MANAGING PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

MANAGING PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT - Essay Example ersonal styles. My own results from taking the inventory report that my strengths lie mostly in musical, existential and intrapersonal intelligences, as I got a perfect score on these sections. Next to these, I scored 90 in Kinesthetic and Verbal intelligences, followed by a score of 70 in naturalist, interpersonal and visual intelligences. I scored lowest in logical intelligence, garnering a score of 60. VARK Test VARK stands for Visual, Aural, Read/Write and Kinesthetic learning styles. It is an online questionnaire that asks 16 questions to measure which reflects the learning style of the test-taker. VISUAL- learners who would like to  see it on the whiteboard, flip charts, walls, graphics, pictures, colour. AUDITORY-learners who would like to sit back and listen. ... Team roles improve self-knowledge and understanding among individuals and teams. They also depict a current behavioral pattern at a certain point in a person’s life. Preferences are not fixed, since many factors can influence behavior, whether a new job, promotion or circumstances outside work. My Belbin Test Results Preferred Roles: Teamworker Manageable Roles: Resource Investigator/ Plant Least Preferred Roles: Shaper MBTI (Myers-Briggs test) This theory measures psychological preferences in how people perceive the world and make decisions. The preferences indicate the differences in people based on the following: How they focus their attention or get their energy (Extraversion or Introversion) How they perceive or take in information (Sensing or Intuition) How they prefer to make decisions (Thinking or Feeling) How they orient themselves to the external world (Judgment or Perception) Myer-Briggs Test Result: ESFJ & ENFJ Self-Assessments Self-assessments are effective ways f or individuals to evaluate themselves to see how far they have come in terms of progress in one area or another and to know their strengths and weaknesses. Self-assessments can come in various forms. Some are simple reflective practices while others entail taking some tests. Self-assessments, including those done by practitioners in clinical environments are truly helpful in one’s learning and professional development as individuals who assess themselves either through reflective practice or test-taking, find ways to be better learners. This begins with the realization that they need to improve on the weaknesses reflected in the assessment as well as honing the

High School vs College Essay Example for Free

High School vs College Essay The transition from high school to college is not only an exciting and challenging time, but also a great milestone in one’s life. There are several differences between the lives of high school and college students. Some individuals will be able to jump right in and adjust to this change seamlessly, while others may take years to adapt, or never even grab hold of the whole college experience at all. High school and College are both educational grounds for a student to grow and enrich their lives with knowledge. Both are like puzzle pieces: on one side they fit together, but on the other side they are something completely different. High school is a continuation of elementary and middle school, wherein students learn what is expected of them in regards to the standard of education set by the government. Up until the age of eighteen, students have no choice but to attend school as it is required by law. During school hours there are rules and regulations which one must follow, or be reprimanded otherwise. There is also a strict schedule that students must follow. Along with basic classes, there is also social learning that takes place at the same time. Students must still understand how to react to certain situations, such as if it is rude to talk over someone else who started talking first. High school also presents a wide variety of activities and field trips. With four years of experience and routine, adolescents become sufficiently acclimated to high school. College, contrarily, is a new experience all together. Individuals are not legally required to attend college, but those who choose to do so have the opportunity to select which university he/she wishes to attend. Acceptance is not always guaranteed, of course. If one is accepted, one can pick and choose which classes to take. Aside from core curriculum, these classes usually correspond to a specific degree that a student declares, allowing  one the opportunity to build their school schedule around their otherwise busy lives. People can really see the distinctive differences these two phase in life; however, there are also some similarities you will carry on during your transition into college lives. Friends from your high school will always be there for you especially when you keep a constant connection between them. Studying habits such as cramming for test or homework, creating during a test or copying another student’s homework, breaking the rules and disciplinary sanctions are still evident in both high school and college. We all know that everyone goes through high school and college. We can compare that college is much more challenging and complex than high school. This is a higher level of learning, thus, requiring more time, effort as well as devotion to studies. Even though college is very tiring at times, I still believe that college is much more enjoyable and exciting. To have that kind of freedom in your schedule is very rewarding; however, proper judgment is a must since we are all mature students now. High School students don’t need to pay tuition; government-funded. Don’t need to pay for residence, rent or other accommodation such (e.g. can live at home for free don’t need to pay for books) books are provided by school in high school. Student has fewer assignments on average of 1-3 assignments per week. Student don’t nee Body Paragraphs (A) College (B) High school (1) Cost Topic sentence College is more expensive than high school because of tuition, living expenses, and books. tuition: $1,500 $2,000 per term must pay for residence, rent, or other accommodation if living away from home o e.g. rent can be $400-$600 per month; residence $2,000 per term must pay for books: $300-500 per term don’t need to pay tuition; governmentfunded don’t need to pay for residence, rent, or other accommodation o e.g. can live at home for free don’t need to pay for books o e.g. books provided by school (2) Workload Topic Sentence The workload in college is more challenging than the workload in high school. more assignments: average of 3-5 assignments per week more time and effort needed to complete assignments successfully o e.g. because assignments are more challenging, they take on average 2-8 hours to complete assignments worth greater percentage of final grade o e.g. every assignment worth an average of 25-50% of final grade fewer assignments: average of 1-3 assignments per week less time and effort needed  to complete assignments successfully o e.g. assignments are less challenging and can be completed quickly before class assignments were a lower percentage of final grade o e.g. every assignment worth an average of 5-20% of final grade (3) Social Aspects Topic Sentence College offers more activities, sports, and clubs than high school. can play on varsity sports teams or make use of athletic facilities o Hockey, volleyball, football o Work out in gym, pool, and weight room can attend pub nights at on- campus pub o special Halloween, Christmas, and Valentine’s Day pub nights can get to know fellow students through social activities, such as Orientation week there are many sports teams, but no varsity teams o hockey, volleyball, football o no workout facilities, pool, or weight room there are no pubs on-campus at high school because too many students are underage. in order to meet a variety of students, must participate in activities outside of class e.g. no orientation week Thesis Statement: College is more expensive, presents more academic challenges, and offers a more social environment than high school. Concluding Sentence: When college and high school are contrasted on the basis of financial, academic, and social aspects, it becomes clear that college is more costly, more academically challenging and more socially stimulating that high school environment.

