Gerontology Case Study Essay Example

Gerontology Case Study Essay Comprehensive Scholarly Paper Gerontology is the scientific study of old age, the process of aging, and the particular problems of old people. With maturation the elderly suffer from age- related changes that effect their overall health and day to day living. Even those these changes provide limitations that can be lived with, these changes can also exacerbate many medical conditions. The elderly client I decided to evaluate, H. J. is a 76 year old african american female, that has a past medical history of chronic heart failure, myocardial infarction, hypertension, asthma, and renal mass. H. J. also has a past surgical history of a left mastectomy. She is retired and lives at home by herself and has one daughter. Some of her medical conditions are definitely effected by age as well as lifestyle. With age the heart and blood vessels undergo many changes. In the heart with age the SA node loses some of its cells, this may result in a lower heart rate. Abnormal rhythms such as atrial fibrillation, these arrhythmia are often due to heart failure. Hypertension in the elderly is also common. With an increase in age the systolic blood pressure can increase up to 20 mmHg on its own. We will write a custom essay sample on Gerontology Case Study specifically for you for only $16.38 $13.9/page Order now We will write a custom essay sample on Gerontology Case Study specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer We will write a custom essay sample on Gerontology Case Study specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer The baroreceptors become less sensitive with aging. This may explain why many older people have orthostatic hypotension. With all of these heart changes it is important that the elderly are educated about lifestyle changes. While H. J was a patient in the hospital she ordered a heart healthy diet, which helps control blood pressure and cholesterol. The patient also had a history of a stroke, which also has to do with lack of blood flow to the brain. The prevalence of all these medical conditions increase with age when the elderly are not properly taking care of themselves. It is important to be eating a healthy diet, exercising, and refraining from the abuse of substances. By this client being a previous intravenous drug abuser she is even more exposed to complication. Drug abuse can, cause cardiovascular conditions ranging from abnormal heart rate to heart attacks. Injected drugs can also lead to collapsed veins and infections of the blood vessels and heart valves. There are many considerations when it comes to medications and the elderly. Age-related changes often affect the action and availability of the medications in the body. Many of the elderly are also non-adherent to medication. For example although H. J was administered several medications in the hospital such as lovenox, protonix, Plavix, bactroban, methadone, and multivitamins, there was no list of medications in her file for reconciliation and I am almost certain it is because she refuses to take them. Just in that day I witnessed her refuse several medications as well as labs, while in the hospital. Following her many hospital visits she has been ordered several medications to be continued at home, but does not want to take them for her own ersonal reasons. There are many factors that can contribute to non-adherence which include; depression, cognitive impairment, isolated living conditions, finances, beliefs, adverse effects and knowledge deficit. It is likely this patient did not want to about how much the medicine could help her if she did take it. The medicine she was sure to take was her methadone. Methadone is mainly given to patients who suffered from a drug dependency and causes irritability when in between doses. Drug users who are struggling with a dependency definitely have a cognitive impairment and are ot often thinking with a clear head. Polypharmacy is also a issue with the elderly because of drug interactions. The elderly are more at risk for medication-medication interactions due to the fact they are prescribed so many medications. H. J did not have many functional limitations documented on her chart. She was able to feed herself without assistance, but did require assistance getting to the bedside commode. Since she is unable to get to the restroom alone in the hospital, it is a wonder how she maintains living at home alone. With her ambulation problems he is definitely at risk for falls at home. Each year, one in every three adults age 65 and older falls. Falls can cause moderate to severe injuries, such as hip fractures and head traumas, and can increase the risk of early death. It is important to teach older adults who live at home alone how to decrease the risks of falls. They must remove tripping hazards such as rugs, improve lighting, and add grab bars where needed. Instrumental activities of daily living would be even more difficult to complete for H. J. Assessment of her functional status in the hospital showed that some level ssistance would be necessary at home to complete tasks such as medication management, transportation, and bathroom assistance. Upon assessment I did observe some cognitive impairment which I believe was due to the effects of medication. Prior to the administration of methadone H. J was very uncooperative and unable to answer basic questions related to pain rating and orientation. She did not want to be bothered or assessed at all. About an hour and a half later following her medication administration she was much more talkative playful and willing to answer any questions I had to ask. She was also even willing to explain why she refused her MRI which was due to claustrophobia. Elderly people are more likely than younger patients to develop cognitive impairment as a result of taking medications. This reflects age- and disease-associated changes in brain neurochemistry and drug handling. The client felt very relaxed and at ease when her daughter came to visit. H. J was even more lively and at ease when her daughter came to visit. Family support is very important to the elderly. Without family visits or attenti on, the elderly may fall into a depression, or feel all alone. A big part of any elder care program is to give emotional support. Studies show that this can improve life expectancy by several years, and create a more positive and optimistic environment for the aged. H. J lives independently at home, but with the amount of assistance she requires in the hospital setting revealed that assistive devices such as a cane or walker may be necessary. After observation I also think it would be a excellent idea for her to move in with a family member or live in a assisted living facility if someone in the family is unable to provide care. Many elderly people will live without assistance until it is offered or they are hurt. Transitioning from independent living to assisted living can be difficult. It is important to remind the client that they are not being stripped of their independence. include educating her. Most of her issues, such as refusal of medication stem from not being educated on how medication and lifestyle changes can help with her overall health. Many elderly clients are set in there ways and are not educated about modern methods of treatment. None of the nurses really explained to her why he should get the MRI or take lovenox when she refused them. Sometimes a personal relationship needs to be built, so that a client can understand you genuinely have their best interest at hand. Physical therapy would also be a recommendation. Physical therapy is a non-medicinal method to increase strength, flexibility, range of motion, endurance and alleviate pain. Falling is such a big risk for the elderly, physical therapy puts patients at a lower risk for falls. People often are unsure about physical therapy because of the financial aspect, but some Medicare nd Medicaid plans cover the costs. I would also recommend another type of housing option. A continuing care retirement community or assisted living facility would be good options. They both offer nursing home care, however a assisted living community would go a little further and offer meals, social activities. Having elderly clients transition from a independent home setting to an assisted living facility can be difficult and also is sometimes associated with a negative image, but it is important to explain to the client how much safer it is. Their are many myths about age. People believe that with age decline is inevitable, but it is important to remember that regardless of age every elderly person should have the right and opportunity continue to live a safe, comfortable, and enjoyable life. And even with decline there are many options out there to make sure there is good quality of life available to patients that are suffering. References Aging changes in the heart and blood vessels: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia. (2012, September 4). U. S National Library of Medicine. Retrieved December 9, 2013, from http://www. nlm. nih. ov/medlineplus/ency/article/004006. tm Aging changes in the kidneys and bladder: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia. (2012, November 10). U. S National Library of Medicine. Retrieved December 9, 2013, from http:// www. nlm. nih. gov/medlineplus/ency/article/004010. htm Falls Among Older Adults: An Overview. (2013, September 20). Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Retrieved December 9, 2013, from http://www. cdc. gov/homea ndrecreationalsafety/ falls/adultfalls. html Feature, W. (n. d. ). Physical Therapy a Boon for Seniors. WebMD. Retrieved December 9, 2013, from http://www. webmd. om/healthy-aging/features/ hysical-therapy-benefits-for-seniors Miller, C. A. (20122012). Nursing for wellness in older adults (Sixth ed. ). Philadelphia: Wolters Kluwer/Lippincott Williams Wilkins. Moore, A. (1999, July 15). Result Filters. National Center for Biotechnology Information. Retrieved December 9, 2013, from http://www. ncbi. nlm. nih. gov/pubmed/10459729 The Importance of Family Support for Elderly Well?„ Being. (2011, April 27). San Diego Home Care. Retrieved December 9, 2013, from http:// homehealthcaresandiego. wordpress. com/2011104/27/the-importance-of-family- support-for-elderly-well-being/

