Enzymes Lab Report 5 Essays - Enzymes, Catalysis, Catechol, PH

BioLab3 Lab Report 5 Enzymes Student Name: I.Enzyme Structure and Function EXERCISE 1 Preparation of an enzyme activity standard At five minute intervals over the next fifteen minute period, record the color intensity of the solution of each test tube. Time (min)Tube S1 Potato Extract + CatecholTube S2 Potato Extract + WaterTube S3 Catechol + Water 0YellowishClear to milkyClear to milky 5YellowishClear to milkyClear to milky 10OrangeClear to milkyClear to milky 15Brownish RedClear to milkyClear to milky How can benzoquinone be detected? If you see a brownish amber color in the solution Which two solutions need to be present to produce the brown-colored benzoquinone? Potato extract and Catechol need to be present. What substance is not present in tube S2 for the production of the brown-colored substance? Catechol What substance is not present in tube S3 for the production of the brown-colored substance? Potato Extract II.Enzyme Specificity EXERCISE 2 Enzyme specificity At five and ten minute intervals, record the color intensity in each test tube. Time (min)Tube 1 with catecholTube 2 with hydroquinone 011 531 1054 Based upon color intensity, to what degree does catechol oxidase react with hydroquinone? 4 What difference in chemical structure of the two substrates determines the specificity of catechol oxidase? Chemical structure of catechol and hydroquinone III.Temperature and Enzyme Activity EXERCISE 3 Enzyme activity and temperature Record the relative color intensity at intervals of five and ten minutes. Time (min)Tube 1 4oCTube 2 23oCTube 3 40oCTube 4 60oCTube 5 80oCTube 6 100oC 0333300 5333400 10345400 Double click the chart below. A spreadsheet will open. Enter the 10 minute read data into the spreadsheet in the areas provided. When you are finished, click into another area of the lab report. The spreadsheet will close automatically. Do not close the spreadsheet with the X in the upper right corner. What is the temperature range for catechol oxidase activity? The temperature range is 20-60 degrees Celsius. Examine your experimental data and determine which temperature is optimum for the formation of benzoquinone? At 40 Degrees Celsius What happens to the enzyme above 60C? Is denatured and cant act as catalyst. IV.Effect of pH on Enzyme Activity EXERCISE 4 Enzyme activity and pH At five minute intervals, record the relative color intensity of each tube. Time (min)Tube 1 pH 2Tube 2 pH 4Tube 3 pH 6Tube 4 pH 7Tube 5 pH 8Tube 6 pH 10Tube 7 pH 12 00011111 50134444 100345444 Double click the chart below. A spreadsheet will open. Enter the 10 minute read data into the spreadsheet in the areas provided. When you are finished, click into another area of the lab report. The spreadsheet will close automatically. Do not close the spreadsheet with the X in the upper right corner. In what pH range will catechol oxidase catalyze catechol to benzoquinone? In the ph Range 6-8 What is the optimum pH for catechol oxidase? 7 V.Cofactors EXERCISE 5 Enzyme activity and cofactors The test tubes are removed from the water bath and their relative color intensities are compared. Record your observations as 0 to 5. Time (min)Tube 1 w/ PTUTube 2 w/out PTU 003 1005 What was the purpose of adding PTU to test tube 1? A cofactor was needed for one of the experiments. Which tube shows benzoquinone formation? Test tube 2 shows benzoquinone Examine the data and determine if copper is necessary for the function of catechol oxidase. No it is not necessary for copper to be present for the function of catechol oxidase Summary Questions 1.What happened to the structure of catechol oxidase at temperatures above 75C? It is denatured, its structure became very distorted and thus the protein couldnt work anymore. 2.How does pH range affect the function and structure of catechol oxidase? When the Ph. is not at its optimum, the differing ph.s will disrupt the bonding between the R group of the amino acids causing Its structure to change. 3.Thermal springs, such as Old Faithful in Yellowstone National Park, have temperatures above 100C. How does adaptation make it possible for living organisms to inhabit such an extreme environment? Adaption allows them to adjust to these high temperatures. 4.The stomach maintains a pH of approximately 3 to 5. Do all enzymes function at this pH level? Give an example from one of the exercises. No, all dont function at this level. Most function between 6-8. 5.Why do patients with high fever feel tired and listless? They lose a lot of energy and there catechol oxidase becomes distorted. 6.Some individuals who have been submerged in cold water for long periods of time have survived. How is this possible? There body make up is usually different than others. There are alsdo non-biology things that can keep the body safer. 7.What is