Physiological Effects Of Obesity Essay

Physiological Effects Of Obesity Essay Measuring body shape can be a rich data about health and the risk of disease. Measuring anthropometry manually could be time-consuming, only a few indexes of shape (e.g. body girths and their ratios) are used regularly in clinical practice or epidemiology, both of which still rely primarily on body mass index (BMI). Three-dimensional (3-D) body scanning provides high-quality digital information about shape. Obesity, on the other hand, is the accumulation of excess body fat, whereby a sizeable amount of adipose tissue goes untapped. Obesity results from the imbalance between energy intake and energy expenditure. This imbalance may be the result, individually or concomitantly, of excess caloric intake, decreased physical activity, metabolic disorders, and genetics (National Institutes of Health, 1998; Berg, 1993). Genetics are seen to influence whether an individual can become obese, while environment determines whether the individual actually does become obese, as well as the extent of the obesity (Meyer Stunkard, 1993).Obesity is a health disorder in which a person gains at least 20% of the usual body weight because of the increase in the fat cells (adipose tissues) in the body. This accumulation of excess fat causes serious threat to health. The adverse health conditions can lead to various physical and emotional problems. These include cardiac diseases, high pressure and even differe nt forms of cancers, apart from depression and diabetes. In recent times, obesity has become one of the vital health problems in the society. According to estimates, there are more than 1 billion obese people in the world. Generally, faulty food habits, excess intake of food and hormonal imbalance are the main causes of this disorder. 1.2 Symptoms of Obesity a) Excessive weight within a short period of time. He/she usually gains 4-5 kilos every month, such that the metabolism process becomes difficult to control. b) The chest area tends to look larger, especially in men as the body fat starts getting accumulated in that area at the initial stage. In women, fat gets accumulated in the waists, thigh, upper arms and breasts. This is a major symptom of obesity. c) The size of the abdomen tends to enlarge. At times, there are whitish marks on the abdomen areas due to the excess accumulation of fatty tissues. d) Another preliminary symptom is that the person tends to have shortness of breath. He cannot breathe properly because of the accumulation of excess fat in the chest area and below the diaphragm. e) Most people start suffering from indigestion due to an excess of abdominal fat. At the same, time, Urinary incontinence or urine leakage happens, mostly to women. Although most of this underreported, this can be taken as a serious symptom of obesity. Abdominal obesity is also marked by symptoms such as snoring and sleeps disturbances. f) One of the scientific ways of understanding obesity is by calculating the body mass index (BMI). It is the ratio of the persons height to weight. According to the World Health Organization, if the BMI is in the range of 25-29, a person is overweight and if the BMI is 30 and above, the person is considered to be obese. 1.3 Effects of obesity on human body The effects of obesity extend far beyond physical weight and related health problems. Obesity side effects can include a greater risk of mental health problems and low self-esteem. Social attitudes on obesity range from avoidance to outright discrimination and bullying. The effects of obesity on physical health are well documented. The Stanford Hospital (2010) reports obesity causes up to 300,000 premature deaths a year in the United States alone. Obesity health effects range from backaches and joint pain to life-threatening conditions. The following is a list of health conditions attributed to obesity. This list is by no means exhaustive; the effects of obesity on physical health care, unfortunately, many and varied. Physical disorders Obesity can cause serious physical disorders. It may lead to chronic diseases, disability and eventually death if not treated correctly and at the right time. Let us examine some of the physical effects of obesity. Decreased mobility It becomes difficult for obese people to move around. They often feel tired and breathless as they have much accumulation of fat in the chest, neck and associated areas of the body. There is a constant feeling of breathlessness and fatigue, which leads lack of activity and movement. Cardiac disease People who are obese generally have frequent chest pains and higher risks of heart attack. Congestive heart failure is also common for such people. At the same time, it is common for obese people to have high blood pressure compared to those who maintain a healthy body weight. Cancer It has been observed that obese people have an increased risk of certain cancers. These include cancers of the gall bladder, uterus, colon, prostrate and kidney, among others. Obese women are more prone to breast cancers in their mid-lives. Arthritis Obesity is strongly associated with joint pain and arthritis. It is common for obese men and women to have osteoarthritis, which is a joint disorder, causing ache and inflammation especially in areas such as lower backs, waists and knees. 1.4 Measurement of Obesity BMI is a measurement of body weight based on height and weight. Although BMI does not actually measure percentage of body fat, it is a useful tool to estimate a healthy body weight based on height. Due to its ease of measurement and calculation, it is the most widely used diagnostic indicator to identify a persons optimal weight depending on his height. BMI number will inform one if one is underweight, of normal weight, overweight, or obese. However, due to the wide variety of body types, the distribution of muscle and bone mass, etc., it is not appropriate to use this as the only or final indication for diagnosis. In adults, a BMI of 25 to 29.9kg/m2 means that person is considered to be overweight, and a BMI of 30kg/m2 or above means that person is considered to be obese. The use of BMI as a measure of body composition has met with some criticism (Blew, et al., 2002; Duerenberg, Yap van Staveren, 1998; Gallagher, et al., 1996; Prentice Jebb, 2001). Clinical and laboratory studies often employ more sophisticated measures of body composition and distribution, such as: measures of electrical impedance; underwater weighing; or circumference measures determining fat distribution via a waist to hip ratio. While these measures allow for a very detailed examination of body composition, they require specialized equipment and training to collect, and are not practical for large surveys. Notwithstanding, BMI has shown to be a relatively strong metric for body composition. Recent studies show that electrical impedance is not superior to BMI as a predictor of overall adiposity (Willett, et al., 2006) and in clinical samples, Ensrud and colleagues (1994) found the relationship between BMI and functioning to be stronger than that for waist to hip ratio and functio ning. 1.5 BMI Table for Adults This is the World Health Organizations (WHO) recommended body weight based on BMI values for adults. It is used for both men and women, age 18 or older. Category BMI range kg/m2 Severely underweight Underweight 16.5 18.5 Normal 18.5 25 Overweight 25 30 Obese Class I 30 35 Obese Class II 35 40 Obese Class III > 40 1.7 Ethnicity Analyses have revealed significant differences in size and body shape between ethnic groups and social categories within the US population, and have further demonstrated significant differences in body shape between US and UK white adults. These differences may prove to play a key role in accounting for differences in morbidity and mortality between these populations and social groups. (Table1.2) Table 1.2 Body shape in American and British adults: between country and inter-ethnic comparisons Comments Wells et al. (2007) Adults17+ yrs from UK (3907M and 4710F white), and from USA (1744M and 3329F, 709M and 1106F African and 639M and 839F Hispanic). Two National Sizing Surveys, SizeUK and SizeUSA, were conducted using identical instrumentation, study design and recruitment strategy. All Outcomes (except height) adjusted for height P In USA, socio-economic status was associated with increasing height and decreasing waist girth in white and Hispanic, but not African Americans. Compared to white British, white Americans had larger weight and girths, especially waist girth in men. Long Study population, some subjects may withdraw before the end of study, Lynch et al. (2006) 5,115, by ethnicity (Black/White), sex, age (18-24years/25-30 years). Body size judgments were obtained using the Stunkard figure rating scale. Black men (p Black men were slightly younger, and had higher BMIs than White participants. Stunkard scale was for White persons, may not be good for Black persons. Pepper et al (2010) 70 women evaluated for waist and hip circumference and waist: hip ratio via laser scanner and tape measure. In a subset of 34 participants, 8 repeated measures of laser scanning were performed for reproducibility analysis. Interclass correlation coefficient .992, p Evaluation of waist and hip circumferences measured by body scanning did not differ significantly from tape measure (p > 0.05). Small study population 1.8 Causes of Obesity Obesity does not just happen overnight, it develops gradually from poor diet and lifestyle choices and, to some extent, from ones genes (the units of genetic material inherited from ones parents). Lifestyle choices are an important factor in influencing your weight. Eating more calories than you need may be down to unhealthy food choices. For example, unhealthy food choices could be: eating processed or fast food that is high in fat, not eating fruit, vegetables and unrefined carbohydrates, such as wholemeal bread and brown rice, drinking too much alcohol alcohol contains a lot of calories, and heavy drinkers are often overweight, and eating out a lot as you may have a starter or dessert in a restaurant, and the food can be higher in fat and sugar, eating larger portions than you need you may be encouraged to eat too much if your friends or relatives are also eating large portions, and comfort eating if you feel depressed or have low self-esteem you may comfort eat to make yourself feel better. Lack of physical activity is another important factor that is related to obesity. Many people have jobs that involve sitting at a desk for most of the day, and rely heavily on their cars to get around. When it is time to relax, people tend to watch TV, or play computer games, and rarely take any regular exercise. If you are not active enough, you do not use up the energy provided by the food you eat, and the extra calories are stored as fat instead. Some people tend to stay the same weight for years without much effort, whereas others find they put on weight quickly if they are not careful about what they eat. This could be due, in part, to your genes. Some genetic conditions can increase your appetite, so you end up eating too much. There are also genes that determine how much fat your body stores. A particular genetic variation could mean that your body is more likely to store fat than somebody else. 1.9 Patterns of Obesity in the Population The composition of the body and how fat is stored changes with age, and different metabolic and hormonal factors influence body fat accumulation throughout the life spectrum (Schwartz, 1995; Beaufrere Morio, 2000). In cross-sectional studies, peak values of BMI are observed in the age range 50-59 in both men and women, with gradual declines in BMI after age 60 (Flegal, et al., 1998; Hedley, et al., 2004;), although premature mortality of the obese may influence these cross-sectional relationships (Williamson, 1993). Rates of overweight and obesity in longitudinal studies generally increase with age until age 75, when there is a small drop (Flegal, et al., 1998;). Men are more likely than women to be overweight, but women are more likely to be obese, especially with BMIs greater than 35 (Hedley, et al., 2004). Differences in overweight and obesity rates for women vary starkly by race and ethnicity but are not as apparent for men (Flegal, et al., 1998; Hedley, et al., 2004). According to the National Center for Health Statistics analysis of NHANES data (Hedley, et al., 2004), 77.5 percent of Black women are overweight, compared to 71.4 percent of Mexican women and 57 percent of White women. The prevalence of obesity is similarly skewed with the rates for Black, Mexican and White women at 49.6 percent, 38.9 percent and 31.3 percent, respectively. In fact, over 10 percent of middle-aged Black women have BMIs greater than 40 (Flegal, et al., 1998). 1.10 Relationship of Body Size to Mortality and Disease It is well established that overweight and obesity are significantly related to higher rates of several chronic health conditions including diabetes, hypertension, high cholesterol, coronary heart disease, arthritis, and certain types of cancer (Mokdad, et al., 2003; Flegal, et al., 2007). The relationship between obesity and mortality has been less definitive, but recent research has documented a stronger association than years past. 1.11 Relationship of Body Size to Functional Status The shape comparison of average women obtained from 3 different surveys gives an indication of the profound changes that have occurred in anthropometry over the last half-century. The average UK woman has increased substantially in weight and body girths since 1951 (Kemsley, 1957), gaining 16 cm in WC despite being only 4 cm taller. The average contemporary US woman has even greater waist and weight than her UK counterpart, despite being 3 cm shorter. As is well recognized, the US population began the trend toward obesity earlier than did European populations, and, without progress in obesity prevention, the UK population is likely to continue to expand in weight and girths. In cross-sectional analyses, obese individuals tend to have an increased prevalence of both upper and lower body functional limitations (Apovian, et al., 2002), and the relationship between obesity and limitations appears to be slightly higher for elderly women than elderly men (Davison, et al., 2002). Longitudinal studies find that these relationships hold for the onset of limitations as well (Ferraro, et al., 2002; Himes, 2000; Jenkins, 2004). Excess weight adds stress to the skeleton and weight-bearing joints, increasing the likelihood of arthritis and joint problems. Physiologically, excess weight leads to increased insulin resistance, damages connective tissues and leads to atherogenesis. It is hypothesized that these changes can lead to decreased functioning (Ferraro Booth, 1999). Obesity may also limit physical activity, depriving individuals of the benefits of exercise and leading to the development of limitations in activities of daily living (ADLs) and instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs) such as climbing stairs, getting out of bed, or going shopping. 1.12 Aim and Objectives Aim and objectives are to study the physiological effects of obesity and 3D body scanning. To study UCL population in conjunction with Wellbeing UCL survey To examine available data from UCL Wellbeing survey To statistically analyse data obtained To evaluate the data To make deductions from these data about the effect of obesity on the physiological parameters have looked at. To conclude with implication of my findings