Biography of Caroline Kennedy, American Author and Diplomat

Biography of Caroline Kennedy, American Author and Diplomat Caroline Bouvier Kennedy   (born November 27, 1957) is an American author, lawyer, and diplomat. She is the child of President John F. Kennedy and Jacqueline Bouvier. Caroline Kennedy served as the U.S. ambassador to Japan from 2013-2017. Early Years Caroline Kennedy was just three years old when her father took the Oath of Office and the family moved from their Georgetown home into the White House. She and her younger brother, John Jr., spent their afternoons in the outdoor play area, complete with a treehouse, that Jackie had designed for them. The children loved animals, and the Kennedy White House was home to puppies, ponies, and Carolines cat, Tom Kitten. Carolines happy childhood was interrupted by a series of tragedies that would change the course of her life. On August 7, 1963, her brother Patrick was born prematurely and died the next day. Just months later, on November 22nd, her father was assassinated in Dallas, Texas. Jackie and her two young children moved back to their Georgetown home two weeks later. Carolines uncle, Robert F. Kennedy, became a surrogate father to her in the years following her fathers death, and her world was rocked again when he, too, was assassinated in 1968. Education Carolines first classroom was in the White House. Jackie Kennedy organized the exclusive kindergarten herself, hiring two teachers to instruct Caroline and sixteen other children whose parents worked in the White House. The children wore red, white, and blue uniforms, and studied American history, mathematics, and French. In the summer of 1964, Jackie moved her family to Manhattan, where they would be out of the political spotlight. Caroline enrolled at the Convent of the Sacred Heart School on 91st St., the same school that Rose Kennedy, her grandmother, had attended as a girl. Caroline transferred to the Brearley School, an exclusive private girls school on the Upper East Side in the fall of 1969. In 1972, Caroline left New York to enroll at the elite Concord Academy, a progressive boarding school outside of Boston. These years away from home proved formative for Caroline, as could explore her own interests without interference from her mother or stepfather, Aristotle Onassis. She graduated in June 1975. Caroline Kennedy earned a bachelors degree in fine arts from Radcliffe College in 1980. During her summer breaks, she interned for her uncle, Senator Ted Kennedy. She also spent a summer working as a messenger and assistant for the New York Daily News. She once dreamed of becoming a photojournalist, but soon realized that being so publicly recognizable would make it impossible for her to surreptitiously photograph others. In 1988, Caroline earned a law degree from Columbia Law School. She passed the New York state bar examination the following year. Professional Life After earning her B.A., Caroline went to work in the Film and Television Department of the Metropolitan Museum of Art. She left the Met in 1985, when she enrolled in law school. In the 1980s, Caroline Kennedy became more involved in continuing her fathers legacy. She joined the board of directors for the John F. Kennedy Library, and is currently the president of the Kennedy Library Foundation. In 1989, she created the Profile in Courage Award, with the goal of honoring those who demonstrate political courage in a manner similar to the leaders profiled in her fathers book, Profiles in Courage. Caroline also serves as an adviser to the Harvard Institute of Politics, which was conceived as a living memorial to JFK. From 2002 to 2004, Kennedy served as CEO of the Office of Strategic Partnerships for the New York City Board of Education. She accepted a salary of just $1 for her work, which netted over $65 million in private funding for the school district. When Hillary Clinton accepted the nomination to become Secretary of State in 2009, Caroline Kennedy initially expressed interest in being appointed to represent New York in her place. The Senate seat was previously held by her late uncle Robert F. Kennedy. But a month later, Caroline Kennedy withdrew her name from consideration for personal reasons. In 2013, President Barack Obama nominated Caroline Kennedy to be U.S. Ambassador to Japan. Though some noted her lack of foreign policy experience, her appointment was approved unanimously by the U.S. Senate. In a 2015 interview for 60 Minutes, Kennedy noted that she was welcomed by the Japanese in part because of their memory of her father. People in Japan very much admire him. Its one of the ways that many people learned English. Almost every day somebody comes up to me and wants to quote the inaugural address. Publications Caroline Kennedy has co-authored two books on the law, and has also edited and published several other best-selling collections. In Our Defense: The Bill of Rights in Action (with Ellen Alderman, 1991)The Right to Privacy (with Ellen Alderman, 1995)The Best-Loved Poems of Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis (2001)Profiles in Courage for Our Time (2002)A Patriots Handbook (2003)A Family of Poems: My Favorite Poetry for Children (2005)A Family Christmas (2007)She Walks in Beauty: A Womans Journey Through Poems (2011) Personal Life In 1978, while Caroline was still at Radcliffe, her mother, Jackie, invited a co-worker to dinner to meet Caroline. Tom Carney was a Yale graduate from a wealthy Irish Catholic family. He and Caroline were immediately drawn to one another and soon seemed destined for marriage, but after two years of living in the Kennedy spotlight, Carney ended the relationship. While working at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, Caroline met exhibit designer Edwin Schlossberg, and the two soon began dating. They married on July 19, 1986, at the Church of Our Lady of Victory on Cape Cod. Carolines brother John served as best man, and her cousin Maria Shriver, herself newly married to Arnold Schwarzenegger, was her matron of honor. Ted Kennedy walked Caroline down the aisle. Caroline and her husband Edwin have three children: Rose Kennedy Schlossberg, born June 25, 1988; Tatiana Celia Kennedy Schlossberg, born May 5, 1990; and John Bouvier Kennedy Schlossberg, born January 19, 1993. More Kennedy Tragedies Caroline Kennedy suffered more devastating losses as an adult. David Anthony Kennedy, Robert F. Kennedys son and Carolines first cousin, died of a drug overdose in a Palm Beach hotel room in 1984. In 1997, Michael Kennedy, another of Bobbys sons, died in a skiing accident in Colorado. The losses hit closer to home, too. Jacqueline Bouvier Kennedy Onassis died of cancer on May 19, 1994. The loss of their mother brought Caroline and her brother John Jr. even closer together than before. Just eight months later, they lost their grandmother Rose, the matriarch of the Kennedy clan, to pneumonia at the age of 104. On July 16, 1999,  John Jr., his wife Carolyn Bessette Kennedy, and his sister-in-law Lauren Bessette all boarded Johns small plane to fly to a family wedding on Marthas Vineyard. All three were killed when the plane crashed into the sea en route. Carolyn became the lone survivor of JFKs family.   Ten years later, on August 25, 2009, Carolyns uncle Ted succumbed to brain cancer. Famous Quotes Growing up in politics I know that women decide all elections because we do all the work. People dont always realize that my parents shared a sense of intellectual curiosity and a love of reading and of history. Poetry is really a way of sharing feelings and ideas. To the extent that we are all educated and informed, we will be more equipped to deal with the gut issues that tend to divide us. I feel that my fathers greatest legacy was the people he inspired to get involved in public service and their communities, to join the Peace Corps, to go into space. And really that generation transformed this country in civil rights, social justice, the economy and everything. Sources: Andersen, Christopher P.  Sweet Caroline: Last Child of Camelot. Wheeler Pub., 2004. Heymann, C. David.  American Legacy: the Story of John and Caroline Kennedy. Simon Schuster, 2008. â€Å"Kennedy, Caroline B.†Ã‚  U.S. Department of State, U.S. Department of State, 2009-2017.state.gov/r/pa/ei/biog/217581.htm. ODonnell, Norah. â€Å"Kennedy name still resonates in Japan.†Ã‚  CBS News, CBS Interactive, 13 Apr. 2015, www.cbsnews.com/news/ambassador-to-japan-caroline-kennedy-60-minutes/. Zengerle;, Patricia. â€Å"U.S. Senate confirms Kennedy as ambassador to Japan.†Ã‚  Reuters, Thomson Reuters, 16 Oct. 2013, www.reuters.com/article/us-usa-japan-kennedy/u-s-senate-confirms-kennedy-as-ambassador-to-japan-idUSBRE99G03W20131017.

An Event in My Life that has One Cause with Three Results Essay

An Event in My Life that has One Cause with Three Results - Essay Example According to the paper, as the author declares "shortly after joining my first grade in school, my parents started to experience challenges in their marriage and after a period of not more than ten months, they filled a divorce case and were separated. This event was quite traumatizing to me and especially because I had never lived separately from my parents and had never imagined having parents who could not communicate effectively or even share a common ground on issues concerning my life. This event affected me psychologically and endured stress for a long time before being able to manage the condition. From this event, three types of stress each with particular consequences can be identified in relation to what happened to me afterwards. To begin with, an acute stress can be drawn from the immediate responses that could be identified in my routine schedule. Acute stress is the most common form of stress that is experienced by majority of people. This type of stress is highly mana geable and does not cause a lot of damage to a person if addressed soon. In the case of troubled parenthood from my parents, I started experiencing pressure to coordinate many issues in my life. Firstly, I began to worry about the fate of my parents’ relationship after I noted that they were quarrelling frequently. In addition, it was a little challenging to have proper concentration in classroom especially in the morning lectures because of bad emotional experiences at home. Although after a short while I could concentrate in classroom work, the morning quarrels by my parents at home made me to be more worried and hence poor concentration at school.The second result of the event can generally be classified as chronic stress. Normally, the person involved gives up in search of a solution and can continuously be worn out by the stress. Ideally, short lived stress is beneficial to humans because it enables their body to respond to issues that require a lot of energy and immedia te response. "

