Monday, September 30, 2019

Koreatown

Koreatown, L. A. Four miles SSW from the iconic Hollywood sign and just about the physical center of the City of Angels is Koreatown. Koreatown has the largest South Korean population outside of the country itself. With such a high concentration of these richly cultured peoples came many korean style restaurants and other eateries. Though in recent years Koreatown’s Korean population has declined to about 30% of the total population, it is still considered the prime place to enjoy a good dim sum or kimchi.There is a little more than a thousand Korean owned businesses in K-Town and a very good majority of those are eateries. Being known for its nightlife, most of K-Town’s eateries are bars and norebangs (karaoki rooms). â€Å"A night out in what insiders call K-Town might begin with dinner or warm-up drinks and nibbling at a stylish cafe with giant video screens, then proceed to dancing at an exclusive nightclub or singing at a karaoke †music studio† until d awn† (Navarro).Singing in norebangs is a widely appreciated pass-time in the Korean community and is usually accompanied with alcohol and appetizers. This pass-time is never done alone and it is usually done in large groups for any occasion. The alcohol of choice being makgeolli, a fermented rice wine, is usually associated with the cooking and munching of small strips of sweet and crispy pork belly. Small groups of people can be seen around a table drinking, cooking the snack and conversing.Another widely appreciated restaurant type brought over from the Koreas, is the Korean BBQ. Essentially, it is a cook-it-yourself restaurant; the cooks prepare the dishes to be cooked and then hand them out to the customer to be cooked right at their own grill in the middle of the table. This allows the customer to cook the meat to their desired taste and gives more time to converse. Interestingly, it doesn’t have to be eaten with a utensil; usually there would be a plate of large l ettuce leaves.It is very common to tear off a piece of the leaf and cup it in one hand while the other picks up a piece of meat with chopsticks and puts it on the leaf. If there is anything else to put on it, like a slice of mushroom, it is put on top, the leaf is rolled up and popped in the mouth. The most popular food in Korean culture is kimchi. It is made primarily from fermented napa cabbage, spicy red pepper powder, and various other vegetables and spices. In most asian cultures, there are many parts to a meal; kimchi is usually a side-dish.The ingredients are quite cheap and the recipe is easy to follow. In low-income families, kimchi is a larger part of the meal. It is the perfect food for these families because it can easily be made in bulk and it can be kept for up to a month in the refrigerator. Kimchi is a staple of Korean society. Korea brought over a very cultured people that are very family and food involved. Food is a very important part of the Korean culture and com munity as a whole. Work Cited Navarro, Mireya. â€Å"It's Koreatown, Jake. † The New York Times. The New York Times, 08 Aug. 2004. Web. 3 Nov. 2012.

Sunday, September 29, 2019

Learning Media Assessments

Assessment is a tool used in education and it is an important component of learning. The primary purpose of assessment is to improve student's learning, I administered four types of assessments to Camila, a 2 and a half years old Hispanic girl. The assessments administered to Camila were: Denver II, checklist, anecdotal, and interest survey. Denver II: Physical The Denver II assessment was designed to monitor the development of infants and preschool-aged children; it includes the screening of the four domains, Personal-social: which is getting along with people and caring for personal needs, Fine Motor-Adaptive: this includes eye hand coordination, manipulation of small objects, and problem solving, Language: it includes hearing, understanding, and using language, and Gross motor: it includes sitting, walking, jumping, and overall large muscle movement in general. The scoring is as follow: P= pass- child successfully performs item, F= Fail- child does not successfully perform item. NO= No opportunity- the child has not had the chance to perform the item, or report from caregiver is that child does not do the item due to restrictions from caregiver or other reasons, and R= Refusal- the child refuses to attempt the item, this can be minimized just by asking the child to do the item rather than asking. Purpose: The purpose of the Denver II assessment is to screen children from 1 to 6 years of age for possible developmental problems or issues, to confirm suspected problems with an objective measure, and to monitor children at risk for developmental problems. The assessment was administered with the mother participation; with the gross motor part done outside. I tried to make both of them comfortable; to do the fine motor screening, Camila sat at the floor and her mother sat beside her. I explained to the mother that the child was not expected to pass all the items, but we were going to allow the child to manipulate the items to be used to feel comfortable by the time the activity was done. A set of blocks were given to Camila and she was told to make a tower with eight blocks. Camila carefully piled ten blocks making sure all the blocks were straight. She made three other towers with the other blocks. Camila imitated a vertical line.Camila, her mother and I went outside to do the gross motor part, Camila's mother showed Camila how to jump a broad jump and throw the ball over her head, she then encouraged Camila to imitate her; three trials were given to do the broad jump, the first two times scoring a F and the third a P. Camila's mother and I praised Camila for her efforts in doing the tasks.To minimized bias, I performed the assessment in Spanish; I explained the tasks we were going to work to Camila's mother before doing them. I gave her a copy of the assessment for her to read the items at the same time I was asking them. I asked the mother first about each item then we asked Camila to do each task to confirm her development.Checklist: Social and EmotionalA checklist is a tool for identifying the presence or absence of conceptual knowledge, skills, or behaviors. Checklists are tools that state specific criteria and allow teachers and students to gather information that can provide an informal profile of each child. Checklists also help teachers to make judgements about what students know and can do in relation to the outcomes. Checklists allow teachers to consistently monitor and document progress and focus extra attention on the items that mark deficiencies in development growth. The checklist may assess domains such as fine and gross motor, expressive and receptive language, intellectual, social-emotional, and self-help skills. These checklists provide information about what a child can and cannot do in each developmental area. Teachers can use this information to help set goals for a child and plan activities that help the child progress. An example of a developmental checklist, Observation Checklist for Teachers, is at the end of this chapter. Other checklists provide teachers with a record of what learning centers the children choose, or which materials they use most often. They are helpful in assuring, for example, that children who spend most of their free time in the art area are encouraged to explore other activity centers. The teacher can help the child make this transition by setting up a favorite art activity in another part of the room, such as painting clouds and the sky for a castle that will be built with blocks and small boxes Purpose: The purpose of checklists is to identify and record student's, skills, strategies, attitudes, and behaviors that are necessary for effective learning. Checklists can also be used to communicate a student's learning to his/her parents.The assessment was administered during several days of observation during play and circle time. I observed Camila's choices and decisions when she was playing in the pretend area. Camila played along other children and imitated what another girl did when playing with a small doll. During circle time she waited for her turn to hold the ball when playing a game. Bias was minimized when I wrote only the facts and focus on Camila's strengths Observation: Anecdotal record: CognitiveAn anecdote is an account of an event in a child's day; the record of this event can be detailed or brief. In other words is a short story detailing the facts of an event in the child's day. These short reports described in a factual way, the incident, its context, and what was said or done by the participant. On most cases anecdotes focus on very simple, everyday interactions among children, adults and children, as well as materials and children in the environment. Purpose: Anecdotes capture the richness and complexity of the moment as children interact with one another and with materials. These records of child behavior and learning accumulated over the time enhance the teacher's understanding of the individual child as patterns or profiles begin to emerge. Behavior change can be tracked and documented and placed in the child's portfolio resulting in suggestions for future observations, curriculum planning and student or parent conferences. The anecdotes or observations were done during center time; my observations were done of what Camila did and what she said while she was playing with the blocks and the farm animals. Camila built a tower of eight blocks and called the teacher to see it, she then made other small towers and put the animals on the top of each tower; she clapped her hands when she saw the results. Camila also used other blocks to make a little cage for the baby animals.Bias was minimized when I wrote only the facts and quotes she used when playing. I also focused only on Camila's strengths.Interest survey:Interest surveys provide valuable information from students that teachers can use to establish and maintain positive relationships; provide information of the students' individual needs and preferences. Purpose: The purpose of the interest surveys is to help teachers in choosing the appropriate materials and instructional decisions based on the expressed interests for each student. Students are more likely to be engaged if the instruction connects to their interest. I started the survey with Camila by showing several books; Camila looked at the books and grabbed the book of Brown Bear. I let Camila look at the book for a while and then showed her the survey and explained to her what she needed to do. I covered the survey and uncover just the question I was asking at the time. I also provided the stickers to use one at a time for her to choose the answer she wanted. Bias was minimized when the survey was done in Spanish and Camila was let to put on a sticker on each answer she chose. Camila took her time to put the sticker on the desired picture and I let her take her time looking at the survey's question and pictures.

Saturday, September 28, 2019

4 Personality Types Taught by Angels

The four personality types taught by angels are different because each person has different personality, personality, character, ability, sensibility, so that each person succeeds. Therefore, successful methods can be widespread, but you need to consider the rules of success depending on the type of different personality. However, many authors of books on How to Succeed will create success rules only based on the type of personality. If a person has the same personality type as the author of How to Succeed, that person may like the successful way of that author. Have you heard that someone is a person of type A? Have you ever thought what they mean? In fact, there are four different personality types that fall into the main categories. They are called type A, B, C, D. Each personality type has specific features and characteristics that distinguish it from other types. People of personality type A tend to concentrate on competition. They like to attain greatness and they do not like i t when they need to spend a lot of time to experience success. People with this character often tackle multiple projects at the same time in many cases. Because, in most cases, it needs to be seen as a winner. They sometimes feel unsafe. Especially, in order not to be regarded as a success and to have the opportunity to achieve the goal quickly, we will go to a breakthrough on a regular basis. The four personality types taught by angels are different because each person has different personality, personality, character, ability, sensibility, so that each person succeeds. Therefore, successful methods can be widespread, but you need to consider the rules of success depending on the type of different personality. However, many authors of books on How to Succeed will create success rules only based on the type of personality. If a person has the same personality type as the author of How to Succeed, that person may like the successful way of that author. When you know what you are look ing for, there are four easy-to-find consumers. There are six types of fiscal expenditure, combined with four personality types, you can use a powerful collection tool as a collector. As a good collector tells you, knowledge is the most powerful tool in the collection. Analysis of collections and sales Consumers look for facts and data. People with this type of personality will study facilities before they touch. They are not those who decide to pay the debt. They may first check the debt to the customer or insurance department. Prior to making a decision or deciding a decision, we will focus on validating information and selecting it.

