Neurological Disorders Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Neurological Disorders - Research Paper Example Asia particularly the West and Central areas also are not spared from the disorder. Russia, Middle East and India have high prevalence of neurological disorders with multiple sclerosis on the top list. With this situation, not only the budget of the country and families with neurological cases are challenged but also in the treatment and researches. The discussion of pathophysiology, prognosis, treatment, considerations, and impact on self and family may lead to a better understanding of the disease. Among the neurological disorder that is of interest is the Parkinson’s disease. Parkinson’s disease is a slow degenerative disorder of the central nervous system affecting the cognitive, motor, and other bodily functions (Tortora, 2008). Despite the many medical researches that were conducted regarding the Parkinson illness, it still is the second neurological disorder affecting many. Unfortunately, the treatments are focused not on Parkinson itself but on alleviating the s igns and symptoms of it because the cause is unknown. It is believed that the disorder is the result of the interplay of genetics and the environment. It has been known that mutations in the genes are being passed from one generation to the next. Other factors like smoking, toxins, and deficiency in vitamin E are all contributory factors to the sensitivity of the nervous system which may in turn elicit its prevalence. Age is also found to be another culprit of the disease. In the study of Stephen and company (2003), they revealed that the rapid increase of incidences occur at the age of 60 with lesser percentage of victims below 50 of both sexes. They further found out that ethnicity and race also plays a role in the prevalence of Parkinson. Physiological Basis Although the pathophysiology of Parkinson’s disease is not fully understood, the disorder is a result of the interplay of several factors. Normally, stimulus from either outside or within the body causes impulses that could travel several meters along the billion neurons in just seconds to the brain. The impulse travels to the pre synaptic axons where it activates calcium gated channels that may trigger calcium influx. This may in turn activate neurotransmitters which diffuse into the synaptic gaps of the myelinated sheath to stimulate the next node. Thus, impulses leap from node to node along the mylelinated sheath until it is conducted to the brain for interpretation and proper action to take place. The fastest impulses involve those that innervate the skeletal muscles (Thibodeau & Patton, 2003). This might be the reason why individuals can retrieve their hands immediately if subjected to hot iron. Furthermore, actions are refined with the help of chemicals in the brain to adjust and guide actions. In the case of Parkinson’s disease, neurons of the substantia nigra undergo degeneration resulting in dopamine depletion. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter related to purposeful movement that inh ibits the excitatory action of another neurotransmitter called acetylcholine to maintain balance. In addition, it controls emotion and pleasure. Dopamine is believed to be located within the nuclei thus the role of cerebral nuclei is very crucial in Parkinson disorder. Cerebral nuclei are diencephalic gray matters located in the cerebral cortex within the basal ganglia that function to inhibit several motor actions. For the cerebral nuclei to function normally, neurons from

Observation Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Observation - Essay Example I also observed that the center maintains a well manicured garden with beautiful flowers and lawn. This school is multiracial and it caters for children from different backgrounds. Overall, the standards maintained at this center are par excellence and everyone feels welcome to this particular center which is well secured. I also observed that the classroom level is ideal for the children. The children sit in groups of six and the furniture is arranged in a rectangular fashion such that the teacher can monitor each child at any given time. The teacher mainly uses teaching aids such as charts and pictures and other drawings to explain different things to the children who are still in the early stages of development. The teacher uses the chalk board to illustrate different things to the children. I also observed that the teacher uses different pictures to test the knowledge of the children if they know the symbols shown. The teacher relates well with the students and she is not selective despite the fact that the children come from different races. I was impressed to realise that the teacher knows all the students in her class. I also observed a lesson where the teacher wanted to test the knowledge of the children if they know different animals. She used picture aids in this lesson where she will lift a picture showing a certain animal. She would then randomly call any student to name the animal. This lesson was very eventful since all the students were excited and eager to participate. The children learnt a lot of things in this lesson and some of them would even describe where the animals shown on the pictures live. In my own view, I think the teacher is experienced for this job. It is quite challenging for other people to teach early child development classes but I discovered that the teacher greatly enjoyed her work. She interacted in a cordial manner with the students and she spoke to them in a motherly manner. The

Analysis On Strategies Used To Facilitate Workplace Learning Nursing Essay

Analysis On Strategies Used To Facilitate Workplace Learning Nursing Essay The aim of this assignment is to reflect on and analyse, strategies used to facilitate learning with a newly qualified member of staff in the authors working environment. The new member of staff will be referred to as the student during this assignment. This paper will show how one particular teaching session relates to theories of learning. Reflection has been defined by Taylor ( 2000 ) as : The throwing back of thoughts and memories, in cognitive acts such as thinking, contemplation, meditation and any other form of attentive consideration, in order to make sense of them, and so make contextually appropriate changes if required. However, the definitions from Boyd Fales (1983) and Dewey (1996), who considers that it is purposeful activity in thinking about an experience, through which learning takes place. Boyd and Fales focus more on self development. Here reflection does not only add to our knowledge but challenges the concepts and theories we hold. Furthermore as a result we dont see more, we see differently. The reflective process is at least to some degree conscious, but may not be verbalized. The author also, believes and agrees with John (2004), that reflection is often triggered by feelings and greatly influences decision making. This emphasises the importance of reflection in practice. The English National Board (ENB) and the Department of Health (DOH) 2001 defined a mentor as: denoting the role of the nurse, midwife or health visitor who facilitates learning and supervises and assesses students in practice setting would seem to be the most appropriate one to use. DOH (2001) identified that mentors need to possess a wide range of skills and to undergo a more dynamic Candidate Number 2350818 preparation in order to equip students for their working life in todays modernised, demanding National Health Services (NHS). Although this is the definition that exemplify the entirety of the mentoring role. The author feels this definition gives a somewhat rigid approach to being a mentor and find agreeable to the definition by Morton-Cooper and Palmer (2000) who states A mentor is someone who provides an enabling relationship that facilitates anothers personal growth towards competent practice and high standard making the learning experience an enjoyable and mentally fulfilling. This definition encompasses the emotional and personal part of the relationship, whether positive or negative, which the author feels is of the greatest possible degree of importance for a beneficial learning experience for both the learner and the mentor. In Intensive Care Unit (ICU), all new members of staff must have completed four weeks of supernumerary period to acquire the necessary knowledge and skills to safely look after a critically ill patient. In planning to teach my student, The author need to accomplish three important aims as discussed by Wong et al, (1998); Conway and McMillan, (2000); cited in Jackson and Mannix (2001) p270, provide student with the opportunity to develop their clinical skills; Integrate theory and practice; and, assist their socialization into nursing. Prior to undertaking teaching of the student, the author ensured that the student had set realistic goals and clear learning objectives and also, encouraged to question things that were not clear or difficult to understand. After much consideration based on the students learning needs, it was reciprocally agreed that the skill of zeroing of CVP and Arterial line would be one of the essential skills taught in ICU. (Appendix II) The learner expressed the need to learn this particular skills, and Rogers (1996) views that learning is accomplished when a person feel a need, makes effort to meet that need, and feels satisfaction with the result of his effort. The student appeared keen to learn, and Hinchcliff (2001), views motivation as the major factor that encourages students to learn, and Oliver and Endersby (1994), see motivation as one of the most basic conditions for learning. Motivation is heavily influenced by need, and Gross (2005) believes Candidate Number 2350818 that how the motives underpinning behaviour are interpreted, depend upon the position of the work of a theorist or psychologist. Maslow (1970), while theorising human need, recognised that only when the needs lower down in the hierarchy are satisfied, the higher need will be met. The Intensive Care Unit is often very busy and stressful, and within the role of educator the author was very aware that the learner needed time away from the unit to wind down, as she could be very easily become over tired. On reflection, this connects with the evaluation process of Gibbs reflective cycle, in ascertaining what was good about the experience. The ICU has its own staff lounge away from the unit where tea and coffee is provided. Frequent breaks, comfortable chairs, a television, and availability of refreshments are what Rogers, cited in Downie (2003) views as necessary for providing human comfort and resulting in meeting physiological needs. Maslows theory made a significant contribution of humanist thinking and the self actualization. The learning outcomes developed from our discussion wer e for the student to; Increase knowledge of zeroing CVP/Arterial Lines; Prepare resources and equipment correctly with minimal prompting or assistance; carrying out the procedure using aseptic technique, efficiently and record the nursing procedure in the care plan or patient record. (Appendix III) In order to do this, the author needed to look at the nature of the learning process. It is therefore crucial when setting out to undertake a mentoring role that there is an understanding of the way the adults learn. Learning can be defined formally as the act, process, or experience of gaining knowledge or skills Conner, (1997). Facilitation of learning is defined by the Royal College of Nursing, RCN as a well-planned learning opportunity with the provision to coach and support students RCN, (2002). This is supported by the Department of Health DOH, which adds that facilitation of learning allows students to develop opportunities to identify experiences that meet their learning needs DOH, (2001). Facilitation of adult learning is described by Banning (cited on Warren 2010) as the ideas and theories that are accredited to prior experiences which need to be complemented by interaction and adult-orientated strategies. A successful mentor is able to transform previous experiences via Candidate Number 2350818 experimental learning, enabling the student to make sense and learn from the experiences gained. However, facilitating student learning is not always easy in practice. Garrison et al (2004) remind us that while teaching the nursing leaders of the future, we do so in chaotic setting which is, in effect, an unhelpful learning environment. More recently, Swinny and Brady (cited on Warren 2010) found that, on a ward setting, mentors have difficulty finding time to teach because of the busy and demanding nature of clinical environment. An understanding of some theories is helpful to a mentor as it provides them with an opportunity to examine their own beliefs and assumptions about people, knowledge, motivation, environment, assessment and other factors necessary with learning Nicklin and Kenworthy, (2000). Learning help us move from novice to expert and allow us to gain new knowledge and ability. Benner, (1984). These theories provide framework for studying the processes associated with learning. Learning theories of behaviourism, cognitivism and humanism have attempted to provide explanation about learning that applies to people in general. In order to see the full potential in learning, knowledge of such theories are crucial to the success of the individual learner. Behaviourism argues that nearly all behaviour is learned. It is based on what is referred to as stimulus /response learning and originates with the Russian psychologist, Pavlovs work with the dogs whereby he linked one stimulus meat powder to a seco nd stimulus, the sound of a bell. This produced a salivation response and ultimately the dogs would salivate at the sound of the bell even in the absence of the meat powder. This experimentation produced Pavlovs theory of Classical Conditioning McKenna, (1995). The social learning theory developed by Albert Bandura could be useful within the affective areas of nursing in as much as the mentor behaves in ways he wants the learner to imitate, as a role modelling Knowles, (1990). He stressed the importance of modelling other behaviours, which is known as observational learning cited by Bahn, (2001). Because it encompasses attention, memory and motivation, social learning theory spans both cognitive and behavioural frameworks. Drawing upon humanistic psychology and behaviourism, Malcolm Knowles contributed to the art and science Candidate Number 2350818 of teaching adults, otherwise known as andragogy. This is in direct contrast to pedagogy which literally means a leader of children. Knowles bases his approach on his own observations on the differences between teaching adults and children. He argues that traditional education methods, with their emphasis on the teacher do not prepare the learner with the facility for lifelong learning. Knowles however does acknowledge that andragogy and pedagogy can work together, that could both be relevant for children and adult subject to circumstances and provided that the overall approach is andragogical. Pedagogical methods may be suitable is when new concept are being introduced to students Quinn, (2000). A day was planned in advance when the teaching would take place. The author had met on several occasions with the student therefore an introduction had been made. The author felt that effective communication is essential to facilitate learning, therefore adapted a friendly and approachable manner. (Appendix II) This view is supported by McKimm, J. (2007) who believes the learner is able to express their views and make errors when a sociable atmosphere is set and maintained. McKimm, J. (2007) also discusses the concept of teaching by humiliation and the author is very aware from past experience, of the negative effect of power relations, and so becoming more sensitive to the needs of the student. As a good example, the student had seen the procedure of zeroing the CVP line, carried out previously as a part of the daily routine with the mentor/author but had neither performed it nor understood the relevance of it. The author therefore decided that a written instruction for priming and zeroing of arterial/CVP line would be produced explaining why we zero the transducer and a detailed guide how to do the procedure. (Appendix III) While reflecting, this manifest aspect of learning period, and fits in with the evaluation phase of Gibbs reflective cycle (1988). Conversely, a negative experience was perceived during the evaluation phase of reflection when unfortunately the day set for the teaching session to take place was discontinued as the unit became very busy, involuntarily the author to asked for change of shift for a convenient day for the student. Subsequently the teaching session was Candidate Number 2350818 varied for the following day, which caused a huge amount of stress and anxiety as the student was psychologically prepared for the teaching to take place on that set day, not the next. The concept of stress and anxiety is a key psychological factor that influences teaching Quinn, (2000), and is a displeasing emotion occurring when threat or harm is anticipated, and results in generalised increased change of state. Individuals have a best level of change of state, under- change level of state results in a decreased level of learning performance and over-change of state an increased level of learning performance. Gross (2005) views that a complete absence of stress can be harmful, when humans are so relaxed they do not see a harmful situation developing, and a moderate amount of stress maintains alertness, providing energy requited to maintain interest and explore our environment. Therefore, stress is extremely detrimental when humans become stretched beyond their limit Gross, (2005). To complete the teaching session the student was given the opportunity to feed back and reflect on her learning experience. It seems that she felt the teaching session to be very helpful on her daily routine assessment and build her confidence. This has allowed the author to be productive in achieving personal goals set out in the learning contract (Appendix I ) and expects mentoring in the forthcoming. In conclusion, the author has gained an insight through reflection into the many different learning theories and strategies for learning that exist to aid in his forthcoming student. A surroundings that is beneficial, sociable and accommodating for learning. The improvement of knowledge and skills, sharing teaching and learning, and reflecting upon them both privately and with other mentors can embrace the personal and professional growth that one day all students will achieve. I I

