Wednesday, October 30, 2019
Does the rise in online shopping mean the end for retail high street Essay
Does the rise in online shopping mean the end for retail high street shops - Essay Example The aims of this study were to identify the phenomenon of online shopping and probe the various factors that either promote it or hinder it. The research also addressed the issue if online shopping would effectively replace street shopping. This was sought to be done through the analysis of existing literature in the area and through primary research involving a sample of online shoppers. The literature review also included analysis of secondary data and presenting of major findings and arguments from such secondary data apart from looking for major theoretical and empirical arguments which may supplant the findings of primary research in this study. Primary research design was phenomenological with focus on studying the phenomenon of online shopping. The research method was triangulation wherein two quantitative surveys were administered to a common sample of respondents to probe online shopping behaviour in general and specifically in reference to online purchase of printers' cartr idges. The findings literature review established that online shopping has been growing by leaps and bounds across the globe. US and UK markets, in particular were examined and both exhibited growing volumes of online business and e-commerce.
Monday, October 28, 2019
4 Actual Concepts In American Society Essay Example for Free
4 Actual Concepts In American Society Essay Explain at least 4 actual concepts that you see in our American Society today that were mentioned in 1984.            Orwell’s groundbreaking dystopian novel, Nineteen Eighty-Four, may or may not have been composed as a futuristic novel, portending political and sociological phenomena. Whether or not Orwell intended his novel to predict future trends or simply illuminate existing realities, a number of the political concepts portrayed in the novel have real-life connotations even in a democratic society.            In Nineteen Eighty-Four, telescreens exist in every household and also in public areas. Additionally, hidden microphones and cameras are spread out through the public and private domains to catch any potential enemies of the state. In contemporary America, video cameras have been installed in public areas: notably in inner-cities and also in the suburbs.  An article by Lynn Marotta examines the ver-increasing number of public surveillance and the seemingly public ambivalence about such tactics: What started as a simple way to monitor security around the perimeter of public places has evolved to a point where anyone can install a hidden video camera and monitor that video from anywhere in the world directly over the Internet. In addition, the integration of traffic cameras, and face recognition software give law enforcement the ability to track and identify virtually anyone without us even knowing it. See more: Beowulf essay essay                                                                        (Marotta).            Orwell also posits the concept of â€Å"doublethink†in Nineteen Eighty-Four. â€Å"Doublethink†is the ability to hold contradictory beliefs simultaneously, to forget facts which contradict this ability. â€Å"Doublethink†is one of many examples in Nineteen Eighty-Four which demonstrate the power language has over thought and belief systems. American culture is rife with examples of â€Å"doublethink;†perhaps the most notable contemporary example is the widespread and contradictory beliefs in America’s military power, with the nation’s population able to â€Å"believe†simultaneously that America is the world’s greatest iltarty power, worthy of invading and occupying foreign countries and policing the world, and ye we are told again and again how vulnerable we are and how dangerous are our enemies: North korea, Iran, and radical Islam to name a few.            Another Orwellian concept: â€Å"the Two Minute Hate†showed the enemies of the Party on a huge video screen with all manner of perversion and aggression, set to inspire terror among the population of Oceania. The American counterpart to the â€Å"two Minute Hate†can witnessed on any channel’s nightly news when individuals such as the Iranian President or the â€Å"insurgent leader†Al Sadr are shown as menacing threats to the American way of life and also as the progenitors of the Iraqi war, when it was actually the U.S. who invaded and has brought terror and ruin to the Iraqi state and population. Nineteen Eighty-Four posits language as a key aspect of thought manipulation. Nowhere is this idea more explicit than in Orwell’s concept of â€Å"newspeak.†This is language reduced to remove any sense of liberation or specificity in speech or thought. An example of newspeak at work in contemporary America is the sue of the term â€Å"collateral; damage†to describe the killing of thousands of civilians during the ongoing wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. 2) Oedipus was doomed from birth. Trace backe this fate of Oedipus to the origin of the tragedy and arrive at the ulimate end to the family tragedy in Antigone. The fact the Oedipus was born illegitimately – that he was a bastard – forms the central theme for the ultimate tragedy in Oedipus Rex. When Oedipus begins his quest to the Oracle of English Delphi to confirm his parentage, the Oracle relates a same prophecy: that Oedipus will kill his father and marry his mother. Later, when Oedipus kills an unarmed man who demands that Oedipus give way of the road, this man is in fact King Laius, Oedipus father.            After Oedipus dispatches the Sphinx he is given the throne of Thebes and weds Jocasta, a widow who is in fact his mother. Shortly afterward, Thebes falls into a state of pollution and degeneracy. A soothsayer tells oedipus that he is the cause of the city’s misfortunes. When oedipus finally realizes that origins of his birth: that he is the son of Laius and Jocasta, his world comes tumbling down. Jocasta, his mother and wife hangs herself in the closet, in the chamber where they had been sexually intimate. In response, Oedipus blinds himself by forcing her brooch pins into his eyes. The origin of the tragedy is in Oedipus seeking the truth of his birth; the origin of tragedy is in his illegitimacy. ((3) Macbeth was only as evil as his motivating forces. Explain fully the fate and the two most important motivating forces of Macbeth and his downfall            The most important motivating factors for Macbeth’s downfall emerge from his will to power and his attempt to twist fate into a direction he chooses. Specifically, the will to power is embodied by his wife, lady Macbeth, and fate is embodied by the three witches who prophesied both his rise and fall to and from the throne.            With his wife’s intrigue and cajoling, as well as the prophecy of the three witches, Macbeth believes himself fated to occupy the throne of Scotland. However, in order to embrace what he believes is his good-fate, Macbeth must commit murder.            When Lady Macbeth approaches Macbeth with her intent to kill King Duncan, Macbeth displays some trepidation about doing so; however his wife’s persuasiveness enables him to go through with what he realizes is an immoral act. After the murder, when Macbeth’s conscience plagues him, Lady Macbeth enjoins him to act normally and lay his conscience aside as she has done. Macbeth’s ultimate downfall rises from his own conscience and his ambivalent embracing of his newly stolen powers as King.                        As Macbeth’s sanity splinters, Lady Macbeth also begins to be haunted by her own conscience.. She hallucinates spots of blood on her hands and washes them, saying, out, out damn spot. Macbeth’s downfall is spurred by the deterioration of his wife’s sanity as it was Lady Macbeth’s hitherto resolve which empowered Macbeth to act so rashly in the first place. Macbeth’s fall is due directly to his pursuit of ambition and power, which are given birth by the witches’ prophecy and his wife’s explicit ambitions.            Only at the end does Macbeth realize his true mistake as he struts and frets his hour upon the stage.†Here, he acknowledges that he has been at best an actor of fate’s script, and at worse, a mere puppet to his wife’s ambitions or a kind of â€Å"prop†for fate itself to play out a never-ending lesson of morality.            Macbeth’s true life has bene put aside to enact this ‘role†which occasioned murder and insanity an the downfall of Kings. His ambitions and the commission of murder have caught up with and surpassed his original vision of fate; now, as the play reaches its tragic conclusion, the true purpose of his ambitions and crimes are shown, not as a will to power, but as a will toward learning the lessons of ambition and crime. Rather than a King, his life and ambitions are show to be a mere pawn in fate’s endless drama.  Work Cited Marotta, Lynn Surveillance cameras and privacy concerns is the invasion of public privacy worth it?    Video Surveillance Guide, 2006. http://www.video-surveillance-guide.com/surveillance-cameras-and-privacy.htm
Saturday, October 26, 2019
The Good German :: essays research papers
"The Good German", by Joseph Kanon can be categorized by placement in a variety of genres, Thriller, Mystery, Historical Fiction, Love Story, and more. The work is certainly all of these, however I believe much more important is the study of twelve years of human behavior, presented within the context of events primarily following the close of The European phase of World War Two. I don't know that any other conflict has generated more literature than the one symbolized by the swastika, the word Holocaust, and the unprecedented Crimes Against Humanity Trials at Nuremberg. Superficially, the evil of the war is routinely placed with great ease. Even at this level it is hard to take issue with placing the blame on a man, the party he created, and the nation that joined that party, served in the SS, and made the crimes that took place possible. What happened when the fighting stopped, when the shooting war with The Axis ended, and the Cold War with The Soviet Union began? The latter had really begun prior to the first one ending. The shades of gray that dominated the conduct of The Allies immediately following the end of hostilities, and the repercussions that would follow for decades, is brilliantly set side by side with conduct during the war. Mr. Kanon never minimizes any of the horror that took place; he questions none of the atrocities that were committed. He does bring post-war reality to his tale that cannot be said to match the actions of The Third Reich; he does however absolutely portray conduct on all sides, which traditional history would rather marginalize. Nothing is ever as simple as it seems, and while there were episodes of good versus evil, and events that were black and white, inconvenient shades of gray were everywhere. Without exception all of the players in this book are guilty of some form of aberrant behavior, which outside of the circumstance of war would never be questioned as wrong. However when placed within the context of World War Two, which was unique for the range and intensity of the evil it spread, do the judgments and answers remain so clear? A person is put on trial at war's end for collaborating with The Nazi SS; let us say the person facilitated the capture of Jews for transportation to death camps. The jury would probably not spend a great deal of time deliberating this example. Same example with a bit more detail, the person is a Jew who was given the option of pointing out other Jews in exchange for their life and the lives of their
Thursday, October 24, 2019
The Foils of Hamlet :: Hamlet
The Foils of Hamlet Hamlet is dominated by an emotion which is inexpressible, because it is in excess of the facts as they appear.... We should have to understand things which Shakespeare did not understand himself." T.S. Eliot (Hamlet and His Problems) In the play Hamlet [Titles] by William Shakespeare the cast of main characters use the support given to them by the foils to enhance the play. A foil is a minor character who by simulations [?] and differences reveals character, and who, as an element of plot, is there for the more important character to talk to (vevra [sic] ). Such an example is Laertes is a foil to Hamlet. [SS -1] [Is the last sentence in this paragraph the thesis?] Before the events of the play Ophelia[,] the daughter of Polonius and sister of Laertes, tells us that Hamlet was a model courtier, soldier, and scholar, ["?]The glass of fashion and the mould of form, Th’ observed of all observers."( pg 676) [Citation] With the death of his farther [sic] and the hasty remarriage of his mother to mother [sic & sloppy] to his uncle, throws Hamlet into a frustrated state were [where-H50] he lashes out at evil he sees and then relapse into a suicidal misery. [SS] It is in the [this?] state of mind that he meets the ghosts [more than one?] of his father. When he meets the ghost he isn’t afraid of the ghost but instead wants to confront the ghost face to face. It is at this point in the play were [that] Hamlet finds out that his uncle murdered his father[.] [How does this paragraph relate to foils?] A foil to Hamlet is Laertes. Laertes who likes Hamlet [a sloppy error which sends the reader into wondering about homosexuality in the play] has returned to Elsinor because of King Hamlet’s death. Laertes is a young man whose good instincts have been somewhat unclear by the concern of his superficial [??????], which he has learned from his father, Polonius. Such is the case when Hamlet taunts him for his poor performance, at the fencing match. The taunting hurts Laetes['] pride and this shows how insecure he actually is. Like his father[,] Laertes apparently preaches a morality he does not practice and fully believes in a double standard of behavior for the sexes.