Friday, September 27, 2019

Public Opinion & Responding to Crisis Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Public Opinion & Responding to Crisis - Essay Example The suicide at McKinley middle school is a report on the saddening death of a school teenager who took his own life away. Kenny McKinley who was laid to rest on September, 28th 2010, made the fatal attempt on his life while in school. A point to note is that suicidal signs or symptoms had been noted in him but as usual, they were not taken seriously. This occurrence brings about the big question about how seriously persons’ should view a crisis and take combative measures to make sure that it does not lead to a negative occurrence. It is obvious that if at all the people around Kenny were swift enough in taking measures to deal with the suicidal symptoms in him, the chances of him taking away his own life would have been reduced. This is because a positive step had already been made toward averting the situation, the crisis had been identified (Kowalski, 2010). All they had to do is seek ways of mitigating the risks associated with the crisis at hand. The same situation is als o exemplified in the case where Teddy Molina, a student from Flour Bluff High School, took away his life with a hunting rifle after what reports describe as a hounding experience from bullies on him. The two cases are similar in that people around Molina were aware of his experiences and how much they were affecting him but it is sad to note that no action was taken to avert the crisis. Communication is the conveyance or imparting of information, knowledge, ideas, feelings or news from one party to another. Therefore, it is a very important tool that can be used to make or break a situation. From the point of view of a crisis, communication can effectively be used to avert the possible occurrence of an unfavorable event. It is important to note, however, that, communication should be made in a good manner for it to bring out positive results because improper communication can even make situations worse. I believe that if at all proper communication would have been done to address Ke nny’s suicidal symptoms, there are chances that the problems that led to his decision of taking away his own life would have been solved in a way. During that time, the people who were close to him should have reported this to someone who could offer help to him, like the school counselor, instead of assuming these signs. A responsible person would have determined the gravity of his problem and sought ways to see sense and solve the problem with the deceased and help him overcome the suicidal feelings. A constant follow –up on him would also have helped him know that there were people on his side who were willing to help him face his troubles and would have helped him feel loved and protected. Most of such like cases are mainly caused by depression, a state in which a person feels dejected and sometimes hopeless and inadequate. It is a state at which people can do very destructive things not only to the people around them but even to themselves. A person in this condit ion is in a crisis and should be handled with utmost care to make sure that they do not come to the point of taking destructive measures to try solving their issues. A properly thought out plan to deal with crisis is important in any institution, including schools. If McKinley Middle School had employed such a plan earlier, we would not have been talking of such cases as

Thursday, September 26, 2019

The Crusades Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

The Crusades - Research Paper Example Islam from present day Pakistan to Morocco and from the base of Turkey down to East Africa. This made Islam a threat to Christianity since there was a chance that Muslim invaders will spread their Jihads into European lands that were considered Christian at that time.Carl Erdmann points out that 11th Century reforms in the Church were the main cause of the First Crusade sanctioned by the Catholic Church. This is because the reform sought to purify all elements of the European society including warriors and militants. He, therefore, explains the Crusades as an attempt by the Catholic Church to divert violence and military force towards 'sacred' activities. In March 1095, Pope Urban II sent troops to go the Eastern Church which had its headquarters at Byzantium to help them defend themselves against a Muslim invasion. In the Council of Clermont a few months after that, in November 1095, Pope Urban II called for Christian armies and warriors to be sent to Jerusalem to re-take the city o f Jerusalem and establish a Christian state there.From an analysis of the activities of the first Crusade sanctioned by Pope Urban II, it appears that there was the need for the Pope to defend the borders of Christian Europe. This seems to be a natural course of action any religious leader would have taken against the Muslim expansion. The Crusades were successful and the Christians took Jerusalem in July 1099. They set up the Syrian and Palestine Christian states and took the island of Cyprus as a security point.

Germany Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words - 1

Germany - Essay Example Germany 41). Their speech is to the point and each and every word is meaningful. Differences Germans are very hard working people. They believe in doing high quality work and that too within the deadline. Germans place huge emphasis on timely completion of work. If they do some work rightly, but that is not done within the deadline, they do not think that they have done justice to their job. They do everything wholeheartedly and try to deliver their maximum within the time assigned. If a German commits to do some work by a certain time, he almost promises that it will be done within that time. Their commitment is of great business value. In comparison to them, Americans are not as punctual. Although a vast majority of Americans value time a lot, yet timely completion of task is not as important to them as it if for the Germans. Germans are more hospitable and respectful towards the aged people as compared to Americans. Works Cited: â€Å"Truth and Duty.† Culture Smart! Germany . pp. 41-42.

Wednesday, September 25, 2019

The Broadway Caf Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

The Broadway Caf - Research Paper Example This paper tends to discuss certain market strategies that can be effectively applied in Broadway Cafe so as to bring it back to the mainstream of profitable businesses. Scope of e-business In order to operate the activities of Broadway Cafe in an efficient manner, it is necessary to design a good website that would provide customers with relevant information regarding the Cafe and its products/services. The website must provide 24 hours live support to customers with intent to satisfy their needs. The firm can also collect customer feedback which is an essential asset of any types of business for further expansion (MBD 1, e-business). The firm must heed genuine concern to cultural sentiments while dealing with diverse customer groups. At the same time the relevance of personal opinions have to be scrutinized well prior to decision making. For instance, an anonymous person’s feedback shows that he did not like the presence of the children at the Cafe. The opinion obviously dep ends on the individual’s social outlook which is of little relevance to practical side of the business. If the company bans children from the Cafe in order to meet an individual’s content, the firm will lose a large group of family customers. The website must be attractive enough to retain the customers as well as to attract new prospects. According to the report of Yankee group, website traffic is the main factor which determines the effectiveness of the company’s website (MBD 2, Competitive advantage). However, large degree of website traffic would not necessarily ensure large sales. Therefore, company must gradually assess the income generated from website traffic along with the number of acquisition of new customers and reduction in customer care calls so as to determine the success or failure of the website. The above discussed points are the primary requirements for a business website; whereas the actual business expansion necessitates some innovative conc epts. Firstly, the company must provide e-business facilities to their customer so that they can order required products through online transaction (e-business). People today wish to have immediate access to products and services in minimum time at less expense. Since the credit card using prepaid delivery system has simplified business transactions across the globe, this feasibility has been identified as one of the competitive advantages of modern firms. Customer retention In addition, Broadway Cafe should also arrange supply vehicles with employees in order to deliver ordered goods at the destinations right time. If the consumers are satisfied with the service, they will not switch their demand to other brands. As part of the business expansion, Broadway Cafe can also take advantage of the website in dealing with their suppliers. The website would help to interact with the suppliers in an effective way so that various costs associated with supply can be minimized to some extent. The website can also be deployed in order to ensure more conveniences to its employees. The application of e-banking would aid the company to easily cope with the payroll dealings; and it would also enable the company to eliminate the difficulties associated with the manual clerical work (United Bank). Company website is the best channel for conducting

Tuesday, September 24, 2019

The History of Caste in India Term Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3250 words

The History of Caste in India - Term Paper Example It is therefore at all times difficult to interpret the past without letting the concerns of the present interfere. What can be ascertained with reasonable confidence is that by the 2nd century BCE the current caste system was in place, with the exception of the ‘Untouchables’ which did not appear until 600 years ago.1 Both systems were hierarchical and existed across the vast Indian Territory in varying and often quite different forms. In economic terms, being a member of the higher classes opened the door to relative wealth and prestige, whereas membership of the two lower castes meant generally living in poverty. In addition, in social terms ‘pollution’ was a serious problem between the castes, particularly for the lowest class, leading to severe and often humiliating exploitation.These conditions were portrayed as a largely homogenous Indian phenomenon by British Colonial Administrators and Orientalists, during the 18th and 19th centuries. The latter in particular took an intense interest in India and their works have until the middle of the 20th century represented the sum total of scholarly opinion. Although their interpretations are now often regarded as superficial and naive, a large component of the historical research then undertaken is still recorded as relatively sound and has found its ways into later works. It was only in the 20th century that views of simplicity and homogeneity were challenged, principally through events on the ground in India. Whereas Ghandi is often seen as something of a watershed in these stirrings, there were in fact others who attempted to challenge the established order. One of these is Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar, of particular importance here because he himself came from the lowest caste. He believed in his later years that Hinduism was corrupted beyond redemption and converted to Buddhism, whereas Ghandi maintained steadfastly throughout his life that division between the castes could be mended by r eturning to a purer form of Hinduism. It has now been recognized, however, that the problem is far more complex and that post-independence anti-poverty programs, whilst bringing a measure of relief to the lowest caste, are now the source of escalating violence, particularly in those states that have the highest poverty rates. There have been many reports of ‘Harijan atrocities’2, often involving degrading acts perpetrated by higher caste members and sometimes even leading to multiple deaths of members of the scheduled caste. Whilst these higher caste anxieties do not always translate into violence, they generally take the form of discrimination in social, educational and employment settings. And although some of this is waning, from convenience rather than conviction, rural areas are far more orthodox and discrimination here is much more marked. As with any hierarchical system, those at the top will fight for their privileges and are unlikely to let go of their higher s tatus. Thus it seems that the Indian caste system is here to stay and the best the lower castes can hope for is that in time they can share in India’s growing wealth and that the ‘polluting’ element of their condition will fade into oblivion. How fast these changes will occur will largely depend on how

Monday, September 23, 2019

Development of a Policy Document Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Development of a Policy Document - Essay Example This essay stresses that the first of the non-physical elements is that clinical staff likely to be exposed to the infection during the pandemic must be given anti-viral vaccinations to boost their immunity to reduce their contracting the infection. Such a step is recommended by the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices of the United States of America as vaccination is the primary prevention method. In addition to the anti viral vaccine to boost the prevention steps all clinical staff must go on an antiviral drug regime. Anyone of the antiviral drugs of oseltamivir, zanamivir, amantadine or rimantadine may be used for this purpose (Plans, 2008). In spite of all these measures, should a clinical staff suspect signs of influenza, then the clinical staff should remain at home and not come to work reducing the risk of transmission of the infection. The normal period during which it is possible to transmit the infection is five days and so this isolation period should be for a mini mal period of five days This paper makes a conclusion that the potential risk for an influenza pandemic is high and can occur at any time. Developing policy documents to address the various aspects of an influenza pandemic is thus a real concern. Clinical staffs are at a high risk for contracting the infection due to the nature of their work. This paper develops a policy document with the objective of minimizing the risk of clinical staff contracting the infection as they go about their job functions.

