Major Constitutional Powers of the Presidency and how they changed over the Years

Plate Techtonics essays

Earthquakes/Plate Techtonics essays A Discussion On Earthquakes/Plate Technonics Perhaps Mother Nature offers no greater force than that of the earthquake. Across the span of time, earthquakes have been recorded for their incredible destructive forces, and their abilities to awe mankind with their unparalleled force. Earthquakes can often strike without any notice, leveling large cities and killing scores of innocent people. Not only can earthquakes bring harm to society through these methods of destruction, but they can also cause millions of dollars worth of damage to the areas they destroy, causing economic chaos. An earthquake is a natural phenomenon, occurring throughout the history of the world. Descriptions as old as recorded history show the significant effects earthquakes have had on people's lives. Long before there were scientific theories for the cause of earthquakes, people around the world created folklore to explain them. Until recent times, science has not had a complete understanding of how earthquakes are caused, and what can be done to predict when they will strike. This essay will discuss how earthquakes are formed and occur, how scientists can more accurately predict the arrival of earthquakes. Before contemplating how earthquakes might possibly be prevented, it is essential that the process and formation of and earthquake be understood. Earthquakes are caused when the earth's crustal plates move, rub, or push against each other. The earth's crust (the outer layer of the earth) is made up of seven major plates and approximately thirteen smaller ones. The name plate is used to describe these portions of the earth's crust because they are literally plates or sections, composed of dirt and rock. These plates float on molten lava, called magma. Since the plates are floating on magma, they can slowly move. The place where friction occurs between plates is called a fault. A faul...

Compairing and contrast (using car as a means of transport and using a Essay

Compairing and contrast (using car as a means of transport and using a motorcycle) - Essay Example Even in hot, humid or rainy conditions, car travel ensures a comfortable journey with the help of air-conditioning systems. The closed structure of the car helps the passengers to escape from rains. On the other hand, a passenger on motorcycle needs to face the eventualities with respect to climate changes. On hot seasons, the motorcyclist needs to suffer extreme heat and on rainy seasons, he has to face the problems associated with rains. The safety associated with car travel is more compared to a motorcycle journey. Car runs on four wheels and hence it is more stable than a motorcycle which runs on two wheels. The risk associated with car journey is less than the motorcycle journey. In case of an accident, car passengers have the assistance of different kinds of life saving supports, such as seat belts, airbags whereas a motorcyclist may not have the luxury of such safety measures. The only safety equipment and motorcyclist may have could be a helmet. Car travel cannot provide the thrill and entertainment associated with the motorcycle journey. It is easy for the motorcyclist to move rapidly on traffic filled roads because of the less space needed for it compared to cars. Even on roads where traffic is jammed because of some problems, motorcyclists can easily penetrate trough the jammed traffic because of the less space needed for its travel. Thus motorcycle travel ensures less delay in traveling and it eliminates unexpected road problems up to certain extent. â€Å"Motorcycles tell us a more useful truth: we are small and exposed, and probably moving too fast for our own good, but that’s no reason not to enjoy every minute of the ride† (Sanborn) Motorcycles need less space for parking compared to cars. In other words, a motorcyclist can park his vehicle nearer to his destination whereas a car owner sometimes forced to park their vehicles even hundreds of meters away from his actual destination because of parking problems nearer to

