A letter from Banquo Essay

I write to all of you hoping that this letter will find you in the best of health. As all of you know, in the past few days Scotland was struck with a great misfortune when King Duncan was gruesomely murdered in his sleep while on his visit to Macbeth. And I have reason to believe that Macbeth is the one responsible for King Duncan’s murder because he had the motive and the opportunity to do so. And as I recall our encounter with the three witches when we were returning from the battlefield I realize that the witch’s prophesy to Macbeth, â€Å"All hail, Macbeth! that shalt be king hereafter† [Act1, Scene3,Line54] has embedded in him a desire to rule and be king which was further implanted deeper in him by his wife whose grandfather, Kenneth III was overthrown by King Duncan’s ancestor, Malcolm II, many years ago and was waiting for a chance to avenge her grandfather’s death. But what Macbeth didn’t realize was that he had started to believe what he wanted and did not see the three witches for what they really are. And with each day passing by Macbeth thought more and more of the prophecy that he shall be king until it was the day to name an heir to the throne of Scotland during which King Duncan named Malcolm as the heir. As Macbeth watched I overheard him talking to himself and saying â€Å"The Prince of Cumberland! that is a step on which I must fall down, or else o’er-leap, For in my way it lies. Stars, hide your fires; Let not light see my black and deep desires.† [Act1, Scene4, Lines55-58] which shows that Macbeth was seriously thinking about the throne and the prophecy. It seemed as if greed, ambition and voracity were beginning to take hold of Macbeth. And on the night we escorted King Duncan on his visit to Macbeth’s castle, I  noticed how Macbeth didn’t come out to welcome the King like Lady Macbeth did. Instead he only showed up at dinner time. And after everybody went to their rooms Macbeth came to my room and we agreed to discuss the prophecies at a later time. But I also said to Macbeth, † So I lose none in seeking to augment it, but still keep my bosom franchised and allegiance clear, I shall be counsell’d.† [Act2, Scene1, Lines32-35] hoping that this will stop Macbeth from thinking that I will help him make the prophecy true. Nevertheless what I had feared the most happened on that night; King Duncan was murdered. And as we all came to see what happened I could see a look of fear and guilt in Macbeth’s eyes. I realized that Macbeth had done what he wanted to in order to make the prophecy true. However Macbeth had not only killed his King who praised him for his courage and his valor, he also killed his cousin who was of his own flesh and blood. Indeed! What a true cousin Macbeth is. He was no different from the butcher who kills innocent lambs. All this time he thought that killing King Duncan would make the prophecies true but he never realized that he was deceiving and leading himself into a pit of trouble. None of us could have imagined that the courageous soldier who was loyal to his king could be easily corrupted by the witches’ prophecies. We all knew Macbeth as the soldier who fought for his king without mercy but it appears that his strive for ambition and his insurgent desire made him kill his own king and cousin without mercy. And if any one among you still does not believe that Macbeth is responsible for King Duncan’s murder then think back as to who had the strongest motive to kill the King and who could have done the crime without being suspected easily. It is Macbeth. My fellow Scots I believe that now we should take action against Macbeth for it shall be unjust if we let him go without punishing him for his bloody deed. In the end I hope that you may have found my letter convincing enough and I am certain that all of you will do what is best for Scotland.

Nursing Home Abuse Essay

Approximately 1.4 million elderly people reside in long term care facilities, such as nursing homes. The families that admit their loved ones to these long term care facilities believe that excellent care is being provided to them. Many of the residents in nursing home settings receive adequate health care, but a numerous amount of other residents are subjected to abuse and neglect. It is believed that nearly one-third of all nursing homes have residents that are subjected to abuse either by staff or other residents (Masters in Health Care). Definitions of elder abuse vary. It is difficult to pinpoint exactly what actions or inactions constitute abuse. Besides a variety of definitions, the major types of abuse that occur in nursing homes are categorized into physical abuse, sexual abuse, emotional or psychological abuse, neglect, abandonment, financial or material exploitation. The solution to such nursing home abuse is rather simple. To prevent the inhumane treatment of the elderly in nursing homes, the nursing shortage needs to be addressed. The scandal of elder abuse in nursing homes appears to be new phenomena, but in reality this god forsaken crime has occurred for decades. Due to an elder’s physical and cognitive make up, they are not able to defend themselves from the heinous acts of abuse by their caregivers. Abuse in nursing homes is mainly thought of as physical aggression, but the elderly are subjected to psychological abuse also. One would think that no man or woman could commit abuse onto a helpless individual; however the issue of elderly abuse in nursing homes has been a growing problem. In 2003, there were 20,673 complaints of abuse, gross neglect, and exploitation on behalf of nursing home and â€Å"board and care† residents (American Association for Justice). By 2010 the number of elderly abuse complaints rose to a number between one million and two million (National Center on Elder Abuse). A study prepared by the staff of the Special Investigations Division of the House Government Reform Committee found that thirty percent of nursing homes in the United States (5,283 facilities) were cited for almost nine-thousand instances of abuse over a recent two year period. The common problems of the study included untreated bedsores, inadequate medical care, malnutrition, dehydration, preventable accidents, and inadequate sanitation and hygiene. These common problems can be categorized into the major types of elder abuse in nursing homes. Physical abuse, sexual abuse, psychological abuse, neglect, abandonment, and financial exploitation are considered the major types of such abuse. Physical abuse is defined by the use of physical force that may result in bodily injury, physical pain, or impairment. Physical abuse may include but is not limited to such acts of violence as striking (with or without an object), hitting, beating, pushing, shoving, shaking, slapping, kicking, pinching, and burning. In addition, inappropriate use of drugs and physical restraints, force-feeding, and physical punishment of any kind also are examples of physical abuse (National Center on Elder Abuse). Nearly sixteen-percent of nursing home abuse cases involve physical abuse (Brent & Adams). An article published by ABC news interviewed Helen Love, a 75 year-old grandmother of three that was a victim of nursing home abuse. Helen told ABC, â€Å"He choked me and he went and broke my neck. He broke my wrist bones, in my hand. He put his hand over my mouth.† Two days after the interview, Helen Love died. Nursing home officials did not report her beating to a state official who was at the nursing home at the time. Ultimately, though, Love’s attacker served a year in prison. An investigation revealed that he had been fired by two previous nursing homes for aggressive behavior. A report by the Senate Select Committee on Aging found that many nursing home abuse cases are not immediately reported to law enforcement official (Robinson). In fact, a recent report indicated that one in fourteen incidents of elder abuse where not reported to the authorities (American Association of Justice). Emotional or psychological abuse is defined as the infliction of anguish, pain, or distress through verbal or nonverbal acts. Emotional/psychological abuse includes but is not limited to verbal assaults, insults, threats, intimidation, humiliation, and harassment. In addition, treating an older person like an infant; isolating an elderly person from his/her family, friends, or regular activities; giving an older person the â€Å"silent treatment† and enforced social isolation are examples of emotional/psychological abuse (National Center on Elder Abuse). Almost twenty percent of reported elder abuse cases involve emotional abuse (Brent & Adams). With emotional abuse being the most abundant, it is also the most difficult to define. Emotional abuse is purely subjective which therefore is difficult to reprimand nurses against these crimes. The other major crimes however are objective, and are more easy to identify, such as neglect. Neglect is defined as the refusal or failure to fulfill any part of a person’s obligations or duties to an elder. Neglect may also include failure of a person who has fiduciary responsibilities to provide care for an elder (e.g., pay for necessary home care services) or the failure on the part of an in-home service provider to provide necessary care (National Center on Elder Abuse). According to Brent & Adams, twelve percent of abuse cases involve caretaker neglect. Neglect typically means the refusal or failure to provide an elderly person with such life necessities as food, water, clothing, shelter, personal hygiene, medicine, comfort, personal safety, and other essentials included in an implied or agreed-upon responsibility to an elder (National Center on Elder Abuse). The Federal Bureau of Investigation published an article in May of 2012 about a case of nursing home neglect. The owner of three Georgia nursing homes, George Dayln Houser, was convicted in Atlanta of defrauding Medicare and Medicaid for $32.9 million dollars. To receive Medicare and Medicaid payments, Houser agreed to provide his residents with a safe and clean physical environment, nutritional meals, medical care, and other assistance. Houser not only failed to maintain a nursing staff sufficient to take proper care of the residents but did not pay food suppliers or providers of pharmacy and clinical laboratory services, medical waste disposal, trash disposal, and nursing supplies (FBI). Neglect, alongside physical abuse, are the most detrimental to a residents health. Not only do caregivers subject their residents to the atrocious crimes of neglect, but they also exploit them financially and materially. Financial or material exploitation is defined as the illegal or improper use of an elder’s funds, property, or assets. Examples include, but are not limited to, cashing an elderly person’s checks without authorization or permission; forging an older person’s signature; misusing or stealing an older person’s money or possessions; coercing or deceiving an older person into signing any document; and the improper use of conservatorship, guardianship, or power of attorney (National Center on Elder Abuse). In 2009, a Chicago nursing home worker faced financial exploitation and aggravated identification theft charges for allegedly stealing $4,008 from a Illinois nursing home. The criminal remained free on bail and was fired from the Illinois nursing home. Authorities acknowledge that the criminal had a previous criminal conviction for forgery (Nursing Home Blog). The major types of nursing home abuse have a direct correlation to inadequate staffing levels. A recent statistic by the American Association for Justice, found that ninety-percent of United States nursing homes had staffing levels too low to provide sufficient care. Residents of those nursing homes falling below minimal staffing standards are much more likely to develop bedsores and experience excessive weight loss than those in other nursing homes. This is because enough staff must be available so that all residents who cannot eat by themselves receive help. Also, unless immobile elderly residents are repositioned frequently, they may develop bedsores. To add to the problem, understaffing contributes to low morale and frustration among employees, decreasing their ability to deal with residents patiently and respectfully. According to the American Association for Justice, a series of reports revealed that many nursing homes do not have enough staff to meet the levels recommended by federal officials (3.45 nursing hours per patient daily) and nursing home experts (4.55 nursing hours per patient). Insufficient hours per patient hosts all sorts of potential problems for nursing care, the most problematic being neglect. Many nursing home residents need constant nursing attention to ensure that they do not develop medical problems. In many cases, residents need to be turned, moved, or given skin assessments to avoid developing pressure ulcers or from forming deadly blood clots. John A. Fisher, Ph. D, said there have been an alarming amount of recent cases in which New York nursing homes have been found liable for elder abuse after a resident died or was injured due to inadequate care. In every case, inadequate staffing was named as a contributing factor to the cause of the abuse. With inadequate staffing being the undeniable cause of nursing home abuse, how does the projected nursing shortage effect this issue? The projected nursing shortage in the United States is expected to intensify as baby boomers age and the need for health care grows. â€Å"In the July/August 2009 Health Affairs, Dr. Peter Buerhaus and coauthors found that despite the current easing of the nursing shortage due to the recession, the U.S. nursing shortage is projected to grow to 260,000 registered nurses by 2025. A shortage of this magnitude would be twice as large as any nursing shortage experienced in this country since the mid-1960s. In the article titled The Recent Surge In Nurse Employment: Causes And Implications, the researchers point to a rapidly aging workforce as a primary contributor to the projected shortage (American Association of Colleges of Nursing).† In some instances today, nurses are forced to attend to 20 patients at a time, and that is at the lower part on the nurse- patient spectrum. Federal law requires Medicare and Medicaid certified nursing homes to have an registered nurse (RN) director of nursing (DON); an RN on duty at least 8 hours a day, 7 days a week; and a licensed nurse (RN or LPN) on duty the rest of the time. However, there are no minimum staffing levels for nurse’s aides, who provide most of the day-to-day care. Instead, nursing homes are required â€Å"to provide sufficient staff and services to attain or maintain the highest possible level of physical, mental, and psychosocial well-being of each resident. (Elder Law Answers)† If a nursing home met only the federal nurse staffing requirements described above, a resident would receive 20 minutes of nurse time per day. In 2000, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) reported that the preferred minimum staffing level was when nursing home residents received three hours of total staff time per day — two hours of nursing assistant time and one hour of licensed nurse time. The optimum staffing level, according to the CMS, is one hour of licensed nurse time and three hours of nursing assistant time (Elder Law Answers). Most states have standards that are higher than the federal requirements, but still fall short of the levels recommended by the CMS. According to a recent study, the key to improving nursing home staffing levels is increasing state standards. The study by Charlene Harrington, a UCSF School of Nursing professor, found that states with the highest standards for nursing staff levels are the only states where nursing homes have enough staff to prevent serious safety violations. According to the study, the act of raising the state minimum staffing ratio has a direct impact on the quality of care nursing home residents receive. With such an impact that state and federal standards have on quality of care, how can the state enforce nursing homes to follow such mandates? According to an article published by nursing home reality endorsed by Aaron Delurey, the best way to ensure that residents are receiving an ample amount of care is for state officials to introduce these three procedures: Have each state mandate an increase in the percentage of surprise inspections that must take place outside of regular business hours on weekdays. Second, require management personnel to work staggered shits all the time, not just when the state is in their building. Why require this change? When the management is out of the building the quality of care given often suffers. Third and foremost, when the state shows up for an any kind of inspection, the inspectors should immediately seize the payroll data to verify staffing levels for the 14 continuous days immediately prior to the inspection. The inspectors should also insist that while they are in the building that no additional staff can be called in. These procedures would ultimately address the nursing shortage, therefore depleting the abuse within nursing homes.