Sir Gawain and the Green Knight :: Essays Papers

Sir Gawain and the Green Knight What makes a man a hero? Where lies the line which when crossed changes a mortal man into a legend? Is it at the altar at Canterbury? in the Minotaur’s labyrinth? or is it an age or a time? Does a man become a hero when he transforms from a boy to an adult? or when he stops being a man and becomes a martyr? Where are the heroes of 1993? In whom do the children of this age believe? Like whom do they strive to be? Kennedy, Lennon, and even Superman are dead. World leaders are mockeries of real men, more like Pilates than Thomas Mores. Pop culture’s icons change daily. It is interesting that nearly 600 years ago someone was writing about heroism in a way that can be understood today. The poet of Sir Gawain and the Green Knight tells a tale in which a man is proven to be a hero through the seemingly un-heroic decisions made in the course of numerous tests. Sir Gawain is a hero for the 21st century. He is tried and trapped, he is inundated with opportunities to fail and yet he does not lose. More importantly though, in the end he learns an essential, inescapable fact about himself and human nature. What makes a man a hero? Just before he leaves Camelot in search for the Green Knight, Sir Gawain gives perhaps the best possible answer to this question: â€Å"In destinies sad or merry, True men can but try.† Tests and decisions are as numerous in any man’s life as are the beats of his heart. The consequences he incurs follow him forever; he is judged by them and they affect his entire existence. Gawain’s statement is not merely profound sentiment, useful even today as a measure of a man’s mettle. It is also, coming as early as it does in Part II of the poem, a harbinger of how Gawain’s tale may end. It tells a reader that Gawain means to do his level best in his grand endeavor and if in but one small way he should fail, do not persecute him until considering how a different man may have fared. Gawain, similar to most of the characters in the tale, is tested on several occasions. In the poem, as in real life, judgment should not be passed on a man’s single decisions individually, but only by observing how he has chosen to live his life. Sir Gawain and the Green Knight :: Essays Papers Sir Gawain and the Green Knight What makes a man a hero? Where lies the line which when crossed changes a mortal man into a legend? Is it at the altar at Canterbury? in the Minotaur’s labyrinth? or is it an age or a time? Does a man become a hero when he transforms from a boy to an adult? or when he stops being a man and becomes a martyr? Where are the heroes of 1993? In whom do the children of this age believe? Like whom do they strive to be? Kennedy, Lennon, and even Superman are dead. World leaders are mockeries of real men, more like Pilates than Thomas Mores. Pop culture’s icons change daily. It is interesting that nearly 600 years ago someone was writing about heroism in a way that can be understood today. The poet of Sir Gawain and the Green Knight tells a tale in which a man is proven to be a hero through the seemingly un-heroic decisions made in the course of numerous tests. Sir Gawain is a hero for the 21st century. He is tried and trapped, he is inundated with opportunities to fail and yet he does not lose. More importantly though, in the end he learns an essential, inescapable fact about himself and human nature. What makes a man a hero? Just before he leaves Camelot in search for the Green Knight, Sir Gawain gives perhaps the best possible answer to this question: â€Å"In destinies sad or merry, True men can but try.† Tests and decisions are as numerous in any man’s life as are the beats of his heart. The consequences he incurs follow him forever; he is judged by them and they affect his entire existence. Gawain’s statement is not merely profound sentiment, useful even today as a measure of a man’s mettle. It is also, coming as early as it does in Part II of the poem, a harbinger of how Gawain’s tale may end. It tells a reader that Gawain means to do his level best in his grand endeavor and if in but one small way he should fail, do not persecute him until considering how a different man may have fared. Gawain, similar to most of the characters in the tale, is tested on several occasions. In the poem, as in real life, judgment should not be passed on a man’s single decisions individually, but only by observing how he has chosen to live his life.

Music and Cognitive Functioning Essay

Music is an art form and one of the most popular media utilized to convey ideas, views, and emotions. It plays various, significant part in everyone’s life. It can calm one’s mood and emotion. It can relax a person’s tensed body. However, it can also hype and motivate people. Music is also a means that we can use to express our ideas and messages. It can also be an extension of our personality and a manifestation of our identity. The type of music that we listen reflects what kind of person we are. It is often suggested to pregnant women to listen to classical music for it is believed that listening to classical music stimulates the baby’s activity inside the mother’s womb. It is also believed that listening to music by pregnant women increases the probability that their child will be intelligent. Some students can also study their lessons well while listening to music. The melodies and tunes make the environment conducive to learning. They tend to absorb and understand their lessons well while they are listening to their favorite songs. This idea poses the possibility of enhancing people’s cognitive capacity through music. Thus, this paper aims to discuss the relationship of music and a person’s cognitive capacity, and whether music increases a person’s intelligence. Music Music is an art, a craft, and an organized representation of sounds, silence, notes, and melodic tunes subjected in a time framework. Music includes a wide array of activities. It could be in the form of a mother putting her child to sleep through a lullaby, a group of kids singing their favorite nursery rhyme, a rock band playing their heart throbbing hits, or simply a person humming unconsciously (Miller 3). Music is a succession of arranged tones that produce a rhythm (Miller 3). This definition does not cover the characteristics of music, but it covers the description of the different genres people may be affiliated with. Music is relative and subjective. It conforms to the taste and preference of the person. Music lessons taught us that music is comprised of notes, staffs, pitch, and voice. These are the superficial discernible characteristics of music. These are the things you will learn in your music class. Music has different forms in various cultures, and it is experienced by individuals through different ways. Music has two subdivisions based on culture. These are the â€Å"high culture† and â€Å"low culture† types of music. High culture music is eminent in U. S. and Europe. This type of music includes the music of the western world formed during the different periods—Classical, Baroque, and Romantic, among others. It is considered as the art music and is performed in the concert halls and churches. It is treasured by people in the conventional music industry. The other type of music includes the contemporary kinds of music like jazz, blues, country, rock, pop, etc. Nowadays, the distinction between the high and low culture of music is widely accepted for it separates the quality of music of better quality, more advanced art music from the music played in the nightclubs and dance halls. Music and Intelligence People always look for ways and means to increase their intelligence. This is inherently true for parents, especially the first-time parents who want to practically boost the cognitive functioning of their children. There is news proliferated by the media that the music of Mozart can actually make a person smarter. Due to this evidence, some educators and policy makers even suggest that playing Mozart’s music in elementary schools should be mandated (Nairne 346). Everyone has been bestowed a gift to excel in different fields. Everyone has his or her own discernible characteristics that enable him or her to take on tasks. However, it was believed that people with high musical aptitude possess low academic aptitude. Nevertheless, in reality, there is no clear correlation between musical inclination and affinity and the academic performance or ability of a person (Gordon 22). Recently, there has been a media fuss questioning if the involvement in music makes a person smarter. There is a significant query of whether there is a â€Å"Mozart effect† if a person is involved in music. Does music enhance a person’s cognitive capacity? There are various studies reporting that music increases learning capability, while other research conducted shows otherwise. Hence, this only shows the limitations and the discrepancy in studying the impact of music on cognitive ability (Crowe 143). The researches conducted regarding the relationship of music and cognitive skills fall under music cognition. This particular field of study involves examination of the different aspects of cognition, including how music is processed by its listeners. It seeks to understand the underlying processes over the standard practices of analyzing, composing, and listening to music. Music has a significant impact on the brain processes. Learning is a complex process that cannot be reduced to a simple human process or experience. In learning, the development of a particular ability will enhance the abilities of a person (Crowe 143). There are really no sufficient analyses on the cognitive effects of long-term exposure to music and passive listening of music on intelligence. The most celebrated short-term effect of music on the increase in intelligence was the interpretation of the 1993 Mozart Effect study. Researchers claimed that 10 minutes exposure to compositions of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart could increase general IQ scores by 8 points (Brown and Volgsten 137). However, there are claims that the study lacks sufficient evidence that exposure to Mozart songs actually render the improvements on the cognitive functioning of an individual. An interesting article that was written by the proponents of the studies on Mozart effects states that there are other types of music which render similar effects, such as folk music, minimalist music, and other types of music that cause relaxation. They also compared the tests of their participants and saw no particular difference on the results on the tests which required remembering numbers and general tests of intelligence. Yet, the Mozart effect manifested in tests which required recognizing visual patterns and mentally rotating objects. The researchers, therefore, concluded that the exposure to Mozarts composition only affects the person’s spatial-reasoning abilities (Miche 16). Mozart songs may result in improvement for its omnificent and innovative schema. These songs activate the part of the brain which controls our spatial-reasoning tasks. Thus, this suggests that the persons involved may feel so relaxed and in a good mood, which allows them to perform the reasoning tasks better (Nairne 346). Furthermore, listening to Stephen King’s stories could also render Mozart effect, for the listeners find it enjoyable and entertaining. It relaxes them and enhances their spatial-reasoning skills. On the other hand, a study was conducted exposing participants to slow and sad selection of classical music, and significant findings failed to produce the Mozart effect. It greatly suggests that it is indeed the setting of the mood and arousal that are responsible for the improvements of the spatial-reasoning abilities of people (Nairne 346). The numerous studies mentioned earlier in the text only shows how psychological findings could be inaccurate and misused by the popular media. Although the various studies present valid findings, the improvements on the people’s abilities attributed to music were relatively minute and merely focused on a particular part of brain functioning. There are no stipulated evidences that suggest listening to Mozart or Stephen King produce lasting increase on the general intelligence. However, there may be ephemeral effects on the level of intelligence of a person. For instance, consuming anything that will make a person feel good and light would render the same improvements discussed by the researchers of Mozart effect. Thus, relaxing music makes one feel better about performing tasks, but it does not make hi or her smarter in any way (Nairne 346). Conclusion Music plays a significant role in everyone’s life. It is a tool for expressing our ideas and messages through the lyrics, melody, and rhythm of a song. It is an extension of our personality. We manifest ourselves—the kind of people we are—through the genre of music we listen to. Music inclination and intelligence have no significant correlation. There is a celebrated study which created hype in the media that exposure to Mozart’s composition have a significant increase on the general intelligence of a person. The Mozart effect is a study conducted which concluded that exposure to his music activates the brain functioning which controls the spatial-reasoning abilities. Another study conducted suggests that using slow and sad classical compositions to increase cognitive capacity. However, these types of music failed to render similar effects as the impact of Mozart’s songs. It therefore concludes that anything that makes you feel good and relaxed can make you perform a task better. Works Cited Brown, Steven and Ulrik Volgsten. Music and Manipulation: On the Social Uses and Social Control of Music. New York: Berghahn Books, Inc. , 2006. Crowe, Barbara J. Music and Soulmaking: Toward a New Theory of Music Therapy. Maryland: Scarecrow Press, Inc. , 2004. Gordon, Edwin E. A Music Learning Theory for Newborn and Young Children. Chicago, IL: GIA Publications, Inc. , 2003.

