An Analysis of the Movie ( Mystic River ) Assignment

An Analysis of the Movie ( Mystic River ) - Assignment Example The politics concerned with planning in Mystic River is stemmed from planning issues. The freedom of staying in slum community and environment raises the issue of planning in the movie. Furthermore, the freedom in the slum dwelling is not always enjoyed due to higher density demographic, similarly, the high density population causes the community to be too close, physically. The high population in the urban area poses obstruction to planning and other related issues. The communal obstruction in the movie has similar results that usually invoke changes among the communities. The planning politics in the film illustrate positions of public welfare where the personal gains and interest is the main protagonist. The planning politics began with water issues and overall welfare, and the effect of political affairs on the environmental nature. The Boston environment is maximized to suit the desires of the located citizens. Analysis of Mystic River and urban planning involved coordination of time and speed, which is juxtaposed with geography and history. The director of the movie focused on the relation between the cinematic space and urban planning. Since the special categories of the movie based on its topographies, location, site, and settings have changed in the entire movie. The movie integrates that understanding between geography and history without giving one a privilege (Belly, 14). Talking about the limited liability in urban development, is important to note that Lynch discovered the five elements like landmarks, nodes, edges, and paths compared to those that build the image cities (Peterson,119). In the film, the urban dwellers used social contact and personal communication to make personal connection in Boston city. Such networks in the film include the dating agencies, clubs, and public ballrooms. The network served the characters that are desperate and lonely; in addition, they served those that are happy

Through Deaf Eyes Essay Example for Free

Through Deaf Eyes Essay While watching Through Deaf Eyes, there were a lot of things that I didn’t think about before. For example, when they started talking about how even in deaf schools, African Americans were segregated from the rest of the white people I was a little thrown off by this. When talking about this in history classes, I never thought about segregating people twice?! The deaf community was already misunderstood and had to have their own schools and now the black deaf community had to be pushed out even farther? This concept started a whole new world for me. In my life, I really have never been exposed to sign language before. I think I have only met one real deaf person and he was about three and had a cochlear implant. So, the deaf community has never popped into my mind when it came to things like this. I think that another big part of the movie, for me, was when the students from Gallaudet University protested against their new president because she wasn’t deaf. Again, this is not something that I had never thought about before. It was big when Obama first became president that was a big turning point for America and also very moving. I know it was more important to the African American community because of their history and how crazy that was for them! Now, I know I can’t relate to the deaf community but I do understand that as an all-deaf university there should be an all-deaf staff, including the president. For those students to fight that hard and win just goes to show how dedicated they are in preserving their community and not afraid to fight for what they believe in and what is right. I really like how proud and powerful the deaf community is when it comes to standing up for themselves and others. The last thing that I really liked which was really the first thing, was the man in the very beginning of the film. I thought that it was a very powerful way to start. We often don’t think about what we say before we say it and a comment like, â€Å"Are you deaf?!† isn’t always going to turn out well for you in the end. That’s just like that, â€Å"That’s gay† comments that some people make. I don’t like that word and I try not to repeat it. I have an uncle who is gay and when I hear those kinds of comments I will most likely say something about it. I know that if I ever made that mistake about the deaf comment and a deaf person then asked me, â€Å"Are you hearing?!† I would feel pretty embarrassed and ashamed. I do admit that I have said that in the past, not ever thinking about it ever hurting someone. I can say now, that I will not say that because it is just like calling something/someone gay when you don’t mean it. After watching this movie and especially now that I am taking this class and learning so much about the deaf culture, I know that I will learn so much more and be able to think with another angle.

Role of Tourism in Economic Development

Role of Tourism in Economic Development All sectors of the economy play an important role in making a stable and long running development. Tourism is one of the sectors which plays an important role in development and also generates foreign revenues. This sector is peaceful and reflects the nature and beauty of the country. It helps people of far flung areas to promote their culture and norms, it also provide opportunity to country to make a better image around the world. There are many issues this sector is facing nowadays and the popularity of this sector is sliding down day by day means that people is not ready to make tours because of many problems and threats to security and life. Several studies and researches have been conducted on this tourism and its relation to development of economy and also that how can we promote this sector? How can we create better image to world and also what measures we can use to maximize the development? Michael Hitchcock (2004) had explained that tourism and culture have a deep relation. Culture is based on originality, authority, authenticity and many more. Tourists are attracted by such types of factors, he says that invest and reinvest is not modernization and its the human culture that remain there for a long time. Tradition is invested and process goes on its known as constructivist. Cultural transmission is not an authentic option, reproduction is not renew it have its own originality. We should make a clear difference in between the reproduction and originality. In order to save the cultural heritage and to attract tourists he says that culture should bi neat and original. Mohamed Tangi (1977) had conducted a research that Mediterranean handles one-third of world tourism that has damaged the environment of that region due to many factors. He says that Greece, Spain, Cyprus these countries are visited more and the environment is quite hurt for dense tourism to these areas. The natural sites are reduced due to excessive construction for tourists and visitors. Tourism and environment are two parallels that move together, tourism mainly depends on environment along other factors, world is facing huge and fast rising in pollution as more tourism is rising in world. Environment can be man-made, natural or cultural in nature, all have effects on tourism and vice versa, cultural environment includes art, religion and human relations, which can be effected or disturbed by tourism. The countries which are rich in these factors can attract more tourists to their region; tourists may introduce new ways or styles to the places, which can be waste or injurious to th e visited destination. He explained few alternative strategies or development policies to promote tourism to the region. It includes the land use planning, expand and construct islands, holidays and pricing policy, facilities to tourists, anti-pollution and policies, training and information to locals, rules and codes of conduct. Using these and promoting these strategies country can raise its tourism level and also promote development in the region. Tourism will be based on co-operation and planning in the future world, united nation environmental program and world tourism organization both are working and have to play an active role in tourism promotion and protection. Barry Liddle (1989) had explained that tourism is helpful for local government to have a better economy and development. Presently it is the leading sector of the world and it will be stronger in future. Tourism can be of many types i.e. for leisure, work and business or for any purpose. Here industrial tourism is important type of tourism that can generate much information and knowledge. It further has an option that modern industrial tourism means that companies choose a day and at that day they arrange a proper tour to their company or exhibition. They also provide the full tourists facilities to visitors, so to make them feel comfortable. The industrial tours can be updated to local and national level to boost the economy, audit, local, central government and different councils should step in to make this type of tourism better and popular. Erik Cohen (1984) had made a research that there are not much empirical studies in tourism economy, so this is required as we are moving into new and fast world. There are four main principles in tourism i.e. tourist that based upon his motivations, attitudes, role and reaction in response to others actions, the ideas, thinking and relationship of the locals and tourist matters in this sector, the structure and infrastructure of tourism system is an important part that can help it to flourish, the better the system the better will be the outcomes and economic and social impact from tourism to visited destinations. Tourism is based on culture that helps this industry to develop and become a helping hand to economy. More empirical study is needed to merge it with theory and provide world more information about this sector in a systematic way. Amanda Stonza (2001) has explained in the article that tourism is mainly divided into two parts i.e. origins of tourism and impacts of tourism and the main problem is that tourism origins is only concerned with tourists and foreigners, while the impacts are only related to local public. The two halves provide different meaning and together they also only provide partial meanings not full, so origins of tourism should include the local public that how they can attract tourists? How they can promote the tourism in their region? Same is the case with the impacts of tourism; it should include the tourists who are willing to visit the particular places in world. What are the changes that have occurred in tourist after the trip? Origins and impacts both should be positive then the countrys social, cultural and economical conditions will be develop and their tourism sector will grow in a positive manner. Janette Deacon (2006) explains tourism as an important sector of economy and also throws light on not so important type of tourism i.e. rock art conversation. This type of tourism is known as cultural or heritage tourism, cultural or heritage sites are main reasons behind the tourism in most Asian nations like China, India, Pakistan and SriLanka. Rock art conversation is famous in African nations, this tourism is in Africa but its not on large scale. Many ways are discussed to promote rock art conversation tourism so we can save it for vanishing from world. Factors that promote all types of tourism including this rock art conversation is training, skills, education guidelines, security, interests, attractions and many more. These factors will help tourism economy to expand that can create a better image of countrys tourism sector around the globe. International council on monuments and sites and international cultural tourism charter are two major sources to save and promote rock art conversation in tourism sector. Agha Iqrar Haroon (2002) had explained that sustainable tourism can be achieved by working together with the local public sites that can be visited. Ecotourism in Pakistan is not working in a proper manner and Pakistan is not even near to sustainable tourism. In the northern areas 70% of economy is in hands of big businessmen that belong to other provinces and only 30% are in hands of local public. This local public has to survive on daily basis wages and all this is due to big businessmen have share of 70% from revenues and they also have support of tourism companies and government either local or federal. Local public is ignored in framing the policies and sharing the generated revenues, the big businessmen can provide imported facilities to foreigners that the locals are failed to do so. These acts have a negative impact on the employment and on living and earnings of local public of those northerner areas, so government should take few daring steps to save the public from exploit ation from these wealthy investors. Government can invest in these areas, can ensure participation , secure future of local public, share more revenues to locals, heavy tax should be imposed on wealthy businessmen, irrelevant construction should be discouraged, local goods should be used that will generate profits and employment in region, training and guidance to public of concerned area. By doing all these actions our northern areas can be a top place to visit and Pakistan can achieve a sustainable and healthy development in tourism sector. Dean Maccannell (2002) says that tourism is faster growing sector and it has relations to the non-economic factors. Ego factor counts a lot in tourism that personal behavior about tourism and travel, tourism is dependent on the classical and touristy experimental commodity. Ownership and attraction are non-economic factors in tourism or travel, tourism can promote opportunity, preservation and care of cultural heritage will promote tourism and theses are the main factors along the other factors that help to make a stable growth in this fast expanding sector. In short the human ego and the attractions to tourist sites are important factor for development of tourism economy of any country. Yoel Mansfeld (1994) conducted a survey on the tourism in Middle East and what are the major factors that have reduced the tourism to the region of world? In 1980s average growth rate of world for tourism is 6.2% and for Middle East it is 5.9% approx. Turkey and Greece also suffers from the conflict in Middle East between Israel and Palestine. Author also explains that international tourism is main source for developing countries to generate revenues, boost economy, creates jobs and much more. All these things will help them develop and achieve stability. Security situation has a huge impact on tourism around the globe and especially in Middle East that how much Israel suffered? How much other Arab and non-Arab nations have to face decline in their tourism? War or conflict between the Arabs and Israel is major threat to tourism in Middle East. Spill over effects are major in world tourism that if one country suffers from security threats her neighbor will also have to face the conseq uences being a neighbor. Spill over effects will determine their market strategies it means that how well you handle the pressure which is upon you due to disturbance in your neighbor country to save tourism industry of your country? Nowadays terrorism is main threat to world and especially in Middle East as the war is on in that region. So world have to sit together to find a safe and easy solution to this security threats and terrorism to save the tourism industry. Peter Murphy et al. (1989) along with his partner conducted a research that tourism is indirectly related to natural disasters, but this combination is rarely seen in world. Recently the two such cases are occurred one at Mount St. Helen eruptions in 1980 and the second is East Kootenay forest fires in 1985. These two areas are hit by natural calamity and that also effects the tourism ratio in these regions. In first case 30% decline is showed and in second case millions of dollars loss is shown. Along the natural calamity the man-made disasters also are common in world i.e. terrorism and other security threats to world tourism, the event of hijacking of Achille Lauro in 1985 have effected the tourism in Mediterranean region. Disaster planning have for main stages i.e. assessment, warning, impact and recovery, impact and recovery are two main stages that have more effects on tourism. Media coverage plays an important role that how media will post image to world? If the coverage is po sitive then recovery will be faster and if the coverage is negative then problem grows double and tourism will be badly disturbed. So nation should always be prepare for disasters and disaster management authorities should be at standby to handle the problem and also can save tourism industry. Eric Neumayer (2004) used the fix effects panel estimators and dynamic generalized method in this research on small sample size of countries to find the effects of tourism. His main focus is on political violence and other acts that can effect the tourism economy. Tourists always look and prefer the safe sites for tour and they are not ready to take risk for enjoyment. Democratic regimes are more successful in handling the violence pressure and autocratic regimes are not able to cope with the violence that can harm tourism sector. Hall (2004) says that political stability and safety are prerequisites for a healthy tourism in country, the world faced a downstream in tourism economy since 2000-01 and developing countries are more effected, whereas Europe and U.S.A is still the most visited place in world. Terrorism in Greece, Turkey and conflict in between Egypt, Israel, Lebanon and others have a negative impact on tourism. Other nations of the region is also effected by the disturbanc e in region, they are facing a decline in tourism sector. As told above that developing nations are more hurt from this political violence and security threats to tourism sector, it took them years to correct their image in front of world. Huge loss in foreign revenues and decline in their gross domestic product is hurting them badly. So few steps are requires to save this peaceful sector from violence and disturbance. Dinah Payne et al. (1996) creates an ethical model for tourism industry that it is the largest and fastest growing industry in the world; it contributes much to GDP of country. Local community and environment is mostly kept outside from planning and management around the world. Local public should be included in the decision making and then it will helpful to all other factors in the tourism industry i.e. justice, integrity, competence and utility are the four main pillars that can help to create codes of ethics. Ethics is required in tourism sector to make it move at smooth pace and this is basic factor that is helpful in tourism. Research shows the absence of ethics from the tourism industry, environment, community tourists and employees are the main factors that are required to enhance them more in tourism sector. The more will be the ethics the more will be the public and tourists interaction. Few suggestions are that local public should not be ignored, they should be more hospit able to tourists, they must save environment from destruction and list goes on. Codes should be followed in nice manner and that will be beneficial for the public and to tourism sector of country. So this ethics is much needed factor today in tourism industry to make it more attractive and peaceful.