Nutrition of Young Athletes

Nutrition for Young Athletes Heather Rushing Houston Community College November 11, 2011 Abstract Research surrounding the nutrition of young athletes suggests that they are at risk for becoming deficient in most of their vital nutrients. Most parents agree there is concern for this issue, but they fear they do not have enough information on how to fix the problem. This literature review includes several professionals and experienced groups’ opinions and highlights the ways to tackle the issue of nutritional deficiencies and the many pressures young athletes face. Nutrition for Young AthletesYoung athletes face a multitude of challenges especially those that surround their diet. The social, emotional, and physical aspects of their growing bodies can present unique dilemmas that parents of young athletes may not know how to approach. When training them on the proper techniques to be an all-star player it should always include a well-balanced diet along with positive affirmation s. For those who are looking for solutions to a proper diet for young athletes, busy lifestyles, pre and post activity meals and emotional pressures dietitians and doctors are finding the right information.It may be demanding for parents when one or more of their children are athletes. This can challenge their abilities to multi-task and unhealthy food choices may result from a hectic family sporting lifestyle. Carmen, a mom and article writer from gatorade. com, gives the busy parent helpful tips on how to choose better options from fast-food menus. Treating the family does not have to consist of greasy burgers and fries every time one visits McDonald’s, but choosing one of their snack wraps loaded with grilled chicken and the salad with no dressing will only amount to 300 calories (Carmen, 2011).Even Starbuck’s now offers on-the-go choices that include fresh fruit plates with cheese and protein packed plates that include hard boiled eggs and peanut butter. It is impo rtant to remember that proteins are just one of the many nutrients needed to complete a well-balanced diet for budding athletes. The University of Waikato in New Zealand offers plenty of information for a parent in search of what particular nutrients are needed and in what amounts. The nutrients that should compose young athlete’s diet are under two categories, Micro and Macro.Under the micronutrient category are calcium, iron, B-complex vitamins, and zinc. These vitamins and minerals are only needed in small amounts but are essential to the growth and development of children including their immune functions (The University of Waikato, 2011). Macronutrients, which are needed in large amounts, include the energy supplier’s carbohydrates, proteins, and fats (The University of Waikato, 2011). Current research suggests that more young athletes are showing deficiencies in all of these nutrients (Nisevich, 2008).To gain the proper amounts of vitamins and nutrients one should look first to food sources. Although there are vitamin supplements for young children, supplements are not the ideal source for these nutrients. Calcium rich foods such as milk, broccoli and other green vegetables support the growth of bones and increase their mass; they also help in the contraction of muscles and the impulses of nerves (Nisevich, 2008). Iron, which can be found in meat and beans, is â€Å"a major player in the role of energy metabolism of carbohydrates, protein, and fats† (Nisevich, 2008, para. ). Zinc and B-complex vitamins which include folic acid, niacin, riboflavin, B6, B12 and thiamin are used primarily to help the blood. Zinc supports tissue growth and wound healing while B-complex vitamins help to keep muscles from getting sore and maintain cognitive brain function (Nisevich, 2008). If a diet is well-balanced in meats, fish, beans, and diary those vitamins and minerals should be in adequate levels within the body. Consciously selecting what goes in t he bodies is the key to living and performing at one’s best.When young athletes are exposed to strenuous workouts pre and post activity meals as well as proper hydration are all crucial for their bodies. Activities lasting for at least one and half to two hours should be considered strenuous, especially sports such as rowing, cross-country running, and competitive swimming (Gavin, 2011). On a big day of activities meals should be given three hours prior to the event that deliver ample amounts of carbohydrates and low fats (Gavin, 2011).These types of food are converted into energy and the body will utilize them throughout the activity. Adding good carbohydrates such as whole grain cereals with low fat milk, peanut butter on whole wheat toast with half an apple, or lean meat on a pita with orange juice are ways to pack energy boosting foods into snacks (Baylor College of Medicine, 2004). Planning a healthy snack can benefit young athletes especially during performances. Before , during, and after an event are times when it is crucial to hydrate. It is needed on many levels for the body to function properly.Water supplies energy, strength as well as coordination and parents, coaches and young athletes should know that â€Å"even mild dehydration can affect performance† (Gavin, 2011, pg. 2). According to Collins (2007), a noted dietitian, drinking 5-9 ounces of water every 15-20 minutes depending on age and size is recommended. Collins (2007) also mentions that parents can weigh children before and after an event to determine how much fluid has been lost, drinking one cup per half pound they have lost will replenish their bodies.According to a known medical educator, Mary Gavin (2011), â€Å"after exercising for sixty to ninety minutes, the body has used up its readily available sources of energy; so sports drinks may be a good choice for kids who participate in strenuous activity for more than an hour† (p. 2). The nutrients in sports drinks s uch as sodium and potassium are exactly what athlete’s need when they are active for long periods to replace what was lost through sweat, but water should still be their main source of hydration (Gavin, 2011). Sports have long been associated with proving how tough you are through stamina and strength.In my opinion, these attributes can be helpful as well as harmful to an impressionable child athlete. Teammates that seem â€Å"stronger and better† can create a poor self-image within a young athlete who doesn’t feel he or she fits the physical criteria that coaches are looking for. Devastating effects can result from forcing the body to achieve optimal appearance. Athletes may increase weight and mass by overeating to try and reach desired outcomes while unknowingly putting their selves at risk. â€Å"When a person overeats, the food the body can’t immediately use gets stored as fat† (Gavin, 2011, p. ). Other types of athletes may try crash diets to lose weight for sports like wrestling, gymnastics, swimming and dance. This behavior leads to â€Å"less strength and endurance and poor mental concentration† (Gavin, 2011, p. 2). It is easy to buckle under the pressures of sports, but an emphasis on positive self talk and giving pats on the back for a job well done go a long way in a child. Reminding a child that it is just a game and everyone gets hurt and feels pain can bring feelings of lowered self-confidence into perspective.When the media splashes drug use and misconduct of famous athletes who children idolize in the news can create challenges for the child and the parent. It may help to explain the hard realities of the pressures to performance to a child by instilling simple values that shape their existence. In my opinion, simple values will give them a firm footing in life and a level head when they are faced with challenging life decisions. The list of questions concerning nutritious foods and sports pressures ar e endless.The known facts about micro- and macro-nutrients help tremendously when it comes to preparing snacks for young athletes and their sporting events. Fast-food choices can now be made without ruining the waistline from meals that contain excess calories and fat, therefore giving relief to busy parents of young athletes. Overeating and under eating are becoming a higher priority among doctors, dietitians and parents. As the pressure to perform is increasing, the need to educate young athletes and their parents on proper nutrition is paramount.The parent’s ability to obtain accurate information about nutrition from trusted bloggers, doctors, and dietitians can make the process of raising healthy young athletes much easier. References Baylor College of Medicine (2004, November 4). Proper nutrition should be part of training young athletes. Retrieved from Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, USDA/ARS Children’s Nutrition Research Center website: http://www. bcm. edu /cnrc/consumer/archives/athletes. htm Carmen 5, CafeMom user (2011, October 11). Articles & Advice [Supplemental material]. Healthier Fast Food Options.Retrieved from http://www. gatorade. com Collins, K. (2007, May 25). Nutrition Notes [Supplemental material]. Fuel your young athlete for peak performance. Timing, size and type of meals matter—so do fluids. Retrieved from http://www. msnbc. msn. com Gavin, M. L. (2011, November). Feeding Your Child Athlete. Retrieved from The Nemours Foundation, Kids Health website: http://www. kidshealth. org/parent/nutrition_center/dietary_needs/feed_child_athlete. html# Nisevich, P. M. (2008, March). Sports Nutrition for Young Athletes: Vital to Victory. Today’s Dietitian, 10, no. 3, 44. Retrieved from

English Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 1

English - Essay Example It could be an advantage to the agency to dismiss her as it will protect the agency from any further leaks from McCarthy. Another reason I can find for firing McCarthy is the fact that her action broke the agreement of secrecy required by any agent of the CIA. (Shrader,) Again, this means that McCarthy cannot be trusted; however this may not be reason enough to dismiss her. A disadvantage of firing McCarthy is that the media will most likely support McCarthy as it is favorable for the media to take the side of someone who is apparently being fired unfairly. Also, the President may not agree as his interests don't always agree with those of the CIA, according to Senator Menendez. (Shrader) In order to avoid opposition from the president and from the media I feel it might be best to place McCarthy under probation and if it is found she is not to be trusted I will have a solid reason to dismiss McCarthy. I failed one polygraph test and now my job is on the line. (Shrader) I'm sure they want to fire me. I need to gather my thoughts together and analyze this situation. I've already confessed the leak and that could work in my favor. I also need to determine what reasons the agency may have for firing me and not firing me and act accordingly.

Law Enforcement in the USA Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3750 words

Law Enforcement in the USA - Research Paper Example The aims of local law enforcement agencies include the uploading laws in the jurisdiction they are created, undertaking patrol and investigation of local crimes. State law enforcement agency: the jurisdiction of state law enforcement agency cover a state and aid the local law enforcement agency in investigating crimes that extend beyond the jurisdiction and resources of the local law enforcement agency. Highway patrol and statewide investigations are undertaken by state law enforcement agency and undertake investigations covering several localities but within the state. Investigations within the state are conducted by state law enforcement agency, and when they surpass their jurisdiction through covering more than one state, they are undertaken by federal law enforcement. Inclusive of the state law enforcement agency are government department enforcement divisions including state hospitals, water, environment, capital, and campus police to ensure law enforcement in these departments and have statewide jurisdiction and full police powers. County law enforcement agency: they exist in metropolitan counties, and their jurisdiction covers the whole county. Three categories of county law enforcement agency service exist including full service that entails the provision of all police services to the entire county including contractual security to the county’s special districts.

Critical Analysis, Compare and Contrast Characters Essay

Critical Analysis, Compare and Contrast Characters - Essay Example The central character of the play, Clay has been presented as a twenty-year-old black man, or, a Negro. Here the playwright presents the Negro as the one compromising his own identity in order to maintain a peaceful relationship with his white oppressors. The playwright presents Clay as a typical bourgeois black male that Lula, his co-passenger, the representative of the whites, could easily recognize his life history. His way of dressing, style of speech and his demeanor help her recognizing his class, intellectual capacity and his very nature with full of pretensions. The story of the play occurs in the train journey where Clay is attracted to the sexy, young woman, Lula, who begins a taunting seduction of him and invites herself along to his friend’s party. But she suddenly violent racist words against him. Though Clay tries to control her with intellectual dexterity, he fails in his attempt and retaliates by slapping her twice and says that neuroses of black men can be cur ed with her murder. But she stabs him when he made his apology for his actions and bend to take his shoes. After murdering him, she instructs other passengers to help her to throw his body out of the train. The play ends when Lula approaches another black man in the same way she approached Clay by giving the audience the hint that the attitude of the whites to the blacks have a continuity. Walker Vessels is the central character of Amiri Baraka’s popular play The Slave. The play has been subtitled as "A Fable in a Prologue and Two Acts," in which an old field-slave, Walker Vessels provides a brief introduction to the play in the Prologue. When the play begins he appears on the stage as Black revolutionary Walker Vessels. Vessel meets with his former wife Grace, a White woman, to take his children with him. Vessels kills Grace's husband (Easley) as a Black revolutionary and appears as the old field-slave, as appeared in the prologue, when the play is concluded. The comparative study of the two characters brings out similarities as well as differences between the two characters, Walker Vessels in The Slave and Clay in Dutchman. The most important comparison between them is that both of them are Black Americans who had to undergo severe neglect and are subjected for mental torture. It is the ill treatment from the part of Lula that makes clay reacting and the same leads him to his tragic death. Regarding Vessels, he was also confronted with the neglecting attitude of his former wife, Easley, a white woman. But contrary to the behavior of Clay, Vessels decides to protest against the injustice and kills Easley’s husband and gets back his children, though it is not sure whether they survived war. Baraka presents the character of Vessels in a peculiar way; a person one who fluctuates from laughter to anger, from tenderness to cruelty, from Standard English to Black English; he even dances and makes up a song (Barrios). Comparing to Clay, Vessel is an el oquent person that he could use every means to express himself. A close observation of his way of expression reveals that his taking action is not only shown in his overt militancy but implicit in his spoken and body language of gesture and movement as well (Barrios). Comparing Vessel to a saxophone; which can produce different notes and sounds that convey multiple moods will be quite apt to describe his character. But Clay is not a man who tries to meddle

Physiology and Function Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words - 1

Physiology and Function - Essay Example In this regard, the atria facilitate the circulation by fundamentally allowing continuous venous flow to the heart during pulsation (Anderson, 1993). The Endocardium is the innermost layer of tissues that line the heart’s atrial and ventricular chambers. Since it underlies the muscular tissues that control the contraction of the heart, the endocardium provides feedback control to the heart through its interaction with the coalescing blood (Brutsaert, 1989). The pulmonary artery, which is located directly beneath the aorta, carries blood to the lungs from the right ventricle. It is important to point out that, this is the only artery that carries deoxygenated blood. In this regard, the artery carries the blood to the lungs for oxygenation in order to support the cardiovascular system (Halpern, 2011). The heart is divided into four chambers with the two lower chambers being the right and left ventricles. On one hand, the right ventricle is responsible for receiving blood and pumping it into the pulmonary artery where blood that is poor in oxygen is oxygenated and returns to the heart via pulmonary veins. Conversely, the left ventricle pumps blood to the aorta after obtaining it from the left atrium, which distributes blood to the rest of the body (Anderson,

Company Analysis for Yahoo Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3500 words

Company Analysis for Yahoo - Research Paper Example Basically, Yahoo was only accessible by the two engineering students but because they had created a web interface that had allowed other people to access to their guide and because of apparent knowledge of Yahoo and its existence in lieu of the word of mouth and electronic mail, more people began using their web site and because of Yahoo's strong as well as positive impact to the people and the society amicably, Yahoo has a complex environment. Due to this complexity, the department is considering all the factors that affect its task environments. Some factors such as political-legal and economic climates are encouraging to the growth of the department. However, the sociocultural climate is posing a challenge. Nevertheless, Yahoo is generally having a stable environment. The political-legal climate of corporations globally has been generally encouraging. This is especially for yahoo in which it reciprocates the government's trust on the company by sharing 30 percent of its shares to the government. Likewise, the economic climate globally has seen the growth of systems of wealth production, distribution and consumption. However, inflations and recessions affect the operation of Yahoo. These are the factors over which we have little control. The sociocultural climate represents the attitudes, values, norms, beliefs, behaviours and associated demographic characteristics of the population within which an organisation operates (Daft 1997, p. 78). In operating and managing Yahoo applications that support users, we have to consider our customers' values and beliefs. To do this we conduct studies to identify the concerns of our customers. The technological climate includes scientific and technological advancements in the production of goods and services (Dahlgren and Whitehead, 1991). Technology for Yahoo is of particular importance because it has been and continues to be the main source of increases in productivity, which means it can either provide a competitive advantage to organisations that can use it effectively, or pose a threat to those that lack it. To remain competitive therefore, it is important that we need to understand current technology developments affecting their ability to offer desirable products and services. The pace of change in that industry, of course, is accelerating, and its scope and impact are widening. Spectators of the technology can trace that change from the earliest antecedents of Yahoo, to the most recent developments. Spectators can also scan the entire Yahoo continuum from the 19th century to the 21st or pinpoint, year by year or decade by decade, but the focus of this paper will only be from 1998 to 2003. These are the years and key events that have led to the Yahoo of today and it has shown through the use of the company's corporate strategy. It is said that people are living through an era in which organizations

Discipline and Punish by Michel Foucault Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Discipline and Punish by Michel Foucault - Essay Example Thesis: Power was the fulcrum around which all else revolved during the Classical period and through Foucault’s examples and arguments we understand how the body was debased through coercion and control, but gradually there came about a shift in power relations which we are experiencing today. In Foucault’s words - â€Å"Perhaps we should abandon the belief that power makes mad and that, by the same token, the renunciation of power is one of the conditions of knowledge. We should admit, rather, that power produces knowledge†¦.† (Michael Foucault, 1977, pp. 27/28) According to Foucault, both power and knowledge compliment each other and go hand in hand together. He explains that power relations cannot exist without the field of knowledge and in the same way, it is knowledge that contributes towards power relations. In Part I, Foucault speaks about torture that was used as a tool to discipline the body during the 18th century, giving us examples of torturous p enalties that were meted out during those days such as public executions. E.g. Damien’s torture (pgs. 3-5) This period of torture resulted in the ushering in of a new penal system for Europe and the United States. New theories involving law and crime were introduced while the ancient laws and customs were discarded and the new reforms were based on the political justification of punishment. According to Foucault, â€Å"justice no longer takes public responsibility for the violence that is bound up with its practice†¦Ã¢â‚¬  (Michael Foucault, 1977, p.9) However, with the introduction of the new penal system in our society today, judges have to judge something more than the crime and part of their powers are distributed to other authorities. â€Å"Today, criminal justice functions and justifies itself only by this perpetual reference to something other than itself, by this unceasing reinscription in non-juridical systems.   It’s fate is to be redefined by knowl edge† (22). In Part II, Foucault sheds light on ‘Punishment’. During this period punitive practices were redefined through refinement. Cold blooded criminality morphed into a criminality of fraud. This complex mechanism laid more emphasis and value on more stringent methods of surveillance and effective techniques of getting information which critics called ‘a bad economy of power.’ (79) The eighteenth century saw many reforms in the legal system such as new techniques and tactics for refining and regularizing the art of punishment and reducing the economic and political costs by making it more effective. In Part III, Foucault discusses about ‘Docile bodies’ that was directed towards coercion and supervising the activity rather than the result. In Foucault’s opinion, discipline serves to create docile bodies by disassociating the power from the body. On one hand, it increases an individuals capacity and aptitude but on the other ha nd, it arrests the flow of energy and brings about subjection. According to Foucault, â€Å"disciplinary coercion establishes in the body, the constricting link between an increased aptitude and an increased domination† (138) Among Foucault’s Disciplinary techniques, the one I have chosen for discussion is – ‘Control of Activity.’ Foucault describes discipline as a constant controlling of the activities,

