Spectrum Disorder Early Childhood Intervention - Free Essay Example

Sample details Pages: 7 Words: 2026 Downloads: 1 Date added: 2019/03/13 Category Sociology Essay Level High school Tags: Childhood Essay Did you like this example? Abstract Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disability, and it can be detected during the early childhood years. The autism umbrella is a wide range of complex conditions that affects abilities of verbal and non-verbal communication, social interaction, and repetitive or restrictive behaviors. Its extremely difficult to generalize about autism; children with ASD can vary in severity of symptoms, and those may be different from another. Don’t waste time! Our writers will create an original "Spectrum Disorder Early Childhood Intervention" essay for you Create order For this reason, autism is considered a spectrum of disorders. The symptoms may also combine in a unique way for each child, thereby producing different sets of problems or difficulties among children with ASD (Min). The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported in 2014 that about 1% of the world population has autism spectrum disorder. In United States, more than 3.5 million people live with autism. During 2018, one of fifty-nine children were born with this disorder, and it was contrasting with the statistic of one in 150 children from 2000. According to the CDC, the average age diagnosis is 4-5 years, but a reliable autism diagnosis can be made as early as 18-24 months, and thats why early detection is so critical, even though research shows that most parents have no knowledge about autism symptoms. There is no known cause for ASD, but its prevalence rate is on the rise (ADDM Network). These results suggest the importance of generate awareness, so parents know what to look for if they think their child has autism. Some signs and symptoms that a child with ASD may exhibit include: Difficulty in expressing needs, engages in odd ritualistic movements such as rocking, laughs or cries or shows distress for reasons not apparent to others, temper tantrums, prefers to be alone, difficulty in mixing with other children or adults, unable to relate to others in socially appropriate ways, not responsive to normal teaching methods, not responsive to verbal cues/acts as if deaf although hearing tests are in the normal range, sustained play and special interest with certain toys or objects, over-sensitive or under-sensitive to pain, noticeable physical over-activity or extreme under-activity, and uneven gross/fine motor skill development. (Min) In the United States, its been estimated the total costs per year for children with ASD to be between $11.5 billion â€Å" $60.9 billion. This represents a mixture of direct and indirect costs of special education and medical care. Children of all ages with ASD had average medical expenditures that exceeded those without ASD by $4,110â€Å"$6,200 per year (ADDM Network). This is an average of 4.1 6.2 times greater than for those without ASD. In 2005, the average annual medical costs for Medicaid-enrolled children with ASD were $10,709 per child (ADDM Network), which represent about six times higher than the costs for children without ASD, and the cost of intensive behavioral interventions for children with ASD was $40,000 to $60,000 per child per year (ADDM Network). A study from The United States Department of Health revealed that cases of autism have increased 500% over the past five years, although the causes of autism have remained ambiguous. Genetically predisposed children are encountering a neurologically toxic environmental trigger that disables them and disconnects them from the world (Matson and Boisjoli). Those triggers could include heavy metal, pesticides, viral, parasite, and bacterial-induced toxicity. In another report presented at a recent national autism association conference in the United States, Dr. Bryan Jepson (author of Changing the Course of Autism: A Scientific Approach for Parents and Physicians) stated, that 80,000 chemicals have been introduced into the global environment in the last twenty years, none of which have been tested for neurological toxicity (Matson and Boisjoli). This time of exposure coincides with the snowball effect period of this autism epidemic. Also, it is projected that within a decade the tendency will be as high as one in twenty-two people. One encouraging sign that increasing awareness of the trigger effect may be starting to make a difference is that children who were first diagnosed in or after 2008 in the USA were more likely to have milder autism spectrum disorder (ASD) than those diagnosed in or before 2007 (Matson and Boisjoli). While autism was once a condition that was rarely discussed in public, now we find information everywhere: on television, radio, and internet. Also, there is a considerable amount of autism organizations in United States; however, in New Jersey, only few of them are exceptional. Since 2002, Bergens Promise, Inc. is a recognized 501(3)(c) private non-profit organization in assisting and supporting to families with youth ages of five to twenty-one. They provide a comprehensive, individualized wraparound service planning through a team process; that covers behavioral, emotional, and mental health challenges, substance use issues and developmental disabilities. This non-profit organization has worked with over 4,000 youth and their families. They proudly stated: our many successful graduations are the agencys most significant accomplishments (Bergens Promise). Bergens Promise is the designated Care Management Organization (CMO) for Bergen County as part of The NJ Department of Children and families, Childrens System of Care (CSOC). The Wraparound Model of Care is a new point of reference in helping families to deal with complicated emotional and behavioral issues. This model could be successful by creating a plan to achieve the familys long-term vision of success, where involving the youth and family in the decision-making process is primordial. Together as a team, families are facing the adversity with a focus on strengths, not deficits. Other family members, friends and community supports closest to the family get involved to offer guidance and support. In-home and community-based resources are used to address the most important needs (Bergens Promise). The success of this model has Bergens Promise mission as its foundation: The goal of the organization is to keep ?Healthy Families, Safe at Home. Bergens Promise will provide exceptional care management services to keep youth and families physically and emotionally safe. (Bergens Promise) And inspired by its vision statement: Our services will be built on the familys strengths and delivered through a strong, coordinated network of community-based providers. We will strive to provide the highest quality of care that will produce the most positive results for the youth and families we serve. (Bergens Promise) Like any other organization, Bergens Promise faces many challenges: finding a service provider qualified to provide Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) services can be a complicated task; an organization that provides ABA therapy will have a Registered Behavior Technician (RBT), a Board Certified Associate Behavior Analyst (BCaBA), and a Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) providing direct or indirect services to children. There is a lot of sites that provide therapy under the philosophy of ABA, but they are not certified by the Behavior Analyst Certification Board (BACB). The therapist who design the plan must hold a masters degree in Applied Behavior Analysis; if the therapist has a masters degree in Social Work, Psychology, Occupational Therapy, or in any other field the therapist has not received specific training to provide ABA services. But this task could be even more difficult when these services must be covered by Medicaid, and it represents the 81% of the budget; the CSOC covers the 14%; and only the 5% must be through alternative funding sources (Ramirez). Non-profit organization are performing a noble cause, and that make me think volunteering would be a great opportunity to give back. My family has been working with Bergens Promise for about six years. My daughter, Ayleen, was diagnosed of Autism at the age of two, and currently she is one of their clients. The first step was contact Melissa Ramirez, her Case Manager in Bergens Promise, and we were talking about the possibilities of sharing our experiences to other parents, encourage them to advocate for their children, and make them understand how important they are in this journey through recovery. We identify together that parents played a critical role in their children success. While therapist often focus on what the child cant do, parents could bring out the best in their children; however, something that started as a good idea, days later, was completely dissolved in one briefed sentence from Melissas boss, this will be conflict of interest since your daughter is one of our clients, what unexpected refusal (strike one). A couple weeks later, I heard about an opportunity of volunteering in a Compassionate Behavioral Health Program in New Bridge Medical Center, so I decided to go to speak Susan Burkhardt, Manager of Volunteer Services, and she informed me about all requirements needed: background check, drug test, medical exam, vaccination, training, and sixty hours commitment; impossible to achieve for now (strike Two). I didnt realize that doing my ten hours of service could be so complicated. Honestly, if I dont have to go church to pray God to be a good catholic, volunteering could be anywhere. My wife and I have worked so hard, and our contribution is to help other parents to face this challenge by providing information, sharing personal experiences, or offering practical ideas to alleviate any stress related to parenting children with ASD. Its not an easy road we are traveling to recovery, but it also has rewards our daughter really helped us to appreciate the little things in life more than we did before. We must to be honest with the families that are coming to our house; we always emphasize our role as parents is not easy, but the results are incredibly beautiful. My wife and I still remember that day when our daughter was diagnosed with Severe Autism. We still remember the nurse telling us, hopefully, when she turns forty you dont need to still be wiping her bottom after using the toilet. We still remember crying every day for more than four years. We still remember knocking at the churchs door at 2:00 a.m. asking God for several times: why God? Why? (Its ok to having those feeling). Despite all, well never forget the first time when she looked into our eyes. Well never forget her first word. Well never forget her first kiss without prompting (expressing feelings for real). This is about being patient and put your faith in God, and we tell all the parents both side of the story: the good and the bad. We have been explaining to parents that early intervention is the key and seeking professional help is highly recommended. Therapy doesnt end after the therapist leaves the house; parents job is meant to be a 24/7 therapist. Also, their childrens diet must be as healthy as possible, no junk food at all. Repeating concepts and anticipating events are primordial; my wife took two hours every day in the bathroom for two years to teach our daughter the colors, shapes, and the alphabet. My daughter left the pampers at the age of four (not forty). Now she is going to an inclusion class, reading small chapter books, and solving problems of addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. Conclusion During more than seven years, we have been meeting several parents; from those who are highly concerned to others that just gave up after telling them about how their children can get rid of the pampers: first, we need to monitor and create a chart with intervals of twenty or thirty minutes, then observe whether our child is wet or dry. Based on the information from the chart, we need to plan a daily routine. Its also important to set up the bathroom free of distractions, explain the routine to the child, create a picture or visual chart, and always provide a positive feedback on each accomplish. Then the intervals will be gradually increased until eliminate the pampers at all. Most parents think that toilet training during the day is so hard, but what about the schedule during the night, or what about now that my ten-years-old daughter has been trained about her puberty; we covered topics like hygiene, cramps, blood, and even menopause. We bought menstrual pads and food coloring (red), and due to her sensory issues, we decided to practice by placing the wet pad in her underwear for about ten minutes. Her face denoted discomfort, and she couldnt hold it by telling my wife: Mom, I want to be in menopause. Yes, this is she. And its been more than nine years of service.

