Saturday, August 31, 2019

Knowledge of Theory Essay

Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity. Therefore Physical, mental and social is the three different types of well-beings of health.  Physical health: Physical fitness is good bodily health, and is the result of regular exercise, proper diet and nutrition, and proper rest for physical recovery. A good height, weight is very good, is generally increased by improving nutrition and health care, and is also influenced by the standard of living and quality of life. Mental health: Mental health is a concept that refers to a human individual’s emotional and psychological well-being. One way to think about mental health is by looking at how effectively and successfully a person functions. Capable and competent, being able to handle normal levels of stress, maintain satisfying relationships, and lead an independent life.  Social health: Social health is if your social life is good, if you don’t have problems with your sport partners, and no problems of money, basically social health is if you have a good life, and you don’t have many problems with friends and family. Have friends that you can be open with, etc†¦ Fitness can be defined as the capacity to carry out the day’s activities without undue fatigue.  Physical fitness has two meanings: general fitness (a state of health and well-being) and specific fitness (a task-oriented definition based on the ability to perform specific aspects of sports or occupations). Physical fitness is the capacity of the heart, blood vessels, lungs, and muscles to function at optimum efficiency.  General fitness: Physical fitness is the result of regular exercise, proper diet and nutrition, and proper rest for physical recovery within the parameters allowed by the genome. Components:  Stamina:- to maintain effort (both cardiovascular and muscular) ; with stamina in football you last longer while you playing a match and it makes you play the game better.  Strenght:- to deal with the efforts and loads placed on the body ; with strenght you’ll be able to tackle the ball and the reverse player harder and with more power.  Supplness:- to move joints through their full range ; you’ll be more agil while you doing skills in football.  Speed:- to contract muscles quickly and slowly ; you’ll run faster than your opponent while you playing football. Specific fitness: Specific or task-oriented fitness is a person’s ability to perform in a specific activity with a reasonable efficiency. Specific training prepares athletes to perform good in their sports.In all the sessions I worked with Habib, he was my circuit training partner. During some session we had some interruptions from some people. The first session was the hardest one, but after the session it started to get easier.  I think I can do better then this, I progressed in all the sessions, but not that much in the push-ups, I think I progressed in almost all the sessions because I have been working harder each circuit. In all my lesson it were almost all the same, I worked always with Habib and was very easy .  Session 1- I worked with Habib and it was a bit difficult doing this circuit at the first time. There was lots of pupils †messing around†.  Session 2- I worked with Habib again and it was much easier to do the circuit this time, there were some disturbances during the circuit.  Session 3-I worked with Habib and was a good circuit with less interruption then the last time.  Session 4 -I worked with Habib once again and it was similar as the last circuit in terms of behaviour. But it was much easier to do the exercises.  Session 5-I worked with Habib for the last time , the behaviour terms were good and I had to do ma best in the exercises and I did. Planning  I think I didn’t use any pre-test results. I think that the training should have been harder den what it was. I applied some of the training in my circuit. They were specified to my sport, the sport that I choose was football .I used all the best sections that I think that would apply better to my specific sport.  Performing  I progressed in almost all my sessions of my circuit, but there was one that I didn’t progress that much. The keep-ups, bench raisers. I did all my session for 11min and a rest of 30s. After that I improved a lot in each of the exercises witch is a example that the circuit training resulted and that is worth doing it. Monitoring  Over the 5 week my skills in the types of session that I choose improved a lot, the heart rate and the rovery rate stayed the same. Witch is a good result an that shows a bit of improvement and that shows if you do the circuit training properly the results will be great.  Final Evaluation  My circuit training was good, but not successful enough, because it based in my sport but if it had more sessions it could be improved more. My training was more based in my legs, and my legs work improved a bit. My skills improved a lot and I enjoyed doing this type of circuit. This is very useful to be done in footbal beciuse there is evidence it improves the players skills.

Friday, August 30, 2019

Comparative study between Blade Runner & Frankenstein Essay

Victor’s attitude is reactionary and domineering as he ostracises the Creature and employs diabolic epithets towards him such as ‘daemon’, completely disregarding the value of responsibility prevalent in Shelley’s era the perpetual darkness enveloping the ambient world echoes the ecological concerns of deforestation and global warming of the 1980s and thereby Blade Runner parallels Frankenstien insofar as both Shelley and Scott admonishes the disregard for nature as a reflection of shifting values toward artificial compromise. Pathetic fallacy of ‘the dreary glaciers are my refuge’ mimics the Creature’s isolation to convey the inherent role of nature in Shelley’s Romantic context as weather supplements his emotions. gothic conventions of heightened emotions are embodied with the Creature’s exaltation anthropomorphised nature ‘My spirits were elevated by the changing appearance of nature’, which values the subli me’s ability to inspire spiritual renewal. Intertextual ‘Immortal Game’ where Roy outplays Tyrell, symbolic of Tyrell’s eventual demise as a ramification for usurping God’s omnipotence. rapid technological progression of the 1980s forward, to represent a society where empathy has been replaced by pervasive commoditization. Scott incorporates the idea of people as commodities suggested by Roy labelled as a ‘prize’ embodies a cautionary message through a foreboding biblical reference to Lucifer, â€Å"you seek knowledge†¦may be a serpent to sting you’ to reinforce the irony of Victor’s prolonged toil of pursuing more knowledge with little benefit. Hence, Victor’s unchecked scientific investigation is depicted as ultimately self-destructive and to that end, Shelley induces us to appreciate the need for moderation by exposing the complications of intellectual extremism. ‘I ought to be thy Adam, but I am rather the fallen angel’ Here, the Creature’s rational lexis is juxtaposed with Victor’s insect imagery â€Å"Begone! Vile insect†, whereby the Creature’s developed sense of morality in comparison to Victor’s tyrannical behaviour reflects Shelley’s concerns of morally deficient humans and by extension; Shelley berates the use of oppression as a means of governance.

Thursday, August 29, 2019

Amicis East Coast Pizzeria

Amici’s East Coast Pizzeria started in the year 1987 and was founded by Cooperstein and Mike Forter. The company serves East Coast style thin-crusted pizza that has homemade sauce, a high-quality cheese from the Wisconsin as well as artisan topping. The organization began at San Mateo with just a wooden burning ovens and a thin crusted East coast style pizza. Over the years the company grew from East Coast to West Coast where the chain grew to twelve in San Francisco Bay region over a period of twenty-three years. In the year 2001 the company was regarded as the number one independent pizza chain in the US, and by the year 2011, the revenues had significantly grown to thirty-two million dollars having over three hundred employees. Comparison to other pizza chains the organization had been ranked position 70 nationally. In this case study analysis, it aims to examine some question. The first question is to explain on Amici’s business model. Secondly, what are the drivers that have been employed in this organization to make it successful based on the 7-s model. Lastly, it will explore on the strategy for the growth that could be used by Amici’s moving forward. The business models is essentially a strategy that is employed by Amici's company to use in generation of revenue from the products or perhaps the services they are offering. Amaci’s company uses some strategy to generate the most profit. The model they have used helps to determine the sales and the marketing strategies of the company during branding, pricing and sales channels. One of the strategies that the firm uses is to promote dine in service in their comfort and well-appointed restaurant that account for forty percent of their sales; they support delivery service about 50 percent of the sales and some takeout business that accounts for ten percent of the sales. This strategy has enabled the company to become number one in ranking regarding Pizza today on top one hundred free lists for four consecutive years. The company has differentiated on their products based on the quality and services. Their business model was scalable, as long as their business grew in a manner th at is quiet but steady to ensure the high quality would help them distinguish their restaurant could be maintained. Additionally for strategy growth the company has embarked on charity to enable the children from low-income families to go to the Summer Camp. This has allowed the average families’ income to experience on the summer camp to gain exposure to life-changing the power of a field. Through this, the company has provided more than 1500 summer experiences with the partner camps to children who have limited access to the recreational activities. The use of this model is based on a theory for an organization to perform well. The seven elements need to be aligned and mutually reinforced. This model ensures that the team works efficiently and reach the desired endpoint.   The first driver for the success of the organization is the strategy. Amici’s company strategy is aligned to provide high-quality product and services through differentiating on their product with the right team. The largest pizza they have is more than three dollars than the competitors but the high quality is what the consumers were looking for, and they have done this over the years. Shared value is the second driver for the company. The shared value for the company has been the development of a brand that is within the community transplanted East Coasters through careful and steady growth. The third driver is the system driver that is used by the company. The company employs triple threat operation system in the organization. This entails delivery, dine in and take out for the customer. [3]The next driver is the structure of the organization. The company has grown to 12 chains in San Francisco Bay Area over 23 years. The structure of the company is to open chains in both East and West Coast. The chain of command comes from the management, and the decision is laid from the top to bottom to the junior employees. The style of leadership that has been seen in the company is decentralized. The employees make their decision based on the best quality of product, which is expected by the owners. The owners allow employ to make their decision but should be aligned with their values and mission that is pegged on quality, service and a steady and gradual growth of the company. The skills and the competencies that are exhibited by the employees are top notch. The employs aim to offer the best quality of products as well as services than the competitor's company to enable the employs to come again. Amici’s general approach could be the cost leadership. This involves minimization of the costs to produce products at low prices. In the event, the price is lower the company will offer relatively cheaper products as a comparison to the competitors. Moreover, a broader diversification as the secondary generic strategy would be much useful. This would involve further developing new products that are distinct from the competitors. The organization should use the broad differentiation strategy as a way to move forward. Cunningham, Lawrence A, Torkell T Eide, and Patrick Hargreaves, Quality Investing, 1st edn, 2016. Hader, Richard, "Strategies for Profitable Growth", Nursing Management (Springhouse), 39 (2008), 22-26 https://doi.org/10.1097/01.numa.0000335254.31413.f0 Naeem, Zafar, Jack Fuchs, and Victoria Chang, "Amici's East Coast Pizzeria", California Management Review, 55 (2013), 153-165 https://doi.org/10.1525/cmr.2013.55.3.153 Sheehan, Norman T., "Pizza, Pizza, Pizza: A Competitive Strategy Exercise", Organization Management Journal, 11 (2014), 40-46 https://doi.org/10.1080/15416518.2014.897928

