Market Structures and Pricing Essay

Market structures and pricing Revenues Consumers * Inverse demand curve gives willingness-to-pay * Benefit consumer(s) derive(s) from additional good; * Area under inverse demand curve measures total willingness-to-pay, total benefit or total surplus. * Maximum price I can charge as producer determined by inverse demand function * Marginal revenues; revenue of next unit I sell Strategies * Profit maximization * Marginal profits equal to 0 (MR=MC) * Classic economic theory; entrepreneurial capitalism * Owner makes strategic decisions * Managerial capitalism; * Ownership changed * Control changed * Potential conflicts between shareholders and management * Firms got bigger: coordinate difficulties * Revenues maximization * Decreasing revenues bad for image * Financial institutions want certainty * Low revenues mean relatively high risk for suppliers * Low revenues may lead to budget cuts, including management * Bonus * MR=0 * Marketing effort * Managerial utility maximization * Managers maximize own satisfaction * Growth maximization * Long term strategy * Behavioral theories * Different groups, satisfy all groups to survive: satisfying * Altruistic objectives: public interest * Welfare maximization * What strategy is relevant? * Autonomy and income advancement * Successful business is most important personal objective * Growth objective * Profit maximization * Model * Economic profit ≠  accounting profit Market structures * Perfect competition * Monopolistic competition * Oligopoly * Monopoly Perfect competition * Many (small) suppliers and buyers: ‘price takes’ * Demand function for individual company * Products are perfect substitutes * Free entry and exit * Information is perfect (available to all no cost) * Free movement of products: supply responsive to market forces * Innovation exogenous: producers reactive rather than proactive. * Benchmark: Welfare is maximized (p=mc) * Efficiency * Productive efficiency: AC cannot be lower * MC curve passes though minimum of AC * Allocative efficiency: resources are distributed and used as preferred by consumers: P=MC * Pareto efficiency: no one can be made better off without making anyone else worse off. Monopoly One seller; can influence price (output) Price > marginal cost: economic inefficiency (although the firm itself may be efficient) * Barriers to entry * Initial costs * Sunk costs * Brand loyalty * Economies of scale * Patents and licenses * Anti-competitive behavior Revenues * Demand: Q * Inverse demand: P=a/b-1/b*Q * Revenues: R = P*Q = Q*a/b-1/b*Qâ‚‚ * Marginal revenue: ∂R/∂Q * Additional revenues from next unit sold * ∂R/∂Q = a/b-2/b*Q * Twice as steep as inverse demand * Positive if ÃŽ µÃ'€ < -1 * Demand is elastic (point-elastic) Natural monopoly * Market can only sustain 1 producer * Competition (P=MC): all competitors make a loss * P>MC: loss when P help to sustain monopoly or oligopoly * Government; policy regulation * Spatial pre-emption; new entrants do not have access to necessary inputs * Cost barriers * Reputation: customer loyalty, safety * Exit barriers: shrinking a firm is expensive (labor, capacity) * Entry-deterring strategies; pricing, spare-capacity, corporate deals (price discrimination) Oligopoly: non-corporate behavior * Competition based on output (quantity) or price. * Two basic oligopoly models: * Cournot (quantity competition) * Bertrand (price competition) * Cournot: firms determine output simultaneously, and the bring this to the market; * Bertrand: firms announce prices. Demand is allocated to low-price firm(s), who then produce(s) demand Cournot competition * Assumes that firms produce identical products * Demand: Q=a-b*P * Inverse demand: P=a/b-1/b*Q * Now we have 2 producers (duopoly): P=a/b-1/b*(Q1+Q2) * Profits maximized when MR=MC (Equivalent to monopolists), taking the competitors action as given. * Inverse demand: P=a/b-1/b*(Q1+Q2) * Revenues firm 1: R1=Q1*[a/b-1/b*(Q1+Q2)] * Marginal revenues: MR1=a/b-1/b*(2*Q1+Q2) * Equilibrium: MR1=MC1 * Expression in Q1 and Q2 * Similar expression for company 2 * MR1: ∂R1/∂Q1 = * P*∂Q1/∂Q1 + Q1*∂P/∂Q1 * P + ∂P/∂Q1*Q1 * 1 + (∂P/∂Q1*Q1/P)*P * (1+1/ÃŽ µp)*P * MR1=MC1: (1+1/ÃŽ µp)*P=MC1 * P=MC1/(1+1/ÃŽ µp) * Cournot oligopolist sets price above MC! * –Same for monopoly Bertrand oligopoly * Price competition (again assume identical goods) * Firms announce prices. Demand is allocated to low-price firm(s), who then produces demand. * If a firm sets above its competitor’s price, clients will prefer the competitors (identical goods). * Bertrand equilibrium is therefore equivalent to competitive equilibrium: price equals marginal cost. Price discrimination * Conditions: * Market power * Different groups of consumers (based on willingness-to-pay, demand elasticity etc.) -> segmentation * Resale is not possible * Cost of discrimination may not exceed additional profits * Market should be transparent. * Charge different (groups of) consumers different prices to maximize profits -> price discrimination * First, second and third degree First degree pricing discrimination * Perfect discrimination: each unit of output sold at different price; * Price determined by inverse demand curve; * What is the optimal output? Second degree price discrimination * Non-linear pricing: price depends on how much you buy; * Fundamentals; * Application; * Consumer decides on how much to buy; * Self selection constraints * 2 consumers each spends Ri to receive Xi * Buy Xi if benefitsi (Xi)-Ri >0 * Benefits 1 (X1)-R1> benefits1 (X2)-r2 * Benefits 2 (X2)-R2> benefits2 (X2)-r1 * Consider an individual demand function (for convenience, marginal costs are 0) * Monopolists want to supply X1 at a total price of A * Consider two individual demand functions * Monopolist would like to supply X1 at A+B+C and X2 at A * But: if consumer 1 also purchase X2 at a price of A, he/she will get surplus B (self selection) * If the monopolists would charge A+C for X1, consumer 1 gets surplus B and the monopolist higher profits. Can the monopolist get higher profits? * Make X2 unattractive for consumer 1` * Offering less of X2 (loss of monopolist) allows for higher profits from X1. Third degree price discrimination * Set prices for different groups of consumers: examples? Summary * Profit maximization * Monopoly, perfect competition: two extremes. * Regulation of monopoly: incentives. * Cournot oligopoly: * decide on production, then price determined in market * Cournot ologipolist has monopoly power (p>mc) * Bertrand: * decide on price, then output determined in market; p = mc * Price discrimination * Higher profits * Market power

