A Critique of the Lin Article Essay

Lin, Mack, Enright, and Baskin (2004) state that prior to the writing of this article anger and related emotions have already been associated as triggers within the realm of substance abuse. As way of illustration the authors cite the Project Match 12-step facilitation therapy manual which states that â€Å"Anger and resentment are pivotal emotions for most recovering alcoholics† (Nowinski, Baker, & Carroll, as found in Lin et al, 2004, p. 1114). The traditional therapeutic method of choice within treatment settings has been that of anger management. The focus of this form of treatment is in establishing surface level coping mechanisms by â€Å"attempting to teach patients to more effectively manage or express anger rather than actually decrease their anger† (Dakken et al, 1995 as found in Lin et al, 2004 p. 1114). The authors present that there is insufficient documentation related to the efficacy of this approach. An alternative approach has been developed by a number of researchers titled Forgiveness Therapy (FT). FT states that while anger, resentment and other accompanying related emotions are correct responses to severe violations, harmful results are attributed to the same on a daily basis. The therapeutic goal, therefore, is in assisting the client in working towards educating the client regarding healthy forgiveness as a choice. The authors advise that â€Å"Robust results have been found when FT has been applied to certain populations† and â€Å"has been shown to decrease the frequency and severity of anger, anxiety and depression rather than simply improving individuals’ ability to cope with these emotions† (Lin et al, 2004, p. 115). Lin et al, (2004) chose support for the validity of FT by presenting the hypothesis that inpatient clients for substance abuse treatment who received FT would demonstrate â€Å"less anger, depression, anxiety, and vulnerability to substance abuse† than similar clients who received traditional anger management treatment. Subjects were randomly chosen within a treatment center to receive either FT or Alcohol and Drug Counseling (ADC) treatment from a group of suggested participants. All were diagnosed as substance abusers. Each participated in four instruments: The EFI, which is a sixty item self-report measure of self forgiveness, the BD1-11, which measures symptoms related to depression, the CSE1 which evaluates attitudes towards self, and STAI which assesses anxiety. Each participant also became involved in a 12 week program, either within the FT procedure or the ADC procedure. The ending result verified the original hypothesis for the researchers in that the FT group â€Å"demonstrated significantly greater improvement from pretest to posttest† (Lin et al, 2004, p. 117), as well as a marked difference in retention of improvements between the two therapeutic groups after four weeks apart from the therapy sessions. The authors did present five cautions. The first was the lack of being able to generalize the findings of the study due to the size of the testing. The second is the degree to which resentments are the norm within client’s treatment histories. The third caution is related to the need for the client to persevere within the therapy due to the length and depth of the therapy involved. The fourth caution is related to providing time for follow up data beyond the initial four month time frame which was provided for the purposes of this study. The fifth caution is that there may have possibly been some unforeseen effects by the therapist involved within the experiment since only one therapist conducted therapy for both groups. The authors summarize their findings by stating that chemical dependency issues may be linked to or are a result of unresolved negative emotional issues such as anger and resentment, and that future study of comparing and contrasting FT with more traditional anger management may continue to reinforce the advantage of therapeutically engaging in root issues rather than simply reinforcing traditional anger management daily coping methods. Critique of the Title From this researchers perspective the overall title is effective and appropriate. It is sufficiently specific while remaining properly concise. The wording provides a descriptive picture of the contents of the article while remaining under twenty words. The title also properly identifies the type of participants in the study, as well as the variables which are analyzed. The authors remain clear of utilizing jargon and acronyms which â€Å"might be unknown to the audience† (Pyrczak, 2008, p. 20). Pyrczak advises that it is normally unwise for the title of an article to reveal the results of the study (Pyrczak, 2008, p. 16). The authors of this article prove to be careful to not reveal the ultimate findings, while still causing interest by the use of their description. It is clear that the authors of this article took careful consideration in the formatting of this preliminary descriptor. Critique of the Abstract Overall this abstract is effective and appropriate. It clearly presents the purpose of the article in a clear and concise manner. The authors reveal the foundational underpinnings, the resulting hypothesis as well as the study group utilized for the overall experimentation. Highlights of the study are provided in the form of mentioning a general overview of the Forgiveness Therapy as well as indicating a favorable outcome linked to the hypothesis. The abstract did not become encumbered with titles of specific measures, except to indicate that there was a 12 week time frame of counseling sessions. While not giving specific statistics, the abstract was clear in concluding that not only were the results of this research positive, but that the authors felt confident to advise that this study substantiated the role of FT as a viable alternative for residential drug treatment. Critique of the Literature Review Overall, the literature review portion of this article is appropriate as well as informative. The purpose of the article along with the stated hypothesis logically flows from the abstract. For example, while reading the article the specific problem area which the authors are addressing is identified within the first paragraph, and this topic of concern is carried throughout the course of the article. Not only do the authors identify the problem area, that of â€Å"levels of anger and violence observed among alcohol and other substance abusers† (Lin et al, 2004, p. 114); but they also emphasize the gravity of the situation by providing specifics regarding the correlation between said negative emotions and the inability of addicts to remain sober. This provides the reasoning behind why greater development in this area within therapy needs to be addressed. In so doing the authors were also careful to properly cite sources for factual statements which reinforced their supposition. In so doing, they were careful to not inundate the article with an over abundance of cited material, leaving sufficient room for their own findings. While drawing out the concerns related to the anger and resentment issues at hand, the authors provide a well developed summary of both the Forgiveness Therapy model as well as the Anger Management Modules. The authors also provided clear and concise definitions of the instruments utilized within the study as well as providing well illustrated table in cooperation with the results of the study, and how those results can be interpreted with each instrument, and how they correlate with each other. For example not only does the article provide a Topic List for each group, (Lin et al, 2004, p. 1117 Table 1) it also provides a significant breakdown of the Means and Standard Deviation for Dependent Variables related to both study groups (Lin, Table 2, p. 1118). The only area in which this researcher may see the Literature Review as somewhat weak is in the fact that the latest research which is available within the article is from the year 2004, due to the age of the article in question. That being said, however, over all this is a well crafted review. Critique of Research Questions The hypothesis stated in this article leaves no room for questioning what it specifically entails. After providing a detailed foundation of why FT is a viable alternative in various counseling arenas as opposed to ADC, the authors then clearly state that they hypothesized that individuals in residential treatment for alcohol and drug dependence after receiving treatment augmented by FT, would demonstrate less anger, depression, anxiety and vulnerability to substance use and more self esteem than those receiving ADC treatment†¦. Lin et al, 2004, p. 1115). This hypothesis clearly provides not only a reference and a background of a therapy; it also provides specific measurable goals, and goals which can be contrasted by other measurable goals, within and on behalf of a specific demographic. Each of the specific parts of the hypothesis are logically developed within the literature review, and the developed research proves to be appropriate for the investigation at hand, albeit with specific concerns related to limitations which naturally apply due to the limited nature of the study in regards to amount of participants, limited amount of time for follow up study for the initial research, and some concern over possible biases inherent due to the fact that one therapist facilitated both study groups.

Nutrition and Healthy Lifestyle

THE IMPORTANCE OF HEALTHY LIFESTYLE Why is living a healthy lifestyle important? Better lifestyle habits will reduce your risk of heart attack, you will feel better, have more energy and reduce your risk of illness. Living healthy also elevates your mood, helping you to feel happy and have more self confidence, which results in a better quality of life. Take an active approach to living healthy and improve you health. Living a healthy lifestyle is very important due to the increase of obesity in the United States. If you are not doing everything you can to improve your overall health you are jeopardizing the quality of your life.Today you can gain knowledge on the best foods for you, the best exercise routines for you and further information you need to help on your way to a healthier lifestyle. Today you will learn the importance of living a healthy lifestyle. Healthier living is becoming more important for people all over the world. Currently, more than 66% of US adults are either overweight or obese. The greatest increase is in the body mass index. Roughly 59 million American adults are in this group, which is the greatest health risk.Living a healthy lifestyle is very important in older people and is positively related to a reduced risk and a delay in the deterioration in their health. It slows down the aging process and helps the older generation stay strong and healthy. Living a healthier lifestyle also slows down the disease development and contributes to a longer life. The importance of a healthy lifestyle in children has grown tremendously. Obesity in children is increasing in all countries. Because of this factor it is more important than ever that we educate our children on the importance of a healthier living.They need to learn to eat healthy foods and they need to be put on a daily or 3 times weekly exercise schedule. Let your children know the health risks involved in being overweight. If we teach our children the pros of living a healthier lifest yle they will carry this knowledge throughout their lives and become more productive and happier adults. Health issues associated with overweight children are diabetes and heart disease. These are the two most common side effects of childhood obesity. Any problems your child may have with obesity could and probably will be carried over to their adult life.Therefore, teaching them the importance of a healthy lifestyle at a young age is of utmost importance. The importance of a healthy lifestyle in the prevention of disease is widely understood and most people know that lifestyle changes and choices can be critical in determining their health and lifespan. Yet less than 5% of the population in the United States practices a healthy lifestyle. Living your life in a healthier manner will help create a strong body, strong mind and higher self-esteem: You need to drink lots of water, have regular physical activity, eat lots of fruits and vegetables, and protein.DO NOT smoke, drink or put a ny chemicals in your body that would cause your body harm. Nutrition is a key factor in the living of a healthy lifestyle. You need to look at what you eat now, lower your calories, make healthier choices and get educated. Another factor in the importance of living a healthy lifestyle is exercise. Muscle burns fat and therefore we must feed the muscle through good nutrition and build the muscle through healthy exercising. Protein stops muscle loss.It not only helps build your muscles when you are exercising it helps you keep your muscle in the times when you are unable to exercise. On your road to living healthier you could include protein bars and protein shakes as well as other sources of protein. What do I mean about healthy exercising? Well, some people tend to go overboard and lose track of the word healthy. They want to be thin fast and they get so obsessed they never see themselves as thin so they over exercise and actually cause injuries to their bodies. Exercise at a pace y our body can handle and slowly work up.The slower the weight comes off the more likely you will be to keep the weight off. I cannot stress enough the importance of living a health lifestyle, educating yourself and treating your body with the respect it deserves. You can do all of that right here. We have everything you need to learn about the importance of a healthy lifestyle. You will find articles, recipes, exercise information, and various other things to help you take steps to learning the importance of and start living a healthier lifestyle today! http://fit4lifefriends. com/topic/93444/1/

