Movie Response Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Movie Response - Essay Example The director of the movie, Spike Lee, who also plays the character of Mookie, portrays the relationship between the characters on the racial background. The message about racism and the relations between races is quite strong and powerful in this film. You can divide the characters into two groups – those who try to live peacefully with the representatives of another race (Pino, Jade, Vito), and those who are in the state of conflict and have anger at the people of different race (Buggin Out, Radio Raheem). Mookie is somewhere in between – he seems to be torn between both sides due to his commitments. One more important character of the movie is Mister Senor Love Daddy – his is the voice of reason in this conflict. The conflict, which builds up gradually and finally breaks out in the end of the movie, is triggered by Buggin Out and Radio Raheem, but the main part is played by Mookie, who seems to finally decide for himself which side to take, and he ends up on the side of his race, the African-Americans. Even though the movie is not easy to watch, I would even dare to say that it is a heavy-duty film, in the end you feel like you have learned something, because you see the position of those who are at the other side. The main conclusion that I come to is that racism is ugly in all its manifestations. Whether there are people dying from the racial conflicts, or businesses suffering, or children are getting the wrong message – racism is bad, it is wrong. When you start watching the movie with the title â€Å"Do the Right Thing†, you wonder what IS the right thing? Watching the movie I was thinking and, in a way, hoping that in the end I will get the answer to this profound question. Instead, I was left wondering. This question is left up to the audience to decide, and that is probably what good movie is about – not to tell you what is right or what is wrong, but to make you ask yourself these questions. In the end of the day, after watching the movie

Steps involved in recruiting Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Steps involved in recruiting - Essay Example A wide variety of federal and state laws govern what can and can’t be done during all stages of the recruitment process which comprises of the interviews, investigations, tests and selection to be carried out on the new employee (Sian, 2012). Normally the following statutes will come into play prior to the starting of any stage in the process of selection, interviewing and appointment. They include ;( 1) The Civil Rights Statute of 1866, 1870 and 1871 which forbid any form of prejudice against the minorities.(2)The Fair Labor Standards Statute of 1938 which provides a smallest wage, prevents child labor and requires that employees be paid overtime for extra work done.(3)The Equal Pay Statute of 1963 which provides for equal pay for both genders for work that requires similar effort, skill, responsibility as well as working condition. (4)The Civil Rights Statute of 1964,specifically Title VII-forbids the selection of employees on the basis of sex, color, race, national origin, religion as far as employment matters are concerned from recruitment up to discharge and obliges employers to find out any discriminatory practices and get rid of them. This act also forbids sexual harassment. (5) The Age Discrimination in Employment Statute of 1967 which forbids discrimination due to age for anyone who is over 40 years. (6)Pregnancy Discrimination Act of 1963 Act which was amended Title VII and recognizes pregnancy as a disability that is temporary and forbids bias on childbirth, pregnancy or associated medical conditions (Sian, 2012). 7)The Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986 which forbids prejudice in employment due to citizenship status, national origin, forbids employment of illegal aliens and gives penalties for any violations.(8)The Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990(ADA)-forbids discrimination against individuals who are

Harmful Effects of Embalming Fluid

Harmful Effects of Embalming Fluid Both formaldehyde and glutaraldehyde based embalming solutions are widely used in preserving dead bodies and in pathology, forensic medicine and museums. Phenoxyethanol may be an alternative to them. Each of them has its merits and demerits but none of them is totally non-toxic. This review is about various possible adverse effects of these embalmbing solutions. Key words: Embalming solutions, Formaldehyde, Glutaraldehyde and Phenoxyethanol. Introduction After death human body starts putrefaction, to prevent this process embalming is required. By this process dead body retains its morphological characteristics for a longer time period. Later on this preserved body is used in medical institutes for the study of anatomy by students. Anatomy is the backbone in medical curriculum in which students learn the external and internal structures of human body in detail. Moreover embalming procedure can also be used to keep dead bodies intact during transportation. Besides this, embalming solution is essential constituent in preservation of parts in pathology, forensic medicine and museums. These solutions contain number of chemicals mixed in appropriate ratio for their specific purposes. Important constituents are preservatives, buffers, anticoagulants, germicides, fungicides, perfuming agents, hygroscopic agents, dyes, etc. An ideal embalming solution should neither alter the natural structures including color of the specimen, nor have any type of adverse effects in form of topical or systemic. It should also prevent growth of insects and maggots and the putrefaction process. All these characteristics are usually not found in the routinely used embalming solutions. Therefore it becomes an important issue to educate the persons regarding the possible damages produced by the embalming solutions. This review article has been written with intention to give the information regarding components used in the embalming solutions their advantages and disadvantages. Important chemicals like formaldehyde, glutarldehyde, methyl alcohol, phenol, glycerine, oil of winter green, eosine solution, phenoxy ethanol are used to make the embalming solutions. Depending upon the concentration of individual chemical these solutions have been grouped in to three types: (a)Formaldehyde based embalming solution, (b) Glutaraldehyde based embalming solution and (c) Phenoxyethanol based embalming solution. Formaldehyde Formaldehyde (HCHO) is most commonly used chemical for embalming purposes. Formaldehyde is a colorless gas with a strong, suffocating odor. It is often mixed with alcohol to make liquid called formalin. The largest source of formaldehyde is the chemical manufacturing industry. Formaldehyde is found in cigarette smoke and also can be formed in the environment during the burning of fuels or household waste. Very small amount of formaldehyde is found naturally in the human body. Formaldehyde is a popular chemical because of its low cost and can be used for many purposes like making furniture, wall paneling, etc. Formaldehyde also can be used as germicide and preservative. It is also found in items such as dyes, textiles, plastics, paper products, fertilizer, and cosmetics. Formaldehyde solutions are used as a fixative for microscopy and histology. Formaldehyde-based solutions are also used in embalming to disinfect and temporarily preserve human and animal remains. The concentration of formaldehyde is usually expressed in terms of parts per million (1 ppm = 1.248 mg/cu.m.). This is prepared by mixing the commercially available formalin solution with tap water in the proportion of 3:1 [1]. The use of formaldehyde in preserving the tissues, organs, and body parts is very common. Technicians in histology laboratory, students in anatomy classes, are exposed to this solution. Formaldehyde has been known to produce allergy, contact dermatitis, eczema, irritation and inflammation to mucus membranes, and if ingested can produce systemic toxicity which can be fatal. This also has tendency to produce mutations and development of malignancy. Permissible limits of occupational exposure to formaldehyde are 3 ppm in a time weight average breathing zone during an 8-hour period, a ceiling concentration of 5 ppm and an acceptable maximum peak of 10 ppm for no longer than 30 minutes during a one day shift. To reduce the toxic potential of formalin it needs to be buffered by additio n of a small quantity of Sodium tetraborate to get a slightly alkaline solution with a pH of 7.2. This buffered formalin needs to be freshly prepared just before preparing the embalming fluid. These chemicals are mixed to make an embalming fluid. Occupational exposure to formaldehyde by inhalation is mainly from three types of sources: thermal or chemical decomposition of formaldehyde-based resins, formaldehyde emission from aqueous solutions (for example, embalming fluids), and the production of formaldehyde resulting from the combustion of a variety of organic compounds (for example, exhaust gases) [2]. Once absorbed, formaldehyde is very quickly broken down. Almost every tissue in the body has the ability to break down formaldehyde. It is usually converted to a non-toxic chemical called formate, which is excreted in the urine and is converted to carbon dioxide and breathed out of the body. But formaldehyde can be toxic, allergenic, and carcinogenic [3]. Acute exposure of formalin adversely affects pulmonary system. It may decrease vital capacity much more as compared to other pulmonary parameters. This may be attributed to bronchoconstriction produced by formalin [4]. Experimental studies have shown that exposure of formal dehyde may damage liver. This destruction is directly proportional to the length of exposure of formaldehyde. Few clinical studies have also shown the damaging effect of formaldehyde on liver of human beings. The hepatic damage occurs in form of congestion of hepatic parenchyma and elevation of hepatic enzymes [5-7]. Neurological toxicities after exposure to formaldehyde in human beings are manifested in form of fatigue, headache, myalgia etc. If toxicity is due to formaldehyde ingestion, person may have loss of memory, seizures, altered behavior, altered consciousness and in severe cases coma. Animal exposure of formaldehyde has shown brain damage in form of altered neurotransmission. The main neurotransmitter changes are increased serotonin and dopamine metabolites in hypothalamus [8, 9]. Hematopoietic system is not much affected by the formaldehyde exposure. However intravascular coagulopathy, alteration of red cell count and hemoglobin concentration has been reported in some stu dies [8]. Gastrointestinal tract is not much affected when exposure is through inhalation. However, when ingested it may adversely affect the GIT. If toxic dose of formaldehyde is ingested it produces inflammatory lesions of orophyarnx, soft palate, pharaynx, epiglottis, esophagous, stomach. These lesions are due to contact irritant and corrosive nature of formaldehyde. The lesion may be in form of ulcerations and necrosis. Clinically this toxicity manifests in form of abdominal cramps, vomiting, haematemasis, malena, altered gut motility etc. Chronic ingestion of formaldehyde may also give rise to gastric and esophageal malignancies [8-10]. Though renal system is not a major target of formaldehyde metabolism, however risk of renal failure and anuria is there in persons acutely exposed to the formaldehyde. The animal experiments have shown that formaldehyde can produce renal papillary necrosis, polyuria, increased blood nitrogen [9]. Formaldehyde is a skin irritant and dermal sensit ization agent. Contact dermatitis, allergic dermatitis, erythema, epidermal hyperplasia have been shown to occur due to chronic exposure of formaldehyde in animals as well as in human beings [11]. Air born formaldehyde exposure most frequently produces eye irritation. Endocrine system and reproductive organs are minimally affected [12]. Formaldehyde may have mutagenic and carcinogenic potential. Out of all cancers nasopharyngeal cancer has been well established to have association with formaldehyde exposure. Fortunately formaldehyde has not been correlated with teratogenic potential [13-15]. To reduce the risk of damage due to formaldehyde, certain measures can be adopted. Replacing the formaldehyde with less hazardous chemical, reducing the concentration of formaldehyde in the solution, proper storage of product, closing the jar when not used, disposal of exposed clothes are some of them. Facility of fume hood just at the site of embalming, wearing personal protective equipments like face mask, safety goggles, self contained breathing apparatus, gloves, water proof smock, head gear etc further reduces the chances of exposure. Careful monitoring of lung function tests, chest x-ray, allergy testing, and examination of eyes time to time should be adopted. Other important work practices recommended are labeling the container, educating employee regarding the possible adverse effects, monitoring the air concentration of the room, avoiding eating and smoking at work place. Formaldehyde is inflammable and precautions to prevent fire should be taken. Any spill should be immedia tely informed. If spill occurs evacuate the room and reach to the safe place, eliminate all ignition points, spread the dry sand over the chemical, ventilate area. If contact has occurred the person should wash skin, eyes, remove contaminated clothing and should be treated as an emergency [16]. Glutaraldehyde Glutaraldehyde an aliphatic dialdehyde is a colorless liquid with pungent smell. It is one of the best biocide agents for disinfection and sterilization at hospitals. This is very widely used in medical, scientific, and industrial application. As fixator in histochemistry and microscopy, tanning agent and as ingredients in cosmetics and pharmaceuticals are some of the important uses of gluteraldehyde pharmaceuticals [17, 18]. Radiologists use gluteraldehyde as hardener in x-ray developing solution [19]. Though considered a relatively safe, it possesses irritating and corrosive properties. The strength of gluteraldehyde may vary from 1 to 50% [20]. This variable concentration exposure may give rise multiple unexpected toxic effects. In general due to its corrosive and irritant effects it produces throat irritation, nasal bleeding, burning eyes, precipitation of asthma and sneezing [21]. Due to its tanning effect it also discolors the hands of handling persons. Large acute dose can pre cipitate severe headache, vomiting, and altered consciousness. The persons commonly exposed to glutaraldehyde are staff workers involved in sterilization of endoscopes, dialyzing machine, research workers, and x-ray film developers. Glutaraldehyde exhibits superior properties to formaldehyde in relation to the fixation, disinfection and sterilization. It is more effective in less concentration and in less time exposure as compared to formaldehyde. Regarding the embalming properties, glutaraldeyde is slow diffusing, but develops rapid irreversible reactions with the body proteins. This is in contrast to the formaldehyde which is fast diffuser, but produces reversible reactions with proteins. This characteristic of glutaraldehyde favors its use as embalming solution. Only disadvantage of glutaraldehyde as embalming solution is the slow tissue perfusion resulting in appearance of signs of embalmation very late. Hardening and stiffening of body occurs after long duration. So the body ha s life like appearance for a longer time. Another advantage of glutaraldehyde is that reactions are less affected by pH alterations and it reacts even at the higher pH where formaldehyde becomes inactive. Because of slow diffusion and perfusion rate glutaraldehyde reacts less with blood and blood perfused tissues. This leads to minimum coagulation and more clearing of blood from tissues. This persevered tissue becomes clearer in appearance. However, if glutaraldehyde solution is kept for long time yellowish tanning and darkening of tissues occur. Regarding the toxic potential of glutaraldehyde, it is relatively safe but numbers of animal studies have indicated that oral ingestion can produce gastrointestinal damage, alteration of behavior, precipitation of seizures. Local external contact has tendency to produce contact dermatitis, brown discoloration of skin, exfoliation of skin, conjunctivitis. Vapor inhalation of glutaraldehyde may precipitate bronchospasm, nasal discharge, excessive lacrimation, salivation, and dyspnoea [22]. Another drawback of glutaraldehyde is that it may produce photosensitivity to the ultra-violet rays. This may be responsible for the erythematous lesions after sun exposure. There is no proven risk of glutaraldehyde as genotoxic and mutagenic agent but most of the studies are based on animals. Therefore chances of mutagenicity, genotoxicity, and carcinogenicity cannot be excluded in humans. The persons exposed to glutaraldehyde for long duration should undergo through regular medical checkups. The te ratogenic potential has not been reported in animal studies but if possible the exposure of glutaraldehyde should be avoided during pregnancy and lactation [23]. Phenoxyethanol Phenoxyethonol also known as phenoxytol or phenoxyethyl alcohol is a colorless or light yellow, viscos liquid. This is a strong oxidizing agent. It is incompatible with acidic solutions and also has combustible property. Phenoxyethanol is a modern antimicrobial preservative. Presently this is used as common preservative in diphtheria, tetanus, and pertusis vaccine. This inactivates both bacterial and fungal growth. Other use of phenoxyethanol is as preservative of cosmetic materials. Due to its ability to inhibit phagocyte activity it is supposed to be toxic to all cells. Moreover it can alter the immunity of the exposed persons. As for the other alternative chemicals in place of formaldehyde, Frolich et al in 1984 tried using phenoxyethanol as its non-toxic substitute. It proved to be impractical as the amount required was large, i.e., about 600 litres for each cadaver needing continuous emersion to prevent mould formation and the fixation process taking 5 to 10 months [24]. Various adverse effects by Phenoxyethanol can be: central nervous depression, nausea, vomiting, sometimes diarrhea, prominent headache, later abdominal lumbar pain, costovertebral angle tenderness, transient polyuria then oliguria, progressing to anuria, acute renal failure, less critical pathological lesions may appear in brain, lungs, liver, meninges heart  [25]. Other components which are used in embalming solution are methyl alcohol, carbolic acid, sodium tetraborate, glycerine, eucalyptus oil, and eosine. Methyl alcohol helps in precipitation of proteins and reducing contamination. This also helps in dispersion of formaldehyde into the body tissues. Carbolic acid helps by its germicidal and fungicidal actions. Sodium tetraborate is used as buffer agent and stabilizing agent. Eucalyptus oil acts as perfume and eosine helps in giving the reddish color to the tissues. Conclusion Considering all the characters of chemicals used in embalming solution one can see that it is impractical to find out non toxic embalming solution. The person involved in process of embalming as well as students should be taught regarding the possible hazardous effects and methods to minimize. The place should be well equipped for handling of any emergency condition. Each one involved should be taught regarding the procedures of basic life supports. If any untoward incidence happens the person should be stabilized by basic life support followed by shifting to the place equipped with advance life support system.