Wednesday, October 23, 2019
Cognitive Behavioural and Psychodynamic Approaches Essay
Coping with the death of a loved one often means that the bereaved must develop a new way of viewing themselves and the world around them without the presence or influence of the deceased. In general, reactions to the loss of a loved one are considered intense in the initial period following the death, but on average, these feelings lessen over time (Parkes, 1975; Rando, 1993; Sanders, 1989, 1993, cited in Malkinson, 2001). Some bereaved individuals can successfully cope with this transitional phase and are capable of returning to â€Å"an adaptive level of functioning†within the time frames expected (Marwit & Matthews, 2004) without experiencing severe impairments. However, some grievers can experience severe affects to their physical and psychological well-being (Gallagher-Thompson et al., 1993; Ott, 2003; Stroebe & Stroebe, 1987, cited in Marwit, et al, 2004); cases in which the bereaved is demonstrating prolonged irrational beliefs and/or behaviours about the loss can be an indication of an emotional disturbance (e.g. complicated grief). Complicated grief (CG) can be defined as â€Å"the intensification of grief that does not lead to assimilation of the loss but instead to repetitive stereotypic behavior as well as impaired functioning†(Malkinson & Witztum, in press, cited in Malkinson, 2001, p. 672). The discourse of this paper will compare and contrast psychodynamic and cognitive-behavioral theories with examples of models used to facilitate grief work in situations of complicated grief as well as a brief explanation of what is considered grief resolution. Let us begin with a brief explanation of the core principles of each approach. Psychodynamic counseling is concerned with the role of the unconscious, childhood experiences and how they can ultimately effect our mental processes which in turn manifest in our actions. According to this approach in order to deal with conflicts certain defensive actions or mechanisms instinctively come to our rescue whenever we feel vulnerable or as if our view of reality is being challenged. For example in bereavement cases, clients will often use denial as a defense mechanism and coping strategy in order to avoid the intense pain that comes with acceptance of loss. However effective this may be for short-term relief, in the long run, the client runs the risk of developing symptoms of complicated grief (Hough, 2010). Contrariwise, cognitive-behavioral approaches place almost no emphasis on the past and childhood events, unless it directly relates to difficulties of the present day, in such cases it acknowledges but does not focus on this factor. Rather it concentrates on present day thinking/behavioral patterns exhibited by the client, ways to recondition the client’s cognitive processes and how to eliminate unwanted or destructive cognitions and behavior. Additionally, (and specific to aspects of behavior) this approach adheres to empirically sound principles and procedures that have been tested for their effectiveness and reliability (Hough, 2010), whereas the psychodynamic approach is theory based. The rationale behind CBT being, since negative patterns of thinking and behaving are learned they can be unlearned. We now examine established beliefs about grief and grief resolution. Grief has traditionally been seen as a healthy process aimed at decathexis, abandoning or letting go of commitment to one’s relationship to the deceased (Freud, 1917/1957, cited in Malkinson, 2001) as well as the ability to form new relationships (Malkinson, 2001). During most of the 20th century, leaders in bereavement research followed Freud’s (1917/1957, cited in Marwit, et al., 2004) theoretical model of decathecating grief in which he believed that the bereaved invested a great deal of mental energy into maintaining the attachment to the deceased and in order to reach a resolution of grief it was vital to release this attachment, i.e. to exhaust the energy. To facilitate the process of grief work, the survivor must confront the feelings of loss and allow himself to express the emotions associated with the loss by revisiting the events leading up to and during the death. However, the notion held by Freud (accepting the loss is a sign of grief resolution) is not supp orted by empirical evidence (Artlet & Thyer, 1998, cited in Malkinson, 2001). Cognitive-behavioral models have expanded to include treatment of loss and grief, specifically complicated grief (Fleming & Robinson, 1991, 2001; Florsheim & Gallagher-Thompson, 1990; Malkinson & Ellis, 2000; Neimeyer, Prigerson, & Davies, 2002; Reynolds,1996,1999; Stubenbort, Donnelly, & Cohen, 2001, cited in Marwit & Marwit, 2004). Researchers maintain that more consideration must be given to other processes of grieving which allows for a continued connection between the survivor and the deceased as opposed to decathecting. Additionally, modern day research criticizes the need for finality and closure as a sign of resolution, and instead views the bereavement process as an on going modification of preexisting cognitions and emotional reactions to the â€Å"new reality†(Malkinson, 2001). As opposed to severing ties to the deceased, the maintenance of bonds is now being proposed (Malkinson & Bar-Tur, 1999; Rubin & Malkinson, 2001; Silverman, Klass, & Nickman, 1996, cited in Malkinson, 2001). Klass (1999, cited in Marwit, et al., 2004) reasoned that resolution is achieved â€Å"by integration of the deceased into the ongoing life of the griever†(p.852). Research involving grieving parents reveals a common element of prolonged association and connection with the deceased. As a result of this theory Stroebe and Schut (1999, cited in Marwit, et al., 2004) put forward the Dual-Process Model (DPM), which allows the bereaved to confront painful feelings and cognitions involved in mourning, but to avoid them as well. They maintain that clinicians and researchers must understand the cognitive processes experienced by the griever, and also, the regulation of these cognitions during the bereavement process (ibid.). According to this model, there are two types of stressors: loss-orientation and restoration-orientation. Loss-oriented coping focuses on dealing with the actual loss itself and cognitions such as â€Å"He was too young to die†. Also, addressing the aching desire for the person, for example allowing the emotional expressions to flow, i.e. crying over pictures of the deceased as well as recalling happy moments shared. Alternatively, restoration-oriented coping deals with the task of successfully continuing life and developing a new identity without the deceased and at times, even having to take on those duties and responsibilities, which were previously held by the deceased. Some examples of these potential challenges may include, identity shifts such as â€Å"homemaker†to â€Å"employee†or â€Å"daughter†to â€Å"orphan†and new responsibilities such as entering into the work force for the first time and learning to manage finances. In this way the bereaved goes through a process of learning and coping with new cognitions and realities, such as â€Å"I am the breadwinner now.†(Marwit, et al., 2004). The bereaved must learn to process such new cognitions as a part of moving forward. The DPM is concerned with the interaction of a myriad of cognitive process. According to Bower, et al (1998, cited in Marwit, et al, 2004) in this instance cognitive refers to â€Å"the process of actively thinking about a stressor, the thoughts and feeling it evokes, and its implications for one’s life and future†. Cognitive processes taking place among the bereaved can therefore be described as split between implicit and explicit processes (Marwit, et al, 2004). There is evidence to suggest that exposure therapy can do more harm than good, also that complete avoidance is not always successful in grief resolution, Stroebe & Schut (2001, cited in Marwit, et al, 2004) use an approach referred to as oscillation which allows the griever the balance of both confrontation and avoidance in both loss- and reorientation-coping. This is similar to psychodynamic approaches in which the client has control in directing the course of the therapy (we shall see below). Oscillation gives the client a break from dealing with intense painful emotions for a long period of time. To begin the process of grief work in a psychodynamic setting involves establishing an explicit therapeutic agreement between the therapist and the client whereby the client makes the decision to focus on the loss when he is ready (Lamb, 1988). Once the agreement is made, the therapist explains what the client can expect during future sessions and continues to reassure the client that the pace of the therapy, area of exploration and subject matter discussed will be entirely at his discretion (Lamb, 1988). This gives the client a sense of control during a crisis where he may feel helpless. The therapist can now guide the bereaved through the process of actually acknowledging the loss, reawakening reminiscences, adjusting to their existence in the world without the lost one and to experience all of the pain and emotions associated with this actuality (Worden, 1982, cited in Lamb, 1988). This is achieved through interventions such as, instructing the client to bring memorabilia to sessions like pictures, belongings of the deceased and other â€Å"linking objects†(Volkan, 1972, cited in Lamb, 1988); also the application of such techniques as role-reversal, â€Å"the empty chair†and keeping a dream diary (Lamb, 1988). Another way to elicit emotional response is by encouraging the survivor to talk about positive as well as negative features of the relationship with the deceased (Lamb, 1988). It is also important to allow the client the opportunity to tell their story as often as they wish as this not only assists the griever to confront painful feelings associated with the loss, but it also affords the therapist the opportunity to point out underlying issues which may be the source of the pain. Hough (2010) describes a case study in which a young woman, Linda, sought grief therapy after suffering with depression stemming from the death of her grandmother two years prior. During one session Linda mentioned having to move in with her grandparents after her parents divorced and showed avoidance and discomfort at the mention of this point (i.e. left that particular session early, arrived late for next session). Through â€Å"listening, observing, interpreting, linking, giving reflective response and looking at defences and resistance†(Hough, 2010) the therapist was able to address and draw attention to an underlying issue, which was the actual source of the depression; one that Linda had never been able to identify on her own. Wogrin (2008) explains her approach to this process as listening for what she calls the client’s quieter voice, the one that even the client himself is unaware of. Another form of psychodynamic intervention is group therapy, during which grievers are encouraged to try and understand how unresolved conflicts beneath the surface may be hindering their abilities to cope with loss (Kipnes, et al, 2002; MacNair-Semands, 2004; Piper et al, 2001, cited in Para, 2009). Let us consider two operational forms of group therapies: interpretive and supportive groups. Interpretive group therapy provides a forum for individuals suffering from complicated grief, to gain insight into trauma and recurring internal struggles that impede the griever’s ability to mourn in a normal way (Piper, et al, 2001, cited in Para, 2009). This form of therapy also aims to assist the client’s understanding and acceptance feelings of ambivalence toward loved ones lost (Para, 2009). The counsellor refrains from praise with the purpose of promoting tolerance of stress and uneasiness (Para, 2009). The most important objective of supportive group therapy, however, is to enhance acclimatization of the bereaved to their current situation of loss and grief (Piper, et al, 2001, cited in Para, 2009). The counsellor promotes a pleasurable environment for grievers to express shared experiences and emotions common among the bereaved (Para, 2009). During supportive group therapy the counsellor is non-interpretive and less probing as opposed to interpretive therapy(ibid). So far, we have discussed the two approaches separately, but there are occasions where integration of the two may be necessary and beneficial to the client. For instance, in situations where the survivor suffers from nightmares relating to the death, it may be practical in integrate behavioural exposure techniques as well as symbolism and imagery. Reynolds (1996) asserts â€Å"Drawing as well as verbal representation could also be regarded as an effective form of exposure therapy, helping the client to stay with the anxiety-provoking death-related images†(p.1) To conclude According to the cognitive perspective, suffering a loss through death is a very difficult external occurrence that completely changes one’s belief system and consequently all related sentiments and actions. Internal feelings and beliefs are challenged in CBT as the therapist attempts to show the client other ways of thinking about and adjusting to their loss, this is not unlike the psychodynamic approach. However, in psychodynamic models, internal belief systems are challenged with regards to unconscious conflict resolutions. CBT seeks to inform the client of what can happen as a result of grief due to a loss, to identify different reactions which may be normal responses to loss and to reveal new or better coping skills. Again, this is similar to psychodynamic therapies in as much as the therapist explains emotions which may arise during therapy sessions. Additionally, exposure techniques are used by both theories as a way to encourage the client to face the death head-on. This can be achieved by using emotional cues of the loss i.e. sorting through the personal belongings, talking to them in an empty chair this allows the client to experience a sense of connection to the deceased. The aims of psychodynamic and cognitive behavioural approaches to grief are similar and may at times be integrated in order to provide the best possible intervention for the bereaved. (2242 Words) References: Para, E. A. (2009) Group Counselling for Complicated Grief: A Literature Review. Graduate Journal of Counseling Psychology, 1(2). Article 10100-112. Malkinson, R. (2001) Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy of Grief: A Review and Application. Research on Social Work Practice, 11, 671-698. Lamb, D. H. (1988) Loss and Grief: Psychotherapy Strategies and Interventions. Psychotherapy, 25(4), 561-569. Marwit, L. T. & Marwit, S. J. (2004) Complicated Grief and the Trend Toward Cognitive-Behavioural Therapy. Death Studies, 28, 849-863 Neimeyer, R. A. & Wogrin, C. (2008) Psychotherapy for Complicated Bereavement: A Meaning-Oriented Approach. Illness, Crisis & Loss, 16(1) 1-20. Reynolds, F. (1996) Laying Mother to Rest: Working with Grief-Related Nightmares Through Exposure Therapy and Imagery. Counselling Psychology Quarterly, 9(3) 1-7 Hough, M. (2010) Counselling Skills and Theory 3rd Ed, UK: Hodder Education