Sunday, September 22, 2019

Write Like a Modernist Essay Example for Free

Write Like a Modernist Essay Over the course of the next several days, you will complete a writing assignment. In the assignment, you will demonstrate your understanding of the tenets of modernist literature by rewriting a Romantic poem in a way that incorporates typically modernist qualities in terms of language, style, literary elements, and themes. The assignment is broken down into four parts. Part 1: Choose a Romantic Poem Romantic literature champions the beauty of the world and the inherent goodness of human beings, and Romantic verse is highly structured and deeply traditional. Modernism frequently defines itself as a reaction against and a rejection of romanticism. Modernist poets viewed Romantic poetry as a remnant of the nineteenth century. Modernists did not think that writing as the Romantics did in the 1800s could effectively capture their twentieth-century world or their experiences in that world. Begin this assignment by choosing a Romantic poem from the nineteenth century that you intend to rewrite in a way that incorporates typically modernist qualities. You can find numerous examples of nineteenth-century Romantic poetry on pages 83–112 of your Journeys anthology. For example, William Wordsworth’s â€Å"I Wandered Lonely as a Cloud,† which appears on pages 90–91 of your anthology, is a well-known Romantic poem. Note: You may not use this poem in your answer. Part 2: Briefly Explain the Romantic Poem You Chose In a single paragraph, describe the Romantic poem that you selected. Focus on the language, style, literary elements, and themes of the work. This step of the process is important because these are the aspects of the work that your modernist rewrite of it will change. Here, as an example, is a brief explanation of Wordsworth’s â€Å"I Wandered Lonely as a Cloud†: Most of Wordsworth’s poem describes how a â€Å"crowd† of daffodils near a lake looked as they fluttered in the breeze. This poem uses formal language, has a fixed rhyme scheme, and employs an even meter. The speaker is very closely linked to the poet, and neither the voice nor the perspective in the piece ever shifts. The work contains a number of similes—one compares the speaker to a lonely cloud, another compares the daffodils to stars—and the flowers are personified to make the descriptions of them more vivid. Thematically speaking, the poem is about how, even long after having seen the flowers, the speaker feels comforted and happy whenever he thinks of their beauty. Part 3: Do a Modernist Rewrite of the Romantic Poem You Chose Begin your rewrite. To do so, imagine yourself as a poet in the early twentieth century, and imagine your rewrite as an attempt to update the outdated elements of the nineteenth-century work you selected. Remember that modernist poems †¢ Capture the cynicism and disappointment many people felt toward outdated nineteenth-century ideas †¢ Focus on the complexities of modern life †¢ Highlight the alienation of the individual in the modern world †¢ Break with past literary traditions and styles †¢ Employ references to diverse cultures, belief systems, and histories †¢ Use experimental language and techniques, such as drawing a distinct line between the poet and the speaker and writing from multiple perspectives and in different voices Your rewrite must incorporate at least three of the six listed characteristics of modernism. Here is an example of a modernist rewrite of the first stanza of Wordsworth’s â€Å"I Wandered Lonely as a Cloud†: Part 4: Briefly Explain Your Modernist Rewrite In a response of at least two paragraphs, provide an explanation of the steps you took to rewrite the Romantic poem you selected. Your explanation should point out at least three typically modernist qualities in your work with regard to elements such as language, style, literary elements, and themes. Here, as an example, is a brief explanation of the modernist rewrite of the first stanza of Wordsworth’s â€Å"I Wandered Lonely as a Cloud†: In the first stanza of my rewrite, I tried to drastically change the mood of the poem. I did so by first changing the opening simile, linking the speaker (who is most certainly distinct from myself as the poet) to a World War I flying ace looking down on an empty town devastated by war. This image not only calls to mind the destruction that people in the early twentieth century witnessed, but also the loneliness felt by the individual when witnessing such devastation. I introduced ambiguity by not identifying the nationality of the pilot to whom the speaker compares himself: He may be a man seeing the destruction of his own town, or he may be one of the men who brought destruction on the town during battle. Then I decided to change the daffodils—a symbol of the beauty of the natural world in Wordsworth’s poem—to a crumbling building on an abandoned and ugly street. I thought these images helped convey a sense of loss. I used the word crumblecracking—an invented term—to call to mind how the broken bricks of the building look. This type of experimentation with language is typical of modernist poetry. Finally, I used the word forsaken not only because it suggests abandonment, but also because it calls to mind the last words of Jesus on the cross. This allusion then quickly blends into the reference to a mythological figure, Tefnut, the Egyptian goddess of rain and fertility. This allusion hints at the possibility of remaking a new world out of the fragments of the old, yet the â€Å"sagging† hospital attests to how hard such a restoration would be. Thematically, I was trying to depict the loneliness and the alienation of the speaker in this decrepi t world.