Comparative and interactional Aspect of Hinduism and Buddhism Religion Essay

Comparative and interactional Aspect of Hinduism and Buddhism Religion - Essay Example One thing common about the two, they emanated from India thus sharing common ideologies and roots (Elliot 16). Buddhism, in its origin at least is an offshoot of Hinduism. Though ranked amongst the profound religions in the world, Hinduism comes third and is much more popular than Buddhism. The founder of Buddhism known as Guatam Buddha had in early life brought up in posh life of Hindu society. This gives reference for Hinduism that it interconnects with Buddhism. Hinduism, better known as ‘Sanatan Dharma’, according to the Hindu people, it forms the indigenous life of the society, though its origin is still not certain. Factual studies have concluded that Buddhism grew because of the intricate nature involving Hinduism. Despite these differences, the two share a lot in common. This paper will draw the comparative analysis of the two religions, as well as how they differ from each other. On ritual dimensions, Buddhism and Hinduism belief and in practice of meditation. B uddhism does follow some rituals like meditation, bowing to the ground in worship while offering their prayers in their Buddhist holy places. Buddhist practices and rituals do not require any priest. On the side of Hindus, their rituals are complex as they vary from birth to death of that particular person. Unlike in Buddhism, priest on the part of the Hindus plays a major role in practice of these rituals (Elliot 140). This aspect form part of their ethical teachings. Despite this difference in them, meditation as a ritual has influenced their life. The two religions believe that meditation brings them close to nirvana. In Hinduism, someone has to intone in repetition the words ‘OM’ for focus and extol himself to higher realm. Through meditation, the worshipper drives to deep link to the holy deity. This comes due to the continual practice of this focusing technique; it brings them closer to eventual certainty and close to the proximity of more knowing. Equally, Buddha went through this thorough deep meditation. In their belief, through Buddha’s meditation He realized the power within, the deity of Dharma. This makes the ritual important to the followers of Buddhism. In order to reach nirvana, Buddha learned that inward reflection was the only way thus encouraged others to do so by practicing meditation (Elliot 270). Therefore, the two faiths delve on meditation. s Buddhism and Hinduism have universal understanding on the concepts of soul recreation. They differ on the value of sacred texts. As for the Hindus, Vedas is their pinnacle Smriti writings. It is part of the old age drafts, the times of Aryans. There are four divisions on Vedas . They contain over a thousand hymns, prescriptions on customs and fairy-tale stories on their gods. The writings travel around cyclical ideas as in other religions such as sustaining tranquility and normalcy in the world we live in. On contrary, Buddhism does not believe in such doctrines, or any other Hi ndu scriptures. They have they own scriptures known as the Tripitaka. This highlighted Buddha’s tradition. Rules of basic living and moral modalities as well as Buddha’s teachings and sermons abound there. They teach philosophical collections as well (Elliot 214). These comparisons highlight the nature of these two world religions and their etymological ratings. On the issue of Samsara, Hinduism and Buddhism converge to it. To both, living never ends for there exist circle of birth, death, and re-birth. For the Hindu’s, life is recurring, having neither the beginning nor demise. On point of death, away from the world we are reborn in another life but in very unimaginable form. These forms can vary. This successive rebirth allows one to continue learning, and live in respect of the personal dharma. Hinduists believe living in

Reflective Journal Personal Statement Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3000 words

Reflective Journal - Personal Statement Example This is reflective journal that I maintained throughout the last semester. I am a senior nurse working in a multispecialty hospital, where different aspects of nursing are embodied regularly during practice. I am senior nurse, so my work also included teaching a group in my field work. As is evident, this teaching session involved learning, and my job was also to learn in parallel. The audience was student and registered nurses, and during this semester, I also had to attend teaching sessions taken by other registered nurses. Therefore, it could be a dual process, where the teacher has bilateral opportunity to learn as a faculty as well as a student When I decided to keep this journal as a means for reflective practice, I was not very systematic in keeping regular notes. This perhaps happened due to the fact that I did not take reflective journaling very seriously. Now, while presenting it in the form an organized journal, I see that that would have been better to keep an organized n ote. As I allow the work to guide me, I see that it generates a conscious intention in me, and it becomes a contemplative practice. In this journal I would reflect upon this process of transition in me to examine how well I did my work, and what could have been done better to make my practice more fruitful.When I was intimated that I would be required to take teaching session on contagious diseases and method of prevention through isolation to a group of 20 people comprising of registered nurses and nursing students, I was immediately very nervous. As a registered nurse I am quite confident about the principles of infection prevention in our hospital, but knowing things and teaching things are different. This would be practice of learning, and the first question I asked to myself was, whether I was competent enough (Nursing Council of Hong Kong, 2004). This was an education programme designed to provide the nurses necessary skills, knowledge, and attitudes to practice in future in t heir respective roles. Those who were registered nurses and belonged to the group of students, this session would definitely need to be designed to refine their skills and update their knowledge. Ultimately, these educations would serve to contribute to the maintenance of high standards in practice delivering the best possible care. I questioned myself about whether it was necessary or not. It is true that this teaching would at least promote life-long learning in the constantly changing requirement of standards of service. This topic would definitely relevant to the leaning and practice needs of the group. The students are expected to undertake infectious diseases nursing following the completion of the course. Only thing I could not clearly saw was what would be taught and why that would be taught. It would need a curriculum model, and given the mixed nature of the group, learning would be seen as a change in the observable behaviour of the students in practice, but it should be a process. I understand that this programme would be much more focused on the development of understanding (Paterson, B.L. & Pratt, D.D., 2007). I decided that in my introduction to the training programme, I would highlight these points, so students may participate in a more active manner. Given the fact that I am a first-time teacher, I also made a note that I would familiarize myself with the curriculum design of the course. Week 2 The teaching should occur according to the learning needs of the students. I was not an educationist, but it was immediately very important for me to know and design the content of my course (Beitz, J. M., 1996). To be able to do that, I had to first examine the philosophy on which the curriculum would be based on. Moreover, it should need facilitation in a very careful manner to link with the feelings and thinking of the participant taking care of the practice relevance. The topic that has been assigned to me is relevant to practice, since infectious