Wednesday, August 28, 2019

Real Reel Term Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Real Reel - Term Paper Example The sun was already high. The temperature had risen to a high 110 degrees. I was sweating profusely but I was determined to learn how to ride a bike on that day. I cannot give up just because of the heat or the exhaustion I was already feeling. I know my companions are equally tired but not even they can stop me from attaining my goal. Hallie, our neighbor and my best friend who was of the same age as I was, patiently took the responsibility of being my tutor. We were ten. She lent me her purple pink bike. Hallie has a brother who was seven years old at that time and I have a little sister who was eight and a half years old. As responsible brothers and sisters, we became their babysitters during the summer. Since they were not too young to play with us, Hallie and I decided to bring them along as she taught me how to ride a bike. Our siblings were ecstatic at the thought of playing outdoors. At first, the two younger ones enthusiastically cheered with Hallie as I tried to balance mys elf on the machine with two wheels. â€Å"You can do it, Jordan.† â€Å"That’s it, Jordan. Just try to balance yourself†, Jon and Lauren cried, imitating Hallie. Every now and then, they would follow my friend and hold the bike for me as I try another attempt of driving it. â€Å"You can do it†, was their never ending words of encouragement. ... Yet, learning how to ride the bike was really difficult for me. Thus, even if I did not want to stop my practice, I had to let the two kids ride the bike also to take their boredom and exasperation away. Since they did not know how to ride a bike too, Hallie and I exchanged turns in assisting them. In this task, I realized how difficult it has been for everyone to be holding the bike and running, holding a grip on the bike to keep me balanced as I try again and again to ride. This made me more determined and when I got back on the bike, I requested them not to assist me. â€Å"Let’s see how I can learn on my own†, I said not because I did not want their help but because I knew that I was beginning to burden them.. Nevertheless, my expectations that the task at hand was easy proved to be wrong. I hardly can balance myself on the bike contrary to how easy I perceived it to be. I fell numerous times, I incurred many scratches from the fall and I begun to feel ashamed of my self. Here I was, learning to do a simple task that I can hardly perfect. I am being taught by a girl when I was supposed to be the one teaching her. Suddenly, as if everything fell into place, I was able to ride without falling. Something like a light bulb in my head lit and I instinctively knew what to do in order to maintain my balance. â€Å"I can ride the bike!† I shouted as Hallie, Jon and Lauren came running towards me. I was reeling with excitement that I did not notice a white BMW coming my way. Being alerted by my friend, I did pop a wheelie and was able to safely get back on my track to where my friends were, jumping feom joy. Indeed, it was not just a celebration for me, being able

Tuesday, August 27, 2019

Quality management of clothing Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1500 words

Quality management of clothing - Essay Example Across the world in all industries there is a heightened awareness that quality management goes hand in hand with the realization that quality has a cultural dimension and to attain quality, a culture change is a primary requirement (Dale et al 1997). Though measures like Total Quality Management (TQM) are vigorously undertaken by textile manufactures, half way through the implementation level the programs often run out of steam. Dean and Evans (1994) feel that this problem can be remedied by the development of appropriate culture of quality with in the entire edifice of the organization. Attempts at improving quality in the textile sector have not yielded desired results in the past. Academic research in this area has shown that the failure is largely due to the attempt at improving quality targeting only on the operational level of the industry. Present day research shows that quality management to be effective in real time practice has to be integrated in the organization’s strategy. Beckford (1998) complains that the traditional remedial attempts were aimed at the operational level. . He pointed out that operational constrains eventually lead to compromise in quality. A three fold strategy (derived from Joseph Juran) will influence the organization across the board is put forward by him (Beckford 1998.P.107) Though quality is cardinal in clothing industry for achieving success, it is not any more possible to bask in the glory of the image of the country as a nation, which manufactured products of historic brand equity. Though country of origin image is still valued in the case of heavy equipments, in the textile sector it has become old wives tales. Instead of talking about countries of origin, customers have started taking about countries of origin of brands (Pay and Predergast 2000). Many factors have contributed in the shift of scenario. In the past only products moved from one country to another. Recently capital as well as entire factories

Monday, August 26, 2019

Case 15.1 Study Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

15.1 - Case Study Example n their locality and apart from a place to work out it also lets them socialize with local community people, saves time and cost of traveling because if the gym is located far and customers need to drive long to reach the place, they lose motivation for fitness fast. Also that they can use their membership in any of the Snap Fitness centers makes it more convenient for them to work out wherever they are be it office or home or any other place and do not have to skip working out because of location. In today’s stressful society convenience is given utmost priority by customers in choosing a service or product. However I do not think this is the only advantage Snap Fitness is offering its members, its affordable membership and no contracts only monthly membership fees and easy manage franchises also add to its appeal to both members as well as franchisees and give a competitive edge over its rivals. For Snap Fitness the most appropriate Franchise system would be the Business Format Franchise, because it is a service they are selling and Snap Fitness has a unique business model for both its franchisees and its members. In this format Snap Fitness needs to provide Franchisee with its unique business formula, training, advertising, equipment and other assistance. It can use an area franchise agreement that allows the franchisee in a geographical area to own and operate a given number of franchises that is Snap Fitness centers (Barringer and Ireland, 516). In its franchisees, the characteristics Snap Fitness is looking for are that Franchisees are able to deliver its members its unique business model, must be able to handle billing and collecting processes, Franchisees should be able to maintain the company’s lean business model and have financial net worth of $250, 000 and $500,000 in Liquid assets and that Franchisees are able to deliver on the â€Å"must haves† list prepared by Pete Taunton. As the business requires normal working hours and can be managed

THE IMAGE OF GOD IN MAN Research Proposal Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

THE IMAGE OF GOD IN MAN - Research Proposal Example 3. The image of God is manifested in each and every person regardless of religious orientation and belief. Need for the Study The aim of the study is to proffer issues that would deepen one’s understanding on the statement that man was created in the image and likeness of God (Genesis 1: 26 – 28). Having been explained in various literatures, the meaning of the â€Å"image of God† is presented in discussing the difference between man and other creations of God, particularly animals. Further, one would seek to determine if any violation from the factors signifying man’s being created in God’s image would that necessarily defy man’s existence as being created out of God’s image. For instance, if man commits sin with utter disregard for conscience, does that mean that the statement does not apply to him, in particular? Procedure of the Study The study would be conducted using various secondary sources of information of the topic. The sour ces would be authoritative and scholarly and would present balanced and unbiased views of the authors on the subject. If the time would allow, some primary information could be solicited through simple interviews of acquaintances and people from various walks of life regarding their personal points of views and perception of the topic.

Sunday, August 25, 2019

Marriage Interview Term Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Marriage Interview - Term Paper Example This paper will highlight the questions discussed in the interview and an analysis of the answers that the interviewee provided. From the interview, it became clear that the foundation of the couple’s relationship has largely determined the stability level of their marriage. Agnes related how she met the man whom she agreed to marry three years later. According to her, she liked the composure, honesty, and maturity that were evident in her husband when they met. However, she delved further into describing the attributes that led her into the conviction that she had found a worthwhile partner. The three years of dating helped her establish whether the two of them were compatible and it revealed the patience and resilience that they had in making their relationship work (Chitambira, & Chitambira, 2011). During this period, they discussed their goals and dreams in order to understand each other’s personal interests. Agnes mentioned the most important aspects that a couple should discuss during dating. In her opinion, setting out how a couple will manage their finances when they are married is a central issue. In addition, a couple should understand the extended family and set boundaries for their intrusion into their marriage. Agnes revealed that she only moved into her husband’s apartment after their marriage. Unlike many couples, Agnes mentioned that not much has surprised her in their marriage because she was well aware that marriage often brings the unexpected. With this prior knowledge, the two of them were ready to live up to their commitment. Although challenges were to come their way, they had built the three most important pillars of their relationship. She mentions these as honest and effective communication, understanding, and trust. Agnes mentioned that these pillars have existed from the period of dating and the presence of these gives her faith that they can triumph over anything that comes their way (Parrott, & Parrott, 2006). A gnes admitted that they have been numerous challenges in their marriage. Only three years into her marriage, her husband lost his job. At the time, the couple’s son was only two months old. As a wife and mother, she had to make sacrifices for the family to survive one of the critical economic times. Her resilience and commitment were under test during this time. The couple gave each other immense support during this time and considered other avenues of making a living instead of relying on employment. After careful consideration, the couple invested their savings into her business. The hardest time of their marriage life produced the best outcome as Agnes describes. Currently, the couple has streams of businesses and has a level of security in the future. According to her, the financial constraint that resulted would have compromised their marriage, but they decided to make something positive out of it (McDonald, and McDonald, 2008). The couple has had other minor challenges, but they have managed to stick to each other. The story of their success seems impossible in a world where divorces are becoming a common procedure. Agnes mentioned that a couple should enter into marriage open-minded. According to her, a couple should be ready for challenges because they are inevitable. In addition, she highlighted the fact that each partner should have readiness of making sacrifices

Saturday, August 24, 2019

Comparison of the constraining factors of local employment Essay

Comparison of the constraining factors of local employment law(national law) between USA and UK - Essay Example UK, like the other economies in the world, has also suffered an economic decline because of the economic crisis, much more due to its exposure in the financial sector. (CIA world Factbook). Because of this, the country was pressed into a recession in the middle of 2008. Labor has been affected because unemployment rate stepped up to 7.9% in 2010 as against 7.6 %in 2009. As shown in table below, the year 2011 has the highest unemployment rate in UK since 2003. Fig. 1. Unemployment rate in UK Source: CIA World Factbook, cited in Index Mundi Political environment Workers in UK are protected by the employment law. UK implements a national minimum wage amount of ?6.08 per hour to workers above 21, while ?4.98 is paid to workers with ages 18-20. Wage rate is much lower to 16-17 that is ?3.68S and for apprentice rate is ?2.60.how below are the entitlement of workers under this law. Working hours in UK should not exceed 48 hours, but there are instances that exempt certain class of workers f rom this. Doctors, domestic servants, police and army personnel and those engaged in emergency work are exempted in48 hours rule. All workers are entitled to holiday pay of 5.6 weeks paid annual leave, sick leave, of 5.5 times, rest breaks and overtime pay. These privileges are stipulated in an employment contract that has a term expiry. Sunday is a work day in UK (direct.gov.) Immigration rules. All foreign workers eager to work in UK must obtain a working permit. To qualify, applicant must qualify in the points based system for immigration for work based categories. Investors, entrepreneurs and exceptionally talented person, called as high-value migrants should pass the point system, and they are welcome to UK without the need for job offers. Other qualifications to work in UK are being a skilled worker, temporary worker, domestic worker, or representative of an overseas firm, broadcasting firm or a newspaper organization (UK Border Agency) Demographics Population of UK as of 2011 is 62,678,362. Age structure of working group is divided into 15-64 age bracket with male having 20,979,000 and female 20,500,000. With a labor force of 31.45 million part of this belong to women labor (CIA World Factbook, 2011). The constraint for employment is found to be the gender gap of pay that becomes barriers to women working in occupations traditionally done by men. According to Facts Fawcett society, the gender pay gap is estimated at 15.5% that could be worth L15 to L23 billion. The study of this society showed that 64% of lowest paid workers are women, and many of them are doing part-time work which is paid lower than the hourly rate work. 2. United States Economy The United States has a market oriented economy wherein businesses, organizations and individuals are allowed to make their own decisions while the federal government buys goods and services in the marketplace. US enjoy flexibility in management as compared to other countries and they can expand capital plant, develop new products and lay off surplus workers. Economic The economic crisis is one of the major constraints in local employment in the US labor market because as shown in the chart below, the unemployment rate has continued to rise up to 9.7% in 2010. Source: Bureau of Labor & Statistics.