Pathophysiology Paper

Running Head: Integrated Pathophysiology Integrated Pathophysiology Paper Confidential RNSG 2463 Instructor Date Integrated Pathophysiology 2 Patient Data Mr. F. is a seventy-three year old Caucasian male who is twice divorced and lives alone in Sweetwater, Texas. He has two children living, and two deceased children. Both of his parents are deceased; his father died at the age of sixty-nine of prostate cancer, his mother at the age of seventy-two of a stroke. He is self-employed, owning a local dirt contracting company for about thirty years now. Mr. F. tands five-foot and nine inches tall and weighs two hundred sixty pounds, exhibiting moderate obesity and has been for the past twenty-five years. He has a longstanding history of hypertension; approximately twenty years as well as a history of diabetes mellitus type two for twelve years, never having been insulin dependant. He has a smoking history of about fifty years smoking two packs per day and has been diagnosed a few years ago with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, making him oxygen-dependant for two years. He claims to only drink alcohol on a social basis.Prior to his current admission, he stated that he has not been compliant with his diabetic diet, that he does not check his blood glucose regularly nor has he been following his medication regimen as he should. His last doctors appointment was two years ago. On July 6, 2008, Emergency Medical Services was called to Mr. F. ’s residence by a friend who found him in bed, conscious, but speaking incoherently. He had a nasal canula in place at three liters per minute. His glucometer done by emergency personnel showed a blood sugar of thirty-six.He was then given a bolus of dextrose fifty percent; he then returned to consciousness, but complained of some right arm and leg weakness. He had 3+ pitting edema bilaterally to lower extremities as well as 1+ presacral edema. He was then transported to Rolling Plains Memorial Hospital emergency room. Upo n arrival to the hospital, his vital signs were as follows; blood pressure- 200/103, heart rate- 80, respirations- 18, and oxygen saturation at 95% on oxygen via nasal canula at 3 liters per minute. His right sided weakness seemed to resolve per patient.He denied headache, vertigo and tinnitus. Diagnostics done at the emergency room showed a white blood cell count of 7. 8, hemoglobin of 12. 4, hematocrit of 37. 2, MCV of 95, and the platelet count along with coagulation studies showed to be normal. His renal function was abnormal at a BUN of 68 and a creatinine of 6. 1. His potassium level was 5. 4 and CO2 was 22. 3. His sodium level was 133, phosphorus levels were elevated at 6. 1, globulins were elevated at 4. 3, troponin level was slightly elevated at 0. 14 and CPK was normal. His BNP NT-Type was extremely elevated at 9674. along with his hemoglobin A1C was at 5. 8. Thyroid studies were Integrated Pathophysiology 3 found to be normal. The total cholesterol was 127, with HDL only at 24, LDL at 79 and triglycerides at 136. A further diagnostic study revealed by way of chest x-ray has shown cardiomegaly with mild venous congestion. The EKG shows poor R wave progression and nonspecific ST wave changes from previous. The echocardiogram showed 2+ mitral valve regurgitation with mild aortic stenosis and also an ejection fraction of over 50%. A renal sonogram shows diffuse cystic changes.A CT scan of his head revealed mild white matter changes but no other abnormalities. The 24 hour urine shows a urinary creatinine of 1449 and a urinary protein of 190. 3. The patient denied problems with urination such as frequency, urgency, dysuria, recurrent urinary tract infections or renal stones. Home medications included; Potassium chloride 10 mEq t. i. d. daily, Metformin 500 mg daily, Nifedipine 90 mg daily, Ramipril 10 mg b. i. d. for a total of 20 mg daily, Albuterol inhaler, Furosemide 80 mg in the am and 40 mg in the pm. Mr. F. was admitted into the intensive care unit from the emergency room.Diseases/Pathophysiology Mr. F. ’s current disease processes are long-standing hypertension, obesity, COPD, Diabetes mellitus, chronic renal failure, and congestive heart failure. Hypertension is defined as a blood pressure greater than 140/90 mm Hg (Ignatavicius & Workman, 2006). It is caused by increases in cardiac output, total peripheral resistance, or both. The cardiac output is the volume of blood that is ejected by the heart each minute. Peripheral resistance is a resistance to the flow of blood out side of the heart. It can be considered either primary or secondary.Primary hypertension has no known causative factors other than relation to genetic predisposition, obesity, stress, increased alcohol intake, diabetes, and or sodium and water retention in which all increase the total workload of the heart and increase fluid volume with in the vascular space (Zerwekh, Claborn & Gaglione, 2006). Secondary hypertension is elevated blood pressure with a n identifiable cause that may include but not limited to; renal stenosis, congenital heart defects, Cushing’s syndrome, pheochromocytoma, untreated sleep apnea, MAOIs, chemical stimulants such as cocaine, methamphetamines etc. or pregnancy induced (Zerwekh, Claborn & Gaglione, 2006). Obesity is a disease within many diseases with many varying causes. According to Ignatavicius and Workman (2006), an obese person weighs at least 20% above the upper limit of the normal range for ideal body weight and refers to an excessive amount of body fat in which can be distributed differently and cause an array of problems according to the distribution, Integrated Pathophysiology 4 especially android obesity with excess fat at the waist and abdomen; this pattern carries the greatest health risk.Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease is a progressive and irreversible condition characterized by diminished inspiratory and expiratory capacity of the lungs (Mosby’s, 2002). Emphysema along with chronic bronchitis is complications that lead to COPD. The etiology is more often than not, a long history of smoking cigarettes or other forms of smoking tobacco. The lungs lose elasticity and tend to cause hyperinflation due to the alveoli in the lung losing its elastin, in which then narrows and produces a surface area that decreases and is no longer functioning properly for adequate gas exchange.The accumulated air that is unable to be absorbed properly becomes trapped and causes the collapse of the smaller airways called bronchioles. With the lungs hyperinflated, this flattens the diaphragm, thus causing the individual to utilize accessory muscles to breath, increasing the respiratory rate to compensate. Patients with COPD have bouts with chronic bronchitis which is an inflammation of the bronchi and bronchioles triggered usually by tobacco smoke.The irritants from the smoke cause inflammation, with vasodilation, mucosal edema, and bronchospasms; the increased inflammation increases the size of the mucosal glands and produce large amounts of thick mucus, causing the bronchial walls to thicken and impair airflow (Ignatavicius & Workman, 2006). Diabetes Mellitus comes in many forms; the main characteristic is elevated blood glucose due to complications in the insulin secretion or action or both (Ignatavicius & Workman, 2006).When diagnosed with diabetes other than type one, the beta cells in the islets of Langerhans that produce insulin and the alpha cells that produce glucagon, which counteract one another, either decrease in production of these hormones or can possibly produce at a normal balance. If there is normal production of these hormones, mainly insulin (the hormone that transports glucose into the cells), it is usually cellular resistance to insulin that is causing the diabetes.When the cells are not receiving the necessary glucose needed for cellular function and metabolism, the body is unable to utilize the glucose, store carbohydrates, fat s and proteins; therefore the unused glucose remains in the blood causing hyperglycemia and regulatory mechanisms in the body tend to cause the release of more glucagon which cause the release of stored glucose in the liver into the bloodstream as well, therefore increasing the blood glucose level even more. Homeostasis is Integrated Pathophysiology 5 nterrupted, systemically causing damage. The etiology of type two diabetes can be a combination of many factors; however the well known contributor is obesity. Chronic renal failure is a progressive, irreversible kidney injury, and kidney function does not recover (Ignatavicius & Workman, 2006). The kidneys are in charge of filtering the metabolic wastes in the bloodstream that comes from cellular metabolism throughout the body as well as reabsorption of necessary electrolytes.When long-term damage is sustained in the cells of the kidneys (nephrons) by factors such as longstanding hypertension, function is progressively altered exhibit ed by the inability to excrete the nitrogenous wastes; therefore they accumulate in the kidneys and blood stream. Altered glomerular filtration rate, abnormal urine production, poor water excretion, electrolyte imbalances, and metabolic abnormalities occur as a result of renal failure. The body’s ability to dilute urine is decreased; therefore urine output decreases causing fluid overload.The failure occurs in stages with the last being end-stage renal disease in which all renal function eventually ceases. Congestive heart failure also known as left-sided heart failure may result from hypertensive coronary artery and valvular diseases arising particularly from the mitral and aortic valves. When CHF occurs from any etiology such as systemic hypertension and structural changes, the ventricles of the heart are unable to contract and or relax properly causing blood to congest around the heart.As a result of this congestion in and around the heart, tissue perfusion diminishes and blood accumulates in the pulmonary vessels. Cardiac output eventually decreases and compensatory mechanisms such as sympathetic nervous system stimulation, the renin-angiotensin system activation in the kidneys (RAS), other neurohumoral responses and myocardial hypertrophy will occur (Ignatavicius & Workman, 2006).The hypoxic state of the tissues stimulate the nervous system which increases the heart rate and blood pressure due to vasoconstriction and this stimulation increases venous blood return to the heart, which in turn stretches the myocardial fibers causing dilation and eventually thickening of the walls of the heart and chambers within it, consequently causing enlargement (cardiomegaly). The heart then tries to contract harder and eventually exhausts and reduces the force of the contractions; therefore decreasing cardiac output.The vasoconstriction of the arteries increases the afterload which is the resistance that the heart must pump. This low output causes a decrease in b lood flow to the kidney’s which results in the activation of the RAS in turn causes sodium and water retention. Cardiac preload and afterload increase causing contractile dysfunction. Integrated Pathophysiology 6 Integration Mr. F. reported that he has been obese for approximately twenty-five years. A few years after the significant weight gain, he was diagnosed with hypertension.At his own admission, his lifestyle of high fat, cholesterol, salt and sugar intake as well as a long history of smoking cigarettes left little to be desired and have contributed significantly to his current condition. Several years after having been diagnosed with hypertension, he was told he had diabetes and COPD. Upon his recent hypoglycemic episode, he was diagnosed then as having chronic renal failure with congestive heart failure. All of these diagnoses tie well in together, starting with obesity. When a person is obese, the excess weight, especially around the waist and abdomen as seen in Mr.F . causes the workload on the heart to increase due to the excess adipose tissue surrounding the visceral organs and weight in general. Being obese puts one at high risk factors for developing hypertension and heart disease as Mr. F. has. Obesity also places one at high risk for developing diabetes type two due to the fact that adipose tissue and cells that accumulate have a high tendency to become insulin resistant as well as the surrounding cells and tissue; therefore the body can not utilize the glucose and hyperglycemia occurs.A prolonged period of insulin resistance eventually leads to the beta cell failure causing decreased insulin production. The same high fat, cholesterol, and sodium diet that contributed to the patient’s obesity in the first place, causing his heart to have to work harder, more than likely caused him to develop hypertension. The fact of his non-compliance with his medication regimen for hypertension and diabetes, 100 pack per year smoking habit as wel l as noncompliance with prescribed diabetic diet, lead to his further complications of renal failure and lastly CHF.With prolonged hypertension and particularly uncontrolled diabetes mellitus, diabetic nephropathy changes the kidneys in a way that reduces kidney function and eventually, renal failure. Chronic high blood glucose levels cause hypertension in kidney blood vessels and excess kidney perfusion (Ignavicius &Workman, 2006). This increase in pressure within the kidneys cause the blood vessels to leak out that allows large particles such as albumins and proteins to form deposits in the kidneys and their blood supply.This narrows the vessels and decreases oxygenation to surrounding kidney tissue; therefore causing hypoxia and eventually irreversible cell death. As this progresses, scarred tissue forms and the ability to filter urine from the blood ceases causing renal failure. Once in renal failure, the patient’s kidneys were not able to regulate the fluid volume by ade quate excretion, therefore the excess fluid was pooled back into the vascular Integrated Pathophysiology 7 space. This fluid volume overload caused an increased cardiac workload which eventually leads to congestive heart failure.Mr. F. ’s smoking history was the primary cause of his COPD; however it is exacerbated by the collection of fluid in his vascular space due to renal failure, the loss of elasticity of vascular system and congestive heart failure. The medication prescribed for Mr. F. ’s diabetes was Metformin 500 mg daily. This medication primary action was to decrease hepatic glucose production. The excess insulin in the blood triggers production of glucagon in which signals the liver to release stored glucose, in turn hyperglycemia results. This medication was changed due to Mr. F. s elevated BUN and creatinine which is where this medication is metabolized and excreted as well as his state of CHF. Continuing this medication could cause toxicity. The new medica tion he was placed on was a low dose of Actos which is metabolized in the liver and does not cause hypoglycemia as Metformin may. To treat his hypertension, Nifedipine was prescribed and it acts to lower blood pressure by inhibiting calcium transport into myocardial cells and smooth muscle cells within the vascular space resulting in vasodilation counteracting the vasoconstriction caused by hypertension.In addition to Nifedipine, the patient is prescribed an ACE inhibitor named Ramipril. This ACE inhibitor works on the renin-angiotensinogen system ultimately causing systemic vasodilation. This medication not only decreases the blood pressure, it decreases cardiac afterload in patients with CHF. Ramipril is metabolized in the liver, therefore indicated for patients at risk or in renal failure. Furosemide is a loop diuretic that is especially helpful in patients with edema due to hypertension, renal disease as well as CHF.Furosemide increases the renal excretion of water as well as so dium and other electrolytes, thus reduces the fluid volume in the vascular space. It also has a vasodilating effects that are beneficial in this patients regimen; however a potassium supplement must be given due to the potassium wasting caused by this loop diuretic. This patient’s dose of Furosemide was significantly increased due to the necessity of ridding his body of the accumulating fluid and stabilizing his blood pressure which in turn will prevent further damage to his kidney’s. Potassium is necessary for proper contractility of the heart.Mr. F. is on Potassium chloride 10 mEq t. i. d. to make up for the loss due to the loop diuretic effects. The Albuterol inhaler is used to dilate the bronchi thus increasing surface area of the air ways to enable oxygen and CO2 exchange. This inhaler can exacerbate hypertension, palpitations and have a negative cardiac effect as well as cause hyperglycemia; therefore must be used cautiously. Integrated Pathophysiology 8 Predicti on of Outcomes Although Mr. F. ’s acute condition was stabilized, his prognosis appears poor at this point due to his history of noncompliance.Even though he has decreased his cigarette habit to one pack per day, his condition will probably deteriorate unless he could totally abstain from smoking. While speaking with the patient, he assures that this has got his attention and he will remain compliant from here on out. The damage at this point is irreversible; therefore maintaining remaining function as it is now becomes a new priority, meaning that compliance is necessary at this point for this patient as continuing to be noncompliant will definitely lead to his demise.Aggressive diabetic counseling as well as reinforcement of adhering to his current medication regimen is crucial for this patient’s survival. Other disciplines that should be involved to ensure a better prognosis for Mr. F. are ones such as a dietician to help with meal and snack planning per diabetic pr otocol, continuing respiratory therapy to aid in oxygenation and supplies, physical therapy to build the patients strength and prevent venous stasis hence blood clots, and maybe even occupational therapy to assist him with maintaining independent activities of daily living.Routine follow up appointments with his physician as well as specialist for cardiac and pulmonary function are essential to his outcome. A diabetic support group would be ideal for this patient as he appears to be a person in need of a support team. Lifestyles are hard to modify, but when one gets backed into a corner, it can be done, even in the most noncompliant patients otherwise death is imminent. Integrated Pathophysiology 9References Deglin, J. H. & Vallerand, A. H. (2007). Davis’s Drug Guide, Tenth Edition. Philadelphia: F. A. Davis Company. Ignatavicius, D. D. & Workman, M. L. (2006). Medical Surgical Nursing, Critical Thinking for Collaborative Care. St. Louis: Elsevier Saunders. Mosby’s Med ical, Nursing, & Allied Health Dictionary (6th ed. ). St. Louis: Mosby, Inc. Zerwekh, J. , Claborn, J. C. & Gaglione, T. (2006). Mosby’s Pathophysiology Memory Notecards, Visual, Mnemonic, and Memory Aids for Nurses. St. Louis: Mosby, Inc.

Attributes that compliment for Professional growth

Attributes that compliment for Professional growth Professionally successful people all share a certain set of attributes. These attributes are what differentiates them from average people and helps them achieve all their goals along with organizational goals. If one wishes to become a successful and attain new heights in their career a certain set of attributes are necessary which can be adopted through self-development and self-assessment. Professional focused people always welcome challenges as they believe that challenges are those experience which help to refine one self and are never afraid about failure. There are lots of qualities that sum up a person, but not everybody can put them together to practice. What one must learn is where strength lies and how he can develop other qualities which will make him a complete and through professional. The qualities that count as good professional attributes can be summed up as follows: 1Must be highly motivated and enthusiastic and have a keen desire to continually update knowledge and skills required for the job. 2Must be a loyal employee who is hard working, dependable and trustworthy because it is a it is a two way relationship between an employee and employer. 3The ability to work individually and as part of the larger organizations team. Should have a strong sense of commitments should able to begin a course of action and work through it until its finished. Should have a very strong drive and motivation to continually develop my professional skills. Should have excellent communication skills, both verbal and written. Should have the ability to relate to all types of other people I work with. Should be flexible and adaptable to meet changing conditions or situations. Should have the ability to learn quickly and my common sense helps me respond to the needs of new situations. Should use common sense and the ability to make decisions based on knowledge and good judgement. Must maintain a balanced attitude towards work and home life, giving appropriate consideration to things that matter at home and at work. Must be able to deal with pressure and organize their well, so that work and job demands get proper attention and justice. Should have a sense of humor and be able to join with others and enjoy funny situations. Having mentioned the above attributes, it is possible every person must be blessed with at least few of them. One of the major goal is to first identify how we relate to them, what we already have and ways to develop which are critical to the current job profile. Every time if it would be good to appear a little more professional, just choose to be a little more professional coz that professional attitude helps to build long term relations. There is one absolute requirement for becoming valuable and successful: Accept total responsibility for your life professionally and personally, No blame, no victim-hood, no excuses. For life to get better, one must get better. Its as simple as that. One cannot become a great leader simply by reading about leadership. Similarly, one cannot refine oneself without practicing. So, dive in learn lessons from failures and develop wisdom and to increase proficiency and always remember the path to mastery is Practice.