Supersize Me :: Film Movie Films Movies Supersize Me

Supersize Me Some of the people interviewed for this film suggest that Americans can always refuse to eat fast food, but is it really that easy? No, because there are many factors involved when an individual or family decides to eat fast food for any particular meal of the day. Several factors in this decision include but are not limited to: Firstly most people pack their day with activities continuously so there is not much time left in the day to cook. Secondly children play a large role in whether a mother will stop at McDonalds.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  In a society where the thought of idle hands as the devils workshop, more people are joining more gym clubs, children are participating in more extra-curricular activities like sports, dance, and the like. More people are going back to extend their education, and subsequently forced to attend classes in the evening. Couple this with parents who work at night or families who have teen-age children who are independent and these factors equal families who spend more time in restaurants than they do in their own kitchen. When families get home late in the evening then dinner often become a snack. This is not to say that every family in America follows this routine, but Caucasians in particular are most likely to become victim to this trend. Caucasians in particular encourage their children to participate in anything. Families who have two parents working have an opportunity to maybe enjoy a home cooked meal a couple nights a week.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  McDonald’s marketing plan is a clever ploy direct at the children of this planet. If not for children and their addiction to clowns, and maybe time factors, mothers would have no reason to stop at fast food restaurants. A great deal of McDonald’s have a play land where the parents can come to appease their child and end up sitting for a two or three hours. Many women meet and make it a social activity. This is how the beginning of eating unhealthy begins. As a result of this, people grow and become cozy with the idea of McDonalds.