Rheumatoid Arthritis Physiology

Rheumatoid Arthritis Physiology Introduction Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is defined as a chronic, autoimmune condition that affects 400,000 people in the UK (Cooney et al. 2010). It is both bilateral and symmetrical in pattern and is typically presented in individuals between 30 to 50 years with females being more afflicted than men (Cooney et al. 2010). Although, RA is of unknown aetiology, causes are said to be both genetic and environmental in nature (Abhishek et al.2010). More specifically, inflammation, inactivity and loss of mechanical stability around joints plays a role in causing pain, stiffness and swelling of multiple joints. Consequently, long-term effects of RA been associated with reduced muscle strength (Ekbolm et al. 1974) and aerobic capacity (Minor et al. 1988). Currently, there is no cure for RA and therefore, management emphasizes on decreasing symptoms and promoting quality of life through either Drug Modifying Anti-Rheumatic drugs (DMARDs) or physiotherapy (Arthritis Research, UK). Indeed, DMARDs are a first line treatment for RA; however, not everyone responds adequately to DMARDs (Smolen and Keystone, 2012) and RA patients usually refrain from using this due to the potential occurrence of life-threatening side-effects (Kinder et al. 2005). Today, physiotherapy for those with RA consist of many passive interventions such as patient education, delivery of heat or cold, massage and electro-magnetic energy (Wasserman,2011). However, despite earlier fear of aggravation of symptoms, increased disease activity and joint damage, there is now scientific evidence showing that exercise is safe and beneficial; making it an imperative part of rehabilitation (Stenstrom and Minor, 2003). Specifically, the most valued by RA patients is Hydrotherapy treatment (Hall et al. 1996) due to its ability to alleviate symptoms suddenly through exercising in water. The use of water properties such as buoyancy and warm temperatures enables patients to move freely through decreased weight bearing on joints, increased range of motion and reduced pain (Campion, 1997). Although, Hydrotherapy is growing significantly in popularity, literature in regards to the effectiveness of Hydrotherapy for RA has not been evaluated adequately. For example, Eversden et al. (2007) concluded that the Hydrotherapy group reported a greater perceived benefit in comparison to the land-based exercise group after six weeks. Importantly, these authors conducted a fairly well-designed study in that they took some precautions to eliminate bias through true randomization and concealment processes. However, these findings were not reflected in the physical functional or pain scores. Alongside this, there was a greater number of participants in the Hydrotherapy group compared to the Land-based group leading to potential biases. Secondly, Hall et al. (1996) found that all groups assessed (Hydrotherapy, Seated Immersion, Land Exercise and Progressive Relaxation) demonstrated joint tenderness and pain relief. However, Hydrotherapy presented the most improvements (26% mean decrease) after 4 weeks treatment. This study demonstrates strengths over Eversden et al. (2007) in that they had assessed disease activity rather than just improvements in functionality. However, it was not clearly stated whether or not improvements in Hydrotherapy group were statistically significant and treatment dosage, if longer (>4 weeks) could have produced a greater therapeutic effect. Thirdly, Bilberg and Mannerkorpi (2005) found significant improvements in muscle function and endurance of upper and lower extremities and grip force. However, this was not supported by an increase in aerobic capacity as indicated by their hypothesis and primary outcome measure (Cycle Ergometer Test; Astrand 2006). Unlike, Eversden et al. (2007) and Hall (1996) this study reported intensity of exercise (70% of HR) and addressed longer term effects (12 weeks). However, sample size was small (46 patients) and temperature of pool was not specified, making it difficult to generalise data. Overall, there was inadequate reporting of depth, temperature of pool, type and intensity of exercises. Although, outcome measures differed between studies, they were appropriate for use (Al-Qubaiessy et al). Therefore, there is some evidence showing that Hydrotherapy plays a role in reducing pain (Hall et al. 1996). Finally, this highlights the importance of using standardised exercise procedures, longer term-interventions especially as RA is a chronic condition. This will help in making specific recommendations. Therefore, in accordance to PICO, my research question is The long term effects of using specific Hydrotherapy exercise protocols: Aqua-Aerobics Programme and The Bad-Ragaz Ring Methods for RA. A randomized Controlled Trial. Research Design From a pragmatic viewpoint, a mixed methods approach will be best-suited for this study as pain is a multi-dimensional phenomenon. However, a positivist would argue that this study should be carried out only objectively as this would allow generalizable conclusions to be drawn (Brooms and Willis, 2007). Alongside this, they would argue that researchers are detached from the investigation, thereby reducing bias (Bryman, 2004). Contrastingly, an interpretivist would support a qualitivate approach which would allow greater and richer insight into patients perceptions of pain (Bryman, 2001). Therefore, yielding both qualitative and quantitative data will help increase findings and reliability of results (Bryman, 2004). For example, this study will be able to assess the subjective nature of pain whilst still observing the relation between pain and disease activity objectively. Thus, taking this stance, will allow to address the biopsychosocial approach rather just a biomedical model of care objectively (Engel, 1977). Finally, an experimental, embedded design will be used in this study. Alternatively, an interpretivist would use a case-study that assesses an individuals experiences; this will have high ecological validity but lacks the ability to produce generalizable conclusions.