Its an Argument-Source Paper on American Social Problems... My topic Research Proposal

Its an Argument-Source Paper on American Social Problems... My topic is Alcoholism - Research Proposal Example It is not only the media to blame for the radical directional change; the government has contributed to this course overwhelmingly by failing to enact stiffer laws to control alcohol consumption. By failing to launch massive anti-alcoholism campaigns, the government and the media have failed many families and individuals. The effect of alcoholism on families is immeasurable (Mezzasalma). Sander, when describing what became of their family when his father was enslaved by alcoholism says, â€Å""My brother became a rebel, my sister retreated to shyness†¦" (67). He further reiterates that what he considered â€Å"a private grief† was actually, â€Å"a public scourge† (138). As such, alcoholism qualifies to be a social problem that affects all the societal aspects, legal, economic, and political (Oshea 14). Quitting alcohol is a momentous task that requires everyone’s involvement and the government and the media cannot relent (Pittman 18). It is high time that all stakeholders should stand to be counted for doing what is right, regardless of the political implication, to fight alcoholism. Alcoholism is a monster that has destroyed many resourceful persons, broken many families, and cost lives and should be fought at all cost. Mezzasalma, Lorena. "Characteristics of Alcoholics Attending Clubs of Alcoholics in Treatmentà ¢ in Italy: A National Survey ." Oxford Journals | Medicine | Alcohol and Alcoholism. N.p., 3 Nov. 2011. Web. 3 May

Tti Case Study Essay Example for Free

Tti Case Study Essay TTI is located in Fort Worth, Texas and operates as a specialty distributor of passive, interconnect, and discrete components. â€Å"TTI’s mission is to be the most preferred electronics distributor for their customers and suppliers, deliver the right parts exactly on time, and to exceed their internal and external customer requirements through continuous improvement, while providing a home for hardworking, dedicated, knowledgeable, and ethical people who believe in this Company and this philosophy. † (TTI, Website, 2011) Within this case study we are reviewing the potential effects that TTI would be faced with if they decided to place a Distribution Center (DC) in Asia. From the case study we learn that TTI saw two separate marketing trends on the horizon. The two trends Craig Conrad, Vice President of Sales for TTI, toiled with were that of globalization and customer demand for local inventory to just-in-time objectives. Paul Andrews, founder and president of TTI, and Conrad both were aware that some customers believed TTI needed a foreign presence. Globalization within TTI’s customer base was rapidly growing as was the expectation from the customers for TTI to become global distributor. Andrew’s main concern with placing a DC in Asia was that TTI would stretch their resources to thin leading to damaged customer service. In the 1990’s TTI had opened sales branches in Europe, Canada, and Latin America. A DC was opened in Munich, but did not share the same success as the Fort Worth DC. This caused management to rethink the potential of opening other international DC’s. During this time the auto replenishment process was on the rise, but TTI management feared that this process could not service customers overseas. The case study specifically sites these three concerns management had: 1. How much would the new facility and personnel cost? 2. Would TTI’s culture of excellence be maintainable in the foreign market? 3. Would the local market support the cost of the new facility? In particular, how much business required a local presence (VMI) as opposed to how much could be done form Fort Worth or Munich? TTI was seeing Asia quickly become the fastest growing electronics market during the 1990’s and customers wanted to carry their operations overseas while maintaining the VMI and auto replenishment process that TTI had developed in this US. Because of the limited success TTTI had experienced in the previously mentioned ventures this caused great concern. However, as stated in the case, VMI and Auto replenishment made up 50% of TTI’s business and it was critical that they weight their options carefully. TTI knew that customers were moving toward globalization and that Asia was a hot spot for this move. This forced TTI to evaluate the possibility of creating a DC in Asia which had the potential to eventually generate 20% of TTI’s overall sales. Some strategic suppliers TTI had long standing relationships with had already moved to China and the Philippines. If TTI did not set up a local DC in Asia this meant the company was looking at accruing an additional 10% shipping charge per product and that was just for a one way shipment. The challenge for Conrad was to make sure that the overall expense of opening the new DC would not cost more than overseas shipping charges. The other concern Paul Andrews had was whether or not the locals in Asia could operate under the same cooperate structure that was established in the US. If the same cooperate culture could not be met then Andrews would not consider opening the DC in Asia. The three locations TTI considered for establishing this DC were Hong Kong, Singapore, and Malaysia. Each location had different benefits. Hong Kong was most favorable due to its logistical location. Singapore also had a very favorable location and English was the primary language for the locals. Malaysia was the least expensive of the three, but had the worst logistical position. Selecting the right location was critical to the future success of TTI. In an article written by Karl Heil, he explains the importance of proper location selection. â€Å"If a company selects the wrong location, it may have adequate access to customers, workers, transportation, materials, and so on. Consequently, location often plays a significant role in a companys profit and overall success. A location strategy is a plan for obtaining the optimal location for a company by identifying company needs and objectives, and searching for locations with offerings that are compatible with these needs and objectives. Generally, this means the firm will attempt to maximize opportunity while minimizing costs and risks. † (Heil, 2011) Based off of the comparison chart provided in the case study the location that best maximized the opportunity as well has minimized the cost was the Singapore location. The comparison chart clearly showed Singapore to have the most cost effective location. Hong Kong was competitive, but what really set the two apart was the overall facilities cost. Malaysia’s facility cost was half that of Singapore, however the logistical costs were extremely high. The other benefit that I felt set Singapore apart was the native language. Creating a new DC location was going to be enough of a challenge without having to overcome a language barrier. The fact that English was the native tongue is invaluable for this process. With Singapore being the selected location the next logical step would be to implement a road map on how to set up the new DC. Gross Associates is a firm that specifically helps companies through this process. On the web-site of Gross Associates define the following five steps to assist with the process. â€Å"Determine the requirements the new facility must satisfy. Determine the feasible alternatives to satisfy the projected business requirements. Analyze the viable alternatives, including both quantitative and qualitative aspects. Make and document the rationale for decisions and finally implementation. † (Donald J. Derewecki, 2033) With the rapid growth of globalization I would absolutely have to consider opening a DC in Asia. With suppliers making the move over seas as well as customers it is a natural fit for distribution companies to also make the move. Competitors of TTI were making the jump and if TTI did not follow they were poised to lose a lot of business. Going back to TTI’s mission statement at the beginning of this case study the term â€Å"continuous improvement† was stated. For TTI to continually improve they needed to open the Asian DC. Bibliography Donald J. Derewecki, C. (2033, Unknown Unknown). GRAND OPENINGS: PLANNING A NEW DISTRIBUTION CENTER. Retrieved November 14, 2011, from Gross and Associates: http://www. grossassociates. com/articles/design. htm Heil, K. (2011, unknown unknown). Location Strategy. Retrieved November 13, 2011, from Reference for BusinessEncyclopedia of Business, 2nd ed. : http://www. referenceforbusiness. com/management/Int-Loc/Location-Strategy. html