Friday, August 23, 2019

Assignment Coursework Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words - 5

Assignment - Coursework Example The energy can entirely be derived from the ocean and wind currents to produce electricity. The whole idea here is prudent as it can save the non-renewable energy into extinction. Reactive loading control is an optimal control approach entailing the adjustment of the primary converter dynamic parameters to ensure that all frequencies absorb maximum energy. These primary converters includes, inertia, the spring constant and the energy absorbing damping. Optimal power absorption dictates that the rate of kinetic energy radiated from the device be equal to the energy absorption rate and the primary converter feels no reactive force in such a scenario (Drew, Plummer and Sahinkaya). This control is important in widening of the wave energy converter (WEC) efficiency range on each side of the resonant range. On either side of the resonant frequency the spring of the device goes into a deflection caused by the wave force, or the overall frequency is reduced by accelerating the inertia. Reactive loading control also cancels some of the undesirable inertia or stiffness by introducing a phase shift into the power-take-off (PTO) force (Drew, Plummer and

Thursday, August 22, 2019

The Juvenile Court System Essay Example for Free

The Juvenile Court System Essay The Juvenile Court is the fulcrum around which rolls the judicial machinery for the treatment of juvenile offenders.   The court may counsel and dismiss a youthful offender or allow a discharge upon the offender submitting a bond to be of good behavior.   The court may also order the commission of the juvenile offender to the care of a relative or other responsible person or to an approved school for corrective education. Oftentimes, parents or guardians are ordered to carry out a bond to exercise proper care and guardianship. The court may issue an order of probation or payment of a fine, compensation or costs. Imprisonment may be ordered as a last resort if determined that the delinquent cannot be appropriately meted out in any other conceivable means.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   A state may allow youth offenders to be tried in adult courts for offenses which are serious as murder or rape.   There are ways by which a juvenile may be tried as an adult. One is through a waiver where the juvenile court judge decides whether or not a juvenile case should be transferred to a criminal court. The most popular way is for the prosecution to decide if the juvenile delinquent is to be tried in an adult court or in the juvenile court. The last one is where some offenses are excluded by the state from prosecution in juvenile courts.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   A landmark case concerning juvenile due process is Kent v. United States, where a 14-year old defendant was charged for robbery and rape and interrogated for seven hours until finally admitting his guilt.   Several motions were filed by the defendant but were denied by the judge without a hearing.   The case was appealed to the Court of Appeals but the same was denied.   However, the Supreme Court ruled in his favor, declaring that the accused has the right to the same due process accorded to adult offenders, such as the right to be assisted by counsel during custodial investigation and the right to access to evidence.   This case vaunted an extreme or rigorous effect on how a juvenile court dealt with a juvenile delinquent (l966). In re Gault, which is another landmark case involving the rights of the juvenile offender to due process, Gault, aged 15 was arrested when a neighbor complained that Gault and his friend had called her   and made obscene remarks over the phone.   Without due process, the juvenile was committed to an industrial school until he reaches the age of 21. At that time the Arizona Juvenile Code did not provide specified constitutional rights to the offenders. And under the Arizona law, Gault has no right to appeal. The Supreme Court held that a notice of hearing, informing the juvenile of the charges against him, the right to counsel, the right to confront witnesses and the right against self-incrimination accorded to adult offender must also be provided to the young offender; that the guarantees provided by the constitution do not distinguish a juvenile offender from adult offender (Palicz). In Breed v. Jones, the respondent was only 17 years old when accused of committing acts while holding a gun.   If he was an adult the act was criminal.   The Juvenile Court held that he was guilty of a criminal offense and was again tried as an adult in California Superior Court.   The U.S. Supreme Court held that the proceeding was a violation of the Double Jeopardy Clause of the Fifth Amendment. The respondent was first tried in the juvenile court as a juvenile and again at the superior court as an adult (l975). These cases had strikingly ensued on the manner juvenile delinquents are treated.   The courts now had to afford the juvenile his rights under the constitution.   Legitimate transfer hearing must be provided and notice must be served at the right time to provide ample time for the juvenile and his family to prepare for the case.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Status offenders are juveniles committing actions if committed by adults are not considered as felony or misdemeanor, such as running away from home, smoking,  Ã‚  Ã‚   alcoholism, truancy, and incorrigibility or beyond the control of the parents.   Parents are compelled to file petition to get services from the juvenile justice system as there is little or nothing in the community that provides services or support for status offenders. If a juvenile is adjudged as incorrigible, he is placed under probation which include counseling, psychiatric examination, parenting and assessment for medication. This process is to assist the child and the family in resolving the problem and improve the child’s conduct. For those who ran away from home, the court may order a family relative or friend to take custody of the child.   However, if there is no other option, the court may decide to put the child in jail for a short term. Proceedings in the juvenile court are civil and not criminal and special terms are used for the stages in the proceedings.   There is no jury and hearings are informal, but the rules of evidence apply. In juvenile court the defendant is called respondent and the case commences by petition and not by indictment.   The juvenile may admit or deny the offense charge in the adjudicatory hearing; if the court finds the respondent dangerous, proceedings begin with a detention hearing. Adjudication must take place within 30 days after the service of the petition.   If found that the child committed the acts, a disposition hearing is held.   Adjudication and disposition hearings are two separate proceedings.   In disposition hearing, the court determines whether the respondent needs treatment or rehabilitation and whether he is delinquent. The court may order the services of care providers such as the Department of Social Service, the Board of Education, the Department of Juvenile Services to help in rehabilitating the child.   The final stage is the restitution hearing for the determination of the monetary compensation for the victim who suffered injury for the delinquent acts of the juvenile. The Juvenile Court today has adopted the significant Supreme Court rulings in the landmark cases mentioned above.   Before deciding the case, the court determines the general demeanor of the offender, home and school environment and medical history.   Every possible way to help the parents and the juvenile delinquents are being coordinated not only by the judge but also by other members of the judicial system. References Kent v. U. S. 383 U.S. 541 (1966). Supreme Court of the United States, Supreme Court Collection. Cornell University Law School.   Retrieved on October 25, 2007 from http://www.law.cornell.edu/supct/html/historics/USSC_CR_0383_0541_ZO.html Palicz, A. K. Review in re Gault. Retrieved on October 25, 2007 from   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   http://www.yria.alcade.net/essays/inregault.htm Breed v. Jones, 421 U.S. 519 (1975, May 27). U. S. Supreme Court.   Findlaw. Retrieved on October 25, 2007 from http://caselaw.lp.findlaw.com/scripts/ getcase.pl?court=usvol=421invol=519