Brandon Suing Essay

Brandon Suing Essay Reality T.VWhy do people watch Reality T.V.? What makes it reality? If it isreality, whycan we separate our lives from theirs? Reality shows arent really reality,they just depictsmall pieces of real life. Most people think of it as just an ordinaryshow. Others see it assomething that they can relate to everyday life. Given this; there aredisputes while livingtogether, arguments, and actual fistfights can break out when viewing thesetypes ofshows. Sounds like real life right?When you actually put time and thought into it before you watch it,(most peopledont analyze the tendencies of these shows) you begin to notice that adesignatednumber of people might act the same way in a different show, or may actthe same way,every time. These characters are developed as the show progresses, gainingspecific attitudes. The characters consist of the witty, shy, smart-assedloud mouth, anda relatively mellow character. All must have encompass some traits; if theydidnt, itwouldnt really appeal to the v iewers. You cant make money out ofsomething peopledont watch. The way society is designed, most people watch what is shoved intotheir faces,and watch what is given. To watch these shows, you need the I.Q. of 1. Whydoes theirreality differ so much from ours? Society also determines how the people inthe showsact during the course of it. For instance, if two people are beingevaluated, and they getbad reviews, the editors of the show clip out parts that are irrelevant,and they showparts of that person that would make them more appealing to the viewers. This isnt right,adjusting the way that a person is shown so that they be more appealing,with or withoutthe persons consent. This cant be real, Dramatizing people for the solepurpose ofentertainment. Racial issues are in this as well; most shows consist of a variety ofnationality. They try to have at least one of each of the ethnic groups. This way, theshow may drawattention from viewers from different races. From my personal view, thedirections ofthese shows are headed down a one-way street, theres hardly any characterdevelopment. Most of them center on just a few themes, including danger, dating andfamily feudsituations. This goes on and on from one show to the next. This isntsomething that wehave to struggle to understand. The shows require a little directing and alittle fewerscreen writing. They compete for prizes which vary (cars, to money, even ahusband / wife!). Then to add to the drama, they add a twist; a person hasto vote off theirfriends, or the one least liked, some are even voted off by the actualpeople who watchthe show. All in all, reality T.V. may be something that you and your friendsand family cansit back during the day to watch just to get a kick out of it. As for thereality part, youmay not find that much, if any at all. It may be the new thing in T.V., butits still got along way to go before it deserves the name Reality T.V..

Influence of Aristotle on John Stuart Mills and Karl Marxs Studies Essay

Influence of Aristotle on John Stuart Mills and Karl Marxs Studies - Essay Example This paper illustrates that Aristotle believes that all humans are determined to flourish. It is appropriate and desired the end of all human actions. To understand how something functions, you need to understand its nature. Aristotle provides four different human nature aspects. Aristotle is usually quoted saying â€Å"Man is a political creature.† The meaning of Aristotle has a deeper understanding as compared to the known translation. The quote from Aristotle that says â€Å"is a rational being who lives in societies?† provides four different aspects of human nature. The first aspect is referring to the human as physical beings (to mean humans are animals). According to Aristotle, Physical beings require rest, nourishment, exercise, and many others that help in keeping their body to function properly. The second is that the human being referred as emotional beings (to mean they are animals). What differentiate plants from animals, as argued by Aristotle, is that anim als have desires, wants, urges, and reactions. These do not exist in plants. The human being can recognize what they want in the world, and they also possess the power of volition get what they want. Furthermore human can avoid what they dislike. These wants can be complicated for humans, however, at the long run, we all have wants and needs that are obtained from the underlying sources. The third is human is a social being (this is because they live in groups). Human must function and live in various societies. No man can survive by himself and human majorly performs well only in social settings. Human social nature goes in hand with our emotional nature; such that the wants and needs  required by a human can only be attained through the social nature of humanity. For example, human were beings that flourished as hermits, Friendly and trust cooperation needs will not be nearly so urgent. The fourth is that the human is a rational being. To the Greeks, most of the cultures, includ ing the current ones that have made humans human were our rationality. Human is expressive, creative, able to obey reasons and knowledge-seeking. Most of the time human being may not follow reasons, and most of the time may not want to exercise their minds. However, the central part of human existence relates their nature of being a rational animal.

Applications of Environmental Valuation for Determining Externalit Article

Applications of Environmental Valuation for Determining Externalit Cost - Article Example However the regulators and the companies alike have difficulties in converting the physical consequences of such abating into monetary terms. This becomes necessary to guide the regulators and the companies to fix the priorities in adapting various technologies on the basis of the costs and benefits of the individual processes involved. In the case of goods and services that are being traded in a competitive market it becomes easier to value the externalities. The 'externalities' denote the external effects caused by positive or negative spillovers from the production of a product or service. The agency involved in such production of the product or service may be asked to provide additional technology or processes to reduce the negative impact of such externalities. In this case the cost of such externality will be shifted to the producer. Alternatively the consumer may be charged more to discourage the use of the particular product which has a negative externality and in that case the social cost of the externality is borne by the consumer. But problems may arise when the product or service is not traded in the market. ... In a process of evaluation of the benefits of abatement the first step is to estimate the effect of the emissions on the health, visibility, deterioration of materials and depletion of natural resources and damages to the natural environment. The logical next step is to convert the effect into dollar terms. For instance the deterioration on the steel structures caused by the emission of Sulphur dioxide can be arrived as a percentage on the weight of the structures over a period of year and later on this percentage can be converted dollars. This way the cost of replacing the deterioration of steel structures can be calculated. Thus damage functions can be established for all effects of environmental pollution including the health hazard to human beings caused by air pollution. It thus becomes possible to model all the physical effects which in turn help to arrive at the quantitative effects of changes in various levels of pollution. The final step in assessing the monetary value of th e environment impact can be calculated by ascribing a dollar value to the physical changes. However in spite of spending more time and efforts on the research on the qualitative and quantitative effects of environmental pollution no certain models could be developed. This has made the damage function models somewhat ineffective in estimating the value of environmental impact precisely. Willingness to Pay (WTP) Studies: In the example of steel structures the cost of replacing can be ascertained by taking into account the market value of the replacement or repairs to the structures. This may turn out to be a good estimate of the monetary value of damages. But in those cases where it is difficult to monetize the physical changes like in the case of a health hazard due to pollutions of

Commercials in classrooms Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Commercials in classrooms - Essay Example Many factors are responsible for it. But for the present, the focus will be on one major factor, displaying of commercials in classroom. The School premises have become an important playground for the companies. To increase their customer base, companies marketing strategy makers have been innovating newer and newer ways. For many companies children and teenagers are being viewed as the vital customer base. They are inventing various ways to attract teenagers towards their product. Among the newly innovated ways, one of the important ones is using commercial in different parts of school premises to attract children’s and teenager’s attention towards their product. Earlier companies used to attract customer’s attention by giving advertisements of their products on T.V., radio, news Paper, magazines, billboards in the road sides etc. But now companies are making direct interaction with children and teenagers through schools. The present paper is concerned with a review of Mr. Michael Sandel’s essay on â€Å"Commercials in the classroom†. This paper actually seeks to analyze the demerits of using commercials in the classroom and then will discuss which kinds of advertisement ought to be removed from the classroom along with explaining the reasons for doing so. Commercials in classroom – a threat to pupil’s future: Classroom no longer remained the place of learning only. This holy place also has not been left untouched by corporate marketing strategy. Marketing personnel of the companies are now seeing a huge client base among the children and teenager. They, therefore, have become very much desperate to attract those customers to their products. They have invented new process of advertising for their products. Advertising on T.V, radio, news paper, etc does not ensure that these will be watched by the audiences they are targeting. If children and

Qatar sporting legacy Dissertation Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 15000 words

Qatar sporting legacy - Dissertation Example Having won the bid for the 2022 FIFA World Cup made Qatar the highlight of sports news, as the nation continues to establish and consolidate its position as a prime sporting destination. In line with the economic potential of hosting local and international sports events, the present study aims to determine the social, political and economic factors as the foundation that helped build Qatar's sporting legacy. A qualitative approach has been utilized, wherein data collection was processed using interview responses as primary sources, whereas journals, and the like, have been used as secondary sources. The study focused on answering the questions, (1) Can Qatar be a viable venue for holding sports events (2) Does Qatar have the necessary sporting infrastructure, economic and political stability to sustain its sporting legacy on a long term basis, (3) Can other Asian countries sustain a sporting legacy, similar to what Qatar has done. The researcher was able to determine that Qatar has the resources and the capacity to become a prime venue for holding both international and local sports events, as well as sustain its sports legacy on a long term basis. This is due to the country’s stable economic and political state, as supported by the nation's passion towards sports. It has also been found that other Asian economies would only be able to emulate Qatar's sporting legacy, given that the factors necessitated in creating one would be present. Chapter 1 Introduction Sports stand to command a pivotal place in Qatar’s social and national life. One primary reason behind this phenomenon is the fact that people in the Middle East do have a special predilection for outdoor activities. The sports legacy of Qatar is a unique mix of the new developments as well as the age old traditions. This is why, since the last two decades, the government of Qatar has embarked on a unique policy to promote the local and international sports in Qatar (QSC, 2010). The primary thrust of this policy is to introduce and support new sports like golf, soccer and tennis, while at the same time encouraging traditional sports like camel racing and horse racing. There is no denying the fact that modern Qatar can proudly boast of some of the best, world class sports facilities. Qatar not only intends to promote sports within the country, but also aspires to evolve into a popular tourist destination. The hosting of international sports events and competitions by Qatar has stimulated and enhanced the interest of the local population in sports (QSC, 2010). The awarding of 2022 FIFA World Cup to Qatar came as a surprise to most of the Asians, Americans and Europeans. However, the fact is that this Gulf