Paramedic Professionals Essay Example for Free

Paramedic Professionals Essay Although paramedics work alongside other emergency services and health care providers, they are not classified as health care professionals, therefore, working independently from these organisations and autonomously within their own state ambulance organisations. Through exploring the evolution of paramedic practice and their role as a health care provider, the current status of paramedics as a semi profession is explained along with what further development is needed before they become a recognised profession. In understanding how paramedics work autonomously within their own state based organisations, the concept of scope of practice and evidence based practice is explored. Finally by discussing how paramedics are independent, we establish paramedics’ role and position within the Australian Health Care System. A paramedic is a health care professional At present in Australia, paramedics are not classified as registered health care professionals. (Smith 2012) Instead, paramedics are widely regarded as semi-professionals with the potential to become a fully recognised profession in the near future. The definition of profession and the guidelines to become a recognised profession are not black and white. Professions Australia defined a profession as ‘a disciplined group of individuals who adhere to ethical standards and who possess special knowledge and skills in a widely recognised body of learning derived from research, education and training at a high level. ’ (Allied Health Professions Australia 2008: 8) Whilst Wilinsky (1964) describes 4 key elements that are essential for the process of professionalization. These include; the implementation of a unified code of ethics and regulations, attaining professional licencing, registration and accreditation, the establishment of university study and education and the development of full-time occupation and formation of occupational territory. Over the past 20 years the roles of paramedics have changed rapidly, with changes still occurring at the present. Paramedics have transitioned from ‘stretcher bearers’ knew as ambulance officers, to todays’ paramedics who are full time workers and are able to administer extensive pre hospital care. Along with the changes to the nature of the paramedics’ job, there has also been a significant change in the way paramedics are trained. ‘Training for paramedics has transitioned from on the job training provided by State and Territory Ambulance Services to vocational qualifications and more recently, higher education (University) sector qualifications. ’(Williams, Brown, Onsman 2012: 6) These changes to higher education training and full time employment, has allowed for paramedics to move one step closer in becoming a recognised profession. A review of common professional traits suggests two main areas where the discipline falls short and it is that paramedics do not have ‘national registration and regulation resulting in professional self-control and accreditation’ and they do not nationwide qualifications that link from tertiary education to the paramedic services (Williams, Brown, Osman 2012: 1) Firstly, registration in the context of health care professionals, is the process of licensing and registering clinicians to practice at a uniform national standard of care. Productivity Commission 2005 in Williams, Brown, Osman 2012: 7) Registration allows for consistency in education and training nationwide, and ensures paramedics work within the provisions of their scope of practice. (Council of Ambulance Authorities 2008) Secondly, there are no national university standard degree competencies or a national curriculum in relation to paramedic training. This leads to an inconsistency between the curricula taugh t to paramedic students. This is further aggravated by ambulance services as they work independently from the Australian Health care System and of the universities as well. Williams, Brown, Osman 2012) In conclusion, without the implementation of nationwide registration, licensing and education qualifications, paramedics will continue to be recognized as a semi-profession. Operating autonomously Paramedics are allied health care providers who are operating autonomously at a state level within their own ambulance services. The United States National Library of Medicine defines autonomy as the ‘decisions and the freedom to act in accordance with ones professional knowledge base. (Nurs 2010: 1) In the paramedic profession this knowledge base is known as a scope of practice. Within each state based paramedic organisation, there is legislation and guidelines that outline the scope of which a certain qualified paramedic can work in. Scope of practice refers to ‘the extent to w hich providers may render Health care services and the extent they may do so independently and the type of diseases, ailments, and injuries a health care provider may address and what procedures and medication they can provide. ’ (Prats ;amp; Katz 2012: 13) For example, in Queensland, whilst out on road paramedics have the freedom to make their own decisions and judgments based on their knowledge, as long as it is legal in the legislation of the Queensland Ambulance Service Ambulance Service Act 1991 (Qld) and within the scope of practice of the paramedics qualifications. (Queensland Consolidated Acts 2010) As paramedics gain further knowledge and undergo more training, the scope of practice of this paramedic will increase. The larger the scope of practice, the more autonomously the paramedic is able to operate. Currently in Queensland there has been an increased awareness of poorer patient outcomes and difficulties in accessing medical help in rural and remote areas. (Horizon 2007 in O’Meara 2011) In an attempt to increase positive patient outcomes, expanded scope roles have been introduced into the Australian Health Care System, allowing certain paramedics to apply skills and protocols for which they were not originally trained. (Sterling, Pedler, Walker 2007) This increases the paramedics’ autonomy within their field which allows them to work for better patient outcomes. Paramedics are also highly autonomous as they frequently use evidence based practice as a means of new research and technique. In the pre hospital care environment, ‘rather than making decisions about practice actions based on routine and traditionally taught methods, paramedics use evidence identified from well-constructed studies as a basis for the clinical decisions and behaviours. ’ (Curtis ;amp; Ramsden 2011: 111) Evidence based practice occurs through ‘integrating individual clinical expertise with the best available external clinical evidence from systematic research. (Sackett ;amp; Rosenberg 1996: 1) This can only occur when an individual is given autonomy within their field of work. In conclusion, as paramedics have the freedom to make decisions within their scope of practice and can utilise evidence based practice, paramedics are autonomous within a state level. Operating independently within The Australian Health Care System Although paramedics work alon g-side the Australian Health Care System, paramedics are independent of this system. The Houghton Mifflin Company 2011 defines independent as being ‘not governed by a foreign power; self-governing. Paramedics are governed by their own state based organisations and are separate and independent of the hospitals and the Australian Health Care System. When dealing with any misconduct or inquiries, unlike nurses and doctors whose governing power is the Australian Health Care System, paramedics approach their own state based organisation. In conclusion, even though the paramedics work in conjunction with other health care providers both in and out of the hospital setting, paramedics governance is independent of other health care services and the Australian Health Care System. Willis, McCarthy, Lazarsfeld-Jensen and O’Meara 2009) Conclusion: In conclusion paramedics are autonomous and independent health care providers who work along-side the Australian Health Care system. Alth ough paramedics work alongside other emergency services and health care providers in both the in and out of hospital care environment, they are not classified as health care professionals. But with the implementation of nationwide curricula and ethical standards, paramedics can move from a semi profession to fully recognised profession. Paramedics have the freedom to make decisions within their scope of practice and can utilise evidence based practice, making paramedics autonomous within a state level. Through the broadening of paramedics’ scope of practice in certain environment such as rural areas and through the use of evidence based practice we see efforts to increase positive patient outcomes. Finally, paramedics are independent from the Australian Health Care System as they are self-governed by their own state based organisations.