Wednesday, August 21, 2019

Stonegate pub company performance Essay Example for Free

Stonegate pub company performance Essay The Stonegate pub company is privately owned which concentrates in pubs and bars in the UK. It was started in the year 2010 and currently have more than 620 bars and pubs all over in the country. In the same year the company acquired over 330 managed pubs from M and B. This gave the company operational power to run. The company takes great care of all its target customers as it has various joints as in: student bars, traditional pubs, night clubs and all kinds of pubs. This makes the company attract all kinds of customers depending on their needs. In 2011, the company joined with the Town and pub company forming a large pub operator which would become the largest in the country. This in return led to the company acquiring lettuce brands, Yate’s and slug. Stonegate company also involves itself in selling of drinks and food that is seasonal favorites. Being one of the largest companies in the country, Stonegate company keeps books of accounts which can be evaluated. The company’s return on capital in the year 2012 is far much higher than that of 2011. This in return has increased the shareholders amount in the year. Since the return on capital in 2012 is greater than in 2011, the company indicated growth. The Gross profit of the company increases from 8.7% to 12.3% due to the increase of sales from 264,671 to 484623. The gross profit of the company indicates that the company is in the right direction towards its development. Net profit margin of any company will show how much it earns after tax deductions per dollar. When it is high, the firm comfortably controls its costs and favorably competes (BAKER, 2005, 62). In 2011 it had 0.41% compared to 4.5% in 2012 and could therefore earn more in 2012 after the tax had been deducted per dollar. The company, hence records higher amount of sale as time goes by. Gearing measures the financial leverage of a company and compares the ration between financial aid by lenders and shareholders. In 2011 it was 47.9% as compared to 159% indicating the country borrowed more than in the previous year. Interest cover shows the ability of a company to repay interest on an outstanding debt. In 2012 the ratio is at 3.5 times as compared with 0.95 in 2011. This indicates the ability of the company to repay has increased. On the other side the company’s current ratio came from 0.77:1 in 2011 to 0.74:1 in 2012. This shows that it was in a position to pay debts comfortably in 2011 while it struggles in 2012 which is not a comfortable place for any company in theworld. Liquidity ratio of a company shows its ability to pay short term debts. Stonegate company had a ratio of 0.69: 1 in 2011 and 0.62: 1 in 2012 showing the ability to repay short term debts reduced in 2012. Stock turnover is the amount of times that stock is sold over a given period of time. The company had a stock turnover of 9 times in 2011 as compared to 6 times in 2012. This indicates that the stock is sold at a fast pace in 2012 as compared to 2011. Debtor collection period is the period in which the business receives money sold on credit. Many businesses sell on credit to increase their sales. In 2011, Stonegate company had a debtor collection period of 43 as compared to 25 in 2012. This shows that the company would be able to get money sold on credit more often in 2012 which leads to development. Credit payment period on the other side represents the number of days a company takes to repay a credit transaction. The shorter the period the busy the business, hence faster development since this indicates faster inflow of cash. In 2011 it was 24 days compared to 12 in 2012. In 2012 therefore, Stonegate company had the power to repay back its debts within half the time spent in the previous year. This indicates growth in financial aspects of the company. The number of days a company takes to realize cash from its inventory is operating ratio. The company has an operating ratio of 28 days in 2011 and 19 days in 2012. The company enjoys fast money in the latter year,which in turn leads to faster development as compared to 2011. Stonegate company compares with other companies in the market and competes effectively. In the year 2011, Net Profit before interest and tax on sales is 0.64% compared to 12.3% in 2012. The company records growth in the latter year as compared to other companies. Labor cost of sales in 2011 is at 26.5% as compared to 28% in the year 2012. In comparison to other companies, the company is paying more of its money in wages and salaries in 2011 than in 2012. This poses dangers in any company. Overhead costs of sales refer to other costs other than labor. These costs may include rent and insurance. In relation to other companies, the company had a figure of 8.2% and 6.7% in 2012 indicating a reduction in the rate of overhead cost. Reduction in overhead costs which may be escapable, benefits the company as it is an additional expense on the side of the company’s budget (Tracy, 2013, 237) . The company’s current ratio in 2011 is at 0.77 and 0.74 in 2012 compared to other companies. This shows lack of strength to pay its debts faster as the years progress. On the side of acid test, the company had a ratio of 0.69: 1 in 2011 and 0.62:1 in 2012. It shows that the company could not comfortably depend on its current asset to pay its current debts in the year 2012 as compared with 2011 in relation to other countries. It therefore shows that the company depends on its own inventory in paying these debts. Stonegate company recorded a favorable rate of stock turnover as compared between the two years 2011 with 9 times and 2012 with 6 times. This shows effective competition with other companies in the market. The company may be lagging behind other companies due to the use of some strategies it takes in its dairy production. The company records tremendous improvement in the financial sector as witnessed by the large amount of profits and sales in 2012 compared to 2011. This shows improvement in the management part of the company which brings aboutbetter methods of production. This is what in return brings the positive change experienced in the company. According to Davenport (2013, p. 27), IT IS due to data-keeping in the company that parties may be able to know where the company is going astray and where they are right. This also helps in decision making . Although the company seems to be walking in the right direction, the business still lags behind other companies in the market due to its strategies. Some of these strategies include gearing. For instance Stonegate company depended much on the lenders as opposed to the shareholders in 2012 as compared to the year 2012. Lenders require a large amount of interests on loans given to the companies and may even ask for repayment within a short period of time (Moles et al, 2011, p. 642). Interests associated with these loans reduces the profit margin as evidenced in the Stonegate company. Other competing companies used the money from the shareholders as this would be somehow permanent as compared to money from the lenders. In this regard, the rate of gearing went up from 47.9 in 2011 to 159 in 2012. This is one of the areas where the company is lagging behind its peers and care must be taken to avoid collapse of the company in the future. The company’s current ratio went down and it could not be able to repay short-term debts as it used to do in the previous year. Decrease in the current ratio of a company may be brought about by such factors as an increase in the amount borrowed reducing the company’s current assets due to repayment of the debts (Kaya Banerjee, 2014, p. 25). Although this money leads to increase in the level of profits, the company should avoid it. Net profit margin, which increases due to this approach helps in the payment of the debt, though it does not fit the amount borrowed. Another rich area that the company is lagging behind is in the payment of wages and salaries. The amount used in 2012 was far much more than the amount spent in the year 2011. This is even after keeping all the other factors constant. Stonegate company’s acid tests proved that it could not depend on its current assets to pay its current liabilities. The company could therefore depend on its inventory to pay these debts.Being unable to pay short term debts by the company is a concern that needs to be addressed in order to prevent collapse of the company.On the other side, the company enjoys improvement in the rate of stock turnover indicating that the products are moving at a higher speed in 2012 compared to 2011. The overhead costs also go down,adding up to the profit margin of the company. Care must be taken to avoid doing away with an overhead cost that is vital to the business for example insurance. This is because overheads costs are an important part in the running of businesses. Stonegate company has adopted strategies that make it compete favorably with other competitors. This has enabled it to remain relevant in the market. It has offered services to all round customers with the number of joints that supply drinks and food. To have powers in the market, the company joined hands with the Town and pub company to form a large company and the largest private company that is in the pub business. It also acquired more than 330 pubs from M and B which gave the company powers to enter the market in full force leading to almost forming a monopoly. In return, Stonegate company has continued to record high amount of profit associated with an increase in the amount of total sales. Due to this factor, it has recorded tremendous development and growth of the structures and the number of workers. An increase in the amount of profits as time goes may be attributed to the increase in the amount of sales sold (Kumar, 2008, p. 62 ). As compared with other companies in both 2011 and 2012, the company records an increase in the amount of profit and sales. This has given the company more resources to deal with the operations of its duties that lead to efficiency and growth. This accounts for the increase in the number of employees’ salaries who increases in number due to increase in the operation of the company. This has in return increased net profit margin of the company showing the positive trend the company is heading to. Rate of stock turnover also reduces in the years under scrutiny. This has led to faster movement in and out of inventory which results in higher returns indicated in the working ratios of the company. The ratio between the shareholders and the lenders also increases during the latter year. This indicates that the company has resulted in the use of the lender’s money as opposed to shareholders’. This in return has made Stonegate company unable to pay short term debts using its current assets since most of its money is borrowed money. This is a major concern for the company to consider and correct. Relying on lenders money may seem risky in the event that they give out money with a lot of requirements that leaves the company in a servant position. The loans also attractthe interest that is additional cost which adds to the expenses of the company in return reducing the profit. Using money from the shareholders who are somehow long time as compared to loans is more easier and efficient. They ask for interests after an agreed period of time without their investment value as opposed to lenders who asks for both (Jiang et al 2010, p. 3602). Stonegate’s debt collection period has reduced in the years in discussion. This indicates good mechanisms and strategies in debt collection and incredit selling. This has enabled the company to reduce its credit repayment period. Managing these important trading strategies by the company has led to growth and improved operations a great achievement in the side of the company and its associates. An area of concern is the ratio of wages and total sales that increased in the year 2012 as compared to 2011. This increase in the ratio indicates that the company would be using more money to pay labor in the latter year as compared to the total output in the same year. This is a point of consideration that Stonebic company should take into account and make the necessary improvements.Stonegate company,continues to report increased revenues as in 2003 it stood at  £470.3m (Wingett Williams, 2014, p. 168). Conclusion             The Stonegate pub company is a competitive company in the market that offers drinks to its esteemed customers. The company keeps records of its finances an indication of a company that follows the set regulations for success in business. The company continues to grow in the amount of sales and profits attributed by the reduction in the rate of stock turnover, debt recollection period and debt repayment period. The company also uses a lot of funds from lenders, which increases its operating capital which in return results in the growth of its structures. The company through its many joints holds all kinds of customers in its different joints as involvement in fresh foods gives it additional customers who do not drink. References Baker, H. K., Powell, G. E. (2005). Understanding Financial Management A Practical Guide. Oxford, Blackwell Pub. Davenport, T. H., Kim, J. (2013). Keeping Up With The Quants: Your Guide To Understanding And Using Analytics Firms, Journal Of Accounting, Business Management, 21, 2, Pp. 23-35 Jiang, W, Li, K, Shao, P 2010, When Shareholders Are Creditors: Effects Of The Simultaneous Holding Of Equity And Debt By Non-Commercial Banking Institutions, Review Of Financial Studies, 23, 10, Pp. 3595-3637 Kaya, H, Banerjee, G 2014, The Impact Of Monetary Policy And Firm Characteristics On Firms Short-Term Assets, Liabilities, Term Structure Of Debt And Liquidity Ratios: Evidence From U.S. Industrial Kumar, V. (2008). Managing Customers For Profit: Strategies To Increase Profits And Build Loyalty. Upper Saddle River, N.J., Wharton School Pub. Moles, P., Parrino, R., Kidwell, D. S. (2011).Corporate Finance. Chichester, Wiley. Tracy, J. A. (2013). Accounting Workbook For Dummies.Hoboken, N.J: John Wiley Sons. Wingett, M, Williams, R. 2014, Stonegate performance in line with peers, Publicans Morning Advertiser. Business Source Complete168, p. 15 Source document