Dynamic Stability :: essays research papers

To keep up with today’s volatile marketplace, an organization should be able to adapt to its environment so that it is able to stay competitive. In order to accomplish the often times difficult task of continuous growth, in all its facets an organization has to plan and be prepared to change in the ever evolving business world.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Changes have been documented to have caused organization chaos, initiative overload and in some instances, complete collapse of organizational structure. One option to overcome the uncertainty of organizational changes is to develop a plan that implements the concept of Dynamic Stability. Dynamic stability could be defined as continual but relatively small change efforts that involve reconfiguration of existing practices and business models rather than inventing new ones. An organization will be able to achieve dynamic stability more easily through establishing the concept of tinkering, kludging and pacing. The practice of tinkering involves finding new applications for your products, or accumulating all your untapped resources to develop new products. Tinkering is often quicker and less of a financial burden than kludging. Kludging is basically tinkering but on a larger scale and often involves the combination of external and internal resources. Thus, it is often a financial drain to the organization as it involves tremendous effort and time. As for pacing, it is the concept of timing changes at the most critical intervals in order to prevent destabilization of the organization. Although pacing will not lead to any direct financial burden, it is crucial as it could make or break an organization. Some of the most successful adopters of dynamic stability stress the importance of four operating guidelines; rewarding shameless borrowing, appointing a chief memory officer, tinkering and kludging internally first, and finally hiring generalist. First, rewarding shameless borrowing exemplifies the concept of imitating before innovating in order to reduce the time and cost of organizational change. Second, appointing a chief memory officer provides the organization with a historical journal of an organization’s activities in order to prevent past mistakes from occurring again. Another important operational guideline would be to tinker and kludge internally before outsourcing to increase the control of dynamic stability.

Barilla Spa Case Report

Executive Summary As per our conversation last week I would like to revisit the idea originally brought to life by Brando Vitali before he was promoted to head one of our company’s new divisions overseas. In order to address the issue which will be a direct result of introduction of JIT Distribution system, I would like to present the issues and my recommendations to you before our meeting with Marconi’s executives to discuss JITD proposal.As the meeting is scheduled for the of November I would like to hear your thoughts on JITD before the end of this month so I can make appropriate changes to address any issues you might foresee as a direct result of our proposal. The decision to adopt the Just-in-Time Distribution will most likely be met with our sales and marketing team’s resistance to change. Our old-fashioned distribution system has been nurtured since the early development of our channels of distribution.Promotions and advertising were key to our success of achieving a certain level of trust within our Supply Chain both internally and externally. I recommend a staged implementation of the JITD to allow our staff to adapt to our new philosophy. Our distribution networks could become more efficient rather than being all about relationships based on pushing the product out of our facilities. It appears that our Supply Chain executives are not looking for ways to reduce waste within our distribution channels as we are not even clear on how we measure our success.Applying Lean principles to our Supply Chain is misleading to our staff as they think their job security is on the line. This is met with internal resistance that needs to be addressed before we can communicate the advantages and benefits of JITD to our external distribution networks. I believe that Vitali’s approach will fit our new Supply Chain management strategy of Just-in-Time Distribution which will allow us to ship products as needed, rather than building enormous st ock to deal with volatile demand patterns.We need to break down the silos and secrecy of our distribution processes to our customers to allow for more efficient channels of distribution. A more transparent approach with fewer layers along the way will allow for a much more efficient Supply Chain. Working closely with our distributors will allow us to reduce our own inventory and manufacturing costs along the way. We also need to consider our own forecasting systems to built the trust within our channels of distribution.Scheduled monthly meeting will allow for an open dialogue between various groups that might be affected by this implementation. I believe that open lines of communication both internally and externally will contribute to the ultimate success of JITD implementation. We will have to address issues as they come up to ensure the peace of mind of those who will be affected the most. We need to be more flexible to address problems and bottle necks of our distributors as tha t would be crucial to success of JITD.The main idea we need to communicate across our Supply Chain is that JITD would allow us to eliminate waste and get rid of extra layers which our in the way of addressing our issue of volatile demand patters which result in stockouts. Giorgio Maggali, MBA, SCMP Director of Materials Management Barilla Fresh Products Group October 16, 2012 Barilla Spa Case Study Issue Identification As the decision maker in this case I believe that the main issue presented in this case study is resistance to change.To be more specific, DO’s (Organized Distributors) resistance to adopt a new Just-in-Time distribution (JITD) system which would replace the old-fashioned distribution system used by Barilla’s Supply Chain traditionally. This traditional distribution system has always been viewed as a successful one, as it worked for everyone within the channels of distribution supplying dry products to supermarket chains and independent supermarkets. The re was a certain level of trust achieved between the marketing group, sales reps and buyers who are a part of the Supply Chain built around trade promotions.DO’s expectations of frequent trade promotions were considered the only means to cost reduction during the â€Å"canvass† periods where distributors were able to buy as much product as desired to meet current and future needs. This is a well nurtured traditional system which took a lot of years to develop. Environmental and Root Cause Analysis Approximately 65% of Barilla’s dry products were supplied through outside distributors to supermarket chains and independent supermarkets who would eventually get the product into the hands of the ultimate user.Distributors would receive their product from one of the two Barilla’s central distribution centers (CDCs) where movement of product would be assessed based on its category which would be either â€Å"dry† or â€Å"fresh†. Barilla maintained different distribution systems for its dry and fresh products due to their differences in perishability and retail service requirements. Brando Vitali’s JITD proposal focused solely on dry products sold through Barilla’s distributors who I am going to examine. There is an industry culture around the supply and demand of Barilla products.Internal and external politics are at the root cause of the resistance to change around the distribution channels. There are issues that Barilla needs to address internally before the idea of JITD can come to life externally. Barilla’s sales and marketing personnel have expressed a range of concerns because this new philosophy could potentially cost some staff and executives their jobs from the bottom to the top of the sales organization as it is developed further. Sales executives are clinging to the idea of promotion based strategy which the old-fashioned distribution system is based around.This is not a good sign as efforts t o reduce costs should be made from all aspects of the Supply Chain Management. Executives should be concerned with efficiency of their supply chains from different tiers of suppliers all the way thru different tiers of their customers until the product reaches its ultimate user. Barilla executives are not looking for ways to reduce waste within their distribution channels as it’s not even clear how they measure success of their sales force. Barillas distribution network is only based around relationships, not necessarily around efficiency of their supply chain.They should be looking at ways to eliminate waste, even if it means â€Å"leaning out† their sales force and only keeping those who truly perform well. Staff will always resist change as it is uncertainty that scares everyone when new ideas are introduced within an organization, especially if it might put their job security on the line. Once the internal issues are addressed and the new philosophy starts taking p recedence they can effectively communicate JITD to their DO channels. Sales reps would be successful at communicating the ideas and benefits of JITD system to the buyers of the Organized Distributors.Those buyers would then facilitate the flow of this information from the bottom to the top of the organization before a meeting can take place with Marconi and other DOs. Alternatives and/or Options Giver the current situation, I believe there are only two options to consider here. First one is to remain status quo and run the risk of stockouts as the effect of fluctuating demand which due to variation in demand leads to cost increases. The other option would be to embrace the new philosophy of JITD internally and communicate it further down the supply chain to the DOs.Brando Vitali had it right all along with the idea he referred to as Just-in-Time Distribution (JITD) which was modelled after the renowned â€Å"Just-in-Time† manufacturing concept. His philosophy was to consider JITD as a selling tool rather that a threat to sales. Vitali’s view was that as a supply chain we should focus on demand from end user as that is the supply we trying to address at the time it’s required. In order to effectively address the issues of fluctuating demand we need to be able to respond to unexpectedly high demand from the end-consumer and the quickest way to do that would be to eliminate as many layers as possible.Additional inventories to dampen fluctuations costs money, costs of maintaining certain service levels should also be taken into consideration. Rather than filling distributors demand, according to their planning department, we should be looking at distributors data directly and only send what is needed rather than supply distributors with inventory they can hold to anticipate demand swings. By doing so, we would be able to improve operations for ourselves and our customers if we were responsible for determining the quantities and delivery schedu les.This will allow us to further reduce costs as transportation could be handled by our CDCs based on sales volume variations. Recommendation and Implementation I recommend the JITD system as it will address the stockouts issues we’re currently experiencing as the effect of fluctuating demand. Our distributors already carry too much inventory (see Exhibit 13) which doesn’t resolve the stockouts issues we’re seeing despite the fact that they are holding a couple of weeks inventory.We should be able to improve operations for our distributors if we were allowed to be responsible for determining quantities and delivery schedules based on end users demand. This would allow us to ship product as per demand required rather than trying to manufacture stock large enough to supply both of our facilities. Furthermore we would be able to reduce our own distribution, inventory and manufacturing costs and pass those savings onto our customers if we didn’t have to worr y about volatile demand patterns.Ultimately this will work the same way it does with Barilla sales representatives assisting with setting up in-store promotions analyzing competitive information including competitor’s prices, stockouts and new product additions. This would be effective because no one knows our product better than we do. If our sales reps are allowed at distribution facilities, they would be able to assist, gather and exchange a lot of valuable information about our needs and those of our DOs. The more we know about each other’s business the better off our Supply Chain will be.The fewer layers we have, the quicker we can get our product to our ultimate customers; reducing our own inventory and manufacturing costs along the way. We’ll have to improve our own forecasting systems of course as it is imperative to our business that our distributors have that extra confidence in our abilities. Monitor and Control This sort of an idea would require a lo t of back and forth communication both internally and externally. Cross functional teams would be required to address issues and concerns which might arise from this sort of implementation.The whole process should be done in stages to allow staff to adapt to the changes gradually. Keeping everyone informed would be key as the only way to reassure staff and address uncertainty would be to educate them on pros on cons of the system being brought to life. Regularly scheduled monthly meetings are an absolute must to address issues as they arise. New KPI’s should be clearly communicated to the sale reps. Our reps should be clear on all of the aspects of JITD implementation as they would play an important role of facilitating the flow of information down the Supply Chain.Once DOs are up to speed on JITD, a simulation should be considered with external distributors to demonstrate the benefits of the new distribution system once it is implemented. Inviting DO representatives to see o ur manufacturing facilities and addressing their concerns with solutions would go along way on establishing rapport and strengthening relationships. Probing and addressing bottle necks of our distributors with JITD would also be beneficial to everyone as our ability to eliminate wastes and get rid of extra layers would reduce costs across the Supply Chain.