A portfolio about Mary Walker Phillips (an artist), and discussing the Essay

A portfolio about Mary Walker Phillips (an artist), and discussing the meaning of the work, it's form, its context, its qualities - Essay Example (Daniels, 1988) The Chinese in that period of time were migrating in search of better living conditions than were prevalent in China at the time, and the major incentive to go to America was the California gold rush which began in the 1850's. The gold rush attracted a huge immigrant population, and led to an economic boom, which created a large demand for labour. The Chinese arrived to fill up this demand: "The pull effect of California is reflected in the Chinese ideogram for California, "Golden Mountain." California, .......was just starting a spectacular economic boom based on the discovery of gold in 1848........... Services were not only high, they were virtually unobtainable........ It was this economic boom that first drew Chinese to California......"(Daniels, 1988) The Chinese were a hardworking people, and soon made a reputation for themselves as a bunch of people who earned their pay through disciplined, long suffering, honest toil. They became a favorite with the employers in America. Not only did they provide labor, some of the Chinese also were entrepreneurs, merchants and small time tradesmen, who were were welcomed into America for their reputation as honest, hardworking people with fair practices: " In actuality, the first Chinese immigrants were well and widely receiv

The Function of Telomeres in Obesity Term Paper

The Function of Telomeres in Obesity - Term Paper Example The investigators carried out a case-control study involving 793 children, obese (above the 97th percentile for weight) and non-overweight (below the 90th percentile for weight). Their peripheral blood samples were taken and leukocyte DNA extracted, from which measurements of telomere lengthening was done using PCR. Statistical analysis showed that mean leukocyte telomere length in the obese group was significantly lower than in the non-overweight group, equating to about a 24% decrease. No statistical differences were found across gender, age, blood pressure or total cholesterol levels, however, telomere length was inversely related to height and weight. The investigators concluded that telomeres of obese children are significantly shorter than those of non-obese children of comparable age, and therefore obese children have a biological age that is significantly higher than their actual chronological age – an alarming conclusion which stresses the importance of reducing obesi ty in order to reduce the risk of future diseases. Buxton et al (2011) cited a number of published articles. More than one of the cited papers demonstrated how obesity in various ways – by a waist-hip ratio in women, for example - was linked to shorter telomere length. Among the references, the paper that was most critical to the study objectives of Buxton et al (2011) was the study by Farzaneh-Far et al (2010). This is because it was the largest, most robust, and most popular study, with the highest standards of research methodology.... Buxton et al (2011) cited a number of published articles. More than one of the cited papers demonstrated how obesity in various ways – by waist-hip ratio in women, for example - was linked to shorter telomere length. Among the references, the paper that was most critical to the study objectives of Buxton et al (2011) was the study by Farzaneh-Far et al (2010). This is because it was the largest, most robust, and most popular study, with the highest standards of research methodology. This was a prospective cohort study, the most reliable study design, involving 608 participants over 5 years. Participants were patients with cardiovascular disease. The investigators found that over 5 years, 45% of these patients developed telomere shortening, 32% maintained the same telomere length, and 23% lengthened telomeres. Independent predictors of telomere shortening in cardiovascular disease patients included older age, male sex, and abdominal obesity (higher waist to hip ratio). Study pa rticipants with the longest telomeres experienced the greatest amount of shortening, while those with shorter telomeres maintained or increased their length. This suggested that there may be negative feedback regulation of leukocyte telomere length in humans. The shortening of telomeres was postulated to be done by the enzyme telomerase. In contrast with prior cross-sectional studies, the authors found no significant associations between telomere trajectory and blood pressure, insulin resistance, smoking, body mass index, or physical activity. It was recognized that many genetic and environmental stressors may have acted as confounders to influence

No topic Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words - 9

No topic - Essay Example It was noticed that people who hold a biblical perspective are radically different in their views on common positions about moral principles. In addition, they choose a lifestyle which is very different from other people`s one. People, who believe in the Creator, do not recognize the scientific and pseudo-scientific theories about the origin of the universe. Moreover, they may believe that they came to Earth with a certain purpose, at least, to lead a virtuous life, and then - as the highest award – their souls would reunite with God. They believe that God directs them, and he also sends the tests to them - in some ways it is similar to the ideas of fatalism. In addition, it is difficult to convince the followers of monotheism that other point of view have a right to exist too. The Word of the Creator - as the highest incomprehensible creature, who causes trembling – lead to no distinguish between "religious" and "secular" life; there is only the Christian life. Mark Twain vividly expressed opinion on the subject of the cruelty of God, his abuse and violence on his creations: â€Å"Our Bible reveals to us the character of our God with minute and remorseless exactness. [†¦] In the Old Testament His acts expose His vindictive, unjust, ungenerous, pitiless and vengeful nature constantly. He is always punishing—punishing trifling misdeeds with thousand-fold severity; punishing innocent children for the misdeeds of their parents; punishing unoffending populations for the misdeeds of their rulers; even descending to wreak bloody vengeance upon harmless calves and lambs and sheep and bullocks, as punishment for inconsequential trespasses committed by their proprietors. [†¦] It makes Nero an angel of light and leading, by contrast†. True, the Bible says not to kill, not to steal, love thy neighbor as thyself, love your enemies and so on. Therefore, when we hear the call for

American Industrialization after the Civil War Essay

American Industrialization after the Civil War - Essay Example This period marked the start of the big budgets of federal government and direct governmental liaisons with the corporate sector, especially those that expanded the railroad lines and other infrastructures. Railroads had immensely contributed in Union victory, hauling supplies and ferrying servicemen. Foner avers that the â€Å"second industrial revolution† was achieved with limited government interference in the corporate sector affairs; businesses developed through self-regulation (512). Civil War had taught the average citizens that real economic emancipation would be achieved if everyone played his or her role as required, especially in demanding moments, such as grappling with water privation and power rationing as well as taking up the arms to defend national goals. The short but often severe conflict taught Americans to not only exercise stoicism, but persevere in order to realize sound economic goals. As the country achieved better economic growth and industrialization transformed the nature of American ideology, the society achieved the growth of middle class, and a generation unique innovations within the industries. The country joined forces in the wake of strong government support, a steady supply of labor and a spirit of sacrifice and determination to achieve a mature industrialized society. Gilded Age political system The Gilded Age saw an ineffective political system that failed to effectively meet its goals, despite the fact that the period experienced remarkable economic and social transformations, which required the input of the political leadership. Although, some political figures made significant contribution during this period in an effort to tackle the challenges faced by the society, most national goals went unattended. The failure of the political leadership can be attributed to a larger proportion of the national leaders, who abandoned their call to formulate good policies for the country, maybe because they ascended to office d ue to their financial muscle, rather than ideology. The â€Å"Politics in a Gilded Age† according to Foner, saw influential businessmen control state institutions from the private sector platforms, to the chagrin of public good (523). The political parties in the Gilded Age were divided by parochial interest. The era was marked by rampant corrupt practices in the political system, a culture that presently would be classified as grand corruption, was the order of the day. Businessmen wantonly bought public officers at all levels of government. Political machinations turned democratic elections into a sham, hence denying voters rightful and deserving leaders. The slim majority between Republican and Democratic political parties made both sides unwilling to make good policies for the good of the country for fear of losing political support. In a nutshell, political accountability in the use of public funds; and few legislations passed by Congress drew the country back in terms o f socio-economic progress. The outcome was that the country made slight achievement of national goals. The Gilded Age and American Freedom According to Foner, â€Å"freedom in the Gilded Age,† was a significant aspect of the era (528). The economic growth of the Gilded Age impacted American freedom in the labor market and the running of business in the country. The period influenced the development of a liberal market, with decreased tariffs, affordable taxes, and low inflation

Service Marketing- managing supply and demand Essay

Service Marketing- managing supply and demand - Essay Example Differences between supply and demand occur because services cannot be inventoried, thereby giving it the unique characteristic of ‘perishability’. This is particularly found in sectors such as banking, healthcare, retail and hospitality sectors where the service manager is at a loss trying to balance the supply and demand issues. This is despite the fact that profitability is enhanced if the managers can balance the supply and demand issues (Klassen & Rohleder, 2001). However, with certain changes in the strategy, the supply and demand issues can be managed to some extent. While the different services sector attempt to enhance customer satisfaction levels, they are unable to schedule the services due to the uncertainty of demand. Klassen and Rohleder (2001) find that uncertainty of demand patterns and the inability to make precise demand forecasts have been responsible for the challenge and the struggle that services have been facing in managing capacity and demand. Unc ertainty and fluctuation of demand can be traced to culture and habit. In the banking sector demand changes every five minutes and the off-peak periods could last up to an hour. In the retail sector also demand is marked by uncertainty as the shoppers are not logical in their shopping habits. Services are intangible, perishable, heterogeneous, and inseparable (Gronroos, 1998; Ladhari, 2009).The term â€Å"service† denotes a sense of interpersonal attentiveness which contributes to customer satisfaction (Johns, 1998). However ‘fluctuating service demand’ is the greatest challenge facing the service managers. The challenge is intensified as the demand and the capacity occur simultaneously. Customers have to be served when they want the service and service cannot be inventoried. This is what creates the challenge. The challenge occurs more in capacity-constrained service organizations that face fluctuations in demand. Organizations cannot keep the productive capacit y high when the demand is low. One solution to overcome the challenges of wasting productive capacity is to tailor the capacity as per past experience to meet demand variations (Lovelock). For instance, in the hotel sector, some labor can be on contract basis that can be hired during the peak seasons and laid off during the low seasons. They can even rent out service equipments during low season to make up for low demand. In the service sector it is not possible to schedule customers. When the demand for the hotel rooms does not increase in proportion to the enhanced supply, the revenue per room derived by the hotel is low. The profitability of a company depends upon their ability to extract maximum possible revenue from a fixed quantity of goods and services. This is also known as Yield Management (YM). This allows the hotels and even the airlines to set prices based on the demand. Airlines such as Ryanair, South West Airlines and EasyJet have been proactive and adopted YM (Gothess on & Riman, 2004). This enabled them to maximize capacity utilization. While the new entrants in the airline sector adopted this approach, the established players in the sector initially were reluctant to change their policy. Over time, the older airlines too had to take this approach seriously and bring about changes. Thus flexibility in the pricing can help reduce capacity wastage and encourage maximize capacity utilization. Revenue Management (RM) and YM are interchangeably used. The airlines started using this technique to increase yield by allocating

The Second Law of Thermodynamics Term Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2250 words

The Second Law of Thermodynamics - Term Paper Example For example, human beings undergo the continuous change of aging. This does not make them any better rather their energy, strength and productivity either remains constant or reduce as they age. This means that the arrow of time points to decreasing the order of a product and not increasing. This principle is very much applicable in the fashion design industry and as a fashion designer it is always important to have this in mind. This is a critical review of the second law of thermodynamics and how the arrow of time is applicable to the fashion and design industry. Literature from relevant articles and websites were used to come up with the paper and relevant information recorded. As scientist argues, time is the fourth dimension of the universe. A clock may seem to be the main symbol of time but when one clock stops working, time does not wait for it rather it continuous. Time cannot go backward and so when time passes, it never goes back and we have to move with it. Time is also kn own to have one direction and so it will never go back to where it came from. When we use the Newton’s laws of motion, we can be able to calculate where something came from, however with time this is different. We are not able to calculate the exact position where the arrow of time came from. To understand the arrow of time, we have to look at the theory of entropy. Entropy in physics describes how things are arranged in an orderly manner. The theory of entropy is that if things are arranged in a certain order, then after some time it will become disarranged and disorganized (Kestin 119). Thus if you arrange your books neatly in an office, then you won’t be surprised if the next time you walk in the papers will be a bit disorganized. If you find the papers more organized than you left them then you have to ask yourself a lot of question since it is impossible. This theory of entropy is very important to a fashion designer. The designer has to know that however perfect things might be, they will be disorganized in some way and that they will need to be organized again. The second law of thermodynamics does not focus much on time rather it focuses on the arrangement of particles of matter. The arrow of time assumes that the universe started off in very low entropy meaning that the entire universe was in an organized state. This can also be the same to the products that fashion designers create such as shirts. When we create a shirt today, then the value of the shirt tend to either remain constant over time or decrease in value over some period of time if not sold. This is only on unsold products. Now let’s take an example of a shirt that is sold out. With time, the shirt begins to lose its value and as it gets old, the owner will obviously need another shirt. This is with respect to the second law of thermodynamics and the arrow of time. As a fashion designer, how is this theory important? First of all, this theory is important to the indust ry because as goods lose their value, new ones are needed and so the industry moves on. However before we produce new goods, the industry has to be sure of the amount of time that it takes the goods to totally lose their value in the, market. This will prevent situations where several goods are produced when the previous ones have not yet lost their value. As a result, both goods will end up losing their value at the same time and hence produce loses to the industry. Perfect timing is the key to providing the best goods over time. To know the perfect time for production. We have to study the market and understand the way that goods lose their value. This will ensure that we know exactly when to come up with new products and hence reduce chances of huge