Friday, September 20, 2019

Dystonia in the Joint Hypermobility Syndrome

Dystonia in the Joint Hypermobility Syndrome Ehlers-Danlos syndrome first described by Tschernogobow (1896) in Moscow and Ehlers (1900) in Copenhagen is a mostly autosomal inherited genetic disease of collagen synthesis that sensitizes the ensemble of the connective tissue which becomes less resistant and less elastic. These two characteristics explain the symptomatology: fragility of the skin, of the vessels (haemorrhages) and the presence of a diffuse proprioceptive syndrome due to dysfunction of the receptors which are implanted into little or non-reactive connective tissue. Diagnosis of the hypermobile type of EDS is solely clinical as there is to date no genetic maker for the most frequent form of EDS. The rarity of the disease needs to be put into question before the crowd of patients at consultations. Our experience is based on an active database of 2212 patients which all fall under the Villefranche criteria. A great number of signs and symptoms have yet to be attributed to this syndrome. They are, combined with the una wareness of physicians about the syndrome, at the origin of therapeutic errors accompanied by the iatrogenic effects of prejudice towards these patients. This is the case of dystonia which is present in 75% of our cases. Dystonia plays an important part in the functional discomfort which is at the origin of a number of handicap situations. It seems to be related to dysautonomia common amongst the patients, proprioceptive problems and the multiple pains caused by the syndrome. Dystonia treatment with Amantadine and L-Dopa permits to obtain results which go further than the normally associated extra-pyramidal treatment and opens new perspectives on the management of a syndrome that has been particularly difficult to treat. Key-Words : Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS), dystonia, dysautonomia, L-dopa, pains, fatigue. Dystonia in the joint hypermobility syndrome (a.k.a. Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, hypermobility type). Introduction Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS) recognition went through many vicissitudes since the first outstanding description by Tschernogobow (1) and Ehlers (2) respectively in Moscow in 1896 and in Copenhagen in 1900. EDS genetic grounds have been recognized since 1949 (4) collagens role as early as 1956 (5). EDS was studied in parallel by the rheumatologists (Brighton and Grahame) and the geneticist (Beighton) who are each working mainly on articular hypermobility with different assessment tests. There is perfect similarity between the rheumatologists joint hypermobility syndrome and the geneticists EDS hypermobility type. These two denominations refer in fact to the same illness. However, a great body of clinical manifestations has not yet been assigned to this syndrome. They are, in combination with the physicians usual unawareness of this syndrome, the cause of many diagnostic wavering with their iatrogenic side-effects that harm the patients. This is the case with dystonia. MATERIAL AND METHODS 2,212 patients were diagnosed and followed up in the Ehlers-Danlos consultation in Paris, between 2006 and 2015. They were all examined by the same physician with the same evaluation grid both qualitative and quantitative allowing to rate from 0 to 4 the symptoms subjective severity and objective data from clinical examination. The populations age varies from 2years to 69 years (mean age: 32). 80% are women. Inclusion criteria All the patients in this study met the criteria of the geneticians Villefranche classification (6). On top of the criteria within this classification, we observed a group of 153 patients examined in 2013 with a quotation of severity equal or superior to 2/4 (medium intensity) with clinical manifestations of the following: multiple pains (95%), fatigue (93%), proprioceptive problems (92%), hemorrhages (93%), GERD (72%), bucco-dental manifestations (72%), hyperacousia (75%), diplopia (74%), SOB (76%), dysautonomia: heavy sweating (70%), cold intolerance (74%), a pseudo Raynaud with cold extremities (84%), cognitive problems : attention (79%) and memory (72%). As of date there is no genetic test available for the hypermobile form of EDS. Finding other cases amongst the patient’s family (95%) is a strong diagnostic argument. Dystonia identification Dystonia was diagnosed if a patient suffered from one or several of the following symptoms: Involuntary muscular contractions without movement such as fasciculation on the face, blepharospasm mainly, on the thigh, reminding of a mobile phone vibration in a trouser pocket, Sudden movements such as a fit of the wrist, the shoulders, the legs or wide movements which results in hitting objects or people or throwing off balance the patient for whom they occur in the lower limbs Trembling, jerking, hesitant hand movements Trembling fingers or thumbs in motion or at rest Muscular contractions often described as hardening of muscles, rigidity, constraining movement, or as cramps Lasting contractions in forced flexion of the thumb or fingers, in flexion and adduction of the feet, Writer’s cramp when writing after variable amounts of time, Incessant, repetitive movement in flexion or extension of the foot and knee when sitting with feet on the ground, Repetitive movement of the trunk alternating between flexion and extension at the hip Diffuse tonic crises at the lower limbs with alternating, violent movements worsened by tenting to immobilize them Short contractions of the lower limbs leading to a fall Partial or generalized tonic-clonic movements and the possibility of hematomas facilitated by the fine skin and the fragility of the vessels. These can be confused with seizure activity but the EEG remains normal Restless leg syndrome at night, which sometimes evolves into very violent jerks Bruxism, which we often encounter in EDS patients could be related to dystonia These dystonic contractions provoke luxations of the shoulder, fingers, a hip, knee or the maxilla. They are most commonly of short duration but can prolong over several days, weeks, months or exceptionally years as we have observed in a few cases. Dystonia is associated with the accentuation of other manifestations of the syndrome. Pain often increases to a very intense level in the part of the body where the dystonia occurs. Dysautonomic problems (vasomotor, sweating, tachycardia, orthostatic hypotension, freezing and cold intolerance, nausea, sensations of generally feeling unwell, POTS) at which Jaime Bravo (7) attaches fatigue. Pain itself can also provoke dystonia sometimes due to subcutaneous or intramuscular injections, traumatism, or simply during physical exam manoeuvre. It is perceived as painful by these hyperalgesic patients. Dystonia exists in 75% of our patients with the following severity index : 2/4 (39%), 3/4 (29%) and 4/4 (7%). The treatment of dystonia within EDS Our therapeutic approach of EDS (8) centres on the amelioration of the proprioceptive troubles, of the pain as well as the fatigue. Foremost we use proprioceptive shoe inlays and particularly proprioceptive clothing specifically adapted for EDS, derived from the treatment of burn victims and oxygen therapy against fatigue, shortness of breath and migraines. For the last five years we have successfully used Amantadine after the discussion with Pierre Cesaro (neurologist, specialist in the treatment of Parkinson). (9) When it was taken of the market in France we sought to replace it with L-Dopa which we prescribe at a low dosage (62,5 mg q3d –Modopar: 50mg L-Dopa +12,5mg Benserazide hydrochloride) adjusted to the needs of the patient especially in severe cases. We describe here the case of a 54 year old woman, a family medicine physician, who had been diagnosed with EDS-HT. Signs present since childhood worsened at the age of 52: muscular pain, intense fatigue, proprioceptive problems manifesting most importantly with difficulties waling. Signs of dystonia could be observed in the lower limbs. She is very tired with crises of somnolence that disturb her professional life. The fatigue and muscular pain is partially alleviated by wearing proprioceptive shoe inlays, 3 sessions of oxygen therapy (3L/min) 20min/day, baclofen and L-Carnitine. The effects alleviate progressively over the course of 2 months a generalised sensation of muscular rigidity of the legs and face with difficulties in the articulations, muscular twitches increasing in frequency. She started progressively on a treatment with Modopar (62,5mg q3d). The results were spectacular; after 2 weeks she recuperated fluid motion in her legs, the involuntary muscular contractions disappeared, but there was also improvement in her vigilance and in the fatigue. She stopped the Baclofen without forfeiting anything in her muscular state. After 4 months of the treatment with L-Dopa the effects on her vigilance are maintained with the total loss of the hypersomnia. She can cut down her intake of Tramadol extended release threefold. Whereas before she thought about stopping all of her professional activities, she is now able to pursuit her professional life with efficacy. The oxygen therapy is maintained as well as the L-Carnitine for their action on muscles, because c utting down this part of the treatment lead to an increase in muscular pain. Discussion 1 Identifying dystonia as a frequent and evocative manifestation of EDS Dystonia should be looked for in any patient diagnosed with EDS. It even contributes to its diagnosis. On the other hand, when dystonia is present in a patient often associated with psychiatric problems one should think of the possibility of EDS as a diagnosis and inquire about the other evocative signs: diffuse overall pain, fatigue, hypermobility, cutaneous fragility, joint problems, hemorrhages and familial cases. 2 Reflections on the pathophysiology We estimate that the alteration in proprioception plays a large part in the clinical manifestation of EDS. The receptors placed in a more elastic tissue, diminished in its thickness, easily deformed and compressed, having lost their elasticity (with a loss or attenuation of the elastic recoil),which do not or not well (not enough or too much) to solicitations. This is particularly true for the skin, which is the most important organ for the postural proprioception and for movement. This is also very true for the control of muscular activity via neuromuscular connections. This receptor dysfunction is also a plausible explanation for the anarchy within the autonomic nervous system, especially the crises of tachycardia and hypotension due to a loss in reactivity of the carotid sinus receptors implanted in altered collagen. This explanation can be expanded towards the mechanism causing dyspnea at effort, as the mechanoreceptors of the joints do not transmit the proper signals to the resp iratory centers. One of the arguments in favor of this explanation is the positive effect special compressive clothing has on the proprioceptive control of the limbs (less falls, fewer luxation of the shoulder and fingers) and the improvement of the respiratory difficulties when wearing these clothes on the trunk. It is logical to interpret dystonia by way of the same mechanism and the poor information which is received by the specialized area of central nervous system. The positive effect observed by Roland Jaussaud (10) on a patient presenting with permanent, multiple, involuntary movements which completely ceased after starting to wear the special EDS compressive clothing. An association between dystonia and dysautonomia has often been made (11). This corresponds to our observations made in consultation, especially in the instances that our patients came to call â€Å"their EDS crises†. These crises are often accompanied by postural orthostatic hypotension (POTS) which pla ys an important role in the sensation of fatigue. (7,12). They are habitually painful, even very painful. These observations suggest an intricate pathophysiological relationship between dystonia, dysautonomia and pain in Ehlers-Danlos syndrome which become the main therapeutic focus. 3 How to treat dystonia in EDS? The treatment of the proprioceptive problems (clothes and inlays), of the pain (inlays, local treatments to be preferred over the general route), of the fatigue (mostly oxygen therapy) and of the autonomic dysfunction by way of beta-blockers at low dose (13) seems to be a necessary prerequisite to be adjusted towards each patient individually. The specific treatment with anti-Parkinson medications have mostly been followed by their effects included on their effects in grand dystonic crises. The observation of positive effects outside of dystonia bears two questions: Firstly the role of dystonia itself on fatigue by way of less muscular activity and a better automatic control of movement, but also the role of dopamine as a molecule itself in this systemic disease. Conclusions Manifestations of dystonia in EDS is an important adjunct to further diagnosis and treatment, the understanding of its pathophysiology of this complex disease, which is little or poorly diagnosed, altering considerably life quality of the patients suffering from it and a source of many disabling situations. The integration of all the manifestations of dystonia into the symptomatology of EDS enriches the clinic of this syndrome and furthers/advances new therapeutic perspectives in a particularly hard to treat pathology. L-Dopa seems to have positive effects that transcend those researched on dystonia itself.

Thursday, September 19, 2019

I Believe: A Code Of Ethics Essay -- essays research papers

I Believe: A Code of Ethics by PHIL 301 Fall Semester, 1996 I believe in the power of Mind... I believe pitchers should bat... I believe Oswald was a patsy... I believe everything is a conspiracy... I believe that people are responsible for their own actions... I believe that The Who is the greatest rock band of all time... I believe in tolerance... I believe in capitalism... I believe we are who we want to be... I believe in choice... I believe in love... I believe that Bert and Ernie are televisions first gay couple... I believe that the 1979 Orioles were robbed... I believe that people who say they like Indian food are just trying to be cool... I believe that people get the kind of government they deserve... I believe in the power of having no god... I believe I can fly... I believe that Barney is the purple Messiah... I believe that the bible was a novel, written for profit... I believe in the mother ship... I believe the Mona Lisa was framed... I believe in Pez... I believe Darwin... I believe in beauty... I believe we have the worst justice system in the world with the exception of every other system... I believe in Wally and the Beaver... I believe I didn't learn anything in kindergarten... I believe we are all in this together... I believe that breakfast is the most important meal of the day... I believe the ozone layer is just fine... I believe in dedication... I believe my daughter is a prodigy... I believe that Kathy Lee is the Anti-Christ... I believe my dad can still beat me at arm wrestling... I believe I wouldn't want to beat him... I believe you shouldn't believe everything you breath... I believe in the power of love to warp mens minds and make men great... I believe in Santa Claus, the Tooth Fairy and the seventh inning stretch... I believe in me... I believe I'm done now...   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Developing a code of ethics is the most important thing a person can do. Such a code is necessary for humans because of our capacity to reason. Our ability to apply rational thought to the conduct of our lives is what makes mankind more than just an animal with an interesting thumb. These rational thoughts could very easily lead us to terrible acts, for what is in our best interest is often harmful to others. However there is another ability, peculiar to humans alone, that keeps most of us on the right path. Our ability to know what ... ...assless. And it is not susceptible to the fickle human idea of physical beauty.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  But how to know if a law is just? If it serves to protect, promote and respect the human Mind. If a law or an act works against the cause of Mind than it is unjust. Such laws must not be obeyed and indeed must be worked against. But how is one to know the extent of such civil disobedience? In my case, the answer is found in rule number one. So long as I do not put my family at risk of losing a husband and father, justice must be served. It is through this kind of meshing of the four rules that ethical quandaries can be answered.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Noticeably, the rules of the code, while existing to serve the cause of good and avoid evil, do not make it clear how to know which is which. There is no specific rule that gives a clear definition of what is good and what is evil. This is because the rules, when properly applied to an ethical problem, will lead to the action that is good.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  So then what is good? What is evil? Good is somewhat easier to define in that it is directly related to the last three rules of the code. An act which s

Monopolies Effect on Resource Allocation in Industry :: essays research papers

Monopolies are under constant critics from the public and other producers of being polutive, straining to competition and they are accused of worsening resource allocation. Whether this is true or not, depends on the specific company, but certain characteristics are possible to define. It is these I will describe in the following, and hence conclude if monopolies worsen or improve resource allocation.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  It is important to distinguish between competition and monopoly before describing advantages and disadvantages of both. Many monopolies are government owned. This means that the incentive to strive for more profit, better conditions etc. is gone. This is due to the fact that, if there is a loss, the government will cover it, and government owned companies seldom strive to achieve maximum profits. A lot of the characteristics are also seen in privately owned monopolizing firms. When they become so big, that competition is practically gone, the incentive to make even more profits, and being innovative diminishes.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  In a competitive industry this is not the case. The fear of loosing your job, not being able to compete, your products becoming obsolete etc. are important factors, which stimulate productivity. It is therefor obvious that the competitive industry will try harder to allocate their resources in the most efficient way. To land, the external costs in a competitive industry will often be pollution, seeing that the firm will strive hard to diminish their costs resulting in the firm ignoring 'unnecessary' costs. The monopoly owned by the government, would never be able to ignore such a serious matter, and they would have to pay the costs. A monopoly would also have to be careful not to damage its image, seeing that is, in many cases, already is unpopular.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Capital, on the other hand, is often to the benefit of a monopoly, since they produce at a large scale. To fully utilize capital, a lot of labour is needed, labour which a monopoly is expected to have, and a smaller competitive firm may lack. For example, a blast furnace might need a crew of 24 men working night and day, to fully utilize it. The monopolizing company may be able to provide the men, but the smaller firm might not have the money to hire all the 24 men at night, seeing wages are much higher at then. The question then is if the competitive company is so much more efficient due to hard work, that they still can produce more than the monopoly.