Free Essays on The Juice In Sports

The Juice in Sports There has been a controversy for many years in sports. Athletes have always wanted to get that little extra boost in energy. They want to become a bigger and much stronger person. The logical thing would be to go to the gym, and work out like everybody else does. Some athletes think that they can get away with doing other things, such as energy booster, muscle gainers, and other drinks that boost energy. For many years athletes have been taking illegal drugs and been getting away with too. Now there have been investigations for all the illegal drugs. Athletes have been becoming more uptight with this situation. The media has been playing a big part in all of the fiasco. They want to interview and ask all of these questions to the big name players about illegal drugs, and steroids. Of course, all of the players are going to deny that they have been taking them. So the media will keep hounding them, and stucking them until they come out and say that they did take steroids. Everybody k now that an athlete will not tell the world that he or she has been taking steroids, or illegal drugs. If they did, it would send a message to all of the athlete’s fans saying that it is okay to take illegal drug because I am taking them. When everybody knows that all of those types of drugs are bad for your body, and your mind. It is unhealthy, and defiantly not a safe thing to do. That’s why all of these types of substances are banded from all types of sports. People want athletes to do what they do at a normal, and level playing field. There are some people out there that think steroids are not bad for you. Most of them want to prove that all of these types of drugs are bad, and should not be used in any level of sports. There has been controversy over the year’s weather or not athletes have been using steroids. This year it has finally reached a peak. In Major League Baseball, the players union went to the Supreme Court in... Free Essays on The Juice In Sports Free Essays on The Juice In Sports The Juice in Sports There has been a controversy for many years in sports. Athletes have always wanted to get that little extra boost in energy. They want to become a bigger and much stronger person. The logical thing would be to go to the gym, and work out like everybody else does. Some athletes think that they can get away with doing other things, such as energy booster, muscle gainers, and other drinks that boost energy. For many years athletes have been taking illegal drugs and been getting away with too. Now there have been investigations for all the illegal drugs. Athletes have been becoming more uptight with this situation. The media has been playing a big part in all of the fiasco. They want to interview and ask all of these questions to the big name players about illegal drugs, and steroids. Of course, all of the players are going to deny that they have been taking them. So the media will keep hounding them, and stucking them until they come out and say that they did take steroids. Everybody k now that an athlete will not tell the world that he or she has been taking steroids, or illegal drugs. If they did, it would send a message to all of the athlete’s fans saying that it is okay to take illegal drug because I am taking them. When everybody knows that all of those types of drugs are bad for your body, and your mind. It is unhealthy, and defiantly not a safe thing to do. That’s why all of these types of substances are banded from all types of sports. People want athletes to do what they do at a normal, and level playing field. There are some people out there that think steroids are not bad for you. Most of them want to prove that all of these types of drugs are bad, and should not be used in any level of sports. There has been controversy over the year’s weather or not athletes have been using steroids. This year it has finally reached a peak. In Major League Baseball, the players union went to the Supreme Court in...

The Summer of Soundness

The Summer of Soundness The rain hadn't stopped in three weeks and it seemed like the endless trek through the field would never end. As the morning dew soaked the bottom of my pants, I remembered the fun summers when I would awake well past dawn and go outside and play by the creek in my shorts. But it was now different, even if I wanted to wear my shorts, my legs would become mangled and disfigured from cuts and insect bites from being outside working in the indigenous wilderness. The heat was unbearable most of the times we were out, and I could remember the long cold days of winter; the fun season in which there was no need to wake early or work long days. The days were more enjoyable as I looked forward to holidays like my birthday, Christmas, and New Years where I could sleep in and spend the days playing with my new toys and cousins that I hadn't seen in a year since the last annual encounter.AmerikarBut summer holidays were different. They were just another day to awake early to that morning dew tha t left my feet wet the rest of the day. Every day was the same. Maybe an alteration in the menu for lunch, but even lunch on the tailgate of the truck can be monotonous at times. It wasn't until late in the season that I found out that there was a reason for all this work and turmoil; a motivation for which most 14 year old boys, destined to become men, never learn.Dave stood much higher than me at the time. At times I wondered when I would reach his height. He was like an old, matured oak tree to me, and I was the newly fallen acorn that admired the strength...

Panama Papers

Panama Papers HUGE LEAK OF INFORMATION REVEALS WHAT WORLDS ELITE WANTS TO HIDE Tax evasion in the form of offshore accounts and companies has been relatively common among the wealthy elite for a long time. The Panama Papers have revealed the extent of the corruption involved. The law firm and corporate services provider Mossack Fonseca has been protecting its clients’ information for a long time, and there has been a tremendous offshore records leak as of late. The massive leak of documents that have come to be known as the Panama Papers, because Mossack Fonseca is based in Panama, have revealed that the world’s wealthy elite has been evading taxation and committing fraud to a degree that has stunned the whole world. These papers have provided authorities with information on 214,488 offshore actors. FINANCIAL REWARDS ARE THE ONLY WAY TO GAIN EMPLOYEE LOYALTY The People Implicated by the Panama Papers The Panama Papers are truly shocking in terms of their scope. There are 11.5 million records here, and they are full of the accounts of illegal activities of billionaires, drug traffickers, politicians, professional athletes, and celebrities. Football player Lionel Messi and famous actor Jacki Chan are among their ranks. There are at least 128 public officials and politicians involved, including the king of Saudi Arabia, six members of the House of Lords in the United Kingdom, and the prime ministers of Pakistan and Iceland. More than two hundred people with American addresses alone have shown up in these documents. In many cases, the families of politicians were involved, such as the children of the Azerbaijan president. At least 33 of the people and companies that have been implicated have been involved with terrorist organizations, rogue nations, or drug lords. One bitterly ironic facet of the scandal is the fact that public leaders who have become famous for trying to end corruption have also been involved. Chinese leader Xi Jinping’s family is connected to the documents, as is the father of British Prime Minister David Cameron. It is possible that some of these people are victims of circumstances and that they have not benefited from the shady dealings of their families, but it is equally possible that they partly managed to get away with what they did because it was through their family members. It does seem that a great deal of these people have been using trusted individuals to take the risk when it comes to laundering money for them, particularly people like President Putin. At this point in the scandal, some of the people accused or involved with those who were accused are coming forward. Overall, they have been trying to weasel out of their responsibilities. Vladimir Putin has said that the allegations were just designed to discredit the people involved and cause instability in Russia. The Icelandic prime minister has resigned over this scandal, and this scandal may change Iceland’s public image for a long time. HOW HUMAN DIGNITY IS VALUED WITHIN THE ACADEMIC SPHERE Mossack Fonseca’s Involvement In an International Corruption Scandal Up until recently, Mossack Fonseca was an obscure corporate service provider and law firm that was located in Panama but with a few dozen branches and offices throughout the world. It is the fourth largest offshore law firm in the world, but it never really rose to prominence in the general public consciousness. Today, this is a law firm and corporate service provider that is going to go down in history as being one of the most infamous and corrupt organizations in the world. There are lots of documents to go through that will illuminate exactly what Mossack Fonseca did for their clients. However, overall, they worked to keep a huge amount of information related to their clients’ financial records secret. They have removed paper records and erased electronic records in the wake of potential legal troubles for their clients. They backdate documents in order to help their clients cheat in financial transactions. In fact, clients have actually paid them to backdate documents, so there is no doubt that many of these clients knew about this practice and actively encouraged it. Law firms are allowed to give their clients a high degree of confidentiality, but it is safe to say that Mossack Fonseca has abused that privilege in every way. The International Community Responds to the Panama Offshore Records Leak The Panama Papers scandal is shaping up to be one of the defining moments of the twenty-first century. The international community has jumped on it. Journalists all around the world are working together in order to investigate Mossack Fonseca more thoroughly. This issue has managed to bring journalists together in a way that was completely unprecedented. Law enforcement officials from all over the world are launching their own investigations into Mossack Fonseca and everyone connected to the law firm. Brazil has been particularly active when it comes to uncovering the scandal and bringing the people responsible to justice. They are investigating former president Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva and current president Dilma Rousseff may lose her position as a result of this scandal. Employees at the Brazilian office of Mossack Fonseca have been arrested, and Brazil is continuing to respond to this problem. Other countries that have Mossack Fonseca offices are launching more of their own investigations. ACADEMIC INTELLECTUAL IN POLITICS This scandal has tremendous implications for people all around the world. High London property prices have been linked to the fact that these wealthy people have been able to buy up the best properties in the area while evading the local taxes and using cached wealth. Some people have discussed this issue in terms of the Great Recession, wondering about the link between ongoing economic troubles and the Panama Papers. Of course, the scandal has also revived the old debate about privacy and access to information in a technological society, with some people raising concerns about the broader implications about the leak and not just the results of the leak. Other sources are celebrating the incident as an example of a new form of activism that is only possible in the Information Age, and which will stop the rich and the powerful from guarding all of their ignoble secrets. The situation raises all sorts of questions about the amount of wealth that has been siphoned away from governments all around the world as a result of all of this offshore tax evasion. Norway, Spain, Germany, Australia, and France are all looking into the issue from the taxation perspective, partly in the hopes of recovering some of the money that their respective governments are owed. There is no telling how all of the recovered wealth might affect the economy, or whether the costs of the investigation are going to counteract all of the potential financial benefits.