Public presentation thru Communication Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Public presentation thru Communication - Essay Example Public speaking can be a powerful tool to use for purposes such as motivation, influence, persuasion, or simply ethos. Becoming good at public presentations entails a number of principles, that one needs to grasp. It is important to know that presentation goes hand in hand with communication skills. Good communication skills lead to a nice public presentation. One needs to put into practice some of the principles of effective communication skills if he or she has to come out as a good orator. For an effective public presentation, one needs to plan effectively the presentation. Planning entail was writing down an objective statement of what one needs to achieve because of the presentation. The objective statement usually answers the question â€Å"who is my audience and what is the purpose of the talk.† Next, one needs to write down what he thinks he will tell the audience. It is crucial to note that public speaking not only share information but also move people’s minds and hearts and provokes them into changing their behavior. Additionally, research on the topic of discussion is also very important. The second principle entails one overcoming his or her public speaking fear. Most people become nervous at the thought of standing before people and presenting a given speech. In America, for instance 43% of adults rank public speaking as a major block bringing about fear compared to death. Being bold during a public presentation enhances information flow and the way one influences the audience’s emotional balance. Overcoming this fear is a choice that one can decide to take. Confidence eventually leads to an improved public presentation. Finally, it is crucial to note that a practice makes perfect. By so doing, one boosts his or her communication skills and the ability to stand before the public and offer a good presentation. Continuous repletion of something until it becomes second nature is important in ensuring that perfection is

One Way Analysis of Variance Essay Example for Free

One Way Analysis of Variance Essay One-way Analysis of Variance (Abbreviated one-way ANOVA) is a technique used to compare means of two or more samples (using the F distribution). This technique can be used only for numerical data. It consists of a single factor with several levels and multiple observations at each level. With this kind of layout we can calculate the mean of the observations within each level of our factor. The residuals will tell about the variation within each level. It can also average the means of each level to obtain a grand mean. And then look at the deviation of the mean of each level from the grand mean to understand something about the level effects. Finally, can compare the variation within levels to the variation across levels. Hence the name analysis of variance. Used to determine whether there are any significant differences between the means of three or more independent (unrelated) groups. It tests the null hypothesis that samples in two or more groups are drawn from populations with the same mean values. And compares the means between the groups you are interested in and determines whether any of those means are significantly different from each other. Formula F= q MSBMSWWhere: F = Fisher’s Ratio K = Number of Columns N = Total Number of items MSB= SSBK-1 MSW= SSWN-K Attitudes of the 1st, 2nd, 3rd and 4th year EHS students towards their computer subject Attitude| Year| Average Weighted Mean| Rank| | 1st| 2nd| 3rd| 4th| | | Study regularly| 3.44| 3.37| 3.50| 3.56| 3.47| 9| Regularly exercise the skills| 3.73| 3.88| 3.65| 3.58| 3.71| 6.5| Listen attentively during class discussion| 3.62| 3.71| 3.67| 3.85| 3.71| 6.5| Always do the assignment without hesitation| 3.63| 3.73| 3.83| 3.75| 3.75| 5| Always work on projects without hesitation| 3.94| 4.10| 4.12| 4.00| 4.04| 2| Enjoy the hands-on activity| 4.13| 4.38| 4.06| 4.25| 4.21| 1| Search and use other computer reference| 3.83| 3.83| 3.54| 3.92| 3.78| 4| Always take down notes during discussion| 3.67| 3.67| 3.77| 4.04| 3.79| 3| Ask questions whenever the topic is unclear| 3.37| 3.38| 3.54| 3.63| 3.48| 8| Likeability of the subject| 2.98| 3.62| 3.12| 3.25| 3.24| 10| | | | | | | Grand Means| 3.63| 3.77| 3.68| 3.79| 3.72| The table shows the summary of the attitudes of the EHS students towards their computer subject. Having computed the Average Weighted Means, Rank 1 is indicator f, which is â€Å"I enjoy our hands-on activities† with an average mean of 4.21. The Last rank goes to indicator j, which is â€Å"I like my computer subject†, with an average mean of 3.24. This indicates that the EHS students do not like their computer subject. Though the third year likes their computer subject, they are only a fraction of the whole which do not like their computer subject. This further indicates that the students manifest positive attitude towards their computer subject because of the grand weighted mean of 3.72. This signifies that even though they do not like their computer subject, they still manifest positive attitude for they have the majority of the indicators. Reference Anonymous.August 23,2013.One-way analysis of variance. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/One-way_analysis_of_variance Anonymous.August 23,2013.One-way ANOVA. https://statistics.laerd.com/statistical-guides/one-way-anova-statistical-guide.php Anonymous.August 23,2013.One-Way ANOVA. http://www.itl.nist.gov/div898/handbook/ppc/section2/ppc231.htm

Religion In Pompeii And Herculaneum Religion Essay

Religion In Pompeii And Herculaneum Religion Essay Archaeologists in the past and today have recovered and excavated sources to reveal aspects and facts of past societies. The two main cities of Vesuvius, Pompeii and Herculaneum have undergone such excavations, enabling historians of today to reveal facts, in particularly, about religion in the cities. Religion was an important part of an individuals life in both Pompeii and Herculaneum. The religion of the time was polytheistic, meaning that the civilisation believed and worshipped spirits of the Gods. Religion was an active part of everyday life and the worship of offerings was performed in order to keep the Gods satisfied, to ensure the prosperity and safety of all aspects of ones life, and ones family. A number of sources both written and archaeological have provided todays society with facts and evidence of the household Gods and foreign cults of that civilisation. The sources and what they reveal about religion, household Gods and foreign cults, will be explained below. Most sacred, the most hallowed place on earth is the home of each and every citizen. There are his sacred heart and his household Gods, there the very centre of his worship, religion and domestic ritual Cicero. This written source clearly identifies and reveals that the citizens of Pompeii and Herculaneum were intertwined both mentally and emotionally with their religion and spirituality. Cicero describes the religion to be most sacred, revealing that religion played an important, central and significant role in the daily lives and households of an individual and their family. Not only does this source emphasise the importance of religion, but it shows its importance and passion of worship and action within the home. This is revealed through the use of the words, most hallowed place on earth. The worship and rituals of the Household Gods were central and essential within the household and home of an individual. Hence the household Gods were a major and significant aspect of religion in Pompeii and Herculaneum. Many religious practices were celebrated by citizens in their home and household shrine known as the Lararium. Larariums have been found and excavated all over Pompeii and Herculaneum, by modern archaeologists such as Guiseppe Fiorelli. Household Gods sought to save the family from any misfortune or negativity that may enter the door; a spiritual place of the home that needed to be protected by the guardian spirits (Lares) of the households, from incoming evils that may try and enter the home. A lararium excavated in the House of the Vetti, containing a wall painting of the lares (household Gods), a genius (the god of the male line of decent), the Mercury God of commerce and the Dionysus God of wine, depicts and reveals aspects and facts of such household Gods and their importance to an individual and their family. The lararium was found in the atrium, at the entrance of the house. This source is structured and built depicting the front of a temple with columns. This observation revealed to archaeologists that the source has a religious meaning. A wall painting within the infrastructure depicting a temple is an image of the spirit family of genius, Lares, household Gods and other deities. The figure on the furthest left of the image is the genius. The genius wears a toga, in purple symbolising its high ranking and importance, as its the line of male decent to the paterfamilias of the household; prospering fertility for the families continuation. On either side, the Lares o f the household are holding a drinking horn in one hand and a wine bucket in the other. The drinking horns and wine buckets symbolise the offerings of worship and praise towards the Mercury God of commerce (right) and the Dionysus God of Wine (centre).The depiction of drinking horns and wine buckets also symbolise the household prayers and worship that were led by and was a responsibility of the paterfamilias and the offerings of fruit, incense and special cakes were made at the shrine. The snakes below the Lares, which move towards a small altar, have been interpreted as a protective spirit of the Lares and the offerings made to them. The snakes were protectors of prosperity. Pompeii and Herculaneum contained a society that was tolerant and accepting of the worship and rituals brought about by foreign Gods and imported cults. Pompeii and Herculaneum were bombarded with influences from Egypt and Eastern Mediterranean, which affected the structure, traditions and rituals of their religion. Two cults that had a significant affect and presence in Pompeii were the Egyptians cult of Isis and the cult of Bacchus. The cult if Isis, was the goddess of life, fertility and rebirth;A temple of Isis was excavated in Pompeii, revealing that such a cult was worshipped among many in the civilisation as the temples structure proved to be complex and extravagant compared to other temples eg. Surrounded by high walls, initiation hall and an underground chamber storing a basin of holy water retrieved from the Nile River. The worshippers of the cult performed daily rituals and ceremonies carried out by priests at dawn and in the afternoon. Source four, a fresco found in Herculaneum depicts and reveals the ceremonies that took place for the cult of Isis. The fresco shows the high priest standing at the entrance of the temple, looking down on the ceremony beneath. One priest tends to the sacred fire and another priest leads the followers of worship in two rows. In the foreground of the source there are two ibises, sacred to Isis. This source also reveals that women in Pompeii were drawn to this cult, as most worshippers in the fresco appear to be women. It reveals that this cult was widespread, worshipped daily and extremely influential. It also reveals that foreign cults in Pompeii and Herculaneum were accepted and prominent within the civilisation. There is also evidence suggesting the presence of other foreign cults in the cities of Pompeii and Herculaneum. Through the excavation of archaeological sources, cult objects found in Pompeii and the cult of Sabazius has been suggested. There is also various evidence of the existence of Judaism including graffito of Judaic names, frescos and the presence of Jews nearby. Till today, there is much speculation as to whether or not Christianity was present in the cities, as evidence of the crucifixion was found. Religion in Pompeii and Herculaneum was an important and significant part of each individuals homes and daily lives. From the archaeological sources excavated and the written sources produced, it is revealed that the household Gods of each home were the central aspect of living and worship. Each individual lived to favour and fulfil the Gods wants and needs. The sources also reveals facts about the foreign Gods that were brought about to Pompeii and Herculaneum through external influences, like Egypt (cult of Isis), and the significance of such worship for the civilisation. The sources that have been excavated and brought about to todays society reveals facts and helps modern archaeologists gain insight to the unknown of the past. With reference and study of the sources provided in this explanation, the religion of Pompeii and Herculaneum has been revealed. The lares themselves were painted in the lararium. In the lararium painting from the house of the Vetti shown below, the genius is depicted wearing the toga praetexta , bordered in purple, the garment of high-ranking Roman magistrates. The Thermopolium of the Lares in Pompeii shows a typical painting including the snakes associated with protection of food from vermin below the group. The group contains the two lares, the genius of the house, and two further figures Mercury god of commerce and Dionysus god of wine. The paterfamilias was responsible for leading the household prayers at the lararium, and offerings of significance such as first fruits of crops and special cakes, were made at the shrine. The shrine was also garlanded with flowers so there are hooks nearby for this purpose. Of particular importance were family occasions such as birth, marriage and the coming of age of a young man.