Wednesday, September 18, 2019

Edwin Blacks War Against the Weak: Eugenics and Americas Campaign to Create a Master Race :: Edwin Black Eugenics Master Race Essays

Edwin Black's War Against the Weak: Eugenics and America's Campaign to Create a Master Race To the average American it seems unfathomable that US based research into the "scientific" practice of eugenics could have been the foundation and impetus for Hitler's Nazi genocide and atrocities. In addition, notions of racial superiority and the scientific quest for the development of a pure Aryan nation, both by the United States and foreign countries, particularly Germany, were funded and fueled by monies from such prominent families as the Rockefellers, Carnegies and Harriman's. In his book, War Against the Weak: Eugenics and America's Campaign to Create a Master Race, author Edwin Black traces the history of the American eugenics movement, its influence on the rise to power of the Third Reich, and how it was the foundation for the development of scientific racism. Consequently, Black fears that though eugenics in the sense that we recall from the past is gone in name, the future still presents eugenic-like research under the guise of human genetic science, which once again i s supported by corporate funding whose goals are more for monetary gain and globalization, rather than for the benefit of mankind. The origins of eugenic ideology can be traced to the mid-nineteenth century when English philosopher, Herbert Spencer coined the term "survival of the fittest." Those strong and "fittest" would naturally rise to the top, for the benefit of society. Spencer, along with other leading scientists like Charles Darwin and Gregor Mendel advocated the principles of the improvement of the human race based on this superiority logic; supporting their findings through the combined applications of science and mathematics. In 1865, statistician Francis J. Galton "postulated that heredity not only transmitted physical features, such as hair color and height, but mental, emotional and creative qualities as well," and so new theories were born. (Page: 15). These characteristics were more than coincidental and Galton set about classifying and categorizing thousands of people based upon his hypothesis that negative hereditary existed, and that bad traits would out weigh the good and as a result, peo ple would spiral biologically downward. Thus the term "eugenics" was utilized as "the study of all agencies under social control which can improve or impair the racial quality of future generations." (Page: 18). Using the principles expounded by Galton and through Mendel's research in laws of recessive and dominant traits discovered in plant breeding, American researchers entered this new scientific field.

Tuesday, September 17, 2019

American Gangster Film Review by Steven Zaillian

A Film Review November 27, 2007 Title: American Gangster Genre: Gangster Writer: Steven Zaillian Director: Ridley Scott Date and Place of performance: November 21, 2007 at my house On November 21, 2007, I was home for break and watched an interesting-historical film titled American Gangster. The film was written by Steven Zaillian and was directed by Ridley Scott. American Gangster was a gangster movie that reflected back on the pass. The performance environment was at my house in the living room on a DVD player. The room was dark, cool, and very comfortable, which made it very relaxing and easier to watch and study the film. American Gangster took place in Harlem, New Jersey, in the 1960’s and 1970’s. It was a movie that was based on a true story, of a man by the name of Frank Lucas. American Gangster was basically about Frank Lucas and his life as a big time business man, big time street-pharmacist, but most of all a family man. Frank Lucas was a business man of street drugs; he was a gangster, who transported drugs from Bangkok in the Vietnam War to the east cost of the United States. Frank Lucas was not just and old street-pharmacist, he was smart he had people working for him, people on his side, like the war, the mob, but most of all his family. He got his money up and had his family had his family move from North Carolina over to New Jersey, in a big white house, this way his brothers could work for him and his clientele would increase and he would save money because his family was working for him. Lucas was also smart because he was not like the other gangsters, he did not flash around his money, and he did not wear loud colored clothing. Lucas wore regular suites, as if he was a true business man, he did not have anybody on to him until people started dying from the drugs he had out on the streets, called Blue Magic. It was called Blue Magic because it was a pure drug, nothing in it was mixed. Lucas had the whole east coast on this Blue Magic; he had the Queens, Bergen Country, N. J. , Brooklyn, and the Bronx. This is when a man by the name of Rickie Roberts came in; he was a man who worked for the law and in a prosecutor’s office. Rickie Roberts was a good cope, at least he thought, he did something no cope would ever do, he turned in nine-hundred-eighty-seven-thousand dollars unmarked cash and did not one police officers respect him for it. Roberts had a lot in his life, he had a son whose mother was taking him to court for custody of the child, he was going to school to become a lawyer and his state bar test was coming up, and he wants to catch Frank Lucas. Roberts finds out about the Blue Magic by his partner dying from it, then that is when he started letting his guard down by wearing the flashy coat his wife bought for him. This is when Roberts had the man he was looking for; he just needed a way to stop him. In the end Lucas finally was caught coming out from church, by Roberts. He was convicted of conspiracy to distribute narcotics and was sentenced to seventy-years in prison but he only served fifteen-years and was released in 1991. His brothers were convicted on drug trafficking. His mother moved back to North Carolina, and his wife moved to Puerto Rico. However, Rickie Roberts quit the prosecutors’ office and became a defense attorney; his first client was Frank Lucas. The film is episodic because of the short scenes and numerous characters. The type of message I received from this movie was â€Å"don’t sale drugs†, because you only in up in two places behind bars or six feet under. It also gave me the feeling of a person getting fast money not working hard for what they want, but â€Å"good things come to people who are patience and work hard†. American Gangster is compared to the American dream; and the American dream is defined as having a nice house, good paying job, kids and a dog, and no worries in the world. The way I think American Gangster relates to that is, Frank Lucas did kind of lived the American dream and beyond because he had a nice house for his family and a good paying illegal job, a dog but no kids of his own, I guess his brothers were his kids. The purpose of this film was to inform audiences about a, true life story, of a man who tried to live the American dream by selling drugs and his negative results. The writing of this film was very unique. I thought the film was a work of considerable technical as well as artistic merit, because it makes you respect and acknowledge the fact that this was a smart dangerous man. I think, Zaillian’s, point of view of this movie was to express how Frank Lucas’s life really was, and to get the audience to feel the hurt that Lucas went through. I thought the story and the theme was interesting because it showed how greed, wealth, progress, and success can lead to trouble in someone life. I think â€Å"the more money you have, the more problems you will see†. The reason why I think this is because Lucas, over the time became greedy and he was not able to receive drugs anymore because the war was over. So he started to have problems with everything, life, family, and his wife. I thought the story gave a fresh insight into human condition of wealth and greed. I thought the American Gangster was based and a portrayal source of historical events, for example, when Roberts’s partner killed the black man for drugs at that apartment, and all the black people were outside the apartment ready to charge the door. It seemed like a riot to me. The whole movie was a historical event because it was based on a true story, which is historical. The director uses a lot of money as a symbol of evil and trouble. I think this because everybody who had money or was real wealthy in this movie was evil and had a lot of troubles in their life. The irony of it was Rickie Roberts. For example, when he had the chanced to have a lot of money he did not take it, he turned it in instead, and everybody thought he was stupid for it, but really he was smart for turning in the money. I think this because the money would have brought evil and trouble to his life and since he turned it in, I think he was the real wealthy person because in the end he to Frank Lucas, he passed his law exam, and was able to become a defense attorney. The directing of this movie was great. I thought the story was told in a visually interesting way, because it showed a lot of action and it was not just about gangsters it was also about learning how to survive in the streets. The special effects were very effective, the way characters would get shot looked real, but most of all when they showed characters use the drugs and the way their skin would look after wards. The director did a great job on the location and studio environment because the sound effects and picture was nice a clear. I think American Gangster did not really show, Ridley Scott’s, personal style of movies, because this movie was about someone’s life and they had to make it like Frank Lucas’s life was back in those days. I thought the actor’s performances were guided by the director effectively. The acting of American Gangster was great. The stars of American Gangster were; Russell Crowe, Denzel Washington, Chiwetel Ejiofor, and Cuba Gooding, J. R. I thought their performances were real life like; it gave me that real street life feeling. These are also all magnificent actresses. The actors who played the supporting roles were so effective I would have thought they were professionals. The actors made American Gangster, Frank Lucas’s, story seem believable, serious, and heart fulfilling. The editing was interesting and effective. The sequences do develop emotional impact. For example, when he bought his mother and his family the new house, to see the happy look on his mother’s face when she was told that it was her house, was so emotional it gave that deep feeling like when you want to cry for something that is good. The unusual or symbolic juxtaposition I thought added interest was when Rickie Roberts was trying to put the pieces together by taking pictures trying to put the pieces together by taking pictures of suspects and putting their pictures in order so the story would come together and it would get him closer to Frank Lucas and the bottom of the story. In the end Frank Lucas put all the pictures in order and told the story. The production elements of the movie were effective. The setting of the movie was effective, because it starts with Frank Lucas killing someone by setting them on fire and then he shot them. This made me feel like it was going to be a really good action movie. The lighting was effective it set the moods. The music set the mood as well, when it was sad, happy, and intense. The costumes and makeup were effective; the actors played their parts well when it came down to acting like an old school gangster. For example, when Frank Lucas went into the hood to sale his products he was made up in an afro and long beard, he would be in disguised. The special effects were effective, when they showed the dead bodies on the Army plane, they looked real. There were no continuity breaks while watching this film. The elements that I was able to identify were the music, the special effects, and the makeup. My overall impression of the film was great, I really enjoyed it. The film’s strengths were the special effects and the acting. For example, the special effects were good when someone was shot and when they showed the dead bodies in the army bags. The all around best, I think Denzel Washington is a good actress in every movie he makes. The film’s weaknesses was none, I do not think I seen any weaknesses. I was not disturbed by anything; I was impressed with the whole movie. The movie was great; I would recommend others to experience this film. The iconographic that I came upon was when Frank Lucas speaks of being to loud, like the big bright suits they wore. This made me think of the street-pharmacist today, their profile is big cars with a loud color paint job and loud music with flashy clothing. I think foreshadowing was used when Rickie Roberts gets Lucas’s cousin to snitch, then he tells him that Frank Lucas will find out he snitched then he will kill him because he was his cousin. The films political significance was the use of violence, when the whole world became greedy and wanted money and drugs. The social significance was the study of the society in Harlem, went from bad to everybody on drugs and dying, which I would call it social dead zone. The film historical significance was that it was based on a true story. If the film was from another culture, their conventions would be interesting and unusual. The movie did have subtitles; it was necessary and beneficial to read the subtitles. The effect it had was good; I was able to understand what was going on in the movie and not get confused. I think American Gangster can not be a sequel because it was based on a true story of someone’s life. My critical perspective of this movie was that it was very unique, never seen anything like it, I feel that it will reduce the numerous of people who sale drugs, and overall it was an in creditable movie.