Tuesday, October 22, 2019
7 ways to get out of a rut when you hate your job
7 ways to get out of a rut when you hate your job Hate your job? Or just feel stuck? Maybe the problem is you and maybe the problem is the job, but sometimes moving on right away is not an option. If this is your situation, there are ways to make walking through the door of the job you despise more bearable. So even if you’re just sticking around and biding time until you find something more bearable, here are some strategies to find inspiration in the unlikeliest of places.1. Fix what is in your control.What’s the root of your actual problem/malaise? It is possible to find the root of your work blahs and correct it, thus making your job everything it ought to be? Ask yourself which tasks you like vs. hate, what things challenge you, and what things make you unbelievably bored. You can always try and find a way to shift the balance to the good stuff by taking a little initiative and making a good case to the powers that be.2. Examine yourself to see if the problem lies within.Just for a second, forget all the reason s your job is the problem and ask yourself what’s going on with you. Is this job/company/industry right for you? If not, can you move? How long would the process take? If the problem turns out to be your attitude and not your work life, then you can fix that with a lot less logistical mess.3. Think about the big picture.Zoom out and start thinking about your future. Ask yourself what you really want- a sort of mission statement for your career. Make yourself a declaration of purpose, along with rough sketch of where you want to be in 5 years. Then ask yourself how you can get there. Suck whatever marrow you can from the bone you have in front of you while planning how to get the next one. Find your breakthrough moment- when you realize what you want and how you are going to go about getting it.4. Look at the other grass.Think that career across the lawn looks greener and easier? Take some time to watch someone else work and see a) whether their life is actually much different , and (more importantly) b) whether you can infuse something you learn from watching them work into how your approach your own professional journey. You never know what sort of revolutionary methods you can come up with to jazz up your career.5. Surround yourself with positive people.Bond with colleagues who radiate positivity. When you’re stuck in a rut and hate your job, it can be really easy (and sometimes utterly necessary) to fall into the habit of spending all your time with other complaining coworkers. But if you try to spend some time with the people who aren’t quite so jaded, you might just find your own attitude improves by osmosis.6. Do better.Just because your job isn’t all it’s cracked up to be doesn’t mean that you can phone it in or casually fail at it. Keep improving and see if you can get that extra award or certification, or reach that higher bar in order to make a transition out of there much easier. Take online courses. Take you r company up on professional development programming. Start trying super-hard and see what happens.7. Practice self-care.On bad days when you just can’t stand it anymore, don’t despair. Instead, take a quick walk outside to shake off your bad mood. Go take a coffee- or an ice cream- break somewhere in nature. Whatever you do, don’t let your whole mood and demeanor go sour because of small things. Shake it off and get back to the task at hand- improving your situation or finding a path out.
Monday, October 21, 2019
Free Essays on Machiavelli’s Advice For Today’s Businessman
Niccolo Machiavelli’s Advice for Today’s Businessman Niccolo Machiavelli was essentially the first political philosopher of the Renaissance, developing a system of business tactics to gain and retain power over any body in which a leader reigns. His tactics are ruthless, merciless and savage, though undoubtedly productive. Machiavelli’s advice for business people is a valid source for anyone looking to rise in status even today as his principles have withstood the test of time. With superb admonition for both workers on top or on bottom of the totem-pole, ‘The Prince’ is a must-read for an individual before looking into a corporate profession. Machiavelli was a realist, understanding quite well how humans think and act. By this, he constructed his own system for attaining power. He first thinks that once a ruler is overthrown, the new ruler, or ‘The Prince’, should be the sole authority. Next, all the existing members of the former administration must be marked for death so that there is no chance of them regaining power. Next, concerning the citizens, he believes that it is not wise to trust the citizens because in dismal times they will quickly turn against him, however on the contrary, ‘The Prince’ should not abuse them because in uplifting times they will remain loyal. Machiavelli believes that a separation from the church is a must, as the church’s intervening with his monarchy distills an altruism that ‘The Prince’ can not have. Concerning the law enforcement, Machiavelli feels that the ‘The Prince’ should make capital punishment the solitary means of discipline, because eventually a free criminal’s exposure amongst the rest of the population will just increase the crime. Finally, Machiavelli feels that being selfish is better than being generous because the generous people of this world are usually the first to be ta... Free Essays on Machiavelli’s Advice For Today’s Businessman Free Essays on Machiavelli’s Advice For Today’s Businessman Niccolo Machiavelli’s Advice for Today’s Businessman Niccolo Machiavelli was essentially the first political philosopher of the Renaissance, developing a system of business tactics to gain and retain power over any body in which a leader reigns. His tactics are ruthless, merciless and savage, though undoubtedly productive. Machiavelli’s advice for business people is a valid source for anyone looking to rise in status even today as his principles have withstood the test of time. With superb admonition for both workers on top or on bottom of the totem-pole, ‘The Prince’ is a must-read for an individual before looking into a corporate profession. Machiavelli was a realist, understanding quite well how humans think and act. By this, he constructed his own system for attaining power. He first thinks that once a ruler is overthrown, the new ruler, or ‘The Prince’, should be the sole authority. Next, all the existing members of the former administration must be marked for death so that there is no chance of them regaining power. Next, concerning the citizens, he believes that it is not wise to trust the citizens because in dismal times they will quickly turn against him, however on the contrary, ‘The Prince’ should not abuse them because in uplifting times they will remain loyal. Machiavelli believes that a separation from the church is a must, as the church’s intervening with his monarchy distills an altruism that ‘The Prince’ can not have. Concerning the law enforcement, Machiavelli feels that the ‘The Prince’ should make capital punishment the solitary means of discipline, because eventually a free criminal’s exposure amongst the rest of the population will just increase the crime. Finally, Machiavelli feels that being selfish is better than being generous because the generous people of this world are usually the first to be ta...
Sunday, October 20, 2019
Health And Social Care Personal Statement Essays
Health And Social Care Personal Statement Essays Health And Social Care Personal Statement Essay Health And Social Care Personal Statement Essay Due to old experiences of working with a scope of people in the attention sector I believe that throughout my clip on assorted work arrangements with people who have disablements and troubles in communication, along with the experiences gained throughout my surveies, my wish to prosecute a calling in the attention profession has grown. To foster my involvement in working with and around people I completed a class in child care. Throughout this class I was able to derive valuable experience of working with particular demands kids. While this was really ambitious I besides found it an highly rewarding and gratifying experience. To farther my cognition and passion for working with people I took a wellness and societal attention advanced class and took a hebdomad s experience in a twenty-four hours centre that involves working with people who suffer from troubles in communication and holding disablements. This once more helped to broaden my apprehension of working with people and besides how to cover with kids and grownups with disablements. Within my trim clip I have researched the occupation function and demands for wellness publicity to happen out what is involved. To construct upon these involvements farther, I am taking up a one hebdomad work experience within the wellness field. I will be passing the first hebdomad in a attention place concentrating on assisting aged people that suffer from dementedness and my 2nd hebdomad helping a wellness booster to see a more professional occupation function in wellness attention. I am looking frontward to this valuable experience as it will further consolidate my desire to analyze wellness and societal attention. I presently work as a gross revenues helper which has given me a valuable experience of working with people and how to help their demands in any manner possible. During this clip I am developing effectual communicating accomplishments and good working relationships. In add-on to this it is besides assisting me to demo how committed I am to my duties every bit good as showing good administration accomplishments. Having to beguile work and school every bit good as societal activities this besides shows that I am developing my clip maintaining accomplishments to do myself more committed and more punctual. During my first twelvemonth of 6th signifier I helped to raise money for the McMillan Cancer trust charity. I besides found this really rewarding as I was assisting others that were in demand, merely like during my work arrangements. I frequently play athleticss after 6th signifier with my friends ; this has helped me to develop excess accomplishments in working good in a squad. In add-on I have completed voluntary work with a twelvemonth six category to increase my cognition of working with immature people, another activity that I really much enjoyed and found highly honoring. To farther my involvement in working with people I have late volunteered to make a degree 3 v-volunteering in my trim clip, the certification itself is an accreditation signifier Newcastle University. During my trim clip I chiefly like to dance and sing. I find this is a good manner to show myself in add-on to assist me maintain tantrum. I besides attend the gym frequently to besides assist maintain me fit. I besides like to go to assorted different events and take advantage of any activities that I am offered whether it is through school or exterior of school. This helps to increase my assurance and besides helps me to run into new people. I feel that university is decidedly the right way for me. I am ever working highly difficult to accomplish the best I can, a effort which I intend to transport on throughout my university old ages. I feel I have the necessary accomplishments needed to bask university to the full and besides be successful in future old ages. In add-on I would besides wish to travel to university to assist develop my accomplishments even further so I can derive a good occupation in the wellness and societal attention sector which is ever my chief involvement. Social Work Personal Statement I have decided to take up the class in societal work because foremost the topics which I am making sociology looks at people and society s jobs, I have in this topic done work on household and at the minute making faith, this has fascinated me to assist people who are confronting jobs such as maltreatment in households. Second I have done personal survey on this topic which I have enjoyed reading around in periodicals and diaries which had fuelled my involvement in deriving a more depth cognition of working with different type of people and their jobs. Third I would wish to take up a class which fascinates me and in which I will find me excessively win and the challenge of working to deadlines Whilst in the 