Is War Nescessary essays

Is War Nescessary essays War, to even think about that makes one shudder with utter fear and disgust. War is a terrible evil under any circumstance. Thinking back to some of the recent wars, such as World War 2, Vietnam, and Yugoslavie and one sits back and envsisons the horrible acts that war causes. One can see the scenes of a battlefield, a field of carnage, after the fight is over, the sights and sounds that meet our eyes in every direction, the horrible mutilations inflicted by landmines or mortar shells, the glazed eyes of the dead, the torn and bleeding, mutilated fragments of human body parts that are strewn about, the piteous wail of the wounded; and when we turn away, shuddering, to shut out this scene from the mind, we may be tempted to ask how humanity can commit such a heinous and evil action at all. War unfortunaltey is one of the humankinds way of dealing with conflicts. The use of force, agression and death to threaten other nations, or ones own nation is the only way humans have ever been able to deal with problems in our society. We have not found any other alternatives to deal with these types of situations. Sometimes war has defiantley been nescesarry. One of those reasons would be to come to the defense of the innocent such as the Jewish Population in World War 2, who were slaughtered in the millions by hitler. War does have some positives. For example a warring nation that is winning will usually bring about an economic upturn if the economy is failing (like coming out of the Great Depression when WWII started) It is when inventors and inventions make great strides in the technologial and scientific fields are made (see the atom bomb, the jet engine, radar, even the computer) So as you can see War takes a huge toll on human tradgedy, but society as a whole usually benefits from wars in the long run. My personal belief is that War is not nescessary. Who knows how many great inventions we have lost, because that person was drafted t...

How readily could terrorists can acquire nuclear weapons Essay

How readily could terrorists can acquire nuclear weapons - Essay Example different nations had the information about nuclear weapon empowerment of different terrorist organizations across the world, why adequate measures have not been taken to prevent such attempts? The reasons is that despite having knowledge about such devastating plans of the terrorists such attempts could not be stopped as terrorists are not some kind of creatures belonging to a particular species group who could be identified through their appearances. They are very much part of the society, of the mass and they are actually utilizing the brighter aspects of human innovations in wrong ways. The general course experimentation of nuclear weapons has showed them the avenues that nuclear weapons are great tools by which a great deal of mass destruction can happen and such attempts would definitely add to the purpose of the terrorists. Nuclear weapon empowerment of terrorists actually started due to the infamous Cold War between two global superpowers, United States of America and Soviet Union. As either of these nations was on the desperate attempt to prove them superior to the other that is why, for the purpose of making their respective economic as well social bonds weak they encouraged terrorism. In the process of such encouragement they actually trained those terrorists, who were actually mercenaries in the hands of both the countries, to use modern weapons properly and taught them about the use and invention of nuclear weapons. Use of such nuclear weapons by the terrorists actually belongs to the category of â€Å"non-conventional weaponry.† (Cameron, 1999, p. 1) Once of the most horrific instances of the recent day use of such â€Å"non-conventional weaponry† can be cited through the attack of Aum Shinrikyo, a terrorist organization in Tokyo. â€Å"On 20th March 1995, members of the Aum Shinrikyo cult released a lethal nerve agent, sarin, on the Tokyo underground. The attack killed 12 people and injured over 5,000 others, and was the first majo r sub-state use of a

Lord of War and New Thought of Crime Movie Review

Lord of War and New Thought of Crime - Movie Review Example No one takes into account millions of human lives killed by the arms, which is sold to different countries by such guys, as Orlov. There is no fear and emotions, there is only money. A group of people, such as Orlov, do not have moral norms and their deviant behavior is poignant and devastating for the modern society. Cruel and soulless money-gaining machines! Still, if to consider that modern governments chose military ways of doing their business, then â€Å"the Orlovs† are just dummies in their games. Therefore, the modern world is rather controversial and makes people look for different means to keep their head above the water. For the contemporaries, crime has turned into the means to survive and it is not surprising at all. Sometimes people have no other choice but to commit crime, small or big simply in order to stay alive. The globalized world is cruel and there is a need to shift the accents of survival: different means of earning money have all just resulted in a str ong desire to survive. The main prototype of Orlov is the Russian man Victor Bout, who lives unhindered in Moscow, but he is sought by different agencies all over the world. It is a controversial mentality of post-Soviet countries. An enormous quantity of military hardware is â€Å"ranging from bullets and tanks to nuclear warheads† (Viktor Bout Arms Traders and Lord of War). ... Thus, Victor Bout, a prototype of Orlov, was named as the core element of military conflicts. Actually, the main conflict was in the desire of the governments to survive in the cruel modern world, full of military conflicts and political challenges. Different wars in different times were connected with the name of this trader. The military conflict in Afghanistan's and his further help to Taliban. The main character has no soul; he sells weapon for killing innocent people as if he sells hotdogs or vacuum cleaners. It is claimed in the film that people gain profits from vast arms sales and from the taxes paid by the arms manufacturers and the millions of money they employ (Smoking Guns, 2005). The sources of arms trafficking are intimidating the world, and in spite of drugs trafficking, these sources are often neglected. There are shallow relationships between arms traders, governments and arms manufacturers. This is terra incognita. This is a fertile ground for gaining huge profits, a strong and powerful means to survive in the hostile and turbulent modern world (Smoking Guns, 2005). These guys, like Orlov, supply the governments with huge amounts of money and they are often released. These guys have no fear and there is a little bit of Orlov in every of us. This claim can be supported in the following way: it is appropriate in the modern society to survive by any means. There is no need to refer to moral norms or standardized principles of behavior (Smoking Guns, 2005). It is much easier to break up rules and remain safe, to create our own reality, to set up individuals norms and to gain money hand over fist and laugh at the victims of your game. This is the way Orlov acted. This claim can be