Beyond Belief

In Deborah Lipstadts’ book Denying the Holocaust, author reveals the rising doubt about the different revelation during the war (specifically Second World War ). The author commences a deterring commission not just by exposing but also by introducing who and what are those that renounce such Holocaust. Admitting that even the tiniest shade of skepticism on the truth about the Holocaust are influenced by some powerful entities are indeed unacceptable. The occurrence of these Holocausts are considered and recognized by some.To some extent, the book is not seeking for an absolution as Lipstadt had said. The academe, the media and the public are gravely vulnerable to lies, and that is why the book serves as a caution to those who want to get into these entities. The book on Holocaust denial was written not just to provide a kind of authority for those who want to cover the truth behind these Holocausts but also to learn more about the skepticism which most people don’t mind asking about. Specifically, the author wrote about the growing Holocaust advocates and its corresponding effects on certain historical events.Up until now though the Second World War is over, the war on the truth behind the Holocausts is just beginnng. The author stresses more about the endeavors to refute the Nazi extermination of the Jews which is one of the crucial messages of it that is being disregarded. The authors’ purpose is to speak to the public through presentation as coherent a manner as probable the history of the beginning of the arguments of the deniers and the argument themselves. Lipstadt began this by introducing the start of the past traditions of revisionists in the 1900s.Then slowly into the current tussle, citing the varying â€Å"segments† of the rebuffed Holocausts plus the truth that the incident that has escalated in extent and strength ever since 1970s. Somehow, whenever an common folk who reads the book will be educated of the true type of these rebuffed Holocausts and be guarded for several indications of the impairing effect wherever. The crucial part of the book entirety is that it arranges a plain clear and familiar guide of how far the deniers have gone on attempting to renounce or clarify away the Nazis mayhem during Second World War.Nazis used preposterous propagandas that up until now, though the Germans had lost in the war, Nazism continues. The Jews were blamed in actual fact for all what the Nazis have done. What the Germans did, which â€Å"any country† would do for its own protection, were provoked by the Jews. Certain accusations were tossed to the Jews, like using the mass media as its main tool in exercising its authority and the media composed mostly of Jews will work together as brothers. That the Jews wanted to have the power over the world’s funds by using the Germany for Israel.Even the Germans themselves find these ideas absurd but still they used it in the war and find beneficial f or them during the war. In order to even out the Nazis violence with every different abuse done, the allied nations were directed by these propagandas. The deniers attempted to reveal that even though Nazis perpetrate crimes opposed to the Jews, they should not be singled out in perpetrating such crimes and for that reason they’re not the ones’ who must be blamed for these crimes ad they do not deserve special punishment at all.There were attempts to minimize the total of Jews killed to a much smaller than six million. Even though the facts are undeniable and the proofs are convincing of the deaths of millions of people in their account and in addition to the admission of Nazis on trial at Nuremberg, Holocaust deniers always find time rebuffing these actuality. The author herself is having hard time pointing out a lot of times all over the book the ambiguity of their assertions; it seems that the main peculiarity of these deniers constantly paying no attention to these presented facts.There are esteemed scholars that are now joining in the crew of defending those who were supposed to be interrogated. The author herself is alarmed by these scholars, because they’re not racist and not even a German in blood and may account for more advocates of Holocausts. The major composition of the book is mainly monographic which share out a great amount of information in a very simple and specific way so that even undergraduate students will easily understand the contents.Though monograph means a singe subject, the book itself does not only showcase a single subject but even broader ones. An absolute definition of the book is somewhat as well restrictive. The authors’ reliability for undertaking the issue is well-establish. Certain facts are supported with historical evidences. It gives more understanding beyond someone’s perspective of the reality of what once has affected the word we are living. . References Gingerich, Charity. 2006. Mon thly Column. Emory University. Leff, Laurel. 2005. The journal of American History. Cambridge University Pres.

The Creation of a Trust Which Depicts the Formalities That Are Essay

The Creation of a Trust Which Depicts the Formalities That Are Required In the Dissemination of the Deceased Properties to the Beneficiaries - Essay Example In the paper, John drafts a will and appoints Tessa and Vincent as the trustees of his widow Susan and the two children.   On the death of John Susan accuses the trustees of breaching their mandates, therefore the following advice is going to be very important to determine whether Susan will be able to win the case and granted trust of the properties. It is notable will contained no express power; it simply stated that Tessa and Vincent were to hold the said properties until the opportune moment for them to grant them to the right beneficiaries who are the family. According to Target Holdings Ltd v Redferns, the right of the beneficiary is to have the trust administered in the best way it was intended in conformity with the general law and the trust instruments. Thus, according to law, the beneficiary will always be granted access to the will or deed and the accounts which are linked to the trust. Proper justifications are to be given to any shortcomings which may be pinpointed; ho wever, in this case, it is apparent that the trustees never informed the beneficiaries on the investments they had made. Thus, there is a breach of contract which makes them liable for the loss and any abnormalities which come about. It is evident that the trustees misapplied the money in their hands for their personal use. None of the beneficiaries is really aware of what is going on until when they make the claim and want to have the money for their own use. According to the case of Wallersteiner v Moir, the trustees are liable for any unnecessary delays and circumstantial impacts they may cause the beneficiaries. Susan is thus in the right position to sue the trustees and claim their authority inappropriate in managing the properties and accounts. There is a falsification impression which is created in the whole process. It is sufficient that the trustee is liable to a want of ordinary prudence. By the trustees delegating their duties to the Best Finance Company, they defied thei r obligations entirely. Besides that, there is no clear motive for them to surrender managerial roles of the will to this company which has questionable characters and performances.

MATH Math Problem Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Math Problem Example List multiple items in descending order of amount.) Quirk Company purchased office supplies costing 6,000 and debited Office Supplies for the full amount. At the end of the accounting period, a physical count of office supplies revealed 2,400 still on hand. The appropriate adjusting journal entry to be made at the end of the period would be Baden Realty Company received a check for 18,000 on July 1 which represents a 6 month advance payment of rent on a building it rents to a client. Unearned Rent was credited for the full 18,000. Financial statements will be prepared on July 31. Baden Realty should make the following adjusting entry on July 31: On July 1, Dexter Shoe Store paid 8,000 to Ace Realty for 4 months rent beginning July 1. Prepaid Rent was debited for the full amount. If financial statements are prepared on July 31, the adjusting entry to be made by Dexter Shoe Store is Southeastern Louisiana University sold season tickets for the 2008 football season for 160,000. A total of 8 games will be played during September, October and November. In September, two games were played. In October, three games were played. The balance in Unearned Revenue at October 31 is Southeastern Louisiana University sold season tickets for the 2008 football season for 160,000. A total of 8 games will be played during September, October and November.