6th signifier I have been involved in a strategy which aimed to supply kids come ining school with a low reading age, with the aid their required to better their reading degrees. I besides at in my private clip be given to travel to old people house who are disabled because one of my close comparative is at that place besides this house is opposite my house so I go in and speak to different people and talk or drama games with them. This is another ground why I want to make this class because I have some experience of what I will be confronting in this class, it wo nt be shock to me at first clip unit of ammunition because I know in societal work you get people who are difficult to manage particularly childs My portion clip occupation which is store helper helped develop my apprehension of duty and has given me increased assurance besides enabled me to move initiatively with covering with unexpected jobs and has helped to develop my communicating accomplishments. Working with the kids in school has improved my interpersonal accomplishments so that I can now work with kids who can be awkward sometimes without any jobs As an single I like maintaining tantrum which I have a gym in my house, I besides like listening to music and traveling out with couples which provides me a different environment from college and work, this gives me an chance to do new friend and run into new people. I besides in my portion clip assist my younger brother and sister with their prep or I sometimes learn from my silent how to run up apparels As an applier, I will convey with me an enthusiasm and motive for this topic. My moralss background and cultural consciousness should let me to go and incorporate yet single of a university member in an progressively widely distributed society. Personal Statements: the Good, the Bad and the Ugly Personal statements with positive impact After I was made redundant, I decided to go a support worker. This was because I had been volunteering for several old ages in the Youth Service, working with immature people at hazard of piquing. I got a occupation in a particular needs school where I supported students on an single footing. I needed to develop a good relationship with each student and to accommodate my communicating to their particular demands. An illustration is how I worked with a male child who was afraid of the physician ( describes her intercession and result ) . Working in this field for three old ages has encouraged me to undertake an Access class ; I have learnt the theory of communicating and can see why I was successful in my work with school pupils. I would wish to develop my accomplishments and knowledge farther by analyzing for a societal work grade. Skills I had gained as a support worker were needed when my male parent was diagnosed with dementedness. I had ever relied on his support and found that I had to be dependable and utile for him without allowing my emotions overwhelm me. I am presently working as a support worker in a multi-disciplinary community mental wellness squad. Although I work largely with the OTs I have a good chance to acquire an overview of the other professions including societal work. I have worked together with societal workers in the squad to back up vulnerable people in the community and peculiarly like the wider position they bring to their work such as affecting carers. I have worked in the substance abuse field for 5 old ages and have undertaken NVQ3.I have been offered the station of director in the service I work in but believing about my ain development demands, I now want to develop as a societal worker to derive a wider experience of working with vulnerable grownups and kids. I am a babys room nurse and wanted to take my involvement in kid protection farther by analyzing OU classs on wellness and societal attention. Statements with Limited Impact I have ever been passionate about attention, going a societal worker would let me to carry through my aspirations I have been employed as a carer for 6 old ages. I enjoy my occupation and the experience. This has been first-class for my personal accomplishments as I have to speak to people like the aged. I believe my personal thrust is a cardinal factor in my success as director in a attention place and I would be an plus to your grade . Working as a support worker means that I have learnt accomplishments in communicating and squad work. ( No farther treatment of these points ) Drawn-out expounding of old employment in assorted retail and selling companies, paragraph stoping with The work experience linked to societal work was a six hebdomad arrangement in twenty-four hours Centre where I helped escort the old people place. No farther treatment of what individual learnt from this, what impact it had on determination to use to develop as a societal worker. Having gained an NVQ 3 in wellness and societal attention and with huge experience in paid and voluntary work, I want to foster my calling by analyzing for a professional societal work making †¦.. ( so follows list of all the service user groups applier has worked with ) †¦ in all these my accomplishments in prioritizing my work load, meeting deadlines, clip direction and squad working has improved tremendously. No grounds given to show this statement. Other statements contain really general remarks on societal work – such as A societal worker s career is really complex and more than construing the job and helping people find a solution. It involves methods, theories and moralss. There is a danger that these types of generalized remark are either from web sites or books and articles which are non referenced – plagiarism can rise up its caput even before some appliers have started their academic calling!
Saturday, October 19, 2019
Strategic Managemnt Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words
Strategic Managemnt - Essay Example b. Economic factor The effect of the recent financial crisis made consumers skimp on cost particularly on their fashion wear. They are now becoming more sensitive to price and is considering cheaper brands such as those retailed in the supermarkets and discounter stores. c. Social factor The recent financial crisis had a tremendous effect in UK’s consumer behaviour. They begun shopping for clothes in supermarkets and discounter stores to be able to save on cost. Where before quality and brand was a premium among the consumer’s consideration in shopping for clothes, the crisis shifted their preference towards price. d. Technological factor Technology has also contributed to the change in the UK fashion industry. It made retailing cheap through e-commerce that requires very minimal overhead affording retailers to cut their price further to better respond to competition. e. Environmental factor The increasing awareness towards environmental degradation as felt by many and advocated by government and concerned groups has not only made consumers conscious in the kind of materials of the products are made that they buy not only in the fashion industry but also in other industry as well. Furs which used to be fashionable are now considered to be a fashion eye sore and the use of leathers are now regulated. f. Legislative factor The lifting of the lifting of the two trade barriers known as Multifbre Agreement (MFA, 1974 to 1994) and the Agreement on Textile and Clothing (1995 to 2004) also provided an avenue for local retailers to be exempted from from Value Added Tax (VAT) by complying with the four legislative requirement of UK. The four legislative requirement to qualify for VAT exemption are as follows: It must be an article of clothing or footwear; It must not be made of fur; It must be designed for young children, and It must only be suitable for young children†(HM Revenue & Customs 2011). This exemption however is limited because it is only limited to children’s wear and could be a double edged sword because competitors can also avail the same exemption. Government however has also provided incentive to import cheaper textiles provided that the strict regulations on clothing are complied with which are; â€Å"The General Product Safety Regulations 2005. The Children's Clothing (Hood Cords) Regulations 1976. The Nightwear (Safety) Regulations 1985†(The National Archives 2011). II. Porter Five Forces a. s. Threat of rivalry The opening of the UK fashion industry to imports has intensified rivalry among retailers because it now includes foreign competitors as well. In addition, the swelling of cheap textiles from other countries (i.e. China, India) conveniently made it supermarket stores and discounter stores to be an effective cheap retailers of fashion clothings which pose a real threat to traditional modes of retail in the fashion industry. The rivalry posed by supermarkets and discounter stores has sign ificantly depressed the price of fashion clothing that reduced the bottom and middle segments of the market to be intensely competitive (Thame 2010) and making it very difficult for other retailers to compete. b. Threat of substitute products Clothing is a basic necessity and clothing is as basic as food itself. Therefore, clothes cannot be substituted. The threat in the fashion in
Friday, October 18, 2019
Opportunistic Microbial Infections Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words
Opportunistic Microbial Infections - Essay Example Opportunistic Infections Immmunocompromised patients are vulnerable to opportunistic infections caused by organisms of lower pathogenecity, besides being also susceptible to primary pathogens causing disease among immunocompetent hosts resistant to opportunistic infections. â€Å"Many opportunistic infections arise from the individual’s own flora or local environment†2, at or near the microbes’ normal sites of colonization. Hence, some normal flora species are associated with particular opportunistic infections. For example, Bacteroides fragilis is associated with abdominal infections, Staphylococcus epidermidis with catheter infections, and Escherichia coli with urinary tract infections3. Bacterial Opportunistic Infection Staphylococcus aureus causes the greatest number of pyodermas and soft tissue infections. It is not one of the cutaneous resident flora, however â€Å"it colonizes the anterior nares in up to 25% of healthy individuals at any one time and more than 50% of chronically ill individuals†4. ... Once established in the skin, S. aureus invades more deeply into the soft tissue resulting in erysipelas or horizontal spread in lymphatics, and cellulitis or vertical spread into subcutaneous fat. Further, â€Å"S. aureus is the most common cause of wound infections†5. Risk factors for surgical wound infections include host factors such as immune status, diabetes mellitus; surgical factors such as foreign body use and disruption of tissue perfusion accompanying surgical procedure; and staphylococcal factors such as substances that mediate tissue adherence and invasion, or that facilitate staphylococci surviving host defenses and antibiotics in tissues, and antimicrobial prophylaxis. Bacteremia can lead to deposition of S. aureus in the skin, resulting in â€Å"petechiae, hemorrhages, subcutaneous nodules, soft tissue infections, and pyomyositis†6. Parasitic Opportunistic Infection Some chronic parasitic infections that are reactivated in immunocomprised patients includ e those caused by Strongyloides stercoralis. Weakened cell-mediated immunity in pregnancy, during chemotherapy with corticosteroids, and in organ transplantation, may enable reactivation of toxoplasmosis and congenital infection7. Further, â€Å"S. stercoralis is able to cause autoinfection giving rise to chronic infestations in the immunocompetent†8. Strongyloides stercoralis is an intestinal parasite, and causes strongyloidiasis. The parasite uniquely carries out its entire life cycle within the human body. Hence, in immunocompromised patients, â€Å"strongyloidiasis can lead to a hyper infection syndrome with high morbidity and mortality due to the accelerated endogenous autoinfection†9. Strongyloidiasis that
Management and Organisational Development Module Essay - 1
Management and Organisational Development Module - Essay Example The managerial structure of Reddix has suggested the promulgation and inception of a knowledge management initiative which would ensure that they are better able to cope with the rapid advances in healthcare and have to a health care in understanding and interpreting clinical information and data in to interpret context-based healthcare information. The consultants have already declared that the current IT infrastructure at Reddix cannot cope with this restructuring.It is admitted that the KM system as proposed by the consultants will be immensely beneficial to the patients and management in terms of integrating the electronic patient records (EPR) that are held by the NHS with the process of physicians and GPs ordering medical tests or medications. The main hurdle is thus not technical. Knowledge management is a culture and does not entail a simple change of hardware and software and processes. Thus the suggestion for the inception of a ‘knowledge sharing culture’ wh ich entails management of information as well as the management of people in whose hands this information is. This report focuses on one of major gaps in any Knowledge management Initiative and that is the lack of this Knowledge sharing culture with in the key stakeholders of the Hospitals Organisational structure. The way ahead for an institution which is falling behind in the technological arena is indeed Knowledge Management and as I would like to add to this strategy it should also incorporate the notions of Strategic Information Management and the Business Score Card Approach ,which will allow the strategic management of information to avoid future problems of interoperability.