Cell Phones in Schools Essay Example for Free

Cell Phones in Schools Essay Who can work while listening to the incessant ringing of a cell phone? This does not creat an inviting classroom environment for students. Although cell phones would be useful in the event of an emergency, they should not be allowed in schools because of the increased amount of disruptive and social problems. Despite the interruptions, cell phones do provide on advantage. They allow quick communications during times of an emergency; they also enable students to contact their parents at any time for any reason. One example might be: if a student forgot that they have an after school affair to attend for that day, such as a sports practice or tutoring, they could easily notify their parents of the newly needed pick-up time. However, this convenience does not outwiegh the problems cell phones can cause. Disturbances during the school daycan cause students a great distraction. They could ring during class, and students attention would divert from the lesson to the phone. Students could want to chat in between classes, causing many tardies. They would also cause a riot if lost or stolen. Besides these factors, allowing cell phones in school could cause an influx of social problems. Kids are already picked on over a number of issues, such as appearances, financial status, etc. If a student is not fortunate enough to afford a cell phone, this would give cause for the other students to tease them. Overall, cell phone use in school might be slightly advantageous in an emergency sitituation, but they should not be allowed because the problems outweigh the benefits by far.

Importance Of Manpower Planning In Holiday Inn Hotel Commerce Essay

Importance Of Manpower Planning In Holiday Inn Hotel Commerce Essay Planning not only includes obtaining right person at right place but it also comprises of motivational programmes such as incentive plans for active participation of employees and certain other schemes and facilities which are integral part of a staffing function. The training and development of workforce that leads to co-operation and better human relations with which the Human Relation can be developed and stabilize through effective control, clear communication and effective supervision. Where there is a maximum utilization of resources there is increase in productivity level and the higher productivity leads result to minimum wastage of time, money and efforts and this is possible through activities such as training and development, remuneration and performance appraisal. It is an important element in the present industrialization where large scale industries requires management of large scale manpower and this could be effectively done with the help of staffing function. Staffin g is the key to all managerial functions and Human resources help in implementation of all major four functions which are known as planning, organizing, directing and controlling. It is considered to be a two phase process because it not only analyses the current human resources but it also makes a future forecast and helps to draw employment opportunity. Manpower is advantageous to this hotel in different aspects such as Helps in growth and diversification Shortages and surpluses can be identified so that quick action can be taken Avoids overstaffing and reduces labour costs as excess staff can be eliminated Based on manpower planning recruitments and selection process would take place Helps in stabilizing the organization with the help of manpower management Helps in identifying the skills of the employees and provide appropriate training to develop and utilize those skills and talent. Labour Market Strategy in Holiday Inn Holiday Inn addresses the challenges with respect to what to deliver to stakeholders over a time frame of 5-10 years and lead the thinking of providing information and direction regarding overall labour market dynamics. It has pathways to develop and create sustainable growth and prosperity. For development it requires retention, provincial economic sustainability, attraction of highly skilled and educated labour force. A strong system of communication that brings people together to ensure that public and private institutions spend time and money wisely and the goal of the labour market strategy are like High level participation in high quality and diversified employment Highly skilled workforce High quality and productive workplaces Incremental change on existing knowledge and skills Ref: http://www.managementstudyguide.com B. External factors The macro-environmental or external factors of a Holiday Inn Hotel can be identified by using PEST analysis which is Political, Economic, Social and Technology. Political factors: This factor mainly deals with the government policies and procedures which is worked out through legislation and consists of all legal factors such as How stable is the political environment? Government position on market ethics Government view on culture and religion Government policy on Economy Taxation policy on tax rates and incentives These are some of the political factors that include legal issues, government implementations and define both the formal and informal rules under which the organization must be operated. Economic factor: Each and every organization is affected with national and global economic factors such as Cost of labour Interest and Inflation rates Economic growth rates Business cycle stage (e.g. recession, recovery) Unemployment rates Socio-cultural factor: It includes the cultural and demographic aspects of the external macro environment. The potential of the employees who come from different back grounds and work together in the hotel and customer trends and aspect which the hotel has to consider as per their needs and wants such as Change in lifestyles Level of education Value in society Demographics (age, sex, race etc.,) Change in consumer needs and wants Technological factor: This factor is the major driver of globalization which reduces the minimum efficient of production levels and some of the technological factors are Recent technological developments Rate of technology changes Alternative way of providing services New discoveries Communication technology The technology has now become the most important aspect in any hotel as when the customers are mostly delighted and satisfied with service including latest technology that is available in the hotel. 