E marketing Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

E marketing - Assignment Example eting is used for sending email messages in order to the relationship of a merchant both with its previous and current customers in order to repeat business and encourage customer loyalty. E-marketing can also be used to send email messages in order to convince current customers or acquire new customers to purchase products or services of the business immediately. A merchant may also use email messages to add advertisements that are sent to their customers by other companies. This paper seeks to discuss the concept of e-marketing (Doyle and Stern, 2006). E-Marketing harmonizes the overall strategy of marketing perfectly, and provides advertising campaign with proven results that are measurable, which can take the company’s current marketing campaign to a higher level. For example, where e-marketing involves product promotion, query responses, event invitations, and newsletters, an all in one solution is provided by emails (Doyle and Stern, 2006). E-Marketing provides an easily customized and efficient form of marketing to advertising organizations and other businesses that complements their current strategies of advertisement and close in on the interactive and profitable market. In addition, e-marketing is beneficial to such organizations and other businesses because it allows them to target particular group of recipients and reach out to an engaged and defined audience. E-marketing also penetrates and overcomes any geographical parameters that may be a constraint to the other methods of communication. Efficiency is high in e-marketing. This is because the messages can be sent and distributed to many recipients by just one click. E-marketing is also cost effective and requires minimal investment in order to have an appropriate system set up to function. In addition, e-marketing is fast and the commercial messages are delivered to the inboxes of the recipients straight away and instantly (Tapp, 2005). E-marketing can be regarded as a form of e-commerce since

Report about the museum printing Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Report about the museum printing - Essay Example This painting exhibits exception for its realism and sensitive handling of the subjects. The painting is remarkable because it conveys the message of the low class occupied by the rural Africans. The workers are represented by as graceful and majestic figures (Los Angeles County Museum of Art, 89). The message of feeling sympathy and respect for the peasants is vividly exhibited in this painting. The art is a sculpture designed and constructed by the Tamil sculptors of the Chola dynasty. The sculptor measures 76.20 by 57.15 by 17.78 cm. The designers completed the sculpture to reflect the Siva as the lord of yoga. The sculpture represents the Indian civilization. The physical appearance resonates with the message of the sculptors that Siva is Supreme Being that represents the source of the cosmic dance. In addition, the sculpture’s representation of the source of dance is evident on the upper right hand of Siva, which holds a drum (Los Angeles County Museum of Art, 97). The drum represents a primeval sound at the creation of the earth. The artwork is a painting, which is among the first paintings to be acquired by the Los Angeles County Museum of art. The painting measures 102.07 by 106.83 cm. This painting is best known and it has been often reproduced in the American painting industry. The painting was designed and constructed by George Bellows in 1913. The painting conveys a message of hard work of the homemakers among the low class urbanites (Los Angeles County Museum of Art, 114). The blend of various colours ranging from red to orange conveys all aspects of life and integration in early city life. In conclusion, the artworks discussed in this essay successfully convey the intended message to the audience. The Cotton Pickers painting conveys the message of rural African American lifestyle, the Shiva as the Lord of Dance conveys the message of supremacy and source of dance

History Study Notes Essay Example for Free

History Study Notes Essay Topic 1 Investigating History †¢ interpret and construct time lines †¢ define the terms that describe historical periods of time †¢ the terminology and concepts of historical time, including year, decade, generation, century, age, BC/AD, BCE/CE †¢ sequence societies and events within specific periods of time †¢ ask historical questions †¢ distinguish between fact and opinion †¢ draw some conclusions about the usefulness of sources including a website †¢ examine differing historical perspectives and interpretations †¢ explain cause and effect †¢ identify significant people of the past  Ã¢â‚¬ ¢ examine the motives for people. s actions in the past †¢ the process of historical inquiry: . Fact and opinion . †¢ the usefulness of sources as evidence including a website . †¢ differing perspectives . cause and effect . history as the study of people †¢ explain the consequences of people. s actions †¢ describe some aspects of family/community heritage †¢ heritage issues †¢ appreciate the value of preserving and conserving our heritage Ancient Egypt †¢ the origins of the society or period †¢ identify the origins of the society or historical period †¢ daily life of men and women in the society or period  Ã¢â‚¬ ¢ describe how both men and women lived in the society or period †¢ Civics and citizenship in the society or period †¢ describe the way in which the people of the society or period were governed †¢ describe the rights and freedoms of different groups in the society or period †¢ beliefs and values of the people of the society or period †¢ explain the beliefs and values of the society †¢ impact of significant people and/or events †¢ explain the impact made by significant people and/or events on the society or period †¢ contacts with other peoples †¢ outline the contacts that the society had with other peoples.