Acute Myeloid Leukemia: Causes and Treatment Strategies

Acute Myeloid Leukemia: Causes and Treatment Strategies Pathology Acute myeloid leukemia is a disease that primarily afflicts adults. The likelihood of being diagnosed with AML increases with age; the median age of diagnosis is 65 with very few cases reported in those under the age of 40 [4]. Several risk factors have been associated with increased incidence of AML including: Li-Fraumeni disease, Klinefelter’s syndrome, radiation exposure, chemotherapy, and chemicals (benzene, herbicides, etc) (See supplementary figure S.1) [4]. However, the initiation of AML is a multistep process and can be the result many different genetic aberrations [4][5]. Therefore, the aforementioned risk factors do not account for all cases of AML [4]. Acute myelogenous leukemia is the result of oncogene-driven accumulation of immature myeloblasts within the bone marrow [5]. Myeloblasts are progenitor cells, which will ultimately give rise to neutrophils, basophils, eosinophils, and mast cells (collectively known as the granulocytes) [6]. In AML, the genes that govern proper differentiation of myeloblasts into one of the aforementioned cell types are mutated. This prevents differentiation and leads to a buildup of myeloblasts within the marrow [5]. The clinical consequences of myeloblast buildup are marrow failure leading to low white-blood cell count, low red-blood cell count, and insufficient levels of clotting factors [5]. Therefore, clinical symptoms are depressed immune function, anemia, and continued hemorrhaging. The molecular pathogenesis of AML (and all cancers) begins with the acquisition of genetic abnormalities. There are two models that describe how these acquisitions arise. The conventional model of cancer cell initiation proposes that the cell gradually acquires certain mutations to genes involved in mitotic signaling (KRAS or APC) and tumor suppression (P53), thereby allowing the cell to divide uncontrollably [7]. However, Recent work by Stephens et al. [8] showed that multiple mutations can be induced in a â€Å"one off† event by the random shattering and re-ligation of one or more chromosomes [8]. They termed this event â€Å"Chromothripsis† [8]. Chromothripsis results in massive translocations and changes to copy number state, but is distinct from the conventional model of cancer cell initiation by the presence of large-scale inter-chromosomal rearrangements [8]. Thus, the chromothripsis model differs from its conventional counterpart in the time taken for the cell t o reach malignancy and the scale to which the genome is altered. Chromothripsis is observed in a portion of AML cases; Rausch et al. [9] found nearly half of the AML cohort showed chromosomal rearrangements consistent with chromothripsis [9]. This shows that, accumulation of the necessary mutations that drive AML may occur by more than one mechanism. By either mechanism of AML initiation, myeloblasts lose the ability to differentiate. The molecular pathogenesis commonly shows two frequent chromosomal aberrations – a translocation between chromosome 8 and 21, and an inversion of chromosome 16 [5]. These changes affect two genes crucial for myeloid differentiation (CBF1ÃŽ ± and CBF1ÃŽ ²) [5]. The effect of the inversion and translocation results in a gene chimera, which is translated into a protein that interferes with proper CBF1ÃŽ ± and CBF1ÃŽ ² function [5]. However, these specific chromosomal alterations are not observed in every case of AML. DNA-damage inducing agents like radiation or certain chemicals, may cause aberrations to chromosome 5 and 7, which has also been implicated in the initiation of AML [5]. This shows that there are several factors involved in proper myeloid differentiation and that interference to any of them may result in AML. Visual differentiation of healthy myeloblasts from leukemic myeloblasts can be challenging. Myeloblasts should contain 3 5 nucleoli, which are full of uncondensed chromatin [6]. Some leukemic myeloblasts may show more than 3 – 5 nucleoli [5]. Also, they do not normally contain granules, however, leukemic myeloblasts may have granules, which can serve as a potential marker for diagnosis [5]. It is important to stress that these morphological changes may not appear in all cases of AML. Therefore, prognosis is confirmed by the presence of greater than 20% myeloblasts in bone marrow biopsy [5]. Treatment There are different avenues for treating AML. Treatment may include supportive care (in advanced cases), chemotherapy, and stem cell transplantation. However, chemotherapy is the most common and effective method of treatment [3]. When medicinal chemists began isolating antibiotics produced from bacteria in search of potential leads for drug design, Aurelio Di Marco and his research team discovered a new species of bacteria, Streptomyces peucetius, within a soil sample they obtained from an area near Bari, Italy [10][11]. This new strain of bacteria was produced a compound that was efficacious as a chemotherapeutic agent against many tumors; the compound was later named daunorubicin and is now considered a key intervention administered to patients with AML [12]. Daunorubicin and doxorubicin are part of the class of antibiotics collectively known as the anthracyclines. Anthracyclines can cause cytotoxicity by different mechanisms depending on their intracellular concentration. As reviewed by Gerwitz [13], in vitro studies show there are several possible mechanisms for the anti-tumor effects of these agents including: Inhibition of DNA synthesis, free radical generation leading to either DNA damage or lipid peroxidation, inhibition of DNA topoisomerase resulting in helix super-coiling, DNA alkylation, and DNA cross-linking [13]. The induction of apoptosis was also mentioned as a mechanism of cytotoxicity, but it is likely that apoptosis is a byproduct of the aforementioned cellular stresses, rather than a direct consequence of anthracycline exposure [13]. It is important to note that these mechanisms were observed in vitro, and that in vitro conditions allow for exposure at concentrations that may greatly exceed in vivo concentrations [13]. Pharmacodynamics Although, daunorubicin and doxorubicin are thought to cause cytotoxicity by several different processes, their ability to bind to DNA and prevent DNA replication or transcription is considered to be the primary means of anti-tumor activity in vivo [13][14]. This is because replication is inhibited at anthracycline concentrations that can be reached in vivo following a standard dosage [13]. The two anthracyclines appear to intercalate preferentially to regions of DNA with select base-pair composition, specifically, regions with CGATCG sequences [14]. Rabanni, Finn, Ausio [15] suggest that intercalation stabilizes hydrogen bonds between the two strands of DNA [15]. This means that the energy required to separate the strands is higher, and cannot be achieved by DNA helicase [15]. Thus, strand separation is inhibited, preventing DNA replication and tumor cell proliferation. For both compounds, the chromophore portion (DCBA in fig. 1) of the molecule intercalates between complementary guanine-cytosine (GC)  base pairs on each side of the DNA double-helix (fig. 2). The compound is stabilized in this position by hydrogen bonds on either side of the molecule. The â€Å"D† side of the molecule is held in position with aid from a solvent atom (believed to be ionic sodium), which forms hydrogen bonds between oxygen 4 and 5 to  nitrogen 7 of guanine12 (fig. 2) [14]. The â€Å"A† side of either drug is coordinated by hydrogen bonds from oxygen 9 to nitrogens 2 and 3 of guanine 2 (fig. 2) [14]. As previously mentioned, all of these interactions occur between both daunorubicin/doxorubicin and C/G DNA sequences. However, the added hydroxyl group on C14 of doxorubicin creates an extra association. The hydroxyl appears to shift solvent molecules such that indirect interactions between itself and the phosphate backbone of DNA are created (fig. 3) [14 ]. This added interaction might explain the slightly higher in vitro affinity constant between doxorubicin-DNA (Ka = 1.610-5) as compared to daunorubicin-DNA (Ka = 1.210-5) (in vitro Ka determination performed at 37 °C in 10% fetal calf serum) [17]. Doxorubicin is more potent than daunorubicin. In the case of anthracycline induced inhibition of DNA strand separation, the potency and efficacy are directly related. The increased binding affinity of doxorubicin means that it will associate with DNA and prevent DNA separation at a lower concentration (See supplementary fig.S2). Therefore, pharmacological factors aside, it will be more potent and will prevent tumor cell proliferation at lower concentrations. Synthesis Doxorubicin is a semi-synthetic analog of daunorubicin. The daunorubicin producing bacteria, Streptomyces peucetius, was mutated to the doxorubicin producing subspecies Streptomyces peucetius subsp. caesius [18]. This mutated strain was found to carry an oxidizing cytochrome P450 isoform capable of hydroxylating the C14 of daunorubicin [19]. The gene that encodes this P450 is called doxA [19]. Although, this gene is crucial for doxorubicin production, its presence does not guarantee collectable quantities of doxorubicin (See supplemental figure S.2) [20]. Enzymes, such as dnrH and dnrX, may further oxidize or reduce the newly formed doxorubicin into other metabolites that do not have antitumor abilities [18]. Therefore, in order to make doxorubicin production sustainable, the down regulation of such genes is required to increase doxorubicin yield. Pharmacokinetics Despite their similar molecular structure, daunorubicin and doxorubicin have distinct pharmacokinetic properties. This section will begin by contrasting the differences in elimination, metabolism, and distribution. Bioavailability will not be contrasted because both of these agents are administered intravenously. The section will then conclude with a description of tissue distribution, intracellular distribution, and toxicity. Administration As already mentioned, both anthracyclines are administered via intravenous injection [21][22]. They should not be injected subcutaneously or intramuscularly due to the significant risk of tissue death at and near the injection site [23]. The exact dosage schedule for both daunorubicin and doxorubicin is dependent on several different factors including: age, health, pre-exisiting heart conditions, and renal functioning, therefore exact dosages vary among different patient populations. In terms of daunorubicin, dosage ranges between 30 and 45 mg/m2, whereas doxorubicin dosages range between 40 and 75 mg/m2 during the initial course of treatment [24][25]. Elimination Both compounds are eliminated from the plasma via urinary and biliary mechanisms [23]. However, a much greater proportion of a daunorubicin dose is excreted through the kidneys (14-23%) as compared to doxorubicin (5%), while a larger proportion of doxorubicin was reported to be excreted through the bowels (50%) compared to daunorubicin (40%) [23]. Daunorubicin and doxorubicin are considered to be high clearance drugs. They have a similar clearance value of 1-2 L/Kgà ¯Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ã… ¸h [26]. The elimination of either drug, along with their metabolites, follows a triphasic decline in plasma concentration [23]. After a 60ml/m2 infusion of daunorubicin/doxorubicin, the plasma concentration/time graph shows that both drugs are eliminated with a similar rate (fig.3) [26]. However the Medsafe ® [23] datasheet for daunorubicin/doxorubicin reports that the plasma T1/2 for the first phase averages 45min daunorubicin and 12min doxorubicin, while the second phase is 18.5hrs daunorubicin, 3.3hrs doxorubicin. Metabolism The primary metabolites of daunorubicin and doxorubicin are daunorubicinol and doxorubicinol respectively. Because of their similar structures, the metabolism of either compound occurs in a likewise fashion. The enzyme most implicated in metabolism is NADPH (nicotinamide-adenine-dinucleotide-phosphate) dependent cytochrome P450 reductase [27]. This enzyme reduces the ketone at C13 to an alcohol to produce daunorubicinol and doxorubicinol [28]. These two products are believed to retain their cytotoxicity and are cleared from the plasma at a similar rate [28][29]. Another common metabolite for either compound is generated via reduction of the glycosidic bond by gycosidases. Glycosidic reduction results in removal of the amino-sugar that is bonded to C7 [28]. This reaction eliminates the anti-tumor capabilities of either compound [28]. Following removal of the amino-sugar, the remaining aglycone is demethylated and then undergoes phase II metabolism (sulfonation or glucuronidation) [23]. Phase II metabolism by sulfonation or glucuronidation increases plasma clearance and enhances elimination. Two other metabolites are listed in literature, 7-deoxydoxorubincolone and 7-deoxydoxorubinone, however the enzyme or enzymes that facilitate these reactions were not noted [30]. Two other enzymes metabolize both daunorubicin and doxorubicin under aerobic conditions, xanthine dehydrogenase and xanthine oxidase, and produce reduced semiquinones and oxygen radicals [31]. These radicals could provide added efficacy to the drug therapy. It has been suggested that advanced stage cancer cells exhibit high oxidative stress and that it may be advantageous to exploit this finding to preferentially and specifically attack and destroy them [30]. Under anaerobic conditions, xanthine dehydrogenase metabolizes doxorubicin to 7- deoxydoxorubicin aglycone, which has been found to be efficacious in the reduction of the drug’s toxicity [31]. Volume of Distribution Daunorubicin and doxorubicin localize in the tissues. The Vd for daunorubicin is 39.2 L/Kg, while the Vd for doxorubicin is 24.6 L/Kg [26]. This indicates that both compounds have high tissue distribution [26]. Although the addition of a hydroxyl group at C14 markedly reduces doxorubicin’s ability to distribute into the tissues (relative to daunorubicin), doxorubicin remains within leukemic cells for a longer duration than daunorubicin (fig. 5) [26]. Upon administration, daunorubicin accumulates within leukemic cells more rapidly than does doxorubicin (fig 5). This is likely because of the increased polar surface area brought on by the added hydroxyl group of doxorubicin, which hinders its ability to cross membranes. However, the added hydroxyl group provides increased binding affinity to DNA [17]. Therefore, it will not leave the cell as rapidly because it will remain bound to DNA [26]. Toxicity The clinical use of doxorubicin and daunorubicin may be limited by their similar inherent toxicity. It goes without saying that chemotherapeutics should not be administered to women who are lactating or pregnant due to significant health complications that can be incurred by the infant or fetus, respectively, therefore these drugs should not be considered in these