How Christians Belief about Jesus Guides them to Confront Evil Essay

How Christians Belief about Jesus Guides them to Confront Evil - Essay Example In Romans chapter twelve verse seventeen, Christians are told; â€Å"repay no one evil for evil, but give thought to do what is honorable in the sight of all† (Rom 12: 17). When abiding by this command, in real life, Christians choose to forgive and forget. Take an example of this situation. Jane and Catherine have been friends since childhood. They live together and share expenses. They contribute the same amount to pay rent, do some shopping and buy other household items. One time, the two decided that it was time for them to live separate lives. To help each other, they agreed to buy the household items in two phases, using the money they had saved. Jane was to receive the first batch, and Catherine the last. This, however, never happened since Jane bought the first batch and left with all the money to an unknown location. This is a painful experience for Catherine, and naturally, she may feel the urge to revenge. The Christian way, however, advocates for forgiveness. They use so many of Jesus’ teachings and others from the Bible to justify forgiveness. In this case, they could argue, that the â€Å"wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Jesus Christ, our Lord (Romans 6:23).† This is according to Romans chapter six verse twenty-three. If one is a believer in Christ, he or she should refrain from acting against his teachings. Doing so is a sin, and that means death. Evil is not only through revenge. Evil is multi-faceted and dealing with it is also complex.

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

Phylogeny - Research Paper Example According to recent studies involving molecular analysis of 18S rRNA/DNA, paraphyly was evident in Porifera. It showed that Calcarea (calcareous sponges) appear to have closer affinities to other metazoans than fellow poriferans the siliceous sponges (both Hexactinellida and Demospongiae) which inevitably showed a great amount of radiation between these two groups (Adams, McInerney and Kelly 34). These new findings actually go a long way in supporting earlier calls for the subdivision of the phylum into two. More empirical data on molecular analysis in particular of 18S rRNA/DNA was provided which showed that there is a stronger affinity between calcareans and ctenophorans than that which is between calcareans and other poriferans. Poriferans (sponges) have always been regarded as the basal living metazoans that are monophyletic as far as phylogenetic studies are concerned. The various relationships of organisms at the metazoan tree base remain largely unknown despite the fact that n ew trends of triploblast systematics are emerging which provides a clear picture of the lineage. According to previously done classifications, these basal metazoan organism have been put in different relationships using several markers except one relationship; monophyly. Earlier analyses of the basal metazoans (sponges, placozoans, cnidarians and ctenophores) have almost unanimously agreed that cnidarians and ctenophores have more close ties or relations with triploblasts than they have with the sponges (poriferans) (Hooper and Willenz 11). In traditional phylogenetic schemes the ACANTHOCEPHALA, ENTOPROCTA, GASTROTRICHA, GNATHOSTOMULIDA, KINORHYNCHA, NEMATODA, NEMATOMORPHA, PRIAPULIDA and ROTIFERA were grouped together as aschelminths or pseudocoelomates. Discuss why we no longer support a taxon of ASCHELMINTHES and discuss how those phyla are now grouped. Aschelminthes was used to refer to assemblage of polyphyletic meiofaunal sized animals which included several phyla. However the legitimacy of Aschelminthes as a taxon was questioned on the basis of lack of morphological as well as molecular evidence. Currently, these organisms have been declassified into separate phyla. It is sometimes useful to use the term Aschelminthes to refer to all previously organisms that were classified under it. On top of this, it has not been agreed upon whether the formerly known organisms in this group make up a monophyletic group. To complicate matters further, it has not been decided on which phyla to place the Aschelminthes. According to recent morphological studies, the Aschelminthes was described as possibly having two clades (Aguinaldo 490). The two clades are gnathiferans that are hypothesized to contain a newly formed taxon Micrognathozoa while the other clade is Introverta. The second clade of Introverta is thought to be a possible link between Scalidophora and Nematoida. There is a possible remote relation between the introvertans and the panarthropods but for the gna thiferan clade, it has not yet been established if it falls within the bilateral organisms for certainty. Both gastrotrichs and chaetognaths phylogenetic placements are equally unsettled owing to unsettled issues in phylogenetic analyses. There has been a relation between Gastrotrichs and Nematoida, gnathiferans and introvertans. However, more close affinity between Gastrotrichs and introvertans than the others has been recognized and led to the formation of a clade called Nemathelminthes or

Exam question Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Exam question - Essay Example In the depression period of 1930s, the economy in majority of the countries was down and cases of massive corruption were reported all over. Canada at this period became centralized in order to consolidate all its resources for easier distribution to everyone and it did this through social welfare system. The Canadians at this point were unemployed and the new government under the rule of Bennet came up with Dominion Unemployment Relief, a legislature meant to provide people with relief as a form of social welfare service (Ferguson 34). Social services like hospital care and insurance, old age services offering people work at minimal wages in relief camps were provided by the government in order to ensure everyone got the services despite the depression looming at this point and unemployment being the order of the day. After the Second World War, people lost their jobs and had nothing more to do until the Korean War. The government therefore as a way to sustain its people continued with the centralized government and also continued with the social welfare it had carried out during the depression period. The family allowance Act ensured that parents received monthly payments to take care of their children. The government had provided social welfare services to its citizens after the depression by giving them employment and this also took place after the Second World War. People still wanted the government to continue with the social welfare program after the Second World War, and this put pressure on the government to continue. Under the governance of Louis St. Laurent which is the one that experienced most of the social pressure, there was initiation of social welfare services like public housing, federal hospital grants and also assistance programs for the disabled in the society. Changes in the pension and old age security and where even the aboriginal people were offered cash benefits were also experienced. The private charities which were offering

Article # 1 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words - 1

Article # 1 - Essay Example There has been a need by health care providers to eliminate duplication, reduce hospitalizations and improve coordination; this has also played a role in escalating cost of financing health care operations. Introduction of point-of-care management case has been crucial in lowering the operational cost in health care facilities as there are few hospital readmissions. Anna (2012) indicates that the strategy has given solid return on investments. Health care providers with strong market heft can negotiate better on high physician services, unlike independent doctors. Despite efforts to conserve energy, there is still a high rate of energy consumption by health care providers, this leads to escalating operational cost because energy is a necessity in the provision of health care (Anna, 2012). Making a personal opinion, the health care facilities will cut down their operational cost by changing their business model to accommodate the changes in technology and the high patient rate. On a rather positive note, there has been a downwards forecast on the spending of Medicare, and this trend will continue for life sciences. Health care operations costs have been on the hike rating the increase at about 50 percent. Partnering by the health care providers would help lower costs and the quality of services (Anna,

Answer the questions in Bold Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 3

Answer the questions in Bold - Essay Example Clinicians can gain recognition for quality care knowledge of conditions like diabetes, heart disease, and stroke. They may also take obtain acknowledgement of quality in other aspects of the profession, such as providing patient-centered, up-to-date practice. Employers can receive accreditation for quality health plan coverage, and a variety of care organizations (HMOs, diabetes care, promotion) can received extensive evaluations that are tailored to the quality standards associated with each area of the medical industry (Pawlson, & Lee, 2010). Patients/consumers are necessarily impacted by virtually every service provided by the NCQA, being the end users of the entire profession. While there are understandably no accreditation or recognition programs available for the public, there are materials and projects that are directly aimed at the general population. The NCQA works directly with the government at both state and federal levels to work toward providing the highest quality of health services throughout the country. In addition, there are a variety of educational resources available through the association that serves to inform the public of the many challenges and improvements associated with the delivery of health care. As should be expected from any organization concerned with quality, the NCQA is regularly and repeatedly evaluated. They use a standard formula of measurement, analysis, improvement, and continual repetition. This system is important for both regulation within the organization, and in the development of quality assurance programs. The measurements used to judge their own performance comes from a variety of national health care indicators. Given the scope of the NCQA, data from throughout the nation is valuable in the assessment process, and may come from a number of sources. The organization conducts its own

Academic Models in Strategic Management Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Academic Models in Strategic Management - Essay Example There are numerous techniques and approaches that support strategic decision making, like PEST, SWOT, portfolio matrixes, life cycles, value chain concepts and many others. The most important aspect of these academic tools is to â€Å"what extent [these tools] enhance or inhibit creative competitive strategy making in organizations† (Clark, 1997, p. 417). Some authors argue (Eilon, 1980, cited by Clark, 1997, p. 418) that there is an absence of strong focus on academic tools because they play a secondary role being â€Å"the means to an end, not an end in [itself]†. Still, the usage of academic business models should not be underrated, because these promote the development of â€Å"strategic thinking in organizations† (Clark, 1997, p. 418). Strategic management tools perform basically a â€Å"support role† (Clark, 1997, p. 418) in the strategic management process. This is so, because academic instruments offer useful insights into the benefits of different strategies and suggest a more systematic approach towards strategy implementation. These tools provide information generation, framework for analysis, also coordination and control mechanisms (Clark, 1997, p. 418). Further on, schemes and visualized models have the benefit of presenting ideas, model relationships and help management identify opportunities and co nvict others about the usefulness of suggested strategies. 2. The use of tools during the different strategic management stages Academic models are visible throughout the strategic management process, from planning and defining of mission and purpose to crafting different strategies and strategy execution and evaluation (Thompson et al, 1996, p. 3). Situation analysis Analysis of the business environment is regarded "as a fundamental part of the strategic management planning process" (Pickton, 1998, p. 102), because academic strategists have realized that environmental changes are constant and unavoidable. A research undertaken by Clark (1997) points out that for many companies environmental analysis includes evaluation of remote environment, meaning PEST analysis; and evaluation of the companies' operating environment, meaning competitors, customers, markets, suppliers and stakeholders. PEST and Porter's five forces model are basically similar tools for environmental audit and are ranked in the top set of tasks in UK (Clark, 1997, p. 423). In an increasingly diverse competition, industries are no longer viewed as isolated independent markets. This makes the application of the Porter's model insufficient, because it "tends to be focused on the single industry or strategic business unit", which means that it's much narrower in its scope. Another largely used academic tool is SWOT analysis, which is regarded as the simplest "easy-to-use technique for getting a quick overview of a firm's strategic situation" (Thompson et al, 1996, p. 92). SWOT is praised for its simplicity and practicality and is widely adopted uncritically (Pickton et al, 1998, p. 101); it underscores the basic principle that strategy must be a good fit between a company's internal capabilities and its external situation. Authors like Farjourn (2002) observe that SWOT is only suitable to a stable and predictable world. Too simplistic adoption of SWOT is reflected by the fact that most academic papers review it as a static strategic framework (Pickton et al, 1998, pp. 102-103); academicians simplify it to a list of factors and fail to conduct further analysis, which limits the usability of the model. Another tool, the value chain concept is a "primary analytical tool of strategic cost analysis"; it identifies costs and value drivers for primary and

