Organizational Change and Development

In the past, people have been treated the organization as a closed system, that is to say, organizational behavior and performance are the results from unilateral decision by managers, ignoring the existence of the environment. However, as an open system, the organization and its external environment are interaction and mutual penetration. Environment should be seen as the organizational material, energy, the ultimate resource of information and the key to organization renewal. This paper will discuss the contribution of environmental determinist theories by interpreting Institutional Theory, Population Ecology, Resource Dependence Theory and Business Ecosystem Theory. 2. Institutional theory Starting from the sociological system theory, institutional theory focuses on the isomorphism and similar between organizations, and put it down to the requirements of the institutional environment outside the organization. (Tidd, 2001) In institutional theory, the organization faces with two different environments: technical environment and institutional environment. Technological environment requires the organization must be efficient and organized by the principle of maximum production, while the institutional environment requires organizations must be legitimacy. Meyer and Rowen pointed out that many organizations even had to have the internal operations separated from organizational structure in order to reduce the negative impact from the institutional environment requests on the efficient operation. DiMaggio and Powell further put forward three mechanisms lead to convergence of the organizational type and organizational behavior. Camarinha-Matos, & Afsarmanesh, 2007)The first one is forcing mechanisms, such as government regulations and cultural expectations. The second one is imitation mechanism. When faces with uncertainty problem, organizations tend to adopt the solution used by other organizations in the same organizational field. The last one is regulatory mechanisms, which comes from development and complication of professional networ ks in professional training, and organizational field. Sequential studies take a large number of empirical analyses on the mechanism above. Take Galaskiewicz and Wasserman for example, they confirmed the importance of networking to the mechanism of imitation. They noted that, although the successful organization may be easy to become the object of imitation, the organization managers tend to imitate the organization they trust, such as those that have the interpersonal association with their own organization.

Cultural experience Essay

In preparation for this reflection, I began by thinking about what cultural event I would most like to attend, what would work for the assignment and what would also benefit me in my personal life by actually forcing me out of my comfort zone to experience things I never have before. Because Christianity is such a huge part of my life I immediately thought I would want to do something based on another religion since I’ve never really gone out of my religious comfort zone, but for this assignment I chose to go to a gay bar. The reason I chose to do this was because I have been raised as a Christian, I grew up in a very conservative town and while I support gay rights being around gay people is still something that is foreign and a little bit uncomfortable for me. My roommate also chose to use going to the gay bar for an assignment for her human sexuality class, so while knowing that I would have my roommate going with me made me a little bit more comfortable I still knew that t his would be something that pushed me way out of my comfort zone. We both live in Elkhart, Indiana so while we were home for spring break a gay friend of my roommates offered to take us to a club called â€Å"Metro† which is an 18 plus gay bar located in Kalamazoo, Michigan which is about 45 minutes away. Before going to the gay bar I was so nervous. As mentioned before, while I support gay rights I have not necessarily ever been exposed to them and I wasn’t sure at all what to expect. The bar that we went too isn’t strictly a gay bar so there would most likely be other straight people there but I had no idea how exactly to prepare myself for the situation. Because we were going with my roommate’s friend, who is gay, I knew I would feel a little more comfortable since we weren’t just walking in completely unprepared. I was worried what people would think of me when I went, if they would assume that I was gay. I didn’t know if it was normal for gay’s to take straight  friends with them, I was worried about how people would judge me. As I began to get ready for the night I wasn’t really too worried about what to wear, I just wore something that I would normally wear to go out but mentally I was less prepared than ever. I had no idea how I was supposed to act, what if it was awkward once I got there. Before we went my roommate and I met up with her gay friend and several of his friends. His friend group contained a mix of both gay and straight men and women who would be going to the bar with us so I immediately felt more comfortable, knowing that I wouldn’t be the only straight one other than my roommate. I expected the ride there to be awkward, considering I didn’t know anyone other than my roommate and she didn’t know anyone other than the one guy and me, but instead they were all so friendly and told us not to be nervous. Because we were going on a Saturday night they explained to us that there would probably be more gay’s there than the other nights of the week/weekend but that didn’t mean they would assume we were gay, and people were usually pretty good about asking before they hit on you. After the 45 minute drive there we finally arrived and walked in. As we walked in a realized that it wasn’t any different than any other bar would be (not that I’ve been in that many since I’m only 19) full of people, d ancing, music and drinking. The inside of the building was pretty big and there was plenty of room. Almost everybody there was dancing. The people we came with were all over 21 so they all went and got drinks while my roommate and I just hung out. It was a little overwhelming at first. There were definitely a lot of gay people around, dancing together, standing at the bar flirting, and just hanging out with groups of people. Eventually we started to loosen up a little bit, while I didn’t really talk and get to know a lot of gay people I was complimented by a lot of them. During our time there we pretty much just hung out and danced in the group that we came with. A few of the people that we came with went off and danced with other people, but because I still felt a little uncomfortable and awkward we didn’t really venture to far apart from our group and go dance with anyone else or anything. I think it would have a been a very different experience if we had gone when w e were 21 and could drink at the bar, I think it would have changed the experience a little bit. We arrived at the bar at a little bit after 10 which is when the dance floor opened and stayed until around 1 in the morning. Examine The part of this experience that was the most compelling to me was almost the sense of community that I felt was just there between the gay community. Like there were a lot of groups of people there that night that didn’t even know each other, but you would never guess that by the way they acted like they had been friends for years. Even towards me and my roommate who they didn’t know, was just some straight stranger walking in and â€Å"observing† them they were so nice and accepting. They were willing to let us into their environment, knowing that we were not a part of it and I felt no judgment or anything. My fears that I had felt earlier in the day before going were put to rest, while some people were unusually friendly to me no girls really tried to hit on me, which was really relieving. As mentioned above, the most shocking thing I noticed was the community, or the way they socialized with and accepted themselves and each other. I think that at the roots of everything its amazing how well they have a grasp on who they are, and who they want others to see them. Because being gay is looked down upon in many parts of our society that makes them part of an oppressed group. Not only are gay’s an oppressed group but I also saw varying degrees of sexism. Because the gay community also includes transgender people as well. This forced me to think past my original understanding of gender. On page 318 of the book it talks about how gender is a social construct, meaning that gender is something that society defines which was really different when you read about it and see it in person. In person seeing someone who doesn’t associate with the â€Å"gender† they are born with is something that you don’t really understand until you experience it in person. Articulate Learning By attending this event I learned a lot more about the gay community than I could ever learn from a textbook. They really are a very close knit community. Their community is a lot different than what we observe in our day to day life. In normal everyday life when we see members of the gay community on the street they are treated differently, they are looked out as outcasts and they are oppressed but seeing them in this environment gave me an entirely differently outlook on them and made me respect them a lot more. The reason this matters is because I am certain that there are other people just like me who feel uncomfortable, uneasy and unsure around people that they haven’t really been around before. Because of the way I was raised I was taught to believe being gay was wrong, so I was never really around them very often so I was unexposed and uneducated about them entirely. I think it was really good for me to experience this because it made me realize that they really aren’t that different than everyone else. The most important thing I took away from this experience was that contrary to what I personally have been taught to believe, what society has forced us to think they are not horrible awful people. They are people just like me who have been oppressed and faced many challenges to get to where they’re at now and they still don’t receive the respect and benefits that they deserve in our country. I took away that it is important for me to for that very reason it is important for me to form my own beliefs and not just go off of what everyone around me has told me. References Adams, M. (2007). Introduction. In Adams M., Blumenfeld W.J., Castaà ±eda C.R., Hackman H.W., Peters M.L., & Zà ºÃƒ ±iga X., Readings for Diversity and Social Justice. New York: Routledge.

Identification of Possible Pathogens in an Office Environment Research Paper

Identification of Possible Pathogens in an Office Environment - Research Paper Example Is there a relationship between working efficiency and pathogenic presence in offices? The disease-causing pathogens lead to various illnesses that may lower the efficiency of personnel in the offices. Due to the reduction in efficiency, the research herein is of a great essentiality. We obtained the isolate by taking a sample of the used Petri plate with Nutrient agar (Ravichandra 37).Thereafter, exposing it to the air in a small office for approximately 1 hour. The Petri plate helped in the collection of a variety of microorganisms. The microorganisms were from surfaces, strictly chairs, desktops and computer mice. The primary purpose of the methodology was to help in identifying a single unknown culture of bacteria to prove whether it is pathogenic or not. The organism I identified via PCR is Dermacoccus nishinomiyaeusis and is non-pathogenic generally regarded as harmless saprophytes (Rose, Joan and Erin 14). It inhabits and contaminates the skin, mucosa, and the pharynx. A Gram-positive coccus locates in tetrads, irregular clusters and cubical agglomerates of eight. It is enzymatic positive and exhibits strictly aerobic metabolic. However, they can be opportunistic disease-causing organisms to the immune-compromised beings. They associated with various infections, including bacteremia, continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis peritonitis, and infections related to ventricular shunts. They occur worldwide and are ubiquitous. They locate on the human skin, marine and fresh water, plants, dust, and air. Rocasermeno, Pablo. "Pressurizing with dust collectors: guidelines on how to apply a concept that is appropriate for mine and plant environments, where dust generated during crushing, screening and conveying must be controlled to protect workers, office spaces and sensitive equipment." E&MJ - Engineering & Mining Journal 2013: 92. General OneFile. Web. 11 Dec.