Thursday, October 17, 2019
Crowd safety by design Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words
Crowd safety by design - Essay Example This will make the people in the concert to be in good safety. There will also be the management structure which will provide all the details needed for the planning of the design. This will organize on how the three sides of the concerts will be designed and the front hall be organized. When everything is well analyzed and planned, implementation of the crowd and safety will be given the first priority. This is a stage that will be very critical and it will be well analyzed by the team which will be in control. Under the implementation, there will be numerous proposals that will be forwarded to the crowd and safety team of the concert giving them the chance for them to choose from the best plans. There will be an understanding between all the parties when creating a design model of the concert. The roles and responsibilities of all the members involved in the process will be well analyzed and noted. This will lead to the creation of the statement of intent (SOI). The crowd manager is not supposed to control everything in the project and he should not be responsible of every responsibility because there are other seat levels that are responsible. SOI will be responsible for allocating responsibilities to the right levels in the management of the crowd and safety creation. It will assign a leader the only required responsibilities and omit the unrequited ones. In the design of the crowd management, there will be specific references and legislation that will be required giving a systemic implementation that will be very legal. Functions will be drawn that will be very important in the design where there will a thorough control over the stages and each of them with contribute to the creation of strategic, tactical and operational design processes of the concert seats which will be successful in the design. All the commands and control functions will be well
Personal Leadership Development Plan Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words
Personal Leadership Development Plan - Essay Example The principles of appreciative coaching are differentiated herein: The Constructivist Principle focuses on the influence of social structures in significantly affecting the behavior of individuals in relation to others. The Positive Principle, as the term implies, centers on the positive aspects of an individual’s life through experiences that have been perceived to be constructive and optimistic in general. In addition, the Anticipatory Principle ventures on anticipated scenarios that become the basis for behavior and decision making processes. The Poetic Principle, on the other hand, creatively utilizes vivid illustrations and storytelling to solicit crucial information, not solely on the facts, but also in terms of emotional experiences. And finally, the Principle of Simultaneity focuses on the premise that â€Å"inquiry is change†¦ (and) intervention†and guidance is redirected to the first inquiry and its influence to effect change. Personal Assessment of Leadership Coaching Skills To increase one’s capacity to lead, coach, and develop others, one realized the need to familiarize oneself with the basic theoretical framework needed for leadership coaching. The objective is to be achieved through a research on secondary literatures on the crucial elements of coaching and leadership from a coaching perspective. As indicated by Peters & Austin (1985), â€Å"coaching is a form of leadership that pulls together people with diverse talents, backgrounds, experiences and interests, encourages them to step up to responsibility" and continued achievement, and treats them as full scale partners and contributors†(p. 232). Likewise, the authors emphasized that â€Å"coaching is not about memorising techniques or devising the perfect game plan. It is about really paying attention to people – really believing them, really caring about them, really involving themâ€
Wednesday, October 16, 2019
Crowd safety by design Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words
Crowd safety by design - Essay Example This will make the people in the concert to be in good safety. There will also be the management structure which will provide all the details needed for the planning of the design. This will organize on how the three sides of the concerts will be designed and the front hall be organized. When everything is well analyzed and planned, implementation of the crowd and safety will be given the first priority. This is a stage that will be very critical and it will be well analyzed by the team which will be in control. Under the implementation, there will be numerous proposals that will be forwarded to the crowd and safety team of the concert giving them the chance for them to choose from the best plans. There will be an understanding between all the parties when creating a design model of the concert. The roles and responsibilities of all the members involved in the process will be well analyzed and noted. This will lead to the creation of the statement of intent (SOI). The crowd manager is not supposed to control everything in the project and he should not be responsible of every responsibility because there are other seat levels that are responsible. SOI will be responsible for allocating responsibilities to the right levels in the management of the crowd and safety creation. It will assign a leader the only required responsibilities and omit the unrequited ones. In the design of the crowd management, there will be specific references and legislation that will be required giving a systemic implementation that will be very legal. Functions will be drawn that will be very important in the design where there will a thorough control over the stages and each of them with contribute to the creation of strategic, tactical and operational design processes of the concert seats which will be successful in the design. All the commands and control functions will be well
Tuesday, October 15, 2019
Questionnaire Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words - 4
Questionnaire - Essay Example 1. Please state your gender Gender --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 2. Please state the ethnic group you belong to 3. What is your age bracket? Age (Years) 16-24 25-34 35-44 45-54 55+ 4. Please indicate your highest level of education A Primary B Secondary C College D University E Post Graduate 5. How many years have you been teaching pre-school? 6. Does your institution provide napping opportunities for pre-school children? (Tick as appropriate) YES NO 7. How many minutes does your institution provide for napping 8. What is the age limit for children for children to stop napping at your institution 9. Do you believe napping is beneficial to children? (Tick as appropriate) YES NO 10. Are there any noticeable differences between a child who has taken a nap and one who hasn’t? If yes, please state the differences. 11. In your opinion what are the benefits of napping to children? 12. Are there differences in napping and slee p problems for children of different racial backgrounds (Blacks vs whites). (Tick as appropriate) YES NO Please explain a little. 13. What is the interdependence between napping and child’s level of focus and movement rate? 14. Do daytime naps affect night time rest in preschool children? 15. What impact does napping have on school going children
Meeting the learning needs of all the children Essay Example for Free
Meeting the learning needs of all the children Essay Although these areas seem separate, they are not planned for individually. One activity may cover three or four areas of learning. In my opinion the Guidance Document is very repetitive. This can be due to the fact that one focused activity can cover many areas of the six areas of learning. Children are developing at different rates and in many different ways. Some children will be better in certain areas whereas some children may excel in other areas, and the Curriculum Guidance for the Foundation Stage (DfEE/QCA, 2000) recognises this, and therefore identifies a number of developmental stepping stones which identify the relevant knowledge, understanding, skills and attitudes needed to achieve each goal. (ibid, pg. 5) In reference to my research, I have found that the Foundation Guidance document is inspired by the work of Jean Piaget and his four stages of child development. Piaget believed that children are born with the ability to think and must successfully pass through each stage of cognitive development before beginning the next stage. (Daly, M, etal, 2004, pg. 73-74) In my school and nursery experience, I found that all learning and planning begins at building from previous experiences/learning. I agree with Piagets theory that in order for children to develop their thinking they must be able to draw upon prior experiences first. Nursery settings allow children to explore and build upon a variety of different experiences through play and adult initiated activities, which provide a basis for learning when they reach school. My 3-5 placement was based in a nursery which allowed for children aged between 3-4. The nursery has two sessions, one in the morning from 9. 00am to 11. 30am, and one in the afternoon from 12. 30pm to 3. 00pm. Each session catered for a different group of children. The children are not grouped according to ability; they tend to follow friendship groups. The staff invites children to join in focused activities. The children are never forced to do anything they dont want to. Continuous provision is the principle set up that the nursery follow and the children are free to explore all areas. These include the water area, sand, dough, home, book and construction areas. A painting area is also positioned in a child friendly location set up with primary and secondary colours. The mathematics table, writing table and work shop table is set with different activities on a daily basis. Children are learning through experimentation most of the time. I was surprised to observe just how much the children were learning without even realizing. Learning through play is a simple yet extremely effective way of learning for young children. Staff promotes learning by being well organized, each member of staff has a set responsibility and work on a rota system. All the equipment and resources are at child level and nearly everything has label or has a picture for where things belong. They follow a self tidy up rule which the parents are asked to implement at home also. The teacher ensures in her planning that all six areas of learning are covered throughout all activities which I will discuss in more depth; this includes outdoor play which is also specially planned for. Well-planned play, both indoors and outdoors, is a key way in which young children learn with enjoyment and challenge. (DfEE/QCA, 2000:25) Resources are brightly coloured and are in interesting, familiar shapes. The home corner is quite realistic and the children role play families thus developing communication, sharing and turn-taking skills. I also observed that each area for learning e. g. the sand area, are set separately, with at least 100cm between them. I believe this is a good strategy as the children are less distracted when working/playing and finished what they were doing instead of leaving things half done.
Monday, October 14, 2019
Erosive Potential of Fruit Juices on Primary Teeth