The freedom of cyberspace

The freedom of cyberspace Discuss how the Internet, in its guise as ‘cyberspace’, has allowed its users to operate in a world that is seen by some people as being a new world of freedom and creative opportunities while others see it as a dumping ground for businesses and smut. IntroductionIn this essay I shall discuss how the Internet, in its guise as ‘cyberspace’, has allowed its users to operate in a world that is seen by some people as being a new world of freedom and creative opportunities while others see it as a dumping ground for businesses and smut. I shall introduce what cyberspace is and how it came to be, examine the main arguments for it being labelled as a creative tool that introduces freedom to the world, investigate the criticisms of those who champion cyberspace and analyse how both sets of arguments relate to ideas about technology, society and culture.   In my conclusion I hope to be able to offer an insight into whether cyberspace has developed into a powerful tool for creative freedom, or into a weapon in the arsenal of big business. CyberspaceThe term ‘cyberspace’ was first used by science-fiction writer William Gibson in his 1984 novel Neuromancer.   He described it is a futuristic computer network that people use by plugging their minds into it.   This term now refers to the Internet and lends a romantic image to a world where an almost limitless pool of information can be plucked from a network of computers and computer users around the world.   The Internet was originally developed for the US military but was recognised as the perfect system to transfer and share information for academic research.   The World Wide Web was invented by Tim Berners-Lee in 1989, with the first working system deployed in 1990, while he was working at CERN (the European Organization for Nuclear Research).   The introduction of the World Wide Web allowed the public to access huge amounts of data and it has now become an accepted way to receive and send information.   The World Wide Web is just one service that the Internet provides; a layman’s analogy is of the Internet being the transportation of the World Wide Web’s content.   With cyberspace being made up of more than 100 million computers in more than 100 countries it is almost impossible to fathom how much information there is available to the user.   New Frontier   Cyberspace has been able to offer its users and its contributors a vast arena to ‘play’ with.   The rules and regulations of structured information providers such as the press do not apply to most of the content available online.   This affords the Internet a creative freedom that has never before been seen.   In an article in 2000, journalist Mary Flanagan stated that: â€Å"Technology allows us an alternate space within which we can invent unique methods of telling stories, forming identities, and remembering.†   This alternate space that Flanagan refers to is typifies the romantic view of cyberspace; it is a world in which a person can break free from the shackles of the everyday world and become someone different where they are able to enjoy the freedom of creating a new identity, a new work of art or even a conspiracy theory that they would not have imagined constructing in the ‘real world’.   Sherry Turkle describes th is as â€Å"People who live parallel lives on the screen are nevertheless bound by the desires, pain and mortality of their physical selves.   Virtual communities offer a dramatic new context in which to think about human identity in the age of the Internet†Ã‚   In her introduction to the reader author Rosanne Alluquere Stone reveals that â€Å"†¦engaging in social intercourse by means of communication technologies has given me increasing opportunities to watch others try on their own alternative personae†¦ there are some out at the margins who have always lived comfortably with the idea of floating identities, and inward from the margins there are a few who are beginning, just a bit, to question.†Ã‚   This questioning hints at the notion that under a veil of secrecy the truth can be surfaced without retribution.   Perhaps the most famous advocate of this was Oscar Wilde when he wrote: â€Å"Man is least himself when he talks in his own person. Give him a mask, and he will tell you the truth.† In this new frontier the Internet user can find information on any subject they wish to.   This information is not static like the printed words of a book found in a library, but it is â€Å"organic, open, ubiquitous and creative.†Ã‚   In the words of social commentator Annie Turner: â€Å"†¦it has turned into the eighth wonder of the world because it has not been regulated, because anyone can put up a website, because it can be all things to all people, because it has changed the way we work, are educated and play.†   The fact that content is not regulated attracts more people to it on a daily basis.   These new users can then become contributors by simple interaction; be it an acknowledgment of what they have read in a user forum (a dedicated area on the Internet where people can discuss any subject matter, originally called Bulletin Board Systems) to creating a brand new website dealing with the subject matter.   This process demonstrates the organic str ucture of the Internet and how it has become such an important source of information across the globe. The Internet allows freedom to share information and ideas.   The vast abyss that is cyberspace can be explored by almost anyone who has access to a modem and a computer (and more recently this can also include mobile phones, televisions and even refrigerators!)   People can add their thoughts and ideas to the Internet and these can then be shared amongst a mass audience.   This process of sharing ideas is the backbone of the Internet.   One of the contributing reasons for the popularity of cyberspace is the freedom to share knowledge with others.   This ideal has been argued against by groups that feel that the Internet should be regulated but a case for its defence can be traced back to the third US president Thomas Jefferson who wrote: â€Å"That ideas should be freely spread from one to another over the globe, for the moral and mutual instruction of man and improvement of his condition seems to have been peculiarly and benevolently designed by nature when she made them like fire, expansible over all space without lessening their density at any point, and, like the air, incapable of confinement or exclusive appropriation. Inventions, then, cannot in nature be a subject of property.†Ã‚   This was written almost 200 years ago and is still poignant today.   This freedom of information is the backbone of democracy (although it can be argued that this no longer exists in its truest from) and relates to the fluidity of the Internet. Another way in which cyberspace can be seen as a platform for creative expression is when it is used as a device to disclose information that would normally be guarded by political parties.   This ability to release information may be taken for granted in the West where tabloid headlines can seemingly uncover storylines that would be more suited in pulp fiction novels, but in suppressed countries such as Burma and China this medium has proved to be a tool to spread news that would never allowed to be broadcast by its governments.   It has been reported that China is the biggest abuser of Internet freedom.   The government has censored several hundred thousand websites and, according to Amnesty International, has jailed 61 people accused of using the Internet to spread anti-Communist propaganda.   An interesting fact is that Yahoo! (an American-based Internet company) has adapted its search engine to filter out content unpalatable to the Chinese government; subjects as inflamm atory as Taiwan independence and democracy will not be found on a network supplied in China.   In addition to this, Amnesty International has accused Microsoft, Sun Microsystems, Cisco, Nortel and Websense of helping authorities track down people posting pro-democracy and other similarly subversive material online.   CriticismsThe main criticisms of those who champion cyberspace are based on the content of what can be found online.   Some argue that there are subjects that should not be disclosed to the population whilst others complain that the facts are diluted at best, and completely missing in some cases. In an article in the New Statesman, Andrew Brown reported that: â€Å"There are two general truths about attitudes to censoring the Internet. The first is that hardly anyone admits to favouring it in principle. The second is that whoever you are, and however libertarian, it should never take more than five minutes at the keyboard to find something you believe should be removed from the net, and its perpetrators locked up in a criminal lunatic asylum.†Ã‚   This view is hard to ignore as any Internet user can find themselves in a harem of unsuitable websites.   These sites could include pornography, neo-Nazism, torture, etc.   However, the freedom of cyberspace protects these sites just as it protects the rights of suppressed citizens to air their comments.   The content of a website should be approached in a subjective manner and a liberal pinch of salt should be taken with each sentence.   The most substantial argument against the freedom of cyberspace has always been about pornography.   Pornography is the biggest generator of traffic on the Internet and the latest trend of providing pornography direct to a mobile phone has witnessed commercial breaks on some mainstream digital television channels flooded with semi-naked women selling images directly to the customer.   This saturation has thrown up the argument that â€Å"†¦the freedom the internet potentially brings is more under threat from some grasping commercial companies who provide access to it than governments who seek to control that access.† This threat from big business shows a shift in power over how business and the Internet work in conjunction with each other.   It was suggested by Manuel Castells only three years ago that: â€Å"It would not be fanciful to say that the Internet transformed business as much, if not more, than business transformed the Internet.† It is not all about the simple exploitation of bodies that has brought objections to the way that the Internet works.   Because there are no real rules or regulations to conform to there will always be content that is considered to be so inaccurate that if it was released in the national press there would be an immediate libel case.   This lack of quality control can hinder the savviest Internet user when a trusted source has included information that may have been gathered from a secondary, unreliable source.   Such an inclusion will therefore render that piece as being factually incorrect.   This modern take of ‘Chinese Whispers’ has infected a large percentage of information to be found in cyberspace and as such its opponents’ views of it being an inappropriate use of knowledge can be appreciated, and their calls to regulate its content empathised with. Technology, Society CultureThe technology that is now available to the public has grown in a remarkable way since the early 1990’s and this has allowed access to the Internet for the masses (but it has still to reach the Third World nations).   Ã‚  Castells realised the link between technological breakthroughs and the Internet when he wrote that â€Å"The culture of the Internet is a culture made up of technocratic belief in the progress of humans through technology†¦Ã¢â‚¬    A growing concern, and one that has developed over the last twenty years, is that it is the younger generation that have accepted this technology and it is they who can fully appreciate the choice on offer.   The ‘establishment’, such as governments, are mainly run by people over the age of fifty.   Their grasp of new technology is repeatedly outdated and the fear of ‘losing touch’ with the youth is highlighted by the need to own a website in an attempt to speak t he same language.   However, this language is updated on a daily basis and miscommunication can lead to a lack of understanding on both sides.   In an attempt to stop this from happening it is not impossible to see governments, or leading businesses, curbing the development of technology to have more control over its destination. Society therefore drives the world of cyberspace.   It appears in its current state because that is how it has been formed by its users.   The information that is available has been posted into the realms of the Internet by people like us, for people like us.   Castells writes that: â€Å"Technological systems are socially produced.   Social production is culturally informed.   The Internet is no exception.   The culture of the producers of the Internet shaped the medium.†   This cultural development affords the Internet to continue growing with any facet available to those who want it.   It has allowed for an intellectual, utopian culture where it is up to the individual to determine what they want to see and what they choose to ignore.   This is a culture in society which can grow intellectually, but only if it recognises that not all they read is true.   It therefore begs the question whether or not a society can blossom if a main source of information i s not monitored to be accurate.   Donna Haraway writes about the ‘Network Theory’,a theory proposed in the 1970s by the Nobel Prize-winning immunologist Niels Jerne.   He hypothesised an immune system that was self-regulated.   Edward Golub explains that the network theory â€Å"Differs from other immunological thinking because it endows the immune system with the ability to regulate itself using only itself.† This theory can be viewed within the structure of the Internet where the organic nature of cyberspace is continuously updated and added to by its own infrastructure; its users and contributors. Conclusion  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   The Internet is a vast and powerful tool and as such it is there to be used or abused by anyone with access.   The arguments that the Internet should be regulated are important and should not be completely ignored.   The power that some governments and big business corporations have over the flow of information is very real and this is something that should be examined closely.   However, picking out certain aspects from cyberspace to be scrutinised will open a precedent for all content to be regulated.   This could then lead to a misuse of power and the freedom of creative input could draw to a halt.   Haraway expressed her concerns about this exploitation and the ways in which new technology can be hijacked for anti-social use: â€Å"The new communications technologies are fundamental to the eradication of ‘public life’ for everyone.   This facilitates the mushrooming of a permanent high-tech military establishment at the cul tural and economic expense of most people†¦Ã¢â‚¬  It is my belief that the ability to take on board information and decide whether to accept it on your own terms is far more important to personal and social development than being told what you can or cannot digest.   As such I believe that the World Wide Web, the Internet, cyberspace, or whatever moniker it falls under does constitute a new world of freedom and creative opportunities and the fact that it is not regulated by self-appointed censors should be applauded and defended.   In the words of Rosanna Stone: â€Å"In the space between [immense threat and immense promise] lies the path to our adventure at the dawn of the virtual age, the adventure which belongs to our time and which is ours alone.† Bibliography Brown, Andrew (1999) The Limits of Freedom – Censoring the Internet and Offensive Internet Sites New Statesman (12 February 1999 Issue)Burton, Graeme (2002) More than Meets the Eye (Third Edition) Arnold PublishingCastells, Manuel (2002) The Internet Galaxy: Reflections on the Internet, Business and Society Oxford University Press Clark, Robert (2005) Time to Curb Net Censorship Support Telecom Asia (January 2005 Issue)Curran, James (2000) Mass Media and Society Arnold Publishing Danson, Lawrence (1998) Wilde’s Intentions: The Artist in His Criticism Clarendon Press Flanagan, Mary (2000) Navigating the Narrative in Space: Gender and Spatiality in Virtual Worlds Art Journal (Fall Issue 2000)Golub, Edward S. (1987) Immunology: A Synthesis Sunderland Haraway, Donna J. (1991) Simians, Cyborgs and Women: The Reinvention of Nature Free Association Books McCullagh, Ciaran (2002) Media Power PalgraveStone, Rosanne Alluquere (1996) The War of Desire and Technology at the Close o f the Mechanical Age Cambridge MIT Turkle, Sherry (1996) Life on the Screen; Identity in the Age of the Internet Weidenfeld Nicolson Turner, Annie (2002) Censorship and the Internet: Just Where is the Real Threat to Internet Freedom Coming From? Communicate Magazine (June 2002 Issue)Letter addressed to Isaac McPherson written on 13 August 1813 from Thomas Jefferson

Broken Hearts :: Medicine College Admissions Essays

Broken Hearts    My home has been a place of healing for many broken hearts, both literally and figuratively. My younger sister had two open heart operations before the age of two. I was three years old, and I tried to be the best big sister in the world. I thought that if I loved her enough, her heart would heal itself. My brother was three and thirteen when he had his heart surgeries. This time, I was older and much more fearful, but my brother is the proud new owner of Vinny the Pulmonary Valve. Thus, two hearts have healed quite literally in my home.    The figurative healing in my home sets it apart from many others. I have learned the importance of love and support in the face of trouble by watching my mother, the backbone of a local parent support group. Families need to know they are not alone, that I, too, was scared to see my brother gasp for breath after running up a flight of stairs.    I have seen more aspects of the personal side of medicine than many people my age. I understand first hand the comforting effect a friendly smile and reassuring confidence from a doctor has on both patients and families. My family history is what sparked my interest in medicine, but my own experience has held my attention in recent years.    Eager to gain hands on experience after high school, I volunteered at Strong Memorial Hospital conducting a clinical study of patient referral patterns and shadowing a pediatric cardiologist. I watched a child's fearful face turn to an expression of amazement as he listened to the sound of his own heart. The little boy was so fascinated that he hardly noticed as Dr. Harris completed the check-up, expertly assessing reflexes, color, peripheral pulses, and responsiveness in the moments before the novelty of the sound wore off. Stethoscope in hand, I searched gingerly for the sound of the boy's leaking valve but was not in time. The smile faded, and I lost my chance. I felt an immediate sense of awe at Dr. Harris's swiftness, skill, and compassion toward the fearful little boy.    The following summer I was a University of Rochester Summer Research Program scholar, doing my first laboratory research. I studied surface deformations of the chick embryo myocardium during normal and experimentally altered ventricular growth, learning the frustration of research obstacles and working to overcome them.

The Life of Jesus Christ Essay -- Biography, world history, christiani

Jesus’ life was told through the writings and tales of his apostles which are found in the New Testament in the Bible. His ideas were unconventional during the Jewish religious establishment. There is little knowledge of Jesus’ life from infancy until the age of thirty and the mystery in the years before Jesus taught, between the ages of twelve and thirty years old. Jesus publicly ministered for approximately three years before he was killed by his own people (the priests) mainly because he was ruining their business. Everything was written from other observations of many people after his death, all saying they saw Jesus. Jesus’ ideas were spread by his apostles and disciples in the Mediterranean and Europe and centuries after his death, Jesus’ teachings have developed throughout the world today. Jesus was taken to Jerusalem after every custom feast and once he reached the age of twelve he was left in Jerusalem (Charles Caldwell Ryrie, 1976). The roots of the worship of Jesus Christ (‘Jesus the Messiah’) as the ‘Son of God’ were preached by these disciples. (Eermans, 1982). During the first few decades of Christianity, it was a sect within Judaism which was considered the "independent religion". Two elements of Christianity’s doctrine essential to the Jewish people, Jesus is the messiah, or anointed king, who is spoken of in Jewish prophetic writings. Second, the message of Jesus is the kingdom of God. Keeping with Jewish apocalyptic notions of the messiah, early Christians expected that the kingdom would be established by cataclysmic events (Charles Caldwell Ryrie, 1976). Jesus and his twelve apostles traveled from place to place teaching and healing. When the Sanhedrin heard of the teachings of Jesus being ... ...ss citizens in the city of Jerusalem. His main theme, the coming of the kingdom of God, obviously carried a destructive tone. The message of the coming kingdom of God opposed the way business was carried out by Roman colonists and aristocracies in Jerusalem. Many scholars propose that the Romans’ Pilate involved himself in the execution of Jesus because Romans were misled by Jews to see Jesus as a bad person. However, one can see that it was what Jesus stood for that got him crucified. The business in Jerusalem was for the Romans, and Jesus was not pleased with it, so there is no doubt that Romans did not like Jesus. And if one takes this fragment to be true that â€Å"It is better to have one man die for the people than to have the whole nation destroyed," (John 11:50) one can believe that Jews handed Jesus over to Romans so that they might be spared from destruction.