ÂÂ   By employing a multi-faceted approach, it will strengthen causal inferences by providing the opportunity to observe data convergence or divergence in hypothesis testing (Abowitz and Tool, 2010). Research Method In line with Rogers et al. (2003), the embedded experimental design utilised in this study will involve a two-phase sequential approach (Creswell et al. 2005). This will include qualitative analysis carried out before intervention to inform the development of the treatment and after to help explain treatment outcomes (Figure 1). Figure 1: Experimental Embedded Design. (Creswell 2005). Alongside this, an RCT will be used. In accordance to the hierarchy of evidence an RCT is suggested to be one of the most powerful in research (Akobeng, 2005) due to its ability to reduce risk of bias and systematic error (Bryman, 2004; Suresh, 2011). Contrastingly, a cross-over design would be difficult due potential carry-over effects even with a washout period (Saks and Allsop, 2013). Intervention Details The CONSORT statement will be used in order to enhance completeness and transparency of the study (Schulz et al. 2010). For example, attrition bias will be reduced through reporting drop-outs and reasons for this will also be included (Schulz et al. 2010). Reporting of eligibility criteria is essential to determine whether results can be applied to others in the same condition (Bluml et al. 2011).ÂÂ   In this instance, patients (men and women) aged 18+ (in line with the American College of Rheumatology) with chronic RA who meet Steinbrocker Functional Class I, II, or III (Steinbrocker, 1949) will be recruited from NHS outpatient settings in the West Midlands. Those who sustain a steady drug intake for 30 days in relation to Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) 3 months and DMARDs will be included in the trial. Although injections and corticoid injections in the 4 weeks leading up to the study will not be permitted, drug changes and injections will be during; this reflects the pragmatic nature of this study. Consequently, recruiting in this manner will increase ecological validity as it represents a real-world situation (Broom and Willis, 2007). Those, which have received physiotherapy treatment within 30 days of assessment will be excluded in order to avoid any carry over effects. Also, patients who have had joint-replacement surgery within the last 6 months will be excluded. Likewise, contraindications of exercise and immersion in water needs to be taken into account (e.g. patients with uncontrolled epilepsy or fear of water) will also be excluded. It is true that greater exclusion criteria can reduce generalisability of results. However, such steps have to be taken in order to eliminate occurrence of confounding data which could potentially have a negative impact on the results of the clinical trial (Broom and Willis, 2007) Group Details Patients will be randomized using sealed opaque envelopes with treatment allocation. Random sequence of numbers will be established through flipping a virtual coin (Eversden et al. 1996) to either: Hydrotherapy 1 (Aqua Aerobics Group) (Eccentric, Concentric Exercises). Hydrotherapy 2 (The Bad Ragaz-Ring Group). Home-Exercise group that continue with daily activities. Unlike previous research (e.g. Hall 1996; Eversden et al. 1996), this study will consider intensity at moderate level (70%) as it has been shown to demonstrate physiological improvements (Astrand, 1986); assessed via a heart rate monitor throughout sessions. Additionally, depth of pool will be just under chest height whereby 50%+ of bodyweight is offloaded through buoyancy and hydrostatic pressure has been suggested to reduce swelling at this level (Becker, 2009). Importantly, temperature will range from 33.5-35.5 degrees which is safe and sufficient enough to produce therapeutic benefits (Becker, 2009). Finally, treatment dosage will be twice a week consisting of 30 minute sessions for a 20 week period. This will address longer-term effects. Outcome Measures A research assistant blinded to the treatment allocations will evaluate the outcomes measures in order to reduce detection bias. Bilberg and Mannerkorpi (2005) used a C Reactive Protein (CRP) (i.e. higher levels demonstrates active inflammation) in order to test assess disease activity. However, it is said that more than 40% of RA patients have normal CRP levels (Sokka and Pincus, 2009), thus decreasing validity and clinical applicability. Therefore, this study will use Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) as the primary objective measure due its ability to present visual aspects of inflammation within the synovial membrane; shown to be a superior method and very relevant for RA (e.g. Østergaard, 2009) (Figure 1). This will be taken, baseline and post treatment for all groups. Secondary outcome measures will include Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) (Figure 1) assessed on a 10cm scale, whereby 0cm indicates no pain. This is widely used to assess rheumatic diseases and a number of studies have established data showing that VAS results are very reproducible (e.g. Dixon and Bird, 1981).ÂÂ   Other physical measures will include the Ritchie Articular Index in order to assess joint tenderness; intra-reliability of this test has been shown to be acceptable (Levy and Dick, 1975) and is easy to perform. Finally, aerobic capacity will be analyzed through a submaximal test in accordance to Astrands Principle (Astrand and Rodahl, 1986); shown to have satisfactory reliability in RA populations (e.g. Mannerkorpi and Ekdahl, 1997). Both of which taken pre-post. Statistical Considerations and Analysis Analysis will be completed via the Fishers exact test and continuous variables by Wilcoxon signed rank tests for within group comparisons. Importantly, data analyses will be completed according to the intention to treat principles. Ethical Considerations In line with Beauchamp and Childress (2001) it will be essential to have respect for autonomy. Respecting this value, means to protect participants through data protection/confidentiality and ensuring they are adequately informed about what is proposed. In order to keep data anonymised personal details of quantitative data sets will be replaced with numbers. Most importantly, informed consent will be obtained before commencing the