The Impacts Of Social Media On Brand Marketing Marketing Essay

The Impacts Of Social Media On Brand Marketing Marketing Essay Introduction: This research will be conducted using Husqvarna as an exploratory case study. Husqvarna is the leading companies in the outdoor power product market and as the premium quality brand. They want to stand for professionalism throughout the company. Husqvarna is currently located in over 50 countries all over the world. During the last couple of years social media has grown rapidly and companies worldwide have started to use social media more frequently as a part of their marketing tool, no matter what market they represent. Even though if there is still a need for traditional marketing Husqvarna are shifting more and more from traditional marketing towards social media marketing, but all these parts are a part of their marketing mix. Husqvarna knows that their customers are out there on the net and for approximately one year ago they decided to start using social media marketing. Today they are primarily using Face book, Twitter and YouTube as their social media channels, which are a pa rt of their social media marketing. Background: Social Media is a new subject, but its background start from AOL Instant Messenger to Friendster to Google+ social media has perhaps changed more in ten years. Trend of online marketing, and specifically email marketing, is leap to happen. Internet marketing is becoming so common and included into the social media experience that its essentially becoming its own form of social media. Social media plays an important role in sharing information about products and brands. Actually I can say 60 percent of consumer researches are based on social media and learned about the specific brand or retailers through social networking sites. Problem Discussion: Social media marketing has emerged as the new way of doing marketing where the customers are no longer passive consumers as they were in the previous marketing forms, but rather here they are active participants; this is mainly due to the interaction possibilities that exist on Internet (Miller Lammas, 2010). The resources firms are investing on social media are incrementally increasing and firms are slowly shifting from a traditional way of doing marketing towards a more interactive way (Thackeray, al., 2008). When it comes to social media firms should focus more on creating long term relations with their customers and be active online, rather than on delivering messages and marketing different content (GrÙ nroos, 2007). Swedowsky (2009) mentions that if the firms manage to create strong brand awareness among their customers they will improve the likelihood of them do positive word-of-mouth promotion for the firm among their friends and family. This was the way before the st art of social media and the way has developed further (Swedowsky, 2009). GrÙ nroos (2007) mentions that Word-of-mouth promotion is the objective of social media marketing and the result of a successfully maintained relationship between the firm and their customers. Positive word-of-mouth results in improved brand awareness among current and potential customers, with an increased likelihood of them purchasing the firms products (GrÙ nroos, 2007). Carlsson (2010) mentions that the main obstacle for firms is that they cannot control word-of-mouth marketing, but rather it is the customers that have the control. Hence it is important that firms are successful in their interactions with their customers in order to keep the negative opinions to a minimum (Carlsson, 2010). If firms are successful in their social media marketing they will gain a competitive advantage over their market competitors, but firms have to be cautious due to they do not have a monopoly on the marketing tools, instead it is being shared with the customers whom has the majority of the control and can choose on their own accord where and how to reach out to the firm (Qualman, 2010). Carlsson (2010) mentions that there is a difference between what the firms tell their customers and what other people Are saying about the firm, therefore people usually tend to trust what is recommended by their friends and not the marketers. Swedowsky (2009) mentions that no matter how and why the firms tend to approach the customers to buy their products the purchasing decision has always been distinctive, mainly due to it is a social endeavor. Therefore is it necessary that retailers get involved and pay attention because people tend before making a purchase to consult somebody that they have trust in, mainly family members and friends (Swedowsky, 2009). Thus, if a firm has been successful in their interactions with their customers it can result in stronger brand awareness which has an impact on the customers willingness to purchase the firms products (GrÙ nroos, 2007). The stronger the customers brand awareness is, the more dominant will the firms brand be Because the customer will not look for other alternatives on the market, thus improving The customers loyalty to the firm (Kotler Ar mstrong, 2004). In order for a firm to gain long-term benefits from using social media they should use social media and relationship marketing concurrently due to here the customer is seen as a co-creator, compared to the old and traditional view where the customer is only a target to sell to (Miller Lamas 2010). When firms use social media they should have proper branding and customer service strategies that are needed for their overall social marketing strategy where participating in online conversation about the brand are vital for the firms success online (Williams, 2009). Hence, if firms want to be successful in their marketing activities they should listen to their customers, share information with them and build relationships in order to gain mutual trust so that they can influence their customers behavior (Miller Lamas 2010). Thus, social media facilitates the processes of interaction, relationship and value (Harridge-March Quinton, 2009). Research Objective: Objective of this research is to provide how companies can use social media as a marketing tool and branding tool in a consumer market. The result of this research will give a clear picture how companies can utilize social media in its marketing, what opportunities and challenges lies there, and tactics, tools and measurements, this study aims at offering a guideline for Companies planning marketing activities through social media. Research work will address the following main research questions: How does Social Media affect on consumers purchasing decision? What objectives, strategies and tactics can Companies use in marketing and branding through social media? What key performance indicators can Companies use in measuring the impact of marketing and branding activities through social media? How can Companies utilize social media as a marketing and branding tool in consumer marketing? Investigating the literature: I chose to do an analysis on the literature that has been conducted in the chosen field of interest. This due to I wanted to complement the previous research about how firms can use social media marketing in order to increase the brand awareness among their customers and thus have theories that can help me fulfill the purpose with our research. Besides social media marketing and brand awareness I decided to write about relationship marketing that is interrelated with social media marketing. Word-of-mouth is another phenomenon that is brought up in our theoretical investigation due to word of-mouth is the outcome of a successful managed relationship. Having a relationship based approach in firms social media activities is important because without a relationship approach the likelihood of the customer doing word-of-mouth marketing is less, compared to having a relationship based approach (GrÙ nroos, 2007). Thus I see how relationship marketing is important when firms do social media marketing and for the future outcome of the relationship which affects the word-of-mouth promotion. Another phenomenon I will bring up shortly that is relevant within this field is viral marketing that is closely interrelated to social media marketing and word-of-mouth promotion. I wanted to find out how firms should use social media marketing as a marketing tool in their daily operations and that is why we found these different areas that I mentioned above to be vital for my theoretical findings. We think that if a firm is successful to combine all these parts in their social media marketing they will be able to increase the brand awareness among their customers. I will mention these different concepts more in the theoretical parts, but this was a short introduction why I chose to bring them up in my theoretical findings. Brand awareness: Aaker (1991) mention that when customers recognize a brand in a specific product category and the brand is characterized by the customers attitudes that they are familiar with it is called brand awareness. Aaker (1991) further explains that brand awareness has three different levels: Brand recognition, brand recall and top-of-mind. Brand awareness is unique due to it something that the firm creates and promotes in form of marketing messages, but it is the customers brand recognition that is the objective of the firms marketing activities. Without brand recognition it would be difficult for the firm to create awareness and good perception of their brand among its customers. Brand awareness gets its full use when the firms brand is being shown in different social communities in order to be able to attract a large number customers to the firm (Aaker, 1991). According to Aaker (1996) the purpose of brand awareness is to create and improve the presence of the brand in the customers memory . The stronger presence the brand has in the customers memory the stronger brand awareness will the customer have and the firm can through different marketing activities like for instance repetitive advertising and active advertisement reach the mind of the customers (Aaker, 1996). Relationship marketing In 1994 GrÙ nroos defined the purpose of relationship marketing as: Identify and establish, maintain and enhance and, when necessary, terminate relationships with customers at a profit so that the objectives of all parties involved are met; and this is done by mutual exchange and fulfillment of promises (GrÙ nroos, 1994, p. 275). HÙ†¡kansson and Snehota (1995) discussed that a relationships creates something priceless that neither the firm nor the customer can buy nor develop alone and the result of the creation cannot be easily copied. HÙ†¡kansson and Johansson (2001) further described that a relationship is built on collecting and sharing knowledge between the two parties involved that cooperate with each other by making the most in order employ the knowledge they share between them and in that way make a satisfying exchange that both parties are content with. The more the two parties involved have a mutual relationship and share their information to each other, the more valuable does the information get, leading to companies working harder to fulfill the other partys needs (Palmatier 2006). The firm should have a long-term relationship approach towards the customer , thinking long-term in order to create a dialogue with the customer that both parties will benefit from and not only look for a share of the customers wallet, but also a share of his heart and mind (GrÙ nroos, 2007, p. 321). Lifetime value of a customer relationship In 2006 Ford, Gadde, HÙ†¡kansson and Snehota explained that a relationship has value for both the firm and the customer in two different ways; a current and a potential value. The current value is obtained when the firm and customer have interacted for a while and learned about each other, which facilitates the future interaction between them. The information that is shared through interaction will lead to a more effective implementation of the problem that is discussed. The interaction can lead to creating and adapting new solutions which can improve the relationship so that future problems will be reduced and future, potential value will evolve (Ford, et al., 2006). Word-of-mouth Kirby and Marsden (2006) explain that through the years traditional marketing has become less effective and it has become more difficult for firms to reach the customers, therefore the concept of word-of-mouth has been an important role in attracting attention to the firm and its products and services in a natural way. Kirby and Marsden (2006) further mention that word-of-mouth is a non-commercial concept that has a commercial purpose, where the impact of consumers themselves spreading the information is higher and more reliable than if the firms would intentionally do it because here it is the customer themselves that recommend a company to someone else.Word-of-mouth is the collective name for the marketing that is designed in a noncommercial way to make the customers to start spreading information about the firm (Kirby Marsden, 2006). Social media marketing Drury (2007) describes social media as an online resource that people use to share different types of contents, for instance photos, videos, text, images, opinion, gossip, humor and ideas by using resources in form of blogs, social networks, wikis and others. As a user, social media marketing is based to give the opportunity to connect with friends and through linking sites, share their experiences. One may believe that it is just about giving and receiving a message, but that is not the case due to interactions within social media is about receiving and exchanging perceptions and ideas (Drury, 2007). Drury (2007) further explains that traditional marketing via television and newspapers is about delivering a message to the audience, whereas social media marketing is about building a conversation and relationship with the audience. Traditional marketing is a passive way of marketing compared to the fast and interactive social media marketing (Xiao, 2008). Social media marketing is a t wo-way process that engages an audience and a brand, and marketing has developed from one dimensional to a two-way process (Eely Tilley, 2009). Summary of the theoretical framework In the society usage of technology is high and firms offer their customers similar products to similar prices, thus having a relationship approach is crucial when firms do their social media marketing due to it offers something unique that no firm can buy; a relationship (HÙ†¡kansson Snehota, 1995). Having strong brand awareness among a firms customers will improve the relationship and improve the possibility of customer becoming brand advocates and doing free marketing for the firm in form of word-of mouth promotion (GrÙ nroos, 2007). Here the current customers can reach new customers that perhaps could not be reached by the firm or where the customers would ignore the firms initiatives due to they do not like to be forced into something and therefore prefer the word-of-mouth marketing which is a more unintentional and natural way of doing marketing (Kirby Marsden, 2006). By having current customers promoting the firms products and services they do not only attract new customer, but they also improve the firms relationship with current customers (Swedowsky, 2009) Improved brand awareness among the firms customers will result in a better relationship between the customers and the firm, thus improving the loyalty of the customer and also increasing the likelihood that the customer will continue purchasing the firms products and services (Anderson, et al., 2009). Having customers doing free word-of-mouth promotion for the firm is not only an objective with successful marketing, it is the outcome of a successful relationship and therefore relationship marketing and social media marketing are interrelated (GrÙ nroos, 2007). When we did the analysis of the literature we saw that social media and relationship marketing were interrelated due to both have interactions as an initial and essential part of their strategy to create or improve the relationship with the other party (GrÙ nroos, 2007). GrÙ nroos (2007) further mentions th at other aspects they have in common are that both have an increased customer loyalty and word-of-mouth as objectives. Hence we wanted to investigate more on this specific portion and see how it is related to brand awareness among a firms customers. A firm must cherish their customers brand awareness and continuously improve in order to be successful in their marketing (Anderson, et al., 2009). This improvement can be done by using different types of marketing activities, for instance use social media marketing and relationship marketing in conjunction to improve the customers brand awareness by having continuous interactions with their customers (GrÙ nroos, 2007). As the interaction becomes more regular it will become a dialogue where the firm is listening to the customers thoughts and feedback. If the customer is satisfied with the dialogue and the relationship it will result in the customer doing free word-of-mouth marketing to his friends and family (GrÙ nroos, 200 7). This can result in reduced marketing costs for the firm and in an increased possibility of the firm attaining new customers and thus generating higher revenues and improving the firms profitability (Ford, et al., 2006). With this in mind we saw that word-of-mouth is a powerful tool, but with a huge drawback from a firm point of view due to it cannot be controlled by them (Mangold Faulds, 2009). On the other hand a bad relationship where the customer is not satisfied with the interaction with the firm and the actions that the firm has made can result in the customer doing bad word-of-mouth promotion for the firm among his friends and family (Carlsson, 2010). Thus we see how important it is to cherish the relationship with the customer by using different marketing tools in order to strengthen the customers brand awareness, especially since the outcome of the relationship is either stronger or worse brand awareness, respectively good or bad word-of-mouth promotion from the customer (Gunawardena, et al., 2009) This shows how careful firms have to be in their marketing activities and take the relationship perspective due to having a satisfied customer will improve the likelihood of the customer doing good word-of-mouth promotion for the firm, and likewise having a dissatisfied customer will more likely do bad word-of-mouth against the firm (Carlsson, 2010). We have summarized th e theory in the figure below (figure 2.7), which we have illustrated on our own. Here we have tried to show the interrelation between the theories. Figure 2.7 show that if a firm wants to create strong brand awareness among their customers they have to use different marketing tools which we have mentioned throughout our theoretical part. There are marketing tools that the firm can control in form of social media, relationship and viral marketing that is initiated by the firm, and if the firm uses their marketing tools in the right way it will result in a stronger brand awareness among their customers (Aaker, 1991). This in turn will improve the likelihood of the customer promoting the firm and its products and services to new and current customers free of charge in form of word-of-mouth (GrÙ nroos, 2007). Word-of mouth promotion is the outcome of a successful relationship and strong brand awareness (Gunawardena, et al., 2009).