Pathophysiology Of Addison s Disease - 1103 Words

Pathophysiology Addison’s disease is also known as Adrenocortical Insufficiency, which means the adrenal cortex does not produce enough hormones (Understanding Medical Surgical Nursing, 2015). Addison’s disease occurs when the adrenal glands, above the kidneys, don’t make enough hormones that are essential to normal body functions (Understanding Addison’s Disease, n.d.). The most common cause of Addison’s disease is due to the adrenal cortex being abnormally small or atrophied. This causes the adrenal cortex to not produce as many hormones (Understanding Medical Surgical Nursing, 2015). If the disease is primary, the pituitary gland may be sending out elevated levels of ACTH (adrenocorticotropic hormone) to try to get the adrenal cortex to produce more hormones. When the disease is secondary, the ACTH does not stimulate the adrenal cortex to produce more hormones (Understanding Medical Surgical Nursing, 2015). Only 1 out of 100,000 people actually have Addison ’s disease; making it very rare. Addison’s disease occurs in men and women of any age (Understanding Addison’s Disease). Etiology, Causes, and Risk Factors Some people believe that Addison’s disease is autoimmune disease. They think the gland sort of â€Å"terminates† itself. Diseases such as tuberculosis, AIDS, cancer, and fungal infections are thought to cause the self-destruction of the adrenal cortex. Hashimoto’s thyroid and bilateral adrenalectomy may also cause Addison’s disease. Secondary Addison’s diseaseShow MoreRelatedBiology Immunology Case Study 3005.21363 Words   |  6 Pagescharacteristic constellation of manifestations, physical findings and serum electrolyte pattern; all indicative of a severe adrenal insufficiency, presumably Addison s disease. 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Macroeconomic Indicators Statistical Interactive Database

Question: Describe about the Macroeconomic Indicators for Statistical Interactive Database. Answer: Introduction Economic indicators measure how solid an economy of a nation is (Alesina Tabellini, 2015: 22). They can quantify particular areas of an economy, for example, the real estate or retail segment, or they give estimations of an economy all in all, for example, GDP or unemployment. Brokers and researcher are occupied with these estimations since they affect the estimation of a GDP. Monetary indicators give a depiction of the economy's wellbeing. A market analyst may check the essential indications of the economy by taking a look at total national output (GDP), customer value record (CPI) or the joblessness rate The financial indicators help them see where the economy is as far as the business cycle, which demonstrates the rising and falling of monetary conditions after some time (Alesina Tabellini, 2015: 22). According to Alesina Tabellini (2015: 23), economic indicators are generally stuffed with measurements arranged by government offices, non-profit association and occasionally, even privately owned businesses. In addition, financial indicators assume a crucial part in the business sector since they stipulate measures to be utilized in assessing the economy by watching a few business cycles and how the shoppers are spending in a particular business sector. For experts, knowing these monetary indicators help them break down the status of the economy. It demonstrates how the economy is right now getting along at present and how well it will turn out later on (Alesina Tabellini, 2015: 23). A portion of the monetary indicators cover work, occupation and pay, balance of payments, cash and saving money, training, budgetary venture, and remote (foreign) exchange. Either these indicators are distributed quarterly or every year, even day by day. In the certain countries such as South Africa, the national wage accounts, farming, tutoring, power and gas is a portion of the financial indicators that forecasters investigate. For the horticultural division, it incorporates the complete spending plan for agribusiness, amount and estimation of creation of harvests and the normal costs of some agrarian items. Then again, fundamental education measurements, for example, the spending plan for education and training are the elements being broke down as a monetary indicator in the training area. At present South Africa is considering a ton of elements while investigating the status of the nation. In any case, it is recommended by a considerable measure of experts to contract down the sc ope of one nation's financial indicators with a specific end goal to concentrate on what is truly key for the economy (Alesina Tabellini, 2015: 23). Leading Indicators The rates of interest usually influence the uptake of mortgages, personal credit and finance for vehicles (car loans) and dealings in the stock market. In accordance with a publication by the Bank of England (2010: 3), a nation's central bank will choose the rate of interest and it refers to the cost of credit. Essentially, interest rate can be utilized to manage credit and avail it reasonably to the general population. As the interest rate increase, the general populations who have taken advances undergoes trouble in paying cash back as they will need to pay more money with the expansion in rate of interest. On the off chance, that the rate of interest is below the average, this makes individuals take more credits so that reimbursement for them will be simple. Along these lines, as the effect of interest rates fluctuate, so will the need of the cash and in like manner, individuals will take advances. Consequentially, interest rates are either positive or negative. On the off chance, that interest rate is high then it has a negative effect on an economy, and on the off chance that it is on the plus side, then it effect will be low. For instance, people will take more mortgage rates if it is on the plus side. Consequently, the middle class will expand leading to increased aggregate demand in an economy (Bank of England, 2010: 5). Mortgage Rates A decline in home-loan rates may propose that supply exceeds demand, existing rates are very costly, and furthermore, mortgage rates are extended and should adjust because of a bubble. In a publication by SABC News (2013: 4), declines in mortgages unconstructively influence the financial system for a small number of rationales: They diminish homeowners wealth They diminish the amount of progress of employment opportunities estimated in making new-fangled houses, this way it expands unemployment They diminish tax, thus put a cap on government resources Mortgage holders are not prepared to negotiate again before offering their houses for sale, thus can limit them into foreclosure. When looking at mortgage information, it is good to notice two things: adjustment of house qualities and adjustment of deals. At the point when deals go down, it largely indicates that values will probably fall. For example, the fall of the mortgage market in the 2007 financial crisis, affected the global economy including South Africa (SABC News, 2013: 4). Personal Credit Extension Credit stretched out to the household private segment grew 9.02% year on year in February, quickening from development of 8.54% in January (Business Day, 2016: 1). Private area credit extension was required to have expanded at a moderately consistent rate of 8.5% year on year a month ago. Yearly advance development is relied upon to remain generally quieted for the current year because of the more tightly money related strategy position, high existing levels of obligation among families and tight loaning conditions. The Reserve Bank has already noticed that credit take-up by family units specifically has been unassuming, "as customers face rising interest rates and more tightly acknowledge conditions" and "elevated amounts of unemployment, weaker household financial development and prospects, negative riches impacts originating from powerless development in property and other resource costs, and stricter credit controls. Add up to credit augmentation in February was at 9.5% year on year, from 8.5% in January (Business Day, 2016: 1). Vehicle Finance Vehicle deals are heading downhill on journey control after the business enrolled significant decreases in September. Latest car deals were down 15% to 48,000 units contrasted with September 2015, as indicated in Business Day (2016:1). Offers of new traveler autos were down 13.9% that month, adding to an annual decay of 11.9%. September's figures speak to a speeding up in the decrease taking after a drop of 12% the previous month against September 2015. An aggregate 79% of new vehicles were put up for sale via dealership, with the vehicle rental industry representing 14.3%, corporate deals 3.4% and government representing 1.4%. As per the head of vehicle and resource back at Standard Bank SA, the direct deals veil the merchant channel circumstance, aggravating the market even than it looks. The Stock Exchange Notwithstanding the way that the Exchanging framework is won't not be the most imperative indicator, various residents for the most part notice it first. Since stock expenses are arranged to a restricted degree on what associations are depended upon to acquire, the market can demonstrate the economy's bearing if wage evaluations are correct. For example, a strong market may recommend that profit assessments are up and as needs be that the general economy is wanting to thrive. Then again, a down market may demonstrate that association wage is required to decrease and that the economy is rushed toward a retreat. By and by, there are trademark imperfections to relying upon the share exchanging framework as a principle indicator. To begin with, salary appraisals can't be correct. Second, the share exchanging framework is vulnerable against control. For example, the organization of Reserve Bank SA (2016:1) have used Quantitative Easing, government support money, and distinctive systems to keep showcases high with a particular true objective to keep general society from solidifying if there should arise an occurrence of a monetary crisis. Furthermore, some mining organizations control numbers to explode stocks by method for high-volume trades, complex money related subordinate strategies, and imaginative accounting models (legitimate and unlawful) (Gordhan, 2016). Since individual stocks and the general market can be controlled consequently, a stock or document cost is not by any stretch of the imagination an impression of its genuine shrouded quality or regard (Bank of England, 2010: 3). v. Inflation as an Indicator Whenever in the year, there can be ascendance in the costs of the products and merchandise utilized; it is termed as Inflation in macroeconomics (Bank of England, 2012). The principle target of any nation is to see that the costs of the products are minimized and rate of price increases is to be diminished. The impacts of price increases on the economy of a nation can be numerous and they can be sure or negative. A fall in the genuine value of cash over a timeframe and an obscure future may debilitate individuals from contributing cash; these are some negative impacts of inflation. On the off chance that individuals come to realize that the costs of products are going up then this will make individuals purchase and stock merchandise and this may prompt high rate of ballooning of prices. Beneficial outcomes of inflation might be with the end goal that banks can urge individuals to put more cash in non-fiscal capital activities (Baumohl, 2012: 23). An increased inflation rate may break up the estimation of the Rand more quickly than the typical client's compensation can conform. Thusly, this lessens buyer's acquiring power, and the ordinary lifestyle diminishes. Likewise, inflation can impact diverse factors, for instance, work advancement, and can provoke decreases in business rates as well as GDP. How these Indicators play into GDP With reference to South African Reserve Bank (2016: 3), the usage of economic strategies by a reserve bank is finished with the objective of improving the economy off; that is to make a maintained low expansion environment by the best possible administration of loan costs, cash supply and budgetary conditions. This is to accomplish high monetary development and job and proficient use of assets accessible in the public. The way to advance of economy can be acquired with kept up value steadiness, which is the result of legitimate financial approach choices, conditions and standards. The principle devices are open business sector operations in securities markets by a national bank and intercession in outside trade market (Yamarone, 2012: 31). The South African Reserve Bank (2016: 1) is in charge of figuring and actualizing money related approach. Accordingly, its principle destinations are: Strength of the Rand Support of full vocation Monetary success and welfare of the general population Real indicators utilized for money related strategy work is often published for all to see. Inflation can be characterized as the general upward value development of merchandise in an economy, and as a rule as measured by the consumer price list (CPI) and Producer Price Index (PPI). As the cost of the merchandise expands, the acquiring force (Purchasing Power) of the purchaser tumbles down, this brings about a rise in prices. The rate of expansion varies every now and then. In the course of the last half hundreds of years the inflation has been extraordinarily fluctuating, running from 0 20%. Despite the fact that South Africa attempts to keep up a particular rate of expansion (inflation), which is normally a rate of 2 3%, however can differ subject to conditions. As food values increased, South Africas expansion rate rose, adding to likely hood of a rate increase. The Department of Statistics said that in the final quarter of the past year, the CPI climbed 0.5 rates. Expansion on a yearly premise rose 2.1%. Furthermore, the Bureau of Statistics said that natural product cost bounced 16% for the quarter; there is an expansion in household travel and settlement by 6.6 rates. The expense of lager rose rate of 2.1% and lease and home buys rose 1 rate. Counterbalancing those cost increment were petrol down 2.8%, and pharmaceuticals losing 5.3% (South African Reserve Bank, 2016: 1). Monetary policy The monetary policy is the quality of government policy that influences the economy through the financial backing by changes in government use, welfare installments and changes in expense (South African Reserve Bank, 2016: 4). It tells about general impact of spending result in monetary action. Its fundamental objectives are value soundness, full job and the financial development. This policy will direct the stream of cash in the economy, furthermore the discretionary cash flow in the hands of the customers. In any case, the usage of monetary policy dependably slowly affects the economy. It influences pay dispersion, asset distribution design, monetary movement level and the total interest (South African Reserve Bank, 2016: 4). Statement of the Monetary Policy Committee (South African Reserve Bank) Featured consumer price inflation (CPI) declined to inside the objective scope of 3% to 6% in August, in accordance with the Reserve Bank's desires. By the by, higher inflation results are estimate in the close term before a managing to come back inside the objective extent beyond 2017 (South Africa Reserve Bank, 2016: 3). While residential economic development prospects shows more good after the positive amazement in the second quarter of this current year, the standpoint stays obliged against a background of frail residential fixed speculation. Dangers (risks) from the worldwide economic crisis, despite the fact that the unpredictability in worldwide money related markets in the wake of the Brexit choice have died down. Prospects for a resumption of US money related strategy remain a key danger to the example of worldwide capital streams and to developing business sector trade rates when all is said in done, with proceeded with instability in regards to the planning and pace of future moves (South Africa Reserve Bank, 2016: 4). Forecast, magnitude and direction In the recent publication by the South African Reserve Bank (2016: 2), the composite leading business cycle indicator expanded by 0.9% on a month-to- month premise in June 2016. Four of the nine-segment time forecast that was accessible for June 2016 expanded, while five diminished. The biggest positive commitments in June came about because of an expansion in the quantity of private building arrangements passed, trailed by an increasing speed in the twelve-month rate change in the composite leading business cycle indicator of South Africa's significant exchanging (trade) accomplice nations. The biggest negative commitments to the development in the composite leading indicator in June originated from a narrowing in the loan cost spread, and a lessening in the normal number of hours worked in the manufacturing segment. The trend is likely to continue for the next 3 years. Concluding Remarks Among the use parts, real government consumption climbed energetically over the previous year. Real last consumption by family units contracted all through the nine months of 2009 yet recuperated from that point, encouraged by lower interest rates, above-inflation pay increments and enhancements in certainty. The late increments were focused on consumption of sturdy and semi-solid products, with buys of TVs, in addition to other things, supported as the 2010 FIFA World Cup competition drew nearer. Since the strength of the economy is personally associated with shopper notion as can be seen by indicators, for example, retail deals, legislators like to turn information in a constructive light or control it to such an extent that everything seems blushing. Therefore, to describe precisely the condition of the economy, an economist relies examination alone or perhaps the investigation of others without a specific plan. Remember that most financial indicators work best in organization with different indicators. By considering the whole picture, economists can consequently settle on better choices in regards to arrangements and ventures in an economy. References Alesina A. and Tabellini G. (2015) Why is Fiscal Policy Often Pro cyclical? National Bureau of Economic Research, pg. 22-24 Bank of England (2010) Bank of England Statistical Interactive Database, Retrieved 12 September 2016, pg. 3-6 Bank of England (2012) Treasury Committee Inquiry into the Monetary Policy Committee of the Bank of England: Ten Years On, The Stationery Office. Retrieved September 27, 2016, pg. 4-5 Baumohl B. (2012) The Secrets of Economic Indicators: Hidden Clues to Future Economic Trends and Investment Opportunities, FT Press, pg. 23 BBC News (2010) Interest rates remain at record low, Retrieved September 27, 2016, pg. 4 Business Day (2016) Growth in private sector credit extension accelerates unexpectedly, BD Live, South Africa Emrys S. C (2010) Economic Indicators, in Wankel, C. (ed.) Encyclopedia of business in Today's World, California, USA, pg. 4-8 Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia (2010) State Coincident Indexes, Retrieved September 26, 2016 Feldstein M. (2012) The Role for Discretionary Fiscal Policy in a Low Interest Rate Environment, NBER Working Paper No. 9203, pg 65 Gordhan P. (2016) Budget Speech: Check against Delivery: Minister of Finance, South Africa, pg. 16 Institute for Economic Affairs (2012) IEA's Shadow Monetary Policy Committee votes to hold Bank Rate, pg. 23 Jordan S. (2010) Asset Purchase Facility, John Wiley Sons, pg 34 Keegan W. (2013) The prudence of Mr Gordon Brown, Wiley, pg. 62. Retrieved September 27, 2016 Kganyago L. (2016) Embargo Delivery: Statement of the Monetary Policy Committee, Governor of the South African Reserve Bank Monaghan A (2013) Budget 2013: Bank of England's monetary policy remits changed, pg. 21, Retrieved September 27, 2016 Parkin M and Melanie M. K (2011) Economics, Addison-Wesley, pp. 4244 SABC News (2013) Interest rates held until unemployment falls. Retrieved September 27, 2016, pg. 4 SABC News (2016) Rate hike fear as inflation jumps. Retrieved September 27, 2016, pg. 2 Simon C and Robert E. W (2011) The WSJ Guide to the 50 Economic Indicators that really matter, HarperCollins, pg. 43 South Africa Reserve Bank (September 22, 2016) Monetary Policy Committee Minutes, Archived from the original, pg. 1-5 South African Reserve Bank (2016) Composite business cycle indicators for South Africa, pg. 1 South African Reserve Bank (2016) Quarterly Bulletin, pg. 3 Steven M. S. (2013) Economics: Principles in action, Upper Saddle River, New Jersey 07458: Pearson Prentice Hall, pg 12 Wallace T. (2012) High inflation forces King to explain again. City IS. Pg, 23, Retrieved September 27, 2016 Yamarone R. (2012) The Traders Guide to Key Economic Indicators, John Wiley Sons, pg. 31