1. Manpower Demand Factors There are several factors that are considered which created a requirement of manpower in Holiday Inn and are related to economic cycle such as like adaption of new Technology, a new demand either by increasing the productivity or by creating new goods especially in hotel industry. By adopting machines like coffee machines which are used to prepare quick coffee to the customers and ovens, refrigerators, coolers air conditioners which are used in kitchen for the quality production of food and wifi a free use of internet mobility for the customer and heaters which make the customers warm and comfortable. This adoption has made new kind of requirement of employees who could operate it correctly, quickly and maintain. The other factor is changing in Skill requirements where staff needs to perform different task by provided training and make them indulge with their job which is necessary to focus or they would lose the interest of doing the same activity and would probably look after the other job by changing the organization which results in labour turnover. By changing in skill requirements it has made the change in manpower planning by recruiting people from different backgrounds and training them in different departments and fields where they can have the overall control in different situations and skills to perform the service effectively and can have job satisfaction. The Productivity improvements is another factor which has created a demand for manpower in Holiday Inn which measures the productivity based on the number of task performed or the service that is provided to the customers in any given time of period. This measure includes a comparison of the service provided to established company or the customer quality standards. To measure the productivity improvements the time sheet has been maintained to indicate the time taken to complete particular task and look at the minimal customization of the quantity of work, for example the number of calls received per day, the number of queries handled, the number of customer served and many more which will be used as a measure. The hotel has also considered Expansion plans as the factor of demand for the manpower which needs skilled and efficient labour to give good start by providing effective and quality service. The diversity of hotel management is greater which involves combination of variety skills such as food and beverage, management, housekeeping services, accounting, sales and marketing, front office operation. While expansion the main aim of the organization is to maintain their position, service and quality standards in order to compete in the current market and the utmost importance is given to the employees, the skills and efficiency to achieve the organizational goals. Ref: http://www.scribd.com 2. Labour turn over As per Holiday Inn, the labour turnover determines the rate of recruitment. In the year 2008 the total number of leavers during the year is 120, the total number of employed at the beginning of year is 400 and at the end number of employed is 430. This can be measured as Number of Leavers / Average number of employers ÃÆ'- 100 i.e., 120 / 415 ÃÆ'- 100 = 29%, during the period there was a major change in employment level as the percentage does not measure the essential relationship between recruitment and labour turnover. There are several categories that cause attrition like death, retirement, migration, occupation mobility. Though there are many ways to find out the labour turnover but stability can be measured by indicating effects of policy change in the external labour market. The percentage of labour turnover can hide areas of stability within the target population. The 100% labour turnover may be produced by 400% labour turnover of a quarter of the target population. The labo ur turnover is considered based on the different market conditions. 3.Supply and Demand The supply and demand of the labour can be ensured with the help of the manpower planning that matches the overall business strategy and plan. Demand which is a process of analyzing, reviewing and attempting to achieve the organizational objectives and supply is necessary action taken to ensure that labour is available when ever required. These two factors are similar and go hand to hand when increase both increases and when decrease both decreases. The manager should have to consider both the factors demand and supply where to meet the demand like seasonal times during Christmas and summer holidays where the demand will be too high there should also be sufficient supply of staff. The main source could be the internal employees where the demand can be fulfilled by the human resource by promoting the internal employees in different departments apart some external labour should also be considered like fresh graduates from schools and colleges and when there is decrease in demand during non seasonal periods the internal labour will be too high, so the managers will be reducing the supply measures by retirement, resignations and voluntary scheme of retirements and if again demand increases then same procedure of hiring new employees and promoting internal staff. The manager keeps balance both the demand and supply. Ref: Human Resource management: Theory Practice by John Bratton, Jeffrey Gold 4.Work Arrangements: Once the employee is been recruited in an organization then it is the responsibility of the employer to look after the working conditions and provide proper basic and safety facilities to the employees. To provide such arrangements there are certain things that needs to be focused like Work Environment: The employer should consider the proper work environment to the employees where they will be able to work efficiently like Lights, Heaters, Elevators, Proper floor maintenance and emergency exits in case of emergency and proper equipment to work with. Safety arrangements: The employees should also be taken care with health and safety were they should be provided with insurance facilities and keeping danger