populations [33]. The use of these agents in a long-term manner is cautioned due to their ability to cause cardiotoxicity [29]. Under aerobic conditions, the semiquinone radical that may be produced during metabolism undergoes redox cycling [27]. Accumulation of reaction oxygen species soon occurs and can cause cytotoxicity [27]. This is believed to account for tissue death in cardiac cells, and is one of the major implications of using the anthracycline class of anti-tumors agents [27]. The cardiotoxicity itself includes effects such as functional damage to mitochrondrial DNA, interference of cytochrome c oxidase, and dysf unctional lipid peroxidation [13]. Personalised Cancer Treatment: Known Markers in Treatment Personalised Cancer Treatment: Known Markers in Treatment Personalised cancer treatment – known markers and what they mean for treatment Contents (Jump to) Known markers and what they mean for treatment Overview Drug target markers Diagnostic and prognostic markers Meta description Keywords Copyscape Known markers and what they mean for treatment Overview Personalised, targeted and hormonal treatments all depend on genetic mutations that can be identified in cancer cells to be effective. These mutations are sometimes referred to as â€Å"markers†. The markers can manifest through over-expression, lack of expression or mutated expression of specific proteins. Some markers can be targeted using specific treatments whereas some can act as measurements for disease diagnosis, prognosis and treatment response. Drug target markers The genes listed below have all been associated in cancer, the majority of which can also be treated. (*) – Targetable genes and proteins that can also be measured to determine treatment response, cancer diagnosis and prognosis. Diagnostic and prognostic markers The following markers are all related to diagnosis, prognosis and treatment progress. Meta description Cancer markers can help with the diagnosis and treatment of cancer and can give access to targeted therapies. Keywords Cancer markers, genetic markers, diagnostic markers, drug target markers Copyscape Checked Sep 2014 CIGNPOST: KNOWN MARKERS AND WHAT THEY MEAN FOR TREATMENT © Cignpost Ltd 2014PAGE | 1 [EB1]If these are genes not proteins then they should be in italics Psychology Christianity: Five Views | Eric L. Johnson Psychology Christianity: Five Views | Eric L. Johnson Review of â€Å"Psychology Christianity- Five Views† by Eric L. Johnson. Title: Psychology Christianity Five Views Author: Eric L. Johnson Publisher: InterVarsity Press. (U.S.A.) 2000 Price:  £14.37 ISBN: 978-0-8308-2848-7 Introduction: In this book review, I intend to cover the following outcomes: evaluate psychological theories against biblical teaching, discuss the contribution psychology has to make to Christian counselling, assess the compatibility of psychology (research and psychotherapy) with Christian counselling and critical examination of psychological theories. About the editor Eric L. Johnson is a teacher, editor, author and director. He attended Toronto Baptist Seminary and proceeded on to Calvin College before going on to Michigan State University where he bagged his PhD. He is an academic psychologist and initially lectured for nine years at the Northwestern College in Minnesota teaching Christian worldview, psychology and theology. Johnson wrote â€Å"Foundations for Soul Care: A Christian Psychology Proposal† and contributed several articles for the Baker Encylopedia of Psychology and Counselling. He argued for the necessity of theology in counselling and psychological research. He is with the Journal of Psychology and Theology as an associate editor. Johnson edited a special issue of the Journal of Psychology and Christianity, entitled â€Å"Psychology within the Christian Tradition† in 1998. He made contributions in two books: â€Å"Christianity and Psychology: Four Views† and â€Å"God under Fire: Modern Scholarship Reinvents God† in addition to editing this book that I am reviewing. Johnson is currently the director of the Society for Christian Psychology and the Lawrence and Charlotte Hoover Professor of Pastoral Care at The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary in Louisville, Kentucky. About the Book Psychology and Christianity: Five Views, is divided into seven chapters and has three hundred and nineteen pages. It is a review and expansion of the first edition titled â€Å"Psychology and Christianity: Four Views†. This book essentially lends to give a precise understanding of human nature and this is an issue that has refused to go. In page 104, we see that Adams argues that the Bible is sufficient to understand human nature and there is nothing psychology can offer but there are opposing arguments. Freud cited in Chapman (2007:41) argues that religion is an illusion. However, Crabb cited in Lutzer (1998:72) argues that we can spoil the Egyptians; take the best of both Christianity and Psychology for our use and become more effective as long as they are not in conflict with the Bible because the Bible will always be superior. The Wesleyan Quadrilateral advocates that four factors (Scripture, Tradition, Experience and Reason) must be considered when reaching decisions. In view of all this on-going debates, Johnson tries in this book to advance the argument for a relationship between Psychology and Christianity, and address the issue of helping Christians to understand and grasp the nettle of psychology. In this edition, there is a fifth view which has been added to the first edition of four views. This fifth view is contributed by John H. Coe and Todd W. Hall and it is titled â€Å"A Transformational Psychology view†. The other four view contributors were still involved in this edition but with revised contributions. The authors put forward five different views of how Psychology and Christianity can be integrated. They are David G. Myers who deals with the levels of explanation; an integration view by Stanton L. Jones, biblical counselling view by David A. Powlison and Christian psychology by Robert C. Roberts co-authored by P.J. Watson. Johnson wrote the opening chapter discussing the history of Christian psychology and also the closing chapter which talks about gaining understanding through the five views put forward by the various authors. The authors gave very good account of themselves in their respective views. Every chapter is concise, well laid out and the thought flow pattern is quite consistent and credible. Content of the book Johnson sandwiches the five views in between two chapters that he authored. He started in this first chapter by looking at the history of Christians in Psychology. In this chapter, Johnson looks at a generic background of psychology but with special reference to how psychology is viewed today. He argues (page 10) that science is a gift from God and that the scientific revolution was initiated by mostly Christians. Some Christians have unreservedly incorporated modern psychology while others like (Bobgan Bobgan 1987) have out-rightly rejected it and called it â€Å"psychoheresy†. Johnson explained in this chapter about the neutrality of this book and that it is rather a picture of the views of the majority of Christians. The second chapter was by David Myers and it deal with levels of explanation. This chapter delves into the subject of human characteristics. This view recognises that Christian theology and Psychology are different and should be treated so but that both should combine well. Myers argues (page 49) that both vary especially in the methodology of research and so each should free to explore as they deem fit. He further argues (page 72-74) that scientific data has enabled him along with some other Christian thinkers to shift from their view of seeing homosexuality as a sin, to understanding the biological explanation of prenatal influences to brain differences especially also considering the fact that the Bible did not have much coverage on the subject matter. Stanton Jones wrote the third chapter which is on the integration view. He shares the same view as Myers; that both Christian theology and Psychology have something to contribute to each other and consequently should be integrated; an aspect that is contrary to Myers view that they should be separated. Christianity is God’s word and psychology is God’s work. Jones argues (page 101) that God’s sovereignty prevails over every facet of human life and that Christian psychologists should benefit from that. However, Jones also shares a common view as Myers with regards to the fact that the Bible does not address some issues adequately (page 101). Jones shares a personal testimony of the tension points that he struggled with in-between Christianity and Psychology. (103-104). Jones became more confused as he desired to be faithful to the Bible, yet, he could not argue with the result that he was actually learning a lot about human nature in Psychology and so through excl usion, he found himself blending both Psychology and Christian theology. The fourth chapter deals with Christian psychology and was co-authored by Roberts and Watson. They argue that understanding God which is revelation (general and special) should be the starting point for the development of psychological theories. These authors (page 155-156) argue that Christian sermons (using Jesus’ sermon on the Mount as an example) are aimed at helping people to live well; dealing with character and transformation of persons and that psychology also deals with how to live, and changing a person’s character with the aim of living well. They identify terminology as the only difference between both. They argue (page 157) that sermon conceptualises psychology. John Coe and Todd Hall co-authored this fifth chapter which deals with the transformational view. They set out, not to develop or defend a model but to shed light on their argument, (page 200) that psychology and Christianity are closely related and that psychology is only an expression of faith and love. This view is the view that has just been added in this edition making it five views. They argue (page 200) in favour of the process and methodology of psychology as a process to new ways of transforming people. This approach looks into the psychologist’s transformation (emotional and spiritual). David Powlison authored the sixth chapter which discusses a Biblical counselling view. He started with a very bold statement â€Å"Christian faith is a psychology†. Also that â€Å"Christian ministry is a therapy† These statements summarises his view. Powlison argues (page 245) that the Scriptures talks about thoughts and intentions of the heart. He further argues that God through the scriptures reveals how human beings should achieve their potentials and a clear change process of attaining such too. Powlison assumes a very new approach in his view; the approach is to delve into the meanings of the word â€Å"psychology† in the very context in which it is used. He argues (page 248) that obviously the meaning is relative. In a bid to drive home his argument, he develops sub themes; Psych 1 – 6. Psych 1 looks at how you work,; Psych 2 looks at the detailed knowledge of human functioning; Pych 3 looks at the competing theories of human personality; Psych 4 de als with the practical application to psychotherapy; Psych 5 looks at a system of professional and institutional arrangements and Psych 6 deals with a mass of ethos. Powlison was really keen on ensuring that his readers have a very clear understanding of his view and goes a step further with a case study as he argues (page 262) that looking at cases is the best way to understand psychological views including biblical counselling. Eric Johnson authored the seventh and closing chapter where he made reference to similar books that has multiple views on the same subject. According to him, this book helps to highlight the point that a group of people, and specifically Christians in this instance, have the same belief but varied perspectives even within the same belief. Johnson (page 293) uses Proverbs 12:15 to affirm that a wise man will be humbled, by that awareness of what he does not know. No one has absolute knowledge except God. He argues that because we are finite creatures, we are limited in terms of views but God is the omniscient observer. He further argues that the more views we are open to, the better our understanding will be, and he encourages his readers especially Christians to dialogue, engage, critique and integrate the strengths of these views as it will enhance their understanding and scope in other to develop their own â€Å"postformal synthesis† (page 309). There is something I found very fascinating about this book. I found out that each chapter have contributing responses from the perspective of the other authors highlighting the strengths and weaknesses of the particular view in light of their own view. My thought. I think that the writing style is easy to read and understand. The chapters are logically laid out and concise and the literary genre is prose. The subsequent contributions from diverse perspectives to each chapter are not common and made it all seem like a conference, answering most questions that readers could have raised. I am the pastor of my local church; I encourage members through prayers, teaching, preaching and pastoral care, based on the Scriptures. I have found myself at crossroads in some contemporary issues which are similar to the observations of Myers and Jones, where they have found the Bible silent on some issues and inadequately addressing some other issues. This is one of my reasons of studying Counselling, and a book like this has opened me up to differing views highlighting both strengths and weaknesses of those views. This review has been an eye opener for me. CONCLUSION In conclusion, I consider the book well-structured as Johnson sets the stage with the historical background and after taking the five views, he borders the book at the end, encouraging scholars to critically and constructively engage to progress the work. Finally, I observe that Johnson claims (page 10) that the book is neutral and that the views represent the collective views of a majority of Christians. This is a very good claim but it would have been very good if he had gone a step further to substantiate his claim with data. However, overall, I consider this book to be of immense value to any Christian psychologists irrespective of their chosen model; it will open them up to differing views even within the Christian community of Psychotherapists. . I identify with Stanton Jones who authored the Integrative view and I will recommend this book to anyone who is seeking a clearer understanding of the integrative model of counselling. References: Chapman, C.N. (2007). Freud, Religion, and Anxiety. USA: Lulu.com. Page 41 Lutzer, E.W. (1998) Pastor to Pastor: Tackling the Problems of Ministry. USA: Kregel Publications. Page 72 Peter Emordi Psychology of Christian Counselling COU2001 1