The Power of a Book free essay sample

I looked down at the minuscule hand that was jabbing the corner of a hardcover picture book into my abdomen. I stared at my kindergarten buddy’s hopeful face and took the book from him warily. We sat down in a corner of the classroom and he lifted his legs to his chest, resting his chin on his knees anticipating the beginning of a story. I looked from the book to his expectant eyes and then back again. I finally cracked open the cover of the book and started to tell him a story. Yes, I told him a story, but I did not read him one. It was the fourth grade and every month our class met with our kindergarten buddies to read to them. Every month I made up my own new story to hide the fact that I couldn’t read. It was that same year that I was diagnosed with a learning difference. We will write a custom essay sample on The Power of a Book or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page They called it slow processing speed, telling me it takes my mind longer to understand new information. It wasn’t until the end of that year when I finally learned how to read. That said, I didn’t particularly like reading. In fact, I despised it. I remember dreading the days where our class would take turns reading the textbook out loud, bracing myself for the laughter that was bound to come when my turn came around. I stuttered and stumbled over my words, often repeating the same lines over again. I can’t remember the amount of times that I heard â€Å"Just sound it out.† It wasn’t until eight grade when I stumbled upon the book that would change my life. My mother gave it to me; she said it was her favorite book when she was my age. It was called A Tree Grows and Brooklyn and it was written by Betty Smith. It sat on my shelf for a while, alone, no other books accompanying it. Until one day, I decided to pick it up. I don’t remember what compelled me to come back to this book. I might have been bored, I might have been frustrated by my poor reading skills, but I opened the front cover, took in the smell of printed pages, and started to read. I didn’t stop. I fell in love with A Tree Grows in Brooklyn. It was so easy for me to relate to the protagonist; it was as if she knew exactly how I was feeling and what I was going through. Every spare moment I was reading that book. It felt as if a hand had sprung out of the pages and pulled me in, enveloping me in this new world. It took me about six months to finish A Tree Grows in Brooklyn but when I was finished, and closed the cover and clutched the book in my hands, a sorrowful feeling came over me. There were no more pages to turn; no more story to devour. It was in that moment that I knew that I needed more books, more tales to dive into, more adventures to explore. From that day on, reading has morphed into something that is so essential to my life. It is my passion; it is what makes me tick. Reading used to be my most arduous and avoided activity, but now it is the thing that shapes my life. If I have had a bad day at school or am under a lot of stress, nothing calms me more than slipping into a good book. I am still a slow reader and sometimes reading can still be a challenge, but all of that struggle pales in comparison to the amount of joy that I get from a book. I keep almost all of the books that I have read on my bookshelf. I don’t organize them by authors’ last name or by genre. But I put them on the shelf in the order that I have read them. A Tree Grows in Brooklyn is the first. 591 others follow.