Donald McKay :: essays research papers fc

  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  During the 1840’s and 1850’s America experienced its golden age in shipping and sailing.1 At the front of this era was Donald McKay whose innovative ship designs lead to the numerous sea speed records, some of which stand today. For most of the early 19th century American ship building consisted of merchant and cargo ships. It took a long time for these ships to sail across seas. With the increased speed came decreased time to wait for pay. Another need for increased speed was the California gold rush of 1849. People wanted to make the trip as quickly as possible in order to stake their claims. Donald McKay’s clipper ships enabled people to do that.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  This paper investigates why Donald McKay is the father of American clipper ships. He was born in Shelburne, Nova Scotia, September 4, 1810.2 When Donald was sixteen years old he had the desire to learn the trade of ship building, so he went to New York. In 1826 New York was the worlds best shipbuilder and shipbuilding was America’s leading industry. McKay decided that in order to learn the trade he must obtain an apprenticeship. So he became an apprentice to Isaac Web who has appropriately been called the â€Å"Father of Shipbuilders†. This is because more successful master shipbuilders came out of Web’s shipyard than from any other place in America.3 At the conclusion of his apprenticeship he went on to work for Brown & Bell. In 1832 packet building was the best and most readily available work in New York. The majority of these ships were built at Isaac Web’s, Brown & Bell’s, and Smith & Dimon’s. At this time McKay was wh at would be called a free lance ship wright. McKay then married Albenia Martha Boole the eldest daughter of John Boole.4 At this time McKay then went to Newburyport and formed a partnership with William Currier.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  They formed the firm Currier & McKay and built the Courier. This was McKay’s first real production as designer and builder of a ship. The Courier was built for the coffee trade between New York and Rio de Janeiro and was sold to Andrew Foster & Son.5 Their firm soon dissolved and McKay then become connected with William Pickett and formed the firm of McKay & Pickett. Under this name they built the New York packet ship St. George. This was the first of the Red Cross Line.

Thomas Pynchons Mason & Dixon and Gravitys Rainbow :: Mason Dixon

Thomas Pynchon's Mason & Dixon and Gravity's Rainbow ....."Snow-Balls have flown their Arcs..." These words begin the wondrous passage that introduces us to the world of Thomas Pynchon's latest masterpiece, Mason & Dixon. In an obvious parody of "A screaming comes across the sky," the opening of Gravity's Rainbow, Pynchon sets the mood and pace for the rest of the novel. In contrast to the mindless pleasures, hopeless desperation, and ubiquitous death that dominate virtually every page of his apocalyptic earlier work, this novel begins with a joyful snowball fight between children on the streets of eighteenth-century Philadelphia. Indeed, the rest of the novel generally maintains this playful and happy tone. Unlike the sexually disturbed and socially displaced isolates that make up Pynchon's cast of prior heroes (or more aptly "anti-heroes"), the book focuses on the relationship of two normal men, Jeremiah Dixon and Charles Mason, who form an incredible bond of friendship. Needless to say, this has lead critics to wonder precisely what has happened to Pynchon in the last twenty years. Has marriage softened the author? Is this a "kinder, gentler" Pynchon for the nineties? To some extent, the fact that critics are still scrambling to explain the extreme differences between his previous work and Mason & Dixon may explain the relative paucity of literary criticism available on the new book to date. .....I would like to take a small first step towards a better understanding of Mason & Dixon by considering Pynchon's conception of history, a theme which is crucial to both it and Gravity's Rainbow. In spite of all the differences, Mason & Dixon remains a scathing indictment of conventional history as true to Pynchon as any of his other works. Furthermore, beyond setting the mood and providing self-parody, the opening is the first of many passages which both link the book to Gravity's Rainbow, and suggest that beneath the happy surface of the novel lie omens of a bleak future. In this context, Mason & Dixon can be read as a meditation on the era in which the technology, philosophy, politics, and economics that plague the twentieth century were just being conceived. For Pynchon, modern history has a destructive trajectory like that of a rocket, a path that begins around the time Mason and Dixon are working on their line, and ends in the nightmarish world of Gravity's Rainbow. .....Despite the fact that most of Pynchon's views remain a matter of constant debate in literary circles, scholars of Gravity's Rainbow seem to agree that Pynchon views history with a harshly skeptical postmodern eye. Thomas Pynchon's Mason & Dixon and Gravity's Rainbow :: Mason Dixon Thomas Pynchon's Mason & Dixon and Gravity's Rainbow ....."Snow-Balls have flown their Arcs..." These words begin the wondrous passage that introduces us to the world of Thomas Pynchon's latest masterpiece, Mason & Dixon. In an obvious parody of "A screaming comes across the sky," the opening of Gravity's Rainbow, Pynchon sets the mood and pace for the rest of the novel. In contrast to the mindless pleasures, hopeless desperation, and ubiquitous death that dominate virtually every page of his apocalyptic earlier work, this novel begins with a joyful snowball fight between children on the streets of eighteenth-century Philadelphia. Indeed, the rest of the novel generally maintains this playful and happy tone. Unlike the sexually disturbed and socially displaced isolates that make up Pynchon's cast of prior heroes (or more aptly "anti-heroes"), the book focuses on the relationship of two normal men, Jeremiah Dixon and Charles Mason, who form an incredible bond of friendship. Needless to say, this has lead critics to wonder precisely what has happened to Pynchon in the last twenty years. Has marriage softened the author? Is this a "kinder, gentler" Pynchon for the nineties? To some extent, the fact that critics are still scrambling to explain the extreme differences between his previous work and Mason & Dixon may explain the relative paucity of literary criticism available on the new book to date. .....I would like to take a small first step towards a better understanding of Mason & Dixon by considering Pynchon's conception of history, a theme which is crucial to both it and Gravity's Rainbow. In spite of all the differences, Mason & Dixon remains a scathing indictment of conventional history as true to Pynchon as any of his other works. Furthermore, beyond setting the mood and providing self-parody, the opening is the first of many passages which both link the book to Gravity's Rainbow, and suggest that beneath the happy surface of the novel lie omens of a bleak future. In this context, Mason & Dixon can be read as a meditation on the era in which the technology, philosophy, politics, and economics that plague the twentieth century were just being conceived. For Pynchon, modern history has a destructive trajectory like that of a rocket, a path that begins around the time Mason and Dixon are working on their line, and ends in the nightmarish world of Gravity's Rainbow. .....Despite the fact that most of Pynchon's views remain a matter of constant debate in literary circles, scholars of Gravity's Rainbow seem to agree that Pynchon views history with a harshly skeptical postmodern eye.

The Contributions of Homers Book XXIV :: Greek, Odyssey

Greek literature, in particular, Homer’s Odyssey, remains a masterpiece because of its structure. Additionally, an abundance of wisdom pours forth from its pages. Aristophanes and Aristarchus, two Greek critics, claimed that Homer’s Odyssey ended with the lines, â€Å"Rejoicing in each other, they returned to their bed, the old familiar place they loved so well† (XXIII: 337-338). While, at first glance, Book XXIV appears unnecessary, entirely omitting it leaves Homer’s work unfinished. Book XXIV features a wonderful study of the human condition. The initial encounter between Achilles and Agamemnon appears of little significance, but the overall concept lends importance to the book. Since The Odyssey meditates on the nature of civilization, it corresponds that Homer concludes his epic with a lesson addressing mankind’s inherent qualities. At the beginning of the book, Homer’s character, Achilles, accurately brings to light that life does not happen as planned and, in turn, this becomes a downfall of man. First, Homer calls attention to the human thought process. Achilles tells Agamemnon that â€Å"we thought† a different fate awaited Agamemnon because of his circumstances (XXIV: 25-31). Homer also identifies the tendency to dwell on a different aftermath. He illustrates this claiming that â€Å"if only† Agamemnon died differently, the possibility of glory and fame awaited his son (XXIV: 32-35). Finally, Homer concludes his lesson proclaiming man’s way of thinking as incorrect and â€Å"not so†. He charges Agamemnon â€Å"fated† to whatever destiny befell him (XXIV: 36). Homer also has his character, Amphimedon, highlight another human trait: the inclination to blame others for the outcome of actions, even when knowingly committing a wrongdoing. Homer illustrates this behavior as he writes how Amphimedon charges Penelope with the fault of his death because of her indecision, even after he admits that he made her finish her weaving â€Å"against her will† and â€Å"forced her† (XXIV: 161). Amphimedon also attributes his demise to Odysseus because of trickery. He condemns Odysseus for disguising himself (XXIV: 171-177), although Amphimedon openly admits he attacked Odysseus (XXIV: 178). In trading these stories (XXIV: 1-226), Homer imparts his knowledge on life, responsibility, and accountability. Since writing about the nature of civilization, Homer needs to feature the importance of the family relationship. As a result, the epic necessitates Odysseus’ visit to his father to let Laertes know of his well-being.