Environmental Economics Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Environmental Economics - Essay Example It is the study of environmental policies and to see how well the businesses abide by these when striving for profits. The major and common costs that these companies levy are air pollution, noise pollution, toxic and solid waste in water harming the water quality and global warming. Since about a decade, these environmental hazards have kept increasing extremely rapidly and rampantly. Thus, there is a now a sense of urgency to get rid of these problems completely. However, this has become very difficult; millions of policies have been formulated by the government and various organizations, but is they still do not produce the desirable results. One another major issue that has been faced since many years is the 'carbon emission'. Coal is one of the biggest energy resource currently used; it accounts for 50% of the electricity produced in the United States. Today, fossil fuels are a source of 80% of the world's energy needs; coal accounts for 25%, natural gas 21%, petroleum oil 34%, nuclear 6.5%, hydro power 2.2%, and biomass and waste 11%. The resources that are environmental friendly such as geothermal, solar and wind are responsible for only a measly 0.4% of the overall demand in the world. The US alone produces 1.5 billion tons of carbon dioxide from coal-burning power plants. Also, it produces great amounts of nitrogen oxides, sulphur oxides, mercury emissions and other combustible gases when coal is burned. This makes it very clear how harmful the usage of coal is for our environment. The Massachusetts Institute of Technology conducted a study and made a report called 'The Future Coal' in which they examined all developing countries that try to alleviate global warming and their usage of coal. This report discusses the hazards of global warming and how countries should restrict the emission of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases. It also focuses on how coal remains and important and indispensable part of every country's production, how there is a need to control the carbon emissions and then how these countries need to take care of emissions yet make use of coal to meet urgent and large energy needs. However, at the same time, this reports deals with future technologies that can be used in place of coal to meet the goal of reduced coal emissions. The main reason why businesses and producers go for coal is that it is inexpensive and abundant. Coal can be used at only a cheap cost of $1 - $2 for each MMBtu compared to $6- $12 for gas and oil (The Future Coal, 2007). Also, coal mines are evenly distributed and spread and can be found everywhere, for example United States, China, India etc; except for only a few regions such as Persian Gulf, where instead are huge oil and gas reserves. The non-carbon emitting resources, mainly nuclear and renewable, are not available everywhere; thus, these areas still rely on coal despite all the policies and awareness of carbon hazards. The positive point of following this report is that it does not advocate certain policies that improve the environment; it diverts all its findings towards the technologies that can be used if these policies are actually followed by people. It is only natural to ask for an alternative if a certain act is prohibited; and that is exactly what The Future Coal is focusing on. This study focuses on technologies that

Wiccan Religion Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Wiccan Religion - Research Paper Example Some of the Basic Tenets/Principles of the Wiccan Religion Are;1. The Wiccan holidays are based on the phases of the moon and earth’s rotation. Apart from the monthly esbats, there are eight primary sabbats in the Wiccan religion.2. The environment should be taken care of and honored. As such, it is the Wiccan follower’s personal responsibility to conserve the environment and promote ecological balance since the environment is divine.3. The divine power in the Wiccan religion contains both the male and female aspects. Hence, both genders are held to be equal. Therefore, the Wiccans honor or worship both the male god and the female goddess.  4. The Wiccan religion has no central authority figure. They believe that all people/ members are sacred and can communicate with the gods. In other religions, only the priests or pastors are honored to communicate with the gods.5. Each and every person must take responsibility for his/her actions. Hence, they should readily accept the outcomes of their actions.Beliefs Concerning Life and DeathAccording to the Wicca religion, material life begins in the womb. Next, they believe that in life, they should strive to live peacefully by not intentionally causing any harm to others. What a person does in his/her life will be repaid thrice in the afterlife. This implies that they believe in karma. The Wicca religion believes that there is an afterlife after death. When a person dies, he /she transitions into a different life where he/she will be reincarnated back in different forms.

Globalization and the Capitalist State Redundant Essay

Globalization and the Capitalist State Redundant - Essay Example In view of the Marxist globalization has been seen as an expansion or development of capitalism in the world. Like other traditional works that were seen to fit in a loose framework of anti-globalization, Marxism may not be described as a single movement nor can it be described as following a unitary intellectual practice from a theoretical perspective. In this case we should understand that Marxism as whole has been engaging with contemporary phenomena in a way that the manner and the mindsets that it has been postulating in the past has been evidence in class, political economy, labor, capitalism and in many other socialism concepts and revolution described as the central axis of globalization. (Ollman 1998, p.87) Â  With the end of communism in Eastern Europe in the 1990s, and the consequent embrace of the capitalism like in the Peoples Republic of China has been expressed as the end of the Marxism’s period. Regardless of the fact that the world has embraced the capitalist economies, Marxism still present a poignant and painful way of accounting for globalization. This has been witnessed in what is happening in the aftermath of the wave that took the world from the 1990s. Marxism has been expressed in many areas like the free-markets, oppressed and exploited labor, modernization, and many other reforms that have been carried out in the political, social and economic systems of the world. Â  Globalization has been described as the increased interaction of the world or the opening up the world. In the last few decades, there has been increased movement of people and goods. There has been the emergence of the new market. Therefore globalization has been a tendency to create a unipolar world though it has been expressed mostly in economic terms.

Human Nutrition Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Human Nutrition - Essay Example bility, accuracy, flexibility, and data entry speed and user preference, providing more reliable data analysis while committing less mistakes (Ice, 2004; Morris, 1994; Long, 2001; Kari, Ruokonen & Takala, 1990). Calculations are fast; process is rapid and shows printed-out results immediately (Probst et al, 2005; Danford, 1987; Smith & Lloyd-Still, 1983; Long, 2001), as computerized analysis is able to reduce coding time and total processing time (Sheppard et al, 1990). Reduced intrinsic errors due to manual calculation. It provides freedom from errors that result into arithmetic drudgery (Shea et al, 1998; Danford, 1987; Bassham, Fletcher & Stanton, 1984; Kari, Ruokonen and Takala, 1999). Error reduction can be as much as 39% (Sheppard et al, 1990). Dietary guidance in manual computation is frequently difficult to comprehend for those who are not nutrition professionals (Adelman et al, 1983). Computer literacy and typing skills, and knowledge on how computer programs work are no longer necessary. Dietary analysis software might be generally easy to use than manual method (Probst et al, 2005; Danford, 1987; Smith and Lloyd-Still, 1983) but still varies from program to program (McCullough et al, 1999). Requires the user to be computer-literate and have sufficient typing skills (Probst et al, 2005) since most dieticians lack awareness on the applicability of information technology to nutrition-related work (Bassham, Fletcher & Stanton, 1984). Technical aspects of the program vary with each other (McCullough et al, 1999). Like other software, dietary analysis programs are vulnerable to computer hacks and viruses, plus the unavailability to use the software due to power failures or shortages. Inadequate computer literacy serves as a barrier for nutrition professionals to adapt the technology. Should dietitians became aware and able to adapt technological advances in dietary analysis, the advantages and disadvantages can be weighed without the influence of

Health Promotion in Nursing Care Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Health Promotion in Nursing Care - Essay Example It should enhance commitment among individuals, communities and families by giving them literacy in health and promoting healthy lifestyle behaviors. To attain this, it helps to decrease the financial burden on patients by cutting the cost of health care by increasing the role played by the government in carrying the financial burden (Bomar, 2004). Nurses are known to work in close collaboration with the community therefore serve the role healers, educators, advocates and researchers in the levels of promotion and promotion. Purpose of Health Promotion in Nursing Practice The nursing practice plays a key role in health promotion, as nurses are guide individuals, communities, families and organizations in making sound decisions concerning health (Pender, Murdaugh and Parsons, 2011). The nursing practice is involved is various aspects of health promotion including illness prevention, patient education, consultation, follow up treatment and other clinical nursing practices. Health promo tion results to positive changes in the nursing practice including improved adherence to the code of practice governing the profession, improved quality service delivery and increased health outcomes. Health promotion introduces the approach of community-based practice there nurses’ roles and responsibilities are focused towards improving the health status in their respective communities through education and prevention of diseases (Linsley, Kane and Owen, 2011). Moreover, nurses working with respect to the health promotion model take every contact with a patient to be a learning intervention. For instance, while dressing the wound of a diabetic patient, the nurse takes this opportunity to discuss on how to manage the disease. Concisely, nurses in health organizations should appreciate the value of health promotion and adequately serve in their respective duties as caregivers and educators. Evolution of Nursing Roles and Responsibilities in Health Promotion Nurses’ rol es and responsibilities have evolved greatly over the past decades. Traditionally, the main aims of health promotion by nurses were transforming individuals’ behavior concerning their health and disease prevention (Pender, Murdaugh and Parsons, 2011). However, nursing roles and responsibilities have changed since they have increased experience and knowledge of health promotion. In the modern times, the nurses’ roles and responsibilities are not limited to what they learnt during their study. They need to work hard to ensure their role in health promotion is acknowledged (Lundy and Janes, 2009). The new nursing roles and duties are holistic and this requires nurses to be multidisciplinary. In other words, they need to acquire relevant knowledge and skills in areas of emergency care, counseling, behavioral science, health promotion, illness assessment; community needs assessment and family intervention. Nurses are seen as advocates of change in the health sector therefor e need to be aware of changes and trends in society and how they could impact on the health of society. Finally, nurses are requires to have high academic credentials as some positions require a minimum of a BSN. Implementation Methods for Health Promotion The