Mass Extinction Essay -- K-T Extinction

ABSTRACT Several mass extinctions have occurred during the Earth’s history. The Cretaceous – Tertiary Boundary (K-T) Extinction caused the loss of at least three-quarters of all species known at that time including the dinosaurs. The cause of this mass extinction is a controversial subject among scientists but the fossil evidence of it’s occurrence is abundant. INTRODUCTION The K-T Extinction occurred 65 million years ago. Many species perished in that extinction. Today evidence for this extinction can be seen in the fossil record. Biological, botanical and geological evidence at the Cretaceous – Tertiary Boundary show that some enormous event occurred that caused mass extinction of life on the Earth. Controversy about the cause of the K-T extinction exists with two main theories currently being in favour. One theory is called Intrinsic Gradualism and believes the cause of the K-T Extinction was a slow and gradual Earth generated event, caused by intense volcanic activity and the effect of plate tectonics. The second theory is known as Extrinsic Catastrophism and proposes that the K-T Extinction was caused by a sudden and violent catastrophic event such as the Earth being struck by a meteor or asteroid. The K-T Extinction supports the concept of Punctuated Equilibrium in evolution because surviving species evolved and others were exterminated. Th is creates the stepladder effect of evolution seen in the fossil record . THE K-T EXTINCTION The Cretaceous period occurred between 144 and 65 million years ago. The K-T Extinction is an event that happened at the end of this period 65 million years ago. By the beginning of the Tertiary period eighty-five percent of all species disappeared, making it the second largest mass extinction event in geological history (â€Å"The End-Cretaceous (K-T) Extinction†, accessed 2000). Among the species that perished were the dinosaurs, pterosaurs, belemnoids, many species of plants, except ferns and seed-producing plants, ammonoids, marine reptiles and rudist bivalves. Severely affected organisms included planktic foraminifera, calcareous nannnoplankton, diatoms, dinoflagellates, brachiopods, mollusca, echinoids and fish. Mammals, birds, turtles, crocodiles, lizards, snakes and amphibians fared much better and were mostly unaffected by the End-Cretaceous mass extinction (â€Å"The End-cretaceous (K-T) Extinction†, accessed 2000... ...pdated 1995, accessed 3 Sept. 2000), Dino Buzz – What killed The Dinosaurs ? – Current Arguments, http://www.ucmp.berkeley.edu/diapsids/extinctheory.html Lowood, H. 1998 (updated 7 Sept 1999, accessed 30 June 2000), Stanford Presidential Lectures and Symposia in the Humanities and Arts, Stephen Jay Gould, http: //prelectur.stanford.edu/lecturers/gould/index.html Smith, P.L. 1997a (updated 1997, accessed 3 Sept. 2000), Biological Evidence, http://www.science.ubc.ca/~geol313/lecture/kt/biol/biol.htm Smith, P.L. 1997b (updated 1997, accessed 3 Sept. 2000), The Marine Realm, http://www.science.ubc.ca/~geol313/lecture/kt/biol/marine/marine.htm Smith, P.L. 1997c (updated 1997, accessed 3 Sept. 2000), The Terrestrial Realm, http://www.science.ubc.ca/~geol313/lecture/kt/biol/terres/terres.htm Smith, P.L. 1997d (updated 1997, accessed 3 Sept. 2000), Geological Evidence, http://www.science.ubc.ca/~geol313/lecture/kt/geol/geol.htm â€Å"Speculated Causes of the End-Cretaceous Extinction† (accessed 3 Sept. 2000), http://www.wf.carleton.ca/Museum/cretcause.htm â€Å"The End-Cretaceous (K-T) Extinction† (accessed 3 Sept. 2000), http://www.wf.carleton.ca/Museum/cretmass.htm