Evidence suggests a link between Late Onset

It is a primary degenerative disease of the cerebral cortex. It accounts for over 65% of all dementia cases, commonest cause of dementia. First described by Alzheimer in 1907 and named after him by Kraeplin. It is a progressive brain damage. It destroys brain cells, causing problems with memory, thinking and behavior. The incidence is about 2 – 7 % at ages above 65yrs. This doubles after every additional 5yrs to 8-10% at 80yrs and 30-40% at 90yrs. Rare below 50yrs. This progressive increase in incidence with age has caused significant medical, social and economic concerns in nations with growing number of elderly people.It is the 6th leading cause of death in the United States. It does not have any current cure; treatment available is targeted at presenting symptoms. Pathology Aetiology: The cause is unknown. However there is increased incidence in Down’s syndrome. The risk is also higher with increased free radical formation and failure of antioxidant defenses which ma y contribute to the degeneration [SOD is reduced by 25% in the frontal cortex and hippocampus]. It is occasionally familial. Besides, genetic studies show linkage between Familial AD and loci on chromosomes 1, 14 & 21.Late onset AD is a heterogenous disorder. Evidence suggests a link between Late Onset AD and atherosclerosis, inflammation and cholesterol. Linkage has also been found to a gene locus on chromosome 19q. There is also a strong association between Alzheimer disease and amyloid proteins. In this disease condition, there is a breakdown in some of the synapses that serve the function of information storage, processing and memory; this spreads to other cells and over time, these cells die. Such affected cells are surrounded by plaques and contain characteristic tangles.Macroscopy: Macroscopic examination of the brain shows a variable degree of cortical atrophy with widened sulci. These changes are pronounced in the frontal, temporal and parietal lobes. Hydrocephalus ex vacuo -compensatory ventricular enlargement occurs due to parenchyma loss. Microscopy: Microscopic examination shows senile plaques, neurofibrillary tangles and amyloid angiopathy. All these changes are also found in the brains of elderly because they are features of aging. The pathologic changes seen in this disease begin first in the entorhinal cortex, spread to the hippocampus and isocortex and eventually to the neocortex.Senile plaques: are spherical collections of dilate neuritic processes which surround a central amyloid core. The neuritic processes are also called dystrophic neuritis; are silver-staining and contain paired helical filaments, abnormal mitochondria and synaptic vesicles. The periphery is occupied by microglial cells and astrocytes. The amyloid core is stained by Congo red stain; it contains abnormal proteins predominantly amyloid proteins. There are also diffuse plaques in those with Down syndrome; these lack the neuritic processes seen in senile plaques.Neurofibril lary tangles: bundles of filaments in the cytoplasm of the neurons encircling the nucleus. They are vivid as fibrillary structures with silver staining although they are also basophilic with Hematoxylin and Eosin stain. These structures contain paired helical and straight filaments; the former contain protein tau, Microtubule-associated protein [MAP2] and ubiquitin. The quantities of these tangles correspond to the degree of dementia. Another pathologic feature is Amyloid angiopathy which is an invariable finding in Alzheimer disease associated with amyloid protein.Besides, there is also accumulation of intraneuronal vacuoles in the cytoplasm. Amyloid angiopathy, hirano bodies are mostly within the frontal, parietal and temporal cortex, hippocampus and substantia inominata. There is also marked reduction in Ach, NE, 5-HT. Diagnosis Alzheimer disease usually becomes clinically apparent as insidious impairment of higher mental functions with changes in mood and behaviour. Later progre ssive impairment in orientation, memory, attention and concentration worsens.Eventually patient becomes mute, immobile and severely disturbed. The diagnosis of Alzheimer disease is based on a combination of clinical and pathologic presentations. There are impaired cognitive functions, Psychotic features such as delusion and hallucinations, and depression. The course is relentlessly progressive. Survival rate varies between 8 & 10yrs Management includes Good history, mental state and thorough physical examination. Every patient must be thoroughly evaluated to determine the extent and severity of the disease.Psychometric testing – for confirmation, Mini Mental State Examination ,7-min screening, mental test score, clinical dementia rating, Wechsler adult intelligence scale [WAIS: current IQ to previous I Q] Investigation: these physical investigations are useful to access the physical status of the patient; identify any physical illness and determine co-morbidities. Blood test : full haemogram, Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate, C-Reactive Protein, urea and electrolyte, Fasting and random blood sugar, liver function test, Ca, Vitamin B12, Folate assay, Thyroid function test.Imaging: Chest X-Ray, cranial CT scan, MRI, PET, SPECT, angiography Others: Lumbar Puncture and CSF analysis, brain biopsy for histology Treatment Generally, goal of treatment is to maintain remaining ability as far as possible to preserve dignity, relieve distressing symptoms, slow disease progression & provide care for as long as possible in the familiar home environment. Patients should be made aware of their condition if possible. Inform patient the nature of the disease so that they can adapt favorably to existing conditions.Family support is an important part of the treatment plan: Counseling of the relatives & careers, family support and medical problems of the careers also deserve particular attention. The emphasis here is to encourage family members to show understanding for pati ent’s condition and help them live well with the condition. Behavioral methods that have been suggested include re- enforcement, shaping, desensitization, prompts & other practical aids to cope with forgetfulness. Drug treatment: there is not cure for Alzheimer disease but some drugs have proven useful in patients.These drugs are used based on their mechanism of action and the pathogenesis of the disease. These include: Antioxidants: these are useful to reduce free radicals implicated as etiologic agents for AD. Anticholinesterases, such as neostigmine, physostigmine increase, Ach levels. Antipsychotics are indicated to control paranoid delusions while antidepressants may be indicated when depressive symptoms are prominent. Prevention: recent evidence suggests that participation in cognitively demanding activities in later life can be preventive. Prognosis The changes in Alzheimer disease are irreversible.The disease is terribly progressive and the biological history can rare ly be altered. This makes the prognosis unfavorable. However, palliative measures can be adopted to alleviate the deficit and preserve remaining functions. References Cummings J, Cole G: Alzheimer Disease, JAMA 287:2335, 2002 Braak H, Braak E: Frequency of Stages of Alzheimer-related lesions in different age categories. Neurobiol Aging 18:351; 1997 Braak H, Braak E: Neuropahtological staging of Alzheimer-related changes. Acta Neuropathol [Berl] 82:239; 1991 Mirra SM, Hart MN, Terry RD: Making the diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease. Arch Pathol Lab Med 117:131, 1993

John Proctor: Honorable or Not Essay

Many people believe John Proctor plays role of the dishonorable character in the play of â€Å" The Crucible † . I honestly believe he is actually honorable by his actions of goodness and redemption in the play . He proves this by the rejecting of continuing the affair with Abigail , confessing of his affair to Hale , and dying. In the beginning of the play , there is a scene in which he is with Abigail . Abigail says , â€Å" Give me a word John . A soft word . † . Proctor then says , â€Å" No , no , Abby . That’s done with † ( P 1224 ) . This shows that when John Proctor had the affair , he saw it as a mistake and started to reject Abigail . This shows how he sees his mistake and does anything to prevent himself from committing that error once again . Later , in Act II , Proctor confesses to his affair with Abigail . He confesses to Hale about his affair to ease himself of what he has been keeping to himself for quite some time . This explains how he is honorable by admitting his mistakes . He does not keep something of this dishonorable character to himself . He feels as if he must correct any mistakes he has committed in the past . I believe this action shows the audience that he is honorable to be able to confess the truth to any negative actions . Towards the end , during the final Act , he is just waiting to die . He confessed about his affair with Abigail , in addition , he also did confess to being a witch even though he was not . He believes that he is taking responsibility for his actions and even for those he did not do. Many people believe John Proctor is dishonorable because of his affair , but did he not confess ? Did he not die for something he did not even do ? I believe that his death gave him redemption for his actions with Abigail. I believe John Proctor is a very honorable in his confession of his mistakes in life and the mistakes of others . He has proven his honor throughout different actions in the play.

The Place You Most Loved to Spend Time as a Child.

? Topic: The place you most loved to spend time as a child. Ma Vio's Kitchen Today, nineteen years after the passing of my grandmother, her kitchen looks the same with its walls in the same pastel orange and green she had painted it in so many years ago. The floral patterns that were done by my cousins and I using ochoes that she had cut in half and potatoes which she carved flowers from to make stamps that we gleefully dipped in containers of paint and placed on the wall hap-hazardly to form various patterns. I remembered her being so delighted in the end product that I don't think there was a neighbour, friend or visitor that my grandmother didn't boast to about her beautiful kitchen wall hat was so artfully decorated by her clearly talented grand children. I look at those walls to day and sometimes laugh at what persons out side of her family may have thought of her walls of art that anyone could have see were decorated by children all under the age of eleven. Walls that have been laquered to preserve what Ma Vio, as she was lovingly called by everyone, considered a ‘masterpiece that not even the most renowned of painters could have done with such perfection'. My fondest memories however, are not of the many different art projects that Ma Vio encouraged us into doing on her huge kitchen table but of the aromas drifting out of that little haven off of her livingroom. I remembered how she used to have these large bottles filled with all different types of homemade treats lined off on top of the kitchen counter†¦.. ed mangoes, stewed tamarind, tulum, benee balls, sugar cake, fudge you name it Ma Vio made it. Boy! Don't even get me started on her bread bin that never seemed to run out of mouth watering cakes and pastries†¦. coconut tarts, lemon bread, drops, peanut butter cookies and my favourite banana bread. Mmmhmmm †¦. I can smell it all now†¦. fresh out of the oven. Her pound cake and whole grain bread were what m y brother used to call ‘the bestest in all of Trinidad and Tobago', you couldn't find a bakery for miles with anything that good. You ever had homemade bread where you felt as if you had anything at all with it you'd spoil the taste? That's how everyone felt about Ma Vio's bread. It's good when accompanied by a filling but it's best when eaten by itself. Ma Vio's Kitchen smelled like christmas morning almost everyday as she was always busy making or baking something. Her kitchen was my own little ‘snack heaven' where everything that came from there seemed to taste extra good. By Havilanna Davidson

On Campus or Off Campus Living

On Campus or Off Campus Living If you are a new student and you want to choose between living on campus and living off campus, here some differences between them which may help you in your decision. The first difference is the cost. Normally, off campus housing is more expensive than on campus housing because of the additional charges. When you live off campus, you should pay for your own Internet access, furniture, and kitchen and bath necessities in addition to the rent, so it is a high initial cost.However, on campus housing does not need most of these charges because they are already paid with the rent. The second difference is transportation. If you live on campus, you can easily walk to your classes, libraries, and cafeterias. You do not have to waste your time and money to ride buses or trains or to drive your car to go to the campus. In contrast, you should ride buses or trains or drive your car to go to the campus when you live off campus which means wasting money and time i n addition to the traffic issues if you are living in a crowded area.On campus housing and off campus housing also differ in privacy. On campus housing usually means a shared bedroom, bathroom, and kitchen. It is also means a limited and sometimes not quiet place to study because you share it with others. On the other hand, off campus housing means you own your bedroom, bathroom, and kitchen and also means there is a large enough and quiet enough place to study. The other difference is the social life.Living on campus allows you to make more friends and meet more people than living off campus and also keeps you in touch with any activities that happen on campus, while living off campus probably does not allow you to make more friends or keep in touch with most campus activities. All in all, there are many differences between living on campus and living off campus, so when you want to choose between living on and off campus, classify these differences to advantages and disadvantages depending on your situation. After that, choose which is more advantageous than the other. .