Alexander of Macedon Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Alexander of Macedon - Research Paper Example Alexander as commander ensured excellent use of psychological war and propaganda, as it created a sense of revenge appealing to the Greeks. Despite the sources Alexander did win the battle which led him to continue his invasion of Persia. As for his troops, Alexander visited the wounded and received great respect from his men. Plutarch wrote of the capture of Darius’s family, and on much more on Alexander’s campaign. The action performed showed Alexander’s respect and nobility as a commander ignoring the reality that Darius was his enemy. Continuing on, he defeated Bessus, then moved on to India, and fought King Porus at the Hydaspes River in which once again was another victory. The truth that Alexander overpowered Darius, Bessus and King Porus in their own kingdoms reveals Alexander’s brilliance as an outstanding commander. [1] His mentality as commander was flexible and the concern he showed to his army led to few casualties in battles. When men died, A lexander showed compassion and honored the dead, and this led to Alexander having the great respect from his men. ... ccording to Bosworth â€Å"He loved them and they loved him as their king and as a man, and they could not bear to let him die without greeting him.† [2] This statement can assist in proving the ‘love’ aspect of his relationship as king with his men, and one must see this side of Alexander’s Kingship. In the determining of the rift at the Hydaspes River, after shedding tears and after listening to his men moaning outside his tent, Alexander assured them in these words which definitely consoled them then and there â€Å"but all of you regard as my kinsmen†. [3] In addition to this compassion, Alexander paid off his men’s debts off which totaled to 20,000 talents, a kind deed, and in the thirteen years of Alexander’s rule, he brought Macedon â€Å"immense wealth which maintained their strength for generations†. [4] The affiliation of Alexander as King towards his Macedones is wide-ranging. It is obvious that Alexander was an obsess ed king whose sufferings and implementations to Persian traditions created enormous annoyance and aggravation between his men towards him. There are more unconstructive perspectives in regard to Alexander’s successes as king, but in certain circumstances, we see the positives and affection Alexander and his men had for each other. As statesman, Alexander established his kingdom by using his skills as statesman. One of his first and most significant achievements as statesman was gaining the submission of Greece after the death of his father Philip. According to Hammond, when Alexander died he had 25 satrapies, which were ran by hundreds of influential senior officials from Asia and Europe. Of the Satrapies, most of the satraps (governor of satrapy) were Persian. Alexander kept these men in these powerful positions because they had the

Injuries in hockey Essay Example for Free

Injuries in hockey Essay In hockey you need both general fitness and specific fitness. You need good strength, stamina, speed, agility, balance, co-ordination, fast reactions and many more. All these can help every individual become better at their sport and have better health. These fitness needs can also prevent many injuries as you are less agile to your sport. Fitness levels can also be affected by many things such as illness, weight, alcohol and drugs, dieting and psychological factors. You should always warm up before physical workout and cool down afterwards. There are many factors that can cause injury but also many ways to prevent them. Injuries are both internally caused and externally caused. Internal injuries are self caused where you over use the muscles and external injuries are caused equipment, environmental conditions or opponents. Injuries can occur due to the weather (environment), being overweight causing heart problems, breathing problems, joint and foot problems etc, physical ability, the wrong equipment and facilities. These can be prevented by setting realistic targets, pre participation screening, carrying out fitness programmes in pre season, using appropriate equipment, do not over train or train while hurt. Enforcing rules helps prevention of dangerous use of sticks and careless play of the ball. Also seek medical attention sooner rather than later and get adequate nutrition. Injured people should not be moved unless they them self say that it is ok. If more attention is paid to extrinsic and intrinsic risk factors, injuries can be a lot less frequent. The same injuries can occur in many different sports in different situations but there can be more common injuries in each individual sport such as legs in football, shoulder or arm in javelin and hands or ankles in netball etc. Environmental injuries are things such as frostbite, hypothermia, exhaustion and heat stroke. Injuries can also occur due to physiological reasons making the person become fatigue, have muscle soreness and depletion of energy reserves. Before carrying out a session in the individual sport, a risk assessment should be preformed as there are others risk factors that should be identified such as slippery surfaces, equipment left out, food or drink that may be tipped in the training area. You can outline whether or not the area is suitable for that sport or the right age group and if not, how the safety issues could be improved. You also have to take into consideration the age of the sportsperson as already mentioned. In hockey, it is important that the right equipment and footwear is worn to prevent injuries and to have a pre game warm up and stretching. Overall, a hockey team needs to wear gum shields to protect their mouth and teeth from hockey balls and sticks, shin guards to protect their legs from sticks also, body protection such genital protectors, gloves to protect hand and knuckles from sticks, Astroturf trainers to get better grip when running and a goalie needs a goalie kit which includes a hard hat, body protectors like abdominal protectors, knee pads, shoulder and elbow pads, chest pad, throat protector, padded shorts and thigh protectors, kickers etc to protect them from flying balls etc. All this equipment should be regularly checked including hockey sticks to ensure they do not put any other player in danger while they are in use. Most injuries in hockey are mainly down to being struck by a hockey stick or hockey balls. Injuries in hockey can be very serious and as it is played in over 132 countries, injuries are very common. Overuse injuries to the ankles and lower back are very common in hockey and can be treated mainly by rest. The face is normally injured by the stick or ball, the lower limb includes injuries to the ankles, knees and feet, and upper body injuries such as hands and forearms. These injuries are pretty serious and the player may need to be hospitalised. There are eight physiological effects of ageing which obviously decrease your playing capability and metabolic rate etc. There would also a decrease in number and size of fibre muscles, a decline in the person cardiac output and muscles. In general, injuries have said to affect people of different ages, such as young children aged between six and nine should not train at such a high level and it should be more fun and lots of variation. People aged ten to twelve should include a lot more technique and co-ordination exercises as this is the right age to improve mobility technique and reflexes. As each child gets older and closer to puberty, they then should be playing sport to suit their maturity and ability. From the age fifteen onwards is when children could begin anaerobic training and strength training as this is more often or not when the muscles and skeleton allow an increased load. Injuries in hockey can be very serious and as the sport is played in over 132 countries, injuries are also very common. Some common injuries apply to most sports such as shin splints, sprains, fractures, pulls etc. Hockey is known as a hard-hitting, collision sport. Players risk injury from high-impact collisions with each other. The knee is frequently injured, with sprains to the medial collateral and capsular ligaments being fairly common. Cruciate ligament tears are less common in hockey and seen more in turf sports, such as football. This is a hospitalised injury which may need ice and bandage to reduce swelling and rest after operation. The Acromioclavicular, or AC, joint separation (separated shoulder) is a common injury. This could be caused by various things such as a hard fall, swinging of stick or hard knock by opposing team. This is also a hospitalised injury which needs support and rest. This is also a common injury where the stick of another player may hit the hand or if the player is to have an awkward fall etc. All these injuries need support and in many cases bandaged up. Most injuries include fractures and torn tendons. It has been said that as many as one-third of injuries are caused by foul play. Many have observed a need for increased vigilance in this area, mainly in adolescence and high school. The enforcement of effective rules has lead to fewer injuries. Players have been said to demonstrate a high level of body dissatisfaction and an elevated drive for thinness. These have been associated with risk of osteoporosis which have been linked to an increased risk of stress fractures, especially in the lumbar region of the lower back. If injuries are left or ignored after so long, they can only get worse. If you look below, you can see a bone scan showing a low-intensity lesion abutting the expanded area of the posterior cortex. A CT scan shows what appears to be an osteoid osteoma or Brodies abscess. This is what started off to be just a twisted ankle and not the right treatment. Injuries to the adductors are muscles that run from the inside thigh. These are active while running, twisting and side stepping activities. An injury can occur at any time during these activities or a fall. Pain may begin and aching on the inner thigh. Bruising that appears may track down to the knee at times. The treatment of RICE is rest, ice, compression and elevation. This treatment should be applied immediately. This is reducing more damage by keeping off the injury, applying ice, to compress injury be using bandages etc to reduce swelling and elevate the injured, in order to get blood flowing away from injury to stop internal bleeding and bruising and to speed up recovery. This will assist the resolution of pain and minimise inflammation. Following the RICE solution, you should walk only when really needed. A calf strain is also well known in sport. The two main muscles make up the back of the lower leg (Calf). One is attached above the knee joint. This is the Gastrocnemius and the other one below called the Soleus. These make one thick Achilles tendon that is attached to the back of the heel. Their main action is to raise the heel from the ground, but also assist to bend the knee. They act during walking, running and jumping. The calf can be injured by running and jumping in hockey or when you overload the muscle. Pain may start in the tendon attachment at the back of calf. The RICE treatment could also be applied to this. Players should allow enough time for adequate rehabilitation of injuries, especially full recovery of ankle function, before returning to pre-injury levels of play. There are lots more common injuries in hockey such as Gilmores groin caused by running, coughing, kicking etc, hamstring strains, Osgood-Schlatters Disease, shin splints, cartilage injury, runners knee and many more. There are less serious injuries such as rubbing causing blisters, cramp, concussion, stitch, groin strain etc. These are mainly bandaged up and use of plasters helps and basically rest is needed. shin splint Sprain and strain of the joint and surrounded tissue are one of the most common sports related injuries (sprain involves the ligament and strain involves muscle or tendon). The typical inflammatory response may include swelling of the injured area, redness, skin discoloration, and reduced range of motion of the joint. R.I.C.E treatment, many athletes have found acupuncture treatment to be very useful in suppress inflammation and swelling fast. Muscles injuries can be caused by muscle damage by direct trauma or indirect trauma. These injuries can be divided into ruptures and haematomas. Ruptures can be total or partial and subdivided into distraction and compression ruptures. Haematomas- inter and intramuscular . Major differences between the treatment and prognosis of the two types. Distraction ruptures are caused by over stretching or overloading. Compression rupture is direct impact which is the muscle pressed against underlining bone. Another solution which is often used to treat injuries is SALTAPS. This is known as: Stop- stop game Ask- ask injured person what happened Look- Look at injury Touch- Feel for any differences e.g. uninjured knee and injured knee Active movement- see what sort of range of movement they have Passive movement- move injured area with hand Stop and start again- rest and come back to sport when ready. Cold treatment with use of ice, decreases sensitivity of painful areas and relaxes muscle spasms. The cold slows nerve impulses to the muscle and decreases blood circulation which helps reduce inflammation. There is also the heat treatment. This treatment should not be started until at least 48 hours after the injury occurred. Same applies to massage. Heat therapy relaxes muscles, relieves pain and accelerates healing by increasing blood flow to a targeted area. Application of heat has many forms, from simply taking a hot shower to sophisticated methods such as ultrasound. Heat should not be used immediately after injury but after swelling has gone down. The RICE treatment should be applied to soft tissue injuries during the first 24-48 hours. Injury at its acute stage, the blood vessels expand and blood clotting procedure may be disrupted. Ointments, liniments and medicines are also used along with muscle training of isometric and static muscle work. There are many different methods of treatment that help injuries repair a lot quicker with the right amount of care. They are all fairly successful but have slightly different procedures applied and some work better than others depending on the server ness of the injury. SALTAPS is immediate treatment to an injury, where as RICE treatment could last up to a few weeks. In many cases, RICE treatment will continue through a players career therefore is a more common source of treatment and more well known. Research indicates that nutritional factors, or the lack thereof, can play a significant role in healing and recovery. Three nutrients vitamin C, bioflavonoid and glucosamine sulphate appear to be particularly important. Vitamin C possesses anti- inflammatory properties and can help control the damage that often accompanies tissue injury. Vitamin C is required for collagen fibre synthesis, a process essential for tissue bone repair. Adequate amounts of vitamin C are therefore critical for the stimulation of that process. Each treatment has a different amount of effectiveness on injuries but one or all can often be used through the period of injury in most common sporting injuries. Further ways to reduce and prevent injuries are to apply certain bandaging before play, apply ointments, and reduce length of pitch for younger children. Hockey injury data at all levels should be collected to compare and improve participation. There should be more research and findings on sporting injuries to ensure less likeliness of injury. Coaches should be taught principles of sport-specific conditioning and fitness as part of their training. Other ways to improve sports and prevent injuries is to ensure the right foot wear is worn, equipment is safe and appropriate and that the rules set are followed.