equipments away and in restricted areas and see that no employee would get harm while working and also provide first aid facility on every floor. Rewards and Recognition: In Holiday Inn every year there will be best employee and best organizer will be rewarded apart from that the hotel should also come up with certain different ideas of nominating people which will inspire them to work harder and smarter. Leave compensation : The Hotel has also provided proper compensation to the employees not only paying overtime allowance but also by approving leaves of employees at constant period which helps in increasing efficiency and motivates employees to work for long term. Ref: Human resource management in the hospitality Tourism Industry. TASK 2 Recruitment and employment: : Legislation Implication Application Race Relation 1976 act Sex Discrimination 1986 act Disability Discrimination 1995 act Equal pay 1970 act Directly or indirectly it makes unlawful to discriminate against a person on grounds of ethnic, nationality, origin or colour. It covers all non contractual areas where it is unlawful to discriminate on the grounds of marital status or sex The act makes it unlawful if a disabled person is treated as less favorably because of his / her disability. The right states all the men and women, part time and full timers will be paid equal for doing the similar work. In organization once the employee is being recruited he / she cannot be distinguished or categorized in different departments based on their nationality, ethnic or colour In any organization men or women all are equal in the eyes of law and will be violated if the people are categorized in different segments based on their sex or marital status In organization based on skills and required department any person will not be discriminated based on his/ her disability. In Holiday Inn this rule is applicable to all the people who work probably same however it does not include basic wages and salaries to the contract employees, overtime, vouchers, sick pay schemes are not being indulged. Ref: www.city.ac.uk Statutory Provisions: The Holiday Inn has implemented health and safety act for the protection of the employees like Legislation Implication Application Health and safety act 1974 Management of health and safety at work regulation act 1999 Work Place regulation 1992 act ( Health, safety and welfare) RIDDOR act 1995 This act secures health, safety and welfare of the employees at work premises It implies for employers to assess and manage risk to employees and others arising from work activities It is applicable to the workplace environment and ensures it is safe and suitable to carry the task and doesnà ¢Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¡Ã‚ ¬Ãƒ ¢Ã¢â‚¬Å¾Ã‚ ¢t present risk to employee and others. It is reporting of injuries, disease and dangerous occurrences regulation It is applicable to all the people who work in the hotel and provides safe access and maintenance with proper storage and safe handling of dangerous substances and also providing training to staff to ensure the health and safety. There are proper arrangements being made to ensure the health and safety of the employees at work place by making proper arrangements for emergencies, training to employees and providing adequate information for health surveillance where appropriate It is to ensure the work place is safe to carry on the task like ventilation, lightning, sanitary conveniences, escalators and moving walkways, work station and seating, temperature in indoor workplaces, drinking water, room dimensions and work space, drinking water and facilities to change clothes, rest and eat meals. The employers and people in control premises need to report major injuries, dangerous occurrence or any work related deaths to incident contact centre or via online. Ref: www.healthyworkinglives.com Code of Practice: Legislation Application Implication Employment act 1996 Employment relation 1999 act Disciplinary policy and practice. Handling Record Keeping This law states that an employer cannot dismiss an employee on certain basis. This law ensures the Disciplinary and grievance, leave for family and domestic reasons, trade unions and other rights of an individual. This process is instructed on two main areas conduct due to lack in performance and capability which is failure to follow the hotel instruction and procedures. It is where all the employers have to support and train to carry out disciplinary meetings with their team. If any employee refuse to prevent the risk of health and safety at work or refuse to return to workplace which is believed to be dangerous workplace for an employee to work then the employer cannot dismiss the employee. It is a right of an employee to get accompanied and can complaint to employment tribunal which also includes interpretation. This law is also applicable to entitle of leaves during domestic incidents, maternity or parental leave and consequent amendments. The other rights would be like part time work discrimination, code of practice, unfair dismissal, and training to employees. In certain cases the employer may encounter difficulties with the performance of the employees due to illness or mental stress. At such instances the manager has to show more support and deal it properly if no alternative is left then have to approach formal capability procedure. If the employee is not following the procedures like being late to hotel all the time or fail to follow the management instruction the employer should have to follow ACAS code i.e. first sending warning letter and conducting meeting and appealing. It is unlawful if any of the employees do leak the confidential data of the customers in the hotel. The employees should have to consider the confidentiality of the data and may be dismissed if violated the rule. Ref: www.personneltoday.com Organisation: Legislation Application Implication National Minimum wage act 1999 Paid Leaves entitled to the employees This law is applicable to all the people who work in United Kingdom It is where the employees will The legal way of paying the minimum wage to an employee is what called as NMW which an employer should pay at least on hourly basis and then it is calculated on arrears.