Erosive Potential of Fruit Juices on Primary Teeth In Vitro evaluation of erosive potential of frozen and unfrozen fruit juices on primary teeth ABSTRACT: Dental erosion has gained importance now as a steadily growing public health problem world wide. Fruit juices are an important etiological factor, especially consumption in frozen forms, like fruit lollies and stick. Since this dietary habit is more prevalent among children, primary teeth were selected for this study. AIMS: To evaluate pH and titratable acidity of four fruit juices in frozen and unfrozen forms. Calcium dissolution and pattern of etching of enamel by these juices in frozen and unfrozen forms were also determined. DESIGN: pH of four different juices apple, orange, musumbi and grapes were determined using a digital pH meter. The titratable acidity of these in frozen and unfrozen forms were determined by adding 0.5 ml of 1N NaOH to these, till a pH=five and pH = seven were reached. Forty eight caries free deciduous anterior teeth specimens were prepared to study the etching pattern by scanning electron microscope [SEM] and calcium dissolution by atomic absorption spectrophotometer.STATISTICAL ANALYSIS: One-Way Repeated Measures ANOVA and pair wise multiple comparison with Bonferroni correction. RESULTS: Increase in titratable acidity, irregular pattern of etching and calcium dissolution were found to be significantly more in the initial thawed frozen fruit juices. Grape juice recorded the lowest pH and more titratable acidity when compared to other juices. CONCLUSION: This study highlights the detrimental effect on teeth by the frequent consumption of fruit juices and their frozen products. Th e study concluded that sucking on the frozen fruit juice products were more harmful than consuming in unfrozen state because more of erosion occurs in frozen state. Key words: Frozen fruit juices, pH, titratable acidity, erosion, etching, SEM. Introduction: â€Å"HEALTHY LIVING â€Å"the key to survival has been emphasized by health professionals upon the old and young alike. The â€Å"DIETARY FACTOR†is gaining much accolade and health drinks in the form of fruit juices have gained tremendous popularity in this category. Parents regard these as being healthy and nutritious and a good source of Vitamin C.[1]. Experiments conducted on the animals to evaluate the erosive potential of fruit juices showed that these juices were ten times more destructive to the teeth than the whole fruit.[2] Most fruit juices have a low pH and acids which can decalcify the teeth.[3] Hence, the frequent consumption of these fruit drinks is directly related to dental morbidity, especially erosio n.[4]Dental erosion has been defined as superficial loss of dental hard tissue by a chemical process not involving bacteria.[5] The aetiopathogenesis can be varied (intrinsic and extrinsic factors),most important are dietary acids.[6] A modern habit among consumers is to freeze and suck out fruit lolly and candies.Sucking on frozen fruit juices has a greater risk for erosion due to slow consumption and longer time required to neutralize it[7].Sucking of the melting juices from the frozen product is a pleasurable experience along with increase in the initial acidity and buffering capacity.[8]Hence the frequent use of these could produce damaging effects on the teeth. Primary teeth were included in this study,because children are frequently involved in the consumption of frozen fruit juices and deciduous teeth are more susceptible to erosion than permanent teeth due to less mineralisation and immature enamel surface[9] The study was performed to evaluate the pH of four fruit juices in a frozen and unfrozen form. The titratable acidity of these fruit juices to be checked. The total amount of calcium dissolved in fruit juices from the teeth and to study the pattern of etched enamel on teeth. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Preparation of juices: Two and half litres of four different fresh fruit juices namely apple, orange, grape and musumbi each were prepared with no added sugars or preservatives. These were allowed to equilibrate to room temperature. Specimen preparation: Fourty eight freshly extracted caries free deciduous anterior teeth were collected and were used in the study. Extracted teeth were completely coated with nail polish with the exception of a window on the enamel of the labial surface of approximately 2mm X 2mm in diameter. Method: Two and half litres of apple juice were shaken for 15sec and this was divided into four samples of 600ml each. First sample (600ml) of this was taken and calcium concentration was assessed. From this, 100 ml was separated, pH and titratable acidity were determined.Then another 100 ml was taken and a prepared tooth specimen was dipped in it for two hrs.(For assessment of calcium etching pattern at room temp). Remaining 400ml was taken in a bottle, sealed and placed in a recorded (-200c) deep freezer for 24 hrs. The bottle was taken and allowed to defrost. From this, initial 100ml was taken, pH and titratable acidity were determined. Then another 100 ml was taken and a prepared tooth was dipped in it for two hrs( For assessment of calcium etching pattern immediately after defrosting). Remaining 200 ml was defrosted for two hours. Then 100 ml of this was taken and pH and titratable acidity were determined. Another 100 ml was taken and a prepared tooth was dipped in it for two hrs (For assessment of calcium etching pattern two hrs after defrosting). This was repeated for remaining three samples (600ml each) of apple juice. The same procedure was done for the other three juices musumbi, orange and grape juice and the values recorded [Table1,2,3] Determination of pH and titratable acidity: pH was determined by using a pH meter (digital pH meter model –EQ-612). After determining the pH, the juice was titrated against 1N( Na OH )Sodium hydroxide by adding 0.5ml of the same to the juice, mixed well and this were repeated until pH=five and pH=seven were reached to determine their titratable acidity. Assessment of calcium content: The teeth were carefully lifted out of the juices and the juices were centrifuged at 3500 rpm for five min. With the help of micropipette [superfit] 200ÃŽ ¼l of each of these samples of fruit juices were pipetted into the polypropylene tubes. Then 40ÃŽ ¼l distilled water were rinsed into the polypropylene tubes with the fruit juices. Then concentrated nitric acid (120ÃŽ ¼l) were added, the lid of the polypropylene tube sealed and the contents of the tube were wet washed, by leaving it at 600c for 12hrs. After cooling, 50ÃŽ ¼l of one mol/L KCl solution (an ionization suppressant) and 680ÃŽ ¼l of distilled water were added. Then samples were shaken and the calcium concentrations were determined by the use of a flame (nitrous oxide/acetylene) atomic absorption spectrophotometer. To obtain calcium content of the fruit juices (without teeth), 200 ÃŽ ¼l of the fruit juices were wet ashed and atomized exactly as mentioned above. Determination of etching pattern: The teeth specimens were prepared for SEM observation by dehydration followed by sputter coating of 20 nm of gold (JEOL,JFC 1100 E-JAPAN) and examined under a scanning electron microscope (JEOL,JSM-840A-JAPAN).Instant photomicrographs were made at X850,X1000 magnifications. Subsequently the X1000 magnification pictures were selected to compare the pattern of etched enamel surfaces. Statistical analysis: The data obtained were subjected to statistical analysis by using One-Way Repeated Measures ANOVA and Pair wise multiple comparison with Bonferroni correction RESULTS: RECORDED pH VALUES OF FOUR FRUIT JUICES (Table 1) Based on the results obtained in Table 1, the pH values of all the juices were less than 5.5, which is the critical pH, below which enamel dissolves. Grape juice recorded the lowest pH of 2.2 among the juices. TITRATABLE ACIDITY VALUES OF FOUR FRUIT JUICES (Table 2) For all the four fruit juices tested, the volume of 0.5 ml 1N NaOH needed to reach pH=five and pH= seven were more for immediate defrosted( initial thawed )juices than the juices at room temperature and that defrosted for two hrs. Hence, the immediate defrosted juices had more titratable acidity compared to the juices tested at other temperatures. Among the juices, grape juice had more titratable acidity. CALCIUM CONCENTRATION IN FOUR SAMPLES OF FRUIT JUICES MEASURED BY ATOMIC ABSORPTION SPECTROPHOTOMETER ( Table 3) The amount of calcium dissolution in the juices from the teeth were found to be significantly more in the immediate defrosted juices than the room temperature juices and that defrosted for two hours. Evaluation of SEM Images : Representative SEM photomicrographs at magnification X1000. For teeth immersed in juices at room temperature, relatively smooth and slightly etched enamel surfaces were seen.[Figures 1- 4] Teeth dipped in juices immediately after defrosting, showed maximal erosion. Among these, apple showed eroded surface with enhanced porosity[figure5],a honeycomb enamel prism pattern noted in musumbi similar to that seen in acid etched enamel[figure 6].Teeth in orange and grapes showed more erosion resembling type II acid etching pattern [figures 7,8]. In case of teeth kept in juices two hrs after defrosting, the changes were similar to those seen at room temperature [figures 9-12]. DISCUSSION: The awareness of the population about health has lead to an increased consumption of natural food products, especially fruits and fruit juices. But fruit juices contain substantial acids(eg: citric acid in citrus fruits, malic acid in apples, tartaric acid in grapes)[10]which have the potential to cause loss of tooth tissue.[11][12] Various extrinsic and intrinsic factors contribute to dental erosion like diet, medicaments, occupation, sports, GERD, peptic ulcer, uremia etc.[13][14]But most significant among these are dietary acids .[3][4][15] Dental erosion due to dietary acids are influenced by a variety of factors like pH, titratable acidity, temperature, concentration, frequency, and exposure time[16].Many host factors also modify erosion, most important is saliva[17].Reduced salivary flow rate leads to inadequate oral clearance of dietary acids. Consumption of juices at night increases the erosive potential as salivary flow rate is diminished during this period. [18].Also different studies on salivary flow rate indicated that young children have lower flow rate, resulting in defective oral clearance. [19]. Intake of dietary acids decreases pH of the oral environment. Gregory-Head B et al[20] suggested that the pH of the oral cavity affected the solubility of the dental tissues. The critical pH at which the chemical dissolution of enamel occurs is accepted to be 5.5 ±0.3.[4][21]In this study, all the four fruit juices namely in the order of grape, orange, musumbi and apple showed a pH below five, thus enhancing the enamel dissolution capacity.[22] Titratable acidity which denotes the hydrogen ion availability has been acknowledged as a true indicator of erosive potential rather than pH value alone[23].Studies conducted by Touyz etal[8] have shown that fruit juices have a high intrinsic buffering capacity.Modifying the form in which the fruit drinks are taken (sweets or frozen lollies) is expected to increase erosion[24][25]. Sucking frozen fruit juices could be more erosive than unfrozen fruit juices because of increase in buffering capacity of initial thawed juice[8][26].. The acidity increases on freezing, as the physical state of the residual juice changes. When juice is frozen, water alone is solidified to ice without the solute. The solutes accumulates undiluted (concentrated). When juice is defrosted, the initial(concentrated) melt is more acidic with increased buffering capacity Thus sucking on these could cause a greater fall in oral pH and requires more buffering action to normalize the oral environment pH .As the remaining ice melts and dilutes the solution back to pre-freezed state, the buffering capacity diminishes.[8] The calcium dissolution potential of these fruit juices was analyzed. It was found to be more in the initial thawed fruit juices than juices tested at other temperatures. This is in accordance with the findings of M.Silove [8][26] who suggested that sucking frozen fruit juices can lead to more calcium dissolution than unfrozen juices. Also in our study, lowest calcium concentration was found in grape juice which is in accordance with studies stating that the erosive potential of drinks are associated with low calcium concentration[27] SEM was done to qualitatively estimate enamel surface alterations. Irregular and pitted enamel surface were observed in teeth exposed to frozen juices than at room temperature and after two hours of defrosting. Different etching patterns as described earlier were observed. [28-30] Similar studies were done on commercially available fruit juices and they are found to be 6-8 times more erosive than homemade juices. [31-33]The significance of this study was that, it was done in pure fruit juices, in frozen and unfrozen forms and multiple parameters were analyzed. The results showed that even pure fruit juices had erosive potential, especially in frozen forms. This study was done in vitro conditions, the results cannot be completely extrapolated to in vivo process, as interplay of various oral factors like salivary buffering capacity and flow rate to counteract erosion were not included in the study. [17] Recommendations: Although fruit juices are good for health, the frequency, method of drinking and the form in which they are consumed are important factors in dental erosion. Since children are frequently involved in the sucking of frozen fruit juice products, pediatric dentists should strongly discourage them from practicing this form of habit. Advise them to avoid fruit juices at bedtime and always rinse mouth with water after consumption of juices. Another point to consider is the use of additives which alter the pH and titratable acidity, thereby reducing the erosive potential of fruit juices. This requires further study. References: 1. Touyz L.Z.G . The Vitamin C contents of foods. J DASA 1982;37:444-48 2. Miller C.D.Enamel erosive properties of fruits and fruit juices.J Nutr 1950;41:63-67. 3. Touyz L.Z.G,Glassman R.M. Citrus acids and teeth. J DASA 1981;36:195-201 4. Eccles J.D,Jenkins W.G. Dental erosion and diet. J Dent 1974;2:153-159 5. R.Rajendran, author. Shafer’s textbook of Oral Pathology,5th Edition. Elsevier India 6. Lussi A,Jaeggi T,Zero D.The role of diet in the etiology of dental erosion.Caries Res 2004;38 suppl 1;34-44. 