynamic. Reference: Starvish. (2011). KFC’s Explosive Growth in China. HBS Cases. Retrieved from http://hbswk.hbs.edu/item/6704.html Wild&Wild. International business: the challenges of globalization/ John J. Wild, Kenneth L. Wild- 6th ed.

Birth Control for Teenagers

The term birth control is generally defined as the â€Å"deliberate prevention of pregnancy using any of several methods† (â€Å"Birth Control†). It is sometimes referred to as contraception (â€Å"Birth Control†). A deeper view of the term would reveal that it ranges from the most popular, which is the pills, up to the traditional, which is the method of abstinence (Avert. org). Its definition alone does not prescribe anything about the age group as to whom this should be administered. Recent studies would place better light on the administration of birth control for teenagers as early as their age and the benefits would bounce back on to them.Likewise, the purpose of birth control is not the prevention of pregnancy alone but also includes health safety reasons and for medical purposes. It serves as a means of preventing the spread of HIV diseases among teenagers who are especially at risk for unprotected sexual intercourse. Moreover, pills, as one of the method s for birth control, are sometimes prescribed by doctors for â€Å"medical reasons, such as excessively heavy periods, severe menstrual cramps, or acne† (Greenfield).These purposes stated above places birth control means with a lot of uses and does not solely mean the prevention of pregnancy, as it is commonly referred to. The benefits of providing birth control for teenagers exceed the moral speculations attached to it. The speculations and allegations of the harm that birth control would bring would certainly place the teenagers at a very disadvantaged position. A primary benefit of birth control being given to teenagers is that it would increase their awareness at a very early age.Awareness of the birth control methods through proper education is not a means of preparing them to have sex. Rather, it is a means of preparing them to live healthy and responsible teenage lives. This would enable them to instill a sense of heightened awareness before they decide to engage in se x. The act of engaging into sexual intercourse by teenagers could not be avoided because of the stage of puberty they are going through. This is especially true with teenagers with teenagers with weak social support groups.Likewise, the awareness they receive at an early age would become a tool they could use to decide whether they would want to engage in sexual intercourse or not. With the use of the information they are properly provided, they would have the chance to enhance their decision-making skills and would give the chance to make informed decisions. In addition to an informed judgment, birth control would prevent unwanted pregnancies and would reduce the number of teenage parents. This would provide a great benefit for the USA in relation to the latest statistics on teenage pregnancies.According to the report, â€Å"The United States has the highest rates of teen pregnancy and births in the western industrialized world. Teen pregnancy costs the United States at least $9 b illion annually† (Teenpregnancy. org). With the alarming rate of teenage pregnancies today, it is best to mitigate the impact of such and help these teenagers as early as possible. It should be taken into account that the introduction of birth control to teenagers should be accompanied by several other factors for it to be considered as a successful one.First, it should have with it the proper information as stated earlier. Factors that should be considered when making the awareness campaign would have to be that it contains the proper use of such, its importance especially to the teenage group, the purpose behind it, and the persons or organizations to whom teenagers could talk to about this. It should be clearly shown that the purpose for giving them birth control is not to persuade them into having teenage sex. Rather, it is to prepare them and inform them about the risks and importance of planning for their future.Second, the important social support groups should constant ly give teenagers with advice with regard to sensitive issues related to birth control. They would serve as the ones who would reinforce the values laid down by proper information dissemination. Third, trust should be given by parents to their children when it comes to birth control. Along with trust should be the constant reminder of the things they need to do. More often than not, barriers to communication between the parents and the teenagers result to disagreements between the two and would even bring them dissatisfaction and rebellion.There is nothing wrong with teenagers receiving birth control especially so that abstinence is a form that is advocated by both religious and civic groups and is included in the list of birth control methods. This brings further light to the fact that birth control does not enhance the sexual activity of teenagers. Being the most vulnerable of them all, the opportunity to be protected, educated, and provided with birth control methods should never be taken away from them. It is a right which should be given to all women and men alike and to all age groups. Works Cited Avert. org.Birth Control and Contraception for Teenagers. 26 June 2007. Avert. 22 August 2008 [http://www. avert. org/cpills. htm]. â€Å"Birth Control. † In Microsoft ® Student 2007 [DVD]. Redmond, WA: Microsoft Corporation, 2006. Greenfield, Marjorie. Myths and Realities about Giving the Pill to Preteens, Teens. 2 August 2008. The Dr. Spock Company. 22 August 2008 [http://www. drspock. com/article/0,1510,6127,00. html]. Teenpregnancy. org. General Facts and Stats. November 2006. The National Campaign to Prevent Teen and Unplanned Pregnancy. 22 August 2008 [http://www. teenpregnancy. org/resources/data/genlfact. asp].