Bringing hydrocephalus

The history of hydrocephalus dates back to the time of Hippocrates (he died c. 375) and even further to medieval times when physicians believed that it was caused by an extractable (sic) accumulation of water. Surgical evacuation of superficial fluid in hydrocephalus children was first described in detail by Balalaikas AY Zachary in 1744 (Scoff, Kramer, Hashish & Sunken, 1999).While there have been many great strides, both in research and treatment, it seems the great pool of knowledge resides not thin the medical community, but in the adult survivors of the condition. One can only wonder if this is due, at least in part, to a perception by the medical community that it is not a survivable condition. Actually the exact opposite is now true. With proper medical treatment (done in a timely manner) and LOTS of love and support from the patient's family, many hydrocephalus children can go on to live near normal lives.Introduction The modern era of hydrocephalus research began with the st udies of Dandy and Blackman in 1914 (Grittier, 2007). To this day their work is considered an unsurpassed nutrition toward the understanding of hydrocephalus. While I applaud their work, it has been ninety-nine (99) years since any work of a similar scope or caliber has been undertaken and it is beginning to show. As an example, when I was born in 1963, I showed the early stages of congenital hydrocephalus and my family was basically told â€Å"take him home to die†.Needless to say, I didn't die and have become – even according to the local medical community – one of the best sources of information in our area when it comes to hydrocephalus. Although I feel honored to eave such distinction, it's not enough – the medical community – especially pediatricians – need to possess that same knowledge and that is my purpose in writing this paper. L. 20-Year decline in the mortality rate for hydrocephalus Before getting too involved in why hydrocepha lus research needs to be brought into the 21st century, an explanation of the condition is needed.Hydrocephalus is defined as â€Å"A condition marked by an excessive accumulation of cerebration's fluid (SF) resulting in dilation of the cerebral ventricles and elevated interracial pressure; (it) ay also result in enlargement of the cranium and atrophy of the brain† (Williams, 2006). It can take one of two forms. It can be either communicating (meaning there is not visible cause for the blockage of SF) or non-communicating (meaning it results from an abnormal flow of SF in and around the brain. It is also known as pediatric hydrocephalus since it is normally present from birth. (â€Å"Nervous system diseases,† 2008). When I was born in 1963, the life expectancy for a child with this condition was approximately two (2) years and the only known treatment, placement of a shunt, was still in its infancy. Since that time, shunt surgery has been refined and could almost †“ depending on the individual patient – be considered an almost routine procedure. In an article published in the August 2005 issue of the Journal of Neurosurgery, Dry. J. H. Chi, ET. AY. Stated â€Å"Congenital hydrocephalus has an estimated population incidence of 0. To 0. 8/1,000 live births† (Chi, Fullerton & Guppy, 2005). They credit this to improvements in techniques for SF shunting; however, they state that data describing mortality from congenital hydrocephalus – or that demonstrate improvements in the mortality rate are scarce. For those not familiar with shunt implantation surgery, it involves making a small incision in both the top of the head and the abdomen (in the case of a ventricular-peritoneal (UP) shunt) to insert the shunt which drains excess fluid from the brain (Goodman, 2013).To validate their hypothesis, the doctors performed an electronic search of the National Center for Health Statistics death certificate database to identify deaths f rom 1979 to 1988 directly attributable to congenital hydrocephalus, spins biffed with hydrocephalus, and acquired hydrocephalus in all children in the United States aged one (1) day to 0 years. There were 10,406 deaths attributed to childhood hydrocephalus during the 20-year period reviewed. This translates to an overall mortality rate of 0. 71 per 100. 