The Challenges Faced by North Korean Defectors

The Challenges Faced by North Korean Defectors, and the E? ectiveness of NGOs in Aiding their Plight Sociology 250: Gabrielle Bishop Instructor: Jerry Hinbest North Korean refugees face a number of obstacles both prior to and after making the escape from a regime that has literally starved them from food, facts, and freedom. From the day they are born, North Koreans are e? ectively brainwashed by their government into believing that they live in a workers’ paradise, and that in comparison the outside world is a hopeless place.Most go onto believe this whole-heartedly, as outside ows of information (which could potentially expose their government) are essentially non-existent. However, in the wake of extreme food shortages, many citizens have decided to defect from the Democratic Peoples’ Republic of North Korea (DPRK). The majority of which intend to make the journey north through China, to Southeast Asia, and nally reach South Korea, where they can be granted refugee s tatus and be given nancial support from the South Korean government.Some opt to remain in China, where they accept to live as illegal aliens (Kim, H. K. , & Lee, O. J. (2009). A Phenomenological Study on the Experience of North Korean Refugees. Nursing Science Quarterly, 22(1), 85-88) as the journey to South Korea can be long and expensive. Even if they are successful in completing the journey from North Korea to China, Southeast Asia, South Korea, or elsewhere, studies show that North Korean defectors are at a high risk of experiencing Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) (Jeon, W. , Hong, C. , Lee, C. Kim, D. K. , Han, M. , & Min, S. (2005). Correlation Between Traumatic Events and Post-traumatic Stress Disorder Among North Korean Defectors in South Korea. Journal of Traumatic Stress, 18 (2), 147-154; Chung, S. , & Seo, J. (2007). A Study on Post-traumatic Stress Disorder Among North Korean Defectors and their Social Adjustment in South Korea. Journal of Loss and Trauma, 12, 365- 382). However, evidence has shown that non-governmental organizations (NGOs) were successful in helping defectors adjust to their new lives outside of the DPRK 1 Kim, J. (2010). A Study of the Roles of NGOs for North Korean Refugees' Human Rights. Journal of Immigrant & Refugee Studies, 8. 1, 76-90. ). Unfortunately, due to the isolationist nature of North Korea, original research (and information in general) on related topics can be most di? cult to nd. In conclusion, these refugees face a number of social, physical, and nancial barriers, starting from the way they have been brainwashed, and leading to potential mental health issues, even if their escape from North Korea is successful.However, rehabilitation for these refugees is indeed possible. To understand any matter relating to North Korea, it is rst necessary to understand the context in which the nation operates. North Korea has been referred to as the most isolated state in the world (Kim, 2010); this is largely owing to th e tight grip Kim Jong Il possesses over all state media in the DPRK. However, since the 1990s, more and more North Koreans have made the decision to defect (Kim et all, 2009; Chung et al, 2007).This tight grip also extends into the educational sphere, as research shows that North Koreas are trained to be suspicious of outsiders (Lee, D. (2010). Portrayals of Non-North Koreans in North Korean Textbooks and the Formation of National Identity . Asian Studies Reivew, 34, 349-369. ) At rst, some might attribute the rising number of defectors to the process of globalization, and the a? ects it could have on making sources of eye-opening outside media more readily available in the â€Å"Hermit Kingdom†. However, with the exception of a few upper-level party o? ials in the â€Å"Propaganda Department† entrusted with producing the only media allowed in the state, most average North Koreans have no way of understanding what basic human rights exist outside of the DPRK (Clippinge r, M. E. (1981). Kim Chong-il in the North Korean Mass Media: A Study of Semi-Esoteric Communication. Asian Survey, 21(3), 289-309. ). Thus, case studies have shown that the vast majority of refugees choose to ee because of hunger and/or economic reasons (Jeon et al, 2005; Robinson, W. C. , Lee, M. K. , Hill, K. , Hsu, E. , & Burnham, G. (2001).Demographic Methods to Assess Food Insecurity: a North Korean Case Study. Prehospital and Disaster Medicine, 16(4), 286-291. ) – this would also explain why the numbers of refugees 2 increase when insider reports of famine increases (Jeon et al, 2005). However, these studies (which all demonstrate evidence of famine) blatantly contradict the North Korean government’s constant â€Å"reassurance† that there is no shortage of food within the DPRK (for example, the â€Å"Dear Leader† recently made a visit to an apple orchard in rural North Korea which was publicized in an approved North Korean news service.The article gave the impression that agriculture in the DPRK is ourishing, and that farmers and consumers alike are all satis ed. [Kim Jong Il Gives Field Guidance to Ryongjon Fruit Farm. (2011, October 3). Korean News]) However, history and past studies have shown that after the death of Kim Il Sung (North Korea’s â€Å"Great Leader†) in 1994, a series of natural disasters leading to food shortages in the DPRK occurred. In 1995 and 1996, severe ooding; in 1997 a large-scale drought (Jeon et al, 2005). This brought about extreme food shortages, placing millions of people at risk of starvation1 (Robinson et al, 2001).About 75% of the North Korean population are eligible to purchase subsidized food rations via the government’s Public Distribution System (Robinson et al, 2001) Ration portions vary depending on age and occupational status (â€Å"o? cially†, adults receive 700g of grain a day; children 500g; and elderly 600g – however, recently-arrived North Korean respondents to a survey conducted in China noted that these were grossly in ated numbers, and that most people receive much less) (Robinson et Al, 2001). Despite this, many Koreans still starve.This has led to many having ed north of the border, to China, where despite the fact that basic social services cannot be guaranteed (the Chinese government does not permit North Korean refugees to stay in China, and has a policy to deport said refugees), defectors can at least have access to food via setting up their own small-scale farms. Studies estimate that between 50,000 and 150,000 North Koreans are temporarily living in China, because of this (Robinson et al, 2001). 3 Even after making the journey to China, through Southeast Asia, and nally to South Korea, studies show that many North Korean refugees battle against ental health issues, like PTSD (Yu, S. , Jeon, W. , Cho, Y. , & Eom, J. (2008). Traumatic Experiences and Mental Health of North Korean Refugees in South Korea. Psychiatry Invest, 5, 213-220; Chung, 2007; Jeon, 2005; etc). A study undertaken in 2007 collected data via interviews with North Korean defectors aged 18 and up who had been admitted to South Korea since 1990 and had been there for at least 3 months post-completion of the government’s protective management course at the Hanawon training centre. The results of this study found the following: â€Å"†¦ 60 of the 133 subjects (45. 1%) fell within the high-risk group, leaving 73 persons (54. %) in the low- risk group. This meant that almost half of the subjects remained exposed to PTSD risks. The mean total score for social adjustment of the high-risk group was 34. 22, and that of the low-risk group was 36. 51; the 2. 29-point di? erence between the two groups was found to be signi cant, t(131) 1? 4 2. 098, p ; . 05. These results adequately re ect the reality that the social adjustment of the high-risk group was poorer than that of the low-risk group, also suggesting that PTSD deser ves more attention when considering the likelihood of social adjustment success among North Korean defectors. † (Chung, 2007).This study, like many others, showed that along with other issues (ex: problems with family relationships and nancial management) the overall level of social adjustment among North Korean defectors in South Korea was rather low (Chung 2007; Kim 2009; Yu, 2008). The Chung study noted that it would be bene cial, based on the ndings, to institutionalize a mental health intervention system in order to act preemptively against defectors becoming at risk for PTSD and any other mental health issues, and that a follow-up management system emphasizing support among defectors in their new local communities must also be 4 stablished (Chung, 2007). The Chung study also noted that special care must be directed towards female defectors in their adaption to South Korean society, as they are often at risk for sexual abuse, among other di? culties, that their male count erparts are not faced with however, in spite of this, female defectors still demonstrated lower levels of PTSD symptoms and social adjustment than their male counterparts (Chung, 2007).One gap in the Chung research project was that it failed to address the issue of North Korean defectors’ past traumatic experiences, and that it acknowledged that more in-depth data on the subject should be collected for a more holistic understanding of North Korean defectors’ social adjustments to life in South Korea. Most NGO activities for North Korean refugees are focused on providing humanitarian aid and protecting their rights in other countries, particularly China (Kim, 2010). In a study done in 2010 by Jungin Kim, four NGOs working to support North Korean defectors were analyzed. Human Rights First was the rst NGO to be studied.Research showed that the organization had attempted to improve standards for DPRK human rights, and despite being unsuccessful in passing the North Korean Refugee Act of 2002 in the USA, continued to ght towards the establishment of a human rights protection-related law (Kim, 2010). In the second case study, Japan-based Life Funds for Korean Refugees (LFKR) was examined. LFKR helped play an instrumental role in the resettlement of DPRK defectors in Japan. (Kim, 2010) As well, LFKR established and maintained secret routes within North Korea, where food was successfully delivered to starving people (Kim, 2010).LKFR is known to also work alongside Christian Solidarity Worldwide (UK), Human Rights without Frontiers (Belgium), the US Defense Forum (USA), and Durihana Mission (South Korea), in e? orts to build a network of NGOs across the world, united by a common cause (Kim, 2010). Furthermore, the study found that through providing an English-language website and equipping its sta? with language skills and other cultural background knowledge, LKFR was successful in gaining international attention from journalists and building networks wi th other NGOs and government o? ials (Kim, 2010). The Seoul-based NGO known as the Citizens Alliance for North Korean Human 5 Rights (NKHR), has taken an educational approach through training North Korean refugees upon arrival in the south (Kim, 2010). NKHR provides refugee resettlement, various training and cultural programs, publication and academic activities, etc. (Kim, 2010). The study found that these initiatives have indeed proved successful; NKHR’s only barrier to extending its programs to more defectors being funding (Kim, 2010).Finally, World Vision was the last NGO studied. While the other NGOs focussed on providing education or resettlement services to defectors, World Vision was found to take a more humanitarian approach to aiding North Koreans (ex: providing them with relief kits in response to the ooding in North Korea) (Kim, 2010). While many of these NGOs were found to play a positive role in helping North Korean citizens and defectors, Kim also notes that a possible issue with NGOs is that many compete for limited resources and recognition (Kim 2010).As well, he notes that it has been disputed whether or not NGOs can truly remain independent, or â€Å"third-party†, in the sense that the limited money that does go towards the NGO can come with political strings attached (Kim, 2010). He also points out the obvious danger that NGO workers put themselves in when dealing with North Korean and Chinese human rights a? airs, citing the instances where two LFNKR aid workers were arrested and thrown into Chinese prisons, as China maintains the philosophy that human rights are not universal, but rather are subject to each respective country (Kim, 2010).In conclusion, research shows that the types of struggles North Korean defectors face are emotional, mental, and economic, among other things. The defectors often choose to ee North Korea due to extreme food shortages, and are met with a world of shock after being exposed to the outside worl d (as the state media in North Korea is highly regulated and controlled). This shock often manifests itself in the form of PTSD.Several NGOs are trying to address the issues faced by North Korean refugees, through a variety of methods, including: humanitarian aid, social support, education, training programs, emotional & mental support, refugee resettlement, etc. These programs are generally quite successful, but are in need of 6 funding. In closing, research demonstrates that there is indeed hope for North Korean refugees, and with the right capital, surely they will be able to have a better life postdefection. 7 References: Chung, S. , & Seo, J. (2007) A Study on Post-traumatic Stress Disorder Among North Korean Defectors and their Social Adjustment in South Korea.Journal of Loss and Trauma, 12, 365-382 Clippinger, M. E. (1981). Kim Chong-il in the North Korean Mass Media: A Study of Semi-Esoteric Communication. Asian Survey, 21(3), 289-309. Jeon, W. , Hong, C. , Lee, C. , Kim, D. K. , Han, M. , & Min, S. (2005). Correlation Between Traumatic Events and Post-traumatic Stress Disorder Among North Korean Defectors in South Korea. Journal of Traumatic Stress, 18(2), 147-154; Kim, H. K. , & Lee, O. J. (2009). A Phenomenological Study on the Experience of North Korean Refugees. Nursing Science Quarterly, 22(1), 85-88 Kim, J. (2010).A Study of the Roles of NGOs for North Korean Refugees' Human Rights. Journal of Immigrant & Refugee Studies, 8. 1, 76-90 Lee, D. (2010). Portrayals of Non-North Koreans in North Korean Textbooks and the Formation of National Identity . Asian Studies Reivew, 34, 349-369. Robinson, W. C. , Lee, M. K. , Hill, K. , Hsu, E. , & Burnham, G. (2001). Demographic Methods to Assess Food Insecurity: a North Korean Case Study. Prehospital and Disaster Medicine, 16(4), 286-291. Yu, S. , Jeon, W. , Cho, Y. , & Eom, J. (2008). Traumatic Experiences and Mental Health of North Korean Refugees in South Korea. Psychiatry Invest, 5, 213-220. 8