In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) Types and Effects

In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) Types and Effects Statistics shows that one out of six couples experienced the problem corresponding with infertility (Olmedo, Chilik and Kopelman, 173). Infertility can be considered a disease affecting more than 80 million people around the world consisting primarily of young population accounting to around 10-15% having problems on the ability to conceive and give live births (Hochschild, Schwarze and Alam, 2008). Considering these figures, infertility becomes one of the centers of attraction especially that many couples are becoming desperate to have a child. They would just take any chances in order to have a child after for so long time having sexual intercourse but then without contraception that takes place. There are many advanced ways nowadays in order to treat infertility or even defy its capacity for couples not to experience contraception. Embryo transfer is one. Then one of the most popular is in vitro fertilization which is a technique used by 53 countries around the world today, implying that the treatment is no longer experimental but safe to use (Ezra and Schenker, 127). Causes of Infertility The continuing many studies about infertility are clear indications that the discovery on what is really is it is still on the process of creating series of scientific investigations. One of these scientific investigations is in line with knowing the probable causes of infertility. It was hypothesized that it could be due to four factors such as delayed childbearing, problem on semen quality because of bad habits such as cigarette smoking and abusive alcohol intake, changes in sexual behavior and elimination of most taboos (Olmedo, Chilik and Kopelman, 173). It is because of these considered factors that studies on infertile couples are focused on ovulatory factor which is present to 20% of couples, utero-tubal peritoneal factor which is present to 30% of couples, then 40% of couples have together the two previous factors and 15% of couples can be diagnosed because of no alterations (Olmedo, Chilik and Kopelman, 173). Statistics on IVF Statistics shows the following figures regarding in vitro fertilization (Ezra and Schenker, 127). Since it started in 1985 to be used as infertility treatment, over 53,635 women were already treated which corresponds to around 34,316 babies born by 224,473 treatment cycles then next after it were 160,518 transfer cycles. With the resulting pregnancies, around 65% to 75% were able to come up with live births then the rest went to spontaneous abortions of around 26% and ectopic pregnancies of around 5.54%. The higher rates of preterm deliveries and perinatal mortality have been expounded by around 22% of multiple pregnancy rate which was higher than the normal population. It remained to around 2.25% of chromosomal aberrations and malformations as documented within the years and success rate for in vitro fertilization did not improve within the covered period during the survey. It was noted that the procedures were becoming much more reliable due to the scope of procedures included whic h became at some point, final steps in the diagnosis. Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) Assisted reproductive technology (ART) is part of the changes in infertility practice. It provided a right chance to study basic reproductive processes (Olmedo, Chilik and Kopelman, 173). The reason is that ART is an artificial means used in order to achieve pregnancy. In 2000, the United States reported 13.5% increase in reported cycles compared to the data presented in 1999 and overall success rate of 0.6% which represents 2.2% increase as compared to the result in 1999 (Society for Assisted Reproductive Technology, American Society for Reproductive Medicine, 1207). In 2006, Canada reported that with ART, clinical pregnancy and live birth rates continued to increase compared with the previous years, but only small rate decrease for multiple births (Gunby et al., 2189). Indicators for IVF (in vitro fertilization) Continuing studies about in vitro fertilization lead to significant findings of significant predictors for its success rate. Considering that sperm morphology is correlated with fertilization failure, then the sperm chromatin packaging was found to be significant indicator of in-vitro fertilization rates. The study of Esterhuizen et al. (657) found that sperm chromatin packaging was significantly correlated with in-vitro fertilization rates. Takahashi et al. (586) found that oocytes have great chance to be fertilized when follicles can make high concentrations of AMH in the follicular fluid. It is in this result that AMH was found to be a significant predictor for fertilization. It was found out that follicular volume can be the new indicator of oocyte maturity. The study of Fuentes et al. (616) found that SonoAVC when it comes to evaluation of stimulated ovaries can be reliable allowing further to establish new criteria for timing hCG administration on follicular volume estimation instead of the follicular size. From the result of the study of Sifer et al. (150), they found that glanula cells of humans and its resistance to apoptosis has the possibility to be associated in the success rate of IVF. There was an association between the declining of age of implanted embryo with the embryoà ¢Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ã‚ ¬Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¾Ã‚ ¢s impaired growth rates (Hsu et al., 679). Based on the recent findings and investigations conducted about in vitro fertilization, the above results are just one of those showing significant indicators for the success rate of in vitro fertilization. The list goes on and on. So there are remarkable and significant indicators that can possibly be associated with IVF. Steps in the IVF Treatment Just prior to the actual IVF treatment, there are preliminary steps that need to be undergone by a patient who wants to undergo the procedure. The following are the least steps a patient who wants to undergo with IVF can possibly undergo (Falcone and Young, 93). Select infertility specialist Both partners who are involved in the treatment needs to undergo series of medical tests. Medical steps that need to be taken to address infertility needs to be considered Agreement with the infertility specialist about the chance a patient can have with IVF. IVF Techniques: The following are common IVF techniques that are commonly used to treat infertility among couples who are willing to take chances. Intra-cytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI) In Intra-cytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI) sperm is mechanically injected into the cytoplasm of an oocyte. This technique was applied initially in sea urchin, followed in mouse and hamster and was successful to humans in 1992 (Peas and Lois, 23). GIFT: Gametic Intra-fallopian Transfer As the name implies, Gametic Intra-follopian Transfer (GIFT) is the direct transfer of human gametes, sperm and oocytes in the fallopian tube which was first successful in 1984 (Serhal and Overton, 256). The good thing about GIFT is that it mimics the natural process in which the gamete is restored in the fallopian tube. Z.I.F.T. Zygote Intrafallopian Transfer Zygote intrafallopian transfer is an advanced form of gametic intrafallopian transfer. By using the gametic intra-fallopian transfer, the oocytes are harvested by transvaginal aspiration, fertilized in vitro and transfer in the fallopian tube (Schmidt and Kurjak, 85). Patients with tubal pathology cannot use zygote intrafallopian transfer as well as gametic intra-fallopian transfer (Schmidt and Kurjak, 85). T.E.T (Tubal Embryo Transfer) Tubal embryo transfer is the development of simple embryo transfer over the years. Tubal embryo transfer is part of the stage of embryogenesis transfer encompassed by zygote intrafallopina transfer in general (Allahbadia and Das, 182). P.R.O.S.T (Pronuclear Stage Transfer Just like the tubal embryo transfer, as a modification of embryo transfer, the pronuclear stage transfer is also part of the stage of embryogenesis transfer encompassed by zygote intrafallopian transfer in general (Allahbadia and Das, 182). Direct Intraperitoneal Insemination D.I.P.I In direct intraperitoneal insemination, the syringe with prepared sperm is punctured into the vaginal pouch leading to good consistency of result especially if after ovarian stimulation (Nieschlag, Behre and Nieschlag, 473). Peritoneal Occyte Sperm Transter P.O.S.T Peritoneal Occyte Sperm Transfer can be applied to women with bilateral tubal block. This procedure is an alternative to IVF. This procedure was described by Coulam et al in 1989 (Rao, 391). Direct Oocyte Sperm Transfer) D.O.S.T Another alternative to IVF is direct oocyte and sperm transfer. This can also be applied to women with bilateral tubal block. This procedure was first introduced by Craft et al. in 1982 and later in modified by Bucktt and Tan by simply having oocytes with sperm directly transferred to the uterine cavity (Rao, 392). Incubation of oocytes is done in this procedure and then followed by the actual insemination in the uterine cavity. Transuterine Fallopian Transfer) T.U.F.T Transuterine fallopian transfer is the actual placement of an embryo into the fallopian tube after IVF has been done. The procedure involves threading the tube through the uterus and placing the embryo into the fallopian tube (Blickstein and Keith, 47) Developing Embryos Embryos are formed specially because there was fertilization that took place. The fertilized egg will slowly develop into en embryo undergoing different stages. It took only 12 days in the uterus for the implantation of newly formed embryo, then it will start the development of organs within 50 days. In other words, the standard definition of embryo period is two months after fertilization (Ostnor, 3). Transferring Embryos Embryo transfer is as good as finding its failure and success. In particular, there is a great area of interest in knowing what makes embryo transfer a success or a failure. Various studies have been developed in order to find out the factors to optimize the success of embryo transfer. The study of Schoolcraft, Surrey and Gardner (863) suggested that avoidance of blood, mucus, bacterial contamination, excessive uterine contraction and trauma to the endometrium is having relationship with optimal pregnancy implantation rates after embryo transfer. More so, they also found out that unltrasonographic guidance and utilization of soft catheters will provide good chance of successful embryo transfer. Therefore, it is implied that it is important to look for factors that can be associated with embryo transfer especially on embryo implantation in maximizing IVF. The common method used in embryo transfer is transcervical intrauterine transfer. As mentioned earlier, the factors affecting its success are of great importance such as technical ability and training of personnel, catheter choice, value of a previous dummy transfer and any other factors to prevent damage of the uterine lining, bleeding and uterine contractions (Pasqualini and Quintans, 83). According to the study of Pasqualini and Quintans, the mentioned factors have negative effects on the pregnancy rates. In fact, the actual concern in embryo transfer is as much as possible eliminate or if not minimize multiple pregnancies and any unwanted side effects. Single embryo transfer and culture in the blastocyst stages are means commonly used to prevent multiple pregnancies. Techniques such as ultrasound-controlled transcervical intrauterine transfer and ultrasound-controlled transmyometrial transfer are of great interest since these are often used in order to properly and successfully i mplement embryo transfer. However there are also more invasive procedures that need to be taken consideration in embryo transfer such as the following: gamete intra-Fallopian transfer (GIFT), zygote intra-Fallopian transfer (ZIFT), pronuclear stage transfer and embryo intra-Fallopian transfer (EIFT). These techniques are commonly used when the need to use of alternative assisted reproductive technologies cannot be substantially catered by laboratories. However in todayà ¢Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ã‚ ¬Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¾Ã‚ ¢s highly refined laboratories, alternative assisted reproductive technologies such as direct intra-follicular insemination, fallopian spermatic perfusion and peritoneal stage and sperm transfer and intra vaginal culture can highly be performed even with high precision. Positive and Negative Effects of IVF Treatment As mentioned earlier, IVF has already gained wider scope of acceptance in the field of medicine. However, such acceptance needs to be considered even more especially on finding the positive and negative effects of IVF treatment. Even though there is a chance for successful conception with IVF treatment, it still remains a challenge today considering that not everyone has the same level of bodily response to the treatment. There are many things that need to be considered in detail. This detail can somehow be significant factor that will slowly give more meaningful improvement in the treatment. For instance, the ovarian stimulation is said to be very important especially in the assisted reproductive technologies (Ubaldi et al. 235). The ovarian stimulation is said to be associated with several factors as far as its reduction is concerned. When it is reduced, the mutltifollicular growth will live to be a great challenge and it continues to be the most frequent aetilogical factor. Thus, it remains a challenge when it comes to predicting ovarian response. This is just one of the important considerations with respect to obtaining successful IVF treatment. The negative thing about it is that there is no enough assurance for everyone that it can be successful. Thus, there is a continuing area for the body of knowledge covering the issues about the success and failure of IVF treatment. Another thing, with IVF those couples who have been psychologically depressed and at the same time so determined to have an offspring are most likely to feel discomfort the moment procedure or treatment fails. This is a common scenario. However, there are also some couples who have been so determined and it would be enough for them knowing they still have chance with IVF. This is comforting on their side at some point knowing that they still have the chance even if that chance of getting failed is also high. Cloning and In Vitro Fertilization Cloning aside from in vitro fertilization is also one of the most highly studied areas in the field of genetics and molecular biology. There are good points about cloning especially when it comes to food production and other related aspects. However, there is a great challenge of cloning when it comes to creating human beings. The reason is that there are various ethical and political challenges when it comes to its implementation if ever it would be allowed. Cloning therefore cannot be applied to humans but for other animals and plants, it is well appreciated and even now it is already put into implementation for the purpose of food production and other related concerns. Thus, when talking about cloning and in vitro fertilization, even if there is a high chance of failure in the latter, it remains to be the mostly studied in the field of human fertilization. Conclusion Modern techniques in human reproduction have slowly evolved and even the rate of success is becoming remarkably promising. The reason is that there are continuous studies applied in this field resulting to more discoveries of promising and significant information in order to improve the methods and procedures involved in the modern techniques of human reproduction. The case of IVF is a very important contribution to the development of modern techniques of human reproduction in modern times. The emergence of different methods and techniques related to modern techniques of reproduction is a clear indication how important is reproduction to humans. In fact, the bottom line of these all is the fact that humans are designed to reproduce which is meant to be part of their biological design.