000 person-years.Additionally, their research showed infants had the highest mortality rate with 3,979 deaths. Overall during the period deaths from acquired hydrocephalus – meaning that it occurs after birth and is the result of a tumor, injury, or disease that blocks the uptake of SF – decreased 67. 5%, deaths from congenital hydrocephalus declined 66. 3 %, and deaths from spins biffed with hydrocephalus declined 30. 4%. What does it all mean? It means that the medical community needs to re-think their position on hydrocephalus as well as what they tell patients and their families.It means saying â€Å"Take him/her h ome to die,† is no longer an option. Does it mean re-inventing the wheel? For an older doctor it could very well mean that although, in most cases, it will not be quite so drastic. The Hydrocephalus Clinical Research Network (HCI) makes the following recommendations to its members: Reduce risk of infection associated with shunt surgery Approximately 8% – 10% of shunt operations result in an infection. A study is currently underway for a quality improvement technique that will reduce surgery- related shunt infection(s). (Woolens, 2013).The result will be a reduction in the infection rate thereby reducing the length of hospitalizing as well as patient morbidity. Management of hydrocephalus in premature children The HCI is investigating two (2) surgical procedures that are commonly used to manage IV-induced hydrocephalus in premature children. A sublease reservoir is an implant consisting of a tube which goes into the ventricle attached to a silicone bubble that sits under the skin. As fluid accumulates in the ventricle, it can be removed by a needle puncture through the skin and into the silicone bubble.The second procedure is an s sublease shunt, which is similar to the reservoir except that the silicone bubble under the skin has a reservoir has an opening in the side that allows fluid to flow out under the skin. The fluid is then absorbed into the tissues. Understanding the epidemiology and outcomes of Endoscopies Third Ventriloquist's or TV Endoscopies Third Ventriloquist's (TV) is a surgical procedure where a small perforation is made is made in the thinned floor of the third entrance allowing movement of SF out of the blocked ventricular system and into the intracellular cistern which is a normal SF space.The objective of this procedure, known as a interracial SF diversion, is to normalize pressure on the brain without using a shunt. Although TV is widely used in Europe to treat hydrocephalus, its use in North America is much less common. The H CI is working to understand when the procedure is indicated as well as its associated outcomes and possible complications. The use of TV is attractive due to the fact that infection s very rare as are other complications such as slit ventricles.Conclusion Our knowledge of hydrocephalus has come a long way since medieval times when it was believed that hydrocephalus was the result of extractable (sic) accumulation of water. It has even made significant strides since the groundbreaking work of Dandy and Blackman in 1914, but the medical community must not rest on its laurels. In order to fully bring the treatment of hydrocephalus into the 21st century, they must embrace research being done by organizations like the Hydrocephalus Clinical Research Network.I feel this increased awareness is long past due because, even though it has been almost [emphasis added] a half-century since I was born with the condition, the amount of information available to the medical community remain largely unchanged. I think that is due – at least in part – to the misconception that there is not a high survival rate, therefore, why waste the money? My research has shown that over the past twenty (20) years, the mortality rate for hydrocephalus has actually declined with 0. 71 per 100,000 errors/year (Chi, 2005).The vast majority of the deaths were the result of congenital hydrocephalus – meaning that it is present to some degree when the baby is born. Here is how the AC can help to make my â€Å"big idea† (the name given by our instructor to our project) a reality. Publish more articles about the condition, research into it, and current treatment such as shunting and Endoscopies Third Ventriloquist's. Do feature stories about both child and adult survivors because we have a story we would like the world to know about!