Beyond Belief

In Deborah Lipstadts’ book Denying the Holocaust, author reveals the rising doubt about the different revelation during the war (specifically Second World War ). The author commences a deterring commission not just by exposing but also by introducing who and what are those that renounce such Holocaust. Admitting that even the tiniest shade of skepticism on the truth about the Holocaust are influenced by some powerful entities are indeed unacceptable. The occurrence of these Holocausts are considered and recognized by some.To some extent, the book is not seeking for an absolution as Lipstadt had said. The academe, the media and the public are gravely vulnerable to lies, and that is why the book serves as a caution to those who want to get into these entities. The book on Holocaust denial was written not just to provide a kind of authority for those who want to cover the truth behind these Holocausts but also to learn more about the skepticism which most people don’t mind asking about. Specifically, the author wrote about the growing Holocaust advocates and its corresponding effects on certain historical events.Up until now though the Second World War is over, the war on the truth behind the Holocausts is just beginnng. The author stresses more about the endeavors to refute the Nazi extermination of the Jews which is one of the crucial messages of it that is being disregarded. The authors’ purpose is to speak to the public through presentation as coherent a manner as probable the history of the beginning of the arguments of the deniers and the argument themselves. Lipstadt began this by introducing the start of the past traditions of revisionists in the 1900s.Then slowly into the current tussle, citing the varying â€Å"segments† of the rebuffed Holocausts plus the truth that the incident that has escalated in extent and strength ever since 1970s. Somehow, whenever an common folk who reads the book will be educated of the true type of these rebuffed Holocausts and be guarded for several indications of the impairing effect wherever. The crucial part of the book entirety is that it arranges a plain clear and familiar guide of how far the deniers have gone on attempting to renounce or clarify away the Nazis mayhem during Second World War.Nazis used preposterous propagandas that up until now, though the Germans had lost in the war, Nazism continues. The Jews were blamed in actual fact for all what the Nazis have done. What the Germans did, which â€Å"any country† would do for its own protection, were provoked by the Jews. Certain accusations were tossed to the Jews, like using the mass media as its main tool in exercising its authority and the media composed mostly of Jews will work together as brothers. That the Jews wanted to have the power over the world’s funds by using the Germany for Israel.Even the Germans themselves find these ideas absurd but still they used it in the war and find beneficial f or them during the war. In order to even out the Nazis violence with every different abuse done, the allied nations were directed by these propagandas. The deniers attempted to reveal that even though Nazis perpetrate crimes opposed to the Jews, they should not be singled out in perpetrating such crimes and for that reason they’re not the ones’ who must be blamed for these crimes ad they do not deserve special punishment at all.There were attempts to minimize the total of Jews killed to a much smaller than six million. Even though the facts are undeniable and the proofs are convincing of the deaths of millions of people in their account and in addition to the admission of Nazis on trial at Nuremberg, Holocaust deniers always find time rebuffing these actuality. The author herself is having hard time pointing out a lot of times all over the book the ambiguity of their assertions; it seems that the main peculiarity of these deniers constantly paying no attention to these presented facts.There are esteemed scholars that are now joining in the crew of defending those who were supposed to be interrogated. The author herself is alarmed by these scholars, because they’re not racist and not even a German in blood and may account for more advocates of Holocausts. The major composition of the book is mainly monographic which share out a great amount of information in a very simple and specific way so that even undergraduate students will easily understand the contents.Though monograph means a singe subject, the book itself does not only showcase a single subject but even broader ones. An absolute definition of the book is somewhat as well restrictive. The authors’ reliability for undertaking the issue is well-establish. Certain facts are supported with historical evidences. It gives more understanding beyond someone’s perspective of the reality of what once has affected the word we are living. . References Gingerich, Charity. 2006. Mon thly Column. Emory University. Leff, Laurel. 2005. The journal of American History. Cambridge University Pres.