Tuesday, August 20, 2019

Ethical Issues with HIV Positive Clients

Ethical Issues with HIV Positive Clients Introduction HIV and infectious diseases is a sensitive issue that has prompted the introduction of additional laws to protect the psychological and emotional needs of the clients. Ethical values basically guide ethical behavior and conduct. Various moral concerns have been identified since the emergence of HIV. Ethical Principles Basic principles that guide medical behavior include respect for persons, justice and beneficence (Angel, 1998). Fundamentally, these are achieved through keeping promises, upholding respect and maintaining confidentiality (Wolf, 2001).Other ethical principles include utilitarian perspective and the ethic of caring (Wolf, 2001). Ethical Issues Confidentiality. Generally, all medical information and records are expected to be kept confidential. Gostin et al (1997) shows that the sensitive nature of information related to HIV and other infections have prompted creation of additional laws to protect the affected clients. There are exceptions however that allow the healthcare personnel to report cases to healthcare authorities (Gostin et al, 1997); the need to disclose the status to the persons at risk (Gostin Webber, 1998); the case relating to infected healthcare personnel that rested in the formation of a panel of experts that restrict the activities of the infected workers or inform the patients of their status (Kass, et al, 1996; Lurie Wolfe, 1999; Singer et al, 2006; Varmus Satcher, 1999); prenatal testing that has introduced routine testing to all expectant mothers (Connor et al, 2004, Levine 1998 ; Sargent, 2000) End of life issues. Ferriman (2001) ascertains that this existed during the initial times of the emergence of HIV when it had the capacity to develop in to a terminal disease in a short period of time. Availability of effective ARVs has changed the situation (Lurie Wolfe, 1999). However, it still affects populations with limited resources. Palliative care is essential. Vaccine Research. Wolf and Berkey (2000) indicate that the minority are employed in trials. Wolf (2001) notes that the populations have false hopes about the possibility of being cured. Vaccines have adverse impacts on the immunity of the participants. Participants may be denied travel rights due to the health implications of the vaccine. There eligibility of taking up certain jobs is affected. Gostin and Webber (1998 show that at times the participants are labeled very vulnerable to infection. This has far reaching implications n their behavior. Confidentiality is often breeched by the researchers. Research ethics. Feriman (2001) points out that the participants are not given vital information prior to research. In other instances, their consent is not sought. Healthcare providers contribute to the misconceptions (Gostin, 2000). Patients are not informed about the implications of the research. Loyalty by patients makes them to avoid informing themselves of the necessary procedures. Patients at times provide information in return for better services from the healthcare in future. Healthcare providers undertaking research place greater emphasis on financial benefits rather than the interests of the patients. Summary It is clear that the ethical principles of respect for people, justice and beneficence provide essential guidance in health care. In addition, the utilitarian perspective and the ethic of caring also provide vital guidance to medical behavior. Notably, these enable the clinicians to interact with HIV positive patients and those with infectious diseases in a sustainable manner. Ethical concerns such as confidentiality, end of life, informed consent, vaccine research, research design and conflict of interest characterize the interaction between patients with infectious illnesses such as HIV and clinicians. Recommendations Patients need to be informed of their legal rights prior to testing. Pretest procedures and counseling need to be upheld. With regard to HIV vaccine research, it is important that the trials be carried out on a population that is globally representative. Finally, it would be important for the researchers carrying out medical research about infectious diseases to be guided by fundamental clinical ethics References Introduction The sensitivity that is associated with HIV positive clients, infectious diseases and relative information requires the clinicians to uphold a high degree of morality when interacting with the patients at different levels. Since the emergence of the epidemic, various ethical concerns have been identified in different instances. In order to ensure that the wellbeing of the patients and healthcare providers is protected, measures have been undertaken to address the concerns accordingly. Indeed, it is worth acknowledging that the psychological wellbeing of the HIV positive patients plays a critical role in their holistic wellbeing. Physical wellbeing can be achieved if the patients are handled with the greatest level of care. It is against this background that this paper explores the ethical issues concerning HIV positive clients and other infectious diseases controlled by the health department guidelines. In order to enhance a harmonic consideration, the paper starts by underscoring the basic ethical principles underpinning healthcare and relative research. Then, it exhaustively reviews several ethical concerns and comes up with recommendations that would effectively address the ethical issues. Ethical Principles Clinical work and related research is governed by various ethical and moral principles that guide professional behavior and conduct. When dealing with persons that are HIV positive or those with other infectious diseases, it is imperative to observe these principles as they make the patients feel appreciated and cared for. Of great importance is the moral worth that these values enhance. In particular, Angell (1998) indicates that respect for people, justice and beneficence are fundamental values that govern any form of clinical interaction. The value of respect for persons demands that the decisions and autonomy of other individuals be upheld. In addition, this principle postulates that persons that lack autonomy and those that are unable to make independent decisions be protected. Justice requires that all persons irrespective of their status be treated in a fair manner. The ideal state of justice is characterized by equal distribution of the burdens and benefits within the society. Finally, beneficence imposes upon the clinicians a responsibility to act in the interests of the patients. In order to achieve this Wolf (2000) asserts that the ability to keep promises, uphold respect and maintain a high degree of confidentiality is essential. Other ethical principles that can be used to guide the conduct of clinicians in this field include the utilitarian perspective and the ethic of caring (Wolf, 2001). The former places emphasis on the consequences of the activities and postulates that clinical behavior can only be morally acceptable if its consequences are desirable and enhance the greatest good for the majority of the population. The latter on the other hand judges the activities based on the effect that they have on relationships. However, Wolf (2000) indicates that some of these principles conflict and therefore can not be applied jointly. In addition, it is notable that some principles can not be applied in some situations. The clinicians should therefore weigh the relevance of a principle to a situation before applying it. This is important to avoid conflicts that are likely to stem from application of multiple principles. Of great importance however is to ensure that the greatest degree of good for the greatest m ajority is always upheld. Ethical Issues Over time, various ethical concerns have arisen from the interaction between HIV positive patients and clinicians. Confidentiality is one such issue that has been considered to be very important in this regard. Generally, the law provides that all medical information be treated with a high degree of confidentiality. However, Gostin et al (1997) shows that the sensitive nature of information related to HIV and other infectious diseases has prompted various states to adopt relevant laws that offer additional protection to the same. These laws prevent disclosure of information related to HIV without prior authorization. However, as indicated earlier, there are different contexts that might require that such information be disclosed without the knowledge and/ or authorization of the patients. Basically, such steps are considered ethical as they seek to enhance the greatest good for the greatest percentage of a population. To begin with, the law allows the healthcare personnel to report HIV infections to relevant public heath authorities. Gostin (2000) contends that the advantages of this reporting basically outweigh the risk discrimination of the infected individual. Usually, the name of the individual is not provided during reporting. However, epidemiological studies show that in order for intervention measures to yield optimal results, there is need to encourage provision of name based information during reporting. Nonetheless, it has been argued that this has the capacity to increase the risk of discrimination and therefore should be avoided. This position is also held by the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention that ensure that testing of HIV is made anonymous. Another scenario that breeches confidentiality but is not punishable by law is when the healthcare providers disclose the status of a patient to persons that may be at risk of infection. In this regard, Gostin and Webber (1998) ascertain that the right of a patient to be accorded confidentiality is often in conflict with the right of the partner to be notified accordingly. Despite the fact that confidentiality is instrumental in avoiding discrimination, it needs to be appreciated that the implications of failing to inform a non suspecting partner can be far reaching. In order to avoid conflicts, the patients are usually advised during counseling to reveal their status to their sex partners. Another exception with regard to confidentiality of information that is HIV related concerns the healthcare workers that are infected with the disease. This particularly affects the workers who perform exposure prone procedures. In this respect, Singer et al (2006) cites the US law that demands that the status of these workers be reviewed by the expert panel. This then makes a decision regarding whether to prevent the infected workers from performing such procedures or to inform the patients about their infection. The equivalency policy that demands that the healthcare workers disclose their status has been increasingly adopted by various states. From an ethical perspective, disclosure of HIV status by the health workers and enforcement of some form of restrictions is in line with the best interests of the patients. However, various studies of whom Lurie and Wolfe (1999) are represented argue that this contravenes the privacy of health workers and enhances discrimination especially when the patients are informed. However, it should be appreciated that the benefit of the uninfected patient outweighs the risk of discrimination of a heath worker by the same. To address these concerns, a more viable approach would be for the council of experts to place restrictions but avoid informing the patient, unless under special conditions. Another ethical issue regarding HIV positive patients and those with infectious diseases is informed consent before testing. Basically, various clinical tests that involve testing of the blood samples of the patients do not require consent. However, the realization that testing for HIV had various negative implications led to the need for informed consent. The specific psychosocial risks that are presented by HIV testing include restriction of lack of access to insurance, healthcare or housing, possibility of rejection by family, friends and/ or close relatives and discrimination during employment. Thus special procedures that seek the consent of the patient such as pretest counseling and need for specific informed consent from the patient are a prerequisite. These measures ensure that the patient is psychologically and emotionally prepared to deal with the implications of the results. Essentially, the information that needs to be availed to the patient prior to testing include the benefits and risks of testing, risky behaviors, measures undertaken to prevent transmission, the nature of the test and confidentiality of the test. These are always coupled with an informed consent from the patient. In their review, Varmus and Satcher (1999) indicate that most states require that the patient provide a written consent. However this provision has various exceptions. In some instances, prisoners are persons that are accused of sexual crimes are often tested without consent. In addition, some states have made the testing mandatory for new born babies. In his study, Kass et al (1996) indicates that this also reveals the status of the mother. Notably, prenatal testing is also undertaken without consent from the mother. Fundamentally, early detection is instrumental in preventing mother to child transmission. Initially, prenatal testing was undertaken after a pretest counseling and informed consent. However, changes were proposed and currently, all pregnant mothers undergo a routine prenatal HIV testing. However, the revised edition of this law by the US Public Health Service presented a need for informed consent, although it is not clarify whether this needs to be verbal or written. Connor et al (2004) ascertains that the proposals that seek to make HIV testing mandatory for pregnant mothers are compounded by different complexities. To begin with, the provision does not ascertain whether it would be accepted by all the mothers or not. In this regard, it should be appreciated that some mothers may not be willing to undergo the test. It was posited that once this provision is made a routine requirement, it would become difficult for the pregnant mothers to determine whether they have a right to decline the test or not. Notably, this undermines the principles of autonomy as this critical decision would be beyond the ability of the affected mothers. Further, Sargent (2000) indicates that the care provides are likely to forget that HIV testing has various psychological implications that are likely to compromise the wellbeing of the mothers. In this respect it is recommended that precautionary protective measures be undertaken prior to testing. Further, foregoing the pretest procedures has the capacity to undermine preventive efforts. Connor et al (2004) indicates that in this regard, the mothers would not be informed about these important measures and they would fail to take necessary measures to prevent themselves from contracting new infections. Generally, it is agued that the proposed routine testing may compromise the adherence to vital pretest procedures. The possible spill over effects to the rest of the population can adversely affect the wellbeing of the general population. Further, Levine (1998) points out that pregnant mothers who are HIV positive are usually expected to make various choices regarding their health and pregnancy. In this regard, these women should not be forced to either undergo sterilization or abortion. In addition, the pregnant mothers should be counseled accordingly in order to enable them make viable decisions to either continue carrying the pregnancy or terminate it. Another ethical issue regarding HIV positive patients includes end of life issues. In this regard, Ferriman (2001) appreciates that before the development of antiretroviral therapy, HIV usually progressed very quickly to a terminal disease. However, this concern has in the recent past been less prominent due to the availability of antiretroviral therapy. However, it should be acknowledged that some segments of the global population lack vital resources to cater for these concerns. In such incidences, palliative care that seeks to reduce suffering is essential. In instances where resources are not available, care is fundamentally limited to psychological support that basically helps the patients plan for issues such as child custody and burial. Nevertheless, Lurie and Wolfe (1999) indicate that this scenario is probably changing as measures are being undertaken to increase the provision of anti retroviral drugs to the affected population. Practical measures in this respect include pre ssuring the relevant pharmaceutical companies to provide the drugs at affordable prices, providing resources for purchase of the drugs and allowing production of generic drugs. Further, it is argued that the HIV vaccine research has also been fraught with numerous ethical complications. To begin with, Wolf and Berkeley (2000) indicate that the minority of the population has increasingly been employed in research. In this respect, it is posited that population samples for trials are often picked from developing countries. Furthermore, Wolf (2001) notes that the population involved in research often has positive hope because of the belief that it is actually a cure. As such, participants tend to involve themselves in risky behaviors. This implies that the nature and function of the trial is not often communicated to them in an effective manner. In addition, it shows that the researchers place more emphasis on the results of the research rather than the protection of the participants. In this regard, it would be imperative for the researchers to protect their participants too. This will not only enable them to get high quality research but also save the lives of the vulnerable population. The HIV vaccine trials have also been identified to pose various risks to the participants. In this regard, it is indicated that the participants are often refrained from participating in future researches. In addition, the implications of the trials to the immunity of the participants are still unknown. Further, Levine (1998) asserts that the participants may be frustrated in the long run due to the fact that the vaccine may not be effective. Also, it is argued that the participants often react differently to specific antibody tests that characterize the trial. As a result, they may be prevented from traveling to other countries. In addition, these effects are likely to undermine their eligibility for some government jobs such as the military. This may happen irrespective of the fact that their seroconversion may not be a representation of an infection. Furthermore, the participants are likely to face some form of stigmatization as a result of disclosure to friends and relatives. In their review, Gostin and Webber (1998) ascertain that certain phases of the trial often identify some of the participants to have a high risk of contracting the infection. This has various implications and may pose difficulties to the particular person. Finally, consistent research indicates that confidentiality of the status of the participants has increasingly been breached in the past. Recent surveys affirm that this often happens, irrespective of the fact that the researchers are charged with the responsibility of keeping the status of the participants confidential. Further, ethical issues have increasingly been raised with regard to conducting research about infectious diseases and HIV. To begin with Ferriman (2001) indicates that the participants need to be informed prior to the research and their consent sought. Often, the expectations of the participants tend to undermine the quality of the research. In this regard it is worth acknowledging that most of the participants consent to participate in research, not because of the need to help the researcher to obtain vital results but of the expectations to attain personal benefits. The widespread misconceptions about the importance of the research often make some patients to misinterpret the information availed to them. In the long run, the quality of the research is greatly undermined. Health care providers have been cited by Gostin (2000) to contribute significantly to these misconceptions. In this regard, it is noteworthy that the health personnel undertaking a certain research often have an upper hand with regard to the knowledge about the research. In some cases, they fail to inform the patients about the importance of the research. In other instances, they provide wrong advice to the participants and since they have the authority over the patients, the participating patients are inclined to follow their misguided advice. Further, Kass (19996) argues that some patients participate in researches because of the need to please the healthcare staff. In such instances, the participants believe that they would get quality healthcare in return. Moreover, emergent research indicates that the trust that the patients have in the medical institutions often makes them participate in the researches without reviewing the relevant conditions. In such cases, the healthcare providers undertaking the research over estimate the benefits of the same and fail to inform the participants of relevant procedures. Conflict of interests in the area of research and especially that pertaining to infectious diseases also raise various ethical considerations. In this respect, Angell (1998) indicates that these are attributable to the benefits that healthcare researchers get from positive results of their research. In particular, they usually get grants, prestige and promotions fro their research and other published work. As a result, they always aim at recruiting and retaining particular participants in their researches. In some instances, this interest conflicts with the basic interests of the participants. However, the conflicts that are financially oriented often influence the quality of the researches as the decisions made are not objective. In addition, financial conflicts some cases make the researchers to halt the research irrespective of the fact that it is likely to benefit very many individuals. Summary To sum up, it is clear that the ethical principles of respect for people, justice and beneficence provide essential guidance in health care. In addition, the utilitarian perspective and the ethic of caring also provide vital guidance to medical behavior. Notably, these enable the clinicians to interact with HIV positive patients and those with infectious diseases in a sustainable manner. Ethical concerns such as confidentiality, end of life, informed consent, vaccine research, research design and conflict of interest characterize the interaction between patients with infectious illnesses such as HIV and clinicians Recommendations From the analysis, it is certain that ethical issues pertaining to infectious diseases like HIV and Aids are wide and varied. In order to uphold the relevant ethical principles that govern the interaction of patients and clinicians in this regard, it is imperative to put in to consideration various factors. These would ensure that the overall wellbeing of the patients and the clinicians is achieved. To begin with, it is important for the psychologists and other clinicians to inform the patients of their legal rights before assuming any form of treatment or tests. Knowledge about their rights would enable the patients to make objective decisions regarding their status. Particular areas of concern in his regard would be to inform the patients about various exceptions to confidentiality. This would ensure that the patients make informed decisions and in a timely manner. Wolf (2000) proposes that before informing the persons at risk about the status of the patient, psychologists need to inform the patients about their intentions. This would be instrumental in avoiding conflicts at a family level. Furthermore, the importance of pretest procedures and especially counseling should not be understated. Basically, these seek to psychologically prepare the patients to deal with the implications of testing with ease. In particular, the importance of positive living needs to be emphasized. This procedures needs to be extended to prenatal testing. Pregnant mothers have a right to make their decisions and should be allowed to do so through counseling. Much as it is important to protect the life of the unborn, it is worth noting that routine testing that deprives the mother of relevant pretest counseling. With regard to HIV vaccine research, it is important that the trials be carried out on a population that is globally representative. The participants should be well informed about the implications of the trials and their consent sought before the onset of the same. Relevant information should be all inclusive and should entail the emotional, psychological, social and legal implications of the trials. Most importantly, the researchers need to uphold a high level of confidentiality about the status of the patients. Finally, it would be important for the researchers carrying out medical research about infectious diseases to be guided by fundamental clinical ethics. Of great reference in this respect would be their ability to put the interests of the patients before their own. In this regard, they need to inform the participants about the procedures of the research and ensure that they get their consent before beginning the research. In addition, they need to uphold a high level of objectivity when undertaking the research.