Learning Outcomes

Teaching is one of the most interesting professions because it enables teachers to be able to evaluate their performance in class. This essentially leads to the analysis of the teaching objectives which have been set. Learning outcomes are statements of desired outcomes of learning expressed in terms that make it clear how measurements can be achieved.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Learning Outcomes specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More As such, they act as a logical basis for measuring and reporting on the students’ achievements (Melton, 1997). In particular, they focus attention on what is to be learnt. Bearing in mind that learning outcomes are a form of the referenced objectives, it follows that they may derive from, and be identified by the type of strategies for objectives and competences that have already been described.It is therefore important for the teacher to be as specific as possible when they a re assigning the learning objectives in order to be able to achieve the desired outcomes at the end of the lesson (Melton, 1997). Learning outcomes should have certain characteristics for one to be effective (Kubiszyn Borich, 2010). Thus, first of all, this implies that they have to be specific. In this case, the learning outcomes should be described in specific terms and they should guide the teacher in dissemination of knowledge. Secondly, they should be realistic. In this case, the teacher should ensure that they are within what can be achieved. Thirdly, they should be measurable, as such, the outcomes should be described in terms which are quantifiable. They should also be time bounded, that is, they should be within a given set of time. Having this information in mind, it is important to ensure that the learning and instructional objectives which are set are attainable. Based on the information provided, the teacher intends to prepare learning instructions for an arithmetic cl ass. In this case, the learning outcomes should ensure that the learner is able to carry out basic arithmetic operations. This should go hand in hand with ensuring that the learner is attuned to understanding the basic principles which govern the utilization of these operative signs during a class room operation. In essence, by the end of the lesson, the learner should be able to work out basic arithmetic operations.Advertising Looking for essay on education? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More These operations should be addition and subtraction. The learner in this case should be able to apply the basic principles which are in line with the processes which are involved in carrying out these operations. In addition, the learner should be able to use practical approaches in carrying out these operations. During this lesson, learning materials which are going to be used include visual charts, flash cards, marbles and crayons to be u sed by the learner. It is also important to note that the lesson will take fifty minutes within which the teacher should introduce the lesson, build on the topic and then conclude the lesson. Lastly, the teacher should give the learners home assignments to make sure that they have acquired the knowledge that they have learned in class. While the main goal of the classroom’s learning objectives is to obtain, valid, reliable and useful information about student achievement, the assessment procedures also assist in checking on the effectiveness of the learning outcomes (Kubiszyn Borich, 2010). A well designed assessment plan will help you identify your own strengths and weaknesses and will guide your teaching approach. The result of a classroom test based on the objectives can also provide answers to the following questions; what is the level of the students’ achievement? Are the course objectives realistic? Are the instruction methods appropriate? And how well are the l earning experiences sequenced? Thus, the teacher will be able to follow through the important aspects of the learning process which is to attain the set objectives. References Kubiszyn, T., Borich, G. (2010). Educational testing measurement: Classroom application and practice (9th ed.). New Jersey: John Wiley Sons, Inc. Melton, R. F. (1997). Objectives, competences and learning outcomes: developing instructional materials in open and distance learning. New York: Routledge.Advertising We will write a custom essay sample on Learning Outcomes specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More This essay on Learning Outcomes was written and submitted by user Kas0n to help you with your own studies. You are free to use it for research and reference purposes in order to write your own paper; however, you must cite it accordingly. You can donate your paper here.

The Swans are Dead essays

The Swans are Dead essays Considering the amount of music that I have heard in my life, which adds up to quite a lot, it is a little difficult to single out only one small piece of that very large pie which has had a larger affect on me than any other. Although I am very critical of what I hear, considering how much listening I do, there are still a lot of artists who I have the utmost respect for, whose creations have helped me through bad times, and made good ones all that much better. There was a myriad of songs and albums that came to mind when trying to narrow it down, however, the first to come into me was the Swans final release, appropriately title Swans Are Dead. The fact that this album is a document of the two final tours of the band's existence is what makes it all the more amazing to me. Through out their 15 years of recording, Swans were constantly evolving. This factor alone is one that leads me to respect any artist regardless of whether or not I enjoy their work on any other level. In the ca se of a band like Swans, respect is probably the most important thing the listener can have before attempting to digest music that defies conventions on almost every possible level. Swans Are Dead stands as the perfect final farewell because it encompasses the earliest years of existence with the last songs the band had written, all of which were played with the finesse that can only be gained with time. As the band itself evolved, so did the songs written years earlier. Songs were given new life so to speak, and in so doing, became even more powerful than they once had. Like many albums that are considered masterpieces, the foremost example coming to mind is John Coltrane's 'A Love Supreme'; the music of Swans is transcendental. To compare John Coltrane's spiritually guided album and Swans document of their final tour solely on a musical level would be nearly impossible, but on emotional level, it is a very simple connection to make. As Coltrane wrote in t...

Health Informatics Article Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Health Informatics - Article Example It evaluates the environmental factors that affect internal and external business operations within the health sector. This aids in designing viable modalities of correcting possible complications that may affect performance (Procter, 2009). Effective business assessment is achievable through application of credible informatics ideals and information technology (IT) systems. This explains the relationships between the concepts because IT enabled systems enhance the evaluation of business processes and provision of reliable results (Hayes & Aspray, 2010). This is useful in health institutions where assessment of performance may be difficult based on the data concerns. In such an environment, the use of IT enabled systems is paramount in enabling managers to perform effective business analysis. Analysis of operations is critical because healthcare focuses on delicate services that are provided based on guidelines. Health administrators are answerable for evaluating their operations with the intent of establishing the quality of the services, data management and the use of modern equipments (Hayes & Aspray, 2010). The application of the IT and informatics seeks to expand nursing services to cover more patients and provide accurate and quality services. It will also develop vibrant health institutions that understand patient needs with proper storage of data. Organizations obtain, process, and store various types of data that focus on their daily operations and contribute to their performance (Procter, 2009). The data may range from finances, supplies, customers’ and employee data. This information must be managed under set guidelines to ensure optimal confidentiality as ethically required. This is achievable through systematic data management procedures that are not interrupted (Lewis, 2005). Health institutions that manage patient data relating to lab report, medicine

Was the US justified in using the Bomb against Japan Essay

Was the US justified in using the Bomb against Japan - Essay Example The bombing was necessary to prevent massive causalities on either side in the planned invasion since it precipitated the surrender. Japan’s plan was to inflict very heavy losses, which the war-weary Americans would not stand; neither would they negotiate for peace. Had the US continued with the plan to land on Kyushu, they would have suffered horrendous causalities. Pre-inventing causalities approximation anticipated the loss of between 100,000 to 1 million American soldiers, with 5 to 10 million Japanese civilians and military losing their lives ( Chappell 145). It has been estimated that between 250,000 to 400,000 Asians under Japanese occupation would have lost their lives for every month that the war went on. In this context, the fact remains that the atomic bombing against Nagasaki and Hiroshima resulted to the end of the World War II much sooner than any other alternative that could have been used and in so doing, millions of lives were saved. Given the reason that the Japanese had caused 17 million deaths, it is justifiable that the atomic bombing on Japan was to end the war. According to President Truman, an atomic bomb was to be used on Japan without a warning. In a radio broadcast following the atomic bombing on the two cities, President Truman announced that he realized the disastrous implication of the atomic bomb, which they had used against those who attacked Americans without caution, at Pearl Harbor. The bomb was to attack those who have beaten and starved and executed American war prisoners against those who deserted all the pretense of abiding by the international warfare law, and it was meant to shorten the misery of young Americans. The US was to continue using it until they totally destroy Japan’s power of making war. A decision of Japanese surrender was the only move that would have stopped them. The president was well aware of the savage way in which the Japanese waged war in

- Art and Music Appreciation Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

- Art and Music Appreciation - Essay Example It is incisively instructive, showing how the entire art movement can be looked at cynically, but one needs to know a lot about it first. This quote best expresses Holland’s take on the development of art. He is biting in his sarcasm, which shows disdain of how art is shown to the public, how commercial art is denigrated, and how common perception needs to be improved by education. Yes, I agree with Holland’s ‘inherited and exploded’ quote: today’s artists can take everything that went before and ‘blow it to bits’ in the sense of debunking art myths, taking and expanding forms, and adding or subtracting what would have been unthinkable when those forms and myths were created. The collage of styles in Strawberry Fields Forever is a precursor (or permission) for other bands to incorporate classic themes in their music. It took a while, but bands like Electric Light Orchestra and Orchestral Maneuvers in the Dark came along much later and used string and brass sections, together with symphonic strains. It was all due to John Lennon and Paul McCartney and their innovative, prophetic, visionary borrowing of classic motifs. The lyrics are intentionally jumbled to express laconic abandonment of all that was rule-bound: the Beatles allowed youngsters to break out with impunity, and to ignore disapproval. It allowed musicians to create collages of their own in a destructurist way, and there is the link with post-modernism. Such a band as the Beatles will, as Levitin (2007) proposes, always occupy a place in music, but their name might not live on with the tunes. People will hum Yesterday, sing Yellow Submarine to their children or serenade a lover with Michelle forever, but these will be like O Sole Mio, You are My Sunshine and Dancing in the Rain. Everyone knows them but like... who wrote