Analysis of the Cultural Framework of Norway

All human beings are affixed to some form of cultural system which dictates the way they do things and how they relate to one another (Tavanti 106). These unwritten norms, beliefs and values are affixed firmly to a cultural framework which is a blue print that enables them to be expressed. Each community has got its own cultural framework which binds people who share a lot in common e. g. a nationality and live within a distinct boundary like for example a country. In instances where the country has a large geographical area or has a mixture of distinct races there could be an existence of more than one cultural framework. An example of a country like this is the United States which has got two distinct races: black and white existing side by side although each race has got its own cultural framework. No country in the world exists without its own unique national culture. This paper will attempt to examine the cultural framework of Norway using findings from a study carried out by renowned professor Geert Hofstede who has studied the cultural frameworks of various countries and communities in the world at large overtime. Hofstede studied the cultural framework of Norway and came up with five dimensions. These are Power Distance Index, Individualism, Masculinity, Uncertainty Avoidance Index, Long-Term Orientation (Hofstede). Hofstede describes masculinity as the opposite of femininity and in culture it refers to the roles that the males carry out as compared to the females in a community. This dimension by Hofstede shows what it means to be male or female in any community. Holland, Blair & Sheldon argue that in most of the western countries, masculinity is hegemonic while femininity is emphasized (Holland, Blair & Sheldon 7). The characteristics exhibited by masculine members of society are power, authority, competence on technical matters etc while feminine members of society are tied down more to fulfilling the desires of their masculine counterparts (Holland, Blair & Sheldon 7). Hofstede’ scale places Norway’s masculinity index low at around 5%. This is low compared to many countries e. g. Germany where the masculinity scale is 65 percent. This shows that compared to other countries the difference between the values of the males and females of the country is not very large and both of them are treated with almost an equal status. For instance in a country with a low masculinity index like Norway both the men and women can do similar jobs without people raising their eyebrows like babysitting or cooking. The girls are also educated to the same level as boys and the number of boys and girls who graduate from university are almost similar. The similarity though is that most of the females in the world are concerned with how they look while males are measured according to their achievements. Individualism refers to the degree to which members of a society operate as single sovereign entities and are treated as such. Hofstede adds that it is the opposite of collectivism where individuals live as a community. Or groups e. g. extended families that consist of several relatives e. g. grandfathers, uncles, in-laws, aunts etc. in the individualism index provided by Hofstede places the country at 62%. This shows that most of the people in Norway are used to living and being treated as individuals rather than a collection where people think on their own and pursue their dreams as individuals. Countries with high individualism scores like the United States are also the ones with the highest economic strengths. On the issue of individualism Ponderator argues that the advantages of living in a country with a high individualism index are the treatment of all people with equality, freedom and independence (Ponderator 23). Furthermore individualists are considered to be high achievers and are very competitive as compared to collectivists who work as a group as this slows down the progress of the group as whole. However with individualism cohesion between people of an individualistic country tends to loosen with time and families are the ones that are affected mostly. For instance high divorce rates exist in most of the western countries. Power distance index refers to the division of wealth and power between the members of a population of a country. Hofstede says that it also shows how unequal the societies of the world are in terms of wealth and power distribution and the fact that the people without power have come to accept that power and wealth distribution is indeed unequal. His findings place Norway’s power distance index at 25% which is relatively low compared to most of the countries. According to Moij, a low power distance index represents a society that has its people operating on almost the same economic levels as the governments try to focus on providing equal opportunities and rights to its citizens (Moij, 83). He further gives illustrations like for instance in high power distance index economies people attempt to dress as nicely as possible in that you can know the economic strength of people from their outfits. On the contrary in low power distance index economies people do not care too much on what they wear as they are the same. He also adds that a low power distance index country like Norway is as a result of high levels of education within its population. Moij defines uncertainty avoidance as the level of fear of uncertain occurrences happening to them through their instincts and the steps that they take to avoid these unplanned occurrences (Moij, 83). The results shown on Hofstede’s index show Norway’s uncertainty avoidance index at 45% which is just below the centre mark. Moij further adds on that countries with low uncertainty avoidance index are more open to change and innovation. They also do not seem to care much about the quality of food that they eat e. g. it is uncommon t find people insisting to drink mineral water when piped water is clean. They also do not care too much about their physical appearances and are less emotional and more tolerant (83). The fifth dimension is an addition to the first four and was part of Hofstede’s plan to find out the difference in thinking between the people who live in western countries and those who live in the east. This was after it was discovered that the east is developing rapidly in terms of business and economy and no information was available originally to explain the success of some countries from the east in innovations, business etc (Moij, 84) Norway’s long-term orientation is placed at a low of 20% which in essence means it is a short term orientation country. Characteristics of the population of Norway with respect to their orientation could be they respect their culture, appreciate presents and give back, protection of personal reputations etc. Conclusion The 5 cultural dimensions outlined by Professor Geerte Hofstede gave a good framework for studying the difference in cultures in the world. It shows why people uphold certain beliefs and even passing them through generations. This paper has evaluated a case study of Norway which is in Europe while at the same time comparing it with other countries to show the difference in cultures.

It was the colossal vitality of Gatsbys illusion that ultimately destroyed him Essay Example

It was the colossal vitality of Gatsbys illusion that ultimately destroyed him Essay Example It was the colossal vitality of Gatsbys illusion that ultimately destroyed him Paper It was the colossal vitality of Gatsbys illusion that ultimately destroyed him Paper Essay Topic: Literature The Great Gatsby is a story about the corruption of the American dream. Jay Gatsby represents a man with unrealistic ambitions whose dreams are destroyed by the sheer weight and magnitude on which they illusion are founded. His inability to alter to his goals according to the reality of the situation leads to his downfall. James Gatz was born to shiftless and unsuccessful farm people, whom his imagination had never really accepted as his parents at all. He was a poor and disenchanted with his lowly status and hence, decided at a relatively young age, to leave home and seek out a life of wealth that he believed he was rightfully entitled to. After leaving home he became involved in a number of menial jobs that failed to meet his imagined expectations. The colossal vitality of his dreams haunted him in his bed each night as he struggled to understand why he could not reach out and simply manifest his dreams. His heart was a constant, turbulent riot as he fought with the illusions in his head. He created an escape in the form of Jay Gatsby, a platonic conception of himself, one through which he had the means of eluding his realities, an outlet for his imagination, a satisfactory hint of the unreality of reality. His life changed when he met Dan Cody, whose wealth, and in particular his yacht, represented all the beauty and glamour in the world. Gatsby rapidly identified with this new world and was prepared to do whatever was required to be part of it. It was from this moment that Gatsbys illusions took firm hold in his mind, propelling him ever forward into the vivacity of life. Gatsbys greatest illusion revolved around his childhood sweetheart, Daisy. She was the first nice girl Gatsby had ever known and she reciprocated his feelings. His first trip to her home left Gatsby in awe. Her beautiful house, her gay and radiant activities, her shining motor cars; these all increased her value in his eyes. Gatsby fell in love with Daisy and what she had (and represented at a societal level) only helped to intensify his feelings for her. When Gatsby was sent overseas during the war, he naively assumed that the Daisy he had left behind would be there for him upon his return. He believed that the love they shared would bond them forever and he formed an image of her that strengthened and magnified over the years of their separation. During his absence, however, Daisy had seen no reason to remain faithful to Gatsby; she had met and married Tom Buchannan and established a family in East Egg. When Gatsby returned from the war he was a hero, but had lost his love. Rather than re-assessing the relationship and acknowledging that their love had probably been doomed from the start given their different backgrounds, he set out to win her back by acquiring the same lifestyle and trappings that she enjoys. Gatsby bought a grand mansion in West Egg and re-created himself, complete with elaborate and intricate stories of his past; lies which captivated those around him. Gatsby wanted Daisy to see what he has become, to show her that he is worthy of her and also what she is missing out on. Through a meeting arranged by Nick, Daisys cousin, Gatsby was able to showcase his new life. Daisy was captivated by the immense beauty of all that Gatsby now owned and overwhelmed by his wealth and success. Daisy was impressed by Gatsbys lifestyle and possessions and he revalued everything in his house according to the measure of response it drew from her well-loved eyes. However, Nick noted that at the end of the afternoon there was the expression of bewilderment on Gatsbys face and that there must have been moments even that afternoon when Daisy had tumbled short of his dreams through no fault of her own, but because of the colossal vitality of his illusion. Once again, Gatsby did not pause and reflect on what has happened, he did not attempt to see the situation as it was and realise that Daisy could not be part of his life. As Nick commented, No amount of fire or freshness can challenge what a man can store up in his ghostly heart. The other great illusion was his belief in the American Dream. He believed that someone from humble beginnings could acquire wealth and with that they would be accepted into the upper echelons of society. Moreover, he believed that happiness depended on being materially well off and part of the elite. Gatsby started off as an unskilled worker but he was later prepared to do what it took to acquire wealth, even if this meant dishonest dealings. His association with (jew) provided him with the possibility to fund his dreams. He developed the mentality that the end justified the means, as his growing ambition impaired his judgement. His desire to be wealthy and able to attract and impress Daisy clouded any notion of the need for honest, hard work to achieve these objectives. Gatsby believed that once he was rich, the rest of his dream would fall into place, including being an accepted member of the upper classes. However, the aristocratic families of East Egg held him in some sort of contempt. Even though Gatsby seemed to have as much money as they did, he lacked their sense of social nuance and easy, aristocratic grace. The members of the establishment, as typified by Tom Buchannan, mocked and despised him for being new money; someone was still not able to buy into the exclusive area of East Egg. The elite they took advantage of his generosity and behaved rudely towards him yet he took no offence nor challenged them about their behaviour. Gatsby so wanted to be part of their set and was caught up in this illusion that he did not see people for what they were or question their motives. He did not see that they were people who used others and discarded them at their leisure. His failure to recognise this (and the unreal nature of his dream) ultimately cost him his life. Driven by the desire to escape his lowly beginnings and the misguided belief that Daisy Buchanan had loved him and that money (and extravagance) was what was required to recapture her, Jay Gatsby pursued the American dream. In the process, he acquired great wealth, re-invented himself and adopted the lifestyle of the rich and famous. The dream, however, became an obsession of gigantic proportions that clouded his judgment and destroyed his grip on reality. Wealth (and the pursuit of Daisy) did not bring him love, happiness and status but instead lead him down a path where his failure to see people and situations clearly (and re-evaluate his goals), led to his death. His grand dream was ultimately an illusion.