Examine the links between poverty and literacy in the developing world Essay

Examine the links between poverty and literacy in the developing world - Essay Example From here, we can now try to discuss the link between the two in a deeper fashion. This paper will revolve around the relationship between poverty and literacy. It will discuss on how literacy can be used to reduce the poverty level in the developing world. On the other hand, it will deal with how lack of literacy can lead rise in poverty level in developing world. Abdi and Cleghorn (2005), state that developing countries are known to be the poorest countries in the world. These countries are going through many economic issues. The countries have poor infrastructure, lack of clean water, high mortality rates, poor governance etc. They are known to have the largest number of the illiterate people. Majority of the illiterate people are women. The question is, why do these countries have the largest number of illiterate people? One of the possible answers is that they lack good education sectors that can provide the relevant education systems. Lack of funds is the main reason for the poor education systems. This increases the level of illiteracy. Literacy is one of the tools that can be used for economic, political, cultural and social drives. This means that if this tool is not incorporated well, then the poverty level will rise. It is, therefore, true that literacy can be used to eliminate poverty levels in the developing world. This can only t ake place if people are educated well. Children should be given freedom to learn in order to reduce the illiteracy level in the near future thus, reduced poverty (Abdi &Cleghorn, 2005, p.45). Developing country like India is known to be poor not because of lack of resources but it is due the corruption that takes place in the government. When the government allocates resources for the education sector, these resources are stolen by most of the government officials. These officials are supposed to ensure that the resources reached education sectors but they are lost on the way. The education system becomes

Groupthing theory research paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Groupthing theory - Research Paper Example Therefore, Janis’ theory is often reconsidered and complemented by the modern researchers and scientists, who are focused on pros and cons of groupthink. Theory reflections in literature In accordance with Cottam, Dietz-Uhler, Mastors, and Preston (2004) it should be noted that groupthink does not belong to critical thinking based on a detailed discussion of the given problem or relevant issues. There is no process of group argumentation analysis and there is no proper analysis and evaluation of ideas validity testing. One of the main drawbacks of group thinking is the absence of an individual contribution to critical thinking. People think together and very often their ideas are mixed, some of the group members can feel frustrated, confused or even misconceive their initial ideas. Therefore, it is relevant to fight for individuality of thinking. This kind of thinking can be considered in case of solidarity of thinking among group thinkers (Cottam, Dietz-Uhler, Mastors, and Pr eston, 2004). Cohesiveness is the required condition for proper functioning of group thinking in an effective and efficient manner. It should be also noted that effective groupthink is based on two other conditions, such as ideal group structure and a favorable environment for groupthink. The group structure can be endangered in case of a lack of access to information or inability to reflect various opinions. In case there is a self-concentrated leader in the group, he can hardly establish favorable conditions for a sound development of ideas among other members. Groupthink occurs, when the members of the group are sure that their common decision is right and do not listen to any other ideas or consider them wrong (Ahlfinger & Esser, 2001). In the result of such a reservation of thinking, the members of the group become close-minded and they are not focused on their risky actions. Moreover, in case a group feels external pressure in order to reach conformity, they cannot confirm the unity and soundness of their thinking as well. Therefore, it is evident that groupthink is a challenging matter and a complex stage of decision-making process. In accordance with Ahlfinger & Esser (2001) Janis identified other important facts of groupthink. The first fact is that group members do not accept any alternatives; the second fact is that there are no clearly set goals of decision-making. They are not focused on potential risks of their decisions or cannot identify their preferred choice. A lack of information or inability to process information correctly or develop future contingency plans are also intimidating factors for a proper groupthink (Park 1990, Rogelberg, 1999). In case these facts are evident, there will be a poor outcome of decision-making process. These researchers underline that there are many other factors undermining effective groupthink, which should be studied properly (Shmidt, Zapalski, and Toole, 2005). In case a biased leader is present in the group, he may lead to imbalanced groupthink, because this leader will produce the main decisions and ideas. In accordance with another suggestion, a lack of conformity among group members will cause a poor decision making process. There are two main kinds of leaders, such as nonpromotional leaders and promotional leaders (Kim, 2001). In the former case, the leader did not exert much influence on the members of the group and did not foster his ideas. In the second case, the leader

Ethics essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Ethics - Essay Example The importance of finding answer to this question is just as, if not more, important than trying to establish and enforce civility and ethics in the workplace. Defining values that support leadership is an ongoing process and requires critical insight and effort on our part. The task of a leader is to establish excellence rather than commanding it. An organization’s mission should be based on our values and beliefs rather than alteration of our values and beliefs because of the mission of organization. Character lays the basis of leadership. Character reflects in a leader’s courage to make decisions from this perspective. Organizations acquire stability from our values. Our purpose must be stable so that we are better able to deal with the unstable environment. Our moral values enable us to always display responsible performance. Performance responsibility exists in people’s moral values, dignity, and ethics obtained from them. Values discussed in the article inc lude openness, equality, liberty, respect for others, self-reliance, and responsibility of behavior. Openness has become a norm in our society. Openness implies that we are self-sufficient and do not need others which in effect paradoxically leads us to a closing end. Despite the immense emphasis placed on the sustenance and enforcement of these values in the American society, these values fail to lay an adequate explanation of the conflict between individualism and collectivism. Nevertheless, the collective nature of ethical value is still promoted by the democratic ideal since it highlights the concerns for others more than the concerns for us. I consent with the author that establishment of excellence is even more important for a leader than commanding excellence. When a leader commands excellence rather than establishing it, he/she might be successful in achieving his/her objectives, but a holistic change that incorporates effective leadership skills in everybody down the line c annot be made unless excellence is established. I also consent with the author that organization’s mission should be driven by the society’s morals and values. This is fundamental to the preservation of our culture, trends, and tradition and for an organization to function ethically in the society. In my personal practice, I see myself as a transformational leader who intends to inculcate the desire, urge, and motivation to bring about a positive change in the followers rather than telling them what to do all the time. I am a strong believer in every individual’s creative abilities and I believe that given the appropriate chance, everybody is able to contribute to the development of a positive change in the society. This responsibility fundamentally rests with the leader because to a large extent, the way followers behave and approach a matter is depicted by the style of leadership adopted by the leader. I do acknowledge that there is confusion about values. Par ticularly in an age where our society has become more multicultural than ever before, values are bound to differ. So in my career when I am caught in a situation where values contrast, I as a leader would see which values promise the achievement of the most desirable and beneficial results. I shall give society’s well-being as a whole priority over the well-being of the society because this would enable me to align the interests of the

The role of advertising and branding within the laptop industry and Dissertation

The role of advertising and branding within the laptop industry and its effects on consumer purchase decision in Leeds(united ki - Dissertation Example Therefore, the combined role of advertising and branding appears to be more visible in case of most of the products. Liu (2007) has found a positive relation between branding and consumer purchasing decisions for laptops. Significant level of brand awareness for a specific brand will improve the purchasing behaviour for that laptop brand because it influences the consumer decision making process especially on the information search stage of customer (Liu, 2007). The effectiveness of branding in laptop industry is evident from the leading sales of branded laptops. Development of Dell in Malaysia had positive influence of brand image of Dell in Malaysia as its enhanced brand recognition therefore; companies like Acer and HP also have a chance to compete with Dell by increasing their brand recognition (Ghajarzadeh, 2010). Laptop manufacturers usually use informative advertising to make the consumer aware of the product specifications thereby, influencing the purchasing decision of consu mers. PC companies adopt advertising media to influence high-income households and top companies are involved in higher than average advertising and generate higher than average revenues (Goeree, 2004).

Argument speech Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Argument speech - Essay Example Lets commence with the strongest argument which supports the claim that technology is detrimental to a child’s creativity as outlined above. 1. It is very easy and simple now days to write about an idea unlike in the past where the idea had to be thoughtful. Today, a student or child undertaking a creative writing task will look for an idea, search it online and then read the relevant articles before writing his own. This reduces the thoughtful process (Noddings, 2013). 2. Batten & Russell (1995) stated that the use of technology elements such as spell checkers and grammar checkers has made students to be scared of performing handwritten tasks since these tools are absent to correct or check their mistakes. Thus, students or children who have developed this dependency will be reluctant to use a pen since they will are scared or afraid of failing. Transition: The use of technology should be minimized since it leads to poor development of critical thinking skills and low confidence in handwritten tasks among students and children. Further, there is another significant reason as to how technology reduces creativity among children and students. 2. Playing enables children’s braid brains to develop properly. Lack of play and the use of technology reduce brain development. This limits the ability of a child since poorly developed brains are less efficient when it comes to creativity (Ginsburg, 2007) c. (impact statement) Although technology is vital for enhancing learning and creativity in children or students, its draw backs outweigh its benefits. Children and students need to get first hand engagement through play and interactions with real people or things. First hand interactions stimulate brain development and learning leading to an improvement in creativity. Transition: Children should minimize the use of technology since it tend s to reduce their creativity. Rather, they should interact more with people in addition to playing. Below