Toomer Challenges Racial Identity English Literature Essay

Toomer Challenges Racial Identity English Literature Essay Karintha, reapers and November cotton flowers, all have similar settings in rural Georgia which is located in the south where we see a lot of racism going on. The south for black Americans functioned as a site for trauma as well as a symbolic reference for their homeland. It is also a symbolic connection between slavery and sexualized black women. Its is all embedded in Toomers quest for racial identity as a mulatto. Toomer tries to represent the black womans sexuality as an act of sexual union scarred by traumatic history by depicting Karintha as an innocent prostitute. The book cane is regarded as a passing era associated with the trauma of slavery. Toomer was trying to create a connection between racial and cultural continuity generated by modernity to the regulation of black female desire. The major theme in this story which is death and sex relate to the Black American historical content of slavery and lynching. We see that in Cane, Toomer uses nature to describe the bodies of t he black females but nearly all the females are either tortured or violated in the rural settings which projects displacement of nature. The haunting rhythm of folk songs in the rural landscape draws attention to the women who are objects of male desire and transforms this women into lost objects. Toomer portrays the gender issues and social barriers that hindered black women. Her skin is like dust on the eastern horizonwhen the sun goes down (page 5). This description Toomer gives of karintha as dusk shows that what she represents is fading away. Karintha introduces the themes of movement in life and death that reoccur in the book Cane. The interest of men, who wishes to ripen a growing thing too soonà ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦ (page5) shows that men hastened her sexual development. Karintha represents the folks spirit that is fading away due to modernity in the south, she is over sexualized and that means that black men still have urges to be reconnected with the past. In Reapers, we see major racial themes here; the idea of slavery takes major precedence in ones mind when we start reading the poem. Toomer lays emphasis on the word black (Page 7) used to describe the black Americans that were slaves at that time in the south. The reapers were tied to a life of monotonous work. The introduction of the mower disrupts the peace in the cultivation of the weeds and brings war; this brings out the theme of racism, where there is constant social war between the colored and the white. The poem Reapers is suggestive of Black field laborers in the early 20th Century. Toomer also tries to depict the problem of racial economic inequalities that were also present in the south at that time. The word continue (page7) connotes the constant labor the black male did in the fields. We also have a view on how in the early 20th century, black males who had their lands would have to work and pay a certain amount back to the whites thereby leaving them with little profit . All their turmoil and hard work was always in vain. We also see an introduction to violence that emerges with the blood-stained scythe that has cut a rat in the poem, an issue that Toomer readdresses later in cane. November cotton flower is another poem that ensues after Reapers, the poem talks about environment in the south were we all know was difficult for the colored skin at that point in time. The poem describes how the cotton flowers survived the harsh south weather and still strived through the hard times it went through. We see Toomer use the idea of racial identity, he uses the images of scarcity, drought and death to express the black race during the time the poem was written. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦Brown eyes that loved without a trace of fear, Beauty so sudden for that time of year. (Page 8) Toomer depicts the sudden urge that the African American race have to fight against racism. The description of a hope for the cotton flower shows that Toomer believes there is hope for the African American; he tries to create a link between the oppression of race to the growing of a cotton flower. In Cane, Toomer tries to create a hybrid structure, where we see a combination of short stories and poems. Karintha, Reapers, and November cotton flowers portray death, labor, racial identity and racism which portray major themes in the book cane as a whole. The book cane is designed in a circle, Toomer starts from the south up into the north and back into the southern regions again. Since, Karintha, Reapers, and November cotton flowers are the first three consecutive pieces in the book Cane, Toomer gives us a shadow or a hint of what is to proceed in other poems and stories in the book. The three pieces are set in the rural south where a lot of racial identity is taking place, the description of Karintha as a November cotton flower, also gives us an imagery of how the south and its environment looked at that point in time. In karintha, Toomer describes her as an innocent prostitute who men constantly came to for gratification of their sexual desires just to fend a living for herself. Toomer reechoes the themes labor and economic inequalities also found in the poem Reapers and November cotton flower. Blood-stained, continue cutting weeds and shade (page 7) shows how the African Americans in the south had to continually labor to fend for themselves and family. In the south, the blacks grew cotton for a living but in November cotton flower, they had turmoil but seen no rewards of their labor, the natural resources were depleted thereby leaving the fields empty. And cotton scarce as any southern snow (page 8) Toomers cane is compiled of encounters with both blacks and white and black. In Karintha, we see encounters between blacks and white. Karintha was a black woman who was sexually appealing to both the white and black men in her community. However, in Reapers and November cotton flower we see the opposite of such encounters. Even though white men are attracted to karintha, in Reapers, and November cotton flowers, we see that they belittle the dusk skin color and subject them to a life of constant labor. Toomer also paints the theme death in these three consecutive pieces that start the book cane, as it would also be discussed in the other poems and stories that followed. In karintha, we see towards the ending that she mysteriously has a child who dies, Toomer likens the death to smokes that curl up in the community. Furthermore, Toomer uses animals in Reapers and November cotton flowers to signify death. In reapers, And there a field rat, startled squealing bleeds, (page7) Shows the black reaper slays the rat and leaves it bleeding without offering any sympathy to it. Toomer also describes the features of a dead land in November cotton flowers. à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦dead birds were found (page 8). Toomers description of Karintha as a November Cotton flower shows the idea of double consciousness because karintha was depicted by Toomer as a violent child who was mischievous and always stoning the cow, yet the preacher convinced himself that there was nothing wrong in her acts and regarded her as a November cotton flower. Toomer tries to portray how the whites thought their maltreatment of the blacks were justified and lawful. Which, is also the same thing seen in Reapers when the reaper refuses to acknowledge the fact that he had hurt the rat. The introduction of the mowers by Toomer in the reapers also signifies the birth of modernism and the new Negro movements, which, is also repeated in November cotton flowers when the cotton flowers begins to unexpectedly grow and the blacks see a hopeful future after the death of karinthas child which signifies the death of the old negro and old cultural style because as soon as Toomer transitions to the rural setting, the folk song setting seems to vanish. Jean Toomers cane is a book that takes into cognizance, the lives lived by Negros at that particular era and his work was considered as the New Negro art that led other black poets or writers to write other books in that light.

The Prevalence Of Anorexia Nervosa, Bulimia Nervosa, And Binge Eating D

The Prevalence Of Anorexia Nervosa, Bulimia Nervosa, And Binge Eating Disorder How prevalent is anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and other eating disorders? Without the knowledge of research, one is likely to think eating disorders are quite prevalent in society today. However, research proves that eating disorders, in general, are not as prevalent as one might think without any knowledge of the subject. Prevalence of an eating disorder refers to the number of cases of an eating disorder within a population. When discussing the prevalence of anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and eating disorders, it is important to realize and understand the risk factors and characteristics that help to better explain the prevalence of such disorders. This paper will discuss the diagnostic criteria used to diagnose anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and eating disorders, as well as the risk factors and characteristics involved with each disorder. The prevalence of eating disorders in college men will also be discussed along with the risk factors and characteristics that lead to these prevalence rates. Prevalence and Diagnostic Criteria for Anorexia Nervosa In order to understand the importance of the prevalence of anorexia nervosa it is important to generally understand the DSM IV criteria for anorexia nervosa. In order to qualify for diagnosis as an anorexic, a Patient must maintain an abnormally low weight (I 5% below expected weight for height and age). One must also have severe concerns about shape and weight, which is usually seen as an intense fear of gaining weight, in order to be classified as an anorexic. One who qualifies as anorexic also has low self evaluation about shape and weight. Also, in post-menarchal females... ...c cases? The American Journal of Psychiatry 1996; 153:386-394. Fairbum, Christopher and Terence Wilson. (1993). Binge Eating. New York: Guilford Press. Garfinkel, Paul, Elizabeth Lin, Paula Goering, and Cathy Spegg: Bulimia nervosa in a Canadian community sample: prevalence and comparison of subgroups. The American Journal of Psychiatry 1995; 152: 1052-1062. Kendler, KS, Neale Maclean, R. Kessler, A. Heath, and L. Eaves: The genetic epidemiology of bulimia nervosa. American Journal of Psychiatry 199 1; 1627-163 7. Olivardia, Roberto, Harrison Pope, Jr., Barbara Mangweth, and James Hudson: Eating disorders in college men. American Journal of Psychiatry 1995; 152:1279-1291. Walters, Ellen, and Kenneth Kendler: Anorexia nervosa and anorexic-like syndromes in a population based female twin sample. The American Journal of Psychiatry 1995- 152: 64-75.