Jane Erye vs. Charlotte Bronte Essay -- essays research papers fc

Charlotte Bronte, born in 1816 at Thornton, Yorkshire, England, is an English writer who is one of three sisters, who are also famous for their writings. Bronte wrote Jane Eyre based on her own life experiences, which is why the novel is subtitled â€Å"An Autobiography†. Much of the romantic appeal in Jane Eyre comes from Bronte’s own personal history. Many critics argue that the novel is simply a reflection of Bronte’s life. Furthermore, there are several ways in which, Bronte’s life is similar to the life of Jane and the events that take place in the novel. Charlotte is described as simple, plain, and petite and the daughter of a clergyman just like Jane. Whenever, Charlotte wanted to get away from her daily life, she would absorb herself into the landscape and nature around her to relive her of stress and Jane is also deeply influenced by nature. After the death of her mother, Charlotte was sent to live with her strict and religious aunt, Elisabeth Branwell, who is like Jane’s aunt, Mrs. Reed. In addition, in the house that Charlotte stayed in, there was a small room upstairs that was about the size of a closet, which is similar to the room where Bertha is kept in. On the contrary, this room served as a playroom for Charlotte and her sisters. As a child, Charlotte attended a school specifically for the daughters of clergymen in 1824, which is comparable to Lowood School, where Jane went. Immediately after being a student at the school, Charlotte also became a teacher. In Jane...

Essay on Teens - Popular Musics Impact on Youth -- Exploratory Essays

Popular Music's Impact on Youth Popular music and its artists have an enormous impact on our culture's youth from generation to generation. In almost any generation within the past fifty years, the behavior and beliefs of the majority of pre-teens and teens can be closely correlated with those of the popular music artist's of that time. Which music was "the popular music" changed drastically several times between the 1950s and the present, along with the attitudes of that generation's young adults. With each change in popular music came also a lasting change in the behavior of generations to follow. In some cases, the change was evident --the band or artist was creating or surrounded by controversy-- in other cases, the change was not evident until afterwards, a learning experience perhaps. In the 1950s, Bill Haley and the Comets first used the word "rock" to describe a musical form. They also released two movies, Blackboard Jungle, and Rock Around the Clock, which featured their music and were aimed specifically at young audiences. Blackboard Jungle told a story of teenage alienation and also made a star of Haley because of the overwhelming number of negative criticisms it received. Also, since adults of that time thought the music was just plain bad, the teens were even more drawn to its sound (Brown, 50, 53). Elvis Aaron Presley is known as the "King" today, but in the mid-fifties, he was known as "Elvis the Pelvis" because of his pelvic thrusts and somewhat exaggerated hip movements (67). These sexual mannerisms caught the attention of young women who viewed him as a sex icon, but also caught the attention of the media. In the fifties, these actions were too obscene to be shown on televi... ... What is to be learned from our generation? There does not appear to be a clearly defined movement being promoted like the antiwar movement of the sixties and seventies. Our generation will leave a legacy, or a lesson to be learned. Through the generations we have learned much; drug awareness, responsibility, and safe sex were all changes faced by generations following the previous generation's lifestyles. Our children will face different lifestyles that we are facing now, and the popular music of their time will surely shape their behavior and attitude to fit their generation. Works Cited Brown, Charles T. The Art of Rock and Roll. Englewood Cliffs: Prentice-Hall Inc. 1987. Christgau, Robert. Any Old Way You Choose It: Rock and Other Pop Music, 1967- 1973. Baltimore: Penguin Books Inc. 1973. http://www.factmonster.com/ce6/ent/A0860766.html

Willa Cathers Death Comes for the Archbishop :: Willa Cather Death Comes for the Archbishop