Monday, August 19, 2019

Light and Dark in Joseph Conrads Heart of Darkness Essay -- Heart Dar

Light and Dark in Heart of Darkness  Ã‚      Joseph Conrad's Heart of Darkness is a tragic tale of the white man's journey into the African jungle. When we peel away the layers, however, a different journey is revealed - we venture into the soul of man, complete with the darkness of depravity as well as the wonderful. In this essence Conrad uses this theme of light and darkness to contrast the civilized European world with the savage African world in Heart of Darkness. As aforementioned, within Heart of Darkness, Conrad uses light and dark to symbolize good and evil, respectively. "It is whiteness that is truly sinister and evil, for it symbolizes the immoral scramble for loot by the unscrupulous and unfeeling Belgian traders in ivory and human flesh; the whiteness of ivory is also contrasted with the blackness of the natives whose lives must be destroyed for its sake" (Gillon 25). In other words there is a perversion of light and dark and what they represent.   The characteristic of ivory is its colour of white, but rather then being associated with purity and all that it is good, it re... ... of Darkness. Middlesex, England: Penguin Publishers, 1983. Gillon, Adam. (1982). Joseph Conrad. Twayne's English Author Series: Number 333. Kinley E. Roby, ed. Boston: Twayne. "Joseph Conrad." The Encarta 1998 Encyclopedia Online. Microsoft, 1998. Kunitz, Stanley J. "Joseph Conrad." Twentieth Century Authors: Vol. T. New York: H.W. Wilson Company, 1942. 307-9 Stape, J.H.. The Cambridge Companion to Joseph Conrad. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press. Taylor, Derek. Conrad's Heart of Darkness. The Explicator. No.4 Summer 1998: 195-8.

The Influence of The Impressionist Era Essays -- Music Composition Mus

The Influence of The Impressionist Era Impressionism, one of the later eras in classical music composition. An era where emotions are expressed vividly while still following musical structure, where music caused much political controversy, and where France became known for its musical talent. In this essay you will read of how impressionism set a lasting mark in musical and national histories, and how it influenced modern music as we know it. The Impressionist Era all started with Claude Debussy, being tired of the formed classical structure, and the romantic informality. Of all of the musicians who ever lived Debussy (1862-1918) was known for his originality and adventurous style. His influences soon spread throughout the Western world. He, before long, became a "superstar" in Europe, North America, and Asiatemporarily breaking the public's fascination with the monolithic composers of the classical and romantic eras. Because of Debussy's moving compositions Impressionism soon spread into churches, schools, ballrooms, along with respected theatres and concert halls. Although Claude Debussy was an amazing orchestral composer, his works seemed to agree most with the piano. Today, one of the most known pieces of piano repertoire is the piano suite, Claire de Lune. Many composers started to become inspired by Debussy and thus The Impressionist Era was born. In the later years to come Debussy would have never guessed his music would be so powerful and destructive. In 1876 unrest soon came to France, and ironically held in the middle was Impressionism. Today many would compare this to the sixties where more liberal habits cause social disturbance. Historians to this day are still shocked with how such an uplifting, and positive movement could cause so much strife. Riots and political vendetta soon aroused France, causing unofficial anarchy in which the government was powerless. This national misfortune was actually caused by feuding between the Socialists and Democratics using impressionism as their weapon of war. The Impressionist Era was said by political leaders to be expressing an opinion in France's politics, and since most impressionists were French this point had a strong siding. Composers like Debussy, and Satie soon unwittingly became political figureheads. The music definitely was moving for the French people, and... ... theatre, band and pop music techniques and styles which were founded during Impressionism are all employed. Even while watching a movie the background music often contains Impressionistic styling. A prime example is Celine Dion's once popular song, My Heart Will Go On, this song contains almost every one of Impressionism's musical characteristics. Throughout the song harmonic chord progressions, a drifting melodic line, classical and romantic technique and tone, irregular chromatic intervals, and whole-tone scales are clearly defined in the instrumental scores. Also, many other songs are laden with Impressionistic styles; including some rock music. Another modern day artist is Elton John who constantly uses themes from the Impressionist Era. The influence that Impressionism has on modern day music is actually quite phenomenal, all you have to do is listen closely and I guarantee that you will notice some similarity. The Impressionistic revolution in music all started with one musician, one composer, named Claude Debussy - who alone turned his mind's sketches into another Era in musical history. Who knows, maybe you will lead the way into the next musical era.