Education-Reading Assessment Essay

In determining books for elementary-grade children, it is important that I consider their curriculum as well as the level of their understanding and interest. Children have different interests. By this time, they are also starting to read on their own. Thus, books that they can read-along with, with subjects that they can associate with and learn from are my best choices. Not all elementary-grade children will like the same books. For children to develop interest in reading, it is also essential for them to be able to choose the books that they like. Thus, I should have several books tackling different subjects which children can choose from. If I must present or read a book aloud, I should try to choose something that can also be incorporated with sound effects such as animal or character stories. This way, I can get the attention of the children while we read. 2. Describe a creative way to document writing progress. Cite sources that you used to help you create this method. A good way to document writing progress is through a student journal. Students will be asked to keep a daily account according to specific instructions that will be given to them throughout the week. For example, for week one, they are going to write 100-word personal essays about a tangible thing. They are supposed to talk about one different thing for each day. Then, for week two they are going to write 100-word persuasive essays about anything that they think they should persuade people to believe, and so on. This method tackles the different areas of writing progress. It helps the students improve their writing vocabulary because of the daily exercise. It also entitles the students an exercise of the different aims of writing. The students will also be able to be sensitive about instructions while on the process of composing. According to the National Assessment Governing Board of the US Department of Education (2007), students need to know the definite expectation in their compositions. This does not only help them come up with more competitive essays that will mark higher, it will also make it easier for the teacher to streamline the evaluation and grading criteria. Busch, Hall and Lembke (2007) agree, stating that curriculum-based monitoring criteria are effective in measuring improvement of students. A journal is also a creative way to make the students write without pressure, instead of giving them daily writing seatwork which can give them the impression that they are pressured and tired. 3. How can you monitor children’s growth in spelling? Why have you chosen this method for monitoring? Curriculum-based monitoring (CBM) to measure spelling progress is a good method for assessing the improvement in children’s spelling. This can be done by dictating a list of words to spell to students. The words should match their current vocabulary level. Students are then expected to write down the words. A time limit will be necessary. (Busch, Hall and Lembke 2007) In scoring spelling activities using the CBM method, the words may be scored two ways. One is with correct spelling and another is through letter sequences, where letters placed in the correct sequence gets points. In this method, the total score is the total number of letters in the word—and each word is scored separately. With proper implementation, it is effective in gauging and monitoring the current level of a student’s spelling abilities. It is also creative and encouraging in such as way that students will not get frustrated over low spelling marks. Because they will realize that there are some words that they did not get correctly, they are encouraged to try harder for the next exercise. In the process, the students do not only see that their spelling was wrong, they also know what went wrong and how to remedy it. 4. Find a reading formula that you think you could use with a struggling reader. Name the formula. What have researchers written about the formula? Why do you think it will be productive? The Spache readability formula is a good tool for struggling readers. Dawson (nd) states that it matches readers up to the third grade, which makes the text easier for struggling readers of all levels as compared to texts which used the Dale-Chall formula. Moreover, Welna (nd) asserts that Spache matches actual classroom reading levels and is widely used. Coping with a struggling reader requires both patience and proper metrics. The use of Spache will not only ensure that the reader is starting at an early level, it also introduces new words and increases vocabulary. As the readers goes along, the Spache level of reading materials can be increased accordingly to introduce newer words and more complex sentences. Struggling readers need encouragement and one way that they can get this is with step by step reading guidance and monitoring. By introducing reading materials that are one score step at a time according to the Spache formula, the reader will slowly develop his reading skills. He will also feel positive about reading if he realizes that he is slowly conquering his own difficulties. On a technical note, because Spache is widely used, the reader is also assured that the level of reading metrics that he is achieving is similar with the skills developed in other students. References Busch,T. , Hall, T. , and Lembke, E. 2007. Using CBM for progress monitoring in written expression and spelling. Retrieved September 2, 2008, from http://www. studentprogress. org/summer_institute/2007/Written/ProgressMonitoring-Writing_2007. pdf Dawson, J. nd. How to choose the best readability formula for your document. Retrieved September 2, 2008, from http://www. streetdirectory. com/travel_guide/15675/writing/how_to_choose_the_best_readability_formula_for_your_document. html National Assessment Governing Board of the US Department of Education. 2007. Writing framework and specifications for the 2007 national assessment of educational progress. Retrieved September 2, 2008, from http://www. nagb. org/frameworks/writing-framework-07. pdf

Concept of Epigenetics

The basic concept of epigenetic is a simple pattern for human development. There are different marks needed to expedite these marks which some include encoding RONA'S, DNA meditation and even CPA denunciations. Epigenetic work very complicated they maintain the cell cycle which changes the differences when it comes to expressing genes without changing the DNA sequence.When dealing with germ cells and the developing embryo the reprogramming and remaking the right amount of epigenetic when it comes to the major time periods of placement in cell types. The early regulation of development includes the X- chromosome being active and starts to imprint they will eventually change in time respectively. Disorders- There could be lots of disorders that can be lead by epigenetic like Subjectivity and imprinting disorders to humans. Also plenty of Phenotype variation that runs from normal variation to human disease/disorders. There are lots of environmental affects to the human and offspring.The re have been studies that nutrition has something to do with the death rate with articulators disease and diseases which could be passed on from offspring to offspring whether its dads side or moms. Studies show that if a father doesn't have enough food or nutrients in a certain period of time most likely when hitting puberty his offspring are less likely to die from cardiovascular diseases. Surprisingly if food is plenty for a certain period time then offspring are more likely to get disease. Changes in diet can change genes which are then passed down to offspring from male.Technology- Plenty of changes to epigenetic technology. Some of these changes include how processes not Just at specific genes but can also study the changes in epigenetic that Just occurred. There have also been techniques used to assess the enzymes which make it easier for people using the machine and trying to study the enzymes. Issues Economical- This field of epigenetic has been growing and researchers say that this means that the market for investors will open up. There is a project called â€Å"The Cancer Genome Atlas† this project made $50 million from different institutes.This project also made a grant total of $3. 5 million which has a goal in mind that epigenetic changes that cause cancer. Souses comment that this money is small and will grow in the coming years. Companies have been making epigenetic drugs for the public and to put on the market, but this is tough for people to reach since epigenetic is infancy. Political- Some people could take advantages from this issue and may benefit them while it will be the complete opposite for others. There will be privacy issues to play in on an individual. The law system doesn't have any for epigenetic data.With this the digitization of medical records which holds a lot of information of a person could be stolen/lost a lot more significantly numbers could be increasing. Societal- Environmental changes can happen since there are epigenetic phenomena. Plenty of these changes are made in the beginning of one's development and can have a major impact for a individuals life span. Lots of evidence that epigenetic types can be generational inherited in animals as well. But on the other hand gives the inheritance a longer life span. Environmental and Ethical IssuesEpigenetic can cause lots of diseases to offspring's. The epigenetic causes effects in fetus which can have obesity and have a shorter life span. It can have a major response to the environment and can intake during pregnancy or the growth of a child. During puberty for both genders male and female both directly have impact the health of subsequent offspring due to the DNA patterns. This mechanism if changed the availability of methodology or changing enzymes could have a major effect. But a solution to this would be a UN-balanced protector energy restricted diet an help epigenetic marks.Diagrams Sources I think my sources were pretty reliable considerin g they were from research groups or university researchers. I would give them plenty of credit since I had no previous knowledge on this topic but after reading a couple of articles I got the basic idea behind the technology. Other websites got into to much detail or were too complicated to read and didn't really talk about the major points. The websites I was on were written by doctors and medical students that have knowledge on epigenetic and know if its trending in the future or not.

How to Start a Book Report

How to Start a Book Report No matter what youre writing, be it the next great novel, an essay for school, or a book report, you have to capture your audiences attention with a great introduction. Most students will introduce the title of the book and its author, but theres so much more you can do. A strong introduction will help you engage your readers, hold their attention and explain what is coming up in the rest of your report. Giving your audience something to look forward to, and perhaps even creating a little mystery and excitement, can be great ways to make sure your readers stay engaged with your report. How do you do this? Check out these three simple steps: 1. Hook the Audience's Attention Think about what you experience in your daily life that captures your attention. The news and radio shows promo upcoming stories with a little teaser, often called a hook (because it hooks your attention). Corporations use snappy subject lines in emails and enticing headlines in social media to get you to open their messages; these are often called clickbait as they get the reader to click on the content. So how can you grab your readers attention? Start by writing a great  introductory sentence. You may choose to begin by asking your reader a question to hook his or her interest. Or you may opt for a title that hints at the topic of your report with a dash of drama. Regardless of the way you choose to start a book report, the four strategies outlined here can help you write an engaging essay. Starting your book report with a question is a good way to grab your readers interest because youre addressing them directly. Consider the following sentences: Do you believe in happy endings?Have you ever felt like a total outsider?Do you love a good mystery?What would you do if you discovered a secret that changed everything? Most people have a ready answer for questions like these because they speak to common experiences we share. Its a means of creating empathy between the person reading your book report and the book itself. For example, consider this opening to a book report about The Outsiders by S.E. Hinton: Have you ever been judged by your appearance? In The Outsiders, S.E. Hinton gives readers a glimpse inside the tough exterior of a social outcast. Not everyones teenage years are as dramatic as those in Hintons coming-of-age novel. But everyone was once an adolescent, and odds are everyone had moments when they felt misunderstood or alone. Another idea to hook someones attention is, if youre discussing a book by a well-known or popular author, you might start with an interesting fact about the era when the author was alive and how it influenced his or her writing. For example: As a young child, Charles Dickens was forced to work in a shoe polish factory. In his novel, Hard Times, Dickens taps into his childhood experience to explore the evils of social injustice and hypocrisy. Not everyone has read Dickens, but many people have heard his name. By starting your book report with a fact, youre appealing to your readers curiosity. Similarly, you may choose an experience from the author’s life that had an impact on his or her work.   2. Summarize the Content and Provide Details A book report is meant to discuss the contents of the book at hand, and your introductory paragraph should give a little overview. This isnt the place to delve into details, but draw off your hook to share a little more information that is crucial to the storyline.   For example, sometimes, a novels setting is what makes it so powerful. To Kill a Mockingbird, the award-winning book by Harper Lee, takes place in a small town in Alabama during the Great Depression. The author draws on her own experiences in recalling a time when a small Southern towns sleepy exterior hid a vague sense of impending change. In this example, the reviewer might include a reference to the books setting and plot in that first paragraph: Set in the sleepy town of Maycomb, Alabama during the Depression, we learn about Scout Finch and her father, a prominent lawyer, as he desperately works to prove the innocence of a black man wrongly accused of rape. The controversial trial leads to some unexpected interactions and some  terrifying situations for the Finch Family. Authors make a deliberate choice when selecting the setting of a book. After all, the location and setting can set a very distinct mood.   3. Make a Thesis Statement (if applicable) When writing a book report, you might also include your own interpretations of the subject matter. Ask your teacher how much personal interpretation he or she wants first, but assuming that some personal opinion is warranted, your introduction should include a thesis statement. This is where you present the reader with your own argument  about the work. To write a strong thesis statement, which should be about one sentence, you might reflect on what the author was trying to achieve. Consider the theme and see if the book was written in such a way where you were able to determine it easily and if it made sense. As yourself a few questions: Was the book meant to be entertaining or informative? Did it accomplish that goal?Did the moral at the end make sense? Did you learn something?Did the book make you think about the topic at hand and assess your beliefs?   Once youve asked yourself these questions, and any other questions you may think of, see if these responses lead you to a thesis statement in which you assess the success of the novel. Sometimes, a thesis statement is widely shared, while others may be more controversial. In the example below, the thesis statement is one that few would dispute, ​and uses dialogue from the text to help illustrate the point.  Authors choose dialogue carefully, and a single phrase from a character can often represent both a major theme and your thesis. A well-chosen quote included in your book reports introduction can help you create a thesis statement that has a powerful impact on your readers, as in this example: At its heart, the novel To Kill A Mockingbird is a plea for tolerance in an atmosphere of intolerance, and is a statement on social justice. As the  character  Atticus Finch tells his daughter, You never really understand a person until you consider things from his point of view...until you climb into his skin and walk around in it. Quoting Finch is effective because his words sum up the novels theme concisely and also appeal to the readers own sense of tolerance. Conclusion Dont worry if your first attempt at writing an introductory paragraph is less than perfect. Writing is an act of fine-tuning, and you may need several revisions. The idea is to start your book report by identifying your general theme so that you can move on to the body of your essay. After youve written the entire book report, you can (and should) return to the introduction to refine it. Creating an outline can help you best identify what you need in your introduction. Article edited  by  Stacy Jagodowski