Willa Cather's Death Comes for the Archbishop: Novel and Narrative I found these definitions at an online guide to free online dictionaries: Main Entry: nar ·ra ·tive Pronunciation: 'nar-&-tiv Function: noun Date: 1566 1 : something that is narrated : STORY 2 : the art or practice of narration 3 : the representation in art of an event or story; also : an example of such a representation - narrative adjective - nar ·ra ·tive ·ly adverb Main Entry: novel Function: noun Etymology: Italian novella Date: 1639 1 : an invented prose narrative that is usually long and complex and deals especially with human experience through a usually connected sequence of events 2 : the literary genre consisting of novels - nov ·el ·is ·tic /"nà ¤-v&-'lis-tik/ adjective - nov ·el ·is ·ti ·cal ·ly /-ti-k(&-)lE/ adverb Main Entry: nov ·el Pronunciation: 'nà ¤-v&l Function: adjective Etymology: Middle English, from Middle French, new, from Latin novellus, from diminutive of novus new -- more at NEW Date: 15th century 1 : new and not resembling something formerly known or used 2 : original or striking especially in conception or style <a novel scheme to collect money> I think that one of the hardest problems in distinguishing novel from narrative in DCA is, first of all, distinguishing between the terms "novel" and "narrative" themselves. A narrative seems to be, well, something that is told as a story, or at least being caught in the act of telling one of those stories. A novel seems to be, wait a minute, a narrative? What am I supposed to infer from that? Is this the sound of one hand clapping, Confucius laughing? Have I have been duped? As far as I can tell, all dictionary definitions and joking aside, Death Comes For the Archbishop is a solid mix of both prose and narrative, leaning a little heavier on the narrative side. Cather does explore her characters' humanity, following them and tugging the reader along from event to event, but we, the readers, only get the perspective of the fly on the wall at least, a shallow reading of the characters' feelings and emotions at best. We are never invited deep into the minds of her constructs as we are in most "novels." What Cather does do, though, is create an artistic rendering of the characters and the world that they live in. The reader can, with just a little imagination, see the heat shimmer off the desert, feel the sun beat down on them; they can create, from the general descriptions, characters of flesh and blood. The reader is given a series of snapshots, taken at different times, with nothing substantial to fill in the gapsthis separates it from the dictionary definition of the "novel" which follows, usually, a thicker chronology of the characters' lives.

Effects of prejudice, racism and discrimination in society

Discrimination involves treatment of an individual or a group of people based on class or category. It can be personal, legal or institutional discrimination. It involves denying an individual or a group of people an opportunity that is available to other individuals or groups. Discriminatory actions can be done in different ways but they all involve in one way or the other some form of rejection.There are different forms of discrimination which include but not limited to the following: Age discrimination, gender discrimination, castle discrimination, employment discrimination, sex orientation and gender discrimination, language discrimination, reverse discrimination, disability and religious discrimination (Camponovo, 2003). According to Dunn & McDonald (2004), age discrimination involves unfair treatment of an individual or a group based on age. It usually occurs in one of the three different forms: Adultism (discrimination against adults), discrimination against people older than 40 and also discrimination against elderly people.It mostly happens in employment where by employees prefer younger people for employment ignoring older people with their experience although laws have been put in place to help reduce the practice. Gender discrimination involves negative believes and attitude based on gender. Employment discrimination involves locking out a group of people from applying and receiving jobs because of race, disability, religion, age and sexual orientation (Michinov, Dambrun, Guimond & MÃ ©ot, 2005).Racism refers to discrimination of individuals based on social divisions that may not always be connected to race. Prejudice involves an opinion or judgment made before facts are verified. The judgment is mostly based on gender, race, ethnicity, social class, disability and also age. There are different forms of prejudice; cognitive, affective and behavioral (Guerin, 2005). These types of discriminations have led to unequal distribution of jobs and resource s in general. Because of inequality, most groups have been denied justice.Examples include legal discrimination against Black South Africans and also different post-civil war laws that exist in the southern American states which disadvantaged blacks living there in regard to property ownership, employment and other factors such as movement, where Blacks are not allowed o pass through Whites’ residential areas. This has led to increased crimes and hatred among people. It has raised tensions between countries like the Muslim countries and America (Mcdonald, 2009). For peaceful co-existence, there is need to ensure equal treatment amongst people regardless of their age, religion and other differences that may exist.

Explain how an organisation could ensure its staff selection procedure promotes equal opportunities

An organisation can ensure the selection equal to making sure it is non-discriminatory. This means that all staff are selected by their ability in work ethics and their resume rather than protected characteristic, such as; age, marital status, sexual orientation, race, disability, religion and etc. For example, an interviewer cannot choose a candidate based on their race. All candidate are given a fair interview procedure. This can be done by the interview panel being mixed, having pre-listed questions or having interviews at different times and an accessible location. When regarding advertisement the organisation would need to focus on making their platform is diverse in order for it to be open up to the wide audience. The advertisement should not be limited to particular cultures or language. It should be based on the candidate resume and work ethic. Therefore, it is vital that the organisation are aware of the language they are using when advertising. The organisation having mixed panel would enable an equal chance for the interviewee because the others might balance it out and focus on the skills and qualities of the interviewee. The mixed panel consists of having a diverse panel, such as; gender, culture, disability, age and ethnicity. By having a mixed gender and culture panel can ensure that the interviewee is protected from prejudice viewpoint. An example to show the effectiveness of mixed panel interview in a selection procedure would be one interviewer having a prejudice feeling towards the interviewee and hopefully, the others can balance it. Thus creating a fairer interview for the interviewee. The one-to-one interview can cause hostility and less fairness than a mixed panel because it enables the interviewer to be in control. Whilst mixed panel has a majority decision. A second interview process that the organisation would use to make sure that their staff selection procedure is equal is having pre-listed questions. Pre-set questions make sure that everyone being interviewed is asked the same questions in order to promote equality. It made sure that the interviewer cannot ask questions that discriminate against the interviewee. For example, women being asked their being asked about their marital status. A pre-listed question would make it equal and easy to judge between the interviewees because all of the candidates would be asked the same questions. Therefore, eliminating prejudice or discriminatory questions the interviewee may be asked by the interviewer. This is because pre-listed questions are already determined questions. Thus making it standardised and more equal for the interviewees because they would be all be asked the same questions and none of them would be discriminated or given special treatment. The last interview procedure is having an interview at different times and if possible for the organisation to have its inaccessible locations. Interviews should be held in a range of times. This would granted that everyone has the time to go for an interview. It is not limiting the number of interviewees. Avoiding different slots such as 3pm-4pm due to parents picking up their children from school. For the location, it is not necessary to have five different locations but the location should be clear and if possible in more than one place. Wheelchair users should be able to access the building in order to give them an equal chance of applying for the job. Thus making sure that the organisation is promoting equality in their staff selection procedure. When advertising for job applicants the organisation to make sure that there advert is not gender restricted. This means that the advert should not be seeking one gender over the other. Using one word such as ‘waitresses needed’ can imply that the applicants must only be female rather than a mixed gender. To overcome this the organisation should use unisex words to describe professions, such as; doctors, actors, teachers, bar worker and etc. By doing this the organisation would not be limiting the number of applicants because they have opened the advertisement to both genders. It is vital that an organisation is aware of the advertising platform they are using because if they were to advert in specific broadcasting which would limit those that are not familiar with it. For example, if the organisation choose to advertise in a French newspaper. This would disadvantage those that want to apply for a job that is not familiar with the newspaper. Nevertheless, the advert should not demand a person that has a mother tongue that is French. This is due to that there are people that can speak fluently in French, however, their native tongue is not of French. The advert should head in a direction that says a ‘looking for a person fluent in French. ’ This would enable people with knowledge in French to apply. In general, the organisation should be aware of the language they use when advertising and the platform in order to promote an equal opportunity for all candidates applying for the job.