Sunday, August 18, 2019

We Have the Right to Choose Euthanasia :: Assisted Suicide

We Have the Right to Choose Euthanasia Euthanasia is the term for opting to die under circumstances, which lead to it being a gentle and easy death. Euthanasia should be an option for the suffering patient, although certain conditions and laws should be implemented on this issue so that both for and against arguments are considered. My opinion leans toward euthanasia being legal although I can understand the critical issues in relation to this practice that cause conflict within the community. The decision for life is entirely up to the suffering individual. Only under a qualified psychiatrist should there be any influence on an individuals ability to make that decision. Reasons behind questioning the patient s ability to make this decision should relate to their mental or physical status. The psychiatrist s choice should be in the best interests of the patient after considering their health. In many circumstances, euthanasia should be seen as understandable and humane, especially if a patient has a life threatening disease such as cancer or Aids. The following state the current laws for euthanasia in the Northern Territory but only recently these laws have been overturned by the Commonwealth government. These laws include; (a) A patient had to make a request, (b) Cooling off period, (c) 3 independent doctors had to agree being: (1) patient s doctor, (2) psychiatrist, if not suffering from any mental disease, (3) Specialist in the area of disease suffered by the patient e.g.: oncologist (cancer specialist), neurologist (nerve specialist being able to deal with paralysis). The laws determining the act of euthanasia must not be open to abuse, they must be precise and sensitive to the community issues but also be unbiase to the individual. If a patient is not seen to recover at any stage and, after all treatment possible, still remains incurable, then they should have the choice of euthanasia. Euthanasia would be a blessing to the critically ill patients and their families. However, under the above conditions I still can see where much abuse could occur resulting in euthanasia being seen as inhumane. If a patient who was depressed due to a feeling of pressure from home/friends/family the individual s choice for euthanasia would not be rational because there are treatments available to help deal with depression such as regular visits to a psychiatrist or the anti-depressants available from a medical practitioner. People must consider that euthanasia must be reasoned and not used as a temporary pain relief of something easily cured, but still what must be considered is what influence their can be on an individuals choice, example; pressure from family or feeling a burden.

Saturday, August 17, 2019

Precipitous Labor Essay

Labor, from beginning of true contractions to the delivery of the infant and placenta, typically lasts 9-19 hours. Precipitous labor is labor that lasts less than 3 hours, resulting in a precipitous birth, an emergency situation that could cause trauma to the mother and infant. There are many reasons for this anomaly, a large pelvis, small fetus in the optimal position or a previous precipitous birth. Any of these factors in conjunction with intense contractions results in a rapid decent of the fetus through the birth canal. This rapid expulsion could lead to head trauma in the fetus. The mother, enduring the tumultuous contractions, could receive lacerations to the vagina, cervix, urethra, perineal area or uterine rupture. The mother is also at a higher risk for amniotic fluid embolus and postpartum hemorrhage. Precipitous labor accounts for roughly 2% of births in the United States. A history of precipitous labor is the greatest significant risk factor for subsequent rapid deliveries. According to Ladewig, London and Davidson, women with a history of precipitous labor should be monitored closely and generally are suggested to induce labor around 38 weeks gestation to ensure the safety of the mother and fetus. Considering the nature of labor, however, there are no guarantees as to when labor may begin. If a pregnant client presents with intense contractions with little uterine relaxation in between and the client states contractions started within the hour, precipitous labor should be suspected. A thorough history should be obtained as quickly as possible, including any previous precipitous births, any childbirth preparations and a family history of precipitous labor. Leopold’s Maneuvers should be performed to determine the fetal position, if abnormal position is definite, the OR may need to be notified. During the cervical examination, any bulging of the perineal area, crowning, rectal distention, feces, increased vaginal discharge should be noted. A fetal heart monitor needs to be placed either externally or internally if there is time. A contraction monitor, called a tocodynameter, should be placed around the client’s abdomen. Check dilation, greater than 5cm per hour should initiate precipitous labor procedures. Most facilities have a prepared pack for such an emergency for advanced nurses to utilize in the event the doctor or midwife isn’t present. Risk for injury related to rapid labor and birth is the most common concern for the mother and fetus. There are no tests to determine if the client will experience precipitous labor, however there are a few tests to determine if the client is, in fact, in labor and her water has broke. The fern test is done by swabbing the posterior vaginal pool being sure to avoid the mucous plug located in the cervix. After the sample has been collected, smear the swab onto a glass slide. Once the slide is air dry, if the membranes have ruptured, the crystals that appear on the slide will make a fern-like shape. A pH test may also be done to confirm the rupture of membranes. Nitrazine paper is used to detect the vaginal pH of mothers expected of having ruptured membranes. The paper contains an indicator dye Phenaphthazine that changes color depending on the pH. Amniotic fluid pH is approximately 6. 5. The Nitrazine paper is wrapped around gloved fingers and inserted into the vagina. The results are positive for amniotic fluid if the paper turns blue. These tests are rarely done in this situation due to the time constraints. Labor is best controlled in a medical facility if time permits and in most cases, with the use of many different drugs ordered by an attending physician. During a doctor guided labor the client is given an IV and started on fluids, in most cases it is normal saline running at approximately 125ml/hr. Oxytocin is then started if the contractions are not productive or set aside to use after delivery to help prevent hemorrhage. If the client requests pain medication it is started when the client is dilated to 4-5cm. Most women choose an epidural, a form of regional analgesia where an anesthetic such as lidocaine or an opioid like morphine is injected into the epidural space via a catheter that remains in place until the procedure is over. This causes a loss of sensation and pain by blocking the signals through nerves in or near the spinal cord. IV injections of opioid analgesics such as Stadol and Nubain are available if the patient wishes to forego the invasion into the spine. In some instances, such as preterm labor, a tocolytic may also be ordered to slow or stop contractions. Magnesium sulfate or ritodrine is the most common however studies show that Nifedipine is more effective and safer. According to P.  Berstein (2004), a 2002 analysis of 12 controlled studies found nifedipine more effective and clearly safer. The nifedipine-treated neonates had a decreased risk of respiratory distress syndrome, necrotizing enterocolitis, and intraventricular hemorrhage. During a midwife labor, in majority of births, the client has pre-chosen a natural or drug free birth. Because precipitous labor is so rapid pain medications of any sort are contraindicated and unless the pregnancy is severely preterm, the physician will not offer tocolytics just to reduce contractions. If time permits, an IV may be started before delivery but, is not of the utmost concern. Labor is a very terrifying experience even when it is considered to have gone normally. Precipitous labor is even more so due to the extreme fast pace and increased probability something will go wrong. There is no prevention of precipitous labor because it is not fully understood why it happens. Planned induction is the best way to ensure that delivery occurs at a medical facility and is the safest way for the mother and child. Teaching the mother and support person the signs of true labor, the possible risks to the mother and infant and the importance of induction are essential to a successful precipitous labor. Although precipitous labor is rare, it is a medical emergency that requires quick actions and smart thinking. There is no prevention only education and thoughtful planning. Women who experience this anomaly are insanely scared and tolerate an enormous amount of pain but, with the proper preparation trauma can be limited and safety can be assured.

Friday, August 16, 2019

Parenting skills

What makes a good parent is when the parent isn't worried about being a good parent. 2. What are some of the common problems that children might have? Temper tantrums, sleeping problems for child and parents, toileting problems, and eating. 3. Why Is play important in the parent-child relationship? Because you need to be there commenting like a sports commentator , It shows the child that your there and you support the child. 4. Do you think you will be a good parent? Why or why not?I think I ould be a great parent because I have the patience todo anything with the child weather It comes to eating or sleeping . After watching the video I think I can easily be a good parent. 1. Why did the men say that they were ready for children? They dldnt really explain why they were ready for children mostly how they got ready. They said they had to give their relationship a bit of time so they can bond as a couple. 2. What did the men have to learn as new fathers? They had to learn how to motina ly let go there old life and grow into a father. . Do you think the fathers enjoy fatherhood more today than in the past? Why or why not? I think that they enjoy being fathers because it has made them focus on there relationship. 4. What are some of the difficulties that new fathers (and mothers) face? Having a social life, and having alone time. 1. What are some of the benefits of being â€Å"childish†? it gives reasons of why not to do things. 2. Why does Svitak say that adults should listen and earn from kids and not Just have kids learning from kids?Do you agree? Why or why not? I disagree because in reality children aren't trusted to teach parents. 3. Why is trust important in the relationship between kids and adults for learning to take place? Because if you dont trust someone you restrict them. 4. Do you agree with Svitak that parents and adults should have high expectations for kids? Why? Yes because later in life when you reach your expectation you can probably excee d higher than your expectations. Parenting skills What makes a good parent is when the parent isn't worried about being a good parent. 2. What are some of the common problems that children might have? Temper tantrums, sleeping problems for child and parents, toileting problems, and eating. 3. Why Is play important in the parent-child relationship? Because you need to be there commenting like a sports commentator , It shows the child that your there and you support the child. 4. Do you think you will be a good parent? Why or why not?I think I ould be a great parent because I have the patience todo anything with the child weather It comes to eating or sleeping . After watching the video I think I can easily be a good parent. 1. Why did the men say that they were ready for children? They dldnt really explain why they were ready for children mostly how they got ready. They said they had to give their relationship a bit of time so they can bond as a couple. 2. What did the men have to learn as new fathers? They had to learn how to motina ly let go there old life and grow into a father. . Do you think the fathers enjoy fatherhood more today than in the past? Why or why not? I think that they enjoy being fathers because it has made them focus on there relationship. 4. What are some of the difficulties that new fathers (and mothers) face? Having a social life, and having alone time. 1. What are some of the benefits of being â€Å"childish†? it gives reasons of why not to do things. 2. Why does Svitak say that adults should listen and earn from kids and not Just have kids learning from kids?Do you agree? Why or why not? I disagree because in reality children aren't trusted to teach parents. 3. Why is trust important in the relationship between kids and adults for learning to take place? Because if you dont trust someone you restrict them. 4. Do you agree with Svitak that parents and adults should have high expectations for kids? Why? Yes because later in life when you reach your expectation you can probably excee d higher than your expectations.