Monday, September 16, 2019

Penn Foster Exam 028004 Essay

Paragraph 1 I understand that you are currently seeking to hire a receptionist at your ACT-1, Los Angeles location and I am highly interested. I know that the person for this position is responsible for receiving and greeting any visitors/clients, answering phone calls, taking and delivering messages and sorting and handing out mail. I am more than capable of doing all of that. Ever since I was a child, I was recognized for the effort I put into every piece of work. Growing up, I knew that I wanted to end up in a place where my hard work is appreciated. While researching your company, I instantly knew this was the place for me. I am confident, hard working and reliable. I am positive that I meet all requirements and I know, I could make a valuable contribution to your company. Paragraph 2 My boss, Mrs. George, has a position available for an assistant here at ANS Inc. and I believe this would be an excellent job opportunity for you. You are everything that Mrs. George is looking for in an assistant.You’re excellent at multi-tasking, an independent worker, extremely organized and not to forget, your great written and verbal communication skills. You won’t have to work weekends, this is a well paid position.You will no longer have to work double or have to worry about making ends meet. I really think you should apply for this position. I understand that you don’t have this type of experience but it give it some thought, cousin. The ad for this position will be put up soon on the company web site. If you are interested, give me a call so I can put in a good word for you.

Sunday, September 15, 2019

Kant Categorical Imperative

Kant’s Categorical Imperative Kant’s Categorical Imperative is made up of two formulations, Formula of Universal Law and The Formula of the End in Itself. The first formulation is best described by the following statement, â€Å"Act only according to that maxim whereby you can at the same time will that it should become a universal law without contradiction. † (Kant, 1785, 1993). What does this mean? A maxim is the fundamental rule of conduct or your moral belief upon which you chose to act. A universal law is a law that everyone must follow regardless of the outcome.How do we determine if the maxim can become universal? One of the first things to do is to ask yourself if it would be acceptable that everyone do the same thing that you are considering doing in that situation. We were given several examples in The Elements of Moral Philosophy and the one that made the most impact was â€Å"suppose a man needs money, but no one will lend it to him unless he promise s to pay it back-which he knows he won’t be able to do. Should he make a false promises to get the loan? † (Rachels, 2012).If this happened the maxim or universal rule would be anytime you need a loan tell a lie that you will repay it and you will get the loan. This is not something that everyone would be willing to do because you will no longer believe others when they tell you this statement and no one would be willing to make the loans. The second thing you should do to determine if the maxim can become universal is look at your answer to the first question. Did you say â€Å"yes, I think that everyone will do it? †. If so, then ask yourself if it makes rational sense to want everyone in the same situation to do what you are contemplating doing.If your answer was no to either question then your maxim cannot become universal law because it is not considered moral. Overall, based on Kant, an act is morally right only if the primary rule of behavior, which is how you decide to act morally, can constantly and universally relate to you and others. The second formulation is best described by the following statement, â€Å"Act in such a way that you treat humanity, whether in your own person or in the person of any other, never merely as a means to an end, but always at the same time as an end. (Kant, 1785, 1993). Basically, this means that morality consists of doing your duty to treat people, including yourself, and an end, never as a means to an end. Kant combined the second formulation with the first because we have a perfect duty to not use the humanity of ourselves or others merely as a means to some other end. Most ends are somewhat subjective because they need only be pursued if they are in line with some particular hypothetical imperative that a person may choose to adopt. (Categorical Imperative Explained, 2012).The second formulation also leads to the imperfect duty to further the ends of ourselves and others. If any person desires p erfection in themselves or others, it would be their moral duty to pursue that end for all people equally, so long as that end does not contradict perfect duty. The question of whether or not Kant adequately addresses the problems evident in comparison of the two formulations cannot be summed up with a simple yes or no answer. He makes a good argument for both sides just as he opposes both sides.The difference is whether or not we have the right moral sense to determine why and how our decisions affect ourselves and others. Kant shows that you have struggles when rationality and practicality are conveyed to cover the same matter. So after all this we ask the question, â€Å"How plausible is the theory? † I think that it is a logical theory that clearly assists in making decisions. It provides a plausible account of morality because you can look at others and have a tendency to complete your actions based on those of others. Kantianism is a more consistent theory because it ca n be universally applied to all.It is more believable because even if the penalties of carrying out an action aren’t necessarily the best, the individual is still obligated to perform the action because it is their duty to do so. Kant’s theory focuses on the motivation of actions and has a clear and distinctive set of universal rules, and is morally sound. Consequently, ethically and morally they are doing the right thing. Bibliography Categorical Imperative Explained. (2012, April 12). Retrieved from Everything Explained: http://everything. explained. at/categorical_imperative/ (1993). In J. W. Ellington, Grounding for the Metaphysics of Morals (p. 30).Hackett. Kant, I. (1785, 1993). Grounding for the Metaphysics of Morals 3rd ed.. . In J. W. Wllington. Hackett. Rachels, J. (2012). The Elements of Moral Philosophy. McGraw-Hill. Reason – Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia. (n. d. ). Retrieved from http://en. wikipedia. org/wiki/Reason Chicago: Reason – Wiki pedia, the free encyclopedia, http://en. wikipedia. org/wiki/Reason (accessed April 17, 2012). The Elements of Moral Philosophy. (n. d. ). Retrieved from http://jamesrachels. org/78improvedsentences. htm Chicago: The Elements of Moral Philosophy, http://jamesrachels. org/78improvedsentences. htm (accessed April 17, 2012).

Saturday, September 14, 2019

A Desert Journey Kokology

A Desert Journey Waiting can be a special form of torture, worse than any momentary pain. The combination of frustration and boredom can send even the bravest heart into a state of panic. Our first journey will bring us face to face with the infinite. Take a moment to prepare yourself, and eternal desert†¦ 1. You are riding a camel across the vast and empty expanse of a seemingly endless dessert. You have ridden until you are near exhaustion. What words would you say to the camel that has carried you all the way? 2. Just at the point you thought you’d die of thirst, a beautiful oasis appears.But someone has arrived before you. Who is this other traveller? (Use the name of a person you know. ) 3. Time passes slowly in the desert, and it feels like an eternity before the lights of a town appear on the horizon. You have finally reached your destination. What are your feelings as you come to your journey’s end? 4. The time has come to part with the camel you have ridde n for so long. Just as you dismount, a new rider climbs into the saddle to take your place. Who is the new rider? (Name another person in your life. ) Key to a Desert JourneyThe desert and camel theme symbolizes the journey toward personal independence. Specifically, this scenario reveals your feelings about parting with a lover. Your answers show how you might react when the time comes to go your separate ways. 1. The words you spoke to the camel reveal what you might say to yourself when you realize love has been lost. Did you try words of encouragement like â€Å"We’ll make it through somehow! † Or was there a hint of despair — â€Å"We’re lost†¦ this is hopeless†¦ I think we’re going to die out here†? 2. In psychological terms, the oasis symbolizes the key to solving one’s problems.The person you encountered here could be someone who has helped or comforted you in the past or one you might turn to in times of need. 3. Th e town at journey’s end stands for the order restored to your emotions once you’ve recovered from your broken heart. Your feelings upon reaching the town are your true feeling about finally getting over a lost love. 4. The new rider is a person toward whom you feel a secret rivalry, jealousy, or resentment. Is the person you named a rival in love or maybe someone who once broke your heart?

Friday, September 13, 2019

Reflection on Kon-Tiki and The Concept of National Cinema Essay

Reflection on Kon-Tiki and The Concept of National Cinema - Essay Example In this regard, the Concept of National Cinema which was advanced by Andrew Higson is relevant to this film in its entire creation, editing and production (Andersson, 2010). The concept of National Cinema asserts that a film reflects the culture of a given country of its origin. This explains the varied dress codes, languages and overall production techniques of movies across the world. Taking the instance of Kon-Tiki, the film gives a narration of the cross cultural experience of the sailor through America and learning important aspects of cultural diversity as far as the role of art is concerned (Williams,2002). The filming industry as indicated by Higson need to observe the role of culture in influencing the audience size of the film viewers. Even the source of funding of a film dictates the cultural domination in it. In the case of Kon-Tiki, the film was created from a book that already had massive demand in various parts of the world before being acted through United States funding. It is therefore worth to conclude that the ideas expressed in Higson’s Concept of National Cinema are significantly captured in the techniques and mode of production of the

Thursday, September 12, 2019

Daniel Rutherford Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Daniel Rutherford - Essay Example Daniel Rutherford, from Holl, 1804 It was a natural academic progression to attend the University of Edinburgh where his father was a professor of medicine. Daniel would also graduate with a degree in medicine, but it was the experiments he conducted as a student that helped unlock the mysteries of combustion, life, and the composition of 'vital air' ("Daniel Rutherford"). At the time, it was known that a quantity of air that had been subjected to combustion would no longer support life. It was mistakenly believed that the only gas left was carbon dioxide (CO2), and it was considered noxious because of its in inability to support life. Rutherford, through a series of experiments, was able to extract the CO2 and found that it still would not combust or support life. Though he is credited for isolating nitrogen, a more accurate portrayal is that he discovered that air was a mixture of many gases and there was the existence of 'vital air', that would later be known as oxygen. In 1772, he published his thesis titled On A ir Said to be Fixed or Mephitic (Daintith 467). This enabled other scientists that were doing similar research to be moved down the path of discovery. Rutherford's thesis helped guide the current thinking and has been credited with spawning many of Joseph Priestley's later experiments.(Daintith 467).