The Da Vinci Code Chapter 48-51

CHAPTER 48 Langdon could scarcely believe his own supposition, and yet, considering who had given this stone cylinder to them, how he had given it to them, and now, the inlaid Rose on the container, Langdon could formulate only one conclusion. I am holding the Priory keystone. The legend was specific. The keystone is an encoded stone that lies beneath the sign of the Rose. â€Å"Robert?† Sophie was watching him. â€Å"What's going on?† Langdon needed a moment to gather his thoughts. â€Å"Did your grandfather ever speak to you of something called la clef de voute?† â€Å"The key to the vault?† Sophie translated. â€Å"No, that's the literal translation. Clef de voute is a common architectural term. Voute refers not to a bank vault, but to a vault in an archway. Like a vaulted ceiling.† â€Å"But vaulted ceilings don't have keys.† â€Å"Actually they do. Every stone archway requires a central, wedge-shaped stone at the top which locks the pieces together and carries all the weight. This stone is, in an architectural sense, the key to the vault. In English we call it a keystone.† Langdon watched her eyes for any spark of recognition. Sophie shrugged, glancing down at the cryptex. â€Å"But this obviously is not a keystone.† Langdon didn't know where to begin. Keystones as a masonry technique for building stonearchways had been one of the best-kept secrets of the early Masonic brotherhood. The Royal ArchDegree.Architecture.Keystones.It was all interconnected. The secret knowledge of how to use a wedged keystone to build a vaulted archway was part of the wisdom that had made the Masons such wealthy craftsmen, and it was a secret they guarded carefully. Keystones had always had a tradition of secrecy. And yet, the stone cylinder in the rosewood box was obviously something quite different. The Priory keystone – if this was indeed what they were holding – was not at all what Langdon had imagined. â€Å"The Priory keystone is not my specialty,† Langdon admitted. â€Å"My interest in the Holy Grail is primarily symbologic, so I tend to ignore the plethora of lore regarding how to actually find it.† Sophie's eyebrows arched. â€Å"Find the Holy Grail?† Langdon gave an uneasy nod, speaking his next words carefully. â€Å"Sophie, according to Priory lore, the keystone is an encoded map†¦ a map that reveals the hiding place of the Holy Grail.† Sophie's face went blank. â€Å"And you think this is it?† Langdon didn't know what to say. Even to him it sounded unbelievable, and yet the keystone was the only logical conclusion he could muster. An encrypted stone, hidden beneath the sign of theRose. The idea that the cryptex had been designed by Leonardo Da Vinci – former Grand Master of the Priory of Sion – shone as another tantalizing indicator that this was indeed the Priory keystone. A former Grand Master's blueprint†¦brought to life centuries later by another Priory member.The bond was too palpable to dismiss. For the last decade, historians had been searching for the keystone in French churches. Grail seekers, familiar with the Priory's history of cryptic double-talk, had concluded la clef de voute was a literal keystone – an architectural wedge – an engraved, encrypted stone, inserted into a vaulted archway in a church. Beneath the sign of the Rose.In architecture, there was no shortage of roses. Rose windows.Rosette reliefs.And, of course, an abundance of cinquefoils – the five-petaled decorative flowers often found at the top of archways, directly over the keystone. The hiding place seemed diabolically simple. The map to the Holy Grail was incorporated high in an archway of some forgotten church, mocking the blind churchgoers who wandered beneath it. â€Å"This cryptex can't be the keystone,† Sophie argued. â€Å"It's not old enough. I'm certain my grandfather made this. It can't be part of any ancient Grail legend.† â€Å"Actually,† Langdon replied, feeling a tingle of excitement ripple through him,† the keystone is believed to have been created by the Priory sometime in the past couple of decades.† Sophie's eyes flashed disbelief. â€Å"But if this cryptex reveals the hiding place of the Holy Grail, why would my grandfather give it to me? I have no idea how to open it or what to do with it. I don't even know what the Holy Grail is!† Langdon realized to his surprise that she was right. He had not yet had a chance to explain to Sophie the true nature of the Holy Grail. That story would have to wait. At the moment, they were focused on the keystone. If that is indeed what this is†¦ . Against the hum of the bulletproof wheels beneath them, Langdon quickly explained to Sophie everything he had heard about the keystone. Allegedly, for centuries, the Priory's biggest secret – the location of the Holy Grail – was never written down. For security's sake, it was verbally transferred to each new rising senechal at a clandestine ceremony. However, at some point during the last century, whisperings began to surface that the Priory policy had changed. Perhaps it was on account of new electronic eavesdropping capabilities, but the Priory vowed never again even to speak the location of the sacred hiding place. â€Å"But then how could they pass on the secret?† Sophie asked. â€Å"That's where the keystone comes in,† Langdon explained. â€Å"When one of the top four members died, the remaining three would choose from the lower echelons the next candidate to ascend as senechal.Rather than telling the new senechal where the Grail was hidden, they gave him a test through which he could prove he was worthy.† Sophie looked unsettled by this, and Langdon suddenly recalled her mentioning how her grandfather used to make treasure hunts for her – preuves de merite.Admittedly, the keystone was a similar concept. Then again, tests like this were extremely common in secret societies. The best known was the Masons', wherein members ascended to higher degrees by proving they could keep a secret and by performing rituals and various tests of merit over many years. The tasks became progressively harder until they culminated in a successful candidate's induction as thirty-second- degree Mason. â€Å"So the keystone is a preuve de merite,†Sophie said. â€Å"If a rising Priory senechal can open it, he proves himself worthy of the information it holds.† Langdon nodded. â€Å"I forgot you'd had experience with this sort of thing.† â€Å"Not only with my grandfather. In cryptology, that's called a ‘self-authorizing language. ‘ That is, if you're smart enough to read it, you're permitted to know what is being said.† Langdon hesitated a moment. â€Å"Sophie, you realize that if this is indeed the keystone, your grandfather's access to it implies he was exceptionally powerful within the Priory of Sion. He would have to have been one of the highest four members.† Sophie sighed. â€Å"He was powerful in a secret society. I'm certain of it. I can only assume it was the Priory.† Langdon did a double take. â€Å"You knew he was in a secret society?† â€Å"I saw some things I wasn't supposed to see ten years ago. We haven't spoken since.† She paused. â€Å"My grandfather was not only a ranking top member of the group†¦ I believe he was the top member.† Langdon could not believe what she had just said. â€Å"Grand Master? But†¦ there's no way you could know that!† â€Å"I'd rather not talk about it.† Sophie looked away, her expression as determined as it was pained. Langdon sat in stunned silence. Jacques Sauniere? Grand Master? Despite the astonishing repercussions if it were true, Langdon had the eerie sensation it almost made perfect sense. After all, previous Priory Grand Masters had also been distinguished public figures with artistic souls. Proof of that fact had been uncovered years ago in Paris's Bibliotheque Nationale in papers that became known as Les Dossiers Secrets. Every Priory historian and Grail buff had read the Dossiers.Cataloged under Number 4o lm1 249, the Dossiers Secrets had been authenticated by many specialists and incontrovertibly confirmed what historians had suspected for a long time: Priory Grand Masters included Leonardo Da Vinci, Botticelli, Sir Isaac Newton, Victor Hugo, and, more recently, Jean Cocteau, the famous Parisian artist. Why not Jacques Sauniere? Langdon's incredulity intensified with the realization that he had been slated to meet Sauniere tonight. The Priory Grand Master called a meeting with me.Why? To make artistic small talk? It suddenly seemed unlikely. After all, if Langdon's instincts were correct, the Grand Master of the Priory of Sion had just transferred the brotherhood's legendary keystone to his granddaughter and simultaneously commanded her to find Robert Langdon. Inconceivable! Langdon's imagination could conjure no set of circumstances that would explain Sauniere's behavior. Even if Sauniere feared his own death, there were three senechaux who also possessed the secret and therefore guaranteed the Priory's security. Why would Sauniere take such an enormous risk giving his granddaughter the keystone, especially when the two of them didn't get along? And why involve Langdon†¦ a total stranger? A piece of this puzzle is missing, Langdon thought. The answers were apparently going to have to wait. The sound of the slowing engine caused them both to look up. Gravel crunched beneath the tires. Why is he pulling over already? Langdon wondered. Vernet had told them he would take them well outside the city to safety. The truck decelerated to a crawl and made its way over unexpectedly rough terrain. Sophie shot Langdon an uneasy look, hastily closing the cryptex box and latching it. Langdon slipped his jacket back on. When the truck came to a stop, the engine remained idling as the locks on the rear doors began to turn. When the doors swung open, Langdon was surprised to see they were parked in a wooded area, well off the road. Vernet stepped into view, a strained look in his eye. In his hand, he held a pistol. â€Å"I'm sorry about this,† he said. â€Å"I really have no choice.† CHAPTER 49 Andre Vernet looked awkward with a pistol, but his eyes shone with a determination that Langdon sensed would be unwise to test. â€Å"I'm afraid I must insist,† Vernet said, training the weapon on the two of them in the back of the idling truck. â€Å"Set the box down.† Sophie clutched the box to her chest. â€Å"You said you and my grandfather were friends.† â€Å"I have a duty to protect your grandfather's assets,† Vernet replied. â€Å"And that is exactly what I am doing. Now set the box on the floor.† â€Å"My grandfather entrusted this to me!† Sophie declared. â€Å"Do it,† Vernet commanded, raising the gun. Sophie set the box at her feet. Langdon watched the gun barrel swing now in his direction. â€Å"Mr. Langdon,† Vernet said,† you will bring the box over to me. And be aware that I'm asking you because you I would not hesitate to shoot.† Langdon stared at the banker in disbelief. â€Å"Why are you doing this?† â€Å"Why do you imagine?† Vernet snapped, his accented English terse now. â€Å"To protect my client's assets.† â€Å"We are your clients now,† Sophie said. Vernet's visage turned ice-cold, an eerie transformation. â€Å"Mademoiselle Neveu, I don't know howyou got that key and account number tonight, but it seems obvious that foul play was involved. Had I known the extent of your crimes, I would never have helped you leave the bank.† â€Å"I told you,† Sophie said,† we had nothing to do with my grandfather's death!† Vernet looked at Langdon. â€Å"And yet the radio claims you are wanted not only for the murder of Jacques Sauniere but for those of three other men as well?† â€Å"What!† Langdon was thunderstruck. Three more murders? The coincidental number hit him harder than the fact that he was the prime suspect. It seemed too unlikely to be a coincidence. The three senechaux? Langdon's eyes dropped to the rosewood box. If the senechaux were murdered, Sauniere had no options.He had to transfer the keystone to someone. â€Å"The police can sort that out when I turn you in,† Vernet said. â€Å"I have gotten my bank involved too far already.† Sophie glared at Vernet. â€Å"You obviously have no intention of turning us in. You would have driven us back to the bank. And instead you bring us out here and hold us at gunpoint?† â€Å"Your grandfather hired me for one reason – to keep his possessions both safe and private. Whatever this box contains, I have no intention of letting it become a piece of cataloged evidence in a police investigation. Mr. Langdon, bring me the box.† Sophie shook her head. â€Å"Don't do it.† A gunshot roared, and a bullet tore into the wall above him. The reverberation shook the back of the truck as a spent shell clinked onto the cargo floor. Shit! Langdon froze. Vernet spoke more confidently now. â€Å"Mr. Langdon, pick up the box.† Langdon lifted the box.† Now bring it over to me.† Vernet was taking dead aim, standing on the ground behind the rear bumper, his gun outstretched into the cargo hold now. Box in hand, Langdon moved across the hold toward the open door. I've got to do something! Langdon thought. I'm about to hand over the Priory keystone! As Langdon moved toward the doorway, his position of higher ground became more pronounced, and he began wondering if he could somehow use it to his advantage. Vernet's gun, though raised, was at Langdon's knee level. A well-placed kick perhaps? Unfortunately, as Langdon neared, Vernet seemed to sense the dangerous dynamic developing, and he took several steps back, repositioning himself six feet away. Well out of reach.† Vernet commanded,† Place the box beside the door.† Seeing no options, Langdon knelt down and set the rosewood box at the edge of the cargo hold, directly in front of the open doors. â€Å"Now stand up.† Langdon began to stand up but paused, spying the small, spent pistol shell on the floor beside the truck's precision-crafted doorsill. â€Å"Stand up, and step away from the box.† Langdon paused a moment longer, eyeing the metal threshold. Then he stood. As he did, he discreetly brushed the shell over the edge onto the narrow ledge that was the door's lower sill. Fully upright now, Langdon stepped backward. â€Å"Return to the back wall and turn around.† Langdon obeyed. Vernet could feel his own heart pounding. Aiming the gun with his right hand, he reached now with his left for the wooden box. He discovered that it was far too heavy. I need two hands. Turning his eyes back to his captives, he calculated the risk. Both were a good fifteen feet away, at the far end of the cargo hold, facing away from him. Vernet made up his mind. Quickly, he laid down the gun on the bumper, lifted the box with two hands, and set it on the ground, immediately grabbing the gun again and aiming it back into the hold. Neither of his prisoners had moved. Perfect.Now all that remained was to close and lock the door. Leaving the box on the ground for the moment, he grabbed the metal door and began to heave it closed. As the door swung past him, Vernet reached up to grab the single bolt that needed to be slid into place. The door closed with a thud, and Vernet quickly grabbed the bolt, pulling it to the left. The bolt slid a few inches and crunched to an unexpected halt, not lining up with its sleeve. What's going on? Vernet pulled again, but the bolt wouldn't lock. The mechanism was not properly aligned. The door isn't fully closed! Feeling a surge of panic, Vernet shoved hard against the outside of the door, but it refused to budge. Something is blocking it! Vernet turned to throw full shoulder into the door, but this time the door exploded outward, striking Vernet in the face and sending him reeling backward onto the ground, his nose shattering in pain. The gun flew as Vernet reached for his face and felt the warm blood running from his nose. Robert Langdon hit the ground somewhere nearby, and Vernet tried to get up, but he couldn't see. His vision blurred and he fell backward again. Sophie Neveu was shouting. Moments later, Vernet felt a cloud of dirt and exhaust billowing over him. He heard the crunching of tires on gravel and sat up just in time to see the truck's wide wheelbase fail to navigate a turn. There was a crash as the front bumper clipped a tree. The engine roared, and the tree bent. Finally, it was the bumper that gave, tearing half off. The armored car lurched away, its front bumper dragging. When the truck reached the paved access road, a shower of sparks lit up the night, trailing the truck as it sped away. Vernet turned his eyes back to the ground where the truck had been parked. Even in the faint moonlight he could see there was nothing there. The wooden box was gone. CHAPTER 50 The unmarked Fiat sedan departing Castel Gandolfo snaked downward through the Alban Hills into the valley below. In the back seat, Bishop Aringarosa smiled, feeling the weight of the bearer bonds in the briefcase on his lap and wondering how long it would be before he and the Teacher could make the exchange. Twenty million euro. The sum would buy Aringarosa power far more valuable than that. As his car sped back toward Rome, Aringarosa again found himself wondering why the Teacher had not yet contacted him. Pulling his cell phone from his cassock pocket, he checked the carrier signal. Extremely faint. â€Å"Cell service is intermittent up here,† the driver said, glancing at him in the rearview mirror. â€Å"In about five minutes, we'll be out of the mountains, and service improves.