Article # 1 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words - 1

Article # 1 - Essay Example There has been a need by health care providers to eliminate duplication, reduce hospitalizations and improve coordination; this has also played a role in escalating cost of financing health care operations. Introduction of point-of-care management case has been crucial in lowering the operational cost in health care facilities as there are few hospital readmissions. Anna (2012) indicates that the strategy has given solid return on investments. Health care providers with strong market heft can negotiate better on high physician services, unlike independent doctors. Despite efforts to conserve energy, there is still a high rate of energy consumption by health care providers, this leads to escalating operational cost because energy is a necessity in the provision of health care (Anna, 2012). Making a personal opinion, the health care facilities will cut down their operational cost by changing their business model to accommodate the changes in technology and the high patient rate. On a rather positive note, there has been a downwards forecast on the spending of Medicare, and this trend will continue for life sciences. Health care operations costs have been on the hike rating the increase at about 50 percent. Partnering by the health care providers would help lower costs and the quality of services (Anna,

Academic Models in Strategic Management Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Academic Models in Strategic Management - Essay Example There are numerous techniques and approaches that support strategic decision making, like PEST, SWOT, portfolio matrixes, life cycles, value chain concepts and many others. The most important aspect of these academic tools is to â€Å"what extent [these tools] enhance or inhibit creative competitive strategy making in organizations† (Clark, 1997, p. 417). Some authors argue (Eilon, 1980, cited by Clark, 1997, p. 418) that there is an absence of strong focus on academic tools because they play a secondary role being â€Å"the means to an end, not an end in [itself]†. Still, the usage of academic business models should not be underrated, because these promote the development of â€Å"strategic thinking in organizations† (Clark, 1997, p. 418). Strategic management tools perform basically a â€Å"support role† (Clark, 1997, p. 418) in the strategic management process. This is so, because academic instruments offer useful insights into the benefits of different strategies and suggest a more systematic approach towards strategy implementation. These tools provide information generation, framework for analysis, also coordination and control mechanisms (Clark, 1997, p. 418). Further on, schemes and visualized models have the benefit of presenting ideas, model relationships and help management identify opportunities and co nvict others about the usefulness of suggested strategies. 2. The use of tools during the different strategic management stages Academic models are visible throughout the strategic management process, from planning and defining of mission and purpose to crafting different strategies and strategy execution and evaluation (Thompson et al, 1996, p. 3). Situation analysis Analysis of the business environment is regarded "as a fundamental part of the strategic management planning process" (Pickton, 1998, p. 102), because academic strategists have realized that environmental changes are constant and unavoidable. A research undertaken by Clark (1997) points out that for many companies environmental analysis includes evaluation of remote environment, meaning PEST analysis; and evaluation of the companies' operating environment, meaning competitors, customers, markets, suppliers and stakeholders. PEST and Porter's five forces model are basically similar tools for environmental audit and are ranked in the top set of tasks in UK (Clark, 1997, p. 423). In an increasingly diverse competition, industries are no longer viewed as isolated independent markets. This makes the application of the Porter's model insufficient, because it "tends to be focused on the single industry or strategic business unit", which means that it's much narrower in its scope. Another largely used academic tool is SWOT analysis, which is regarded as the simplest "easy-to-use technique for getting a quick overview of a firm's strategic situation" (Thompson et al, 1996, p. 92). SWOT is praised for its simplicity and practicality and is widely adopted uncritically (Pickton et al, 1998, p. 101); it underscores the basic principle that strategy must be a good fit between a company's internal capabilities and its external situation. Authors like Farjourn (2002) observe that SWOT is only suitable to a stable and predictable world. Too simplistic adoption of SWOT is reflected by the fact that most academic papers review it as a static strategic framework (Pickton et al, 1998, pp. 102-103); academicians simplify it to a list of factors and fail to conduct further analysis, which limits the usability of the model. Another tool, the value chain concept is a "primary analytical tool of strategic cost analysis"; it identifies costs and value drivers for primary and

Deat Adam Smith and the Wealth of Nations Essay Example for Free

Deat Adam Smith and the Wealth of Nations Essay They would do this not as a means of benefiting society, but in an effort to outperform their competitors and gain the greatest profit. But all this self-interest would benefit society as a whole by providing it with more and better goods and services, at the lowest prices. To explain why all society benefits when the economy is free of regulation, Smith used the metaphor of the â€Å"invisible hand†: â€Å"Every individual is continually exerting himself to find the most advantageous employment for whatever capital he can command. It this own advantage, and not that of society, which he has in mind, but he is in this, as in many other cases, led by an invisible hand to promote and end which was no part of his intention, for the persuade of his own advantage necessarily leads him to prefer that employment which is most advantageous to society. † The â€Å"invisible hand† was Smith’s name for the economic forces that we today would call supply and demand, or the marketplace. He sharply disagreed with mercantilists who, in theft quest for a â€Å"favorable balance of trade,† called for regulation of the economy. Instead, Smith agreed with the physiocrats and their policy of â€Å"laissez faire† letting individual and businesses function without interference from government regulation of private monopolies. In that way, the â€Å"invisible hand† would be free to guide the economy and maximize production. The Wealth of Nations goes on to describe the principal elements of the economic system. In a famous section, Smith turned to the pin industry to demonstrate how the division of labour and the use of machinery increased output. One man draws out the wire, another straights it, a third cuts it, a fourth points it, a fifth grinds it at the top for receiving the head; to make the head requires two or three distinct operations. † Also modern technology has improved the methods by which pins are produced; the principles pertaining to the division of labour remain unchanged. Similarly, other section dealing with the factors of production, money and international trade are as mea ningful today as when they were first written. You can see, therefore, hat Thomas Jefferson’s Declaration of Independence and Adam Smith’s The Wealth of Nations have more in common that a birthday. More importantly, both contain some of the best descriptions of the principles upon which our political and economic systems are based. 2. Comprehension 2. 1. Fill in the gaps with the necessary prepositions. 1. The year of 1776 associates †¦ the signing †¦ The Declaration †¦ Independence. 2. It earned the author the title â€Å"the father †¦ economics,† Smith objected †¦ the principal economic believes †¦ his day. 3. He disagreed †¦ the mercantilists who measured the wealth of a nation †¦ its money supply, and who called †¦ government regulation of the economy †¦ order †¦ promote a â€Å"favorable balance †¦ trade. † 4. It this own advantage, and not that †¦ society, which he has †¦ mind, but he is in this, as †¦ many other cases, led †¦ an invisible hand to promote and end which was no part of his intention, †¦ the persuade †¦ his own advantage necessarily leads him to prefer that employment which is most advantageous to society. 5. †¦ that way, the â€Å"invisible hand† would be free †¦ guide the economy and maximize production. . Also modern technology has improved the methods †¦ which pins are produced; the principles pertaining †¦ the division †¦ labour remain unchanged. 7. Thomas Jefferson’s Declaration †¦ Independence and Adam Smith’s The Wealth of Nations have more †¦ common that a birthday. 8. Both contain some †¦ the best descriptions †¦ the principles †¦ which our political and economic systems are based. 2. 2. Answer the questions to the text. 1. When and where was The Wealth of Nations by A. Smith published? 2. What is a famous nickname of Adam Smith and why? 3. What economic issues did Adam Smith deny? 4. What does a nation’s wealth depend upon according to A. Smith? 5. What was the heart of his economic philosophy? 6. In what way did he explain why society benefits when the economy is free of regulation? 7. What is â€Å"invisible hand† in the text? How do we call it today? 8. What physiocrats’ policy did Smith agree with? 9. What is described in Adam Smith’s â€Å"The Wealth of Nations†? 10. How can the division of labour and the use of machinery increase output according to Smith? 11. Is there anything common in Thomas Jefferson’s Declaration of Independence and Adam Smith’s The Wealth of Nations? 2. 3. Find in the text English equivalents for: , 3. Lexico-grammatical exercises 3. 1. Find out the correspondent definition to the given English business colloquialisms. Give the Ukrainian variants. Make up a dialogue about your business using 5 of the given English business colloquialisms. ColloquialismDefinition All in everything included in the price Big notesa very important person Book of wordsgenerally