7. Kevin H-K Yip,Roger J Smales,John A Kaidonis.The diagnosis and control of extrinsic acid erosion of tooth substance.General dentistry 2003;350-353. 8. Touyz L.Z, Silove M. Increased acidity in frozen fruit juices and dental implications.ASDC J Dent child 1993;60:223-225. 9. Johansson AK,Sorvari R,Birkhed D,Meurman JH.Dental erosion in deciduous teeth-an in vivo and in vitro study.J Dent 2001;29:333-40. 10. Eccles J.D. Erosion affecting the palatal surfaces of upper anterior teeth in young people.Br Dent J.1982;152:375-378 11. Touyz L.Z.G. Apples, acids and teeth. S.A.J Sci 1980;76:200-201. 12. Grobler S.R,Aalbers J and Vander Horst G. The pH, calcium, potassium and phosphorus content in South African fruit juices. J. Dieteics Home Econ 1983;11:95-98 13.Jarvinen VK,Rytomaa II,Heinonen OP.Risk factors in dental erosion.J Dent Res 1991;70:942-947 14.Zero DT.Etiology of dental erosion-Extrinsic factors.Eur J Oral Sc 1996;104:162-177 15. Asher C,Read MJF. Early enamel erosion in children associated with the excessive consumption of citric acid. Br Dent J 1987;162:384-387 16. WestNX, Hughes JA, Addy M.Erosion of dentine and enamel in vitro by dietary acids:the effect of temperature,acid character,concentration and exposure time.J Oral Rehabil 2000;27:875-880. 17. Piangprach T,Hengtrakool C,Kukiattrakoon B,Kedjarune-Leggat U.The effect of salivary factors on dental erosion in various age groups and tooth surfaces.J Am Dent Assoc 2009 Sept;140(9):1137-43. 18.Millward A,Shaw L,Smith AJ,Rippin JW,Harrington E.The distribution and severity of tooth wear and relationship between erosion and dietary constituents in a group of children.Int J Pediatr Dent 1994;4:152-157 19.Crossner CG.Salivary flow rate in children and adolescents.Swed Dent J 1984;8:271-6 20. Gregory Head B, Curtis D. Erosion caused by gastro esophageal reflux :diagnostic considerations. J Prosthodont 1997;6:278-285 21.Jenkins,G.N.The physiology and biochemistry of the mouth.4th edition.Oxford, Blackwell,1978, pp 360-413. 22. Jenkins G.N. The influence of environmental fluids on enamel solubility.J Dent Res 1966;45:662-669. 23. Owens BM.The potential effects of pH and buffering capacity on dental erosion.Gen Dent 2007 Nov-Dec; 55(6):527-31. 24. M.J Larsen B.Nyvad. Enamel erosion by some soft drinks and orange juices relative to their pH buffering effect and contents of calcium phosphate. Caries Res 1999;33(Supplement 1):81-87 25. Holloway P.J , Mellanby M. and Stewart R.J.Fruit drinks and tooth erosion.Br Dent.J 1958;104:305-9 26. Louis LZ,G Touyz.The acidity and buffering capacity of Canadian fruit juices and dental implications. Scientific Journal 1994;60:454-48 27. West NX,Hughes JA, ParkerDM, Newcombe RG,Addy M.Development and evaluation of a low erosive black currant juice drink.2.Comparison with a conventional black currant juice drink and orange juice.J Dent1999 ;27:341-344 28. Imfeld T:Dental erosion.Definition,Classification and links.Eur J Oral Sci 1996;104: 151-155 29.Mannerberg F.Changes in the enamel surface in case of erosion.A replica study.Arch Oral Biol 1961;4:59-62 30.Silverstone,Saxton,Dogon. Variations in the pattern of acid etching of human enamel examined by SEM. Caries Res 1975;9:373. 31. Albert Schuurs.Pathology of the hard dental tissues.Ist edition.Wiley-Blackwell;2013. pp158-159 32. Shaw L,Smith A.Erosion in children:An increasing clinical problem?Dent Update 1994;21:103-106. 33. Tahmassebi JF, Duggal MS, Malik-Kotru G,Curzon MEJ.Soft drinks and dental health:a review of the current literature.J Dent 2006;34:2-11
Sunday, October 13, 2019
Crime and Punishment and Raskolnikovs article, On Crime :: Crime Punishment Essays
Crime and Punishment and Raskolnikov's article, "On Crime" Raskolnikov's article, "On Crime," is vital to the understanding of his beliefs. This article also has a profound effect on Crime and Punishment as a whole, the subject matter being one of the main themes of the novel. The idea of the "extraordinary man" is referred to literally throughout the book, but also notable is the subconscious effect the idea has on Raskolnikov. Sometimes Raskolnikov is not even aware of this influence. It is important to note originality, or the ability to "utter a new word," as a defining characteristic of the extraordinary man. Therefore, we must take into account the presence of similar ideas, those of Pisarev, Nietzsche, and nihilism, as these might bring to light the possibility that Raskolnikov is not original, a possibility that haunts him throughout the novel. Within the article Raskolnikov analyzes the psychology of a criminal before and after the crime. This main portion of the article is not discussed, but it is likely that the psychological explanation that Porfiry gives Raskolnikov later, in the examination, is very similar. During this later examination, Raskolnikov appears resentful, but never disputes what Porfiry tells him, perhaps because it is a regurgitation of Raskolnikov's own thoughts. In the last meeting of the two men, Porfiry admits that he liked the article very much, and actually felt a connection with it. The one part of the main body of the article that is mentioned is "that the perpetration of a crime is always accompanied by illness" (225). Porfiry comments that this idea is very original; Raskolnikov welcomes this praise. Shortly, Porfiry moves on to the main topic of their discussion, a topic only mentioned briefly in the article, the idea that "certain persons...have a perfect right to commit breaches of morality and crimes" (225). Raskolnikov immediately realizes that Porfiry is intentionally exaggerating the idea, and "decided to take up the challenge" (226). Dostoevsky lets the reader know that the conversation will be a battle of wits. The ensuing argumentative dialogue makes the passage very entertaining, especially in contrast to later interviews between the two, in which Porfiry does nearly all the talking (he loves to hear himself talk). Raskolnikov attempts to clarify his idea, explaining that the "extraordinary" people have the right, but are not bound, to "overstep obstacles" if it is "essential" for the fulfillment of their idea.
Friday, October 11, 2019
Sigmund Freud and Everyday Use :: Everyday Use essays
Sigmund Freud and Everyday Use Sigmund Freud is best known for his development and use of psychoanalysis. The theory of psychoanalysis focuses on the concept of how our unconscious thoughts, feelings, and emotions play an active role in our daily lives. The id, ego, and superego are the three mental zones that encompass our psyche. Each zone has a specific function: The id functions on the pleasure principle; the ego on the protection of the individual; and the superego on protection of society. The degree of which each zone has been developed can be broken down and then analyzed. These three zones can be visualized by imagining a pie cut into three slices. Every individual is composed of different amounts of each mental zone. The ultimate goal is to achieve the perfect balance of the three areas by understanding how each area works alone and contributes to make the whole. In the short story "Everyday Use" by Alice Walker, Dee's actions are clearly attributed to her over and under development in specific mental zones. Dee, rather Wangero as she prefers being called, suffers from an overdeveloped id, a distorted sense of ego, and an underdeveloped superego. With this degree of pull and tug, misunderstandings are a common experience between Dee (Wangero) and her peers. The id is the main energy source for the psyche. The id " '...knows no values, no good and evil, no morality' " (HCAL 130); it functions on instinctual motives. Dee (Wangero) possesses a straightforward, rather blunt, disposition about life. Life is hers for the taking and she dares anything to stand in her way. She takes on the attitude that the world was created to satisfy her. Since the world gave her books to read, she expected the world to listen to her read; because the world giving her clothing options to choose from, she expected the world to respect her choices; in changing her name, she expected the world to honor this change. Her id was overdeveloped because she acted on instinctual sources rather than moral for her decisions. The overdeveloped id frequently appears when the self-centered, self-serving side of her become more prominent than her outward orientated, selfless side.
Night World : Spellbinder Chapter 11
I don't understand,†Eric said pitifully as Thea towed him toward the bleachers. â€Å"Well, that's reasonable.†â€Å"Blaise wants to talk to me alone and you want me to do it.†â€Å"That's right.†Thea hadn't realized it was possible to sound bright and bleak at the same time. â€Å"I told you she'd probably go after you-â€Å" â€Å"And you told me to be careful of her. You made the point very strongly.†â€Å"I know. It's just†¦Ã¢â‚¬ Thea searched for an explanation that wouldn't be too much of a lie and clutched her bottle of Evian water. She didn't need to ask him if he had the protective charm with him- she could smell New Hampshire pine needles. â€Å"It's just that I think it's better to get things settled,†she said finally. â€Å"One way or the other. So maybe if you talk to her face-to-face†¦ well, you can decide what you want, and we can get this over with.†â€Å"Thea†¦Ã¢â‚¬ Eric stopped, forcing Thea to stop, too. He looked completely bewildered. â€Å"Thea-I don't know what you're thinking, but I don't need to talk to Blaise to know what I want.†He put his hands gently on her upper arms. â€Å"Nothing she can say could make any difference.†Thea looked at him, at his clean, good features and his expressive eyes. He thought things were so simple. â€Å"Then you can just tell her that,†she said, trying to sound optimistic. â€Å"And the whole thing will be resolved.†Eric shook his head, but allowed her to guide him onward. Blaise was leaning against a concrete dugout by the baseball diamond. When they were about ten feet away, Thea stopped and nodded at Eric to keep going. He walked to Blaise, who slowly straightened with the leisurely grace of a snake uncoiling. Thea put her thumb into the Evian bottle and jiggled it gently. â€Å"Thea said you wanted to talk to me.†Eric's voice was polite, but not encouraging. He looked back at Thea after he said it. â€Å"I did,†Blaise said in her liquid, persuasive voice. But to Thea's surprise, she addressed the ground, as if she felt awkward. â€Å"But now†¦ well, I feel so embarrassed. I know what you probably think of me-trying to say something like this while your girlfriend is standing there.†â€Å"Well†¦Ã¢â‚¬ Eric glanced back at Thea again. â€Å"It's okay,†he added, his voice softer. â€Å"I mean, it's better to say whatever it is in front of her than behind her back.†â€Å"Yes. Yes, that's true.†Blaise took a deep breath as if steeling herself and then lifted her head to meet Eric's eyes. What on earth is she doing? Thea stared at her cousin. Where did this scene come from? â€Å"Eric†¦ I don't know how to say this, but†¦ I care about you. I know how that sounds. You're thinking that I have dozens of guys, and the way I treat them I can't possibly care about any of them. And I don't blame you if you just want to walk away right now, without even listening to any more.†Blaise fiddled with the zipper at her throat. â€Å"Oh, look, I'm not going to walk away. I wouldn't do that to you,†Eric said, and his voice was even more gentle. â€Å"Thank you. You're being so nice-much nicer than I deserve.†Absently, as if it were the most casual of gestures, Blaise reached for the zipper at her throat and pulled it down. The necklace was revealed. Don't look directly at it, Thea told herself. She stared instead at the back of Eric's sandy head-which suddenly went very still. â€Å"And you know, this is going to sound strange, but most of those boys don't really like me.†Blaise's voice was soft now-seductive but vulnerable. â€Å"They just-want me. They look at the surface, and never even try to see any deeper. And that makes me feel†¦ so lonely sometimes.†In Thea's peripheral vision, gold stars and moons were shifting and flowing. Yemonja root and other delicious scents wafted toward her. She hadn't even noticed that the first time; she'd been too deep in the necklace's spell to analyze it. And a faint, high resonance hung in the air-two or three notes that seemed to shimmer almost above the threshold of hearing. Singing crystals. Of course. Blaise was assaulting every sense, weaving an inescapable golden web†¦ and the whole thing was tuned to Eric's blood. â€Å"All I've ever wanted is a guy who cares enough about me to look deeper than the surface.†Blaise's voice had a slight catch now. â€Å"And-well, before I knew Thea liked you, I guess I thought you might be that guy. Eric, please tell me-is that completely impossible? Should I just totally give up hope? Because if you say so, I will.