† â€Å"Thank you.† Aringarosa felt a sudden surge of concern. No service in the mountains? Maybe the Teacher had been trying to reach him all this time. Maybe something had gone terribly wrong. Quickly, Aringarosa checked the phone's voice mail. Nothing. Then again, he realized, the Teacher never would have left a recorded message; he was a man who took enormous care with his communications. Nobody understood better than the Teacher the perils of speaking openly in this modern world. Electronic eavesdropping had played a major role in how he had gathered his astonishing array of secret knowledge. For this reason, he takes extra precautions. Unfortunately, the Teacher's protocols for caution included a refusal to give Aringarosa any kind of contact number. I alone will initiate contact, the Teacher had informed him. So keep your phoneclose.Now that Aringarosa realized his phone might not have been working properly, he feared what the Teacher might think if he had been repeatedly phoning with no answer. He'll think something is wrong. Or that I failed to get the bonds. The bishop broke a light sweat. Or worse†¦ that I took the money and ran! CHAPTER 51 Even at a modest sixty kilometers an hour, the dangling front bumper of the armored truck grated against the deserted suburban road with a grinding roar, spraying sparks up onto the hood. We've got to get off the road, Langdon thought. He could barely even see where they were headed. The truck's lone working headlight had been knocked off-center and was casting a skewed sidelong beam into the woods beside the country highway. Apparently the armor in this† armored truck† referred only to the cargo hold and not the front end. Sophie sat in the passenger seat, staring blankly at the rosewood box on her lap. â€Å"Are you okay?† Langdon asked. Sophie looked shaken. â€Å"Do you believe him?† â€Å"About the three additional murders? Absolutely. It answers a lot of questions – the issue of your grandfather's desperation to pass on the keystone, as well as the intensity with which Fache is hunting me.† â€Å"No, I meant about Vernet trying to protect his bank.† Langdon glanced over. â€Å"As opposed to?† â€Å"Taking the keystone for himself.† Langdon had not even considered it. â€Å"How would he even know what this box contains?† â€Å"His bank stored it. He knew my grandfather. Maybe he knew things. He might have decided he wanted the Grail for himself.† Langdon shook his head. Vernet hardly seemed the type. â€Å"In my experience, there are only two reasons people seek the Grail. Either they are naive and believe they are searching for the long-lost Cup of Christ†¦Ã¢â‚¬  â€Å"Or?† â€Å"Or they know the truth and are threatened by it. Many groups throughout history have sought to destroy the Grail.† The silence between them accentuated the sound of the scraping bumper. They had driven a few kilometers now, and as Langdon watched the cascade of sparks coming off the front of the truck, he wondered if it was dangerous. Either way, if they passed another car, it would certainly draw attention. Langdon made up his mind. â€Å"I'm going to see if I can bend this bumper back.† Pulling onto the shoulder, he brought the truck to a stop. Silence at last. As Langdon walked toward the front of the truck, he felt surprisingly alert. Staring into the barrel of yet another gun tonight had given him a second wind. He took a deep breath of nighttime air and tried to get his wits about him. Accompanying the gravity of being a hunted man, Langdon was starting to feel the ponderous weight of responsibility, the prospect that he and Sophie might actually be holding an encrypted set of directions to one of the most enduring mysteries of all time. As if this burden were not great enough, Langdon now realized that any possibility of finding away to return the keystone to the Priory had just evaporated. News of the three additional murders had dire implications. The Priory has been infiltrated.They are compromised.The brotherhood was obviously being watched, or there was a mole within the ranks. It seemed to explain why Sauniere might have transferred the keystone to Sophie and Langdon – people outside the brotherhood, people he knew were not compromised. We can't very well give the keystone back tothe brotherhood.Even if Langdon had any idea how to find a Priory member, chances were good that whoever stepped forward to take the keystone could be the enemy himself. For the moment, at least, it seemed the keystone was in Sophie and Langdon's hands, whether they wanted it or not. The truck's front end looked worse than Langdon had imagined. The left headlight was gone, and the right one looked like an eyeball dangling from its socket. Langdon straightened it, and it dislodged again. The only good news was that the front bumper had been torn almost clean off. Langdon gave it a hard kick and sensed he might be able to break it off entirely. As he repeatedly kicked the twisted metal, Langdon recalled his earlier conversation with Sophie. My grandfather left me a phone message, Sophie had told him. He said he needed to tell me thetruth about my family.At the time it had meant nothing, but now, knowing the Priory of Sion was involved, Langdon felt a startling new possibility emerge. The bumper broke off suddenly with a crash. Langdon paused to catch his breath. At least the truck would no longer look like a Fourth of July sparkler. He grabbed the bumper and began dragging it out of sight into the woods, wondering where they should go next. They had no idea how to open the cryptex, or why Sauniere had given it to them. Unfortunately, their survival tonight seemed to depend on getting answers to those very questions. We need help, Langdon decided. Professional help. In the world of the Holy Grail and the Priory of Sion, that meant only one man. The challenge, of course, would be selling the idea to Sophie. Inside the armored car, while Sophie waited for Langdon to return, she could feel the weight of the rosewood box on her lap and resented it. Why did my grandfather give this to me? She had not the slightest idea what to do with it. Think, Sophie! Use your head. Grand-pere is trying to tell you something! Opening the box, she eyed the cryptex's dials. A proof of merit.She could feel her grandfather's hand at work. The keystone is a map that can be followed only by the worthy.It sounded like her grandfather to the core. Lifting the cryptex out of the box, Sophie ran her fingers over the dials. Five letters.She rotated the dials one by one. The mechanism moved smoothly. She aligned the disks such that her chosen letters lined up between the cryptex's two brass alignment arrows on either end of the cylinder. The dials now spelled a five-letter word that Sophie knew was absurdly obvious. G-R-A-I-L. Gently, she held the two ends of the cylinder and pulled, applying pressure slowly. The cryptex didn't budge. She heard the vinegar inside gurgle and stopped pulling. Then she tried again. V-I-N-C-I Again, no movement. V-O-U-T-E Nothing. The cryptex remained locked solid. Frowning, she replaced it in the rosewood box and closed the lid. Looking outside at Langdon, Sophie felt grateful he was with her tonight. P. S.Find Robert Langdon.Her grandfather's rationale for including him was now clear. Sophie was not equipped to understand her grandfather's intentions, and so he had assigned Robert Langdon as her guide. A tutor to oversee her education. Unfortunately for Langdon, he had turned out to be far more than a tutor tonight. He had become the target of Bezu Fache†¦ and some unseen force intent on possessing the Holy Grail. Whatever the Grail turns out to be. Sophie wondered if finding out was worth her life. As the armored truck accelerated again, Langdon was pleased how much more smoothly it drove. â€Å"Do you know how to get to Versailles?† Sophie eyed him. â€Å"Sightseeing?† â€Å"No, I have a plan. There's a religious historian I know who lives near Versailles. I can't remember exactly where, but we can look it up. I've been to his estate a few times. His name is Leigh Teabing. He's a former British Royal Historian.† â€Å"And he lives in Paris?† â€Å"Teabing's life passion is the Grail. When whisperings of the Priory keystone surfaced about fifteen years ago, he moved to France to search churches in hopes of finding it. He's written some books on the keystone and the Grail. He may be able to help us figure out how to open it and what to do with it.† Sophie's eyes were wary. â€Å"Can you trust him?† â€Å"Trust him to what? Not steal the information?† â€Å"And not to turn us in.† â€Å"I don't intend to tell him we're wanted by the police. I'm hoping he'll take us in until we can sort all this out.† â€Å"Robert, has it occurred to you that every television in France is probably getting ready to broadcast our pictures? Bezu Fache always uses the media to his advantage. He'll make it impossible for us to move around without being recognized.† Terrific, Langdon thought. My French TV debut will be on† Paris's Most Wanted.† At least Jonas Faukman would be pleased; every time Langdon made the news, his book sales jumped. â€Å"Is this man a good enough friend?† Sophie asked. Langdon doubted Teabing was someone who watched television, especially at this hour, but still the question deserved consideration. Instinct told Langdon that Teabing would be totally trustworthy. An ideal safe harbor. Considering the circumstances, Teabing would probably trip over himself to help them as much as possible. Not only did he owe Langdon a favor, but Teabing was a Grail researcher, and Sophie claimed her grandfather was the actual Grand Master of the Priory of Sion. If Teabing heard that, he would salivate at the thought of helping them figure this out. â€Å"Teabing could be a powerful ally,† Langdon said. Depending on how much you want to tell him. â€Å"Fache probably will be offering a monetary reward.† Langdon laughed. â€Å"Believe me, money is the last thing this guy needs.† Leigh Teabing was wealthy in the way small countries were wealthy. A descendant of Britain's First Duke of Lancaster, Teabing had gotten his money the old-fashioned way – he'd inherited it. His estate outside of Paris was a seventeenth-century palace with two private lakes. Langdon had first met Teabing several years ago through the British Broadcasting Corporation. Teabing had approached the BBC with a proposal for a historical documentary in which he would expose the explosive history of the Holy Grail to a mainstream television audience. The BBC producers loved Teabing's hot premise, his research, and his credentials, but they had concerns that the concept was so shocking and hard to swallow that the network might end up tarnishing its reputation for quality journalism. At Teabing's suggestion, the BBC solved its credibility fears by soliciting three cameos from respected historians from around the world, all of whom corroborated the stunning nature of the Holy Grail secret with their own research. Langdon had been among those chosen. The BBC had flown Langdon to Teabing's Paris estate for the filming. He sat before cameras in Teabing's opulent drawing room and shared his story, admitting his initial skepticism on hearing of the alternate Holy Grail story, then describing how years of research had persuaded him that the story was true. Finally, Langdon offered some of his own research – a series of symbologic connections that strongly supported the seemingly controversial claims. When the program aired in Britain, despite its ensemble cast and well-documented evidence, the premise rubbed so hard against the grain of popular Christian thought that it instantly confronted a firestorm of hostility. It never aired in the States, but the repercussions echoed across the Atlantic. Shortly afterward, Langdon received a postcard from an old friend – the Catholic Bishop of Philadelphia. The card simply read: Et tu, Robert? â€Å"Robert,† Sophie asked,† you're certain we can trust this man?† â€Å"Absolutely. We're colleagues, he doesn't need money, and I happen to know he despises the French authorities. The French government taxes him at absurd rates because he bought a historic landmark. He'll be in no hurry to cooperate with Fache.† Sophie stared out at the dark roadway. â€Å"If we go to him, how much do you want to tell him?† Langdon looked unconcerned. â€Å"Believe me, Leigh Teabing knows more about the Priory of Sionand the Holy Grail than anyone on earth.† Sophie eyed him. â€Å"More than my grandfather?† â€Å"I meant more than anyone outside the brotherhood.† â€Å"How do you know Teabing isn't a member of the brotherhood?† â€Å"Teabing has spent his life trying to broadcast the truth about the Holy Grail. The Priory's oath is to keep its true nature hidden.† â€Å"Sounds to me like a conflict of interest.† Langdon understood her concerns. Sauniere had given the cryptex directly to Sophie, and although she didn't know what it contained or what she was supposed to do with it, she was hesitant to involve a total stranger. Considering the information potentially enclosed, the instinct was probably a good one. â€Å"We don't need to tell Teabing about the keystone immediately. Or at all, even. His house will give us a place to hide and think, and maybe when we talk to him about the Grail, you'll start to have an idea why your grandfather gave this to you.† â€Å"Us,†Sophie reminded. Langdon felt a humble pride and wondered yet again why Sauniere had included him. â€Å"Do you know more or less where Mr. Teabing lives?† Sophie asked.† His estate is called Chateau Villette.† Sophie turned with an incredulous look. â€Å"The Chateau Villette?† â€Å"That's the one.† â€Å"Nice friends.† â€Å"You know the estate?† â€Å"I've passed it. It's in the castle district. Twenty minutes from here.† Langdon frowned. â€Å"That far?† â€Å"Yes, which will give you enough time to tell me what the Holy Grail really is.† Langdon paused. â€Å"I'll tell you at Teabing's. He and I specialize in different areas of the legend, so between the two of us, you'll get the full story.† Langdon smiled. â€Å"Besides, the Grail has been Teabing's life, and hearing the story of the Holy Grail from Leigh Teabing will be like hearing the theory of relativity from Einstein himself.† â€Å"Let's hope Leigh doesn't mind late-night visitors.† â€Å"For the record, it's Sir Leigh.† Langdon had made that mistake only once. â€Å"Teabing is quite a character. He was knighted by the Queen several years back after composing an extensive history on the House of York.† Sophie looked over. â€Å"You're kidding, right? We're going to visit a knight?† Langdon gave an awkward smile. â€Å"We're on a Grail quest, Sophie. Who better to help us than a knight?†