Lesser Sac Cystic Lymphangioma: Gastric Outlet Obstruction

Lesser Sac Cystic Lymphangioma: Gastric Outlet Obstruction Cystic Lymhangioma of the Lesser Sac in adult presenting with features of Gastric Outlet Obstruction A Case Report S Suresh Kumar Sri Aurobindo Prasad Das Vikram Kate Running title: Lesser sac cystic lymphangioma causing gastric outlet obstruction Key Words: Abdominal cystic Lymphangioma; Omental Bursa; Outlet Obstruction Article type: Case Report Section (speciality): Surgery- Gastrointestinal Surgery Abstract: Non- Structured (Case Report) ABSTRACT: Background: Cystic lymphangioma is a paediatric benign tumour, occurs commonly in head and neck region. Adult Intraabdominal lymphangiomas are uncommon and only few cases of lesser sac cystic lymphangioma are reported in the literature. Case presentation: We present a case of lesser sac cystic lymphangioma in a 26 year old lady who presented with features of gastric outlet obstruction. Clinical examination of the abdomen revealed 10 x 10 cm firm, non tender, mobile intraabdominal lump in the epigastrium. An upper gastrointestinal endoscopy showed possible external compression at the boy of the stomach. Ultrasound of abdomen demonstrated a multicystic lesion measuring 10.2 X 8 cm, with internal echoes in one locule. Contrast enhanced computed tomography of the abdomen showed a large multiloculated cystic lesion with hyper-dense content in the lesser sac extending up to the left lobe of the liver and indenting the stomach, lesser sac, and upper border of pancreas. On surgical exploration, a 10X8 cm multi cystic lesion with clear fluid was found in the lesser sac very close to the lesser curvature of stomach. The descending branches of left gastric which were found coursing through the cyst were ligated and the cyst was excised in Toto. Histopathological examination of the excised lesion showed features of cystic lymphangioma showing dilated lymphatic vessels with fibro-fatty tissue ingrained in the endothelial lining. Conclusion: Though intraabdominal cystic lymphangiomas are very rare, it should be considered in all atypical cases of gastric outlet obstruction. A reasonable knowledge about these benign lesions will aid in establishing the diagnosis and surgical management. Key Words: Abdominal cystic Lymphangioma; Omental Bursa; Outlet Obstruction Background Lymphagiomas are benign lesions generally occur as a result of lymphatic system malformation and infrequently reported after trauma. 90% of the cases are seen within the first two years of life and symptomatic presentation in adults is very rare. [1] Cystic lymphagiomas commonly involves neck and axilla but can occur anywhere in the body. Though Intraabdominal lymphangioma accounts for Case presentation A 26-year old lady presented to surgical outpatient department with complaints of early satiety, vomiting few hours after food intake and vague fullness of upper abdomen. She also had features of dyspepsia for the past one year. She had developed pain and had a feeling of a mobile lump in the upper abdomen for the past one month. There was no pancreatitis episode before. General physical examination was unremarkable. Clinical examination of the abdomen revealed 10 x 10 cm lump in the epigastrium which was firm in consistency. The lump was non tender, freely mobile and intra-abdominal. Investigations The haemogram and biochemical profiles were within normal limits. An upper gastrointestinal endoscopy was done which showed normal mucosa of stomach with possible external compression at the boy of the stomach. Ultrasound of abdomen was suggestive of a multicystic lesion measuring 10 X 8 cm, with internal echoes in one locule, present superior to pancreas adjacent to the left lobe of the liver. Rest of abdomen was unremarkable. Contrast enhanced computed tomography of the abdomen showed a large multiloculated cystic lesion measuring 10.2 X 8 cm with hyper dense content in some loculi in the lesser sac extending up to the left lobe of the liver and indenting the stomach, lesser sac, and upper border of pancreas with a few branches of left gastric vessels coursing through it. (Figure: 1) Correlating the clinical, USG and CECT abdomen findings a diagnosis of possible lymphangioma was made and the patient was planned for exploratory laparotomy as the symptoms were persisting. Surgical management On surgical exploration, a 10X8 cm multi cystic lesion with clear fluid was found in the lesser sac very close to the lesser curvature of stomach. (Figure: 2) The descending branches of left gastric which were found coursing through the cyst were ligated and the cyst was excised in Toto. (Figure: 3) A drain was placed in lesser sac and abdomen was closed in layers. Outcome and follow- up Postoperative course was uneventful. The drain was removed on the 3nd postoperative day and the patient was discharged on seventh post operative day. Histopathological examination of the excised lesion showed features of cystic lymphangioma showing dilated lymphatic vessels with fibro-fatty tissue ingrained in the endothelial lining. (Figure: 4) Patient was followed up at one month, six months, one year and two year after surgery. On each visit, clinical examination and USG was done which showed no evidence of recurrence. The lady is presently on regular follow up for past 2 years with no evidence recurrence till date. Discussion Intra-abdominal cystic lymphangiomas are uncommon benign tumours that can involve the mesentery, omentum, colon, spleen, pelvis, groin, and retroperitoneum [5, 6]. We had a case of cystic lymphangioma in the lesser sac which is very rare. Cystic lymphangiomas are considered to originate from malformed or malpositioned lymphatic tissue. Factors such as abdominal trauma, inflammatory process, lymphatic obstruction due to radiation therapy or surgery may lead to secondary formation of such tumors. Our patient did not have any of the mentioned inciting factors; the cause was probably congenital which had manifested late in life. Commonly known to present in childhood, lymphagiomas sometimes remain asymptomatic until late adulthood, and are discovered during evaluation of vague and chronic nonspecific symptoms like anorexia, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, and weight loss, which are secondary to mass effect [4]. This was seen in our patient who had early satiety and vomiting after food intake probably due to mass effect and had a vague feeling of mass in the abdomen. Other ways of presentation such as acute abdomen, mimicking acute appendicitis has also been reported [3]. Contrast CT done in our patient revealed multicystic lesion measuring 10.2 X 8 cm, present superior to pancreas, in the lesser sac adjacent to the left lobe of the liver. Cystic lymphangioma usually presents as a large multilocular cystic mass with enhanced walls with multiple thin septa containing uncomplicated fluid on abdominal ultrasonography and contrast enhanced computerized tomography which is very often diagnostic [7]. The differential diagnosis includes cystic lesions of, enteric urogenital or mesothelial origin. Pancreatic pseudocysts from trauma, dermoid cysts or teratomas and cystic degeneration of solid tumours are also to be considered before making this rare diagnosis. Management of intra-abdominal cystic tumours depends on the clinical symptoms, size of the cyst, and the degree of clinical suspicion for malignancy. Imaging usually provides useful information for the planning of treatment. Complete removal of the tumour offers an excellent prognosis and laparoscopic removal of lymphangioma also shown feasible in few reports. We therefore decided to perform a laparotomy and complete excision of the cyst was done. On the other hand, recurrence has been reported in 10% of patients in whom primary resection was incomplete.[9] If the feeding lymphatics are not completely ligated, chylous ascites may also occur. Conclusion: Though intra-abdominal cystic lymphangiomas are very rare, it should be considered in cases of gastric or biliary obstruction where the cause could not be recognized clearly. Reasonable knowledge about these benign lesions will aid in establishing the diagnosis during such instances. Complete surgical excision offers the best chance for cure and should be attempted in all the cases to avoid recurrence. Consent Written informed consent was obtained from the patient for publication of this Case report and any accompanying images. A copy of the written consent is available for review by the Editor of this journal. Competing interests disclosures The authors have no potential or real conflict of interests The authors have no financial support or ties to disclose The authors have no financial or non financial competing interests to declare Authors contributions Suresh Kumar S, Das S A and Kate V diagnosed and managed the case. Suresh Kumar S, Das S A did the literature search. Suresh Kumar S and Das S A collected the images. Suresh Kumar S and Kate V drafted the manuscript. All authors read and approved the final manuscript. References Hanagiri T, Baba M, Shimabukuro T, Hashimoto M, Takemoto H, Inoue A, Sugitani A, Shirakusa T. Lymphangioma in the small intestine: Report of a case and review of the Japanese literature. Surgery Today 1992; 22: 363-367 Roisman I, Manny J, Fields S, Shiloni E. Intra-abdominal lymphangioma. Br J Surg 1989; 76: 485-489 Benjamin HL Tan, Teegan Lim. Cystic lymphangioma of the lesser sac presenting as acute appendicitis: A case report. Cases J. 2008; 1: 147. Massoud Baghai-Wadji, Azadeh JalalKamali, ToorajReza Mirshekari. Cystic lymphangioma of the lesser sac. Can J Surg. 2006; 49: 292. Fernandez Hurtado I, Bregant J, Mulet Ferragut JF, et al. abdominal cystic lymphangioma. Cir Pediatr. 1998 ; 11: 171-3 Chuang-Wei Chen, Sheng-Der Hsu, Chien-Hua Lin, Ming-Fang Cheng, Jyh-Cherng Yu Cystic lymphangioma of the jejunal mesentery in an adult: A case report. World J Gastroenterol 2005; 11: 5084-5086 Angela D. Levy, Vito Cantisani, Markku Miettinen. Abdominal Lymphangiomas: Imaging Features with Pathologic Correlation. AJR 2004; 182: 1485-1491 8. Kenney B, Smith B, Bensoussan AL. Laparoscopic excision of a cystic lymphangioma. J Laparoendosc Surg. 1996; 6: S99-101. 9. Steyaert H, Guitard J, Moscovici J, Juricic M, Vaysse P, Juskiewenski S: Abdominal cystic lymphangioma in children: benign lesions that can have a proliferative course. J Pediatr Surg 1996, 31:677-680. 1

Functions of an OS Platform-(03) :: essays research papers

Functions of an Operating System Operating Systems is a computer program that controls the operation of the hardware of a computer and the execution of programs. The primary functions of an operating system include: 1) Managing and controlling the hardware of the computer, e.g., drivers 2) Interfacing between hardware and software, i.e. how programs and applications use hardware – keyboard, mouse, monitor. 3) Managing memory, i.e., multitasking, multiprocessing and threads 4) Managing and executing applications 5) Diagnosing problems with software and hardware 6) Managing Storage Devices and Files, e.g., NTFS and Netware file system 7) Providing a User Interface Additional Functions of a Network Operating System Where multiple hosts share the workload and resources, but each host executes its own programs 1) Connecting to the Network, e.g., network interface card drivers, communication protocols, and client services. 2) Enabling remote users to access and share resources, and user interfaces to use various share services, e.g., utilities, web access, SMTP. 3) Provide additional security to access shared resources, i.e., authorization (logon) and authorization (resources) services. 4) Provide applications for network use, e.g., Web, SMTP, and DHCP servers. 5) Provide network diagnostics utilities. Types of Network Operating Systems Peer-to-Peer or Workgroup Model Any computer can be a server or a client, or both. Examples of these NOS include Microsoft Networking and Windows 2k Member servers The security system is decentralized, and is stored in the local registry. Practical for networks up 5 to 10 computers with limited sharing and low security requirements. Every server maintains its own security system. this means that you must have a password on each server. Peer-to-Peer or Workgroups Advantages Disadvantages Easy-to-share resources No centralized control over resources Resources are distributed across all computers No centralized account management Little administrative overhead No centralized administration Simple to design No centralized security system Easy to implement Inefficient for more than 20 computers Convienent for small groups in close proximity Security must be configured manually Less expensive or free software, does not require a centralized server Increased training to educate users to use their computer as both a client and a server. Domain (Client/Server) Model The designation of one computer to centralize the administration of shared resources and security. It is generally recommended that a computer would be only used as either as a client or a server, but not both. For example, share files will be stored on the server. Windows NT/2K domain controllers, Active directory and Netware are examples of the client Server model. Client/Server or Domain Model Advantages Disadvantages Centralized resource sharing Significant administrative effort and overhead Functions of an OS Platform-(03) :: essays research papers Functions of an Operating System Operating Systems is a computer program that controls the operation of the hardware of a computer and the execution of programs. The primary functions of an operating system include: 1) Managing and controlling the hardware of the computer, e.g., drivers 2) Interfacing between hardware and software, i.e. how programs and applications use hardware – keyboard, mouse, monitor. 3) Managing memory, i.e., multitasking, multiprocessing and threads 4) Managing and executing applications 5) Diagnosing problems with software and hardware 6) Managing Storage Devices and Files, e.g., NTFS and Netware file system 7) Providing a User Interface Additional Functions of a Network Operating System Where multiple hosts share the workload and resources, but each host executes its own programs 1) Connecting to the Network, e.g., network interface card drivers, communication protocols, and client services. 2) Enabling remote users to access and share resources, and user interfaces to use various share services, e.g., utilities, web access, SMTP. 3) Provide additional security to access shared resources, i.e., authorization (logon) and authorization (resources) services. 4) Provide applications for network use, e.g., Web, SMTP, and DHCP servers. 5) Provide network diagnostics utilities. Types of Network Operating Systems Peer-to-Peer or Workgroup Model Any computer can be a server or a client, or both. Examples of these NOS include Microsoft Networking and Windows 2k Member servers The security system is decentralized, and is stored in the local registry. Practical for networks up 5 to 10 computers with limited sharing and low security requirements. Every server maintains its own security system. this means that you must have a password on each server. Peer-to-Peer or Workgroups Advantages Disadvantages Easy-to-share resources No centralized control over resources Resources are distributed across all computers No centralized account management Little administrative overhead No centralized administration Simple to design No centralized security system Easy to implement Inefficient for more than 20 computers Convienent for small groups in close proximity Security must be configured manually Less expensive or free software, does not require a centralized server Increased training to educate users to use their computer as both a client and a server. Domain (Client/Server) Model The designation of one computer to centralize the administration of shared resources and security. It is generally recommended that a computer would be only used as either as a client or a server, but not both. For example, share files will be stored on the server. Windows NT/2K domain controllers, Active directory and Netware are examples of the client Server model. Client/Server or Domain Model Advantages Disadvantages Centralized resource sharing Significant administrative effort and overhead

That Was Then, This Is Now :: essays papers

That Was Then, This Is Now As I grow older I find myself and my surroundings changing. Many things about my personality and appearance have altered greatly in the past decade. I've observed many of these same changes in my family as well as in my friends. Some of my likes and dislikes of certain things are the same as when I was six years old, but not all. From my love of children and every type of critter to my dependency on my parents, my life has changed. From a very young age I've always loved children. "Mom, can I have a little brother and sister to play with?" was a favorite question of mine. A little bit later I would learn the answer. I would eventually have both. Other mothers often commented on my 'motherly instinct' when it came to my younger siblings. I've always liked the feeling of being able to comfort someone smaller than I am. As a child I loved playing dolls and 'house', always pretending to be the mother. Now I work at a Nursery watching over real children. From my love of children derived my desire to become a pediatrician. Along with my love of children is my love of animals. A new pet every week was a regular around the Moody House. My friends were always amazed by the array of creatures crawling around my room and shimmying up the curtains. One week I'd have eight pet chickens and a guinea pig and the next it was a turtle and bunny rabbit. As I grow older I become a little less interested in having as many pets as possible and a little more content with just the ordinary dog and my pet Iguana. All throughout my life I have depended on my parents. As a young child I searched eagerly in the eyes of my mom and dad for the reassurance I needed whenever I did something new. Holding tightly onto my dad's hand as we crossed the street I trusted he would always take me safely across. In the same way I have always trusted they would guide me through life safely. Although I no longer hold their hands when I cross the street I know they are always there. I've grown into my own person, depending more on myself rather than searching for reassurance through them.