Prejudice in the Movie

This poignant and gripping film illustrates the reality of racial discrimination and bigotry among the contemporary society.   The diverse characters of people from different racial groups like Caucasians, African-Americans, Asians, Hispanics or Latinos are shown in this movie in the city of Los Angeles.It vividly displays so much prejudice, anger and fear of getting discriminated due to several reasons with the comeuppance of certain intense situations to the point where the one who is being inflicted retaliates back which sometimes could result to violence.Prejudice can be in the form of racism or sexism, manifested verbally, unconsciously or deliberately.   These people say what comes to their minds without the filters of propriety and compassion to others.   This class aided me to understand that people typecast or stereotype a person or group due to some irrational preconceived dislike.Based psychologically and socially, we may have experienced a traumatic or upsetting sit uation which made us form a bias against an individual. Economic background is also a basis of prejudice, disliking one belonging to the rich or the poor. Furthermore, raised in different cultures, it is inevitable that one dislikes another person’s behavior since it is different from what one is used to or has been raised in.Crash has expressively and effectively communicated to the viewers how people manifest prejudice to each other.   It displayed how one character can become the offender at one time and a victim in another discrimination situation.   This just shows how each one of us has a prejudice over someone or something.   Movies like Crash, try to impart the harsh realities to provide us the awareness and awaken us to elicit improvement in whatever we fall short of in a personal level as well as in the community.   It forces us to face what is happening so that someday we may have a world free of prejudice.REFERENCECheadle, D., Haggis, P., Moresco, R., Schu lman, C., & Yari, B. (Producers), Haggis, P.  (Director). (2005). Crash [Motion Picture]. United States: Lions Gate Films

Meiosis Study Guide, Overview and Diagrams

Meiosis Study Guide, Overview and Diagrams Overview of Meiosis Meiosis is a two-part cell division process in organisms that sexually reproduce. Meiosis produces gametes with one half the number of chromosomes as the parent cell. In some respects, meiosis is very similar to the process of mitosis, yet it is also fundamentally different from mitosis.The two stages of meiosis are meiosis I and meiosis II. At the end of the meiotic process, four daughter cells are produced. Each of the resulting daughter cells has one half of the number of chromosomes as the parent cell. Before a dividing cell enters meiosis, it undergoes a period of growth called interphase.During interphase the cell increases in mass, synthesizes DNA and protein, and duplicates its chromosomes in preparation for cell division. Meiosis I Meiosis I encompasses four stages: Prophase I - chromosomes condense and begin migrating toward the metaphase plate. Metaphase I - chromosomes align at the metaphase plate. Anaphase I - homologous chromosomes separate and move toward opposite cell poles. Telophase I - cytoplasm divides producing two cells with a haploid number of chromosomes. Sister chromatids remain together. Meiosis II Meiosis II encompasses four stages: Prophase II - chromosomes begin migrating to the metaphase II plate. Metaphase II - chromosomes align at the metaphase II plate. Anaphase II - sister chromatids separate and begin moving to opposite ends of the cell. Telophase II - new nuclei form around daughter chromosomes and the cytoplasm divides. At the end of meiosis II, four daughter cells are produced. Each of these resulting daughter cells is haploid. Meiosis ensures that the correct number of chromosomes per cell is preserved during sexual reproduction. In sexual reproduction, haploid gametes unite to form a diploid cell called a zygote. In humans, male and female sex cells contain 23 chromosomes and all other cells contain 46 chromosomes. After fertilization, the zygote contains two sets of chromosomes for a total of 46. Meiosis also ensures that genetic variation occurs through genetic recombination that happens between homologous chromosomes during meiosis. Stages, Diagrams, and Quiz OverviewStages of MeiosisMeiosis DiagramsGlossary of TermsQuiz Next Stages of Meiosis

During world war 2 essays

During world war 2 essays During World War 2, many children were moved from areas that were at risk from bombing. The children had to leave their families and go to live with strangers in less dangerous parts of the country. This was called evacuation. Some thought it would be fun and exciting, like an adventure. All the younger boys thought it was a holiday, but not sure why the women and girls were crying. However, many discovered that life away from home didnt turn out to be as good as they thought. The first school children were evacuated on the 1st September, 1939 which was the day Germany invaded Poland. In the first three days of September 1939, nearly 3,000,000 people were transported to the countryside, these were mostly children. Children under five went with their parents and schoolchildren went with their teachers. They thought that they would be home before Christmas. It was usually the poorer children which were not used to travelling. The more rich children were more used to travelling and being long distances away. Some parents even visited their children at weekends! Within a week, a quarter of the people living in Britain would have new homes. At the start of the war schools were moved together. The children wore identity labels, gasmasks hanging from their necks and a small suitcase full of clothes and food for the day. They left in the early in the morning when it was dark. Most of them were schoolchildren, who had been sent away were labelled like pieces of luggage, separated from their parents and accompanied by new people and teachers. They were just numbers in some peoples view! Most parents tried not to cry and some parents just couldn't let go. Parents gave instructions to their children, some of these were to look after their brother or sister and not to forget to write home. The teachers or supervisors kept the children happy and told them not to worry. Most Kids were in good moods. But that was...

HR Project Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

HR Project - Assignment Example In order to comply with this strategy the workplace environment of the firm has to change to become more attractive for the personnel. Employees get better at their jobs over time when they master the learning curve. The learning curve is a graph that depicts the mastery of skill by an individual or group of people over the course of time (Answer). Having competent employees that know how to provide customer service will ensure that the company retains all its current business contracts. In order to make the company grow the managers of the company have to emphasize the marketing function. Satisfied corporate customer can serve examples that can be showcased by the executive salespeople when a making a pitch to a sales lead. Increasing the sales of the company can improve the profitability of the company. Another way to improve the profitability of the firm is by lowering cost. In order to improve the individual performance of the employees of the company the managers have to take measures to make it happen. A way a manager can influence the performance of the workers is by motivating them. Motivation can be defined as individual forces that account for the direction, level, and persistence of a person’s effort exerted at work (Schermerhorn & Osborn & Hunt). A way to motivate employees is by providing rewards or incentives. For example the customer service personnel can be given a bonus based on the amount of satisfied customers they serve during a work shift. Managers can also provide non-financial rewards to motive employees such as giving them recognition and telling them they are doing a good job. In order to relieve the tension at work the company should increase the amount of break times the employees are entitled too. Retaining talent is important for the company. A way to inspire these workers is by offering promotion or ascension opportunit ies. Another important

The United States Stand on Terrorism Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words - 3

The United States Stand on Terrorism - Essay Example In the 1960s to ’70s, domestic terrorism became rampant involving hijacking of planes not sparing flights from the United States to Cuba. Terrorism continued globally and reached the United States. Terroristic activities were reported in some parts of the country however treated domestically. In 2001, Al Qaeda attacked the United States territory for the first time not only destroying the famous world trade center but had caused overwhelming effects on the people. With this provocation and problems of terrorism, the United States launched an all-out war against terrorism and they should rule the world against terrorism having the following reasons; the United States is the strongest country, it has a good relationship with other countries, and it has done so much to help other countries. The United States is the strongest country. Although the country is affected by the global crisis, the United States remains to be the world’s largest national economy with a GDP of nea rly 14.7 million ( Wikipedia,1). Having a strong economy had widened their influence to other countries. Along with this line, if the United States wants to solicit cooperation from other countries to fight terrorism, more countries would positively participate to support such action. Terrorism cannot be effectively managed by one country alone. Thus, the collaboration of many countries is needed. Having a strong economy also means having a strong military. The United States has been observed to have such a strong military because of efficient and enough training provided them. If the military has a stronghold, they can be able to defend the country for possible violent attacks as they are prepared. Combating terrorism entails preparedness plan to be effective (DO, 1). The United States has a good relationship with other countries be it in the Pacific, the Americas, East Asia, the Caribbean or in Europe.

Violence In American Popular Culture Research Paper - 1

Violence In American Popular Culture - Research Paper Example Like many federal acts, PREA (Prison Rape Elimination Act) is more incumbent upon the shareholders to enforce than it is for government watch groups to enforce. In this way, the ultimate responsibility falls upon the leadership of the individual prison as a means of ensuring the prison rape is reported, minimized, and sought to be eliminated. As a function of performing this study, the authors noted that one of the shortcomings that prior research had failed to address was the role that prison wardens played in the reduction of incidence of prison rape; as such the need for the study itself to be undertaken was necessitated (Moster et al 67)). Unfortunately, the study found that there was little difference between the incidence and reporting levels of prison rape both pre and post PREA. This lack of change with regards to the level of prison rape that was measured and reported upon was surmised by the researchers to be fundamentally linked to the funding levels that prisons received. As a function of the limited sources of funding, prisons and prison wardens by extension have traditionally sought out other more important issues to be tackled. However, the issue of prison rape, as the authors argue, is perhaps the most important issue besides rehabilitation that any given prison or prison system can or should deal with. Due to the fact that prison rape is not only psychologically traumatic but the fact that it spreads diseases such as hepatitis, HIV, and a litany of others, the health and institution integrity of the system as a whole is put in jeopardy by such an oversight (Moster et al 69) With regards to the key information that has been studied thus far this semester with relation to the above topic, it is the belief of this author that the relationship that the ultimate shareholder, the prison warden, bears with relation to this issue is the one that most closely

Management Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words - 1

Management - Assignment Example The success of business in the 21st century depends on the ability of the organization to integrate technology in the business operation. In the advent of information technology, organizations have endeavored to inject business efficiency by using technology to run their data analysis and management and computer systems to enhance business management. The web, internet and computer technology helps the organization to streamline their business functions and to develop strategies for management decision making. Microsoft and Procter & Gamble are among the organizations that have embraced the use of technology within their business operations. A close evaluation of the two companies will help reveal the value of technology within the business environment. Information and its management is an important factor in the business environment. All the management decisions are driven by the data that the management team collects during the previous fiscal years. The managers analyze data and interpret to know their business performance and determine their next course of action. As Wolfgang (3) points out, the efficiency of the management in the data-analysis stage determines the nature of the direction that they opt to follow in their future business. Technology has provided new ways of analyzing information, hence providing the managers with a new approach to business decision making. In Procter and Gamble, the management shifted their focus on data analysis systems to shape their business using effective decision-making tools.