Problem Solving Essays - Behavior, Human Behavior, Motivation

Problem Solving Essays - Behavior, Human Behavior, Motivation Problem Solving PROBLEN SOLVING and DECISION MAKING Making a choice between a specific behavior that I would change would be a rather easy decision. The first behavior that I will seriously work on is procrastination. This behavior falls under the managerial skills of problem solving and decision making. Procrastination is a habit of needlessly putting off relevant activities until another day or time. Procrastination is a behavior that I really need to change. I am the type of person who will wait to the last minute to do everything. For example, when I was trying to register for National Louis University, I waited one week before the course start date to begin preparing for enrollment. Why do I do this? I really dont know. It could be a combination of time management, difficulty concentrating, fear and anxiety or negative beliefs. It is important that I change this behavior because it can lead to inconvenience and feeling out of control, or feelings of depression and/or frustration. During the In-Basket assessment exercise procrastination played a big part in why I did so poorly. I literally sat at my desk staring into space as though I were daydreaming. I think this happened because I was put into a situation that I was unfamiliar with and had a time schedule, which had to be met. When I had a visit with my assessor, Mary Ann, the first thing she asked me was if I was a procrastinator. She was able to recognize this from the In Basket exercise. Mary Ann pointed out several areas that I need to work on. The first was my fear of failing. This is true because I have always been the type of person who wants to do my best in everything. The second was time management, which was obvious since I didnt complete the exercise in the required time. My classmates also brought up this point. If I had scanned the memorandums instead of trying to read all of them, I would have completed the exercise and managed my time more effectively. According to the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator, I am categorized as type ISTJ, which is a quintessential dependable, responsible type. Accountability, productivity, and the bottom line drive me. This specific behavior falls under the Sensor category. This answers a lot of questions about why I am a procrastinator. I like to focus on the present and not the future. What I mean by this is that if a task has a suspense date for tomorrow, I will not work on it until tomorrow. I will not work on something that has a future suspense date even if I have nothing else pending. Now that I know that I am a procrastinator, I will take the following steps to change this behavior: 1) Reinforce the desire with action - force myself to act even when I am afraid to act. 2) Seize the moment - follow thoughts with action. 3) Express myself - be confident and never put emotions or ideas on hold even though they may be strictly monitored. 4) Do it today - never put off until tomorrow what I can do today. 5) Time Management - discipline myself to use time wisely. By doing these five things I can overcome this behavior and be a very effective business manager. Bibliography none

Why a bug was used in the Metamorphosis essays

Why a bug was used in the Metamorphosis essays Why a bug chosen for the form of Gregors Metamorphosis Kafka choose the form of a bug for The Metamorphosis because of the perception that a bug is perceived as a mindless systematic creature, a metaphor for the way Gregor lives his life, and acts in society. This short story, by Franz Kafka illustrates how one can get lost in their roles and responsibilities in society, forgetting ones own path and self. This is brought to light through Gregors transformation into a bug. The general knowledge or belief of a bug is that they are both mindless and insignificant. Due to their size, and numbers we can honestly feel indifferent as to if they live or die, and because of how they look and lack of any kind of personality they could easily be deemed flat out undesirable. Bugs in colonies, or hives are mindless drones, much like lemmings sacrificing themselves for the greater good of the colony/queen without question. Despite these things insects are the staple of many ecosystems, it could be said many organisms depend on the existence of these small, and perhaps under appreciated beings. These traits are visible both in society and The Metamorphosis relating to human behavior. It is not uncommon to hear people who work for a large corporation referred to as corporate drones. This comes from the day to day work of sitting in a cubicle, taking orders from supervisors, and sacrificing a small piece of identity for the greater good of the company (Office Space anyone?). Gregor is constantly sacrificing time and any personal gain not only through his work, but for his family as well. On his shoulders alone lays the burden of supporting a four person family, through an unforgiving job, not once questioning his seemingly endless, and depressing situation. Gregors family and friends could not have been more eager to forget about him. Perhaps only the lingering thought of what Gregor on...