Wednesday, September 11, 2019

Byzantine Empire Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Byzantine Empire - Essay Example These books and codes were largely accepted in the East but failed to make substantial impact in the west and thus contributed to the divide which has started to rise. Justinian ambitiously tried to reconquer all the Western lands that Rome had lost to the barbarians. Justinian became the emperor in 527 and ruled until 565 and proved him to be an able ruler and he was in fact responsible for the rise of the Byzantine Empire and gave Eastern Rome a separate identity. It was his great reign which is considered to be the birth of the Byzantine Empire. Justinian successfully reconquered much of the territory that had fallen into barbarian hands. In the first phase of his projects, the entire north coast of Africa fell under Byzantine rule. Next he fought the Ostrogoths in Italy. But in 18 years of siege and counter-siege (535-553), Rome changed hands six times which means he stabilized the Eastern part but the Western part was falling which ultimately resulted in the lost of Roman identi ty and birth of the Byzantine Empire. The New Groups The wars were taking place and the barbarians were becoming powerful but at the same time new groups were also rising which included the Christians and the Muslims. The Christian priests were spreading the faith among the masses and Christianity was made the official region of the empire which meant that the Roman temples and Oracles were no more the centers of religion and the holy was now redefined and Churches were the place of worship now. Byzantium Defense Constantinople, the Byzantine capital city was the most important factor in the increasing the strength of the Empire since it was naturally protected against the invaders and could not be conquered with ease no matter how strong and advanced the invading army was. The high... Byzantine Empire Through the 4th century while the Roman Empire was still united there were two capitals following the political will of the same emperor. There was a split in the empire but the two states were not antagonistic to each other since they were a single empire on technical grounds but the series of events that took place in the 5th century lead to the collapse of the Western part while the Eastern part survived but was reduced to a medium sized empire which was more akin to the Persia than to Gaul. The East Held-back The diplomatic and political distances between the two parts of the empire were becoming more and more and the administrative and infrastructure crises in addition to the wars fueled the deteriorating situation. The war with the Visigoths was fought alone by the western wing of the empire and eastern wing instead of sending troops to defend the western borders strengthened its own capital. The infrastructure which was decaying on the western fronts was not repaired by the ea stern richer wing because they were no more concerned about the bridge between the two wings which was holding them together. Role of Justinian Emperor Justinian of the east is well-known for his efforts for driving away the barbarians and restoring glory to the Roman Empire. Another great effort by Justinian was the legislative initiatives he took. Thus the historians have legitimately renamed the Eastern Rome as Byzantine Empire because the Roman identity no more existed.

Tuesday, September 10, 2019

Environmental Sustainability Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Environmental Sustainability - Research Paper Example In the article â€Å"Information Systems Innovation for Environmental Sustainability†, the author Nigel Melville (2010) discusses the relationship of information systems to environmental sustainability and how the relationship, in turn, affects society. According to the online business dictionary, Information systems (IS) are â€Å"combined hardware, software, infrastructure and trained personnel organized to facilitate planning, control, coordination, and decision making in an organization†, simply an overall information and resource management that make an organization function. In the aforementioned article the innovation in information systems showed direct effect for environmental sustainability wherein it plays a role in contributing change for shaping a better environment, for a better tomorrow. The article tackles about pioneering practices and processes in IS that improve environmental and economic performance. The article also discussed three types of relations included in the analysis provided namely macro-level variables such as social structure affect the psychic states (beliefs, desires, opportunities, etc.) of individuals; psychic states affect individual action and combined individual action affects macro-lev el variables such as the behaviour of the social system. All these belong to the social system construct which refers to both social and natural systems. These levels lead to the usage of Coleman’s model, which has been widely used in the sociological and organizational structures of analysis. This model fits the belief- action- outcome (BAO) framework which, after data gathering and analysis, research results intersecting information systems and environmental sustainability in organizations (Melville, 2010). Protectionism is defined in the online business dictionary as â€Å"government policy aimed at

Monday, September 9, 2019

Information systeams Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Information systeams - Essay Example More so, the bank offers offshore banking services for the UK expatriates and foreigners residing in the UK. On the other hand, Barclays bank traces its origin in 1690 through a gold smith banking business in London. Later in 1736, an investor named James Barclay joined the business, which expanded tremendously to become a nationwide bank under the name Barclays and Co. Currently, the bank is a British multinational banking as well as a financial service company whose headquarters are in London, UK (Jain, 2005:96). The bank serves millions of customers with its outstanding services like saving accounts, current accounts, loans, mortgages, and much more all over the globe. This paper will evaluate the process of the two named banks’ personal loan processes and compare the two bank processes, not forgetting to outline the type of information system the banks use to process the personal loans NatWest personal loan There are two types of personal loans, which are secure and unsecu red loans. Unsecured loan is that which is supported by the credit worthiness of the borrower without using collateral or property. On the other hand, the secured loan is the loan acquired after rendering property or any other collateral as security to stand in place of the loan acquired. Unsecured loan is the most common type of loan acquired by individuals of all categories. To begin with, NatWest bank offers unsecured personal loans at a rate of 8.9% APR typical and this loan is available to existing current account holders only. The other account holders like the Advantage Gold,  Advantage Private, and Black Current Account holders the APR or preferential representative rates at 6.4% for loans ranging between ?7,500 and ?14,950. In addition, the applicant must be eighteen years and above and should be UK residence. In order for a borrower to estimate or work out how much loan he would like to borrow, the rates, monthly repayments and total loan costs, the bank offers personal loan calculators online. More so, the bank offers Jargon Buster to clarify confusing terminologies that are commonly associated with loans. Prior to unsecured loans, the bank also offers secured personal loan. This is a type of loan granted by banks over security of one or more asset. These assets will belong to the bank after the customer defaults on his personal loan repayments. In most cases, this loan is offered to people who offer houses or even personal vehicles as their security or collateral, which means that customers with these assets are the only individuals entitled to the loan. Unlike the unsecured loans, secured loans are more flexible in a manner that the borrower chooses on the period of repayment and can borrow as much amount of cash as they need as long as it is of the same value with the asset offered. Nevertheless, secured and unsecured personal loans fall under the same department. NatWest secured personal loan interest rates are paid based on personal circumsta nces where loans extending to ?14,950 have a maximum term of five years, while loans ranging from ?14,950 to ?25,000 have a maximum period of seven years. More so, home improvement loans over ?15,000, the repayment period takes up to ten years. In addition, no matter how much the amount one borrows, NatWest offers a minimum term of one year, and the borrower can repay the credit earlier

Clinical Case Study (Community Nursing in Aged Care,Gerontology) Essay

Clinical Case Study (Community Nursing in Aged Care,Gerontology) - Essay Example According to Ford (2004), elderly have been increasingly the focus of health and social care policy, particularly on their continuing needs of care, which are met in a variety of setting such as their own home, supported housing, residential care, nursing home or hospital. Mrs. Howard, a 72 year old widow, is referred by a concerned neighbor. At the time of visit, it is noted that Mrs Howard is slow to answer the door, and dressed with unkempt appearance. Her house is tidy but her bedroom is unmade. Her gait is slow but steady. It is noted that the refrigerator of Mrs. Howard has no food, and the kitchen is tidy. Mrs. Howard’s medication are sitting on the kitchen bench. Mrs. Howard complained of feeling very tired and she is having difficulty getting out of bed in the morning. She added that she has to get up to the toilet at nighttime. She has not been feeling hungry and has lost a little weight, hasn’t been preparing meals, has not been out for shopping or visiting friends in a few weeks. Mrs. Howard gets confused about how many tablets to take. Her medications were Lanoxin 125, Naprosyn 250 mg, Urex 20 mg, Mylantas, Agarol, Panadol, and Garlic. In older clients, the possibility of developing adverse drug events is increased for the reason that several co – morbidities are observed in the elderly whom multiple medications are prescribed (Hamilton et al., 2009; Woodhouse, 1997). Hamilton et al. (2009) added that this risk is compounded by changes related to age such as physiology and composition of the body influencing drug handling and response. It is also important to note that as the person grows old, the sleeping pattern changes as well. A marked heterogeneity in health status and functional capacity in the elderly makes decisions in prescribing more complex and challenging (Hamilton et al., 2009). The following are the drugs prescribed to Mrs.

Sunday, September 8, 2019

Culture in business Term Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Culture in business - Term Paper Example Different nations across the world have different cultures and it is important for a business to evaluate and critically understand these cultural dynamics as they play key role in the success of a business in a particular area. People attach a lot of significance to the cultural issues within their region this usually influence their behavior, attitude, opinion in regard to a business. Communication is an extremely key factor for the success of a business. National culture in which a business enterprise operates can alter and daunt effective communication. Language is one of the most important aspects of a communication (Tahir, 2014). If two people are not able to communicate in a language they both adequately understand, the message transmission cannot go through or its interpretation can be flawed. For example, for an American firm to expand its branches and open more others in the Middles East countries, it is important that the language issue is properly addressed by decisions like hiring workers who understand the language of the local people so that communications with the consumers and every stake holder is enabled. Product promotions and advertisements sometimes require the promoters to use local languages of the people so as to enable the target group; who apparently might not be able to speak any other language relate the advert message. In some culture selection of wording is very important in product promotion. Some words might mean well in one culture but on the other culture, they are condemned. Also, to be able to effectively communicate with employees who probably are hired locally from that nation with a diverse culture require the business management to speak the same language. Consumers are more likely to purchase products from firms that they effectively communicate with than those that don’t. This implies that firms that identify

Saturday, September 7, 2019

Equity and trusts assignment (law) Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3000 words