The Effects of Underage Drinking on the Brain

The Effects of Underage Drinking on the Brain Corey Negin, Devin Glim, Aman Gill, Helen Marzec, Kimberly Dias Keywords: Alcohol, Brain, Development, Hippocampus, Frontal areas, Cerebellum, Neuroplasticity, Addiction, Deleterious behaviour and Chronic consumption. Rational/Goal: This video will fixate on alcohol, but will explore the effects of underage drinking on the brain, targeted to teenagers. Underage drinking is widespread as adolescents undergo stressful developmental transitional periods rendering them vulnerable to alcohol consumption. Research indicates that adolescents consume a lot of their alcohol intake by binge drinking, which has detrimental effects upon brain development, as brain maturity and refinement is not finalized until an individual reaches their mid-twenties. Subsequently, the brain development compromised by chronic alcohol consumption can promote deleterious behaviours that persist into adulthood and future functioning. Description/Summary: We will first describe the regions in the brain affected by alcohol consumption. Early in development, the brain creates as many synaptic connections as possible. However, development then shifts to creating efficient neural pathways. Our video will delve into the heightened neuroplasticity that occurs within adolescence. This is a duration by which the prefrontal cortex undergoes myelination and extensive synaptic pruning. The prefrontal cortex governs decision-making and concentration. However, periods of binge drinking have been shown to cause significant white matter loss and myelin damage within the prefrontal cortex. Our video will describe the importance of myelination and how myelin sheath aids in increasing nerve impulse speed. Thereafter, we will denote that a compromise within the nerves ability to conduct impulses would result in cognitive impairment. We will then continue onto the structural and functional changes that the hippocampus incurs due to u nderage drinking; specifically, an increase in immature dendritic spines whereby the branches off the nerve cells appear long and thin. The hippocampus is crucial for learning and memory. This therefore cultivates alcohol-induced memory deficits. Furthermore, the altered brain functioning appears to be irreversible. Additional evidence exhibits a thinner prefrontal cortex and smaller hippocampus within adolescent drinking individuals, relative to the age the alcohol consumption began. Script: (Skit beginning)-45secs (Start of party scene; incoherent speaking) (Sees person two stammering, falling over the table, and trying to stand properly) 1: Are you okay? 2: Ye aaà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ Im more than okay! Im gr e aaa t! (Swinging an alcoholic beverage around) Heyà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ heyà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦. (Points towards friend and walks over to them struggling, falling over) Dont you feel great too? 3: Yeah, I feel awesome man! Heyà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ eve ee ryo on e! Le ts taake shoots s! Everyone: Yeah! (Shots by LMFAO playing) 1: Dont you think youve had enough? 2: You can never have enough! (Takes 3 shots in a row) (Continues dancing to the music [Shots by lmfao]) 1: Sure, but dont you also have a paper due on Friday? 2: Do I? I forgot Its okay, I still have a day to do it 1: Its 10 pages 2: What was on again? 1: You dont remember? 2: More relevant things are on my mind, like how great this alcohol is 3: (Nodding in agreement, 3 1 toast with their shot glasses) (Continues to dance, however, while dancing backwards, 2 hits the 3, and both fall face forward, blacking out) [Cut to dream-like scene when 2 is older in university, conducting thesis on underage drinking] Main: 1. Describe brain regions affected by alcohol consumption (eg. prefrontal cortex, hippocampus, cerebellum) [Both structural functional changes) Hippocampus: learning memory (learning new information would become difficult; transfer from short term to long term memory [propagating blackouts]) -Kim- 30secs Many regions of the brain, including the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex, are actively developing throughout ones adolescence, and are therefore more susceptible to damage due to alcohol consumption. The hippocampus is a small part of your brain that processes and stores memories. Drinking excessive alcohol can affects ones ability to form new memories, and hold on to new information. This is because alcohol can impair your brains ability to transfer new learned information from your short term to your long term memory (Hiller-Sturmhà ¶fel, Swartzwelder, 2004). As a result, you may be able to remember whats happening in the moment during a night of drinking, but may find it hard to recall the events that occurred that night the following day. Alcohol can also affect your ability to form new explicit memories, which are memories of facts such as names and phone numbers, or events, like what you did last night. Excessive drinking can cause excessive damage to the hippocampus, resul ting in blackouts: periods of time that you cannot remember what happened at all. (Anderson et al., 2009). Finally, studies have shown a correlation between excessive drinking and a decrease in hippocampus size in the brain. (Debellis et al., 2000). Frontal areas: impulses, thinking through consequences (poor decision making, lack of self control)- Aman -30secsAs soon as we take that shot of vodka, one of the first parts of the brain the alcohol will affect is the frontal lobe, specifically the prefrontal cortex. The prefrontal cortex involves planning complex cognitive behaviour, attention, and decision making (Abernathy, Chandler, Woodward, 2010). Therefore, it should come to no surprise that alcohols profound effects on the prefrontal cortex, ultimately impair our ability to make rational decisions, as well as our reasoning and judgement! In fact, George, Rogers Duka, conducted a study among social drinkers to assess the decisions they made through various gambling tasks. They concluded that acute alcohol intake lead them to make significantly more risky decisions (George, Rogers, Duka, 2005). To add, another study conducted on the effects of adolescent binge drinking and decision making showed a high association between r elatively more disadvantageous decisions and those who started binge drinking at an early age (Goudriaan, Grekin, Sher, 2007). So how exactly does alcohol lead us to tell our crush how obsessed we are with them? The prefrontal cortex inhibits cortical and subcortical structures, which help prevent us from the urges to say something socially unacceptable (Munakata et al., 2011). Alcohol affects the NMDA glutamate receptors by inhibiting these same inhibitory effects of the prefrontal cortex, essentially making us disinhibited (Tu et al., 2007)! Cerebellum: motor control (balance; difficulties standing or walking)- Devin 20secsAlong with the hippocampus and frontal areas, the cerebellum may also be affected by heavy adolescent alcohol consumption. The cerebellums main functions are to control motor function while also participating in cognitive learning related to spatial awareness (Doya, 2000). This is why we have difficulties walking, standing, or even preventing our drink from accidentally spilling on our crush as we tell them how much we like them! Unfortunately, these difficulties can become long-lasting as alcohol can change the biochemical function of the cerebellum (Ward et al., 2009). Microglia levels (the brains immune cells) also increase in response to alcohol exposure, resulting in an increase in the inflammation of the surrounding brain tissue, leading to eventual long term neuronal death (Riikonen et al., 2002) 2. Heightened neuroplasticity that occurs during adolescent brain development (myelination, synaptic pruning; see letter of intent for more)- 30secs 3. The brain isnt fully developed until 25 years old thereby critical development is interrupted [Explain the long term lasting consequences]- 30secs Adolescence is a time between childhood and adulthood whereby neural development is composed by physical, psychological and social changes marking this a period of vulnerability and adjustment (Bourque et al., 2016). It also marks a time of increased emotional reactivity and sensitivity which contributes to a greater degree of addiction during the developmental period (Bourque et al., 2016; Case, Jones, Hare, 2008). Indeed, neuroplasticity, the ability to form new neural connections, is influenced by the environment, and particularly within adolescence when the brain is still within development (Hiller-Sturmhà ¶fel Swartzwelder, 2004). The cognitive development that occurs during adolescence is linked to greater cognitive control and modulation whereby increased activation in the prefrontal regions is indicative of maturity (Bourque et al., 2016; Case, Jones, Hare, 2008). However, adolescents indulge in deleterious and high-risk behaviour such as binge drinking which significant ly impair the neuroplasticity of the brain, involving the myelination of the prefrontal fiber tracts (Clark, Thatcher, Tapert, 2008). As myelin sheath aids in increasing nerve impulse speed, a compromise within the nerves ability to conduct impulses results in cognitive impairment. The rational portion of an adolescents brain isnt fully developed until 25 years old therefore obstructing connections in the prefrontal cortex hinders the adolescents social and mental health trajectories for years to come. 4. Susceptibility to addiction (Underage drinkers are 4x more likely to develop an addiction to alcohol, as opposed to an individual who waits until legal drinking age) [Basically the conclusion? Can also do a bit of an introduction about binge drinking in general to lead into the portion about the structural/functional changes that occur]-30secs Corey To wrap things up, underage drinkers are 4x more likely to develop an addiction to alcohol as opposed to an individual who waits until legal drinking age to start consuming! As a result, binge drinking can start to develop, which is the consumption of excess amounts of alcohol in a short period of time. Binge drinking can lead to many structural and functional changes such as difficulty walking, blurred vision, slurred speech, slowed reaction times and impaired memory. It is important to note that maturational changes in brain anatomy, connectivity, and function continue well into late adolescence. To date, imaging studies using different modalities have consistently reported that alcohol use during adolescence is associated with abnormalities in brain structure, function and connectivity. Furthermore, the altered brain functioning appears to be irreversible. Additional evidence exhibits a thinner prefrontal cortex and smaller hippocampus within adolescent drinking individuals, relat ive to the age the alcohol consumption began.So is it really worth it? I dont think so! Yes you are a teenager but I promise you, you dont need alcohol to have fun! (Skit ending)-20secs 2 wakes up to people looking over him 3: Hey man, are you okay? 2: Yeah, I think so 3: Are you down to take another shot? The alcohol is almost finished, and I saved the best for last 2: (Thinks back to what has happened) 2: No, its okay I have a paper to doà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ (Scratches head; zooming in on face) 2: (Face expression displayed is sort of like this: https://media.giphy.com/media/pai7N0iFj01CU/giphy.gif) Camera zooms out; scene fades to black) Examples of videos with alike infrastructure relative to alcohol the developing brain: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EY37BFmVxwQ (Animation) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g2gVzVIBc_g (Animation) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j_Pe4R9Myu4 (Animation; brain scans shown) Member Contributions: All 5 group members equally contributed to the research and writing of the script for this video. Helen is the facilitator for the knowledge translation video, and is responsible for the part of the video pertaining to the heightened neuroplasticity that occurs during development. Aman is responsible for the portion that covers the effects of alcohol on the prefrontal cortex, and Kimberly is responsible for the effects of alcohol on the hippocampus and memory. Devin is responsible for alcohols effect on the cerebellum and motor control, and Corey for Conclusion and take home messages. Helen will also be narrating the audio for the video, while we all will be involved in the production of the skit, and editing of the video cuts and final video. Finally, all 5 group members will be equally contributing to the production and editing of this video. References Abernathy, K., Chandler, L. J., Woodward, J. J. (2010). Alcohol and the prefrontal cortex. International review of neurobiology, 91, 289-320. Anderson, P., De Bruijn, A., Angus, K., Gordon, R., Hastings, G. (2009). Impact of alcohol advertising and media exposure on adolescent alcohol use: a systematic review of longitudinal studies. Alcohol and alcoholism, 44(3), 229-243. Bourque, J., Baker, T., Dagher, A., Evans, A., Garavan, H., Leyton, M. et al. (2016). Effects of delaying binge drinking on adolescent brain development: a longitudinal neuroimaging study. BMC Psychiatry, 16(1). http://dx.doi.org/10.1186/s12888-016-1148-3 Casey, B. J., Jones, R. M., Hare, T. A. (2008). The adolescent brain. Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences, 1124(1), 111-126. Clark, D. B., Thatcher, D. L., Tapert, S. F. (2008). Alcohol, psychological dysregulation, and adolescent brain development. Alcoholism: Clinical and Experimental Research, 32(3), 375-385. De Bellis, M. D., Clark, D. B., Beers, S. R., Soloff, P. H., Boring, A. M., Hall, J., Keshavan, M. S. (2000). Hippocampal volume in adolescent-onset alcohol use disorders. American Journal of Psychiatry, 157(5), 737-744. Doya, K. (2000). Complementary roles of basal ganglia and cerebellum in learning and motor control. Current opinion in neurobiology, 10(6), 732-739. George, S., Rogers, R. D., Duka, T. (2005). The acute effect of alcohol on decision making in social drinkers. Psychopharmacology, 182(1), 160-169. Goudriaan, A. E., Grekin, E. R., Sher, K. J. (2007). Decision making and binge drinking: a longitudinal study. Alcoholism: Clinical and Experimental Research, 31(6), 928-938. Hiller-Sturmhà ¶fel, S., Swartzwelder, H.S. (2004). Alcohols Effects on the Adolescent Brain-What Can Be Learned From Animal Models. Alcohol Research and Health, 28(4), 213-221 Munakata, Y., Herd, S. A., Chatham, C. H., Depue, B. E., Banich, M. T., OReilly, R. C. (2011). A unified framework for inhibitory control. Trends in cognitive sciences, 15(10), 453-459. Riikonen, J., Jaatinen, P., Rintala, J., Pà ¶rsti, I., Karjala, K., Hervonen, A. (2002). Intermittent ethanol exposure increases the number of cerebellar microglia. Alcohol and alcoholism, 37(5), 421-426. Squeglia, L. M., Jacobus, J., Tapert, S. F. (2009). The influence of substance use on adolescent brain development. Clinical EEG and neuroscience, 40(1), 31-38. Tu, Y., Kroener, S., Abernathy, K., Lapish, C., Seamans, J., Chandler, L. J., Woodward, J. J. (2007). Ethanol inhibits persistent activity in prefrontal cortical neurons. Journal of Neuroscience, 27(17), 4765-4775. Ward, R. J., Lallemand, F., De Witte, P. (2009). Biochemical and neurotransmitter changes implicated in alcohol-induced brain damage in chronic or binge drinking alcohol abuse. Alcohol and Alcoholism, 44(2), 128-135.