study to ensure participants are not subject to an intervention they do not want. To further fulfil these requirements, an information sheet for participants will be written which will also state risks as well as what data will be used for. Conclusion The main advantage of this study is that is assesses disease activity on a physiological level objectively and also observes the impacts subjectively via VAS scale; an unpopular approach in the Hydrotherapy literature (E.g. Hall, 1996, Bilberg et al. Eversden et al, 2007). Findings from this study, will hopefully assist in creating structured and standardised exercise programmes that could be used throughout healthcare systems. Finally, limitations of this study include the high costs that are associated with MRI scans and Hydrotherapy facilities. Nevertheless, this will address the longer term effects of Hydrotherapy for RA. Referenced Material Abhishek, A., Butt, S., Gadsby, K., Zhamg, W. Deighton, C.M. (2010). Anti-TNF-alpha agents are less effective for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis in current smokers. Journal of Clinical Rheumatology. 16(1): 15-8. Abowitz, D.A. and Toole, T.M. (2010). Mixed Method Research: Fundamental Issue of Design, Validity, and Reliability in Construction Research. Journal of Construction Engineering and Management. 136 (1). Akobeng, A.K. (2005). Understanding Randomised Controlled Trials. Archives of Disease in Childhood. 90. 840-844. Ã…strand, P.O. Rodahl, K. (1986) Textbook of Work Physiology, 4th edition. New York: McGraw- Hill, 1986. Beauchamp T. and ChildressÂÂ   (2001). Principles of medical ethics. Fifth Edition. New York: Oxford University Press Becker, B. (2009). Aquatic Therapy: Scientific Foundations and Clinical Rehabilitation Applications. American Academy of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation. 1. 859-872. Bilberg, A., Ahlmen., M. Mannerkorpi, K. (2005). Moderatley Intensive Execise in a Temperate Pool for Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Randomized Controlled Study. Rheumatology. 44: 502-508. Blumle, A., Meerpohl, J.J., Rucker, G., Antes, G., Schumacher, M. and Elm, E.V. (2011). Reporting of Eligibility Criteria of Randomised Trials: Cohort Study Comparing Trial Protocols with Subsequent Articles. British Medical Journal. 342. 18-28. Broom, A., and Willis, E. (2007). Competing paradigms and health research. In Mike Saks and Judith Allsop (Ed.), Researching health: Qualitative, quantitative and mixed methods (pp. 16-31) London: Sage. Bryman, A. (2001) Social Research Method, 1st Edition. Oxford: Oxford University Press. Bryman, A. (2004) Social Research Methods. 2nd ed. Oxford: Oxford University Press Campion, M.R (1997). Hydrotherapy: Princples and Practice. Oxford: Butterworth-Heinemann. 3-24. Cooney, J.K., Law, R.J., Matschke, V., Lemmey, A.B., Moore, J.P., Ahamd, Y., Jones, J.G., Maddison, P. and Thom, J.M. (2011). Benefits of Exercise in Rheumatoid Arthritis. Journal of Aging Research. 1-14. Creswell, J.W., Clark, V.I., Gutmann, M. and Hanson W. (2003). Advanced Mixed Methods Research Designs. In A. Tashakkori, A. and Teddlie, C. (Eds). Handbook of Mixed Methods in Social and Behavioural Research (pp. 209-240). Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage. Dixon, J.S. and Bird, H.A. (1981). Reproducibility along a 10 cm vertical visual analogue scale. Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases. 40. 87-9. Ekblom, B., Lovgren O., Alderin, M., Fridstrom, M. Satterstrom G. (1974). Physical Performance in Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis. Scandinavian Journal of Rheumatology. 3(3): 121-5. Eversden, L., Maggs, F., Nightingale., P. Jobanputra, P., (2007). A pragmatic randomised controlled trial of hydrotherapy and land exercises on overallÂÂ   well being and quality of life in rheumatoid arthritis. BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders, 8(1), p.1. Hall, J., Skevington, S.M., Maddison, P.J. Chapman, K., 1996. A randomized and controlled trial of hydrotherapy in rheumatoid arthritis. Arthritis Rheumatism, 9(3), pp. 206-215. Kinder, A.J., Hassell, A.B., Brand, J., Brownfield, A., Grove, M. and Shadforth, M.F. (2004). The treatment of inflammatory arthritis with methotrexate in clinical practice: treatment duration and incidence of adverse drug reactions. Rheumatology.44 (1): 61-66. Minor, M.A., Hewett, J.E., Webel, R.R., Dreisginer, T.E. Kay, D.R. (1988). Exercise Tolerance and Disease Related Measures in Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis and Osteoarthritis. The Journal of Rheumatology. 15(6): 905-11. Saks,M. and Allsop,J. (2013) Researching Health: Qualitative, Quantitative and Mixed Methods. 2nd ed. London: Sage Schulz,K., Altman,D. and Moher,D. (2010) CONSORT 2010 Statement: Updated guidelines for reporting parallel group randomised trials. British Medical Journal, 340:698-702 Smolen, J. and Keystone, E.C. (2012). Rheumatoid Arthritis: Where are we now? Pathogenesis, treatment response and tailored therapy. Rheumatology. 51(5). 18-20. Steinbrocker 0, Traeger C.H. and Batterman RC. (1949). Therapeutic criteria in rheumatoid arthritis. Journal of The American Medical Association. 140: 659-662. Stenstrom, C.H. and Minor, M.A. (2003). Evidence for the benefit of aerobic and strengthening exercise in Rheumatoid Arthritis. Arthritis Care Research. 49(3). 428-434. Sokka, T. and Pincus, T. (2009). Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate, C-Reactive Protein, or Rheumatoid Factor Are Not Normal at Presentration in 35%-45% of patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis Seen Between 1980 and 2004: Analyses from Finland and the United States. The Journal of Rheumatology. 36(7). 1387-1390. Suresh,K. (2011) An overview of randomisation techniques: An unbiased assessment of outcome in clinical research. Journal of Human Reproductive Sciences, 4(1):8-11 Ostergaard, M. (2009). Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Rheumatoid Arthritis. Quantitative methods for assessment of the inflammatory process in peripheral joints: Summary of Thesis. Scandinavian Journal of Rheumatology. 28. 265.ÂÂ   Wasserman, A.M. (2011). Diagnosis and Management of Rheumatoid Arthritis. American Family Physician. 84(11). 1245-1252.