Domestic violence Case Study Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Domestic violence - Case Study Example Common assault has been made an "arrestable offence1", in the sense that the police can arrest a suspect at the scene of the assault without possessing a warrant. This is in variance to the previous practice where the police had to leave the suspected assailant with his victim. Common assault is now an alternative verdict in the Crown Court. There are a range of criminal offences, including sexual and physical assault, harassment and criminal damage, which can be used in cases of domestic violence. However, most offences2 do not take into account the cumulative pattern of violent behaviour, some of which may not constitute a criminal offence. There remains a significant problem with consistent implementation however and the judiciary still fails to treat crimes of domestic violence seriously3. The Domestic Violence, Crime and Victims Bill received Royal Assent in November 2004 to become the Domestic Violence Crime and Victims Act 2004. Domestic violence occurs when a family member or a partner or ex-partner attempts to physically or psychologically dominate or harm the other. Domestic violence has many forms, including physical violence, sexual abuse, emotional abuse, intimidation, economic deprivation or threats of violence. Domestic violence includes physical violence, which consists of direct physical violence, ranging from unwanted physical contact to rape and murder; and indirect physical violence, including destruction of objects; throwing objects near the victim. It also, consists of mental or emotional violence; verbal violence, including threats, insults, put-downs, attacks, and nonverbal threats, including gestures, facial expressions, body postures, economic and social abuse, controlling victim's money and other economic resources. Moreover, it could also comprise of preventing the victim from seeing friends and relatives, actively sabotaging victim's social relationships and isolating victim from social contacts, spiritual abuse. Colleen is married to Wayne, a violent and abusive man. After the birth of their baby, Sven, Wayne put a lot of pressure on Colleen to lose weight, which she did. However, she became anorexic due to this. In this case, the husband Wayne is characterised as a violent in nature and abusive man. Subsequent, to the birth of Sven, Wayne pressurized Colleen to lose weight for which she had to follow the diet restrictions etc, and because of these, she became anorexic. A pattern of behaviour characterised by the misuse of power and control by one person over another who are or have been in an intimate relationship is termed as domestic violence. It can occur in mixed gender relationships and same gender relationships and has profound consequences for the lives of children, individuals, families and communities. It may be physical, sexual, emotional or psychological. The latter may include intimidation and harassment. Thus, the attitude of Wayne comes under controlling behaviour, which prevents someone by force from acting freely. This can include keeping them from seeing relatives and friends and so on. The Domestic Violence, Crime and Victims Act 2004 introduced

MAP Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

MAP - Essay Example In order to better the performance of students who are perhaps still in grade 2 or grade 5, various modern assessments kits have been developed to help students, parents and teachers monitor the progress of the children so that the final objectives of learning are realized through a computerized adaptive test device. Various methods of assessments which have been formulated recently to facilitate learning include MAP test method which is an acronym of the term Measure of Academic Progress. MAP was introduced to students around 2005 in order to help teachers, children and school administrators find the best methods possible to help improve learning and the performance of students. MAP works under the principle that the more grades or marks a student scores, the more the difficult his or her tests are likely to be in future. The computer which is used for the assessment and storage of results of students is thus programmed in a way that it stores all the information of students includi ng their progress in the continuous assessment tests done (DeLong 60). The Measure of Academic Progress depends on various tests administered to students during specified sessions, most preferably during the first few weeks in school. The MAP sessions cover various areas studied in schools and the probability of each student answering questions correctly determines how difficult the progressive questions will be. That is to say, when a child answers questions correctly in one test it means that the next test has to be difficult. That is when it would be possible to determine the academic progress of the child. Likewise, children who have difficulties answering questions are always given simpler questions in the next tests in order to determine if they grasped the content which was taught earlier on. This method is an effective tool for assessing students’ capabilities because of the fact that it focuses on a student’s strengths and weaknesses rather than a whole class. It therefore helps teachers in knowing the ability of each student since each student has the opportunity to do unique tests. Measure of Academic Progress of students is also important because the progressive test helps determine the intelligent quotient of children. Through this, teachers are able to identify children who are gifted and talented. It is equally vital to students because they are able to gauge their potential (Frederiksen, Mislevy and Bejar 382). Theoretically, it is right for curricular designers to employ this technology in assessing the progress of children in schools since it cannot be assumed that every child is intellectually prepared to move to the next grade. However, the MAP method has limitations. For example, it can demoralize students who might feel looked down upon given the fact that the more a student fails in an assessment test the simpler the subsequent tests become. Some students therefore are bound to take the whole test as a specimen for ridiculi ng them because they are tested on simpler things as compared to children who are brighter and are given more difficult work (Skipi 74). On the contrary, even though the application of the MAP in schools set up has bottlenecks, it is not just important to center on the limitations without considering its advantages as a primary tool for doing assessment.. Its function

Management Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words - 1

Management - Assignment Example The success of business in the 21st century depends on the ability of the organization to integrate technology in the business operation. In the advent of information technology, organizations have endeavored to inject business efficiency by using technology to run their data analysis and management and computer systems to enhance business management. The web, internet and computer technology helps the organization to streamline their business functions and to develop strategies for management decision making. Microsoft and Procter & Gamble are among the organizations that have embraced the use of technology within their business operations. A close evaluation of the two companies will help reveal the value of technology within the business environment. Information and its management is an important factor in the business environment. All the management decisions are driven by the data that the management team collects during the previous fiscal years. The managers analyze data and interpret to know their business performance and determine their next course of action. As Wolfgang (3) points out, the efficiency of the management in the data-analysis stage determines the nature of the direction that they opt to follow in their future business. Technology has provided new ways of analyzing information, hence providing the managers with a new approach to business decision making. In Procter and Gamble, the management shifted their focus on data analysis systems to shape their business using effective decision-making tools.

MAP Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

MAP - Essay Example In order to better the performance of students who are perhaps still in grade 2 or grade 5, various modern assessments kits have been developed to help students, parents and teachers monitor the progress of the children so that the final objectives of learning are realized through a computerized adaptive test device. Various methods of assessments which have been formulated recently to facilitate learning include MAP test method which is an acronym of the term Measure of Academic Progress. MAP was introduced to students around 2005 in order to help teachers, children and school administrators find the best methods possible to help improve learning and the performance of students. MAP works under the principle that the more grades or marks a student scores, the more the difficult his or her tests are likely to be in future. The computer which is used for the assessment and storage of results of students is thus programmed in a way that it stores all the information of students includi ng their progress in the continuous assessment tests done (DeLong 60). The Measure of Academic Progress depends on various tests administered to students during specified sessions, most preferably during the first few weeks in school. The MAP sessions cover various areas studied in schools and the probability of each student answering questions correctly determines how difficult the progressive questions will be. That is to say, when a child answers questions correctly in one test it means that the next test has to be difficult. That is when it would be possible to determine the academic progress of the child. Likewise, children who have difficulties answering questions are always given simpler questions in the next tests in order to determine if they grasped the content which was taught earlier on. This method is an effective tool for assessing students’ capabilities because of the fact that it focuses on a student’s strengths and weaknesses rather than a whole class. It therefore helps teachers in knowing the ability of each student since each student has the opportunity to do unique tests. Measure of Academic Progress of students is also important because the progressive test helps determine the intelligent quotient of children. Through this, teachers are able to identify children who are gifted and talented. It is equally vital to students because they are able to gauge their potential (Frederiksen, Mislevy and Bejar 382). Theoretically, it is right for curricular designers to employ this technology in assessing the progress of children in schools since it cannot be assumed that every child is intellectually prepared to move to the next grade. However, the MAP method has limitations. For example, it can demoralize students who might feel looked down upon given the fact that the more a student fails in an assessment test the simpler the subsequent tests become. Some students therefore are bound to take the whole test as a specimen for ridiculi ng them because they are tested on simpler things as compared to children who are brighter and are given more difficult work (Skipi 74). On the contrary, even though the application of the MAP in schools set up has bottlenecks, it is not just important to center on the limitations without considering its advantages as a primary tool for doing assessment.. Its function

Naples - Pizza Essay Example for Free

Naples Pizza Essay In today’s modern era, restaurants environments including small and midsized ones have come to rely on a modern management system. Certainly, there is plenty of big restaurant business that uses modern table management system, for some small businesses like cafe shop/cafeteria, or small dining restaurants, purchase of an electronic system might be considered as an uneconomical use of financial resources. However, the recent development of powerful computer programs capable of addressing a wide variety of record keeping needs, including a table management in one integrated system, has contributed to the growing popularity of electronic system control options. One type of business in which management records are essential is the pizza business. This type of business heavily relies on giving good accommodations for their customers to attract good vibes and have good sales every day. Online table records system are designed to minimize the work of employee by having a automated table serving for the customers so that they can focus on other things they need to do. Pizza is an oven-baked, flat, round bread typically topped with a tomato sauce, cheese and various toppings. Pizza was originally invented in Naples, Italy, and the dish has since become popular in many parts of the world. An establishment that makes and sells pizzas is called a pizzeria. Many varieties of pizza exist worldwide, along with several dish variants based upon pizza. This program simulates the taking of orders at a pizza takeaway restaurant. It can be used as a template for any retail type business. The order form finds customers by phone number. You enter a phone number and click ‘Find Customer’. If the customer is in the database, their information appears and ordering begins. If the customer is not found, you enter customer information and click Save. To order a pizza, choose from the listed options and click ‘Build Pizza’. Add as many pizzas to the order as you desire, then click ‘Order Complete’. A printed receipt is then available. The example database, PIZZADB. DBMS, has a few customers – open in Access to find the phone numbers. This database must remain located in the project folder.