Filipinos and the Reproductive Health Bill Essay

The Reproductive Health Bill – more commonly known as the RH Bill – is one of the most controversial bills that are being discussed today. It was only recently, however, that much attention had been directed towards it. The implementation of laws provisioning almost the same contents as the RH Bill today dates back in the late 1960’s during the reign of former President Ferdinand Marcos. At that time, Family Planning was adopted by the government purely for the purpose of population reduction towards the alleviation of poverty, as is the government’s commitment to population control stated in The 1973 Constitution, â€Å"It shall be the responsibility of the state to achieve and maintain population levels conducive to the national welfare† (Likhaan and ARROW 17). Unfortunately, when the Marcos administration was replaced by the Aquino administration, the ground for the government Family Planning Program became shaky. It was attempted to be abolished twice but was saved through its transfer from the Department of Social Welfare to the Department of Health in 1988 due to both local and international pressures (17). During the Ramos administration, the Philippine approach towards population control shifted from the previous population control framework to the reproductive health approach (Likhaan and ARROW 17). This was a result of the Philippine participation to the International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD) held in Cairo, Egypt (17). It was also under this regime that Secretary of Health, Dr. Juan Flavier funded the purchase of contraceptives and launched an anti-AIDS campaign heavily featuring condoms despite fervent opposition from the rulers of the Catholic Church (17). A legacy that perhaps he passed on to his successor Dr. Carmencita Reodica who was the brain behind the implementation of an Integrated Reproductive Health Program within the DOH (17). As another change in administration took place however, the reproductive health programs stated above were abolished and while the new regime have tried to present newer programs for the improvement of Philippine reproductive health, none were implemented due to the ousting of Estrada which then brought us the Macapagal-Arroyo administration (Likhaan and ARROW 17-18). It is said that it was in this administration that government reproductive health programs previously implemented by former administrations â€Å"regressed† (18). Two big events happened during this time. First was the banning of the emergency contraceptive pill called Postinor which raised a torrent of rallies and protests from health and women’s NGOs and the second was Arroyo’s announcement that she would veto the proposed Reproductive Health Bill at that time even if it were passed because she believes that it is â€Å"a pro-abortion bill†(18). The struggle for the passage of the RH Bill, however, did not stop there. As the current regime led by Pres. Benigno Aquino, Jr. took over, the fire brought by this controversial debate has been lit once more. The bill has undergone a few revisions and the anti-RH and pro-RH factions have continued their unceasing debate. The anti-RH faction, supported by the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines (CBCP), other so-called Pro-Life Organizations, and some famous personalities like Manny Pacquiao, argue that the bill is anti-Life, anti-Poor, unconstitutional and anti-God. The pro-RH faction – supported by Health and Women NGOs, International Organizations, and also various personalities like Lea Salonga and Sen. Mirriam Santiago – on the other hand, believes that the RH Bill is pro-Life, pro-Poor, pro-Choice, constitutional and NOT anti-God. On my part, I stand by the pro-RH faction. The Reproductive Health Bill is an important step towards the improvement of the quality of life of every Filipino, and I believe that it is the government’s responsibility to allow its people to take this crucial step forward. In what follows, I will explain why I think that the Reproductive Health Bill should be passed. Women Empowerment Many Filipinos are unaware of the real purpose behind the Reproductive Health Bill, or to be more exact, The Responsible Parenthood, Reproductive Health, and Population and Development Act of 2011. Most usually, debates between the anti-RH faction and the pro-RH faction end up with the topic of overpopulation and whether decreasing the population growth rate would solve most of the problems plaguing the Filipino nation. I myself had been misled by these recurrent arguments and thought that perhaps the point behind this bill was to decrease the rate by which our population grows. Further examination of the bill however proved me wrong. The purpose of the legislators in presenting this bill was not to decrease the population growth rate of Filipinos; rather it is to empower them most especially its most vulnerable sector, the Filipino women. Reproductive Health, as defined by the World Health Organization (WHO), is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being that implies that people are able to have a responsible, satisfying and safe sex life and that they have the capability to reproduce and the freedom to decide if, when and how often to do so. Also, they added, it implies the presence of the right of access to appropriate health care services that will allow women to go through pregnancy and childbirth safely (WHO). Unfortunately for the Philippines, the lack of a comprehensive reproductive health law has drawn its toll on women producing a high Maternal Mortality Rate (MMR) of 162 per 100,000 live births (Pernia, et.al.). This means that about 11 women die every day during childbirth (NSO, 2006). Another effect of the absence of a comprehensive law that offers effective reproductive health care services is an Infant Mortality Rate (IMR) of 25 per 1000 infants (Dizon). In other words, there is a total of 62, 000 infant deaths every year, or 169 deaths every day (Dizon). Aside from those, there is an estimated 473,400 women who have abortion every year, 90% of them done by married women, producing a rate of 27 abortions out of 1000 women aged 15-44 years old (Pangalangan, Juarez, et.al). Also, 78,900 women among those who had abortion are hospitalized due to post-abortion complications (Juarez, et.al). What is sad about this is that all this deaths and complications could have been prevented and attended to if women were provided with proper and sufficient family planning and health care services. The Responsible Parenthood, Reproductive Health and Population and Development Act of 2011 aims to protect women from the aforementioned complications of having no readily available reproductive health and family planning services (HB 4244). In Section 5 of House Bill 4244, entitled Midwives for Skilled Attendance, the bill ensures the availability of full time, skilled and properly trained birth attendants for women at a ratio of one (1) birth attendant per a hundred and fifty (150) deliveries per year (HB 4244). Also in Section 6 of the same bill, each province and city, assisted by the DOH, would establish or upgrade hospitals with sufficient and qualified personnel, facilities and supplies that would enable them to provide efficient and effective emergency obstetric care (HB 4244). Aside from that, private and non-government reproductive health care service providers – including but not limited to gynecologists and obstetricians – are mandated in House Bill 4244â₠¬â„¢s Section 22 to provide at least 48 hours annually of reproductive health care services which involves information and education, and rendering medical services free of charge to indigent and low income patients, especially to pregnant adolescents (HB 4244). However, these are not the only provisions that the Reproductive Health Bill offers women and their children. In Section 8 of House Bill 4244, the government ensures that a Minimum Initial Service Package (MISP) for reproductive health – includes maternal and neonatal health care kits and services defined by the DOH – would be ensured for women in crisis situations such as disasters (e.g.; earthquakes, flood) and humanitarian crises (e.g.; famines, epidemics). The MISP will become a part of the initial response of government units and national agencies at the onset of crises and emergencies (HB 4244). Also, in House Bill 4244’s Section 14 maximum benefits as provided by PhilHealth programs would be given to serious and life threatening reproductive health conditions such as AIDS, breast and reproductive tract cancers, obstetric complications and other similar conditions. Aside from maternal health care services, the bill also promises to provide a full range of modern family planning methods to be available in all accredited health facilities which, for poor patients, shall be fully covered by PhilHealth Insurance and the government on a no balance billing (Section 7, HB 4244). These provisions of the bill are important in protecting women from the risks brought by pregnancy and from the difficulties caused by unplanned pregnancies. According to a research report published jointly by the Guttmacher Institute and the United Nations Fund for Population Activities (UNFPA): Better timing and spacing of births can reduce complications related to pregnancy and delivery, and improve the health of women and their infants (Singh S, et.al). Also, according to this same research, if contraceptive needs for women are met sufficiently, the number of induced abortions would decline by 70% in the developing world (Singh S, et.al).   Providing women with these reproductive health services also move in accordance to the Magna Carta for Women. In Section 13 of House Bill No. 4273, the law insures women the access to information and services related to their health. This includes maternal care which involves pre-natal and post-natal services that would address a woman’s pregnancy, and the health and nutrition of both the mother and the infant, and legal, ethical, medically safe and effective family planning methods (HB 4273). Despite the many advantages that the Reproductive Health Bill offers to women however, there are still those who desire to hinder the passage of this bill. One of these detractors is the CBCP who claims that the bill is anti-life and unconstitutional. What saddened me however is that in one of their statements, they have summed up choosing to defend the RH Bill as â€Å"choosing death† (Odchimar). I quote: We are at a crossroads as a nation. Before us are several versions of a proposed bill, the Reproductive Health bill or sanitized as a Responsible Parenthood bill. This proposed bill in all its versions calls us to make a moral choice: to choose life or to choose death (Odchimar). Reading this statement caused a moment of irritation which swiftly turned to sadness as I realized how misinformed my fellow Filipinos were. The Reproductive Health Bill is not anti-life; it is, through thorough examination, explicitly pro-Life (Pangalangan, Pernia et.al). The Reproductive Health Bill will not only protect a woman’s right to make a choice but also protect her life and the life of her child. Providing quality health care services to women will help fight the complications of pregnancy and even help avoid induced abortions (Pernia, et.al, Pangalangan, Lagman). Choosing the Reproductive Health Bill would never be equal to choosing death. In this same statement by the CBCP, they also shared one of the reasons why they specifically object to the RH Bill: Advocates also assert that the RH Bill empowers women with ownership of their own bodies. This is in line with the post-modern spirit declaring that women have power over their own bodies without the dictation of any religion. How misguided this so-called â€Å"new truth† is (Odchimar)! That women own their bodies is subject to each and their own beliefs. I myself, even as a woman, do not believe that I own this body with which I move and act. I acknowledge that this body of mine was something given to me by the Lord and therefore his, yet it must also be acknowledged that not all Filipinos share this same belief. First of all, not all Filipinos are Catholics and it is wrong to deprive them of the support they ask of the state simply because the religious leaders of the most prevalent religion disagree with it (Pangalangan, Pernia, et.al). Second, 90% among the 97% who claim that they want the RH Bill to be passed are Catholics which shows how pressing this matter is (Pangalangan). Whether or not our bodies were our own or just borrowed from the Lord, the fact that it needs protection, support and sufficient health services could not be denied. About 60% of Filipinos are dependent on the government for the provision of family planning services and it is the government’s responsibility to make it continuously and readily available for them (Pangalangan). The Reproductive Health Bill will provide women with sufficient, efficient and effective family planning and reproductive health care services. This will not only benefit women but their children as well. It would protect them in many ways and help preserve lives that need