Undoing Stereotypes in the Movie, Dances With Wolves Essay examples --

Undoing Stereotypes in the Movie, Dances With Wolves Hollywood has helped create and perpetuate many different stereotypical images of the different races in the world. Those stereotypes still continue to affect the way we think about each other today and many of those stereotypes have been proven to be historically inaccurate. The movie Dances With Wolves, directed by actor Kevin Costner, does an excellent job in attempting to promote a greater acceptance, understanding, and sympathy towards Native American culture, instead of supporting the typical stereotype of Native Americans being nothing but brutal, blood thirsty savages. The film Dances With Wolves focuses mainly on one man named Jon Dunbar and his growing relationship with the Lakota Sioux Indian tribe. The Lakota Sioux Indian tribe migrated in the 1700's to different areas in South Dakota. For over one hundred and sixty years, the Lakota tribe held a massive piece of land in the plains to support their numerous herds of bison, which they also hunted in order to survive. They lived in the typical teepees and were exceptional horsemen, hunters, and warriors. They culture contained no written language and their heritage was trusted upon storytellers and drawings made on the bison hides. One bison hide could represent over fifty years of Lakota history. The film, Dances With Wolves, was very cleverly written in my opinion. For most of the introduction, before John Dunbar begins to get friendly with the Sioux Indians, you are given an emotional expression of hatred and dislike towards the Native American Indians as they are slowly introduced into the script. There were a few scenes of brutality and savagery that triggered these emotions. For example, there was a... ...ed along with many soldiers of the U.S. 7th cavalry at Wounded Knee, South Dakota, on December 29, 1890. As the years went on, many of the Indian tribes began to die away due to the lack of food, and the harsh winter conditions. I believe that Dances With Wolves did an excellent job of undoing the stereotypes that have been given to the Indians. Through this movie we realize that they did what they had to do in order to survive and provide for their family. They did what any other person would have done if they were put into the same situations. This movie did help us to understand, accept, and sympathize with the Indians. I hope that we as a people truly learn to observe a culture or a race before they actually start to criticize or stamp stereotypes on them. Works Cited: www.cabrillo.com.cc.ca.us www.wsws.org/arts/1998/jun1998/afi-j18.shtml      