Aldi Hr

Introduction ALDI is a global food retailer. Since opening its first store in 1913, Aldi has established itself as a reputable retailer operating in international markets including Germany, Australia and the U. S. Aldi has over 7,000 stores worldwide. What distinguishes Aldi from its competitors is its competitive pricing strategy without reducing the quality of its products. In fact, in some cases Aldi’s products are 30% cheaper than those offered by its competitors. Aldi can do this because the business operates so efficiently. The Times Case Studies, 2011) ALDI and HR Aldi has a very flat organisational structure. In the UK it is split into 5 regions (there are 62 internationally); each region operates individually, only sharing the purchasing function. Each region has 5 departments, and there are only 3 levels between the Store Assistants and the Managing Director of the Region. Organisational Structure Noticeably, there is no IT, Marketing or HR function in the structure. IT and Marketing are both outsourced to third parties.IT are called on as and when needed by whichever department needs them at the time, whether it be till maintenance, or maintaining the logistics software package. Marketing is outsourced to a company in Atherstone, and their link in the organisation is the Trading function. HR is stripped back within ALDI, and is headed by 2 HR Managers in the Store Operations Function. All area managers within ALDI are trained in HR, and deal with all personnel issues, from Recruitment, to performance management and Training and Development.The HR managers in Head Office purely focus on making sure the Area Managers are up to date with new legislation and policies. ALDI adopt a grandfather technique, where, store managers have little to do with HR. It is their job to focus on the store, and deal with staff rotas and minor issues. This way, store employees report to their line manager for operational issues, and the Area Manager for HR issues. T he only HR issue not practised by Area Managers is Payroll, which falls into the Finance Function.ALDI is extremely focused on productivity and efficiency, and because of this, the Neston Region in the UK is trialling using a HR Agency (Kinetic), to manage a major amount of its HR function. The agency takes care of Recruitment, Induction, Payroll, Development, Performance Management, and acts as a HR Manager for the agency staff within ALDI. ALDI intend to get to a point where 70% of store staff is through an agency, with exception to Store Managers, Assistant Managers, Deputies and Full Time Staff. This saves money as it takes a lot of responsibility off Area Managers, leaving them with more time to focus on operations.According to Righeimer (Date Unknown, p. 4), most organizations view the department of Human Resources (HR) as an administrative function and ignore the need and opportunity to align it with its strategic plans. Aligning HR and strategic plans is an important endeavo ur for every organisation. Studies strongly support the alignment between strategies, HR, and performance and thus show the potential role HR can play in implementing strategy and developing an organisation’s competitive advantage. How HR activities support the organisations strategyRecruitment and Selection, Performance Management, and Training and Development are three HR activities that support the organisations strategy. (Hameed, 2011) Recruitment and Selection According to ALDI’s strategy (2012), â€Å"We want every ALDI employee to have a rewarding career, with opportunities to grow and develop, whether they work in our stores, distribution centres or management teams. We expect our people to be committed, hard-working and take ownership of their responsibilities. In return, we provide salaries that are considerably above the rest of the industry. The recruitment and selection activity supports this by ensuring the right people are hired first time. It is vital to find committed, hardworking people, who have a pride in their work and take responsibility for their success and mistakes. Productivity, quality and service are three of ALDI’s focuses, so HR’s ability to attract and select people with the right knowledge, skills and attitude is vital. As it is down for the most part to the Area Manager to fulfil this HR role, it is vital they have the skills to recognise the right sort of employee who would fit in the business.The major disadvantage of using the agencies, as currently being trialled, is that the agencies do not work in the stores, and are an outsider to the culture and work ethic of ALDI. For that reason, the Area Managers should have complete control, as they know what sort of person they need, how to motivate them, and exactly what is expected with ALDI’s culture. Performance Management â€Å"We have developed a range of high quality, structured training programmes to enable our employees to fulfil their roles successfully.ALDI Managers have a responsibility to develop and motivate employees, rewarding excellent performance and continuous improvement. † (ALDI, 2012) A HR activity that is also performed in part by Area Managers is performance management. As Area Managers spend a lot of time in stores, they can see the productivity of staff, who is excelling and who needs a little motivation. The store manager reports performance to them also, so they get a complete picture. The agencies receive reports from the Store Managers, only if something is not working out.The agencies manage the performance of their employees, but do not really focus on opportunities or continuous improvement, as they do not have the power in store to do so. Likewise, store managers and Area Managers do not focus on the agencies employees, as technically they are not their own. If this was fully down to the Area Managers again, and Store Managers were given a greater role, staff could be managed better. Stand out performers could be recognised better, and future progression would be a benefit.Also, employees would be more engaged and productive with a clear structure and with everyone being part of the same â€Å"team†, no â€Å"us† and â€Å"them† as such. Training â€Å"We want to attract the best talent and ours are among the highest advertised starting salaries for graduates in the UK and Ireland. Over 85% of our Directors are recruited from within the company, demonstrating the importance we place on training and development and rewarding performance. † (ALDI, 2012) The Training and Development aspect of HR is focused highly on, within ALDI. There is constant training available and succession plans in place for most stores.Deputies are trained to do the Assistant Managers job in case of Sickness, Pregnancy or Resignation of the latter, and likewise with the Assistant Managers, they are trained to do the Store Managers Role. Store Assistants are enc ouraged to progress to Deputies based on performance. Training and Development is also evident throughout Head Office. Area Managers are only recruited through Graduate Schemes, and Directors are successful Area Managers. 85% of the Directors were Area Managers, whereas the other 15% are either from international ALDI head offices, or â€Å"born into it†, i. e. the Albrieght family.The obvious disadvantage with the Agency is that they have no say or decision in regards to Training. As its employees are employed by them and not ALDI, they do not have access to the same training and development. How HR Professionals support line managers and their Staff With a 2006 ASTD study finding that 70% of training failure happens after the formal training finishes and a recent CIPD study finding that only 12% of employees feel that line managers take learning and development very seriously, it’s a little surprising that more is not being done to gain line manager support in the de velopment process. Peterson, 2006) The role of the line managers has changed over the last twenty years.There is a widespread drive to give line managers more responsibility for the management of their staff and to reduce the extent to which human resource departments control or restrict line management autonomy in this area (Brewster & Larson, 2000). HR professionals no longer have sole responsibility for the management of people, but share this responsibility with line managers. There is evidence that HR responsibilities are increasingly decentralized nd devolved to line managers (Cunningham & Hyman, 1995). In ALDI, Cunningham and Hyman’s point (1995) that responsibility is shared is correct, if not more centred toward the line manager rather than a 50/50 split. This is probably due to the amount of time passed since their original comment. It is interesting that what they originally said nearly 20 years ago still applies, giving the impression that the HR function has been under fire for quite some time, yet is still here in a pretty similar form in most companies.The line manager in terms of ALDI would be the Area Manager and the HR Professionals for the Area Manager. With the Agency staff, their line manager for HR would be their external agency manager. HR professionals in ALDI support the line managers by providing updated regulations, policies and visions down, to be implemented further down. The obvious benefit of Line Managers taking a front line role in HR, is that they know the staff better. HR Professionals in Head Office do not work with the store employees and do not know about performance or what motivates each individual.The CIPD states that where employees feel positive about their relationship with their front line managers, moreover, they are more likely to have higher levels of job satisfaction, commitment and loyalty – which are in turn associated with higher levels of performance or discretionary behaviour. (CIPD, 2 012) As the HR professionals have empowered the Line managers as such, it improves employee engagement. Talent can be spotted, managed and trained, and with the right people in the right jobs, the team’s works better together and is more productive.Consistency is an issue that can arise when different Line Managers have different attitudes and ways of working. This is when support from HR is vital as they can provide guidelines and policies that ensure the message across the company is consistent. With the agency, it does mean that the message HR is sending out, is not necessarily what the agency is doing / preaching. This is another shortfall in the HR process when it comes to agency working. If Area Managers had complete control and there was no agency, then the message would be consistent across the board.Conclusion and Recommendations It is evident that HR takes a simple yet complex form in ALDI. Although it is missing from the organisational structure, it is practiced in part by at least 46 Area Managers. There is a big emphasis on Training and Development throughout the company, and HR activities are being used for succession planning and finding the next generation of ALDI AM’s and Directors. The use of the agency seems to be slightly detrimental to ALDI’s message, and outsourcing the HR like it is, will cause confusion, and splits in the teams.They need to revert to AM as the main HR leader within the Area and only use agencies at times such as Christmas for relief workers etc. As AM know better than any agency, the staff recruited and selected will more than likely be more productive and fit the company better. Also, there may be an issue with succession planning if their aim of outsourcing most staff jobs out is achieved. It would seem that they would hire the people themselves, after trialling them with the agency, so why not just hire directly anyway.The overall finding however, is that HR must remain in the company, and be man aged as it once was. Eliminating the HR function more so than now, will cause major problems, and those problems are starting to arise now. If HR wasn’t managed at Head Office, then inconsistent practices would be followed out, creating discomfort within the stores and the ALDI mantra of Team working would be lost.Works Cited ALDI, 2012. CSR – Our People. [Online] Available at: http://www. aldi. co. uk/uk/html/company/15435_25201. tm [Accessed 06 11 2012]. Brewster, C. & Larson, H. , 2000. Human Resource Management in Europe. London: Blackwells. CIPD, 2012. Role of Line Managers In HR. [Online] Available at: http://www. cipd. co. uk/hr-resources/factsheets/role-line-managers-hr. aspx [Accessed 06 11 2012]. Cunningham, I. & Hyman, J. , 1995. Transforming the HRM vision into Reality: The Role of Line Managers. Employee Relations, 17(8), pp. 5-20. Hameed, T. , 2011. Organisation Strategy and Human Reosurce. [Online] Available at: http://www. rutilities. com/2011/0 9/organization-strategy-and-human-resource/ [Accessed 06 11 2012]. Peterson, E. , 2006. Employee Relations. 2nd ed. Chicago: Hardwell Press. Righeimer, J. P. , Date Unknown. Aligning Human Resources and Strategic Plans, London: Maverick Electric. The Times Case Studies, 2011. Aldi – Competitive Advantage through Efficiency. [Online] Available at: http://businesscasestudies. co. uk/aldi/competitive-advantage-through-efficiency/introduction. html#ixzz2CEnCsFmq [Accessed 06 11 2012].