Thursday, August 15, 2019

Khalifa Ali

IntroductionAli was born to Abu Talib himself a renowned Quraish chief and custodian of the Holy Kaaba. Abu Talib’s father, Abdul Muttalib was the son of the great Hashim. Ali’s mother was Fatima, daughter of Asad who too was a son of Hashim. Fatima was a cousin of Abu Talib. Thus both of Ali’s parents were Hashemite, which was considered quite prestigious.Ancestry of AliThe Holy Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him) was Abdul Muttalib’s grandson. His father Abdullah was Abu Talib’s brother, which therefore made Abu Talib the prophet’s uncle and Ali his first cousin.Birth of AliAlthough his exact date of birth is not confirmed tradition says, Ali was born on the thirteenth of â€Å"Rajab† in the 28th year of the Elephant Era (whose commencement is marked by Yemen’s ruler Abraha’s failed attempt to invade Makkah and destroy the Kaaba) The Holy Prophet of Islam was born in the Year of the Elephant which according to scholars corresponds to the year 571 A.D. If we calculate then, Ali must have been born around 599 or 600 C.E.His birth was quite an unusual one. That day, his mother Fatima visited the Kaaba for pilgrimage. It was during her pilgrimage that she felt maternal pains and retired to a corner of the Kaaba and that is where Ali was born. Thus, Ali had the unparalleled honor of being born in the House of Allah bestowed upon him.The NameLegend goes that when Ali was born the Holy prophet and his wife Khadija came to see the infant. That the little boy had not yet opened his eyes was a matter of great worry for everyone. But when the prophet Muhammad held him in his hands young Ali opened his eyes, making the prophet the first person he saw after birth. The Holy Prophet named him ‘Ali’ the derivative of Allah, since he was born the Ka’aba.Physical AppearanceAli was of a moderate height. He held a gracious face which reflected his personality. His facial features were striking wi th a straight nose and a beautifully formed mouth. He possessed commanding eyes, full of light and luster.   It was as if rays of spirituality   beamed through him , and there was a certain sense of personal magnetism that attracted people towards him. As a young man, Ali was handsome, while in his later age, he became bulky with his gray hair of the head giving way to baldness. His beard, which was often dyed red, remained thick and luxuriant.Marriage of AliInitially when the Holy Prophet migrated to Yathrib he went alone but later Yathrib was named ‘Medina’ in his honor and he called his family and other Muslims there as well. At that time the prophet’s beloved wife Khadija had expired and he had married a woman called Sauda. A year later, he married Abu Bakr’s ( Islam’s first Caliph’s)daughter Ayesha. The Holy Prophet’s youngest daughter Fatima was also old enough to be married by that time. Abu Bakr and Omar both asked for her hand in marriage but there was no answer on the part of the Holy Prophet Muhammad.In those simpler times, age differences were not a concern in marriage. Khadija had been fifteen years older to Muhammad and he himself was much older to Ayesha at the time of marriage. It is thus important to note that this was not the reason the Prophet Muhammad remained silent to these proposals but it is reasonable to conclude that he was waiting for God’s approval and guidance in making this decision. After the Battle of Badr, it was Ali’s turn to ask for Fatima’s hand in marriage and he did so. The Holy Prophet replied that he needed Fatima’s consent. When he consulted Fatima she remained silent, a   sign of approval. The prophet also received a revelation signifying Allah’s approval of the marriage. Both families also mutually agreed.The marriage of Ali and Fatima is said to be the perfect one. Indeed two pure and blessed souls unified and bonded together. Ha fsa, a daughter of Omar and later a wife of the Holy Prophet described Fatima as an exemplary woman, one who’s face shone like the moon and who married a man with a superior personality.Induction of Ali as a member of the family of the Holy ProphetWhen Ali visited the Holy Prophet from the desert where he had been living, the occasion was also attended by a close few including Abu Talib and his family. The Holy Prophet loved Ali very much so much so that he requested Abu Talib to place Ali under his care. Abu Talib agreed to entrust Ali with the prophet because he knew he would care for him better than anyone else could.It is believed that the Holy Prophet did this to relieve Abu Talib’s increasing financial worries. However, this view seems to be untrue because Abu Talib was a Quraish chief and a trader. And had he been in any financial trouble the trouble he prophet would surely have helped him. Therefore it seems that it was because of the prophet’s fondness of Ali that he took him under his responsibility. Abu Talib would often visit and Ali would meet his parents everyday. The Holy Prophet kept Ali as a younger brother with much affection.Companionship of the Holy Prophet:The period of Ali's life which was spent with the Holy Prophet can be termed as the period of education and action. It was during these 32 years, from Ali's birth till the demise of the Holy Prophet, that Ali received his education under the loving care of the Last Prophet of Allah; embedded in himself the values of Islam; and acquired all the attributes that contribute to greatness. After the migration to Medina, he came to be known as a valiant soldier. His spoils in the battles of Badr, Uhud and the Ditch and his awe inspiring success at Khyber earned him the title of â€Å"Lion of God†.   He acted as the Governor of Yemen, and acquired good deal of experience as an administrator and judge, acquiring fame for his wise and well reasoned judgments.The First Three Caliphs and Ali:At the time of the demise of the Holy Prophet, Ali was a young enlightened, experienced, wise and valiant man. Despite all his qualities, Ali was passed over in the election for a caliph, as Abu Bakr took the state of affairs under his control. Ali would have to wait for 24 years before he could hold the office of caliph. During these years, Ali acted as an adviser to the caliphs in office. This was a period of inaction and contemplation, inaction on the political front as Ali kept aloof from politics and contemplation on the spiritual front as this period of Ali’s life was spent mostly in seeking spiritual perfection through prayer and remembrance of God.The Caliphate of Ali:Following Uthman's assassination, Ali took office as the next caliph of the Islamic empire. His term was a short one, marred by political upheaval, defections of close aides and civil war.   Ali was accused of involvement in the assassination of Uthman by Amer Muawiya, who mounte d an anti Ali campaign. The results were the Battles of the Camel, Siffin and Nahrawan. During the course of these battles, many of his closest aides betrayed him and defected. The list of betrayals is long and includes Ali's brother, cousins, mother in law and the whole cities of Medina and Basra. The Kharijites who had originally supported Ali also seceded and Ali was finally martyred by a Kharijite.Ali's concept of GodIn his various sermons, Ali has dwelt upon on the various attributes of God in a skillful way. Extracts from some of his sermons are as follows:   Ã¢â‚¬Å"All praise is due to the creator of the world whose wisdom is hidden. The various subjects of nature openly confirm his existence. He is not surpassed in strength and superiority. He is the nearest to us. No one can be nearer to us than He.His distance height has not segregated Him from His creation, and His nearness has not established His equality with His creation. He is that sublime and matchless Being in com prehending when the intellect cannot reach the bottom of His attributes, yet nothing prevents a person from comprehending Him. He is that being whose existence even an atheist feels in His heart of hearts. Undoubtedly God is free and sublime and bears no comparison with anyone, then how can anyone have the audacity to deny Him.†Father of SufismAli's religious devotion and nearness to God has earned him the title of â€Å"Father of Sufism†. Most of the Sufi orders claim their descent from Ali, and according to Ali Hajjweri, Ali is ranked very high in the line of Sufism.   Ali is considered the Shaykh as regards the principles and practices of Sufism, as stated by Junayd of Baghdad.Communion with GodAt times, Ali would pray the whole night sobbing out of love and fear of God. For Ali, the purpose of knowledge was to awaken the spiritual faculties that every man possesses which in turn enable man to find his true and inner self.   Ali observed that man could only enjoy communion with God if he would stop being proud, embody discipline, overcome his lust and submit to the Will of God.He stressed on the people in his various sermons to lead a simple and pious life and not to indulge blindly in the pleasures of the world as the case was before Islam.. Ali said, â€Å"Man is a wave in the boundless Sea of God. As long as man's vision is clouded by ignorance and sensuality he will consider himself a separate entity, different from God. But when the veil between him and God is lifted, he will then know what he really is, the wave will then merge with the ocean†.Ali on the Spiritual Front:Ali was a wealth of knowledge. Several of the traditions (Ahadith) of the Holy Prophet are narrated by him. He was one of those companions of the Holy Prophet who used to learn the verses of the Quran as they were revealed. Later, after the death of the Holy Prophet, Ali also used to give sermons. In one such sermon, he explains the attributes of God with skillf ul oratory. Excerpts â€Å"All praise is due to the creator of the world whose wisdom is hidden. The various subjects of nature openly confirm his existence. He is not surpassed in strength and superiority. He is the nearest to us.No one can be nearer to us than He. His distance height has not segregated Him from His creation, and His nearness has not established His equality with His creation. He is that sublime and matchless Being in comprehending when the intellect cannot reach the bottom of His attributes, yet nothing prevents a person from comprehending Him. He is that being whose existence even an atheist feels in His heart of hearts. Undoubtedly God is free and sublime and bears no comparison with anyone, then how can anyone have the audacity to deny Him.†In another sermon, he reflected on the transitory stature of this world by remarking â€Å"For the wise, the world is a shadow, which may appear at one moment, and soon disappear.† In another sermon he makes pr ofound remarks by stating â€Å"Many men buy clothes, which instead of being worn by them are used in their coffin. Many persons build houses that instead of becoming abodes become their graves. No one has lived forever in this world, and no one has invented such a medicine which may make men immune from the clutches of death†. In another sermon, he discusses heaven and hell, stating his anxiety on man's subservience to lust, the excess of his longings. In yet another sermon, he termed the world as superficial, mortal and perishable.ConclusionShakespeare once remarked â€Å"Some people are born great, some achieve greatness while some have greatness thrust upon them†. As far as Ali goes, he achieved greatness through his excellent education under the watchful eye of the Holy Prophet, his absorption of Islamic teachings and virtues, his thirst for knowledge, bravery on the battlefield and the spiritual perfection that he embodied. Greatness need not be confused with suc cess. From the political point of view Ali may seem like a failure that was unable to quell the civil strife that raged his people and was eventually slay Ed. Instead Ali's greatness is of an unworldly nature for he set out to spiritually perfect those around him, in times of affluence and wealth.Ali was a man of remarkable qualities and principles. His personality embodied an unusual mix of spiritual perfection, bravery, knowledge and humbleness. He was one of those few people of his time, who could stare in the eyes of death so much that even death would start fearing of him He was an administrator, a judge, a philosopher, a statesman, a general and above all an exemplary for those seeking spiritual perfection.