Equity and trusts assignment (law) - Essay Example Sadhia owns 1,000 shares in Yorkshire Water and owns and runs a retail clothes shop. She also owns a number of freehold commercial properties in Bradford and London, in addition to a cottage in Devon and a cottage in Scotland. Sadhia is admitted to hospital shortly before the anticipated birth of the baby because her symptoms of infection were widespread and she needed constant medical care; she was advised by her consultant that she only has a few weeks to live. She calls her brother and her eldest children Irfan and Safeena to a family meeting in the hospital at which she says she wishes them both to take over the retail shop and run it together. Sadhia also says that Irfan is to have her recently acquired Audi estate car. 6. I give to my husband the balance standing to the credit of my Barclays bank account for his sole use and what is left or that he no longer needs shall be held on trust for the children in equal shares. 9.I give to my trustees my collection of original Indian prints upon trust for sale and I direct that they should allow any member of my family to choose one of the paintings before the collection is sold. In order to be able to advise the parties with regard to the dispositions in the will and the trust deed it is necessary to consider which of the bequests can be regarded as valid and which might fail due to having not been properly constituted. In an express trust the person making the bequest must adhere to certain formalities in order for the will and the trust document to be regarded as valid. In relation to determining the validity of the will an the trust deed the court will need to consider whether the requirement of the three certainties has been satisfied. One of the first considerations that will be made by the court will be in respect of the capacity of the person making the will. This is governed by the Family Law

Friday, September 6, 2019

Big Families Essay Example for Free

Big Families Essay For any child I believe it is better to have a big family because you will have someone to talk to, someone to work with and new experiences every day. I know how you feel for example you might think a small family is better because you are the only child and you will get anything you want. So what is you had a problem who will you talk to if you had a small family .But if you had a big family you will not have just one person to talk to you will have many. Another example is when you’re doing homework and you need help who will help you? And if you had a small family who will help you if your parents are working. On the other hand if you have a big family you will have someone to explain your homework as well. If you have a small family and you win a prize to go somewhere are your parents do not want to go. But if you had a big family and you have a older brother or sister who want to go you will be able to enjoy your prize with your brother or sister. If you never been to that place you will have new experiences every day. In conclusion , I think a big family is better because you will have new experiences everyday , you will have someone to talk to and someone to work with .Please consider my reason when making your decision because a big beautiful family is better than a small family, think of what would happen if you where the only child you would be very bored without anyone to talk to.

Thursday, September 5, 2019

Lifestyle Changes in the 1920s US

Lifestyle Changes in the 1920s US â€Å"Cultural civil war† (Digital History), Symbolizes the era of the 1920s. Author F. Scott Fitzgerald labeled this decade the Jazz Age. In his novel, The Great Gatsby, he criticized the exterior and possessive lives of Americans after the war. The traditional lifestyles were fading away while the luxurious, party lifestyle flourished. Throughout the 1920s Americans continually tested the universal image of desired behavior. The decade was shaped by wealth, parties, moonshine, and sexually expressive dancing. The changing lifestyles developed major cultural conflicts within America. Alcohol, music, immigration, racism, and flappers of the 1920s illustrate the changing lifestyles brought about by the jazz age. During the 1920s, alcohol was the greatest contributor to the lifestyle changes and cultural conflicts. These changes eventually became noticed by the governing power, and on January 16, 1920 the 18th Amendment came into effect. The 18th Amendment, known as prohibition, was the forbidding by law of manufacture, transport, and sale of alcohol. Along with 18th Amendment, congress passed the Volstead Act to enforce the new prohibition on alcohol. The mob and gangsters took advantage of the opportunity and began smuggling and bootlegging liquor, and became quite profitable. Alcohol was smuggled in from Mexico and Canada, also being shipped from abroad to the U.S. from Europe and the Caribbean. Canada was exporting roughly a million gallons of alcohol to the United States a year. Bootleggers made their own drinks with wood, alcohol and medical supplies, sometimes causing blindness, paralysis, or death. In The Great Gatsby, and in the 1920s, bootlegging was sociably acceptable. In F. Scott Fitzgeralds novel, Nick comments on Gatsbys house after his huge party, telling him that his house party glowed immensely like the â€Å"worlds fair† (Fitzgerald 86). All of Gatsbys guests knew he was involved with organized crime, but yet seemed to attend all of his parties without hesitation. Because of the Prohibition law, Gangsters developed secret drinking establishments, Speakeasies; which provided an entertaining atmosphere, jazz music, food, and alcohol. The illegal bars were called speakeasies because you had to speak the password to enter. With the flood of liquor expanding, the government created the Prohibition Bureau, which always fell short of men and money. The mob, due to the amount of money they were making, were able to expand their influence on bribe public officials; many judges, law makers, police, and Prohibition Bureau members were on various crime organizations payrolls. Alphonse â€Å"Scarface† Capone was one of the famous bribers of the Jazz Age. Capone essentially owned Chicago, and in 1927 he made around $60 million by bootlegging. In the End, â€Å"The idea behind Prohibition was to reduce crime and poverty, and generally improve the quality of life in America—by making it impossible for people to get their hands on alcohol. But this so called ‘Nobel Experiment was a colossal failure† (Speakeasies, Flappers Red Hot Jazz: Music of the Prohibition). Lasting roughly thirteen years, Prohibition ended with the ratification of the 21st Amendment, on December 5, 1933, legalizing alcohol. In addition to alcohol parents, teachers, and pastors blamed the lifestyle changes on the musical changes of the Jazz age. The Harlem Renaissance was a movement where black authors, musicians, and artists show cased the talent that African Americans had to offer, marked the beginning of the musical changes. It was F. Scott Fitzgerald who called the 1920s the â€Å"Jazz Age†, but it was the African Americans who gave the era its jazz. Jazz is a musical form, native to the United States, creatively mixing different forms of music, including African American blues and rag time, and European-based popular music. As slaves African Americans learned few European cultural traditions. Becoming popular in the late 1920s, jazz was very â€Å"addictive† to people because of its unusual beat and rhythm. In The Great Gatsby, when Nick, Daisy, and Tom are walking to their car, Daisy is drawn back inside by the music, tuning all other surrounding sounds out (Fitzgerald 115). Jazz was so distinct it didnt just spread among the U.S., but around the world. Some of Jazzs most famous artists within the 1920s were Duke Ellington, Miles Davis, and Louis Armstrong. Jazz along with the beat and rhythm developed new dance styles, such as the Charleston, becoming so popular that it still symbols the Jazz Age. Along with Jazz, other musical forms and changes emerged, such as Blues, Hillbilly, and boogie woogie music. Of the 1920s, Bessie Smith was the best and most influential classic blues singer. Hillbilly music, also known as country music, was best represented by musician Jimmie Rodgers. Pianist Cow Cow Davenport developed the trademark tune â€Å"cow cow blues†, giving life to boogie woogie piano style. The Roaring twenties, known as the Jazz age because of Jazzs unusual beat and rhythm, became the most popular music of the era. The invention of the radio â€Å"drew the nation together by bringing news, entertainment, and advertisements to more than 10 million households by 1929† (The Formation of Modern American Mass Culture). The newly invented radio contributed to the flourishing of jazz, and gained widespread appeal during the decade, even among the whites. Another Contributor to the lifestyle changes in the 1920s was immigration. 4,107,209 immigrants immigrated into the United States from 1921 to 1930. Immigrants brought along their lifestyles and culture; thus forming a culture clash. This is exampled in The Great Gatsby when those from the Midwest Nick Carraway were fair, honest, and straight forward, while those living in the East for sometime Tom and Daisy Buchanan were unfair, corrupt, and materialistic. Many immigrated to America hoping for the American Dream, social advancement, freedom, and endless opportunities. Main issue with immigration was the competition for jobs. In 1921 a quota system for immigrants was developed by congress. A quota system is an arrangement that limited the number of immigrants who could enter the U.S. from specific countries. In 1924 the National Origins Act, states that the number of immigrants of a given nationality each year could not exceed 2% of the number of people of that nationality living in the United States in 1890. By the middle of the 1920s one out of every four people was an immigrant. The Quota Law of 1924 and 1929 act limited the number of immigrants to 150,000 to be distributed among people of various nationalities in proportion to the umber of their compatriots already in the United States in 1920. Many Americans viewed these immigrants as a threat to American religious and social values, as well as economic opportunities. Due to the number of immigrants, racism peeked during the 1920s. The Ku Klux Klan, a hate group, reached nearly 4-5 million members in the 1920s, spreading throughout the U.S. The KKK aimed at killing non-whites and other religious groups, harassed and promoted hatred towards African Americans, but also aimed at the new America forming within the cities. They targeted Jews, Catholics, and immigrants. One center of Klan strength was Indiana, where leader David Stephenson was strict and controlled few politicians. In the darkness of night the KKK burned crosses, boycotted business owned by Jewish, Catholics, and Africans, terrorizing the citizens. The Klan wore masks to conceal their identities, waved flags and preached hate. Famous leaders of the Klan during this era include Grand Dragon and Imperial Wizard. Behind the hard, hateful exterior, were just Americans fearful of change. Flappers, directly illustrate the changing lifestyles and cultural battles within the Jazz Age. Many of the young unmarried women of the twenties rebelled against the conventional patterns of behavior and became known as flappers. Flappers often cut their hair short, wore it in a bob, and wore short straight dresses that would flap around when they would dance. Flappers flaunted their independence from parents by going away to college or moving to the city. They also abandoned social taboos that said women shouldnt drink, smoke or become sexually active. Daisy and Myrtle from The Great Gatsby embody the flapper image by drinking and their party lifestyles. Both of them also cheated on their husbands, having love for more than one man. Flappers were known to hang out in speakeasies and night clubs where they danced with bear arms and legs flying. Flappers flaunted their sexuality; this marked the 1920s individuality of the modern woman. The 1920s was a decade of deep cultural conflict (The 1920s An Overview). The cultural conflicts of the twenties were between a more metropolitan culture, and a more traditional culture. Americans were no longer interested in politics, but entertainment. Because the 1920s produced a breed of artists, musicians, and writers, who were among the most ingenious and clever in American history, the 1920s developed into one of the most crucial periods in the countries cultural history (The Formation of Modern American Mass Culture). Author F. Scott Fitzgerald called the 1920s the Jazz Age and the decade was truly was Jazzs golden age. â€Å"The stock market crash of 1929 signaled the end of the party. The roaring 20s came to a close in economic chaos and the lighthearted atmosphere of the Prohibition era fizzled out with the end of the decade† (Roaring Twenties). The changing lifestyles brought about by the 1920s Jazz Age was embodied by alcohol, music, immigration, racism, and fla ppers.