Ownership and Sense of Self Essay

Ownership can be viewed in many different ways. Some think of ownership as a bad thing, while others think of it as a good thing. Before someone can establish their beliefs on what is good and bad, the true meaning of what they are being ased must be understood. This controversial question of whether ownership is positive or negative brings up a much more important question, â€Å"What does it mean to own something?†. Ownership is defined as to have possession of something. I believe ownership and sense of self are integrated together. I think they go hand in hand with each other merely because one can own more than just a physical object, but as well as ideas, thoughts, skills, and knowledge. Just as the famous twentieth-century philosopher, Jean-Paul Sarte, I too believe that ownership extends much farther than tangible objects, but to intangible things as well. Such intangible things include, thoughts and ideas. Only you can think of an original idea or thought. Nobody can put it into your head. No one can hear your thoughts besides yourself, which make them yours. This sense of ownership extends physical objects, and involves self ownership. One’s self ownership also gives a sense of identity. The thoughts and ideas one â€Å"owns†, defines them and is their sense of self. Not only does the ownership of thoughts and ideas provide one with a sense of their self, but as well as skills or knowledge one may obtain. Sarte believed that when one becomes proficient in a skill or knows something thoroughly, it means that they â€Å"own† that skill or knowledge. An experience I have faced that helps me to support and believe in this idea, is when I joined t he volleyball team at my high school. I spent the entire summer practicing volleyball at open gym, improving my skills and preparing for tryouts that were soon to come. When tryouts finally arrived I was no longer nervous and I trusted myself to do well. This was because I had become much more knowledgeable about the sport and I â€Å"owned† the level of skill I had worked for and needed to make it onto the team. I realized that I was no longer trying to become a volleyball player, but I was one. The skill I have to play volleyball often defines me, whether someone is asking about myself or sees me in uniform. The skills and knowledge you obtain become your identity, and this is another example of how the relationship between  ownership and sense of self are so intertwined. I believe ownership of tangible items also determines one’s sense of self. Some argue that ownership of tangible items are bad, while others believe they are good. Whether someone views it as being good or bad, it is still true. In today’s society, image is everything. Social classes are based on how much you own and identity is based on image. I don’t completely agree with the argument made by Plato, stating that owning objects is detrimental to a person’s character, because at the end of the day objects can be taken away. I think that owning objects can only become detrimental to a person’s character if one becomes more interested in what others think and try to keep up an image more than their own personal character. I think people can get caught up in an image and become materialistic and selfish, this exposes what type of person one is, providing insight to one’s sense of self. On the other hand, owning tangible objects could also help to develop moral character, as Aristotle had said. I immediately supported this idea as I looked down and saw the bracelet I wear on my right wrist everyday. This bracelet is called a kara. I have owned a kara all of my life, and it serves a religious purpose to identify myself as a Sikh. This tangible object has helped me as a constant reminder for my morals, discipline, and religious faith. It is the tangible objects like my kara that help to develop moral character. My kara is an identification piece that shows everyone what religion I follow, which displays how tangible items identify ourselves. The relationship between ownership and sense of self is a very close one. I believe that both the tangible and intangible things in life define ourselves. I feel that people go to things such as tangible objects and intangible things such as thoughts, ideas, skills, and knowledge to not only identify themselves, but â€Å"own† themselves and their identities.

Free Essays on Fay Weldon

Fay Weldon uses the setting of her story to teach a young woman a lesson in morality, and about life and love. This unnamed young woman narrates the story from the first person point of view, giving the reader a private glimpse into her inner struggle. I like how Weldon’s story is filled with irony, as the young woman seeks justification for an affair with a man who was, â€Å"supervising my thesis on varying concepts of morality and duty† (Weldon 147). As a married man, Peter is burdening her with the choice between her own morality and a struggle to be like her sister. The woman’s sister urges her to â€Å"just go for it, sister. If you can unhinge a marriage, it’s ripe for the unhinging, it would happen sooner or later, it might as well be you†. Weldon uses rain to bring Mrs. Piper into the story, though she is not present in Sarajevo. The young woman notes that every sidewalk is sheltered by â€Å"a shield of bobbing umbrellas†¦to keep the rain off the streets. Using the rain pouring down upon the main characters while the townsfolk remain sheltered, Weldon shows how exposed the two lovers are, and how Mrs. Piper, too, is affected by their actions. Peter complains that Princip’s footprints in the sidewalk are obscured by the rain, in much the same way that his lust for the young woman obscures the importance and pain of his wife. The inordinate affection that the young woman feels begins to wear off, starting a downpour, which is unstoppable until its inevitable conclusion. The rain continues to drive the storyline, forcing the woman and her lover to dine in a restaurant, under the scrutiny of the public eye. Under the watchful stare of the waiters, she finally sees herself as others do. â€Å"In a world which for once†¦was finally full of young men, unslaughtered, what was I doing with this man with thinning hair?† (150) Here the pieces fall into place, and the woman realizes that she is selfish in her pursuit of a marrie... Free Essays on Fay Weldon Free Essays on Fay Weldon Fay Weldon uses the setting of her story to teach a young woman a lesson in morality, and about life and love. This unnamed young woman narrates the story from the first person point of view, giving the reader a private glimpse into her inner struggle. I like how Weldon’s story is filled with irony, as the young woman seeks justification for an affair with a man who was, â€Å"supervising my thesis on varying concepts of morality and duty† (Weldon 147). As a married man, Peter is burdening her with the choice between her own morality and a struggle to be like her sister. The woman’s sister urges her to â€Å"just go for it, sister. If you can unhinge a marriage, it’s ripe for the unhinging, it would happen sooner or later, it might as well be you†. Weldon uses rain to bring Mrs. Piper into the story, though she is not present in Sarajevo. The young woman notes that every sidewalk is sheltered by â€Å"a shield of bobbing umbrellas†¦to keep the rain off the streets. Using the rain pouring down upon the main characters while the townsfolk remain sheltered, Weldon shows how exposed the two lovers are, and how Mrs. Piper, too, is affected by their actions. Peter complains that Princip’s footprints in the sidewalk are obscured by the rain, in much the same way that his lust for the young woman obscures the importance and pain of his wife. The inordinate affection that the young woman feels begins to wear off, starting a downpour, which is unstoppable until its inevitable conclusion. The rain continues to drive the storyline, forcing the woman and her lover to dine in a restaurant, under the scrutiny of the public eye. Under the watchful stare of the waiters, she finally sees herself as others do. â€Å"In a world which for once†¦was finally full of young men, unslaughtered, what was I doing with this man with thinning hair?† (150) Here the pieces fall into place, and the woman realizes that she is selfish in her pursuit of a marrie...