History and Geography of Germany

History and Geography of Germany Population: 81,471,834 (July 2011 estimate)Capital: BerlinArea: 137,847 square miles (357,022 sq km)Coastline: 2,250 miles (3,621 km)Highest Point: Zugspitze at 9,721 feet (2,963 m)Lowest Point: Neuendorf bei Wilster at -11 feet (-3.5 m)Germany is a country located in Western and Central Europe. Its capital and largest city is Berlin but other large cities include Hamburg, Munich, Cologne and Frankfurt. Germany is one of the most populous countries of the European Union and it has one of the largest economies in Europe. It is known for its history, high standard of living and cultural heritage. History of Germany: Weimar Republic to Today According to the U.S. Department of State, in 1919 the Weimar Republic was formed as a democratic state but Germany gradually began to experience economic and social problems. By 1929 the government had lost much of its stability as the world entered a depression and the presence of dozens of political parties in Germanys government hampered its ability to create a unified system. By 1932 the National Socialist Party (Nazi Party) led by Adolf Hitler was growing in power and in 1933 the Weimar Republic was mostly gone. In 1934 President Paul von Hindenburg died and Hitler, who had been named Reich Chancellor in 1933, became Germanys leader.Once the Nazi Party took power in Germany nearly all democratic institutions in the country were abolished. In addition, Germanys Jewish peoples were jailed as were any members of opposing parties. Shortly thereafter the Nazis began a policy of genocide against the countrys Jewish population. This later became known as the Holocaust and around six m illion Jewish people in both Germany and other Nazi occupied areas were killed. In addition to the Holocaust, Nazi governmental policies and expansionist practices eventually led to World War II. This later destroyed Germanys political structure, economy and many of its cities.On May 8, 1945 Germany surrendered and the United States, United Kingdom, USSR and France took control under what was called Four Power Control. Initially Germany was to be controlled as a single unit, but eastern Germany soon became dominated by Soviet policies. In 1948 the USSR blockaded Berlin and by 1949 East and West Germany were created. West Germany, or the Federal Republic of Germany, followed principles set forth by the U.S. and U.K., while East Germany was controlled by the Soviet Union and its communist policies. As a result, there was severe political and social unrest in Germany throughout most of the mid-1900s and in the 1950s millions of East Germans fled to the west. In 1961 the Berlin Wall was constructed, officially dividing the two.By the 1980 pressure for political ref orm and German unification was growing and in 1989 the Berlin Wall fell and in 1990 the Four Power Control ended. As a result, Germany began to unify itself and on December 2, 1990 it held the first all German elections since 1933. Since the 1990s, Germany has continued to regain its political, economic and social stability and today it is known for having a high standard of living and a strong economy. Government of Germany Today Germanys government is considered a federal republic. It has an executive branch of government with a chief of state who is the countrys president and a head of government who is known as the chancellor. Germany also has a bicameral legislature made up of the Federal Council and the Federal Diet. Germanys judicial branch consists of the Federal Constitutional Court, the Federal Court of Justice and the Federal Administrative Court. The country is divided into 16 states for local administration. Economics and Land Use in Germany Germany has a very strong, modern economy that is considered the fifth largest in the world. In addition, according to the CIA World Factbook, it is one of the worlds most technologically advanced producers of iron, steel, coal cement and chemicals. Other industries in Germany include machinery production, motor vehicle manufacture, electronics, shipbuilding and textiles. Agriculture also plays a role in Germanys economy and the main products are potatoes, wheat, barley, sugar beets, cabbage, fruit, cattle pigs and dairy products. Geography and Climate of Germany Germany is located in Central Europe along the Baltic and North Seas. It also shares borders with nine different countries - some of which include France, the Netherlands, Switzerland and Belgium. Germany has a varied topography with lowlands in the north, the Bavarian Alps in the south and uplands in the central part of the country. The highest point in Germany is Zugspitze at 9,721 feet (2,963 m), while the lowest is Neuendorf bei Wilster at -11 feet (-3.5 m).The climate of Germany is considered temperate and marine. It has cool, wet winters and mild summers. The average January low temperature for Berlin, the capital of Germany, is 28.6ËšF (-1.9ËšC) and the average July high temperature the city is 74.7ËšF (23.7ËšC).To learn more about Germany, visit the Geography and Maps section on Germany on this website. Source:Central Intelligence Agency. (17 June 2011). CIA - The World Factbook - Germany. Retrieved from: https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/geos/gm.html ï » ¿Infoplease.com. (n.d.).Germany: History, Geography, Government, and Culture- Infoplease.com. Retrieved from: infoplease.com/ipa/A0107568.html United States Department of State. (10 November 2010). Germany. Retrieved from: state.gov/r/pa/ei/bgn/3997.htm Wikipedia.com. (20 June 2011). Germany - Wikipedia, the Free Encyclopedia. Retrieved from: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Germany

Case IH AFS percision Farming Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Case IH AFS percision Farming - Essay Example The AFS is defined by a clear-cut product range illustrated by its business portfolio, which includes; planting, field performer and harvesting solutions. Mechanization and innovation in agriculture aimed at enhancing agricultural processes and output within the constraints of natural and human resources have reached their peak within the context of attention given by Case IH. Making a grand entry in to the market in the modern day competition and expansion of agricultural technologies makes it an important strategy for Case IH to protract commercial production and marketing of its products in order to ensure sustained growth and productivity. In this discourse, marketing strategies and processes at Case IH in making its AFS product range a market success is enumerated in a number of perspectives. Product development at Case IH has been going on since its inception in 1842 giving a long experience extending to over a century and a half. This implies that the marketing mix at the corporation is one of the most complete in the market today, having observed agricultural needs change to the levels that they are in currently. Perhaps what defines this experience is the perfect product mix that the farmer enjoys upon making purchases at its outlets worldwide. Several products designed for the enhanced production are made available in over 160 countries of distribution (Case IH, 2011). Product research mix as mentioned before offers the solution to making the marketing strategy at Case IH as responsive to agricultural needs as it is amid the witnessed climatic changes. Case IH has been able to create a unique market niche that accurately handles small scale and large scale farm needs. Among the features of this market, coverage is the wide array of farm equipment, machinery, implements, and computer software that enable the modern farmer at any level of operation to be in need of their products (CNH, 2009). Brand image is not an

Gender Segregation in Education Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Gender Segregation in Education - Essay Example Studies have shown teachers spend more time with the boys in the classroom than with the girls. (MacNaughton, 2004, 82)This may be due to disruptions by the boys, although the teacher is often unaware of the amount of time spent with boys over girls. In the personality domain, there are various notable traits with gender differences. These include aggression, conformity, emotional adjustment, values and life goals and achievement orientation. Numerous studies have shown that whilst adolescent boys are more aggressive than girls in terms of both physical and verbal aggression, during adolescence the differences between males and females are negligible at primary school level (Vialle et al, 2000, p.154). This is not saying that girls become physically aggressive but perhaps resort to verbal aggression or the use of covert forms of aggression such as social alienation (malicious gossip and rumors, exclusion) (Vialle et al, 2000, p.154). Statistically, girls are more conformant than boys and are more likely to seek help from adults than are boys. (Grieshaber, 2004, 22) This difference is attributed to the observation ...that girls tend to participate in adult-structured activities on the other side boys are more likely to participate in activities with little adult involvement in school. (Vialle et al, 2000, p.154). Emotional behavior by boys is expressed differently, depending on gender. While females are more likely to freely display their emotions, males are more likely to suppress their feelings, with the exception of anger. (Walkerdine, 1999, 172) Most researchers attribute these differences to societal expectations rather than biological differences. This can be supported by studies of boys under five years of age. (Vialle et al, 2000, p.154).