Wiesels Perils of Indifference for Holocaust Study

Wiesels Perils of Indifference for Holocaust Study At the end of the 20th-century, author and Holocaust survivor Elie Wiesel delivered a speech titled   The Perils of Indifference  to a joint session of the United States Congress.   Wiesel was the Nobel-Peace Prize-winning author of the haunting memoir ​​Night, a slim memoir that traces his struggle for survival at the  Auschwitz/Buchenwald  work complex when he was a teenager. The book is often assigned to students in grades 7-12, and it is sometimes a cross-over between English and social studies or humanities classes. Secondary school educators who plan units on World War II and who want to include primary source materials on the Holocaust will appreciate the length of his speech. It is 1818 words  long and it can be read at the 8th-grade reading level. A  video  of Wiesel delivering the speechcan be found on the  American Rhetoric website. The video runs 21 minutes. When he delivered this speech, Wiesel had come before the U.S. Congress to thank the American soldiers and the American people for liberating the camps at the end of World War II. Wiesel had spent nine months in the Buchenwald/Aushwitcz complex. In a terrifying retell, he explains how his mother and sisters had been separated from him when they first arrived.   Ã¢â‚¬Å"Eight short, simple words†¦ Men to the left! Women to the right!(27). Shortly after this separation, Wiesel concludes, these family members were killed in the gas chambers at the concentration camp. Yet Wiesel and his father survived starvation, disease, and the deprivation of spirit until shortly before liberation when his father eventually succumbed. At the conclusion of the memoir, Wiesel admits with guilt that at time of his fathers death, he felt relieved. Eventually, Wiesel felt compelled to testify against the Nazi regime, and he wrote the memoir to bear witness against the genocide which killed his family along with six million Jews.   The Perils of Indifference Speech In the speech, Wiesel focuses on one word in order to connect the concentration camp at  Auschwitz  with the  genocides of the late 20th Century. That one word is  indifference.  which is defined at  CollinsDictionary.com  as  a lack of interest or concern.   Wiesel, however, defines indifference in more spiritual terms: Indifference, then, is not only a sin, it is a punishment. And this is one of the most important lessons of this outgoing centurys wide-ranging experiments in good and evil. This speech was delivered 54 years after he had been liberated by American forces. His gratitude to the American forces who liberated him is what opens the speech, but after the opening paragraph, Wiesel seriously admonishes Americans to do more to halt genocides all over the world. By not intervening on behalf of those victims of genocide, he states clearly, we are collectively indifferent to their suffering: Indifference, after all, is more dangerous than anger and hatred. Anger can at times be creative. One writes a great poem, a great symphony, one does something special for the sake of humanity because one is angry at the injustice that one witnesses. But indifference is never creative. In continuing to define his interpretation of indifference, Wiesel asks the audience to think beyond themselves: Indifference is not a beginning, it is an end. And, therefore, indifference is always the friend of the enemy, for it benefits the aggressor never his victim, whose pain is magnified when he or she feels forgotten.   Wiesel then includes those populations of people who are victims, victims of political change, economic hardship, or natural disasters: The political prisoner in his cell, the hungry children, the homeless refugees not to respond to their plight, not to relieve their solitude by offering them a spark of hope is to exile them from human memory. And in denying their humanity we betray our own. Students are often asked what does the author mean, and in this paragraph, Wiesel spells out quite clearly how indifference to the suffering of others causes a betrayal of being human, of having the human qualities of kindness or benevolence.   Indifference means a rejection of an ability to take action and accept responsibility in the light of injustice. To be indifferent is to be inhuman. Literary Qualities Throughout the speech, Wiesel uses a variety of literary elements. There is the personification of indifference as a friend of the enemy or the metaphor about the Muselmanner  who he describes as being those who were ...  dead and did not know it. One of the most common literary devices Wiesel uses is the rhetorical question.  In  The Perils of Indifference, Wiesel asks a total of 26 questions, not to receive an answer form his audience, but to  emphasize a point or focus the audience’s attention on his argument. He asks  the listeners: Does it mean that we have learned from the past? Does it mean that society has changed? Has the human being become less indifferent and more human? Have we really learned from our experiences? Are we less insensitive to the plight of victims of ethnic cleansing and other forms of injustices in places near and far? Speaking at the conclusion of the 20th Century, Wiesel poses these rhetorical questions for students to consider in their century. Meets Academic Standards in English and Social Studies The Common Core State Standards (CCSS) demand that students read informational texts, but the framework does not require specific texts. Wiesel’s The Perils of Indifference contains the information and rhetorical devices that meet the text complexity criteria of the CCSS.   This speech also connects to the C3 Frameworks for Social Studies. While there are many different disciplinary lenses in these frameworks, the historical lens is particularly appropriate: D2.His.6.9-12. Analyze the ways in which the perspectives of those writing history shaped the history that they produced. Wiesels memoir Night centers on his experience in the concentration camp as both a record for history and a reflection on that experience. More specifically, Wiesel’s message is necessary if we want our students to confront the conflicts in this new 21st-century. Our students must be prepared to question as Wiesel does why â€Å"deportation, the terrorization of children and their parents be allowed anywhere in the world?   Conclusion Wiesel has made many literary contributions to helping others all over the world understand the Holocaust. He has written extensively in a wide variety of genres, but it is through his memoir Night and the words of this speech The Perils of Indifference   that students can best understand the critical importance of learning from the past. Wiesel has written about the Holocaust and delivered this speech so that we all, students, teachers, and citizens of the world, may never forget.

Aerodynamic Development Of Land Speed Record Car Engineering Essay

Aerodynamic Development Of Land Speed Record Car Engineering Essay This project is focused on the baseline aerodynamic analyses and optimisation of a Land Speed Record vehicle in terms of performance of drag and aerodynamic stability, and thereby, speed the vehicle can attain. The vehicle `Stay Gold’ shown below belongs to the David Tremayne, a Formula One journalist. It is his plan to break the current British Land Speed Record by achieving a speed of about 350 m/s. A photograph of the vehicle in its current form can be seen below. C:UsersCecilDesktopDSC07489.JPG Figure 1, (20)- Photograph of the Land Speed Record vehicle in its current form. In aerodynamic analyses, the prohibitive costs of conventional wind testing along with the advent of computing power, characterised by its decreasing cost has brought the applications of Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) to the fore front of research and industrial applications, (2). The complications of actual wind tunnel testing ranging from differences in boundary conditions to the scale and mounti ng of the object is covered well in existing literature, (1). CFD is a method for analysing complex fluid flow problems using numerical methods to solve the Navier-Stokes governing equations. This report begins with the study of high speed vehicle aerodynamics to understand the important physical phenomena taking place, i.e. Air flows linked with different parts of the vehicle. CFD has been established as a proven tool used to perform baseline simulations with different turbulence models, boundary conditions and grids. Consequently, the influence of compressibility by running cases with progressively faster operating speeds up to Mach 0.5 and the effects of varying the geometry of nose and body of the vehicle using low-drag fairings are studied. Literature Review: High Speed Vehicle Aerodynamics: Aerodynamics is the study of various forces when a body is in motion. As we know, any vehicle moving through a fluid experiences forces induced by the fluid on it. When a vehicle moves forw ard it displaces the static air in front of it and hence disrupts the air flow around the body. These induced fluid forces can be characterised into three main forces which can be represented on a Cartesian coordinate system as shown in the figure below, (19). Figure 2, (19)- Forces acting on a vehicle represented on Cartesian coordinate system The vertical force along the Z axis is called lift. In this context, the vertical force is usually pushing the car towards the ground. Lift force then would be negative. Instead, the term downforce will be used, which is the positive vertical force towards the ground. The horizontal force moving in the opposite direction as the vehicle along the X axis is called drag force. Drag force is created by the vehicle’s resistance to motion moving through the air. . Drag will always be negative with this axis system, although in the results it will be displayed as positive, (19). The horizontal lateral force along the Y axis is called side for ce which occurs due to strong cross winds or by vehicles being in proximity to each other. The magnitude of these forces depends on various factors like the geometry & speed of the vehicle, mass of the fluid, viscosity & compressibility. These three forces are the basic aerodynamic forces that act on a moving solid body. We concentrate on the reducing the drag force alone to achieve higher speeds.