Causes of Prion Diseases

Causes of Prion Diseases Prion diseases or transmissible spongiform encephalopathys can be inheritable or transmissible, a common feature of the prion disease involves the change of the prion protein (PrPc) to the isoform PrPsc (Hu et al, 2007). Prion propagation involves a mechanism that changes PrPc to PrPsc in an autocatalytic way (Harris and True, 2006). PrPc is said to be the normal prion protein and PrPsc the scrapie isoform which is the mutagenic Prion protein said to be the un-normal form. Prion diseases can occur in both humans and animals, an though in humans they are particularly rare (Hur et al, 2002). They are known to be fatal neurodegenerative diseases (Hur et al, 2002). Hur et al (2002) said that the reason that there has become an increased interest in Prion diseases in science and health is because they are biologically different in their features compared with other known neurodegenerative diseases and that there are many gaps in the knowledge of prion diseases, for example the pathogenesi s, what causes the mutagenic prion protein and where prion diseases first arose from . The PrPsc isoform which is known to be the most common feature of the prion disease is dominated by a beta sheet containing strong hydrogen bonds and this structure is twisted, many researchers have found that the strong hydrogen bonds make this isoform resistant to digestion protein kinase k meaning that this protein can build up particularly in the brain tissue causing neuronal damage and therefore possibly leading to prion diseases. (Harris and true, 2006). Hu et al (2007) said that because the PrPsc isoform is protein kinase k resistant it isnt broken down and therefore increasingly accumulates in the brain tissue of patients with prion diseases and causes further neurodegeneration. Neurodegenerative diseases commence from the build up and the wrong conformational folding of a protein, the biological activity of a protein depends on its correct folding in the native conformation (Soto et al, 2002). Strong evidence has been shown that protein misfolding plays a major role in transmissible spongiform encephalopathy pathogenesis (Soto et al, 2002). There are many different types of prion diseases that have been found in both humans and animals one example includes Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease and another example is Kuru (Hu et al, 2007). Examples of prion diseases concerned with animals include scrapie. Bovine spongiform encephalopathy is also an animal prion disease which is also referred to as mad cow disease (Hu et al, 2002). Different forms of prion diseases both human and animal forms are associated with different forms of PrPsc (Soto et al, 2002). Many mutations in the PrPsc protein in prion disease have been found and linked to the different forms of Prion disease. The polymorphism at codon 129 has been found to play a major role in the phenotypic expression of Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease which is the most frequent type of Prion disease (Mikol, 1999). Mutations and insertions have been found to be involved in another from of human prion disease known as familial Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease (Mikol 1999). A common mutation at cod on 178 had been found in the first case. Kuru is an acquired from of the prion disease, this can be characterised by kuru plaques which have been found in seventy percent of cases (Mikol, 1999). There has become recent interest in the kuru disease because of an increased resistance to this diseases. Kuru has the characteristic of quickly degenerating the central nervous system and it is fatal (Goldfarb, 2002). There was an outbreak of kuru which killed many people in new guinea most of these people were from a small area populated by a culture known as fore people (Goldfarb, 2002). It is not widely known how Prion diseases first developed in humans and animals but it is thought that kuru became transmitted to humans via cannibalism (Goldfarb, 2002). It was pursued in this culture to eat relatives who had died , therefore resulting in human to human transmission (Mead et al, 2009). By the late 1950s there was a stop to cannibalism and correlating with this the umber of people dying w ith kuru decreased also no person after the `1950,s had developed Kuru (Goldfarb, 2002). However how kuru first appeared in the fore people is still unclear, but a conclusion has been made that the kuru epidemic must have started with a single person who died from Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease and then was eaten by traditional cannibalism . Many studies have aimed to find the mutations involved in Kuru. The methionine/valine variation encoded by the 129 codon in the PRNP gene has been recorded in many Kuru patients, a recent study has shown that the 129 genotype is associated with an increased vunerability to Kuru (Goldfarb, 2002). Goldfarb 2002 found that in the fore culture the 129 genotype methionine/methionine was the most common in patients suffering from Kuru at an early age and that a change to methionine/valine showed that Kuru developed at a later age. Methionine/valine, valine/valine carriers survived the Kuru epidemic, codon 129 heterogeneity is thought to therefore be a resi stance factor for Kuru disease (Mead et al, 2009). Mead et al also studied another polymorphism which was thought to be linked to kuru, the G127V polymorphism. They concluded that this G127V gene is an agent gained that provides resistance to Kuru in a heterogeneous state and isnt a mutation which could have caused the Kuru epidemic (Mead et al, 2009). Many hypothesise have been developed in order to try and explain prion diseases, however none have been fully accepted. The most common hypothesis is the Prion hypothesis which suggests that the agent causing neurodegeneration is the prion protein but the mutagenic form which escapes protein kinas k digestion and remains in brain tissue causing neuronal damage (Yull et al, 2008).The Prion hypothesis states that the infectious agent of prion diseases is an abnormally folded isoform of the prion protein (PrPsc) that replicates its abnormal conformation (Baskakov and Breydo, 2006). Strong evidence has been shown that protein misfolding has a major role in transmissible spongiform encephalopathy pathogenesis (Soto et al, 2002). A number of hypotheses have been made in order to try and explain the pathogenesis of prion diseases, they all correlate to the prion protein hypothesis indicating that the mutated prion protein PrPsc is involved in the pathogenesis. One hypothesis links the pathogenesis to oxidative stress and suggests that PrPc is involved in making sure that cells dont become damaged by oxidative stress (Westergard, 2007). The change in the function of PrPc for example by a mutation/ misfolding may therefore be linked to the role in disease (Westergard, 2007). Oxidants are produced as the result of another action in respiration usually via abnormal anaerobic respiration in many people with neurodegenerative diseases (Hur et al, 2002). Levels of MDA can indicate oxidative stress, this is a reactive aldehyde which causes toxic stress in cells and as a result generates the production of free radicals, levels, levels of MDA have been found a higher levels in scrapie infected mice showing an involvement of oxidative stress (Hur et al, 2002).. It has therefore been suggested that the normal prion protein PrPc protects cells from oxidative stress and therefore an abnormal form of this protein will allow oxidative stress and therefore cause damage to neurones and therefore leading to prion diseases (Westergard, 2007). Evidence has also been found that the PrPc protein has SOD (Superoxide dimutase) activity and that the PrPc uses detoxification to remove any reactive oxygen species that could cause oxidative damage in cells, however other studies have found evidence against this therefore further work needs to be done to confirm this. One way that the PrPc protein has been found to stop oxidative damage is indirectly by increasing the cell components such as proteins, for example a combination of copper-zinc SOD that can remove and damage and circulating reactive oxidative species, therefore a mutated from of the prion protein would ail to do this meaning that oxidative species remain in brain tissue causing neuronal damage (Westergard et al, 2007). However Westergard et al (2007) said that these results had failed to become repetitive in other scientific research. Copper may also be involved in the pathogenesis of prion diseases. Copper is a substance necessary to the function of many enzymes (Westergard et al, 2007). Abnormal metabolisms in the body have been linked with many neurodegenerative diseases, it is thought that copper ions can change the properties of the normal prion protein (Westergard, 2007). Hur et al (2002) have reported that iron is involved in neurodegenerative diseases, scientists have shown that the amount of fe3+ is much higher in the brains of scrapie infected people, fe3+ is needed for free radical formation , concluding that there is a link to oxidative stress and neuronal damage therefore contributing to prion diseases (Hur et al, 2002). A role of the immune system in the propagation of prion diseases ahs been studied and suggests that inflammatory processors for example cytokines play a part in causing neuronal damage in prion diseases (Hur et al, 2002). The role of PrPc and the immune system still remains unknown(Hur et al, 2002). Although many hypotheses have been suggested many are still unclear. Other models for example the cells death model which links necrosis and apoptosis to the formation of a prion disease are still unclear further research needs to be done to support this model. To conclude many scientists have found that the PrPsc protein is the main cause of neuronal damage in patients. Mutations have been researched to find out the mutations linked to the disease. It is unclear of the pathogenesis of prion diseases as many hypotheses have been suggested. How prion diseases first arose is still unclear and how they are transmitted is still undergoing scientific research. References Baskakov I.V, Breydo L, 2007, Converting the prion protein: what makes the protein infectious. Cohen.F.E, 1999, Protein Misfolding and prion disease, Academic press. Goldfarb.L.G, 2002, Kuru; the old epidemic in a new mirror, Elsevier. Harris.D.A, True.H.L, 2006, New insights into prion structure and toxicity, Elsevier inc. Hur.K, Kim.J, Choir.S, Choir.E.K, Carp.R, Kim.Y.S, 2002, The pathogenic mechanisms of prion disease, Elsevier science. Hu.W, Kieseir.B, Frohman.E, Eagar.T.N, Rodger.N.R, Hartung.H.P, Stuve, 2007, Prion proteins: Physiological functions and role in neurological disorders, journal of neurological sciences. Mead.S, Whitfield.M.A, Poulter.M, Shah.P, Uphill J, Campbell, Al-Dujaily, Hummerich.H, Beck.J, Mein.C.A, Verzilli.C, Whittaker.J, Alpers.M.P, Collinge.J, 2009, A Novel Protective Prion Protein Variant that Colocalizes with Kuru Exposure, Massachusetts Medical Society. Mikol.J., 1999, Neuropathology of prion diseases, Elsevier science. Soto.C, Sabotio.G.P, Anderes.L, 2002, Cyclic amplification of protein misfolding: application to prion related disorders and beyond, Elsevier science. Westergard.L, Christensen H.M, Harris D.A, 2007, The cellular prion protein (PrPc):Its physiological function in disease, Elsevier. Yull.H.M, Ironside J.W, Head.M.W, 2009, Further characterisation of the prion protein molecular types detectable in the NIBSC Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease brain reference materials, Elsevier science.