Genetic Engineering

Scientists cross breed them. Most commonly used are genetic fruit flies to study the effects of genetic changes on development. Flies are preferred over other other animals because their vertebrae are simpler than other organisms. Modified bacteria are used to produce the protein insulin, to treat genetic diseases like diabetes, hemophilia, and dwarfism. Transgenic animals have had their genes altered. A majority of these animals are mice. Scientists can now produce these animals thanks to Crick and Watson discoveries. A transgenic plant; however, has genes that have en inserted in them rather than through pollination.Benefits of these plants are that they can fight droughts, as well as insect resistance. Less pesticide would be used. An example of a transgenic plant is the rape plant, which pollinates weeds. According to Google. Com, DNA fingerprinting is the analysis from samples of body tissues or fluids in order to identify individuals. It is very unlikely two people would have t he same fingerprint. DNA fingerprinting is beneficial in many ways including paternity tests, crime investigation and identify organisms causing a diseases.The testing can be done voluntarily by providing a sample of blood or a swab of the cheeks inside a person's mouth . The Human Genome Project was completed in April 2013 and it was a computerized system where you donate your DNA to be scanned into a computer base worldwide. They match your DNA with people all over the world. You paid to have your DNA sent in and all our genes sent together are known as a ‘genome. ‘ The project is beneficial because they can track diseases and help prevent them. Gene therapy is a technique that helps prevent or treat disease by using genes.Gene therapy is not unethical, it could prevent diseases from passing down through generations. I feel this way because it could help cure diseases that we never had the privilege to cure before. If I were to create my own transgenic organism it woul d be a mix between contractible that captures light from the sun and a cow. Transgenic cow, can provide food and sunlight received from the bacteria. It does not take up farmland all it has to do is stand in the sun. It can get all the protein and nutrients needed. Cows give us milk and meat, which could be healthier without all the pesticides. I would all the animal cannon. Genetic Engineering Genetic Engineering – A Curse or a Blessing? What is geneitc engineering? Many struggle to understand the real meaning and outcrops of this complicated, highly expensinve procedure. Genetic Engineering is a direct human manipulation of an organism’s DNA structure. As intricated as it seems, it’s a technology that has been used for decades, and is soon to outbreak into a real â€Å"Cloning Aeon†. Therefore, how could we know the benefits and the drawbacks of this technique?Let us take a hinge at the striking, egregious discoveries this subject has brought to the world: from SciFi novels to the first synthetic life forms, from genetical engineered wheat to dreaful mutations of the human bodies. Indeed, it seems as if we are already living the much-dreamt-of blazing, scientific inventions. Still, if so many types of drugs and cures have been made-up from just a few mutations, one may wonder how come the biggest issues regarding human incurable illnesses have not been resolved yet.No one can deny this: we own a technology way beyond our understanding, we hold a highly destructive power in our rubber science lab gloves, yet we feel listless when facing the most questionable allegation: Where are the cures for Cancer, AIDS and Alzheimer, diseases that break our world apart? Isn’t it curious how scientist try to create artificial lives instead of curing the genuine ones? We should admit that it’s not to be our â€Å"contemporany age† anymore. It’s a dawn of biohackers. Biohacking comes along with interests.Interests come along with strifes. And strifes inevitably lead to casualties. By the same token, millions of people could be left to struggle in an obscure, isolated self-made world in which they think they could be saved. It’s a tryout, it’s a new selection that many conspiracies theories affirm. Although we should not forget the cloned Dolly sheep and the rest of the pioneers in this area, I dar e say that genetic engineering has not yet proved to be something more than a handicap to what human society might mean.

Free Essays on Hatshepsut - The Woman Who Was Pharaoah

The Woman who was Pharaoh Hatshepsut, one of the ancient world’s most beautiful and intelligent women, is remembered as being the first woman to become King of Ancient Egypt. A woman of strong character, she acted as co-regent of Ancient Egypt for 20 years and worked hard to vastly improve the lives of all of her people. Her influence on the politics, trade, architecture and war during this time was immeasurable in the eyes and hearts of all who knew her and knew of her. Ancient Egypt was a peaceful civilization while Hatshepsut sat in the throne, dressed as a man to gather the admiration of her people. Peace rather than war found its way into Egyptian’s lives as they lived in harmony rather than tragedy. Tuthmosis III whom she shared the throne with led the army while she ruled the land. Wars were always businesslike and informative. This plan of attack resulted in no major wars while Hatshepsut was pharaoh. However, the forces were maintained efficiently despite the peaceful dent it carried. Many thousands of Egyptians lives were saved due to these 20 years of peace due to Hatshepsut’s keen political skills and her ability to jump every hurdle that came in her way. Hatshepsut ordered many trading expeditions during her time as King, which enabled Egyptians to live in domestic prosperity. Trade became an important part of her policy and many products returned in these expeditions can still be identified today in these lands. One of the most infamous trade expeditions was her voyage to Punt. Five ships sailed the Red Sea to Punt (now known as Somalia) with goods to exchange with the native people of Punt. Historians know of this voyage as the painted scenes of the expedition are seen today on the walls of her temple at Deir el-Bahri. Hatshepsut returned to Egypt with her ships carrying products Egyptians desired as dictated by the God Amon. The boats were laden with myrrh, frankincense, woods, resin, ivory... Free Essays on Hatshepsut - The Woman Who Was Pharaoah Free Essays on Hatshepsut - The Woman Who Was Pharaoah The Woman who was Pharaoh Hatshepsut, one of the ancient world’s most beautiful and intelligent women, is remembered as being the first woman to become King of Ancient Egypt. A woman of strong character, she acted as co-regent of Ancient Egypt for 20 years and worked hard to vastly improve the lives of all of her people. Her influence on the politics, trade, architecture and war during this time was immeasurable in the eyes and hearts of all who knew her and knew of her. Ancient Egypt was a peaceful civilization while Hatshepsut sat in the throne, dressed as a man to gather the admiration of her people. Peace rather than war found its way into Egyptian’s lives as they lived in harmony rather than tragedy. Tuthmosis III whom she shared the throne with led the army while she ruled the land. Wars were always businesslike and informative. This plan of attack resulted in no major wars while Hatshepsut was pharaoh. However, the forces were maintained efficiently despite the peaceful dent it carried. Many thousands of Egyptians lives were saved due to these 20 years of peace due to Hatshepsut’s keen political skills and her ability to jump every hurdle that came in her way. Hatshepsut ordered many trading expeditions during her time as King, which enabled Egyptians to live in domestic prosperity. Trade became an important part of her policy and many products returned in these expeditions can still be identified today in these lands. One of the most infamous trade expeditions was her voyage to Punt. Five ships sailed the Red Sea to Punt (now known as Somalia) with goods to exchange with the native people of Punt. Historians know of this voyage as the painted scenes of the expedition are seen today on the walls of her temple at Deir el-Bahri. Hatshepsut returned to Egypt with her ships carrying products Egyptians desired as dictated by the God Amon. The boats were laden with myrrh, frankincense, woods, resin, ivory...

Compensation of strategic network board

Compensation of strategic network board Firms have embarked on strategies that help catch up with the stiff competition in the market. As a result, they partner with other firms to form strategic networks that constitute many members. This arrangement enables them attain strategic renewal through sharing resources, participation in joint technological activities and drawing similar marketing strategies.Advertising We will write a custom article sample on Compensation of strategic network board specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More It is evident that this helps in strengthening the firm’s competitiveness; as a result, most governments and business related regulatory agencies support its implementation especially for small businesses. Another reason why many governments’ support this concept is because it assists firms to build independent entities that will help them address their deficiencies. Most importantly, to ensure the networks accomplish their goals, it is e ssential to establish a network board that will foresee their operations. This board might come in handy in situations where companies that have formed a network are experiencing problems related to insufficient resources (Thorgren, Wincent and Anokhin 131). The network board consists of firm’s representatives, experts in the industry or representatives of different related public agencies. Most importantly, the main responsibility of the network board is to augment network authenticity. Additionally, it heartens, harmonizes and offers support for joint activities among the networked firms. Basing on the roles played by this network board, it is essential that they are compensated so as to motivate them. It is obvious that the administrative structure that governs the operations of this board is different from the normal organization structure. This is because the board foresees the operations of more than one firm and each of them has its own administrative structure. Thus, the process of compensating the network board is far different from that of an organization’s board. As evident, this board acts as agents that link different organizations. Research has incorporated agency theory with stewardship theory to suggest that unforeseen events shape the affiliation linking networking firms and network board members in a way that can add weight to the effects of board compensation on network performance (Thorgren et al. 132). Analysis In this article, the author portrays the importance of the small businesses coming together and establishing an empire that will sustain them presently and in the future. In order for these businesses to succeed, they must form a board to foresee their operations. Additionally, this board must be compensated as a means of motivating it to perform its duties well.Advertising Looking for article on business economics? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More It i s noteworthy that the author’s qualification is certain as he brings out the most important facts concerning the avenue that leads to small businesses prosperity. Establishment of a strategic network by firms as presented by the author seems to be a practicable fact. However, the administrative structure that links these companies in a way to facilitate the compensation of this board does not seem to be practicable. It is obvious that the board members are derived from the industry. Thus, each stakeholder must compensate its representatives as part of its contribution towards the sustainability of the board. It is essential for the firms concerned to come up with well constructed strategies, which will ensure the costs incurred during compensation process are shared equally. Basing on this fact, it is an appropriate for firms to produce equal number of representatives on the board to ensure equivalent contribution towards their compensation. In as much as the article portrays the importance of compensating the network board members, it does not give the criteria to be employed when administering the compensation. It is a fact that the compensation strategy is a critical issue that needs to be addressed in detail. Some experts reveal that issues arising from the compensation strategy might result to controversies, hence collapse of the strategic networks. In the establishment of these networks, it is essential for its proposers to put in mind the fact that it requires a lot of consultation to link the companies. In the board, it is essential to constitute experts with experience on joint company ventures. This acts as a mitigation measure incase there occurs future disagreements. Application It is noted that, this information is important in business as it depicts ways in which different companies can combine their resources to come up with a solid venture able to outdo its competitors. The information on compensation of the network board is necessary to companies that are already in strategic network as it enlightens them on ways of strengthening their links. Most importantly, this information is essential to the management as it reveals a rough idea of what to expect when they involve their institutions in strategic networks. Additionally, this information is vital to institutions already in involved in strategic network but having problems to do with the compensation and constitution of the network board. Conclusion As evident, stiff competition in the market leads to employment of new strategies to enable firms catch up with the market leaders. Thus, there are companies that opt for the strategic network so as to combine their resources; as a result, it boosts their market share. In any organization, employee motivation is considered essential because it ensures more productivity.Advertising We will write a custom article sample on Compensation of strategic network board specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Thus, for the strategic network board to be motivated it should receive compensation from the network partners. It is appropriate for each company to have a representative on the board so that their interests are well represented. Furthermore, a company will be well represented if the individual has got formal links with the company and understands what goes on in the company. The board’s success is determined by the mode of treatment and concern it receives from the stakeholder. Thus, its compensation is an important element that will boost their working morale. As evident, the compensation process must be well structured so as to ensure there are no obstacles towards the implementation of the strategic network. Hence, the parties involved must seek the advice and guidance of experts before executing this strategy. Work Cited Thorgren, Sara. Wincent, Joakim. Anokhin, Sergey. The Importance of Compensating Strategic Network Board Members for Network Performance: A Contingency Approach. British Journal of Management, 2010, 21:Â  131–151. Print.