Plato and Confucius Essay -- Philosophers

Plato and Confucius There are thousands of credible philosophers for people to study today, therefore the choice of who to study becomes a burdening task. Each single one has amazing knowledge and insight that we could all learn something from. There are people who don’t call themselves philosophers but bring philosophical thought to us, and then there are those who dedicate their lives to the love of wisdom. Philosophers have existed for thousands of years, and as long as the sun comes up, there will be philosophers in the future. The human mind is made for philosophizing. So as we young, blossoming philosophers try and make sense of the world in general and the philosophical world specifically, we must find people to enlighten us and share with us their knowledge and theories. These people can range from ancient Chinese philosophers such as Confucius, to early Greek philosophers such as Plato, to more modern philosophers such as Descartes or Locke. Each philosopher brings a different aspect to our learning in their differences in time, culture, knowledge and personality. Many philosophers have a great and withstanding reputation attached to their name, therefore gaining worldwide respect and inquiry. Two of those philosophers are Plato and Confucius. They are perhaps two of the most recognized names in philosophy, and rightly so because of their contributions to the world. All the knowledge that is spoon-fed to us today was not available to these early philosophers, so it makes their ideas even more commendable. Both of these men dedicated their lives to philosophy, and because of that, they have everlasting places in the philosophical world. They are widely followed even today because of their breakthrough theories. Plato an... ...ey are; it is more about how rich and famous you become. I believe that either of these philosophers would be a valuable one to follow. There is no reason why you can’t take lessons from both in an effort to improve your life. They both incorporate fundamental human values like justice, truth, wisdom, goodness, and righteousness in their efforts to improve the human condition, both individually and in society as a whole. Confucius’ ideas may be a little easier to follow since it doesn’t require you to throw your current way of life out the window. His emphasis on simplicity, respect, and understanding could drastically improve the lives of anyone who studies him. However, Plato’s focus on reason is something that could lead you to want to change in an effort to live better. It is obvious that both men have a love of wisdom, and are therefore true philosophers.

International Development and Development Projects

Since Pakistan's commencement in 1947, the legislature has attempted nonstop endeavors to give free, all inclusive, essential training to its residents. This is prove by instructive plans, strategies, and five-year training segment changes, incorporating organizations with global offices and created nations. Be that as it may, these endeavors have not yielded any additions for the natives. Pakistan has a proficiency rate of 49.9 percent, one of the most reduced in South Asia and whatever is left of the world. Pakistan's male and female education rates are 61.7 percent and 35.2 percent. The female education rate drops to 25 percent in rustic regions, and young ladies' school enlistment of fifty-five percent drops to 20% from Grade 1 to 6. For the reasons for these measurements, a proficient individual is characterized by Pakistan's Ministry of Education as one who can read a daily paper and compose a straightforward letter in any dialect. Pakistan's populace of 167 million is sixty-five percent country and thirty-five percent urban, with residents confronting different interlinked issues influencing their personal satisfaction, for example, absence of education, neediness, and the absence of essential necessities (protect, gas, water, and power). Likewise, a culture of feudalism and man controlled society makes structures of energy and control that deny nationals of their rights, including that of training. Studies have been directed on training in Pakistan, 1. Investigations of ladies' character, sexual orientation, and training have been directed by United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), United Nations Children's Funds (UNICEF), and the Aga Khan University-Institute of Educational Development (AKU-IED) Institute in Pakistan. View all notes, be that as it may, they have been constrained in scope as far as young ladies' training. This article tends to the hole in female proficiency grant. Its motivation is to fundamentally examine the condition of young ladies' instruction in Pakistan regarding three factors: the purposes behind low proficiency and school enlistment rates, sexual orientation inclinations in educational programs and reading material, and social standards. In view of this investigation, the article finishes up with measures to build school enlistment and proficiency rates for young ladies and ladies.Paper ref:A Critical Analysis of School Enrollment and Literacy Rates of Girls and Women in PakistanAmna LatifJournalEducational Studies  A Journal of the American Educational Studies Association  Volume 45, 2009 –  Issue 5: WOMEN AND EDUCATION ReferencesAzam, Z (1993). Towards the 21st Century Pakistan: Women, education and Social Change. National Book foundation, Islamabad: Pakistan, p.53. Federal Bureaue of Statistics, Islamabad (2008-09).Khalid Tanveer, (1998) An Introduction to Educational Philosophy and History, 9th Edition, S.M. Printers, Karachi, Pakistan, p. 3.Khalid, H.S. (1996), â€Å"Female Teachers' and Girls' Access to Primary Schools in rural Pakistan: A Case Study†, pp.34-55. Latif, A. (2007).Alarming Situation of Education in Pakistan. World Education Forum, News and Views, Grassroots Stories Pakistan. Saeed, Amera, (1990), Structural Issues in Women Development in Pakistan, UNICIEF; 12 D East SNC Center, Blue Area, Islamabad,1990, pp.27-35.Vidyu Lata, (1990).Developing Rural Women, New Delhi, Discovery Publishers, p.1. Leach Fiona E., Angela Little (1999) Education, cultures, and economics: dilemmas for development, 1st Edition, Routledge Publishers, Newyark, pp. 351-375.

“Little Buddha” †A Summary and Review Essay

Little Buddha starts with a Buddhist monk, Lama Norbu, going to Seattle in search of Jesse Conrad, a boy who Lama Norbu believes may be the reincarnation of Lama Norbus old teacher, Lama Dorje. Lama Norbu and his fellow monks find Jesse and his family, and after an awkward first meeting gives Jesse a book called Little Buddha, which is read to him over the course of the movie to teach him the history and basic points of Buddhism. We get to watch what is being read to Jesse, so there is a movie of Buddha inside a movie of Buddhism. Jesse starts making trips to the Monastery to learn more about the monks and their practice. During his time in the monastery, Lama Norbu reads parts of the book to Jesse. We learn about the birth of Siddhartha Gautama as a prince who was destined by the stars to be great. We learn how his father sheltered him from everything that had the potential to disturb him, and how he finally, when he was a teenager, discovered suffering, poverty, old age, and death. We learn about how he left the palace with a goal to end suffering, and how he became an ascetic. Finally, after hearing a man telling his music pupil about how the string of an instrument has to be in the middle ground between being to tight and snapping and being too loose to play, Siddhartha realizes that the path to enlightenment lies in the Middle Way, or whatever the middle ground is between any two extremes. Jesse is very interested in Buddhism, and Lama Norbu convinces Jesses dad, Dean Conrad, to let Jesse make a trip to meet the other candidates for being the reincarnation of Lama Dorje, and then go to Bhutan for the decision of who it actually is. Jesses mother objects, but gives in after a very emotional scene and Dean, Jesse and Lama Norbu all fly together to Katmandu, where Jesse finds Raju, an awesome little guy who happens to be the second candidate for being the reincarnation of Lama Dorje. Raju asks to play Jesses gameboy, and after Rajus brother steals the gameboy and Raju gets it back, he and Jesse get along very well. The monks think that it is remarkable that the two candidates somehow managed to find each other without knowing who the other one was. After this they fly to India to meet Gita, an upper-class Indian girl. The third candidate comes off a bit conceited and boastful and the beginning, but they all seem to get along afterwards. It is at Gitas place where they find a tree much like the one Siddhartha Gautama meditated under to reach his enlightenment. Here Lama Norbu tells them the story of Siddharthas meditation, and how Mara, an evil  being of temptation and malice (much like Satan) tried to stop Siddhartha from reaching enlightenment. This is where all the good special effects come in. After all of his distractions fail, Siddhartha Gautama reaches enlightenment and becomes The Buddha. After this scene, we emerge from the Buddha tale and Lama Norbu and the rest fly to Bhutan, where Lama Norbu informs them that they are all partly the reincarnation of Lama Dorje. Lama Norbu, finally having completed his task, reveals that he is unhealthy, and he soon, after meditating for a very long time, passes away. Analysis:Little Buddha begins with Lama Norbu telling the apprentice monks at the monastery a story. The story teaches of the cycle of reincarnation, and the ultimate goal of being relieved from this cycle. The story also states that No human being needs ever to sacrifice another animal. This exhibits one of the main principles of Buddhism. Buddhists are generally vegetarian, and dont believe in killing other animals. The movie also teaches of the practice of meditation. Lama Norbu describes it to Jesse on the plane to Katmandu: It is being totally quiet and relaxed, separating yourself from everything around you, setting your mind free like a bird, and you can then see your thoughts as if they were passing clouds. Buddhists are also supposed to detach themselves from worldly connections, which is why they destroy the intricate sand murals that they create as soon as they are completed. Lama Norbu also tells Jesses father at the end that he is not a good example of Buddhist detachment because of his dedicated search for the reincarnation(s) of his teacher (obviously because of his love for Lama Dorje). The primary character who most exemplifies Buddhist philosophies is, despite the fact that he is not good at detachment, Lama Norbu. He is the old, wise one in the movie, and, not having any background on any of the young monks depicted in the movie, the obvious choice for best Buddhist. Lama Norbu is exceptionally good at meditating, too. When he was dying, he meditated for many days on end. I would definitely recommend Little Buddha to anyone interested in learning more about religion, or Buddhism in particular. Although the movie covers  most of Buddhas life and most of the main characteristic of Buddhism, is manages to avoid seeming educational. I would not recommend Little Buddha to anyone addicted to constant action, suspense, or romance, because this movie contains very little of any of them. This movie is all about the emotion the interactions, the learning, and the maturing of every character. Every one in the story gets introduced to a culture not familiar to them during the course of the film, and some characters, like Jesse, get absorbed into entirely new lifestyles. The movie is artwork at a very fine level much attention to detail is present, and the entertainment is all in the details. Little Buddha is the perfect nightmare movie for all people too shallow to comprehend it, all people so shallow as to think it slow, and all people too imperceptive or unfo cused to catch the subtle nuances of its characters interactions. I was very interested in the very prominent cinematic techniques used in Little Buddha. Usually, when one is watching a movie, one can forget that it is a movie because the cinematic techniques are planned to be subtle, as to not be noticed. Only film making aficionados usually pay special attention to cinematics. I could not help but notice though, that all of the sad scenes of the movie were displayed with a very blue tint, and the scene in the hot, eastern desert was displayed with a red tint. The directors of this movie were obviously not trying to make your average, run of the mill movie. They were trying to create a cinematic masterpiece. By using these prominent cinematic techniques, they were daring to make a controversial film. Every time an artist steps out of the lines, it is considered controversial. Controversial pieces of art always seem to follow one of four paths: 1: They are argued about, then forgotten; 2: They are argued about, then rejected; 3: They are argued about forever; and 4: They are argued about, and then become famous masterpieces. If you want to create a famous work of art, you have to step outside of the lines, you have to be creative, you have to dare to be controversial, and then you have to hope that people will appreciate what youve done. That is what I believe the makers of Little Buddha were trying to do. Little Buddha was an educational film that displayed thought and emotion  throughout, and gave the viewer a look at the inside of Buddhism. It was displayed in a way that taught more than a textbook paragraph ever could, with likeable characters, (for the most part) realistic character interaction, and the intention of spreading knowledge of Buddhism and possible Buddhism itself to anyone who is willing to spend two hours of their time on something well worth their while. Bibliography: Little Buddha, (Directed by Bernardo Bertolucci) 2004