Management Accounting Master Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3000 words

Management Accounting Master - Research Paper Example The total number of operating hours taken by Operation 2 is 9144 hours. The difference between the total operating hours and the time taken for operation 2 is 3156 hours. If an operation 1 takes 4 hours, then it can be calculated that 789 operation 1 was done during the year. (d) Total variable cost for the year 2005 From the information given, it can be understood that, the total cost were 22,554,525. Out of this amount the fixed costs are 18,000,000. The difference between the two is 4554525 which is the total variable cost. (e) Total variable cost of performing Op1 operations during the year It is also given that; the variable cost per operation for Op1 is 2175. There were 789 operations 1 done during the year. So the total variable cost for operations 1 is 1716075. (f) Total variable cost of performing Op2 operations for the year 2005 Out of the total variable costs, 4554525, the variable costs for operations 1 is 1716075. The difference between the two is 2838450, which is the total variable cost of operations 2 (g) Variable cost of performing a Op 2 operation As mentioned above the total variable cost of operations 2 is 2838450. There were 1905 operations 2 done during the year. Hence, the variable cost per operation 2 is calculated by dividing the total variable cost by the number of operations which is, 1490. (h) Fixed overheads absorbed by a Op1 operation and Op2 operation Currently the fixed overheads are absorbed by operation 1 and 2 on the basis of time taken for an operation. The total time taken for both the operations is 12300 hours and the total fixed costs are 18000000. If it is assigned based on the time taken for Op 1 and Op 2, then the fixed overheads for operation 1 is...In case the extra production is into going to be consumed by Division B, additional marketing efforts should be undertaken to identify new customers. From the calculation above, it can be said that, the total number of operating hours during the year was 12300. The total number of operating hours taken by Operation 2 is 9144 hours. The difference between the total operating hours and the time taken for operation 2 is 3156 hours. If an operation 1 takes 4 hours, then it can be calculated that 789 operation 1 was done during the year. From the information given, it can be understood that, the total cost were 22,554,525. Out of this amount the fixed costs are 18,000,000. The difference between the two is 4554525 which is the total variable cost. As mentioned above the total variable cost of operations 2 is 2838450. There were 1905 operations 2 done during the year. Hence, the variable cost per operation 2 is calculated by dividing the total variable cost by the number of operations which is, 1490. Currently the fixed overheads are absorbed by operation 1 and 2 on the basis of time taken for an operation. The total time taken for both the operations is 12300 hours and the total fixed costs are 18000000. If it is assigned based on the time taken for Op 1 and Op 2, then the fixed overheads for operation 1 is 4618537 and for operation 2 is 13381463.

Disucssion Board 5-1 Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Disucssion Board 5-1 - Assignment Example The leader must ensure getting substantial information about the members during the screening stage before the actual beginning of the group. For instance, a group leader of adolescent school students should identify with the dynamics of the members and demonstrate sufficient knowledge of the psychological issues concerning adolescents. As a leader of an adolescent group, I would consider songs as the opening exercise in the beginning of a group. I would ask the adolescent students to sing their favorite songs in whichever language they like. The reason for avoiding the use of specific language is to remove restrictions in the initial stages of meeting, which might work to derail effective group processes in the future. In addition, opening language for use in singing by individual members is to help everyone express his/her beliefs while demonstrating how they cherish certain cultures. The messages and tone of the songs considered favorite can also help members develop slight understanding of one another alongside appreciating differences as exhibited by different songs. Once members begin to appreciate differences and gain slight understanding of one another, they can start developing friendship and openness, which can help establish and build trust (Lerner, McLeod & Mikami, 2013) Another opening exercise may involve diving members into groups of three people and asking the different group to engage in games of counter pulling of ropes. This game is usually interesting and requires willingness and commitment to emerge winner as contestants need to use a lot of energy. To win, members of a group will require to coordinate and arrange themselves in the manner can ensure productivity. This act of coordinating and then reaching to agreement is an important tool for building trust as they have to talk and exchange ideas on how to win the game. Once members

Cultural Similarities Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Cultural Similarities - Research Paper Example This paper shall assess the similarities between the African Americans and the Asians, what makes me feel at ease whilst interviewing a person of Asian origin, an assessment of the positive traits and attributes that person displays and finally discuss the changes I would have instilled in the Asian if given a chance to be friends. Being an African American, I selected Asians, for the reason that, we have both undergone discrimination from persons of the European culture since time immemorial. As evident in the work of O'Neil, Asians and Europeans have been through racial tensions; thus, the theme has been of interest to both sociologists and psychologists. Of essence, the individual in question struck my attention, as he was concerned with the kind of treatment they received during their stay in the country. I developed a form of attachment to him, as I in numerous instances, identified myself with the kind of treatment and racial discrimination that he was experiencing. According to O'Neil, African Americans and Asians share similarities in terms of assimilation and acceptance in the society. This explains why a majority of them do not intermarry especially with the Americans. With constant rejection by the society, O'Neil explains the reasons behind constant tension between the two races and the Americans. In this case, the ethnic symbols clearly explain the distinctness between Asians, Americans and African Americans. It is these ethnic symbols that create a form of ethnic unity by the other ethnic groups, as they share the same pleas as ‘outsiders’. This grouping creates a form of boundary maintenance between the ethnic groups. The same applies for Hispanics, Pacific Islanders, and European Americans. I was at first not at ease in the course of my meeting with my interviewee, since he looked held back and I could barely make out the reason behind it. Later on, I realized that my interviewee shares the same outlooks as I do. My interviewee was open, and happened to be very saddened with the racism in the country. In fact, what made me more at ease with him is that he was happy to share his sentiments with me, and was more of the main speaker in the conversation. With this frankness, I realize that the Asians are also affected by the discrimination in the society. As the discussion ensued with my interviewee, I realized that he strongly upholds the virtue of close and strong family ties. As Fong (2002) also emphasizes, family ties differ between the Asians and Americans. My client evidently explains to me how wrong it is for him to leave his family and become independent as they believe in close family ties. In relation to my client, this allows the younger generation to learn from their seniors while in the same family unit. Extended families are very vital for the Asians. I admire and support the fact that Asians are social beings as opposed to the Americans who live as individuals. My client was keen to mention how they pay attention to other persons and I realized that Americans are too individualistic. Despite the fact that Asians have been treated with a lot of discrimination, it is evident that my client is comfortable with his personality and compares himself with the whites as an equal. It is his high self esteem that motivated me, as prior to our meeting I always held the perception that the Whites were superior to Asians.

Environmental Politics Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Environmental Politics - Essay Example Environmental politics can also play an important role in global governance by finding new ways to hold individual governments responsible for their polluting activities. Turner explains this phenomenon in his article on measuring the carbon footprint. He argues that recent approaches towards measuring carbon footprints can be a useful means of assessing the responsibility of each state for reducing and controlling carbon emissions within their jurisdiction. Furthermore, the new measures also provide greater opportunity for deeper engagement and collaboration between states to develop strategies for reducing carbon emissions in various countries.Despite the promises of environmental politics bringing about greater cooperation, the reality also presents a picture characterized by disagreement and conflict. These fears are described by Skjaerseth, Bang, and Schreurs. The authors chart the course of environmental protection negotiations between the United States and the European Union a nd highlight the obstacles which have prevented a global consensus on emission reduction and climate change. Their findings show that environmental politics can only be an effective test of global governance to the extent that there is congruity or integration between the legislative organs and environmental bodies of the member states. If there is a contradiction between the ideals of environmental politics and what global environmental organizations are empowered to do, then productive results cannot be achieved.

Strategic Management and Information Systems Coursework

Strategic Management and Information Systems - Coursework Example The strategic position of an organization must be clearly understood to ensure that strategic choices for future and strategy management issues are put into action. As a result, the internal and external environment of the organization are analysed to develop strategies necessary for resource allocation. Successful allocation of resources enables the organization attain a competitive advantage towards goal achievement (Paul, 2006). The Adizes PAEI Model of management is a four faced model with short-term orientation, long-term orientation, internal and external orientation. The key players in this model are; the Producer, Administrator, Entrepreneur, and Integrator (PAEI). Their roles in the four orientations produce results, procedure systems, creativity continuity, and motivation co-operation. The producer is concerned about the external and short-term orientation programs for the organization. The focus is result oriented in relation to the plans and management roles of the organization. The implementation of the strategic plan must comply with the market perspective of the organization. The entrepreneur element integrates external and long-term orientation with a focus on creativity and continuity in the market. Through this element, strategic management enables exploration of new market opportunities to enable the organization attain competitive edge advantages. The roles of strategic manager are not very different from those of other managers but are obliged to operate within the tight confined market. The thinking of strategic managers is abstract, affecting their roles within the organisation confined to three decision levels; strategic, tactical and operational roles. These roles affect and are influenced by external and internal environmental factors. This level offers an organization a competitive riding advantage over others. This could mean that an organization would

Cultural Similarities Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Cultural Similarities - Research Paper Example This paper shall assess the similarities between the African Americans and the Asians, what makes me feel at ease whilst interviewing a person of Asian origin, an assessment of the positive traits and attributes that person displays and finally discuss the changes I would have instilled in the Asian if given a chance to be friends. Being an African American, I selected Asians, for the reason that, we have both undergone discrimination from persons of the European culture since time immemorial. As evident in the work of O'Neil, Asians and Europeans have been through racial tensions; thus, the theme has been of interest to both sociologists and psychologists. Of essence, the individual in question struck my attention, as he was concerned with the kind of treatment they received during their stay in the country. I developed a form of attachment to him, as I in numerous instances, identified myself with the kind of treatment and racial discrimination that he was experiencing. According to O'Neil, African Americans and Asians share similarities in terms of assimilation and acceptance in the society. This explains why a majority of them do not intermarry especially with the Americans. With constant rejection by the society, O'Neil explains the reasons behind constant tension between the two races and the Americans. In this case, the ethnic symbols clearly explain the distinctness between Asians, Americans and African Americans. It is these ethnic symbols that create a form of ethnic unity by the other ethnic groups, as they share the same pleas as ‘outsiders’. This grouping creates a form of boundary maintenance between the ethnic groups. The same applies for Hispanics, Pacific Islanders, and European Americans. I was at first not at ease in the course of my meeting with my interviewee, since he looked held back and I could barely make out the reason behind it. Later on, I realized that my interviewee shares the same outlooks as I do. My interviewee was open, and happened to be very saddened with the racism in the country. In fact, what made me more at ease with him is that he was happy to share his sentiments with me, and was more of the main speaker in the conversation. With this frankness, I realize that the Asians are also affected by the discrimination in the society. As the discussion ensued with my interviewee, I realized that he strongly upholds the virtue of close and strong family ties. As Fong (2002) also emphasizes, family ties differ between the Asians and Americans. My client evidently explains to me how wrong it is for him to leave his family and become independent as they believe in close family ties. In relation to my client, this allows the younger generation to learn from their seniors while in the same family unit. Extended families are very vital for the Asians. I admire and support the fact that Asians are social beings as opposed to the Americans who live as individuals. My client was keen to mention how they pay attention to other persons and I realized that Americans are too individualistic. Despite the fact that Asians have been treated with a lot of discrimination, it is evident that my client is comfortable with his personality and compares himself with the whites as an equal. It is his high self esteem that motivated me, as prior to our meeting I always held the perception that the Whites were superior to Asians.