Effective Speech Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Effective Speech - Assignment Example The opposition to Glenn’s argument is the fact that many people think those who express so much privacy are wrongdoers and have a lot to hide. However, the fact is, everyone has things that they do privately to avoid the judging eyes of the public. There are instincts that make people uncomfortable without privacy. The privacy is required by everyone because it is human nature.He related his topic to me by addressing it directly to the audience that back in our minds we know we cannot do without privacy. We all need to be protected from the judging eyes of many who have opinions that are different from ours. That way I was able to analyze myself and realized that his point was right.His most persuasive evidence was the fact that nobody was ever willing to disclose their private information and security passwords to their emails and other private networks. His unique facts were that when everyone has the mindset that someone could be watching them, they tend to be more obedient and do the right as compared to when people are in private. To support that point, he quoted sayings from re-known people, for example, a quote that says whoever does not move does not notice this change.From Glenn’s speech, I will take away the delivery style to help in strengthening my argument, content, and delivery in my persuasive speech. His good style helps to make sure everyone understands his ideas. He also tries his best to maintain the attention of the audience. He uses the best tone to drive his message home.

Book Report on Don't Fire Them, Fire Them Up by Frank Pacetta Essay

Book Report on Don't Fire Them, Fire Them Up by Frank Pacetta - Essay Example Although he mentions that an individual is an essential element in any organization, the role of the team or group is emphasized more in the book. This perspective eliminates possible jealousy and unhealthy competition within the organization, thus creating an atmosphere of teamwork and cooperation. Pacetta outlines principles that are doable in both non-military and military settings since the underlying principles of motivation and teamwork are essential in any successful organizational environment. LEADERSHIP IN MANAGEMENT 3 Leadership Principles in Management There are several principles on effective leadership that Frank Pacetta discusses in his book. According to â€Å"The One Minute Manager† author Kenneth Blanchard, leadership skills focused on people are significant for leaders who know that the work force is the primary resource of any organization (Nohria & Groysberg, 2008). In Pacetta’s (1994) book, he touches on the extraordinary potential of a well-directe d and highly motivated human spirit. Although some say that the book is more of a marketing and sales guide because Pacetta (1994) first applies his ideas on marketing and sales, the overall concept discussed in the book is applicable to any organizational setting, corporate or non-corporate. In the book, creating loyalty and developing trust is one of Pacetta’s (1994) important leadership principles. Loyalty and trust creates an atmosphere of teamwork and dependability. Additionally, he mentioned that establishing accountability and encouraging the process of giving constructive feedback is a vital part in an organization. The value of accountability pushes the concept of professional ethics, while feedback encourages working on possible areas of improvement that support continuous development. Generating passion and enthusiasm is also deemed essential. One must remember that a happy employee is a productive employee (Mrudula, 2006). Pacetta (1994) also mentions that a leade r’s ability to enliven, manage, and rebuild an organization is a necessary attitude that encourage employee trust to the organization’s management team. It reflects the internal strength of the organization, thereby promoting a sense of security among employees or members of the organization. To top it off, a leader’s capacity in pushing the organization to the top and maintaining its status at that level develops a sense of pride among every member of the organization. A leader is considered as the LEADERSHIP IN MANAGEMENT 4 one having command responsibility in every aspect of the organization, therefore making the position both challenging and crucial. Pacetta (1994) asserts that although there are normally 3 main reasons for organizational failures --- namely poor leadership, lack of enthusiasm, or skills deficiency --- poor leadership is almost always the main factor why organizations fail. The practicality of the leadership principles presented by Pacetta ( 1994) makes them applicable not only in corporate situations, but also in military settings. In order to realize success and continuous growth within any organizational set-up, there must be strong leadership skills and tactics, and flexibility in methods and processes building and

The Law Of The Contract Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

The Law Of The Contract - Essay Example Owing to this delay and damages, the firm suffered losses for not being able to complete the job in time. Dodgy Developers then decided to holdback payments of bills and in addition intended to claim losses from the supplier. In reply, Office Supplies asked for full payment and indicated that reimbursement of any losses is not a binding as per their 'Terms & Conditions 'of contract which state as below: Following these developments, Dodgy Developers desired to seek expert advises on the applicability of the above clause in particular. The following sections attempt to analyze and assess the situation for Dodgy Developers under the ambit of the 'English Contract Law' and advice appropriate line of action. required goods. The supplier or trader is 'Office Supplies' who further appointed an independent agent called 'Shifty Shifters' for transporting and delivering goods (workstations) to the buyer. The urgency of the project required Dodgy developers to call on their known supplier (had earlier business relations) 'Office Supplies' for supply of required workstations positively by 28th November. Office Supplies promptly expressed their acceptance by sending standard 'Terms & Conditions' of contracts. Under these circumstances this is a combination of oral and written contract and as both the supplier and buyer intended to conduct business, it is a valid contract [2]. The point here is that this is more of a unilateral contract on the supplier's terms and conditions and here 'time is the essence of contract' [3]. Another important point is that the supplier and purchaser having done such business before, are known to each other and under the eye of the law this is undoubtedly a "special relationship" validating the 'duty of care' [4] where both parties are required to proceed with a caring attitude of business dealings (For example see-Hedley Byrne & Co v Heller and Partners (1964). Here, the buyer was only prudent to rely on Office Supplies, his special sourcing point as he did on many previous occasions and under this condition the supplier is also expected, though not compulsorily, to extend a mutually risk-free and friendly term of contract. Esthetically, trust should not be responded by mistrust or by any terms protecting or camouflaging negligent conduct. The Applicable Laws & Legislations The principal laws governing contract in the UK are- the sale of goods Act, 1979, the supply of goods and services Act, 1982, Unfair contract terms Act, 1977 and the Unfair Terms in consumer contracts Regulations, 1994 [1]. However, in case of business-contract (as in this case), the supplier and the buyer can mutually and knowingly declare to impose some restriction clauses or provisions as 'Terms and Conditions' of contracts. Importantly, a trader dealing with a consumer, or dealing with any customer on his own written standard terms of business, cannot exclude or restrict his liability for breach of contract or allow himself to provide an inadequate service unless he can show that the clause satisfies the "test of reasonableness" [5]. Thus, even tough the case is legal; the supplier may not breach any common law duty in the form of protection clauses or terms and conditi

Biochemistry involves Essay Example for Free

Biochemistry involves Essay Biochemistry involves the study of biological processes and chemical analysis which include living organism’s reactions, chemical compounds and elements. Historically, biochemistry gained prominence in the early 20th century when research on origin of living organisms began, various forms of scientific methods where used toward the success the makeup, several questions raised where; how biochemists seek to know how the brain works, the effectiveness of molecular compounds on the immune system. Furthermore, they are interested in cellular replication, differentiation and the interconnecting relationship between cells and organs. They deal with the chemical explanation of inheritance (traits, character, etc. ) and disease. Apart from this, biochemist also determines how certain molecules such as proteins, nucleic acids, lipids, vitamins and hormones function and their involvement in metabolic processes. Mostly on regulation of chemical reactions in living cells because this shows the complex chemical reactions that occur in a wide variety of life forms. It provides the basis for advancement of medicine practically such as veterinary medicine, agriculture science and biotechnology and exciting new fields such as molecular genetics, bioengineering etc. The developed knowledge and methods are applied to in all fields of medicine, agriculture, chemical and health related industries. Biochemistry also provides a unique research on protein structures and functions, genetic engineering and the two basic components of the rapidly expanding field of biotechnology. Being the vastest of all biological sciences, biochemistry has many fields namely neurochemistry, bio-organic chemistry, immunochemistry, physical biochemistry, molecular genetics, biochemical pharmacology and clinical biochemistry. Recent progress in these areas have developed a relationship between technology, chemical engineering, computer engineering. Reference: †¢ Biochemistry. (2008). ISCID Encyclopedia of Science and Philosophy. Retrieved April 07, 2008 from http://www. iscid. org/encyclopedia/Biochemistry †¢ Mendoza, H. M. , Shen, L. N. , Botting, C. , Lewis, A. , Chen, J. , Ink, B. , et al. (2003). NEDP1, a highly conserved cysteine protease that deNEDDylates Cullins. Journal of Biological Chemistry, 278, 25637-25643.

The World of Retail :: Consumerism Shopping Stores Essays

The World of Retail As a consumer, I have often wondered how stores keep everything neat, while other consumers always seem to dirty everything in the store. There are many attributes to a store that customers do not understand. It wasn't until I started working in the retailing community that I realized how much work is involved and the process by which everything is done. Charlotte Russe is a women's clothing store, located next to Victoria's Secret and across from American Outpost between district one and nine at the Great Lakes Crossing Mall, in Auburn Hills, Michigan. As you walk into the store you feel like it's a store for just for just teenagers, but when you look around there are casual clothes as well as suiting for older women. We carry sizes 0-13 in pants and S-L in shirts, so there is a very large selection of clothing in the store. Whether you're out for a night on the town, or just a quiet night at home in your pajamas, we carry everything from boots right down to your underwear. The store is fairly large- bigger than most of the other stores in the mall. When you first walk in you see boots on display on a table. You walk in front of the store and you see mannequins under bright lights wearing the latest fashions. The store is very well lit and not very many shadows are cast- there are lights all over the ceiling. Behind the boots are the racks of clothing that are constantly being straightened. To the left and right of the middle of the store are aisle-ways that lead back to the "cash wrap" and the back of the store where the fitting rooms are. The sides of the store are walls filled with clothing. Along the walls there are mirrors placed between certain types of clothing (for example, there is a mirror between the club clothing and holiday ware). Located in the very center of the store is where the "cash wrap" is located. The cash wrap consists of five registers that are inlayed in the countertops so people can look down and see what is being wrung up. Rig ht next to the register is a Sensormatic machine that takes the theft tags off of the clothing. Under the register is a drawer that is filled with bags. Behind the register is a closet where we put the clothing that people want to put on hold.