Chapter Columbia

Columbia Company, which manufactures machine tools, had the following transactions related to plant assets in 2014. Asset A: On June 2, 2014, Columbia purchased a stamping machine at a retail price of $12,000. Columbia paid 6% sales tax on this purchase. Columbia paid a contractor $2,800 for a specially wired platform for the machine, to ensure noninterrupted power to the machine. Columbia estimates the machine will have a 4-year useful life, with a salvage value of $2,000 at the end of 4 years. The machine was put into use on July 1, 2014.Asset B: On January 1, 2014, Columbia, Inc. igned a fixed-price contract for construction of a warehouse facility at a cost of $1,000,000. It was estimated that the project will be completed by December 31, 2014. On March 1, 2014, to finance the construction cost, Columbia borrowed $1,000,000 payable April 1, 2015, plus interest at the rate of 10%. During 2014, Columbia made deposit and progress payments totaling $750,000 under the contract; the we ighted-average amount of accumulated expenditures was $400,000 for the year.The excess-borrowed funds were invested in short-term securities, from which Columbia realized investment revenue of $13,000. The warehouse was ompleted on December 1, 2014, at which time Columbia made the final payment to the contractor. Columbia estimates the warehouse will have a 25-year useful life, with a salvage value of $20,000. Columbia uses straight-line depreciation and employs the â€Å"half-year† convention in accounting for partial-year depreciation. Columbia's fiscal year ends on December 31 . Instructions (a) At what amount should Columbia record the acquisition cost of the machine? b) What amount of capitalized interest should Columbia include in the cost of the warehouse? (c) On July 1, 2016, Columbia decides to outsource its stamping operation to Medek, Inc. As part of this plan, Columbia sells the machine (and the platform) to Medek, Inc. for $7,000. What is the impact of this dispo sal on Columbia's 2016 income before taxes? Solution (a) Historical cost is measured by the cash or cash equivalent price of obtaining the asset and bringing it to the location and condition for its intended use.For Columbia, this is: Price $12,000 Tax 720 Platform 2,800 Total $15,520 Since Columbia has outstanding debt incurred specifically for the construction project, in an amount greater than the weighted-average accumulated expenditures of $400,000, the interest rate of 10% is used for capitalization purposes. Capitalization stops upon completion of the project at December 31, 2014. Therefore, the avoidable interest is $40,000, which is less than the actual interest.The investment revenue ot is irrelevant to the question addressed in this problem because such interest earned on the unexpended portion of the loan is not to be offset against the amount eligible for capitalization. (c) The income effect is a gain or loss, determined by comparing the book value of the asset to the disposal value: Cost $1 5,520 Less: Accumulated depreciation 6,760* Book value of machine and platform 8,760 Less: Cash received for machine and platform 7,000 Loss before income taxes $ 1,760 hyear $1,690 2014. full year 3,380 2015. 2016. ? h year 1,690

The Turn of the Screw by Henry James

Henry James is well-known for crafting fine literature. One special short piece, The Turn of the Screw, taps into a topic that received great acclaim in the era it was published: ghosts. It was initially released at the tail-end of the 19th century, and followed up with 20th century critical essays regarding this saga. Turn of the Screw was first released when actual ghost-sighting incidents were so common that they became coffee-table discussion. My focus is, in fact, on the subject of ghosts. After reading James’s work, I believe that the governess and her ghost incidents were actually a figment of her imagination, based largely on her unstable mental health. I will offer my reflections as to why our governess was tripped-up and tricked into believing she saw phantoms. The main thrust of her disillusionment came from her mental illness. The history behind The Turn of the Screw is woven to the argument between the apparition-believers and the non-apparition traditionalists. The phenomenological spirit-hunter controversy has been wide spread, even in this day and age of the 21st century. In order to stay true to Henry James, it is important to define what I mean by apparition and non-apparition. According to James’s time period—which I will be true to in my assessment—I will clarify that an apparition refers to explanations in which ghosts are seen to be very real figures or a manifestation of paranormal activity existing in a person’s field of vision. Non-apparition, instead, infers that the explanations in which ghosts are viewed are actually hallucinations of the mind. This is the standard terminology used in The Turn of the Screw. From the beginning, although James has a captive means of expressing himself through story-telling, one major criticism is that the stories he creates are too far-fetched. He misses out on incorporating the essence of reality into his story, which immediately sends reads on a downward spiral away from realism. The story does not tell about life and the journals of the governess. Instead the governess and the supporting characters (which includes ghost figments) are not people we’d easily associate with in life. James has a focus in his novella, but the thematic structure is too narrow in the sense that he ignores incorporating daily-life experience and background structure—both in characterization and scenery. Readers cannot truly take his account as a subject of realism. When we look at his characters and plot-structure, it becomes clear that James excluded huge segments of society. He was not concerned with low-class families or even the middle class. He wrote of nothing in regards to the common man. Instead, his interest lie solely in envisioning a class of people devoted to the luxuries of high class status. So, in order to follow along with Henry James, we must pay a ticket, so-to-speak, to enter his special world of an elite cast from another planet of thinking. First, we must agree to the boundaries of his world. Then, and only then, can we consider him to be a realist. However, it’s important to point out that James is true to his characters. He never violates the laws of his reality. His is, in effect, a faithful storyteller and his characters are always understandable. Robert Lee Wolff, for instance, in his published piece, The Genesis of The Turn of the Screw, points out that there were many skeptics who felt that readers who believed in this supernatural tale were, in effect, caught in the trap of Henry James. It was viewed as a â€Å"cold artistic calculation† on the part of its highly entertained author (Wolff p. 125). As we look at the governess in the first few turns of the story, we see how James very deliberately and carefully sets up the machinery where the governess first witnesses the ghosts. The governess believes in these ghost-incidents but refuses to investigate the situation. It’s difficult to believe our governess would not be shaken by curiosity in hopes of validating her visions. It’s also apparent that the governess takes a liking to her employer and she wants him to go on these walks with her, in hopes of them both seeing the ghosts. But she does not. This is very uncharacteristic of a mentally stable person. James leaves room for the reader to decide whether or not it’s her infatuation or psychotic visions that has a hold of her. It seems, to me, that her imagination, along with her mental fragility, are the keys that lead her to imagine the ghosts, instead of actually seeing them. To back up my claim, Francis Roellinger cites the following, If James emphasized the artistic limitations of the â€Å"recorded and arrested† ghosts, it is chiefly to make clear to the reader his reasons for ignoring these limitations in the construction of his own phantoms† (Roellinger 135). With working with children during the day, the governess discovers the magic within the children—and their own individual gravity toward curiosity and uncovering the truth of situations. Yet, her state of mind seems to cloud her vision. This further strengthens my plea that these ghosts were actually figments of her imagination. The governess does spend time discussing these apparition sightings with Mrs. Grose. They learn that the man died after falling on the ice after a drunken evening at a tavern. The history of recent dead individuals includes the previous governess who died last year. Are these dead the ghosts she sees? We then discover that the children know of these ghosts, but are hiding this information from the adults. James has a spine-tingling means of crafting his story, yet the believability fall short with his lack of realism and superficial details. Later, other critics saw his work lacking realistic integrity. Robert Lee Wolff added that Henry James created a governess that certainly suffered from mental illness. Wolff wrote, â€Å"the tortured forms and expressions, are proof positive that he regards the governess, who sees the ghosts and tells the story, as a neurotic, suffering from sex repression (Wolff p. 126). Another critic, in the same published essay by Wolff, was cited as locating several situations that carried Freudian significance, which integrated our governess’s final pedophile passion for the young boy. The governess, in the end, scares him out-of-his-mind, frightening him to death. In reading a story so heavily laced with ghost appearances, how is it that the governess is such a stoic in regards to keeping her fear-factor at bay? This question brings to mind the notion that our governess might have some secret desire for fear or even pain. How else could she perpetuate her relations with the young boy child to the point of utter contempt regarding sexual desire? The situation weighs too heavily in favor of the governess’s mental instability being a driving force that leads her to imagine that she sees these ghosts. As we consider it deeper, her illness can be paralleled to imagining some of the scenes where children—according to her—are chatting with an apparition. On top of this, her solitude and lack of having a lover or partner in her life further distresses her situation. In essence, we can view this entire tale as a battle of good versus evil—not paranormal reality. The governess could also be considered a person who created this ghost scenario upon innocent children, which would be an extremely neurotic tendency on her part. She feels so alone and, when the children are in confidence with the ghosts, she creates a scenario, through her excessive imagination that holds little remorse for the repercussions that might occur to the children or other characters in the story. In conclusion, it’s clear that this is a story of a mentally unstable woman who uses her neuroses to create this universe of ghosts. It’s her means of communicating with others, after her younger years did not lead her to love. She is a deeply unstable individual, flawed with ruin. She is not the type of person who would be able to deal with these spine-tingling events with the conviction she displayed. This character trait in the governess along with other unrealistic situations in the story, offer no other solution than to consider it as a purely fabricated and imaginary chain of events.