Strategic Management and Information Systems Coursework

Strategic Management and Information Systems - Coursework Example The strategic position of an organization must be clearly understood to ensure that strategic choices for future and strategy management issues are put into action. As a result, the internal and external environment of the organization are analysed to develop strategies necessary for resource allocation. Successful allocation of resources enables the organization attain a competitive advantage towards goal achievement (Paul, 2006). The Adizes PAEI Model of management is a four faced model with short-term orientation, long-term orientation, internal and external orientation. The key players in this model are; the Producer, Administrator, Entrepreneur, and Integrator (PAEI). Their roles in the four orientations produce results, procedure systems, creativity continuity, and motivation co-operation. The producer is concerned about the external and short-term orientation programs for the organization. The focus is result oriented in relation to the plans and management roles of the organization. The implementation of the strategic plan must comply with the market perspective of the organization. The entrepreneur element integrates external and long-term orientation with a focus on creativity and continuity in the market. Through this element, strategic management enables exploration of new market opportunities to enable the organization attain competitive edge advantages. The roles of strategic manager are not very different from those of other managers but are obliged to operate within the tight confined market. The thinking of strategic managers is abstract, affecting their roles within the organisation confined to three decision levels; strategic, tactical and operational roles. These roles affect and are influenced by external and internal environmental factors. This level offers an organization a competitive riding advantage over others. This could mean that an organization would

Resilient Rowers of the 1936 Olympics Essay Example for Free

Resilient Rowers of the 1936 Olympics Essay â€Å"In an age when Americans enjoy dozens of cable sports channels, when professional athletes often command salaries in the tens of millions of dollarsit’s hard to fully appreciate how important the rising prominence of the University of Washington’s crew was to the people of Seattle in 1935† (Brown 173). As seen by this quote, America is a much different place than what it was in the 1930s. The times have changed significantly. In today’s day and age we have it all too good. The world we live in is one of leisure and not nearly as much hard work as there used to be. Back in the early 20th century the people had it pretty rough and dealt with many frightening problems of their generation such as World Wars and the Great Depression. The non†fiction novel, Boys in the Boat by Daniel Brown, takes place in this turbulent time period of US history that started around the 1930s. The book is the story of how the University of Washington’s crew won the 1935 Berlin Olympics. The main character, Joe Rantz, and his team start off as an inexperienced freshman crew at the university and worked their way to the top amongst many obstacles. The story is one of great heroism and persistence that takes place during the heart of the US’s struggles. The lives of the great Olympic athletes were affected by this time period in several ways. The Great Depression greatly amplified the athlete’s drive to succeed as well as their great sense of patriotism, and the less complicated technology of the time allowed them to invest wholeheartedly in the handcrafted vessel in which they rowed. The book begins in 1933 in Seattle on a gloomy day. It was the fourth year of the Great Depression and at this point it seemed like it would last forever. â€Å"Nobody could say when, or if, the hard times would ever end† (Brown 9). The time period brought on a bleak, depressing, and failing society. Howard Zinn, in his article called Self†Help in Hard Times, provided a great illustration of what the time was like for people of the US through the quote, â€Å"After the crash, the economy was stunned, barely moving. Over five thousand banks closed and huge numbers of businesses, unable to get money, closed too. Those that continued laid off employees and cut the wages of those who remained, again and again. Industrial production fell by 50 percent, and by 1933 perhaps 15 millionwere out of work† (Zinn). This description by Howard Zinn really  paints a picture of the turmoil that was occurring in the US during the depression. The depression caused people to be afraid of the future because of all the uncertainty that came with it. This was especially true for Joe Rantz. Joe came from an extremely poor family and had been hit hard by the depression. He knew that if he wanted to rise above the depression and the sad life he lived, he would have to make the cut for the University of Washington crew team. Joe knew all too well that â€Å"failing at this rowing business would mean, at best, returning to a small, bleak town on the Olympic Peninsula with nothing ahead of him but the prospect of living alone in a cold, empty, half†built house† (Brown 13). It was this that motivated Joe and it was this that pushed him to succeed. The Great Depression sparked the fear of an uncertain future into Joe, which is demonstrated by Brown in the quote,†Whether you were a banker or a baker, a homemaker or homeless, it was with you night and day†Ã¢â‚¬ Ã¢â‚¬ a terrible, unrelenting uncertainty about the future, a feeling that the ground could drop out from under you for good at any moment,† (Brown 9). This fear affected his life tremendously and is ultimately what caused Joe’s drive to win an Olympic gold medal. As well as serving as a motivator for the crew team, the Great Depression also sparked much patriotism into the lives of not only the rowers, but the whole nation. Coming off of WWI the US still had a strong sense of nationalism amongst its people. Once the depression hit and hard times came around, the people of the United States instead of losing their sense of nationalism, held on to it tighter and believed that America would recover back into the prospering nation it once was. For the crew team of the University of Washington, times were challenging however they were proud to be living in America because, as demonstrated by the following quote, they knew that other nations didn’t have the freedoms that they had: â€Å"In a few days, he would be sailing under her on his way to a place where as he understood it, liberty was not a given, where it seemed to be under some kind of assault. The realization that was settling on all the boys settled on Joe† (Brown 289). This place they were about to sail off to was Germany. Germany at the time didn’t have any of the freedoms that America did and was under the control of Hitler. The quote, â€Å"They were now representative of something much larger than themselves—a way of life, a shared set of values. Liberty was perhaps the most fundamental of those values. But the things that held them together—  trust in each other, mutual respect, humility, fair play, watching out for one another—those were also a part of what America meant to all of them†, (Brown 289) reveals the crew team’s feelings about their great American nation. It shows the true level of patriotism that the crew possessed and their deep understanding and respect for the values of America. These true feelings of patriotism were brought forth by the Great Depression and affected the lives of the Olympic athletes by motivating them even more to win the gold for their nation. Another effect that the time period had on the lives of the Olympic Athletes was caused by the lack of advanced technology in the row boat industry. The time period in which the story was based was during a time in which many things were still crafted by hand and not by machine. The handcraftsmanship of the era carried over into the rowing industry. George Pocock, an expert boat builder, designed and built the Husky Clipper, the winning Olympic boat. George Pocock’s expertise is illuminated by the quote, â€Å"A large part of Pocock’s genius as a boatbuilder was that he managed to excel both as a maker of machines and as an artist† (Brown 136). Due to his expertise, the boat became something more important than it seemed. The 9 crew members feel in love with the boat and really became a part of it. Joe began to develop a true connection to the boat when he heard George Pocock describe the wood in the following way: â€Å"The wood taught us about survival, about overcoming difficulty, about prevailing over adversity, but it also taught us something about the underlying reason for surviving in the first place. Something about infinite beauty, about underlying grace, about things larger than ourselves. About the reason we were all here† (Brown 214). The values taught to them through the craftsmanship of the boat aided them in victory and taught them to persevere and push through. Joe Rantz and his eight crew members worked relentlessly to achieve a gold medal at the 1935 Berlin Olympics. By all accounts this was a huge accomplishment because rowing is not only physically demanding but also mentally challenging as seen through the quote from the article entitled Me Time, â€Å"On the one hand they (rowers) must possess enormous self†confidence, strong egos, and titanic willpower. And yet, no other sport demands and rewards complete abandonment of the self† (Crosby). Many factors influenced their success including a strong desire to escape the desolate state of poverty brought on by the Great Depression, a heightened sense of  patriotism, and a great appreciation for their rowing vessel that was meticulously handcrafted. They achieved many successes and experienced failure as well, along the road to Olympic victory. However it was not until the last few hundred meters of the race that Joe felt truly at one with his teammates. Joe finally was able to trust his teammates, which is what he was searching for all along. The true prize of his journey, however, wasn’t really the gold olympic medal. It was the friendships he gained along the way. Works Cited Brown, Daniel. The Boys in the Boat: Nine Americans and Their Epic Quest for Gold at the 1936 Berlin Olympics. New York: Penguin, 2014. Print. Crosby, Josh. â€Å"Me Time.† Rowing Magazine Apr. 2014: 61. Web. Zinn, Howard. â€Å"Self ­Help in Hard Times.† In A People’s History of the United States, 377 ­406. New York : Harper Collins, 2003.