Essay --

INTRODUCTION Nowadays. Information technology (IT) is a familiar term for the people and the expert. This technology is developing rapidly and introducing in all social fields as well as influencing on all sciences and being affected by the other sciences. All processes and steps of remedial –healthy cares have been depended heavily on management information and its transfer. Information technology is also used increasingly for new medical practices, effective and active management of health cares and medical profession knowledge. In medical profession is necessarily required the informed scientists and intelligent expert having enough knowledge of related matters, comprehensive knowledge of medical devices and its technology as well as information and communication technologies. Medical informatics (data processing ) science which is developing and growing rapidly includes decision making based on the information, therapy display, systematic management, information saving and its retainin g, management system, model identifying and image and signal processing. Expert system is a subdivision of artificial intelligence and an expert system is the one having expertise within a special field and may be applied to that field for decision making and/or helping the expert people for decision making [1]. Expert system is a component of the process for intelligently automation of the processes regarded as artificial intelligence. Once John MC charty created Lisp language in masachoset institute of technology in 1960, it was as the initial step toward an expert system . from that date onward, a variety of expert systems have been developed and applied like CMS, XI-PLUS, ROSIE, OPS5, EMYCIN, EXPERT and so on. An expert system is comprised o... ... beyond the studying of direct relationship and subject not found among the nodes. Maybe the most important problem in giving the network and the most important interests in processing rule were needed to be identified gradually and this need was related to both the knowledge and cognition of small zone parts and the alignment of experts sharing in this study. since the expert did not use these cases for autopsy and interpreting , their clinical reasoning, asking them to say whatever they know was completely vain. Nevertheless, discussing with some special patients with severe diseases and encouraging our colleagues in interpreting the trends and their decisions, some of them who were n’t expert in a field got information about a piece of knowledge of applied environment, that is, personal inferencial realities which an expert regards them in solving the problem[2].

A Confederate Officer from Pennsylvania, and His Ties to the South :: essays research papers fc

The American Civil War was a very traumatic time for this country. The idea of Americans purposefully killing other Americans in battle just sends chills up most of our spines. This was true for the ordinary combat soldiers, the officers executing battle plans, or for those fortunate officers who were of administrative importance to the war. Everyone involved was fighting for a cause, the South was highly effective at converting this cause into a determination to fight and win the war. It is possible that those individuals involved in the fighting had a much stronger belief in the cause, since they risked life and limb everyday and every battle. This is found not to be true. Even though the non-combat Confederates did not engage the enemy first hand they too had a direct emotional response to the cause and for defense of the South.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Josiah Gorgas was the Chief Ordinance officer for the Confederacy. Josiah Gorgas was born into a Poor Pennsylvania family on July, 1st, 1818. Once of age Josiah Gorgas enrolled at West Point, where he graduated 6th in his class. His focus was on military ordinance and logistics. He was commissioned to the U.S. Army Ordinance department, where he remained until the Civil War broke out. Gorgas married his wife Amelia Gayle Gorgas while he was stationed in Alabama in 1853. Mrs. Gorgas was the daughter of a prominent Alabama politician and ex-governor named John Gayle. This highly influential family that Josiah Gorgas connects himself too casually persuades him to identify with Southerners and the Southern Cause. Josiah Gorgas feels more at home with his wife’s family than with his own. This may have been in part because Josiah was not home much after going to West Point. He felt disenfranchised from his family once the War broke out.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  It is interesting to see how an educated man from the North can just simply change to the Southern vantage point. The transition Josiah Gorgas made from a Northerner to a Southerner is not covered in his journal. He avoids the issue and it is difficult to see why. I believe Josiah Gorgas resented the fact that his family was poor. When Josiah Gorgas was stationed in the South he was a white officer, which put him in the upper class of this highly aristocratic society. I believe Josiah Gorgas enjoyed his social standing in the South as well as the hospitality that came with it.

Exploring Teaching Methods that Help Engage Students Essay -- Educatio

Considering a stereotypical class room, the bell rings, students are almost in their seats, and the teacher is demanding their attention. It is hard for the teacher to gain the attention let alone the willingness to learn from their students. No matter what subject is being taught, this has the recipe for boredom from the get go. Any curiosity or imagination for the students has been choked. In order for the teacher to gain the eagerness to learn from his students, he would have to resort to all the mental keenness he could muster. No matter how gifted the teacher, students tend to lose interest in learning in an everyday run of the mill style of class room environment. What creative power or what unusual and highly innovated resource can be implemented into a classroom that has been limited by tradition, a lack of creativity, and monotony? The answer is not a teacher who has an ingenious nature or who is a skilled innovator. The answer relies on the teacher’s methods. There are many different methods that have proved to be effective. Activities such as group lead discussion, group discovery, and teacher lead critical thinking discussions have proved effective in integrating different learning styles (Chick). Another method that will stimulate the imagination, and arouse the analytical side of learners is implementation of audio visuals and visual aids for the introduction, during the lectures, prompts for discussions, and even for the closure of class (Atkinson 2). This is a tool – a resource that needs to be tapped. Lastly, setting up the classroom into groups of desks and even changing the classroom on a day to day basis that will emulate what kind of methods are being used for that day by the teacher keeps lear... ...ary Module. ProQuest. Grafton Library, Fredericksburg, Va. 17 Nov. 2008 Olson, Allan. . "Technology that MOVES Assessment and Student Achievement FORWARD. " MultiMedia & Internet@Schools 1 Nov. 2004: 26-28. Education Module. ProQuest. Grafton Library, Fredericksburg, VA. 13 Feb. 2009 Strassman, Barbara K., and Trisha O'Connell. "Authoring with video." The Reading Teacher 61.4 (Dec 2007): 330(4). General OneFile. Gale. LIRN. 3 Oct. 2008 . Teachable Moments. Morningside Center for Teaching Social Resposibilities. 13 Feb 2009 . Wong, Harry, and Rosemary Wong. How To Be An Effective Teacher: The First days of School Mountain View, CA: Harry K. Wong Publications, Inc, 2004.

Evolutionary Explanations of Food Preference Essay

Evolution is the change in inherited characteristics of biological populations over successive generations. The environment our early ancestors lived in must be understood to understand why they adapted to certain behaviours or characteristics. This environment is known as EEA (environment of evolutionary adaption). Natural history and science have found that our species has spent much of its life as hunter-gatherers so by looking at their role we can investigate food preferences from an evolutionary perspective. Early human diets consisted of what was around them at the time and what pressured them to eat it. Humans had a preference for fatty foods as it would have been adaptive as conditions in the EEA meant that energy resources were vital to survive until the next meal. In addition calories were not as plentiful and therefore fatty foods were vital. Gibson and Wardle conducted a food preference study by observing the food choices made of children. Children naturally preferred more calorific foods, suggesting the food choices to be innate as children have not been exposed much to other influences such as social or cultural factors as other age groups. On the other hand fatty foods have been proven harmful if eaten in excess and therefore counters the claim that they are beneficial, as a diet on fatty foods would not be possible for survival. However, early humans did not live to the age of humans today and it is in the later age where diseases come as a result of excess fatty foods. Human preference for meat is said to have occurred due to the large decline in forestry 2 million years ago as the nutritional source declined. Meat is rich in nutrients and therefore appropriate alternative food consumption. The diet consisted of mainly the brain and liver and kidneys as they were rich in nutrients. Foley and Lee compared primate eating strategies with brain size, and found those eating meat had larger brain size and greater intelligence then primates who didn’t eat meat. This tells us that it was evolutionarily favoured to eat meat as it allowed us to grow in intelligence and become who we are today. In addition, Stanford also found that when observing other primates eat, they would eat the brain or bone marrow. This supports human preference for meat as early humans also ate meat such as the brain due to its high content of nutrients. Never the less both these supporting studies both used other primates than humans to identify early human diets and eating behaviours. This however may not be generalizable as the differences between humans and other primates could be our food preferences, resulting in poor external validity. Although it is particularly impressive if a range of findings in different species are consistent. Taste aversion also known as bait shyness is a form of food preference derived from an adaptive response to food which is bad for you. The development of taste aversion is adaptive as it prevents the organism from eating foods which were harmful, and as taste aversion is still possible 24hrs after eating the food it allows slow releasing toxins or poisons from being detected. In contrast animals can be seen to have a preference for foods which have medicinal or beneficial properties. Garcia found when a specific flavour is presented with a thymine to a thymine deficient rat the rat acquires a taste towards the flavour, supporting the role of taste aversion in supplying food preference. Furthermore Seligman claimed different species evolved different learning abilities, which was called biological preparedness, which allows each species to find associations more easily than others depending on if it helps them survive. This evolutionary theory states that food preference is determined based on our innate characteristics which have helped us survive as a species. It fails to consider the current environmental or social factors such as the effect of cultural factors. For example our innate food choices do not cover our broad range of food likes and dislikes such as in the eastern world they have a large preference for spicy food but in the UK often it is not the case. Furthermore mood has been seen to affect food preference, such as Garg et al found when in a sad mood people eat more sweet snacky foods however in a happy mood more likely to eat healthy foods.