A Cubist Perspective of Shakespeares A Midsummer Nights Dream Essay

A Cubist Perspective of Shakespeare's A Midsummer Night's Dream      Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   "The great cycle of the ages is renewed. Now Justice returns, returns the Golden Age; a new generation now descends from on high." - Virgil, Eclogues 1.5    As Virgil stated so many years ago, history is a cyclical phenomenon. The experiences of one age tend to be repeated in future generations. Knowing that, we should not be surprised to find the seeds of modern styles and philosophies sprouting in earlier ages.    Elizabethan England was a society undergoing major social changes. In religion the country had recently left the fold of Catholicism to establish the Church of England. While England during this time was a major world power, she also enjoyed a level of security thanks to her easily defended boundaries as an island nation with a powerful navy. The sense of power and security allowed for the growth of a prosperous middle class. Within this milieu of power combined with internal security and economic growth the seeds of change were nurtured#. Intellectual and artistic freedom and growth were fostered in this environment, Elizabethan England provided an envisronment that allowed men like William Shakespeare to find a voice that reached not only his own generation but continues to speak to the modern world.    If we look at the world at the beginning of the 20th century we can find many parallels with Elizabethan England. In both ages Europe was experiencing a great social and political realignment. The growing nationalism that was the precursor to World War I and the Russian Revolution was accompanied by a new sense of self and a new set of allegiances. For artists like Pablo Picasso and Juan Gris these ... ...."   William Shakespeare Comedies & Romances. Ed. Harold Bloom. New York: Chelsea House Publishers, 1986.    Schanzer, Ernest.   "_A Midsummer-Night's Dream."   26-31 in Kenneth Muir, ed. Shakespeare: The Comedies: A Collection of Critical Essays.   Englewood Cliffs: Prentice-Hall, 1965.    Shakespeare, William. A Midsummer Night's Dream, ed. Brian Gibbons. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, 1991.    Vaughn, Jack A. Shakespeare's Comedies.   New York: Frederick Ungar Publishing Company, 1980    Watts, Cedric. A Midsummer Night's Dream. London: Penguin, 1986.    Wells, Stanley & Gary Taylor, General Eds.   _William Shakespeare: The _Complete Works.   New York: Oxford University Press, 1986. Young, David P.   Something of Great Constancy: The Art of A Midsummer Night's Dream.   New Haven: Yale University Press, 1966.      

Computers in Film :: Computer Generated Images Animation CGI Cinema

Computer animation is the art of creating moving images via the use of the computers. It is a subfield of computer graphics and animations (Computer Animation). It is created through the use of 2D and 3D computer graphics. This technique is becoming increasingly popular in the world of the film industry. Several animated features are now being created by the use of computers. Special effects are being created by computers as well. Movie companies that are becoming famous for using computers are Pixar, Dream Works, Paramount Pictures, 20th Century Fox, Square Pictures and Walt Disney. Dream Works developed the computer animated movies, â€Å"Antz†, â€Å"Shark Tale† and â€Å"Shrek† (1 and 2). Paramount Pictures created, â€Å"Jimmy Neutron: Boy Genius†, Square Pictures created, â€Å"Final Fantasy: The Spirits Within†, and Walt Disney created the recent animated feature, â€Å"Dinosaur.† The most inventive and successful company is by far Pixar with their creation of â€Å"A Bug’s Life†, â€Å"Finding Nemo†, â€Å"Monster’s Inc.† and â€Å"The Incredibles.†(List of Computer-animated films) In computer animation an illusion of movement is created by an image being displayed on the computer screen which is then quickly replaced by another image that is very similar but shifted slightly. One may wonder, how do these movies create images to look like smooth moving figures? The pictures must be drawn as 24 frames per second or faster. Some movies these days are putting 70 frames a second which makes it impossible for the eye or brain to process to notice the break between objects. Computer animation requires high frame rates to reinforce the realism of the picture. There is no jerkiness seen as the higher speeds due to â€Å"persistence of vision† (Computer Animation). Humans’ eyes and brains help out with computer animation, they automatically smooth out minor breaks because they store a picture for a fraction of a second and it creates the illusion of continuous movement. After an image is sent to the screen to a back buffer, a computer can draw the image and make any changes needed before it is complete. Once the image is correct the computer tells the screen to draw from the back buffer either by copying the image from the back buffer to the primary buffer or making the back buffer the new primary buffer.

General Ethical Perspectives Essay

Leadership is usually effective when leaders are motivated. Self drive is important to attain good leadership. Motivation for leaders is usually cultivated by the getting concerned with others. Leadership is further built by the development of ethical prospects such that there is a clear guideline on what leaders are required to do and what they can omit. Leadership personalities differ from person to person and high moral standards are required for effective leadership. Nevertheless whatever is moral in some communities may be immoral in another culture. For a leaders to fit in different cultures they must be culturally diversified in their leadership techniques. Ethical leadership is developed depending on an organizational culture. Different cultures are developed differently for different organizations. There are institutions that promote then culture of morality while others may develop a culture of corruption. There are no definite universal codes of ethics designed for particular organizations or associations. However, there are well developed general ethical leadership theories used for the purpose of encouraging unique leadership techniques and moral stability for leaders. This essay discuses general ethical theories or approaches used on the selection of moral choices. A variety of general ethical perspectives such utilitarianism, Kant’s Categorical Imperative, Justice as Fairness, Communitarianism, Altruism, Ethical Pluralism are discussed. Utilitarian ethical perspective is a theory based on motive of promoting the well being of the majority of people within a community. According to utilitarianism theory, ethical choices are depended on their repercussion. In this case, most leaders explore possible outcomes to their deeds when they make decisions. Utilitarianism advocates for decisions whose profits outweigh its demerits. These benefits are expected to meet more needs for the majority. In other words, utilitarianism seeks to extend greater good to most people. Many leaders approach situations from a perspective of utilitarian approach in making critical leadership decisions. In some situations one evil may seem a solution and a source of satisfaction of majority of the community. For instance, lying may protect someone’s dignity. Although the lie may protect one leader’s dignity, lies are considered unethical and destructive than constructive. A good example of such leadership is the case of president Truman of U. S, who decided to end the war in pacific by dropping atomic bombs in Hiroshima and Nagasaki. This was an ethical decision towards the safety and security of Americans. However, it was at the expense of thousand of lives of Japanese. The war stopped, but the world wondered why the president thought that atomic bombs were the only solution to ending the war. Another outcome was a consistent exploration of atomic bombs and on ground nuclear power test which resulted in numerous cancer cases on humanity. This is because the public was not aware of the effect on nuclear radiations effect and the leaders did not enlighten them in safety measures. This ethical decision was reached at when the president of America found it more beneficial to safeguard the lives of American than it would cost him in dropping the bombs. He pleased his people by securing them from the war. In contrast, Kant’s categorical imperative philosophy advocates that we must do the right thing regardless of its underlying costs and benefits. Leaders are encouraged to follow the rules of morality; that we may not need to tell a lie or kill one person for the sake of saving many. Kant uses deontological ethics in which he applies moral reasoning. For instance, he says that if we want to make choices in an important issue it is important to reason first and validate our decision. We should be able to take a decision only if the rest of our society would also pick on the same. In other words, if one is guilty, then they are taking the wrong decision. According to Kant, it is always right to tell the truth no matter the cost but cheating is always wrong. Several wrong can not make a right just as several lies will never make a truth. Although most leaders use the led as a means to an end, they should learn that humans ought to be treated as the end itself. It is undisputable that humans can be used for the success of others, but they should be respected and supported moral in capacity building. The society need to be encouraged and empowered in decision making as well as being protected against harm. In this context it is not right for production firms to pollute the environment without the necessary public safety awareness and protection. According to this philosophy one should be ready to help the needy, since the failure to help them is incapacitating them. They need to be encouraged to work and persist in doing right against wrong. Justice as fairness is philosophy that encourages equality of opportunities and rights to all, which works against ignorance. John Rawls researched on justice as fairness and documented some of his articles. In his research, he realized that utilitarian principles would not be applicable in society. According to him, when the largest benefit to the society is delivered there would be some marginalized groups within the members of the society. Some individuals may never be advantaged at any one point. He therefore encouraged the formation of corporations within the society which would comprise of free, democratic and equal citizen. He believed that this category of people would always strive to alleviate any inequalities among them. They would always try to promote their limited and varied talents and capabilities. For instance, he pointed out that if a national leadership decides to withdraw corporate taxes, the beneficiary is the firm owner and not the free citizens. In the light of utilitarian principles, generally national economy would grow but citizens must cover for the lost corporate taxes thus thy end up being disadvantaged. Rawls advocates for equality of rights to access basic liberties thus emphasizing similarity of liberties across the society. He further insists that economic and social inequality should be aimed at the satisfaction of conditions of fairness in equality of opportunity availability to all and development of great advantages to the less privileged in the society. According to him, discrimination of whatever kind; gender or race, poor, immigrants, disabled or marginalized, need to be alleviated. It is clear that inequality exists naturally, but leadership needs to focus on the elimination of the differences. The disadvantaged must be uplifted, empowered and directed towards personal development which has an overall effect of their well being and overall development of the national economy at large. Equality must be sought in opportunity availability, liberty provision, and care for the disadvantaged. Communitarianism is a philosophy of the 20th century in which individualism was shunned, and communal activity and ownership embraced. These involve the redefinition of individual rights, citizenship relationship with civil responsibility and improvement of public security, safety and health. Redefinition of legal right to the traffic rules and regulation ensure safety for more road users in within the communitarian society. Civic rights communitarians’ society means taking part in civic responsibility like serving the jury. Communitarianism involves the promotion of community health through the provision of necessary team cooperation, participation, community maintenance, affirmation, and diversification of amenities to serve that community. Collaborative leadership is encouraged in the communitarian. This encourages problem solving based on the collaborative leadership representation in which leaders from diverse categories take part in the solution of civic problems. Altruistic leadership approach emphasizes on leadership principle promoting high moral values some of which are developed from Christianity and Judaism. This kind of leadership acknowledges hospitality, generosity, empathy, concern for others as well as compassion, in with leadership should promote love for God and for humanity. This kind of leadership is the driving force in many social organizations. Volunteer work, good turn and spirit of giving to the poor and less privileged is advocated for. Through altruism, leaders are bound to experience more risks on behalf of the led. Ethical pluralism is whereby all several ethical theories of leadership are merged and practiced concurrently. The mixture of the five approaches of ethics is very important in the solution of particular ethical problems and making decisions that would otherwise not be made by use of a single approach. In general leadership is developed by a combination of various leadership principles and personalities. Different Ethical leadership perspectives are used by different leaders to lead the society. Deferent leadership decisions are based on different ethical perspectives. Reference Johnson, C. E. (2004). Meeting The Ethical Challenges of Leadership: Casting Light Or Shadow. 3rd Edition. California: Sage publications.