Types Of Peace Support Operations And Characteristics International Law Essay

Types Of Peace Support Operations And Characteristics International Law Essay Introduction The Norwegian Defence doctrine from 2007, Forsvarets Fellesoperative doktrine and the UN Prinsiples and Guidelines from 2008 (Capstone doctrine) devides peace support operations (PSO) into five various types; conflict prevention or preventive diplomacy, peacemaking, peacekeeping, peace-enforcement and peace building. These are the most important tools UN and other international organisations have to reach their coal of international peace and security. Types of peace support operations and characteristics The distinction between these categories is often unclear. Conflict prevention or preventive diplomacy is measures with the aim to avoid intra-state or inter-state disputes and conflicts, prevent tension and conflicts from escalating into violent conflict and to limit the ongoing conflict from spreading. This should be based on an early warning, information gathering and also on analysis of the factors driving the conflict. Conflict prevention ranges from diplomatic initiatives, confidence-building measures to the preventive deployment of troops. Peacemaking includes the range of diplomatic actions aimed at establishing a peaceful settlement once conflict is in progress or has resumed. Good offices may be used to facilitate the resolution of the conflict. Peacemakers may also be envoys, governments, groups of states, regional organizations or the United Nations. Peacemaking efforts may also be under-taken by unofficial and non-governmental groups, or by a prominent personality working independently. Peacekeeping is a technique designed to preserve the peace where fighting has come to an end, and the parties involved have reached an agreement. The UN or other international organisations role will be to assist in implementing agreements achieved by the peacemakers. The primary military model was to observe cease-fires and to separate the forces after inter-state wars. Today peace keeping involves many elements like military, police and civilian organisations working together trying to make the foundations for sustainable peace. Peace building is generally seen as those activities designed to strengthen the durability of a stable peace by identifying and supporting structures that will prevent a peace settlement in to relapsing in to conflict. The peace settlement is agreed by the parties involved. Peacebuilding works by addressing the deep-rooted, structural causes of violent conflict in a comprehensive manner. Peacebuilding measures address core issues that effect the functioning of society and the State, and seek to enhance the capacity of the State to effectively and legitimately carry out its core functions. Peace enforcement is the only category in PSO defined under chapter VII of the UN Charter as using military means to restore peace in an area of conflict. The other categories are under chapter VI in the UN charter. Peace enforcement involves a range of measures, including the use of military force. The aim of these measures is to restore international peace and security in situations where there is a threat to the peace, breach of the peace or act of aggression. These operations may be conducted by regional organizations and agencies under the authorisation of the UN. Factors decisive for the choice of operation It is necessary to look into the peace keeping history to fully understand the factors that are decisive for the choice of operations. The concept of peacekeeping has been an evolving one. Peacekeeping has not been mentioned in the UN Charter. In other words, there is no specific provision for peacekeeping in the United Nations Charter. It is normally described as falling between Chapter VI and VII. Dag Hammarskjà ¶ld referred to peacekeeping operations as Chapter 6 ½ initiatives. Early peacekeeping in the 1950s focused on preventing open violence and monitoring ceasefire and status quo and demilitarization and policing. One of them being United Nations Emergency Force (UNEF 1) deployed to the Suez crisis after the British and French troops invaded Egypt. This was what constituted traditional or classical peacekeeping, and where the three basic principles of peacekeeping where formed, namely, consent, impartiality and self-defence. After the end of the Cold War, new forms of peacekeeping came into operation in response to significant changes and challenges on the ground. The concept of peacekeeping expanded into new terminology in the peace process, and peace support operations were used to describe the new concept. In the 1990`s peacekeeping went beyond traditional peacekeeping and in to what is often called second generation peace keeping. The new conflicts where characterized by the collapse of states, and the conflict became intra-states. The PSO missions in this period where demobilization of troops like armed para-militias and irregulars; promotion of national reconciliation, restoration of effective governments, the organization and monitoring of elections, provisions of a broader support to humanitarian aid missions including protection of safe areas and escort of relief convoys. From the mid 1990`s the peacekeeping missions became multifunctional. These missions where executed after violent intrastate conflicts and consisted of both military and civilian assets in support of implementing the peace agreement. From late 1990 the missions are said to be multi dimensional, which means that they cover tasks and responsibilities beyond those associated with traditional peacekeeping such as protection of civilian. The UN has increasingly focused on the need to involve regional organizations. As stated above, peace keeping operations is not mentioned in the UN charter. This, together with the veracity of missions and mandates from traditional peace keeping in the 1950`s to todays complex multi dimensional operations makes peacekeeping ad-hoc, and it must be seen as a flexible technique where the purpose and mode of operating is depending on the conflict and the nature of the conflict. Today UN missions are in reality a mixture of many of the various types of peace support operations. But some principles distinguish them from each other. First of all, peace enforcement (PE) is the only type of PSO categorized under chapter VII in the UN charter and this give the mandate to using military means to restore peace in an area of conflict. This can be given in a conflict where it is necessary to create peace. An example is Desert Storm where the UN gave the mandate to a US led coalition. Conflict prevention, peacemaking, peacekeeping and peace building is under chapter VI. Conflict prevention is used to prevent conflicts to escalating and factors decisive for this operation is that the parties involved are interesting in trying to archive a peaceful settlement. Peacekeeping is the technique used if there is a peace to preserve and the involving parties give their consent to having a observation force to monitor the cease-fire. Peacemaking can be used where the state has colapsed and there are several fractions trying to achive power. This peace makers tasks would then be to identify the players and try to make a peaceful solution. This could be achived by diplomatic solutions only or togheter with military assets to assist in law and order and to put pressure to the involving parties. If peacemaking has succeeded peace building could be used as a tool to rebuild or build the state. Conclusion This essay had the aim to describe the various types of peace support operations and try to give a brief information of the factors decisive for the choice of mode of operation. The conclusion is that todays UN missions are in reality a mixture of many various types of peace support operations and which tool to use or mode of operation is depending on the nature of the conflict that the international organisations are trying to support.

Edgar Allan Poe Essay -- Edgar Allan Poe Structure Structuralism

Edgar Allan Poe Though an innumerable amount of interpretations of any given text might be drawn from a variety of perspectives, a structuralist analysis of two of Poe’s works help place their symbols within a theme related to myth and heroism. Peter Barry attempts to define structuralism succinctly by narrowing it down as â€Å"the belief that things cannot be understood in isolation—they have to be seen in the context of the larger structures they are part of†; he goes on to add that â€Å"meaning is always an attribute of things, in the literal sense that meanings are ATTRIBUTED to the things by the human mind, not contained within them† (39). One might attempt to further narrow this idea (ironically) by quoting the famous line, â€Å"Everything is relative,† which is to say, all reality is contingent upon the perceiver. The context in which that reality is being perceived becomes the point of interest, so that, in regard to literature, â€Å"there is a constant movement away from the interpretation of the individual literary work and a parallel drive towards understanding the larger, abstract structures which contain them† (Barry, 40). The question becomes not what, but how. It is interesting, then, to further define the crux of this theory in search of what conclusion a modern structuralist reading of a pre-structuralist author, namely Edgar Allan Poe, might yield. Structuralism itself is defined as â€Å"modern† but through its own origins â€Å"following the widely discussed applications of structural analysis to mythology by the anthropologist Claude Là ¨vi-Strauss† can be attributed to relatively recent intellectual movements, which then reflect back on the writings of Poe, perhaps evidencing inspiration for the theory in the firs... ...l and follows its progression panel by panel. Works Cited Baldick, Chris. â€Å"Structuralism.† OXFORD CONCISE DICTIONARY OF LITERARY TERMS. 2nd edition. New York: Oxford University Press, 2001. 245-246. Barry, Peter. â€Å"Structuralism.† BEGINNING THEORY: AN INTRODUCTION TO LITERARY AND CULTURAL THEORY. 2nd edition. Manchester: Manchester University Press, 2002. 39-60. Coogan, Peter M. â€Å"The Secret Origin of the Superhero: The Origin and Evolution of the Superhero Genre in America.† AMERICAN QUARTERLY. Vol 55, Iss. 4. College Park, December 2003. 801 Poe, Edgar Allan. â€Å"The Tell-Tale Heart.† RETELLINGS: A THEMATIC Literature Anthology. New York: McGraw-Hill, 2004. 404-407; â€Å"The Cask of Amontillado.† Classroom handout (SUNY Potsdam, Fall 2005, LITR 300, Dr. McNutt). 463-467.

Essay on Freedom in Color Purple and Their Eyes Were Watching God

The Spirit of Freedom in The Color Purple and Their Eyes Were Watching God Freedom takes many different forms. There is personal freedom, societal freedom, mental freedom, and physical freedom. Freedom is not tangible, but may be achieved through many experiences. Different aspects of freedom are apparent in both The Color Purple and Their Eyes Were Watching God. In The Color Purple, by Alice Walker, the freedom moves from the outside into Celie and then out again. In Their Eyes Were Watching God, by Zora Neale Hurston, the freedom stems from within Janie but is prompted by certain outside forces. Both women experience freedom, and the freedom grows from within and is radiated outward. In The Color Purple Celie evolves from being oppressed by Mr.____ and society to being free in every possible sense. The spark of freedom starts from within her and radiates outward with each new catalyst. Shug is Celie's first source of freedom. She teaches Celie to be free in her thoughts and to respect what she thinks and feels. Shug makes Celie realize that it's okay to think what she thinks and to feel what she feels. "Why Miss Celie, she say, you still a virgin" (Walker p.81). Sofia is Celie's second source of freedom. While Sofia herself does not tell Celie anything, she relates free feelings and ideas to Celie. For a time, Sofia was, in every way, unfree. And Celie knew that Sofia did not want to be that way. Celie learned that she could never give up hope, and that made her actions free. Although Mr._____ oppressed and hindered Celie, he was finally a source of freedom. When he gave Celie the telegram that said Nettie was dead, and all her letters t... ...her life. When he was gone she had nothing else to look after in life except herself. She was like a little seed, able to blow in the wind and go wherever she chose to go. Janie's mind, spirit, and body were free. "She pulled in her horizon like a great fish-net... [and] she called in her soul to come and see" (Hurston p. ?). Freedom is a central theme in these two novels. Freedom is a subjective concept and each person must ultimately find his or her own freedom in order to be truly free. The character's freedom often stems from other characters or events but is always a result of inner strength and will-power. The supporting characters or events act only to bring out the inner freedom and to empower that freedom. As Epictetus once said, "He is free who lives as he chooses." And both these characters were finally able to live as they chose.