Literature and Culture Essay

I. Literature – General Introduction â€Å"Literature is my Utopia. Here I am not disenfranchised. No barrier of the senses shuts me out from the sweet, gracious discourses of my book friends. They talk to me without embarrassment or awkwardness† (Helen Keller) Keller could not have been more correct in this insight about literature, and scarcely would anyone who has had a lifetime with the written word raise any issue about its faultlessness. Man with his complex, often unfathomable and unpredictable thoughts, feelings and actions, and many times restrained by societal norms from openly exposing what he has inside him, considers literature as a socially acceptable vehicle for unrestrained self-expression. Literature is life. It is a mirror of man’s desires and aspirations, his ambitions and accomplishments, his fears and anxiety, his joyful and fulfilling moments. Through it, he records his experiences of triumphs and downfalls, laughter and anguish, determination and indecision—from things phenomenal to matters mundane. It is only through literature that the human mind is able to successfully transcend all material barriers to reveal its essence which constitutes the â€Å"isness† of man’s being. Literature, then, is the totality of humanity. The famous French philosopher Jean-Paul Sartre succinctly said it all in the following line: â€Å"If literature is not everything, it’s not worth a single hour of someone’s trouble† (http://www. brainyquote. com/quotes/keyword/literature. html). What is Literature? ? So broad and deep is the extent and scope of literature that putting up a definition for it is almost like limiting its parameters. However, for academic purposes, it will be relevant to explain what the concept encompasses. ? On a general perspective, anything that is written is classified as literature. ? On a stricter sense, however, and across cultures and ages, literature is associated with a poem, or a fiction article, or a stage play, a book or a classroom lesson. ? Literature, as the body of written works of a language, period or culture, and produced by scholars and researchers, reminds us of stories, epics, sacred scriptures and classical works of the ancient and modern times. Literary works are portrayals of the thinking patterns and social norms prevalent in society. Classical literary works serve as a food for thought, imagination and creativity. ? A literary article should interest, entertain, stimulate, broaden the imagination and experience, or ennoble the reader (Roberts 2). It springs as an idea from the need of its creator to get across a thought or feeling. The writer starts from an experience or set of experiences, real or imagined, which he thinks he needs to share with his public. Working on his creative tablet, he recreates the facts to reflect true-to-life happenings, or invents incidents, places, and characters and puts thoughts into the latter’s minds and words in their mouths. Or he may decide to compress an otherwise long factual or imagined story in a few metered or rhythmical lines. The result is an original text that satisfies its creator’s purpose– a literary article, an imaginative literature. ? Kirszner & Mandell explain that the word â€Å"literature† immediately stirs in the mind the concept of â€Å"imaginative literature† (1). Imaginative Literature is one which temporarily transports the reader to a different world, away from the physical and emotional realities of his existence, where he could be free to view the world with his own eyes and heart. Imaginative literature is not confined to print. A substantial number of orally transmitted imaginative literatures have set the traditions in their respective genres and have remained among the most respectable pieces in the literatures of the world. Why should we value literature? Literature that is imaginative can have far-reaching effects on the reader (Kirzner & Mandell 2-3).? The characters, scenes, images, powerful language, and carefully and masterfully developed plot can delight the reader and offer him an ephemeral escape from the stiffness, boredom, even cruelty of the world around him. ? It can transport the reader out of the limits of his time and space, and get him into seeing another possible phase of life. Meaningful insights can be drawn from wholesome literary texts. ? It can bring him to a level where he is able to see his life more objectively, up close and personal. This is because literature reveals truths about humanity. More than a mere description of people and what they do, literature brings the reader to a slice of virtual life in which he (the reader) consciously experiences his humanity. This is an added value of literature. ? It is an avenue for him to view and understand his own experiences and those of others. Reflecting can make him more sensitive to the needs of others and his own. Literature, then, can serve as a value guide as well as a lead to an analysis of values and meanings about the realities in life. ? Imaginative literature is founded on facts—history, pure science, psychology, sociology, anthropology, mathematics, and other branches of knowledge. The information load it carries can be another added value to the reader. Similarly, literature that is imaginative has marked values for the writer (Krizner & Mandell 3). ? It is a creative avenue for self-expression. A writer can unravel the ill-effects of cultural patterns and norms, and can suggest ways to remedy a stinking system through the characters of his short story, novel, or play, or the persona in poetry. Also, he reveals his individuality and uniqueness as a writer in the way he manipulates the elements of his genre—character, setting, language, format, and style. ? It is an expression of common cultural values. A writer has his own mind about a problem or issue, but that â€Å"thought† is molded by the collective sentiment, aspiration, philosophy, value, even fears of the community or cultural group he belongs to. Literature provides opportunities for the transport of these ethnic or cultural thoughts, feelings, and biases to peoples across cultural borders. It is in this way that literature can stand as the conscience and consciousness of the community which created it. Literary Genres and Culture Traditions in literature include classifying works into literary types or genres. Genre classification can have several advantages (web. nchu. edu. tw/~chtung/1986. doc. 2-6). ? It can bring about an order or a system in the handling of literary texts and, in effect, facilitates choice of materials akin to one’s interests, which can result in greater understanding and appreciation. For example, a reader who has an ear for musicality and rhythm will pick up a poetic text more likely than he would a book of fiction. ? It has resulted in the writing of standards for each genre. With the aid of these writing standards, literary creators are able to craft their works more systematically. Thoughtfully going over the standards for a drama will aptly arm a novice writer to focus on what the audience will look for in a play. Conversely, a critic who is familiar with genre standards will know exactly what to look for in a literary work.? The existence of genre classification is one avenue that can lead to the meeting of minds between the reader and the writer. When the brain has identified beforehand what it is looking for in a text (schemata-text matching through knowledge of specific genre), comprehension of the text will be less stressful, less threatening and more enjoyable. Culture-based Literary Traditions 1. Genre Classifications. The presence of traditional and universally recognized genres does not dictate the uniformity of genre classifications and the standards for each genre. Not all genre classifications are present in all places, and not all places observe the same standards for each classification. Every culture has its own genre, owing to the variations in the experiences and aspirations of the people in each culture. For example ? The sonnet which is common in western traditions is not well known in China or among the Arab nations ( Kirszner & Mandell 2). ?The kabuki play of Japan has as yet no counterpart in western countries (Kirszner & Mandell 2). ? We still have to see a counterpart of the Filipino pasyon in other literary traditions. 2. Narrative organization conventions. The standards on the presentation of events in a plot can vary from culture to culture specifically with orally transmitted literature (Kirszner & Mandell 2). For example: ? Some native American and African stories dating to the early stage of cultural development are arranged spatially, not chronologically as is the tradition in almost all cultures. All incidents that took place in one setting are narrated, then the narration moves to focus on all the incidents in another setting, and so on until all the events are completely retold. Even character development is not given as much focus in some traditional African and Native American stories as it is in present-day fiction (Kirszner & Mandell 3). 3. Character development. Present-day fiction puts much emphasis on the identity and the development of character. This is not so in some traditional African and Native American stories. Kirszner & Mandell state that in some of these narratives, characters are sometimes not named and can even switch roles towards the end of the story (3). Genre Classifications and Time Earlier literary works were grouped more generally than those in the present. Contemporary literature is lumped into four big groups—prose fiction, poetry, nonfiction prose, and drama (Roberts 3) while earlier traditions recognized three groups– fiction, non-fiction and poetry. The drama in its traditional form used verse, which explains why it was categorized as poetry. Although not markedly divergent from the present literary groupings, the â€Å"old† genre classification reflects those which societies then considered to be what mattered most. The Genres of Literature Critics could not seem to agree on one best way literary writings should be grouped; however, most authorities name four categories for classifying literature (Roberts 3). 1. Narrative fiction or prose fiction. This is the literary type which first comes to mind when the word fiction is mentioned. Narration, or retelling past events, is what makes fiction what it is. ? Narrative fiction gives an account of a series of events, factual or imagined but mostly imagined.? One character, the protagonist, or a few characters is/are at the center of these  events, causing them to happen and or causing him to be transformed. ? He is confronted with a problem, the solution of which is his primary concern, and the action he takes towards its resolution is the reason for his transformation. He may or may not overcome the problem. ? Some events in fictional narratives are drawn from historical incidents but fictionalized through change of names, places, and time, and a slight tweak in the plot. ? Through narrative fiction, the author is able to express his thoughts about a problem or issue, and/or is able to entertain. Classifications of Narrative Fiction a. Myth. This prose fiction, which punctuates the literary beginnings of practically every cultural group, is a story centered on how the gods related to humans—how certain places, beings, and places came to be, how the gods’ biases made some people’s lives fulfilling and rendered others’ lives miserable, how conflicts among the mortals affected the gods or vice versa. Myths can also be about struggles among cultural heroes, each one representing the time-established beliefs of a particular cultural group. b. Parable. This is a short narrative about some ordinary experiences of a group of people and is meant to connect to the teaching of a certain moral, or the hammering home of a philosophical, social, religious, or political teaching. The Jewish tradition best exemplifies the use of parables. c. Romance. This refers to lengthy Spanish and French stories of the 16th and 17th centuries, especially about the adventures and ordeals of the royalty and the members of their court. It can also refer to modern formulaic stories describing the growth of an impulsive, profound and powerful love relationship. d. Short story. Owing to its comparative brevity, this is the most popular type of narrative fiction. The plot may revolve around one or two main characters facing a difficulty. There are high as well as low points in their lives but, almost always, each one’s life will not go back to exactly the same point where it began. Because of the little space dictated by the shortened form of the text, interactions and relationships resulting in changes in character, no matter how subtle, are described briefly. e. Novel. This is a short story in extended form. Length being its advantage over the short story, the novel permits the full and sometimes exhaustive development of the interactions that lead to changes in some characters’ disposition, thoughts, feelings, or aspirations (Roberts 5). 2. Poetry. A poem is a literary form that â€Å"expresses a monologue or a conversation grounded on the most deeply felt experiences of human beings† (Kirszner & Mandell 522). ? It is acclaimed as the oldest and the most popular among the literary forms. ? It is the most variable in length, running from a few syllables, as in the Japanese haiku, to hundreds of stanzas, as in the epic.? The language is compressed in a few lines or verses arranged in conformity with the principles of form, rhythm, and sometimes meter and rhyme. ? It has a rich imagery and suggestive forms of expression, making it the most puzzling and, therefore, the most open to multiple interpretations. These qualities make poetry â€Å"unique† (Roberts 5). ? Among earlier cultures, for example, Greek and Roman, poetry served as a vehicle for the expression of the spiritual and the philosophical. With the passing of time, poetry has gained an added value—that of expressing the most profound ideas and the deepest emotions of humanity. Across the cultures of the present, poetry remains to inspire, to delight, and to serve as a vehicle for the concerns of the heart (Kirszner & Mandell 522). Classifications of Poetry f. Narrative poetry. This is a story in verse, of which there are two familiar forms: i. Epic. Apparently the more familiar of the two, an epic is a narrative account in verse of the accomplishments of a heroic figure, a folk hero who exhibits extraordinary physical powers and superhuman dispositions, of gods, and other supernatural entities. The account covers a wide expanse of time and place, and reflects the cultural characteristics of the people who wrote it. Although some epics are credited to particular authors, others are ascribed to their countries or cultures of origin. This is because epics of old were handed down orally, in plain verse or in song, and, as a result, grew and developed as they passed from one generation to the next, eventually mirroring the evolution of the people’s traditions and norms. Of worldwide renown are The Iliad of Homer, The Aeneid of Virgil, Beowulf of the Anglo-Saxons, and Mahabharata of the Hindus. ii. Ballad. Like the epic, the ballad traces its origin to oral tradition. Originally intended to be sung, this narrative poem carries one outstanding characteristic–its use of repetition of words and phrases, including a refrain. g. Lyric Poetry. This poem does not attempt to tell a story. Possessing a very personal and subjective nature, it conveys the speaker’s feelings, biases and aspirations, state of mind, and perceptions in a melodious mood. Lyric poetry sub-types include the following (Kirzsner & Mandell 525-526): iii. Ode. This is a long lyric poem which is, generally, on a serious subject, such as an important concept (for example, freedom), person, or any other entity in nature (for example, the sun) and with a formal poetic diction and meditative mood. The poem centers on the speaker’s observations about the subject and usually winds up with an effort towards shedding light on an emotional problem. Owing to its Greek origin, it is often intended to be recited or sung by two choruses. iv. Elegy. This lyric