not be lost. Family Planning Methods Family Planning allows individuals and couples to anticipate and achieve their preferred number of children and the spacing and timing of their births (WHO). There are many mediums of contraceptives that have been invented and developed through time. Mostly, they are divided into two categories: Natural Family Planning (NFO) methods and Artificial Family Planning (AFP) methods. Natural Family Planning Methods mainly involves determining when a woman is fertile or not and having intercourse during days when fertilization would not occur (IRH). The effectiveness of this method is dependent on many factors however, these include faithful participation between sexual partners, accuracy in predicting the woman’s fertile days and ability to perfectly follow the methods they choose (IRH). Aside from that, there are women, in fact a lot of them, for whom Natural Family Planning methods may not work, considering this, the success rate of NFP methods are comparatively lower than Artific ial Family Planning methods (IRH). Artificial Family Planning Methods are methods that employ external factors. This involves pills, injectables, patches, vaginal rings, implants, Intrauterine devices (IUDs), male and female sterilization, condoms, etc (WHO/RHR). A variation of these methods may work depending on the situation of the women or men involved, however, most of the time the success rates of these methods are fairly higher than NFP methods (WHO/RHR). In the Reproductive Health Bill, a full range of Family Planning (FP) methods would be made available in all accredited health facilities (Section 7, HB 4244). Also, they would be labeled as essential medicines, which means that they would be part of the National Drug Formulary and would be included in the regular purchase of essential supplies of all public hospitals and health units (Section 10, HB 4244). This would help many Filipino families, especially the poor, in achieving only the size of the family they desire (Pernia, et.al). In recent statistics, evidences that the poor prefer smaller families but are incapable of achieving t his because of lack of accessibility of Family Planning Methods have been found (Pernia, et.al). Recently, a survey by the Social Weather Station showed that 97% of Filipinos want to be able to control their fertility and plan their families (Pangalangan). Allowing access to readily available Family Planning Methods would be an efficient response to this call. Aside from that there is good reason for promoting both Natural and Artificial Family Planning methods. In a discussion paper released by the UP School of Economics, they said that: †¦ensuring access to the full range of modern (â€Å"artificial†) FP methods cum appropriate information raises the success rate of achieving the desired family size. Limiting FP options to â€Å"natural family planning (NFP) methods only† fails to address the private and social costs of mistimed and unwanted pregnancies (Pernia, et.al). Providing both Artificial and Natural Family Planning methods would allow for greater success rate in achieving the desired family size of Filipinos. However, this is not the only good effect of Family Planning methods. Some Family Planning methods, when correctly used, may help prevent the transmission of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (WHO). Use of Family Planning methods also reduces occurrences of induced abortions (WHO). This provisioning of FP methods also supports the recognition of the family as an autonomous institution that has the right to found a family in accordance to their desired number and spacing of children (WHO, 1987 Constitution). Despite the advantages of offering both Natural and Artificial methods of Family Planning however, there are those who say that only Natural Family Planning methods should be supported by the bill. This is because, for these anti-RH groups, Artificial Family Planning methods are abortifacients and are unsafe. First of all, there is a big difference between a contraceptive and an abortifacient. To put it in simple terms, a contraceptive is something used to prevent fertilization between a sperm and an egg while an abortifacient is something used to kill an already fertilized egg. Despite my belief that there is no need to elaborate further, I still shall reiterate it: Contraceptive methods are not abortifacients. Second, the provision of family planning metho ds requires counseling with a family planning provider (Magallon). These family planning provider/counselors function to advise a couple of the most appropriate method for their situation and also to screen those who wish to avail of these methods (Magallon). One of the things they require of the couple is information on whether the woman is pregnant or not, or if sexual intercourse happened between them inside a certain period of time (Magallon). If it so happens that sexual intercourse occurred and/or the woman were pregnant, the family planning counselor would either ask them to wait and confirm first if the woman is pregnant or not provide a method of family planning to the woman (Magallon). This they do to avoid any bad effects that a contraceptive might have on an already existing child (Magallon). Another claim against artificial contraceptives, especially of oral contraceptive pills, is that they have been found to be carcinogenic agents in a recent research conducted by the Women’s Health Initiatives and was classified so by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (â€Å"Position Paper on the RH bill†). In all fairness, further research on my side lead me to the conclusion that this information is true. However, while it is true that OCPs are Group 1 carcinogens, it is also true that use of OCPs prevent endometrial and ovarian cancers (Associated Press). Aside from that, I think it is worthy to point out that the dosages used in the studies from which the conclusion was made were, to quote Dr. Steven Goldstein, professor of the New York University Medical Center, â€Å"2  ½ to 4 times higher than the dosages I’m using today in most wo men [referring to the pills she provides her clients with]† (Associated Press). Also, according to director of analytic epidemiology of the American Cancer Society Eugene Calle, the evidence of increase in breast cancer risk is very small and transient, which means that it disappears as soon as the intake of the pills is stopped (Associated Press). Providing Filipinos with both Artificial and Natural Family Planning Methods may have a few disadvantages but I believe that the advantages of these actions outweigh all the cons. If the Reproductive Health Bill is passed, considering its main thrust is promoting full information and providing access to and choice amongst the full selection of family planning methods – whether natural or artificial – more unintended pregnancies would be prevented thus reducing the current MMR of the Philippines and saving the lives of not only women but children as well (Pernia et al.) Effects of the Reproductive Health Bill A lot of effects other than those mentioned before may come from the passage of the Reproductive Health Bill. One of these miscellaneous effects is that it would help reduce the population growth rate which would then produce a sort of chain reaction that would help alleviate poverty especially in the poorest areas here in the country (Alonzo, et.al, Pernia, et.al). This happens because parents who are able to space their children and acquire their desired family size are more capable to bear the cost of raising and educating their children (Pernia, et.al). Once educated, these children would then be able to help raise their families above poverty through work and business (Pernia, et.al). Another effect of the Reproductive Health Bill is it encourages women to exercise their right to choose and their free will (Lagman). Women would be given the chance to make informed choices on matters that affect them the most (Lagman). The promotion of an age-appropriate sex-education program would also help teenagers determine how to act in the face of sexual confusion (Lagman). It will promote â€Å"correct sexual values† and instill both consciousness of the freedom of choice and responsibilities of exercising one’s rights (Lagman). Knowledge on these matters is important because health risks associated with mistimed and unplanned pregnancies are higher for women who become pregnant while still in their adolescent ages (Pernia, et.al). Against all these good effects however, there are those who claim that if the RH Bill would be passed then a so-called â€Å"demographic winter† – inverse triangle population, with the old above and the young below – would occur in the Philippines (â€Å"Position paper on the RH bill†). This, according to some UP Professors of Economics has been greatly exaggerated and could only be considered as a scare tactic that intends to instill fear in people’s minds and which was probably spread by people who do not understand population dynamics â€Å"or worse, who intend to mislead† (Alonzo et al., also cited in Lagman). Conclusion The RH Bill empowers women. It reinforces the people’s freedom to choose and freedom to be informed. It protects not only the sanctity of life but the quality of life that a child will have once he is born. It is pro-life, pro-women and pro-choice. The Reproductive Health bill also aims to protect women from the many complications of pregnancy and childbirth. It also aims to provide better care for every child born. Aside from that, the RH Bill will enable Filipinos to protect themselves better form sexually transmitted diseases such as AIDS. Both Artificial and Natural Family Planning Methods are essential for the implementation of a comprehensive reproductive health law. These methods are scientifically proven safe and though some might have adverse effects, the advantages of these methods outweigh the risks they may present. The Reproductive Health Bill is a bill that allows spouses to plan their families and gain only the children they can provide for. It will help many poor families in investing more for their children and can alleviate poverty even if it cannot make it disappear altogether. The Reproductive Health Bill will also enable the youth to understand their rights and their responsibilities and promote proper sexual values. Understanding all this, I call for the immediate passage of the Reproductive Health Bill for the good of the Filipino nation. Works Cited â€Å"1987 Constitution of the Republic of the Philippines.† The LAWPHiL Project. Arellano Law Foundation, n.d. Web. 5 September 2011. Alonzo Ruperto P., Arsenio M. Balisacan, Dante B. Canlas, Joseph J. Capuno, Ramon L. Clarete, Rolando A. Danao, Emmanuel S. de Dios, Benjamin E. Diokno, Emmanuel F. Esguerra, Raul V. Fabella, Ma. Socorro Gochoco-Bautista, Aleli P. Kraft, Felipe M. Medalla, Nimfa F. Mendoza, Solita C. Monsod, Cayetano W. Paderanga, Jr., Ernesto M. Pernia, Stella A. Quimbo, Gerardo P. Sicat, Orville C. Solon, Edita A. Tan, Gwendolyn R. Tecson. Population and Poverty; The Real Score* (DP 2004-15). Discussion Paper. UP School of Economics; December 2004. Web. 5 September 2011. PDF. Associated Press. â€Å"Hormone pills added to list of carcinogens.† msnbc.com. 29 July 2005. Web. 5 September 2011. â€Å"Contraception.† Gale Encyclopedia of Medicine. 2008. The Gale Group Inc. Web. 5 September 2011. Lagman, Edcel. â€Å"Reproductive health bill: Facts, fallacies.† INQUIRER.net. 3 August 2008. Web. 5 September 2011. Retrieved from: Likhaan and ARROW. State of Filipino Women’s Reproductive Rights: 10 Years Post Cairo Shadow Report. Research in Brief. 2004. Print. Pernia, Ernesto M. Stella Alabastro-Quimbo, Maria Joy V. Abrenica, Ruperto P. Alonzo, Agustin L. Arcenas, Arsenio M. Balisacan, Dante B. Canlas, Joseph J. Capuno, Ramon L. Clarete, Rolando A. Danao, Emmanuel S. de Dios, Aleli dela Paz-Kraft, Benjamin E. Diokno, Emmanuel F. Esguerra, Raul V. Fabella, Maria Socorro Gochoco-Bautista, Teresa J. Ho, Felipe M. Medalla, Maria Nimfa F. Mendoza, Solita C. Monsod, Toby Melissa C. Monsod, Fidelina Natividad-Carlos, Cayetano W. Paderanga, Gerardo P. Sicat, Orville C. Solon, Edita A. Tan, and Gwendolyn R. Tecson. Population, Poverty, Politics and the Reproductive Health Bill (DP 2011-01). Discussion Paper. UP School of Economics; February 2011. Web. 5 September 2011. PDF. Retrieved from: Philippines. Cong. House. The Responsible Parenthood, Reproductive Health and Population and Development Act of 2011. 15th Cong., 1st sess. HB 4244. PDF. â€Å"Position Paper on RH bill: by Individual Faculty, Students and Alumni of the University of the Philippines.† iPetition.com. n.d. Web. 5 September 2011. Retrieved from: Singh S et al., Adding It Up: The Costs and Benefits of Investing in Family Planning and Maternal and Newborn Health, New York: Guttmacher Institute and United Nations Population Fund, 2009. (Suggested citation) WHO. â€Å"Reproductive Health.† World Health Organization. n.d. Web. 18 October 2011. Retrieved from: < http://www.who.int/topics/reproductive_health/en/> WHO. â€Å"Family Planning.† World Health Organization. n.d. Web. 18 October 2011. Retrieved from: WHO.