The Host Chapter 14: Disputed

It was too much for both of us, seeing him here, now, after already accepting that we'd never see him again, after believing that we'd lost him forever. It froze me solid, made me unable to react. I wanted to look at Uncle Jeb, to understand his heartbreaking answer in the desert, but I couldn't move my eyes. I stared at Jared's face, uncomprehending. Melanie reacted differently. â€Å"Jared,† she cried; through my damaged throat the sound was just a croak. She jerked me forward, much the same way as she had in the desert, assuming control of my frozen body. The only difference was that this time, it was by force. I wasn't able to stop her fast enough. She lurched forward, raising my arms to reach out for him. I screamed a warning at her in my head, but she wasn't listening to me. She was barely aware that I was even there. No one tried to stop her as she staggered toward him. No one but me. She was within inches of touching him, and still she didn't see what I saw. She didn't see how his face had changed in the long months of separation, how it had hardened, how the lines pulled in different directions now. She didn't see that the unconscious smile she remembered would not physically fit on this new face. Only once had she seen his face turn dark and dangerous, and that expression was nothing to the one he wore now. She didn't see, or maybe she didn't care. His reach was longer than mine. Before Melanie could make my fingers touch him, his arm shot out and the back of his hand smashed into the side of my face. The blow was so hard that my feet left the ground before my head slammed into the rock floor. I heard the rest of my body hit the floor with dull thumps, but I didn't feel it. My eyes rolled back in my head, and a ringing sound shimmered in my ears. I fought the dizziness that threatened to spin me unconscious. Stupid, stupid, I whimpered at her. I told you not to do that! Jared's here, Jared's alive, Jared's here. She was incoherent, chanting the words like they were lyrics to a song. I tried to focus my eyes, but the strange ceiling was blinding. I twisted my head away from the light and then swallowed a sob as the motion sent daggers of agony through the side of my face. I could barely handle the pain of this one spontaneous blow. What hope did I have of enduring an intensive, calculated onslaught? There was a shuffle of feet beside me; my eyes moved instinctively to find the threat, and I saw Uncle Jeb standing over me. He had one hand half stretched out toward me, but he hesitated, looking away. I raised my head an inch, stifling another moan, to see what he saw. Jared was walking toward us, and his face was the same as those of the barbarians in the desert-only it was beautiful rather than frightening in its fury. My heart faltered and then beat unevenly, and I wanted to laugh at myself. Did it matter that he was beautiful, that I loved him, when he was going to kill me? I stared at the murder in his expression and tried to hope that rage would win out over expediency, but a true death wish evaded me. Jeb and Jared locked eyes for a long moment. Jared's jaw clenched and unclenched, but Jeb's face was calm. The silent confrontation ended when Jared suddenly exhaled in an angry gust and took a step back. Jeb reached down for my hand and put his other arm around my back to pull me up. My head whirled and ached; my stomach heaved. If it hadn't been empty for days, I might have thrown up. It was like my feet weren't touching the ground. I wobbled and pitched forward. Jeb steadied me and then gripped my elbow to keep me standing. Jared watched all this with a teeth-baring grimace. Like an idiot, Melanie struggled to move toward him again. But I was over the shock of seeing him here and less stupid than she was now. She wouldn't break through again. I locked her away behind every bar I could create in my head. Just be quiet. Can't you see how he loathes me? Anything you say will make it worse. We're dead. But Jared's alive, Jared's here, she crooned. The quiet in the cavern dissolved; whispers came from every side, all at the same time, as if I'd missed some cue. I couldn't make out any meanings in the hissing murmurs. My eyes darted around the mob of humans-every one of them an adult, no smaller, younger figure among them. My heart ached at the absence, and Melanie fought to voice the question. I hushed her firmly. There wasn't anything to see here, nothing but anger and hatred on strangers' faces, or the anger and hatred on Jared's face. Until another man pushed his way through the whispering throng. He was built slim and tall, his skeletal structure more obvious under his skin than most. His hair was washed out, either pale brown or a dark, nondescript blond. Like his bland hair and his long body, his features were mild and thin. There was no anger in his face, which was why it held my eye. The others made way for this apparently unassuming man as if he had some status among them. Only Jared didn't defer to him; he held his ground, staring only at me. The tall man stepped around him, not seeming to notice the obstacle in his path any more than he would a pile of rock. â€Å"Okay, okay,† he said in an oddly cheery voice as he circled Jared and came to face me. â€Å"I'm here. What have we got?† It was Aunt Maggie who answered him, appearing at his elbow. â€Å"Jeb found it in the desert. Used to be our niece Melanie. It seemed to be following the directions he gave her.† She flashed a dirty look at Jeb. â€Å"Mm-hm,† the tall, bony man murmured, his eyes appraising me curiously. It was strange, that appraisal. He looked as if he liked what he saw. I couldn't fathom why he would. My gaze shied away from his, to another woman-a young woman who peered around his side, her hand resting on his arm-my eyes drawn by her vivid hair. Sharon! Melanie cried. Melanie's cousin saw the recognition in my eyes, and her face hardened. I pushed Melanie roughly to the back of my head. Shhh! â€Å"Mm-hm,† the tall man said again, nodding. He reached one hand out to my face and seemed surprised when I recoiled from it, flinching into Jeb's side. â€Å"It's okay,† the tall man said, smiling a little in encouragement. â€Å"I won't hurt you.† He reached toward my face again. I shrunk into Jeb's side like before, but Jeb flexed his arm and nudged me forward. The tall man touched my jaw below my ear, his fingers gentler than I expected, and turned my face away. I felt his finger trace a line on the back of my neck, and I realized that he was examining the scar from my insertion. I watched Jared's face from the corner of my eye. What this man was doing clearly upset him, and I thought I knew why-how he must have hated that slender pink line on my neck. Jared frowned, but I was surprised that some of the anger had drained from his expression. His eyebrows pulled together. It made him look confused. The tall man dropped his hands and stepped away from me. His lips were pursed, his eyes alight with some challenge. â€Å"She looks healthy enough, aside from some recent exhaustion, dehydration, and malnourishment. I think you've put enough water back into her so that the dehydration won't interfere. Okay, then.† He made an odd, unconscious motion with his hands, as if he were washing them. â€Å"Let's get started.† Then his words and his brief examination fit together and I understood-this gentle-seeming man who had just promised not to hurt me was the doctor. Uncle Jeb sighed heavily and closed his eyes. The doctor held a hand out to me, inviting me to put mine in his. I clenched my hands into fists behind my back. He looked at me carefully again, appraising the terror in my eyes. His mouth turned down, but it was not a frown. He was considering how to proceed. â€Å"Kyle, Ian?† he called, craning his neck to search the assembly for the ones he summoned. My knees wobbled when the two big black-haired brothers pressed their way forward. â€Å"I think I need some help. Maybe if you were to carry -† the doctor, who did not look quite so tall standing beside Kyle, began to say. â€Å"No.† Everyone turned to see where the dissent had come from. I didn't need to look, because I recognized the voice. I looked at him anyway. Jared's eyebrows pressed down hard over his eyes; his mouth was twisted into a strange grimace. So many emotions ran across his face, it was hard to pin one down. Anger, defiance, confusion, hatred, fear†¦ pain. The doctor blinked, his face going slack with surprise. â€Å"Jared? Is there a problem?† â€Å"Yes.† Everyone waited. Beside me, Jeb was holding the corners of his lips down as if they were trying to lift into a grin. If that was the case, then the old man had an odd sense of humor. â€Å"And it is?† the doctor asked. Jared answered through his teeth. â€Å"I'll tell you the problem, Doc. What's the difference between letting you have it or Jeb putting a bullet in its head?† I trembled. Jeb patted my arm. The doctor blinked again. â€Å"Well† was all he said. Jared answered his own question. â€Å"The difference is, if Jeb kills it, at least it dies cleanly.† â€Å"Jared.† The doctor's voice was soothing, the same tone he'd used on me. â€Å"We learn so much each time. Maybe this will be the time -â€Å" â€Å"Hah!† Jared snorted. â€Å"I don't see much progress being made, Doc.† Jared will protect us, Melanie thought faintly. It was hard to concentrate enough to form words. Not us, just your body. Close enough†¦ Her voice seemed to come from some distance, from outside my pounding head. Sharon took a step forward so that she stood half in front of the doctor. It was a strangely protective stance. â€Å"There's no point in wasting an opportunity,† she said fiercely. â€Å"We all realize that this is hard for you, Jared, but in the end it's not your decision to make. We have to consider what's best for the majority.† Jared glowered at her. â€Å"No.† The word was a snarl. I could tell he had not whispered the word, yet it was very quiet in my ears. In fact, everything was suddenly quiet. Sharon's lips moved, her finger jabbed at Jared viciously, but all I heard was a soft hissing. Neither one of them took a step, but they seemed to be drifting away from me. I saw the dark-haired brothers step toward Jared with angry faces. I felt my hand try to rise in protest, but it only twitched limply. Jared's face turned red when his lips parted, and the tendons in his neck strained like he was shouting, but I heard nothing. Jeb let go of my arm, and I saw the dull gray of the rifle's barrel swing up beside me. I cringed away from the weapon, though it was not pointed in my direction. This upset my balance, and I watched the room tip very slowly to one side. â€Å"Jamie,† I sighed as the light swirled away from my eyes. Jared's face was suddenly very close, leaning over me with a fierce expression. â€Å"Jamie?† I breathed again, this time a question. â€Å"Jamie?† Jeb's gruff voice answered from somewhere far away. â€Å"The kid is fine. Jared brought him here.† I looked at Jared's tormented face, fast disappearing into the dark mist that covered my eyes. â€Å"Thank you,† I whispered. And then I was lost in the darkness.