I will post all of information in word Assignment

I will post all of information in word - Assignment Example In addition, money is not capable of purchasing intelligence, admiration and or respect for any individual who does not have the capacity to hold these characteristics even in presence of more than enough money. Similarly, money does not attempt to buy brains for individuals who have powerful position in return for service because the individual mostly ends up frustrating him or herself to below the level of those who are perceivably weakened by the status of the individual’s money (Rand 101). Conversely, d’Anconia argues that although money does not purchase the necessary human characteristics in life, money is a rootless living power that acts as a means of survival. The kind of treatment that money gives on individuals depends on the source of livelihood that further translates into the anticipated life. In fact, what matters most is the means of achieving the money and the continuous engagement that tool of exchange has on the life of an individual. For instance, in dividuals are said to do odd jobs just to get a particular amount of money (Rand 103). In light of this, money would suddenly bring forth hatred from its users, the men, immediately it does not concur with the wants of the individuals. Many men are for the perception that money exists to be enjoyed even when the individuals have not genuinely acquired it. It is said not to give virtue nor redeem the vices of men (Rand 104). It is worth mentioning that, every man loves money to the extent of knowing its nature. In addition, d’Anconia argues that individuals should be aware of the fact that money is a continuous creation of the power that is within men, and the level of trading to outfit the best efforts amongst other men who are also trading to satisfy their needs and wants. For instance, those who love money are individuals who have the will to work for it as they know that they deserve to have it in regard to their effort. For this reason then, individuals who continuously d amn money are argued to have gotten it in a manner that is not upright. Thus, d’Anconia advises men to desist from fellow men who continually tell them that money is evil (Rand 103). Needless to say, the society needs money to thrive. However, there must be a strict law that govern those that have money from exploiting those that do not have the medium. In the same way, the law must be present in society to make sure that men who just sit in idleness waiting for fellow men to work and acquire money, and then come forth to deprive them are dealt with accordingly. For instance, every time destroyers appear among men, they are said to begin by destroying money before hurting them and reducing them to men with no money (Rand 104). In a general sense, d’Anconia argues that men must be in a position to contemplate that money is the root of good and not evil. Otherwise if they continue to perceive money a sourced of evil, then they risk having continuous destruction in their life. In the event that money is no longer a viable tool where men can clearly use to deal with one another, the same men are bond to become tools of fellow men. According to d’

Scenarios week 4 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Scenarios week 4 - Essay Example The situation presented in the case of Glenbrook South High School is normal in most schools, where students with demonstrable capabilities end up failing their exams. After the results that Joanie gets, despite having spent time delivering the content as effective as she could, there is need to come up with a plan that can facilitate effective learning, application of the content and responding to questions in an exam situation. Firstly, in order to facilitate effective learning, Joanie can consider diversifying the teaching and learning style that she uses. One of these ways is to let students do the teaching. (Mwenda, 2012). For instance, a student can be assigned a single theme and allowed some time to carry an in-depth research then come and share the same with the rest of the class. In essence, learners grasp more what they have actively participated in than what has been imposed on them from the teacher. (Mwenda, 2012). Secondly, Joanie can consider engaging the class in group work through discussions and simulations. By doing this, learners will have an opportunity to bring out what they initially thought was right when it was wrong. (Mwenda, 2012). In addition to this, the levels of confidence will be built as the learners correct each other in addition to having the freedom to share what they could have dismissed as irrelevant ideas. Further to this, low achievers can have an opportunity to learn how their well performing colleagues manage to do it. (Mwenda, 2012). In order to have the learners improve in their performance in exams, there are a number of considerations that can be included in Joanie’s teaching plans. Firstly, since the questions that the students failed were to do with memory or remembrance, a catchy and memorable plan should be in place. For instance, apart from being given a chance to read the text on their own, the teacher can organize a video show or an acted presentation of the text in order to have the students remember

What Is the Best Motivational Package for Philadelphia Co. to Enhance Research Paper

What Is the Best Motivational Package for Philadelphia Co. to Enhance Employee Productivity - Research Paper Example The present study would analyze the case of Philadelphia Company with regards t addressing the issue of lack of motivation among the employees of the organization. The study would mainly be based on a primary research that would try to collect primary data from the customers, employee as well as the managers of the organization in order to understand the underlying reasons behind the lack of motivation among the employees of the organization. The results of the survey would be used to suggest plausible recommendations for the organization. Implication of strategies like a 360 degree appraisal and initiating free and fair appraisal apart from career development programs like training and development can help in restoring and enhancing the motivation levels of the employees of the organization. Introduction The age of competition has necessitated an urgent need for business organizations to go beyond analyzing the sales figures and business strategies but also ensure organization excel lence. In this regard the role of human resource management becomes utmost important as human resources are the most valuable assets for any organization. It has also been stated in numerous researches that an efficient human resource base should be essentially motivated so as to ensure job satisfaction.These aspects involve considerable importance as de-motivated and unsatisfied employees’ leads to high turnover rates and also lead to inefficiencies in the organization. In order to ensure greater productivity it is necessary to ensure that workers and employees are consistently rewarded. It is also very necessary to ensure that there is career development of the employees. The present study would analyze the reasons behind the de-motivation of the employees of Philadelphia Co that is a housekeeping company and has a small employee base of which most of the workers are from other nations like Sri Lanka, Indonesia and Philippines. The study would try to analyze the reasons beh ind their de-motivation and would also suggest plausible recommendations in order to ensure better productivity and increased motivation among the workers. Research Question The research question for the present study is stated below: To analyze the effects of motivation of workers on organization’s productivity To analyze the reasons behind the de motivation of workers at Philadelphia Co To find possible solutions towards ensuring motivation of employees at Philadelphia Co The three research questions would try to first analyze the effects of employee motivation on the levels of productivity of the employees. It would also try to analyze the possible reasons for the de-motivation of the employees by conducting an in depth analysis of the research question and finally the research would also try to find possible solutions for imparting greater motivation among the employees of the organization so as to help generate competitive advantage. Procedure and Methodology The researc h methodology would be a mix of primary and secondary research techniques that would help in analyzing the research questions and also enable in the formulation of plausible recommendations that would help in ensuring organizational excellence. The secondary research would try to analyze the research question as to the effects of employee de-motivation on the job satisfaction levels and the impact on the overall

Halloween Night to Prom Night Essay Example for Free

Halloween Night to Prom Night Essay Hepatitis A is inflammation (irritation and swelling) of the liver from the hepatitis A virus. See also: * Hepatitis * Hepatitis A vaccine * Hepatitis B * Hepatitis C Causes, incidence, and risk factors The hepatitis A virus is found mostly in the stools and blood of an infected person about 15 45 days before symptoms occur and during the first week of illness. You can catch hepatitis A if: * You eat or drink food or water that has been contaminated by stools (feces) containing the hepatitis A virus (fruits, vegetables, shellfish, ice, and water are common sources of the hepatitis A virus) * You come in contact with the stool or blood of a person who currently has the disease * A person with hepatitis A does not wash his or her hands properly after going to the bathroom and touches other objects or food * You participate in sexual practices that involve oral-anal contact About 3,600 cases of hepatitis A are reported each year. Because not everyone has symptoms with hepatitis A infection, many more people are infected than are diagnosed or reported. Risk factors include: * International travel, especially to Asia or South or Central America * IV drug use * Living in a nursing home or rehabilitation center * Working in a health care, food, or sewage industry Other common hepatitis virus infections include hepatitis B and hepatitis C. Hepatitis A is the least serious and mildest of these diseases. The other hepatitis infections may become chronic illnesses, but hepatitis A does not become chronic. There is no specific treatment for hepatitis A. Rest is recommended when the symptoms are most severe. People with acute hepatitis should avoid alcohol and any substances that are toxic to the liver, including acetaminophen (Tylenol). Fatty foods may cause vomiting, because substances from the liver are needed to digest fats. Fatty foods are best avoided during the acute phase. The virus does not remain in the body after the infection has gone away. Over 85% of people with hepatitis A recover within 3 months. Nearly all patients get better within 6 months. There is a low risk of death, usually among the elderly and persons with chronic liver disease. Prevention The following tips can help reduce your risk of spreading or catching the virus: * Always wash your hands thoroughly after using the restroom and when you come in contact with an infected persons blood, stools, or other bodily fluid. * Avoid unclean food and water. The virus may spread more rapidly through day care centers and other places where people are in close contact. Thorough hand washing before and after each diaper change, before serving food, and after using the restroom may help prevent such outbreaks. If you have recently been exposed to hepatitis A and have not had hepatitis A before or have not received the hepatitis A vaccine series, ask your doctor or nurse about receiving either immune globulin or the hepatitis A vaccine. Common reasons why you may need to receive one or both of these include: * You live with someone who has hepatitis A * You recently had sexual contact with someone who has hepatitis A * You recently shared illegal drugs, either injected or noninjected, with someone who has hepatitis A * You have had close personal contact over a period of time with someone who has hepatitis A * You have eaten in a restaurant where food or food handlers were found to be infected or contaminated with hepatitis A Vaccines that protect against hepatitis A infection are available. The vaccine begins to protect 4 weeks after receiving the first dose. The 6- to 12-month booster is required for long-term protection. See: Hepatitis A vaccine Travelers should take the following precautions: Travelers should take the following precautions: * Avoid dairy products. * Avoid raw or undercooked meat and fish. * Beware of sliced fruit that may have been washed in contaminated water. Travelers should peel all fresh fruits and vegetables themselves. * Do not buy food from street vendors. * Get vaccinated against hepatitis A (and possibly hepatitis B) if traveling to countries where outbreaks of the disease occur. * Use only carbonated bottled water for brushing teeth and drinking. (Remember that ice cubes can carry infection.) * If no water is available, boiling water is the best method for eliminating hepatitis A. Bringing the water to a full boil for at least 1 minute generally makes it safe to drink. * Heated food should be hot to the touch and eaten right away.