Puritans essays

Puritans essays The Puritans developed an ideal that could be attained by working and following what the bible. The modern American Dream is always stereotyped by money, power, and happiness. The goal that the Puritans made for todays societys American Dream might be a huge house with a white picket fence. What the Puritans did not know is that things changed, and the people of today do not care about what people think or say about them. The Puritans had a set way of life for our American Dream by keeping faith, working hard, and having no failures which they tried everyday to achieve. For example, the Puritans would only see things from one point of view, which is the chosen one. In the Puritans day, if someone did not like someone no one else will, unless they were related. The Puritans constantly had to keep up their status in life to be with the chosen, and no failures were accepted. In addition, the Puritans can not fail because they had to follow the rules and regulations that were made for them. The Puritans did what the bible said or they would be accused of being a witch. Also, the Puritans made no mistakes. The Puritans lived their day to day life by the rules and regulations that are set for them so they will not get the assumption that they were going to hell. They followed rules and regulations so theyd not live life with suffering and misery. Furthermore, the Puritans needed their faith, to keep working hard, and to follow the rules and regulations. This was so they might not go to hell, have suffering, or be accused of being a Todays Society is nothing like the American Dream that the Puritans set, for themselves, and todays society to have. For example, people today fight, lose patience, and steal for the American Dream, but if todays society worked hard then theyd have what they want. Some people of todays society,...

Nevada week in Review Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Nevada week in Review - Essay Example There has been a rising concern on the amount of money and contributions that these particular groups are raising towards campaigns. The contribution caps may have to be limited to enable greater influence of various groups in the political arena. The current period is important since majority of the politicians are going to their grass roots to seek for voter support and confidence. The existing campaign finance reforms stipulate that the government provide a specified amount of money to aid in the campaign process. It is always important for the special interest groups to contribute to a certain specified limit to give the relevant reform various grounds for debate (VegasPBS). When the special interest groups through their contributions are able to compensate the money channeled towards campaigns, the topic will always remain pending. It is because the money will be though t to be enough. The United States of America is a country that is marked with diverse races. Majority of the people belonging to a different race are in the United States for various reasons. Some are there because they are seeking permanent citizenship while others are there because of work related activities. It is always a basic fact that the voice of such individuals heard since it creates a diversity and opinion about what the diaspora things about the political leaders in the United St ates. Politics in the United States is governed by various acts and clauses found in the constitution of the United States. The existence of peace in the region promotes the development of a good political environment where performance charts and indexes accessibility and previews are available. These presentations are useful components that the citizens adopt to give them the freedom to choose whom they prefer their leaders should be. In my opinion, the voting and election process should be a free and fair exercise.

Dose family structure affect education more than income Essay

Dose family structure affect education more than income - Essay Example Comparative to income, the structure of the family has more influence on the way an individual performs academically. The structure of the family from which a child comes matters a lot to their performance in school. That is because of the various strains and stress levels present in the different family structures. Some of the family structures that may be under consideration include traditional nuclear families where both parents are present, single mother families, single father families and families headed by grandparents. All these family types impact academic performance differently depending on the issues the children face at home. Research shows that children from traditional nuclear families perform better academically as compared to those from the other family structures. That may be because their parents are more involved in their academic activities and expect more from them (Ginther and Pollak 3). The children from such families experience lower levels of stress, if any and the parents allocate more time and financial support to them (Pong and Thompson 683). They also provide parental guidance and direction thus boosting their academic performance. Single parent families bring about several challenges to children growing up in those families. Some of the problems facing such children include lack of attention, lack of motivation and assurance as well as appreciation, which may cause stress to them. That affects their academic achievements. A comparison to children from stable, traditional nuclear families shows that these children from single parent families tend to have lower educational attainment (Ginther and Pollak 6). The different classifications of single parent families also show different levels of academic achievement among children. Children from female-headed single parent families tend to record better