sub-type is meant to mourn the passing of a specific person. As such, it is characterized by a melancholy and plaintive mood and an ending that offers consolation. It may also reflect what the author considers to be mysterious, uncertain, or strange. v. Pastoral. In contrast to the elegy, the pastoral has a light, happy, even romantic mood as it celebrates the simplicity and idyll of country life. vi. Occasional poem. This poem is meant for a particular event, for example, a wedding, the installation of a prominent church leader, the putting up of a landmark, or a president’s inaugural. vii. Poems on everyday activities. Poems are sometimes written to express the writer’s feelings or describe his experiences about day-to-day events, for example, going about the daily chores, herding the animals back to their corral, or riding the trolley. viii. Aubade. This poetic form is specifically written to celebrate or lament the coming of a new day, specifically the arrival of morning. Dawn is often welcomed with joy and hope, but it can also bring despair to a persona who sees it as a signal to leave his lover. ix. Meditation. An ordinary object can be used as a vehicle to consider important, more serious issues. A poem that is focused on this is called meditation. Kriszner and Mandell cite Edmund Waller’s Go, Lovely Rose as an example (526) in which the speaker tells the rose meant to be delivered to his lady love his message for the lady. Far more important than his words of adoration is his advice for the lady not to waste the charm and time bestowed upon her since time flies and beauty fades in no time. x. Dramatic monologue. In this poem, the speaker addresses one or more listeners who is/are absent. In the process, the speaker unravels the dramatic aspect of the situation and reveals his psychological and emotional side of the issue at hand, which is usually less interesting than how he (the speaker) treats it. Some authors use the term dramatic lyric. xi. Some authors classify the epigram, a verse in two to four lines with characteristic wit and sarcasm, under lyric poetry Cited as a classic example is Alexander Pope’s On the Collar of a Dog (voices. yahoo. com) which runs in two lines. In most cases, however, an epigram is not a stand-alone piece but forms part of a longer poetic composition. xii. Other cultures have their own types of lyric poems, e. g. , ghazal in Urdu, and rondeau in French. h. Satirical Poetry. As far back as the days of the Roman empire, poetry was already used as a powerful vehicle for political purposes. This tradition continues to these days. Many who are disgruntled with any system or structure choose to amplify their bitterness and discontent artistically through carefully crafted satirical poems. Poetry can have several forms. i. Sonnet. It comes in 14 lines arranged in three quatrains and a couplet [Shakespearean or English] or an octave and a sestet [Petrarchan or Italian]. The iambic pentameter is generally used in sonnets. ii. Cinquian. It has five short lines with the following pattern: line 1 – one word or 2 syllables; line 2 – 2 words or 4 syllables; 3 words or 6 syllables; 4 words or 8 syllables; 1 word or 2 syllables. iii. Haiku. This is a verse of Japanese origin consisting of three unrhymed lines of 5 – 7 – 5 morae (quantity of time equivalent to a short syllable). A traditional haiku carries a word pertaining to the seasons and a cutting word, called kireji, used at the end of one of the three lines. Incidentally, there is no English equivalent of the cutting word concept (www. poemofquotes. com/haiku). iv. Tanka. Like the haiku, tanka is a Japanese verse but consists of five lines. The first and third lines carry five syllables each while the rest of the lines have seven syllables each. v. Concrete poem. This poem uses typography—the appearance of the printed text—to enhance its message. Thus, visual elements such as punctuation marks, symbols, and arrangement of words on the printed page, or the shape of the poem, are elemental in driving home the writer’s message. A poem about the magical sounds of a bell is shaped like a flower, while one that has nature as subject may take the shape of a tree or a bird. Visual poems, pattern poems, and size poems are examples of concrete poems (www. poemsofquotes. com/articles/concrete-poetry. php). vi. Blank verse. This type of verse uses unrhymed iambic pentameter. vii. Free verse. Unlike the blank verse, this type of verse may be rhymed or unrhymed but does not observe a fixed meter. 3. Drama. This literary genre is meant to be presented on stage. Actors portray the events in the story as though these were happening in the  present. Like narrative fiction, there is a problem around which all action revolves. At the center maybe a single character or a small number of characters who carry the burden of resolving the conflict and on whose actions and thoughts the attention of the audience is largely focused. The protagonist may overcome the problem or may be overcome by it. Unlike in a narrative fiction, the audience in a drama are able to actually witness the fictional events as they happen, making the experience direct and closer to life than in narrative fiction. i. Tragedy. Often associated with the bizarre and the disastrous, and in keeping with Greek tradition, this type of drama is focused on â€Å"treating serious subjects and involving persons of significance† (Kirszner & Mandell 917, citing Aristotle’s Poetics). ? At the center of the drama is a character, the protagonist, who is noble, respected, perfect from almost all angles, except for one flaw which is not obvious at the start but which will later manifest to a very crucial point that will suffice to cause his downfall. ? A very important lesson is conveyed here—man’s condition in life is one of  nobility. ? The purpose of the play is to bring the audience to an experience of pity for the central character as he wrestles with the trials in his life and with experiences of fear of going through the same situation. ? The audience is expected to leave the theater with the resolution to not follow the tragic path which the central character of the play took. j. Comedy. This type of drama sits on the other end of the spectrum. It is designed to â€Å"treat themes and characters with humor and typically has a happy ending† (Kirszner & Mandell 917). ? The main character is an ordinary individual whose life is open to the public, and whom the public knows to be carrying a mask of his true self all along. ? The comedy is meant to take away that mask from the protagonist and to reveal to the audience his simplicity and foolishness, his lack of understanding of things, his being â€Å"selfish, hypocritical, vain, weak, irrational, and capability for self-delusion† (Kirszner & Mandell 917). ? Ironically, it is the comedy that brings entertainment and laughter to the audience who, unknowingly, is the subject of criticism of the action in the  play. k. Farce. This is a humorous play. But unlike the comedy, the plot does not depend on the development of a character but on a situation that is exploited ingeniously. The term can speak for itself. 4. Nonfiction Prose. Any literary form not falling under any of the categories just mentioned is classified as nonfiction prose. This group consists of a wide array of fact-based and fact-oriented written materials presenting judgments and opinions and which are created mainly as sources of information. News reports, feature articles, essays, editorials, textbooks, and biographical and historical works fall under this category. Recently, there has been a marked increase in the interest for biographical and historical works, a good number of which have become bestsellers. Many schools have shifted to biographical and historical novels for required student readings. REVIEW QUESTIONS 1. The statements that follow are supported by the foregoing discussions except one. Find that sentence. l. Literature is a potent vehicle to convey a personal longing. m. The most extreme of human experiences are the only ones considered as worthy literary materials. n. Man’s freedom of self-expression can be best exemplified by the almost limitless breadth of possibilities in literature. o. Reading a literary text is experiencing the writer’s unspoken regret or praise. 2. Find the sentence which is not supported by the foregoing discussions. a. Defining literature is not always necessary. b. Imaginative literature can be a rich source of lessons about living life. c. A well written literary text can cause a change in a person’s disposition. d. Written literature has always been the better tradition. 3. Which of the following statements best paraphrases the opening quote? a. Literature is the source of Helen Keller’s highest point of contentment. b. Keller and her friends read literature a lot and find much meaning from it. c. Being blind and deaf, Keller finds literature reading as the best pastime. d. Keller’s friends love to hear her share with them what she has read and what she thinks about them. 4. Imaginative literature differs from other literary forms in the following ways except one. e.Imaginative literature builds on a writer’s personal experience and shares it factually with the reader. f. Mundane and extraordinary human experiences are vividly recreated and accented with some of the writer’s imaginative thoughts. g. Imaginative literature is everything that transports the reader to a different world, stimulates his creative mind, and appeals to his sense of values. h. Man’s most profound thoughts and feelings are expressed in symbols and images. 5. Which three (3) statements are not supported by the discussions on the value of literature? i. Every literary text has its own place in the arena of values.j. Longer texts, such as the novel and the drama, have a more profound reader-impact than shorter ones, such as proverbs and haikus. k. One of the added values of literature is that it requires interpretation and analysis of meaning. l. Literature has to be historical for it to be prized. m. A song expressing a prisoner’s longing for immediate freedom is an ethnicity-inspired literary piece. 6. C. S. Lewis is quoted to have said: â€Å"Literature enriches the necessary competencies that daily life requires and provides; and in this respect, it irrigates the desert that our lives have already become. † This quote supports the idea that: n. Basically, literature is based on world knowledge. o. Literature brings entertainment to its audience. p. Available in every literary text are several insights about meaningful living. q. Literature enables the reader to grasp the meaning of his experiences and those of the people around him. 7. Which of the following statements is not true about poetry? r. It dates back to the earliest years of man’s literary experience. s. It is strictly metered, rhymed, and rhythmical. t. It can capture the most profound and the most ordinary human experience in a few words. u. The poet’s message is cloaked in rich symbols and other forms of evocative expressions. 8. Although sometimes classified as poetry, romance is proprietarily a type of narrative fiction _____: v. owing to its length. w. because it is basically intended to give an account of past incidents in story format. x. since it is situated at a definite past time and space. y. because it is about adventure. 9. The following is an English translation of a Bilaan poem attributed to pre-colonial times. [Bilaan is a tribal group of southern Mindanao, which is the second biggest island in the Philippines and is situated in the southernmost part of the archipelago. The early people were renowned hunters and food gatherers (blog. travelpod. com/travel-blog-entries/aliawan/1/1262268183/tpod. html)]. The language of the people is also called Bilaan. ) Read the poem carefully to be able to answer the question below. LAMGE What can we do? Oh, what can we do? This is our work, this we should do. Oh my, how, oh how is this to go on? Continue, then come back when you reach the top. â€Å"’Tis not there! ‘Tis not here! † they said. We’ll try till we can make it. It’s not here, according to them, but don’t relax Don’t be surprised. They’re still far. Let’s hurry! (Lumbera & Lumbera 11) What sub-type of poetry is Lamge? a. a poem on everyday activities. b. occasional poem. c. pastoral d. meditation 10. Which of the following work values were prized by the early Bilaans as evidenced by the poem LAMGE? z. creativity and leisure {. individual recognition and prestige |. collaboration and achievement }. autonomy and compensation 11. Study the following excerpts then identify that which is not taken from imaginative literature. ~. â€Å"EDSA’ (the name of the highway in Metro Manila that runs north to south from Caloocan to Baclaran) has become the popular designation of the revolt which began as a military mutiny on February 21 [1986] and developed into a popular uprising in Manila that culminated in the flight of the dictator and his family to Hawaii, U. S. A. on February 24, 1986. The revolt established the presidency of Corazon Aquino which was marked by the â€Å"restoration† of pre-Martial Law society† (Lumbera & Lumbera 364). . â€Å"It was raining the morning of the execution. I remember how brackish and crimson was the sky. God has sliced open the sun, spilling its innards, carving out its heart. That sun had never seemed the same to me ever since. The cold air scraped the insides of my lungs and chilled my nape. It was the first dawn I had awakened to. The first time to witness the pained violent birthing of light† (Lumbera & Lumbera 377). . â€Å"And so we talk/ our words trying to capture/pain caroming/like the balls of ivory/ Our voices rise/and fall/ as we sit in a circle/ racing our other lives/ the beginnings/ of love/ rich and red/ as the felt on the board† (Lumbera & Lumbera 422).   Ã¢â‚¬Å"Matumal ang pasada nang buong umagang iyon at naipasiya kong igarahe muna sa bahay and minamanehong taksi kesa magsayang ng gasolina. Pababa na ako nang sa paglingon ko’y nasulyapan ko ang clutch bag na iyon sa may paanan ng likurang-upuan. Kinabahan ako at patawarin ako ng mga anak kong gusto kong lumaking matitino, lumabo sabi nga ang tingin ko sa tama’t mali, sa masama’t mabuti. Paano kung limpak-limpak na pera ang laman ng clutch bag? Kung bara-barang ginto o alahas kaya? Isosoli ko pa ba? Managot kaya ako kung saka-sakali? † (Lumbera & Lumbera 422). (The trips were far between the whole morning and I decided to  temporarily drive home the cab rather than [keep going through the streets and] waste gas. I was about to get down when in a glance I noticed that clutch bag at the foot of the backseat. I began to feel restless and my children whom I wanted to grow responsible [may they] forgive me, my sense of right and wrong, good and bad, blurred. What if the clutch bag contained stacks of money? What if it had bars of gold, or jewelry? Will I return it? Will I answer for my action just in case? ) 12. Choose the excerpt that is taken from imaginative literature. . â€Å"Home making is really border making: it is about deciding who is in as well as who is out. I began this project on Filipino Americans in San Diego at the border—the U. S. -Mexico border. Since the mid-1970s, the militarization of the U. S. -Mexico border region has intensified. From San Diego to the Rio Grande Valley, armed U. S. federal agents patrol key border points to block ‘illegal’ crossers—to keep ‘them’ from invading ‘our’ homes. Since 1994, ‘Operation Gatekeeper,’ a high-profile blockade-style operation, has turned the San Diego-Tijuana border region into a war zone, pushing immigrants to attempt more treacherous crossings in the forbidding mountains and deserts east of San Diego† (Espiritu 205-206). â€Å"In the annals of human adversity, there is etched a cancer, of a breed so malignant that the least contact exacerbates it and stirs in it the sharpest of pains. And thus, many times amidst modern cultures I have wanted to evoke you, sometimes for memories of you to keep me company, other times, to compare you with other nations—many times your beloved image appears to me afflicted with a social cancer of similar malignancy† (Rizal, Dedication of Noli Me Tangere).