#1 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

#1 - Essay Example On the other hand labor relations is the dealings between management and the workers with respect to the employment conditions. â€Å"Most commonly, however, labor relations refer to dealings between management and a workforce that is already unionized, or has the potential to become unionized. Labor relations is thus crucial to industries like autos and airlines with heavily unionized workforces† (Labor Relations, 2009) In most of the times the interests of the organizations and that of the labors would be opposite in direction. The management always keen in maximizing their profit and for that purpose they will compromise the interests of the workers. On the other hand labor unions are always working for the wellbeing of the workers and they are not much concerned about the profit of the organization. For workers what they are getting is more important than what the organization is achieving. Both these interests contradict at times which will end up in strained labor relationships and trade union strikes. In a changing world, especially under globalization and liberalization, a well maintained labor relationship is important for an organization in order to compete in the market. Customers will trust an organization if their product or service supply doesn’t interrupt. Poor labor relationship always results in labor union strikes which will interrupt the production of goods or service. A temporary suspension of service or supply of goods in the market will force the customers to search for other options. Once the customers move away from the organization, it is difficult for the organization to bring them back. Labor problems destroy the image of the organization in the society in which it operates. The public will often take the side of the labors even if the justice is on the other side because of the false assumption that the management always trying to exploit the workers. This public

Cold War Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Cold War - Essay Example Allies disagreed on how the European map ought to be drawn. Western allies desired democratic governments. Independent governments would resolve their differences through international organizations.Defeat of Japan and Potsdam conferenceAfter the defeat of Germany, differences arise on the progress of Germany and the other countries in central and Eastern Europe. Truman announces of their atomic bomb to Stalin. A week after this conference USA bombs Hiroshima and Nagasaki which results in Japan’s unconditional surrender.Formation of eastern blockThe Soviets liberate central and EasternEurope territories from Nazi and make them among the eastern bloc. Stalin maintains control of the eastern bloc through force and secret Soviet police.Preparation of ‘new war’George F Kennan’s telegram from Moscow helped enforce US governments against the Soviets. This telegram became strategic base towards the Soviet Union during the cold war. Soviet respond to George telegra m with Novikov telegram. Soviet accuses the USA as monopoly capitalist and she was building up military capabilities. As the World War 2 came to end, mistrust and suspicion were rampant among states. The major cause of the cold war was dominance and spread of ideologies (communism and capitalism).The Soviet Union wished to spread communism ideology to the whole world. Americans also wanted to spread capitalism worldwide also.The atomic capability of America was a source of major suspicion and fear by the Soviets.

Architecture and the Critique of Ideology Essay

Architecture and the Critique of Ideology - Essay Example In effect, architecture can serve as critique of ideological beliefs as much as it is a testament to it by its design and object. Relating these concepts to that of architecture one realizes that as architecture characterizes ideology it also drives it. Therefore it can be expected that given enough time the ideology that drives the precepts of ideology today will eventually off shoot to contradict it self or diverge to form a totally new ideology. Jameson cites that "The new Utopianism for high modernism thus unwittingly and against the very spirit of its own revolutionary and Utopian affirmations prepared the terrain for the omnipotence of the full "rationalized" technocratic plan" (457). The promotion of ideology needs a high degree of economics and it can not be conclusively be considered a representative of the whole society. Instead, it can be simply driven as the interest of those who control the greatest interest in society (Pinker). For example, the emphasis in the ideal Utopian society may be in the theme of creating a model society but there is an underlying motivation by those who control the construction and organization of the city (Jameson 452). For city administrators, they will likely benefit from the organization by easing management burden. For those constructing the city itself, there are driven by the assumption that the Utopian settings will provide them limitless potential for expansion. This supports Richard Lewis' view that ideology is a practical means of defining society and delineating its identity from that of others (30). By channeling these ideologies in architecture, the ideologies are given concrete and substantial testament when they are adapted or shunned by other cultures. Constraints Karl Marx's view on ideology presented it as the ideas of the ruling class, that legitimate the rule of the bourgeois class, as a means of hiding the true state of social conditions such as oppression and inequality. He believed that these ideologies produced a false sense of consciousness and furthered bourgeois class domination over the disenfranchised in society (Goldman 71). In this way, ideology is structured as the foundation of the state of power in a society giving legitimacy to the action in support of the ideology. At the same time, Marxian ideologies also serve as a contradiction to the existing system particularly in economics (Jameson 450). The distinction of an ideology does not lie on the utility of the ideology but rather should be on the ideas that constitute the ideology itself. Otherwise, the tendency is for the development of far-reaching interpretations that can prompt action against others. According to Ernst Bloch, one of the main dilemmas in the concept of ideology is that when it is "broached from the side of the problem of cultural inheritance, of the problem as to how works of the superstructure progressively reproduce themselves in cultural consciousness even after disappearance of their social bases". Therefore, the ideologies may contain the same core ideas like in the case of religions but the cultural components that influence the practice of the religion and the individuals who practice it create the variances that delineate them

Identify the defining features of Realist perspective and assess their Essay

Identify the defining features of Realist perspective and assess their relevance to the analysis of contemporary world politics - Essay Example This easy explores the defining features of realist perspective such as state actors, egoism, anarchy, power, security, and morality with the aim of presenting an assessment of their relevance to the analysis of contemporary world politics. In their analysis of international politics, realists assert the central role played by the state in dictating international relations as opposed to other theories of international relations like liberalism that accepts international institutions as being part of the actors day (Kegley, 2013). Realists saw the state as triumphant over other forms of political authority like feudal principalities, city-states, and empires such as the Soviet Union. According to the views of realists such as Hobbes, the state enjoys a distinctive monopoly of legitimate violence given that in the global arena, all the people regardless of nationality, language, culture, ethnic background or religion have accepted or have a state that force them to resolve their confli cts. Such a people also look for the state to protect their interests against aggressions from other states and international actors (Kolodziej, 2005). The assertion of the state as the main player in international relations means that actors in the international politics will put the importance of state interest the centre of any interactions with other players in the global area. Realist conception of the state as the central actor in international relations through its exercise of power in certain ways has far-reaching significances on the relationship between states and other actors on the international arena (Kaarbo & Ray, 2011). Such assumptions are essential in the contemporary world politics where such bodies as multinational corporations have no legal or political right to act as independent or autonomous actors in the international economy since they are only part of state power or instrument of foreign policy. Multinational corporations are not in themselves, substantial economic and political force, in their exercise of power and influence, they are only an extension and reflection of the power and might of specific states under which they act (Steans, Pettiford, & El-Anis, 2013). The main concern for realist is the state of anarchy, which stands for a situation where there is no international government to intercede on interstate conflicts. Realist believes that the main concern in international relations is the condition of anarchy, which is based on their view that the world lacks a central sovereign power to regulate relations between states. The absence of international body with the authority to create and enforce regulatory measures on interstate relationships, realists argue, means the states as main players put in place their own scheme for survival and are free to define their own interests and pursuit of power day (Kegley, 2013). Anarchy in the international politics therefore, leads to a circumstance where power has the superseding role of dictating interstate relations (Steans, Pettiford, Diez & El-Anis, 2013). Realists point out the failure of international institutions like the Permanent Court of International Justice and the League of Nation is because such international organizations exert minimal pressure on behaviour of states. This realist assumption is clear in the way contemporary states peruse their interests by choosing to overlook international

Boeotian black figure tripod kothon Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Boeotian black figure tripod kothon - Essay Example The komos is a parade of masked men costumed as satyrs and an occasion of feasting, joyous drinking and dancing.1 According to Maurice Emmanuel, representations of komos was much affected by the painters of vases and the fashion spread over the whole of Hellenistic world, to Boeotia and its kothons.2 The homosexual theme painted on the kothon served its purpose because; the kothon was the preferred drinking-vessel by soldiers taken on campaigns because it is easily carried in a knapsack. Greek men are known to practice pederasty and soldiers were known to fight with their lovers in battle. In the Constitution of the Lacedaemonians, Critias wrote about the vessel: â€Å"The reason why it is so well adapted to military use is that it is often necessary to drink water that is not pure. It is first of all useful because the liquid to be drunk cannot be seen with any clarity.†3 The Boeotian black figure tripod kothon further demonstrates this with its inward turning edges which wou ld inevitably catch a residue of the impurities inside its lip. One man, in dancing depiction, stretches an inviting reach toward the other dancing figures chin in the depiction of hopeful gesture for a romantic response. It appears that the dances are part of Dionysian rites with its revelry and wine-involved dances. Dionysius or his representation, however, is not depicted in the painting. According to Csapo and Miller, it is difficult to establish a connection to Dionysius on the basis of available iconography because the kothon paintings only show general associations such as the use of wine in the ritual and the masked satyrs.4 In the previously cited kothon artifact housed in Staatliche Museen zu Berlin, there is a more detailed depiction of the komos in the Boeotian kothon (see the picture below). In this case, the komos is collocated with a sacrifice ceremony, involving wine-poring, piper playing and

Bushfire risk in Maryborough in Victoria Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Bushfire risk in Maryborough in Victoria - Essay Example Regardless of the positive influence of the fires on the country’s flora and fauna, the extent of the loss of lives and destruction of property in the country is unwarranted thus compelling the country to country to invest millions of dollars with the view of safeguarding the population. Among the most adversely affected states in the country is state of Victoria, which has had a long history of bushfire disasters. The most recent of such disasters in the state was the Black Saturday bushfires, which resulted in more than one hundred and seventy deaths (O’Brien, 2002). To prevent such unwarranted loss of human lives and property, the Victorian state government has instituted several agencies such as the Department of environment and primary industries and the county fire authority both of which work in collaboration to mitigate on such disasters in the future. To do this, the organizations carry out effective risk assessment thus inform their population appropriately wi th the view of preventing the loss of lives and property in case of such fires. Additionally, the authorities strive to curb the fires in case they break out before the result in extensive loss of the country’s flora. ... Risk assessment and planning involves the utilization of varying amount of resources depending on the nature and size of the underlying potential of the risk. Such develops the concept of acceptable risk, which refers to the risk that the community can only accommodate. The cost of implementing an effective countermeasure to such risks is always too great for the community to bear. Furthermore, vulnerability of the countermeasure always exceeds the expected loss, such compel the community to understand and tolerate the prevailing risks (Lerche & Glaesser, 2006). An effective assessment of the risk that the fires present to the local population in the state of Victoria has helped reduce the deaths and magnitude of property damage in the event of such fires. However, the assessment compels the analysis of such factors as the climatic condition and the nature of the vegetative cover in the state. With such, the state authorities can therefore manage the settlement of the people and cont rol the activities of the local communities with the view of reducing the activities that pose threats such as smoking and garbage burning among other uncontrolled fire during the dry months. Sensitization and preparedness helps minimize the destruction of the fires since the local population stay aware of the nature of the prevalence of the fires. Additionally, the state authorities are also therefore capable of carrying out specific measures that help minimize the risk. Risk assessment matrix and methodology The fires vary in size thus pose varying risks to the local community. The varying magnitudes of the risks thus validate the use of a risk matrix, which