Gender Representation †Boardwalk Empire Essay

As a hybrid genre, the representations in Boardwalk Empire are complex, contradictory, unconventional, conventional and stereotypical, whilst challenge stereotypes. Set in the 1920’s during prohibition, Nucky is a corrupt Republican politician and gangster, who has risen to his position through bribery, corruption, and murder. The series begins as prohibition begins, with Nucky toasting the government who ban alcohol; â€Å"†¦to those beautiful ignorant bastards in Washington†. As a gangster, Nucky knows he can make millions by supplying illegal alcohol to the public and is portrayed as a businessman, making money for all the ‘respectable’ local dignitaries that sit around his table; the chief of police (his brother Ely), the mayor, the head of the port authority, local Politicians, etc. He sees an opportunity through the prohibition to increase his fortune. There is a lot of juxtapositioning in the first episode to show us the various sides of Nucky, as a violent alcohol heist is followed by Nucky addressing a Ladies’ Temperance Society. Nucky weaves a myth of his own childhood of poverty, catching rats for his family to eat, to the gasps of the audience. Embodying the American Dream, Nucky has ‘risen’ from very humble beginnings to be top man in the state, he is merely seeking the ‘women’s vote’ for his Political re-election and often shows their ignorance of world politics proves them an easy mark for manipulation to gain full power over the Atlantic City. Nucky is a complex protagonist and anti-hero who is both despicable and admirable. He is obviously very clever, charming, funny, calculating, ruthless, and a skilful businessman and gangster. He juggles a legal political life with his illegal prohibition life, dealing with a constant flurry of unexpected problems as they arise. He manipulates people in ways that should make audiences hate him but Steve Buscemi (and the writers) manages to portray him as a complex character that seeks more than just money. The low camera angles throughout help suggesting Nucky is a very powerful figure in the drama. The power wield of woman in Boardwalk Empire is largely associated with sex, and furthermore this power of woman is represented through the male characters using it against eachother. For example Gillian Darmody, mother of gangster: Jimmy Darmody and a topless dancer in the city, plays a pivotal role when she sleeps with a rival gangster: Luciano in order to detain him until he can be collected and dealt with. Her sexual power is turned to the gangsters own advantage. Lucy Daziger is another key representation of sexual power and woman in Boardwalk Empire. She is the beautiful mol and mistress of Nucky who is often a negative representation of woman – dismissed constantly in favour of Nucky’s political and illegal life. She is objectified by him and others and is kept at his beck and call. During an evening at dinner with others, Lucy insists she has a brain but is quietened by Nucky, and we see Lucy has no place for opinion at the dinner with the Commodore in terms of politics. When Nucky rejects Lucy, he favours Margaret, because she is intelligent and sees her more as an equal for example at the same dinner Margaret expresses deep knowledge and understanding of politics. Lucy is extremely jealous of Margaret as Nucky clearly shows more affection for her, which is unconventional as Lucy is the beautiful mistress, often seeming powerful, Margaret is the opposite.. Margaret is the other key representation in the drama as she challenges the notion of ‘the little woman’ throughout the series. An Irish immigrant, clever, brave, and moral (but racked by guilt), her motives are often those of a protective Mother. Initially established as naive and unsophisticated, particularly by her dowdy dress codes i. colour codes are very dull: browns, greens, her deferential body-language, and her thick Irish accent, she is represented as a weak, ordinary and poor woman. For example her dress codes of poor clothing often lacking in quality, and colour. Margaret grows in confidence throughout the seasons, as her and Nucky begin a relationship. An Irish immigrant she is wise beyond her years, Margaret quickly becomes versed in the dealings of her â€Å"husba nd† and becomes a supportive and protective ‘wife’ for his chaotic life. In her previous marriage Margaret was represented in a weak and negative way enduring endless beatings from her husband Hans. An incident of abuse had caused Margaret to miscarry her 4th child, and so Nucky ordered to have Hans murdered. Margaret knows of this but chooses to remain silent for the benefit of herself and her kids, later racked with Catholic guilt over the murder, their life, and their source of income. Nucky proceeds to live with her and her children, becoming a sensitive father figure to the kids, and a loving ‘husband’ to her.

Benchmarking Sustainability Practices Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Benchmarking Sustainability Practices - Essay Example Benchmarking sustainability practices is an important area for all businesses to focus on strongly. Sustainability issues maintain the level of success and profitability for the organization and allow them to reap further rewards and benefits from the business that they are conducting. The use of benchmarking practices can be successful for all organization in implying those business practices that can derive the optimum level of successful results. The economic benefits, the environmental benefits and the growth of the tourism business can allow it to measure its success with the sustainability benchmarking practice. Tourism business is a very versatile business and to maintain its success level its sustainability elements need to be worked upon closely and made sure that the best benchmarking practices are implemented. The other businesses in which sustainability benchmarking practices can be used are the pharmaceutical sectors. The pharmaceutical business needs to be constantly making sustainable improvements and maintain their level of products. Sustainable benchmarking practices are extremely important to practice in the pharmaceutical industry. The housing sector business can also use the sustainability benchmarking practices for making their business successful and profitable in the industry. The housing sector may be faced with constant change in demands from the customers and therefore they need to maintain their level of quality and price. Sustainability benchmarking practices can be used widely in the housing sector business.

EC 202 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words - 2

EC 202 - Essay Example Even recession in other foreign countries also have an effect in demand of a product of United States. After falling of aggregate demand, if there are no chances of raising it, then the producers will bring down the production level and to maintain the cost they will lay-off employees. This leads to increase in unemployment. As output is low, the demand for money will also get lower and that is why interest rate will be low. Here, price level will be become unchanged. The second shock is based on money and recession caused by credit limits. It is mainly caused for the low money supply and velocity with rises in price index. The reason behind it is tightened monetary policy where financial institutions try to reduce the amount of loan. As the money supply is low, the interest rate will become high which directly affects the demand for goods. And again same as demand caused recession the output and employment will be low. The third shock is cost- push inflation. It occurs mainly because of increase in the cost. At the first stage, it happens because of the raise of wage which ultimately raises the cost and then the price also. So, demand will become low and a result of that production will also be low and employment will get effected. Because of high level of price demand for money will raise which means interest rate will also rise. These are the effects of cause - push inflation. Growth problem indicate the higher level of gross domestic product (GDP). However, GDP increase the demand for money and so the interest rate becomes high but the demand for goods is comparatively low that is why producers start producing less which brings down the output as well as the employment. Ultimately the demand for money will become low which will lead to fall in interest rate. It is not necessary that inflation will happen because of the money every time; it can be caused by demand also. The relationship

Do Merit-Based Scholarships Make Sense Research Paper

Do Merit-Based Scholarships Make Sense - Research Paper Example This essay discusses why merit-based scholarships do not actually make sense and why they are unfavorable and unfair for financially needy students. Because of their vested interests, university and college managements seek to attract meritorious students through merit-based scholarships to enhance the public image and fame of their institutions. Merit-based scholarships are provided irrespective of the beneficiary’s financial status, often resulting in the provision of scholarships to those who can already afford their education, and may also result in the disproportionate distribution of financial aid at the expense of need-based scholarships. These scholarships are usually based on admission tests that are not designed for this purpose, and therefore, they are unfair and damage the educational system. In fact, it appears that merit-based scholarships are designed to satiate the interests of college managements and often violate the rights of those actually in need of financ ial aid. These scholarships do not really make sense because financial assistance is provided to the student irrespective of whether he/she needs it or not. As will be discussed further on, merit-based scholarships do more harm than good to the education system. ... A look at Lewis & Clark College scholarships shows that meritorious students in fields such as music and forensics, and those with leadership qualities and other such traits are more favored. Peter Schmidt (2007), in his article, â€Å"At the elite colleges - dim white kids†, argues that the admission policies of most colleges are not usually fair and that more preference is often given to whites from affluent families or those with connections. According to him, students with â€Å"connections† or are from wealthy families obtain entry into colleges and universities selectively through recommendations from wealthy alumni and donors who grant endowments to those educational institutions. Schmidt further argues that the endowments received by educational institutions are also disproportionately distributed. According to him, only 40% of the money from financial aid is being distributed to students having financial need. The remaining is being used for merit-based scholar ships to â€Å"potential recruits who can enhance a college's reputation, or appear likely to cover the rest of their tuition tab and to donate down the road†. As Grossman puts it, â€Å"colleges are like any business for whom â€Å"quality† customers enhance the reputation of the product and attract other customers† (1995). Educational institutions must move on from being mere â€Å"businesses† with vested interests to being cradles of quality education with equal educational opportunities for all. It is seen that merit based scholarships are provided irrespective of the beneficiary’s financial status. Even if a student is wealthy enough to afford his fee, he avails merit-based scholarships based on his exceptional achievements. Other needy students who cannot afford their education

Health implications related to the personal health and wellbeing of Essay

Health implications related to the personal health and wellbeing of individual patients in hospital and domestic settings - Essay Example My immediate guess was that both chemotherapy and laser therapy had affected his body metabolism to a certain extent. He was a patient very concerned about his appearance. Being just 27 years of age and unmarried, he wanted to look smart all the time. He recalled the fact that he had a very stylish hair style prior to undergoing chemotherapy. He lamented stroking the few remaining strands of hair remaining in his otherwise bald head. The patient said he used to look in the mirror often and was very proud of his neatly combed hair earlier, but now he was devastated by the figure looking back at him when looking in the mirror. According to him his hair style enhanced his personality and every one used to comment on it. I knew that he was visibly shaken by his hair loss and this was affecting him psychologically. He asked me whether his hair would grow again. Due to his hair loss he told me that his confidence was shattered and did not know how to face society once he was discharged from hospital. Chemotherapy treatment often causes hair loss basically because the cells in the hair follicles grow fast (Baker, 1996). Hair loss would not be a permanent issue and the hair will grow back once the patient's treatment has ended. In fact chemotherapy damages fast growing cells, however all drugs will not cause hair loss and in some scenarios it just cause thinning and others cause dramatic hair loss including the body hair and eye brows (Bandura, 1998). Moreover, different people have different tolerances to the drugs and occasionally, some people lose their hair when it is not expected and sometimes in other cases no hair loss occurs when it is expected. The patient did not understand how certain drugs produced negative side effects in the long run, when I told him that certain chemical combinations coming from different drugs would have caused his hair roots to destabilize he thought that I was talking about some alien disease. When I explained this to him and said that his hair loss was temporarily he was much relieved and satisfied. Finally a smile appeared on his hitherto gloomy face. He thanked me a lot for enlightening him about his hair loss. I was much satisfied when a smile finally appeared on his face. Entry two This week I had an encounter with a patient who complained of a swelling in the neck and in the groin and the legs. But he was experiencing no pain. He also complained of an early feeling of fullness of the stomach and recurrent abdominal pain. He was sixteen years of age and had been an active member of the school soccer team and other sports sometime back. But now he was thin and frail and has been under medication for some time. He lamented that he was unable to go to school and take part in soccer practices which he loved so much. He had been a boy of robust build but of late has lost a lot of weight and said he was having a feeling of 'lack of energy'. This apart he experienced chills, fevers and night sweats on a regular basis. Being the only child in the family, he was the apple in the eye of his parents. He wanted to do all that he can to make his parents proud. Though not a very bright student in his studies, he was very keen on sports and said that his ambition was to