†Eric was standing oddly now, as if he were crippled. Thea could see his breath coming faster. She didn't want to see his face-she knew what it would be like. Like Luke's. Blank wonder changing into slow adulation for Blaise. â€Å"Just tell me,†Blaise said, raising one hand in a gesture full of pathos. â€Å"And if you say no, I'll go away forever. But if†¦ if you think you could care about me†¦ even just a little†¦Ã¢â‚¬ She gazed at him with luminous, yearning eyes. â€Å"I†¦Ã¢â‚¬ Eric's voice was thick and hesitant. â€Å"I†¦ Blaise†¦Ã¢â‚¬ He couldn't seem to get started on a sentence. And no wonder. He's lost already. Certainty hit Thea, and she stopped shaking her plastic bottle. Her little Elixir of Abhorrence didn't stand a chance against Blaise's magic. Eric was hooked and Blaise was reeling him in. And it wasn't his fault. Nobody could be expected to hold out against the kind of enchantment Blaise was using. Enchantment and psychology so beautifully mixed that even Thea found herself half believing Blaise's story. But she had to try anyway. She couldn't let Eric go without a fight. With one final, violent shake, Thea took her thumb out of the bottle neck. Colorless liquid skyrocketed, spraying up and then raining down on Eric. A geyser of loathing. Only one thing went wrong. As soon as the mysterious downpour hit Eric, he turned to see where it was coming from. Instead of looking at Blaise when the elixir soaked into his skin, he was looking at Thea. She stared back into his gray-flecked eyes with a kind of horror. Twice. He'd been twice enchanted now, once to love Blaise and once to hate her. Oh, Eileithyia, it's over†¦. It was a crisis, and Thea responded instinctively. She reached for Eric, to save him, to be saved herself. She flung out a thought the way she'd fling out a hand to someone going over a cliff. Eric. A connection†¦ Like dosing a circuit-and that was all it took. Thea felt a wave of†¦ something, something hot and sweet, more magical than Blaise's magic. Distilled lightning, maybe. The air between her and Eric was so charged that she felt as though her skin was being brushed with velvet. It was like being at the intersection of cosmic force lines. And it was all okay. Eric's face was his ordinary face. Alive, alert, full of warmth-for her. Not zombie worship for Blaise. Thea. It can't be this simple. But it was. She and Eric were staring at each other in the quivering air and the universe was just one big singing crystal. We're right together. A yell shattered the silent communion. Thea looked toward the dugout and saw that Blaise the vulnerable had disappeared. â€Å"I'm wet,†Blaise shrieked. â€Å"Are you crazy? Do you have any idea what water drops do to silk?†Thea opened her mouth, then shut it again. She felt giddy with the sweetness of relief. She had no idea if Blaise really thought the elixir was only water-but one thing was clear. However strong Blaise's spell had been, it was broken now. And Blaise knew it. Blaise jerked the zipper up and stalked off. â€Å"She's mad,†Eric said. â€Å"Well†¦Ã¢â‚¬ Thea was still dizzy. â€Å"I told you she likes getting mad.†She took Eric's arm, very gently, and partly to steady herself. â€Å"Let's go.†They'd only gone a few steps when Eric said, â€Å"Thank God you hit me with that water.†â€Å"Yes.†Even if the elixir hadn't worked it had somehow broken Eric's concentration or distracted Blaise or something. She'd have to see if she could figure out what had happened to disrupt a spell as potent as the one Blaise had created†¦. â€Å"Yeah, because, you know, it was getting really awkward,†Eric went on. â€Å"I kept trying to think of a polite way to tell her there wasn't a chance, but I couldn't. And just when I realized I was going to have to say it and hurt her feelings-well, you soaked us.†Thea stopped dead. She stared at him. He was serious. â€Å"I mean-I know I hurt her feelings anyway. Or she wouldn't have gone away mad. Uh, are you mad now? Thea?†She started walking again. â€Å"Are you saying you didn't even want to be with her? Not even just a little?†He stopped. â€Å"How could I want to be with her when I want to be with you? I told you that before this whole thing started.†Maybe it's because we're soulmates. Maybe it's because he's so stubborn. But, whatever, I'd better never tell Blaise. She'll have a whole new reason for killing him if she finds out her spell bounced off like water off a duck. â€Å"Well, anyway, it's resolved now,†she murmured-and at that moment she really believed it. She was too happy to think about anything dreadful. â€Å"Is it? Does that mean that we can finally go out? Like on a date?†He sounded so wistful that Thea laughed. She felt light and free and full of energy. â€Å"Yeah. We could go right now. Or†¦ we could go in. Your house, I mean. I'd like to see your sister and Madame Curie again.†Eric made an â€Å"ouch†face. â€Å"Well, Madame Curie would probably like that. But Roz lost her case- the court ruled that the Boy Trekkers are a private organization. And she is not-pardon the pun-a happy camper.†â€Å"All the more reason we should go see her. Poor kid.†Eric looked at her quizzically. â€Å"You're serious? You have a choice of anywhere in Las Vegas and you'd like to go to my house?†â€Å"Why not?†Thea didn't mention that a human house was more exotic to her than anywhere else in Vegas. She was happy. It turned out to be a modest frame house, shaded by a couple of honest-to-goodness trees, not palms. Thea felt a twinge of shyness as they went inside. â€Å"Mom's still at work. And†-Eric checked his watch-â€Å"Roz is supposed to be in her room until five. Home detention. This morning she microwaved her Barbie dolls.†â€Å"That doesn't sound good for the microwave.†Rosamund's door was plastered with homemade Signs. DO NOT ENTER. KEEP OUT AND THIS MEANS ERIC. FEMINISM IS THE RADICAL NOTION THAT WOMEN ARE PEOPLE. When Eric opened the door a piggy bank shaped like a skunk came flying toward him. He ducked. It hit the wall and, amazingly, didn't break. â€Å"Roz-â€Å" â€Å"I hate everybody! And everybody hates me!†A hardback book came soaring. Eric shut the door fast. Bang. â€Å"Everybody doesn't hate you!†he yelled. â€Å"Well, I hate them! Go away!†Bang. Bang. Crash. â€Å"I think maybe we'd better leave her alone,†Eric said. â€Å"She gets a little moody sometimes. Want to see my room?†His room was nice, Thea decided. Lots of books, some smelling of mildew-â€Å"I get them at the used book stores.†Comparative Vertebrate Anatomy. Development and Structure of the Fetal Pig. The Red Pony. Most of them were about animals in some form or other. And lots of trophies. Baseball trophies, basketball trophies, a few tennis trophies. â€Å"I have to switch between baseball and tennis different years.†Sports equipment was scattered carelessly around, mixed with the books and some dirty socks. Not so different from a teenager's room in the Night World. Just a person's room. There was a picture of a man on the desk, a man with sandy hair and a glorious, lightning-bolt smile like Eric's. â€Å"Who is it?†â€Å"My dad. He died when Roz was little-a plane crash. He was a pilot.†Eric said it simply, but his eyes went dark. Thea said softly, â€Å"My parents died when I was little, too. What's sad is that I don't really remember them.†Eric looked at the picture again. â€Å"You know, I never thought about it, but I'm glad I do remember. At least we had him that long.†They smiled at each other. By the bed was a tank that gave off a pleasant percolating sound. Thea sat next to it and watched iridescent blue fish dart around. She turned off the bedside lamp to see the lighted tank better. â€Å"You like it?†â€Å"I like everything,†Thea said. She looked at him. â€Å"Everything.†Eric blinked. He eyed the bed Thea was sitting on, then slowly sat at the desk. He stuck out a casual elbow to lean on and papers showered to the floor. â€Å"Oops.†Thea stifled a laugh. â€Å"Is that the U.C. Davis application?†He looked up hopefully from gathering them. â€Å"It sure is. Want to see it?†Thea almost said yes. She was in such a cheerful mood, ready to agree to anything, be open to anything. But a moment of thought changed her mind. Some things were just going too far. â€Å"Not right now, thanks.†â€Å"Well†¦Ã¢â‚¬ He put the papers back. â€Å"You know, you still might think about transferring to the zoology class at school. Ms. Gasparro is a great teacher. And you'd really like what we're studying.†Maybe I could, Thea thought. What would it hurt? â€Å"And if you were ever interested. Dr. Salinger is always looking for extra help. It doesn't pay much, but it's good experience.†And†¦ what would that hurt? It's not as if I would be breaking any laws. I wouldn't have to use any powers, either, I could just be close to the animals. â€Å"I'll think about it,†she said. She could hear the suppressed excitement in her own voice. She looked at Eric, who was sitting with his elbows on his knees, leaning forward, watching her earnestly. â€Å"And- thanks,†she said softly. â€Å"For what?†â€Å"For†¦ wanting the best for me. For caring.†The light from the fish tank threw wavering blue patterns on the walls and ceiling. It made the bedroom seem like its own little underwater world. It danced over Thea's skin. Eric stared at her. Then he swallowed and shut his eyes. With his eyes still shut, he said in a muted voice, â€Å"I don't think you know how much I care.†Then he looked at her. That connection again. It seemed to be drawing them together-an almost physical feeling of attraction. It was exciting, but scary. Eric got up very slowly and crossed the room. He sat by Thea. Neither of them looked away. And then things just seemed to happen by themselves. Their fingers were intertwined. Thea was looking up and he was looking down. They were so close that their breath mingled. Thea shivered with the electricity. Everything seemed wrapped in a golden haze. Crash. Something hit the other side of the wall. â€Å"Ignore it; it's poltergeists,†Eric murmured. His lips were an inch from hers. â€Å"It's Rosamund,†Thea murmured back. â€Å"She feels bad-and it's not really fair. We should try and make her feel better.†She was so happy that she wanted everyone else to be happy, too. Eric groaned. â€Å"Thea†¦Ã¢â‚¬ â€Å"Let me just go see if I can cheer her up. I'll come back.†Eric shut his eyes, opened them, and turned on the lamp. He gave her a pained smile. â€Å"Okay. I have to water Mom's outside plants and feed the rabbits and stuff, anyway. Let me know when she's cheered up enough. I'll be waiting.†Thea knocked and ducked as she entered Rosamund's room. â€Å"Roz? Can I just talk to you for a minute?†â€Å"Don't call me that. I want you to call me Fred.†â€Å"Uh, how come Fred?†Thea sat cautiously on the edge of the bed-or not the bed, actually, the box springs. The mattress was across the room, standing on its side in a corner. The entire room looked as if it had been hit simultaneously by a hurricane and an earthquake, and it smelled strongly of guinea pig. Slowly, part of a sandy head appeared above the mattress. One green eye regarded Thea directly. â€Å"Because,†Rosamund said with terrible maturity, â€Å"I'm not a girl anymore. Things have always been this way for girls and they will always be this way and they are never going to change. And don't give me any of that B.S. about how females hear better and do better in submarines and have better fine motor skills, because I don't care. I'm going to be a boy now.†â€Å"You're a smart kid,†Thea said. She was surprised at how smart Roz was, and at how much she wanted to comfort her. â€Å"But you need to study your history. Things haven't always been this way. There were times when women and men were equals.†Rosamund just said, â€Å"When?†â€Å"Well-in ancient Crete, for one thing. They were all children of Eileithyia, the Great Goddess, and boys and girls both did dangerous stuff, like acrobatics on wild bulls. Of course†¦Ã¢â‚¬ Thea paused, struck by a thought. â€Å"The Greeks did come and conquer them.†â€Å"Uh-huh.†â€Å"But, um†-Thea wracked her brain for human history-â€Å"Well, the ancient Celts were okay-until the Romans came and conquered them. And†¦ and†¦Ã¢â‚¬ Human history was a problem. â€Å"I told you,†Rosamund said bitterly. â€Å"It always turns out the same. Now go away.†â€Å"Well†¦Ã¢â‚¬ Thea hesitated. It was the excitement that did it. The giddy feeling of everything being right with the world. It made her overconfident, made her feel as if Night World law were a little thing that could be dispensed with if necessary. Don't, a part of her mind whispered. Don't or you'll be sorry. But Rosamund was so miserable. And the golden glow was still around Thea, making her feel protected. Invulnerable. â€Å"Look,†she said. â€Å"This may not help much, but I'll tell you a story, a story that always made me feel better when I was a little girl. Only you have to keep it a secret.†There was a flicker of interest in Rosamund's green eyes. â€Å"A true story?†â€Å"Well-I can't really say it's true.†And that's true-I can't. â€Å"But it's a good story, and it's about a time when women were leaders. About a girl called Hellewise.â€
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)