Peter Tosh: a Pioneer of Reggae and Trailblazing Rastafarian

Peter Tosh: A Pioneer of Reggae and Trailblazing Rastafarian Peter Tosh was not only an incredible Reggae musician, but an incredible person as well. He had a history of doing his part to help those in need of help, fighting for those who were unable to fight for themselves. Tosh, a pioneer of the Rastafari movement, would lead the people of Jamaica through his selfless actions and his music. Peter Tosh, born Winston Hubert McIntosh, was born in Westmoreland, Jamaica on October 9, 1944 to parents, Alvera Coke and James McIntosh. Tosh’s father would have nothing to do with his upbringing or even acknowledge that Tosh was his son.In fact, they would not even meet until Tosh was ten years old. His mother, unable to care for Tosh herself, asked her sister to raise him, which she did in Savanna-la-Mar, Jamaica. Due to the feeling of rejection that this placed inside of him, Tosh grew up extremely self-reliant and independent, which would help him later on in his fight for his peopl e. During the time of his upbringing, life in Jamaica was extremely difficult. Jobs were scarce and money even more so. The majority of families were struggling to make ends meet, scrounging for money and building supply scraps to keep roofs over their heads.Jamaica’s government was extremely corrupt and the wealthier, land-owning class was taking advantage of those less fortunate. Tosh recognized this and would later become a modern day Robin Hood, using his presence in the public eye to his advantage by speaking on behalf of his fellow Jamaicans to raise awareness on the issue. Tosh began playing music at a very young age, keeping him away from gang life. He had no formal training of any instrument, aside from six months of piano lessons when he was in fifth grade. Music was his passion and he excelled in it.Tosh moved to Trenchtown with his uncle after his aunt grew very ill and nearly died. It was here that Tosh would develop his musical talents and go on to form the most influential band in reggae history. Trenchtown, named because of the many trenches that ran through it carrying sewage waste away from Kingston, was filled with music. While walking through town one day, Tosh came across a guitarist by the name of Joe Higgs, among others, singing and playing in the street. During the jam session, he met a couple who were looking for other vocalists to join a group. The couple was impressed by Tosh’s guitar playing and his baritone voice. Johnson) The couple, Bob Marley and Bunny Livingston, and Tosh, who taught Bob Marley how to play guitar, would hold jam sessions in Higgs’ backyard. These sessions became more and more serious and would eventually lead to the forming of the influential ska-style band called the Wailing Wailers in 1964. The Wailers went on to record twelve albums including One Love, When the Well Runs Dry, and Simmer Down and released groundbreaking singles including ‘Stir it Up’, ‘Get Up, Stand Upà ¢â‚¬â„¢, and ‘Trenchtown Rock’. (http://reggaediscography. blogspot. com/2009/10/peter-tosh-discography. html) By 1966, the band began to fall apart.Marley had moved from Jamaica to the United States to pursue a solo career and Tosh was arrested and served a short stint in jail. By 1972, the Wailers would slowly diminish until they finally broke up. It would be absurd to speak of Peter Tosh and not mention the Rastafari movement, which he had begun to get heavily involved in by this time. The movement was founded in the slums of Kingston, Jamaica in the 1920’s and 1930’s by a man by the name of Marcus Garvey. (www. religionfacts. com) Garvey taught that Africans are the true Israelis and that Ethiopia, referred to as Zion, is the real holy land.He further proclaimed that Africans were exiled to Jamaica and other parts of the world outside of Africa (the America’s and Europe are referred to as Babylon) as a form of divine punishment. (ww. religionfac ts. com) In the 1930’s, peaceful communities had begun popping up in Kingston and Rastafarians began to adopt their own culture to include a distinctive dialect and hair style, and developed their own style of art and music. It was their music that would help spread the ideology of the Rastafari movement across the globe. The music of Bob Marley and Peter Tosh would become messengers of Jah (God) spreading the word throughout the world.After the Wailers went their separate ways, Tosh focused on a solo career. His first album, Legalize It, went public in 1976. The name of the album, as well as the title track, refers to his stance on the legalization of marijuana. Tosh believed that smoking marijuana was a path to enlightenment. It was a way for the working class of Jamaica to get relief from the stresses of life. He further believed that the government made marijuana illegal as a way of oppressing Jamaicans and keeping them in order. Tosh only wrote songs after he had smoked marijuana because he felt he could see clearly. (www. thetalkingdrum. com)By the time of the One Love Peace Concert of 1978, Jamaica was in the midst of a political civil war. The concert was held in an effort to set aside the differences of Jamaicans and promote peace, love, and harmony. Tosh took this concert, at which Bob Marley and the Wailers were headlining, as an opportunity to speak to the audience. Tosh bluntly put the government down, accusing them of using Jamaica and the people that lived there for their resources with little regard as to what would happen to them. He spoke his mind, as always, without caring who would hear. He spoke for the rights of his brothers and sisters of Jamaica.That concert was the first time that a person held in such high regards amongst the public had spoken out against the Jamaican government. It was at this moment that Peter Tosh became a heroic figure and a public rights leader. The high regard in which he was held by his peers would turn out to be a blessing and a curse. Four months after the One Love Peace Concert and his lecture against the Jamaican government, Tosh was brutally attacked by up to ten police officers and nearly died. This was the first of many attacks, both verbal and physical, but this is where Tosh wanted to be.He wanted to be the center of attention, not for his own ego but to be in a position to speak on behalf of his people. It was a way for him to voice their concerns and demand corrective action. The One Love Peace Concert not only boosted Tosh in the political eye, but would end up boosting his American musical career as well. Mick Jagger, of the Rolling Stones, was in the audience at the concert and would go on to sign Tosh under the Rolling Stones’ record label. Tosh would go on to release two albums under the label, Bush Doctor and Mystic Man. The short life of this relationship ended when Tosh felt he was not being promoted properly. www. talkingdrum. com) Two years after releasi ng Wanted Dread or Alive, Tosh had hit the pinnacle of his career in 1983, which was the time of his European tour promoting Mama Africa. These two albums would go on to become known as Tosh’s best work. (www. talkingdrum. com) While on this tour, Tosh appeared on stage with his signature M-16 [military assault rifle] guitar. The guitar was significant in the fact that it was a symbol for Tosh’s music being his weapon against the corrupt politicians and evils in the world. (www. talkingdrum. com) His concerts were more than just music. They were spiritually enlightening and informative.It was not uncommon for Tosh to set aside some time during a show to talk to the audience about his views on the evils of the world. Despite the public being supportive of Tosh and his cause, he was murdered by three assailants on September 11, 1987. Record has it that three men, one of whom Tosh knew and tried to help find work after a term in jail, had approached him at his home demand ing money. When Tosh replied that he had none, he was shot three times. The assailant that Tosh knew turned himself in to the authorities, while the other two were never found. The story of the robbery, however, remains under scrutiny.According to reports, nothing from Tosh’s home was missing. The three men who went there to rob him took nothing. Many speculate that it was a hit to forever silence Tosh and his outspoken ways. From the moment he was born, it seems Peter Tosh was destined to live the life he did. He was a man with many admirable qualities, most importantly the courage to speak up for those who were not in a position to do it themselves in effort to better the lives of his fellow Jamaicans. He was a pioneer for the Rastafari movement and a prominent figure in the development of Reggae music, forming it into the shape it holds today.