Personal essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words - 2

Personal - Essay Example I also know the wonderful feeling of having a great smile given to you through excellent dental care. At the age of fifteen, when my orthodontist removed my braces, I finally had my new smile, and my orthodontist took great pride of his work. I can never thank enough to my orthodontist for his great work, and I ended up choosing this career since then. My decision to pursue in dentistry field was based on series of important events over the years. I want to help people who want to get treatment but do not have enough money. My attraction to dentistry began about twelve years ago when I started visiting my dentist, and seeing an inner working of the field and that is when everything started to fall into place. During my high school years, I took pride of winning star and honor club awards for mathematics and excellent attendance with good GPA. I took pride in winning awards, team and community involvement which gave me great confidence in my ability. To make sure my choice was right; I spent number of days with my uncle in India, who is general dentist, when I was thirteen. I was fascinated that patients who were in lots of pain left office with great smiles on their faces. I grew confident about my decision to attend dental school after consulting with people in the field. Through professionals such as my orthodontists, my great uncle and other dental personnel I came to know that this was the industry for me. As I started my first year of college, I began with working in pharmacy and volunteer organization. Working in the pharmacy allowed me to help patients by preparing their medications, helping with insurance claim forms, and maintaining their profiles. As pharmacy technician, I developed really good customer service skills by interacting with customers and playing large role in their personal health care plans. Coupled with my dedication to dental work is my belief in building understanding, caring relationships with each

Bushfire risk in Maryborough in Victoria Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Bushfire risk in Maryborough in Victoria - Essay Example Regardless of the positive influence of the fires on the country’s flora and fauna, the extent of the loss of lives and destruction of property in the country is unwarranted thus compelling the country to country to invest millions of dollars with the view of safeguarding the population. Among the most adversely affected states in the country is state of Victoria, which has had a long history of bushfire disasters. The most recent of such disasters in the state was the Black Saturday bushfires, which resulted in more than one hundred and seventy deaths (O’Brien, 2002). To prevent such unwarranted loss of human lives and property, the Victorian state government has instituted several agencies such as the Department of environment and primary industries and the county fire authority both of which work in collaboration to mitigate on such disasters in the future. To do this, the organizations carry out effective risk assessment thus inform their population appropriately wi th the view of preventing the loss of lives and property in case of such fires. Additionally, the authorities strive to curb the fires in case they break out before the result in extensive loss of the country’s flora. ... Risk assessment and planning involves the utilization of varying amount of resources depending on the nature and size of the underlying potential of the risk. Such develops the concept of acceptable risk, which refers to the risk that the community can only accommodate. The cost of implementing an effective countermeasure to such risks is always too great for the community to bear. Furthermore, vulnerability of the countermeasure always exceeds the expected loss, such compel the community to understand and tolerate the prevailing risks (Lerche & Glaesser, 2006). An effective assessment of the risk that the fires present to the local population in the state of Victoria has helped reduce the deaths and magnitude of property damage in the event of such fires. However, the assessment compels the analysis of such factors as the climatic condition and the nature of the vegetative cover in the state. With such, the state authorities can therefore manage the settlement of the people and cont rol the activities of the local communities with the view of reducing the activities that pose threats such as smoking and garbage burning among other uncontrolled fire during the dry months. Sensitization and preparedness helps minimize the destruction of the fires since the local population stay aware of the nature of the prevalence of the fires. Additionally, the state authorities are also therefore capable of carrying out specific measures that help minimize the risk. Risk assessment matrix and methodology The fires vary in size thus pose varying risks to the local community. The varying magnitudes of the risks thus validate the use of a risk matrix, which

Product Life Cycle Essay Example for Free

Product Life Cycle Essay INTERNATIONAL PRODUCT LIFE CYCLE The international product life cycle is a theoretical model describing how an industry evolves over time and across national borders. This theory also charts the development of a company’s marketing program when competing on both domestic and foreign fronts. International product life cycle concepts combine economic principles, such as market development and economies of scale, with product life cycle marketing and other standard business models. The four primary elements of the international product life cycle theory are: the structure of the demand for the product, manufacturing, international competition and marketing strategy, and the marketing strategy of the company that invented or innovated the product. These elements are categorized depending on the product’s stage in the traditional product life cycle. Introduction, growth, maturity, and decline are the stages of the basic product life cycle. During the introduction stage, the product is new and not completely understood by most consumers. Customers that do understand the product may be willing to pay a higher price for a cutting-edge good or service. Production is dependent on skilled laborers producing in short runs with rapidly changing manufacturing methods. The innovator markets mostly domestically, occasionally branching out to sell the product to consumers in other developed countries. International competition is usually nonexistent during the introduction stage, but during the growth stage competitors in developed markets begin to copy the product and sell domestically. These competitors may also branch out and begin exporting, often starting with the county that initially innovated the product. The growth stage is also marked by an emerging product standard based on mass production. Price wars often begin as the innovator breaks into an increasing amount of developed countries, introducing the product to new and untapped markets. At some point, the product enters the maturity stage of the international product life cycle and even the global marketplace becomes saturated, meaning that almost everyone who would buy the product has bought it, either from the innovating company or one of its competitors. Businesses compete for the rema ining consumers through lowered prices and advanced product features. Production is stable, with a focus on cost-cutting manufacturing methods, so that lowered prices may be passed on to value-conscious consumers. Product innovators must guard both foreign  and domestic markets from international competition, while finally breaking into riskier developing markets in search of new customers. When the product reaches the decline stage, the innovators may move production into these developing countries in an effort to boost sales and keep costs low. During decline, the product may become obsolete in most developed countries, or the price is driven so low that the market becomes close to 100% saturated.

Use Of Technology In Task-Based Language Learning

Use Of Technology In Task-Based Language Learning A RESEARCH PAPER  ON  RESEARCH ON THE USE OF TECHNOLOGY IN TASK-BASED LANGUAGE LEARNING 1. INTRODUCTION It is well known that our life is extremely affected by technology, and technology plays an important role in language learning. With the spread and development of English around the world, English is used as a second language. This paper studies on the use of technology in task-based for learning English as a foreign language (EFL). A task is defined by Jane Willis (1996) an activity where the target language is used by the learner for a communicative goal so as to succeed a result. The learners start with the task. Task is used as a symbol for different activities including grammar exercises, practice activities and role plays. Tasks may involve solving a word problem, creating a crossword puzzle, making a video, preparing a presentation or drawing a plan. According to Rod Ellis (2007), ‘Task’ which has four main characteristics: à ¯Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ã‚ ¢ Task involves a primary focus on (pragmatic) meaning.à ¯Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ã‚ ¢ Task has some kind of ‘gap’.à ¯Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ã‚ ¢ The participants choose the linguistic resources needed to complete the task.à ¯Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ã‚ ¢ Task has a clearly defined outcome. Task based learning is a different method to learn languages. Task-based learning emphasizes the main role of meaning in language use. Skehan (1998) implies that meaning is primary in task-based learning †¦the assessment of the task is in terms of result and that TBL is not ‘concerned with language display’ (98). In the task-based learning, the tasks show basic the learning activity. As cited by Prabhu (1987), students can learn more efficiently when their minds are headed towards on the task, sooner than on the language they are using. Doughty, Long (2003) and Willis (1996) assert that Task-based language learning (TBLL) method supports discussion of meaning using ‘meaning-focused’ and ‘communicative’ task completed activities and gives students the chance to practice language extensively within a meaningful context, attractive students in the ‘authentic,’ ‘pragmatic, and contextual production of language’, where language production is not the aim but ‘the vehicle for attending task goals’ (p.25). In other words, TBL has the advantage of getting student to use his/her skills and can help the students learn language easily and effectively. Willis (1996) explains that the main events of the three phases in task-based learning: Pre-task can include brainstorming; ‘Introduction to topic and task:Teacher explores the topic with the class, highlights useful words and phrases, helps students understand task instructions and prepare.’ Task cycle shows us; ‘Task: Students do the task, in pairs or small groups. Teacher monitors from a distance. Planning: Students prepare to report to the whole class (orally or in writing) how they did the task, what they decided or discovered. Report: Some groups present their reports to the class, or exchange written reports and compares results.’ Language focus shows form and ask questions about language features; ‘Analysis: Students examine and discuss specific features of the text or transcript of the recording. Practice: Teacher conducts practice or new words, phrases and patterns occurring in the data, either during or after the analysis (p.38).’ TBLL provides some important benefits. Task based language learning (TBLL) has the benefit of getting the student to use her/his skills at her current level. Krahne (1987) said that ‘During the task the learners are allowed to use whatever language they want, focus entirely on the meaning of their message. This makes it closer to real life communicative situation, which is a way of bringing the real world into classroom TBL that involves real communication is necessary for language learning.’ Moreover, task-based language learning which helps to realize the language in context and to use it in condition in real life. Willis (1996) has also emphasised the importance of a real world for tasks. The aim of the task is to create a real goal for language use and provide a natural context for language study. It provides the language learner with an active role in participating and creating the events. TBLL offers more chances for the students to show their thinking through thei r movements so it contributes to progress by encouraging students to lesson. Furthermore, students are more success in the language they use. It presents cooperative support. Students can work together, so task-based increases students’ motivation for learning. Task-based learning can be very successful at intermediate levels. It is difficult to primary levels students. In spite of benefits of task-based learning, there are many disadvantages of task-based learning, such as: According to Skehan (1996), task-based learning comprehends some risks if fulfilled carelessly. Task-based learning requires a high level of creativity on the part of the teacher. For instance, If the teachers are limited to more traditional roles or do not have time and resources to device task-based learning this type of teaching maybe difficult. Evaluation of task-based learning can be difficult. ‘The nature of task-based learning prevents it from being measurable by some of the more restricted and traditional tests (Krahne 1987).’ The use of technology suggestions important advantages for task-based language learning and it plays a positive role in TBLL. Chapelle (2001), Gonzolez-Lloret (2003) said that ‘The arrival of information technology has improved the quality of many scientific disciplines, including some language education and learning through technology has become a real life’ (p.84). Technology has enormous effect in task-based language learning, as a resource for EFL and as a means for communication between the EFL students. In addition, TBLL provides the basic technology for supporting learners to obtain major communication skills in the English language. Each technological tool has its specific benefits and application with important of four language parts. These are speaking, listening, reading and writing. That is to say, Ybarra and Green (2003) indicate that students trying to learn English as a second language need additional language support. They need to practice in hearing lang uage, reading language, speaking language, and writing language so as to develop their experience and skills. I believe that students can learn easily and effectively with use of technology in task-based language learning. Technological tools which can be taken advantage of the task-based language learning. Task based learning is useful for moving the motivation of the learning process from the teach ­er to the student. It gives a different way of understanding language for the students. Because of this, the students can be a better learner. When the students are a better learner, they can motivate themselves and solve their problems. Thus, motivational factor is significant in one’s achievement. RESEARCH QUESTION 1- How can we explore the benefits of task-based language learning in EFL students?