Huckelberry Finn – Chapter 1 Commentary

â€Å"There were things he stretched, but mainly he told the truth.† Straight away Twain shows us the irony and hypocrisy of American society through the eyes of the young and innocent Huck. For Twain's story to come out as he has intended the voice of the narrator is a crucial part. Twain has deliberately chosen a 13-year-old boy as the first person narrator to give the reader a greater sense of belief and trust which Huck quickly gains through his innocence. A young boy such as Huck would be less influenced by the world around him and, therefore, he will be telling the story straight from the heart and what he truly believes in. His vision isn't clouded by the ‘sivilised' society, which Twain perhaps purposely uses to symbolise the way in which American society attempts to place people into a certain stereotype. The language Twain has used is very simple which reflects Huck himself. The grammatically incorrect English. This seems to give Huck more appeal as it further demonstrates his innocence and honesty. Further more, Twain provides us with two contrasting characters in the widow Douglas and Miss Watson in both their personalities and language they use. Their main concern is to behave in the manner that is considered by the society to be ‘sivilised'. This gives the reader the impression that they are fake and not true to themselves but rather more worried about what others will think of them. From the beginning it is clear that Huck believes to be trapped by what he believes to be a confined society. When he is away from this Huck feels ‘free and satisfied' but now that the widow and Miss Watson have taken to ‘Civilizing Huck', his new clothes symbolise the way in which he is feeling on the inside. Huck feels ‘all cramped up' and ‘tiresome and lonesome'. He feels so lonesome that he ‘wishes [he] was dead'. All Huck wants is ‘to go somewhere' and he ‘warn't particular'. He is so desperate to get away from the society that is constricting him that Huck wishes he was at the ‘bad place'. Twain perhaps uses Miss Watson's criticism of Tom Sawyer going to the good place ‘not by a considerable light' as a way to emphasize Huck's fear of being lonely. Huck is very glad at this thought because he wants ‘Tom and [him] to be together'. Perhaps one of Twain's greatest concerns about America's society is its evident hypocrisy. This is greatly exemplified by the widow's ban on smoking because it was a ‘mean practice and wasn't clean' while she herself ‘took snuff too'. As she has authority others are willing to ignore her faults and ‘of course that was all right, because she done it herself', whereas Huck is compelled to follow the rules, only because he has not yet been ‘sivilised'. This passage also seems to explore the idea of criticizing others in order raise themselves. By condemning Huck for smoking, the widow is making herself feel better knowing that she has the authority and that it is all right for her to smoke. Twain uses the idea of Miss Watson using the spelling book perhaps to symbolise the way in which Huck sees this ‘sivilised' society- ‘I couldn't stood it much longer'. The society's concern with being respectable is emphasised by the irony that Huck is only allowed to join Tom's ‘band of robbers' if he goes back to the widow and becomes ‘respectable'. A possible implication of this is that no one would suspect a ‘respectable' person. The society would straight away try and accuse the ‘unsivilised' rather then point the blame on someone of a ‘respectable' status. Therefore, in order for Huck to join the ‘band of robbers' he must establish himself as a ‘respectable' member of the society so as the blame won't be pointed at him. Throughout the chapter the tone changes but particularly towards the end there is a darkness which is mainly created by the use of sounds. ‘I heard an owl, away off, who-whooing about somebody that was dead, and a whippowill and a dog crying about somebody that was going to die', all add to the lonely mood that Huck is feeling at the time and his wish that ‘[he] had some company'. Through Huck Twain is also able to express his views of racism in American society at the time. The use of the word ‘nigger' shows the acceptance of the term. Huck's observation that ‘things go better' when ‘mixed up' seems to refer to the racial segregation. Twain is perhaps portraying his view that society would be a better place if we all ‘mix up' and ‘swap around'. As the society in which Huck is being bought up in slowly attempts to ‘sivilise' him, Huck's character and values seem to grow stronger. As he fights against the society that is attempting to take away his individualism, Huck is determined to stay true to himself and tell the truth, with as little ‘stretches' as possible.

Hamas Victory

The international community should continue with its restrictive policies towards Hamas even after it has recorded huge victories in the Palestinian’s election. Hamas has in the past declared its open hostility principle towards Israel its interests especially in the Middle East. Unless it openly denounces such ideas, it should continue to be treated as a terrorist group. Hamas is also referred to as the Islamic Resistance Movement. It practices both party politics and militarism. It is its later mission that has seen its branding as a terrorist organization by nations such as United States, Australia, Canada, United Kingdom and Israel amongst others. The European Union has also blacklisted it for exhibiting terrorist tendencies. It is currently having its moment of glory in Palestine having recorded surprise wins in the parliamentary elections that astounded many especially across the western world (Levitt, Matthew, 2006). The history of Hamas dates back to 1987. Its formation is known to have been inspired the Muslim brotherhood, a group reputed to have committed countless terrorist acts towards the Israelis. Hamas is said to have been formed by Sheikh Ahmed Yassin with a sole objective of annihilating the state of Israel and forcing its total withdrawal from the disputed Palestine territory. This is what its charter stipulates. It is credited for having been the mastermind and perpetrator of violence against the Israelis and their interests all over the world, these acts are meted out with impunity only equaled to that of al Qaeda. Together with Al Qaeda, Hamas leads the list of the worst terrorist organizations in the world (James L. Gelvin, 2005). After winning the elections in 2006 and assuming power, it issued a 10 year truce to Israel and vowing to let go temporarily, its suicide missions if the later withdrew from the disputed territories of Gaza, Jerusalem and West bank. This however was not the first truce as again in 2004, it had offered a truce if Israel could totally withdraw from the territories it captured during the Six Days War. This truce however was not held for long as it attacked Israel later in August 2005. Hamas had opted out of the presidential election in 2005 running for the municipal ones where it took control of some important territories. In the parliamentary elections the following year, it was able to garner over 42 percent securing majority seats. Hamas has been accusing Israel of violating the stipulations on the road map that had posited the formation of a Palestinian state, its feud is not limited to Israel only but also to the United States and is ready to wage terrorist attacks against the U.S in 2006 for example, a statement issued by the Hamas officials but later denied, urged the Muslims to target America and its interests all over the world, accusing it of providing financial and logistic support to the Israelis. Hamas officials though, have never owned up to any attack against the United States or to any other country apart from Israel (Lynfield, Ben, December 27, 2004). Its Democratic election into power has thrown a spanner in the works complicating relations with major powers in the world as well as the neighboring countries in the Middle East. Major countries in the western world have always branded Hamas as a terrorist organization. Japan for instance froze all Hamas properties within its jurisdiction in 2005. Jordan has in turn outlawed it due to its terrorist activities. All this animosity is directed to a political and terrorist organization that according to polls conducted in 2007 enjoys over 65% of popular support of Palestinians. The wide public support it has received stems from how it has initiated reforms in morale dilapidated country. It is rooting out massive corruption entrenched in the bureaucracy and order is being restored in the disputed territories. The bloody counter retaliations between the Hamas and Israel however continue, with both sides maintaining their hard stance. With grim prospects for a peaceful co existence, the issue of Hamas leadership in the Palestine state remains a headache for the western countries. Hamas has initiated a number of attacks this year killing a handful and maiming many in the region. It has perfected the art of guerilla warfare employing it tactfully against Israel. It is also accused of executions within its file and rank and also against its key rival, the Fattah. The United States however has been categorical in its stand even in the face of possible political realignments in the Palestine state. One state department spokesman said that the United States still maintains Hamas in its terrorist organizations’ list. The election has not changed this unless Hamas denounces its atrocious acts (Michael P. Arena, Bruce A. Arrigo, 2006). It is more than apparent that the United States is dismayed by the results but was quick to praise the temporal peaceful coexistence of people in Palestine. It is interesting to note that the Bush administration was non committal of the elections in Palestine as the prospects of Hamas loosing seemed grim. All this however is in the midst of reports in the media that the United States government together with president Mahmoud Abbas had planned to oust the Hamas leadership from the government. This was in an effort to overturn the gains made by Hamas. Hamas has been largely blaming the United States for funding and arming the Fattah combatants in its bid to water down its recent reigns (Tiebel, Amy, 2007). Some nations in Europe are caught between a rock and a hard place. There is a need to legitimize the democratic process that brought Hamas to power but also these countries are wary of an organization that has been labeled a terrorist group. Europe is divided. Berlin and the United Kingdom are adamant that they will have no relations with the Hamas. Russia however on the other hand welcomed Hamas leaders in Moscow, Turkey has also followed suit. Since its formation in 1987, Hamas has grown massively and seems to have stricken a chord with most Palestinians as evidenced in the latest elections. The greatest supporter of Hamas and financial bankroller is Iran. This is its vocal supporter but it has always denied claims of providing finances as alleged by the United States. The coming to power of the Hamas was met with elation from President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad of Iran who vowed to back the country financially. The United States claims that Hamas is funded by some Arab countries as well as private businessmen. Most of these countries maintain anti United States stand and are in support of any group that is likely to maintain hostility against Israel. The elevation of Hamas into power legitimizes the relations that Hamas may have had with those countries (Andersen, Mark, 2004). Iran has vowed to commit funds to help the democratically elected government in Palestine. Most of those countries that support Hamas are doing so on the claims of strengthening democracy and seeing it as a solution to the disputes in Middle East. It is obvious that the coming into power of Hamas has complicated the relations that most nations have had with it. Many are in a dilemma on whether to initiate diplomatic contacts with its members or to deal with the president directly. However putting into consideration what Hamas has always stood for, the stand by America and Germany is the way to go, no negotiations of any sort or diplomatic relations should be instituted until Hamas denounces its acts of terrorism and its stand against Israel. References Levitt, Matthew, 2006. Hamas: Politics, Charity, and Terrorism in the Service of Jihad, Yale University Press. James L. Gelvin, 2005. The Israel-Palestine Conflict: One Hundred Years of War, Cambridge University Press. Lynfield, Ben, December 27, 2004. Hamas gains grassroots edge, Christian Science Monitor. Andersen, Mark, 2004. All the Power: Revolution Without Illusion, Punk Planet Books. Tiebel, Amy, November 27, 2007. â€Å"Analysis: Tough Mideast Bargaining Ahead†, Associated Press. Mark Weitzman, Steven Leonard Jacobs,2003. Dismantling the Big Lie: the Protocols of the Elders of Zion, KTAV Publishing House. . Michael P. Arena, Bruce A. Arrigo,2006. The Terrorist Identity: Explaining the Terrorist Threat, NYU Press.