Eddie in Blood Brothers Essay

Eddie and Mickey were born from the same mother Mrs. Johnston, but they have extremely different lives. They were identical twins; they look exactly the same. But Mrs. Lyons separated them and made them have a different life. From then on, one of them, Mickey stayed with Mrs. Johnston lives in a big, poor family and the other one who was taken by Mrs. Lyons became very rich and got everything. They have been in a different world because of many factors surrounding them to rich or poor from the moment they have been born. I think the most influential factors are the family they have got and the family classes different. The different kind and level of education they have got did also influence them much. Also, the religion of the family is one of the factors that affect the life of the child as well. Different thing has different amount of influence to Mickey and Eddie’s life. I am going to discuss the factors one by one. The social context is messy at the time between late 70s and early 80s that the play was set. It is called recession. Margaret Thatcher is the Prime Minister; she encouraged people to make lots of money. As a result, the rich people in middle or upper class can earn much money but the poor people in working class lost their jobs. Life is very hard for working class, as they get poorer without a job. Mickey’s family is suffered from this social climate. His family is poor. Unlike Eddie, his family is in middle class, he is rich. They have a great contrast in their life because the classes are different. Marilyn Monroe is the social icon of the day at that time. She is very glamorous, rich and she represents a life of fantasy. Everyone wants to be her. We know that from the book on p. 14, Act 1, Scene 1, it said â€Å"He told me I was sexier than Marilyn Monroe†, which is about Mr. Johnston said her wife was sexier, lovelier than Marilyn Monroe. It shows the value of that time. But that is what totally different from Mickey. Mickey is poor; he dressed scruffy. He lives in council house and his family is working class. He does not have money to buy everything he wanted. But Eddie, he is rich, he has got new clothes, and he looks smart. He lives in private house and his family is middle class. They are exactly the same, but the way of living is really different with one of them is living in a rich environment and another lives in a poor world. This is how the classes different influence their life. The size and people in their family have also influenced them. Mickey has a big family with 7 brothers and sisters. The speech of the mother in p. 14, Act 1, Scene 1, told us about that. She said: † Seven hungry mouths to feed and one more nearly due. † Mickey is the youngest in the family; he has to fight for food and everything with the elder brothers and sisters. Therefore, he needs to grow up fast and look tough to protect himself in case of beaten up by others. He also wants to his elder brother Sammy because he wants to get older so he can do everything he loves. We can see how much he wants to be Sammy in the book on p. 30, Act 2, Scene 1, he has repeated the sentences – â€Å"I wish I was our Sammy. â€Å"- for five times. He does everything Sammy did; however, Sammy was not a good example for Mickey to learn. So Mickey becomes a joker and streetwise since he has got influenced by his brother Sammy. The family of Eddie, we know that he is the only child in his rich family and they are in middle class. He lives with his mum only most of his life. We don’t know much about Eddie’s father because the book does not mention about him much. Mrs. , Lyons, Eddie’s mother, loves her son very much. She gives him a good shelter, gives him everything he wanted. This makes very weak and soft and he will not know the hardship of the working class since life is easy for him. Time ran through quick by dramatic devices in the book. We can see how much difference between Mickey and Eddie over a long period. At first, when they are born, they are not much different from each other in either class or education. But when they are at the age of 17, Mickey is dropped out from school and on the other side Eddie was going to University. Then, when they both go to work, Mickey loses his job and Eddie is the boss of a factory. The education level made them have such a big difference. Mickey is poor educated as he left school when he was 17. He was study in government school. Normally, there is nothing bad to study in government school. But compare to Eddie, Eddie was study in private school, he was well educated. He could use a dictionary at the age of seven while Mickey do not even know what a dictionary is. We knew that from the conversation between Mickey and Eddie. Eddie said, â€Å"I shall look it up in a dictionary. † from p. 33, Act 2, Scene 2. From the speech of the narrator at p. 56, Act 4, Scene 1, we know Mickey and Eddie are getting older as they are 18. This is the job of narrator to take us through time and speed things up. Eddies goes into a University straight after he left his college but at that time Mickey was already dropped out from the school and working in a factory. Then, Eddie got a job, which is the boss of the factory, straight after he finished his studying. By that time Eddie becomes really powerful and rich but the other one, Mickey, is just a worker in a factory! They are identical twins but we can see how education makes them go into a different life. Superstition is one of the influences. Mrs. Johnston is very superstitious as we can see from the several events from the book. On p. 18, Act 1, Scene 3, Mrs. Lyons put a pair of new shoes on the table then Mrs. Johnston saw it and tell her never do this. This is a superstition thinking that something had will happen to you, which you will never notice. This shows that Mrs. Johnston is superstitious. I believe that she believes in religion. And this makes Mickey kind of superstitious as well. He believes what ‘blood brother’ is. On the other side, I don’t think Mrs. Lyons has any religion at all. She does not respect Mrs. Johnston and always use the weakness of Mrs. Johnston, that she is superstitious, to coerce her into doing something. At first Eddie does not believe any superstition things but Mickey influences him. He admires Mickey and everything Mickey does. He likes Mickey and wants Mickey likes him as well. On p. 32, Act2 2, Scene 2, we know Eddie gives sweets to Mickey. This reflected he is eager to please. Eddie used to don’t know much about colloquial until Mickey told him. He thought everything Mickey said was smashing. And he believes that what Mrs. Johnston told her on p. 35, Act 2, Scene 2, about bogeyman. This shows that he is nai ve and innocent. In conclusion, I can divide the influences on the lives of Mickey and Eddie in four main sections. The differences between Mickey and Eddie in the family, the social class they are, the education they have and the religion of the family. They are identical twins but they have got a very different life, I think it is because these things that I have mentioned before influenced them.

Comparison of operating Systems essays

Comparison of operating Systems essays Operating systems have evolved from simple standalone and command line programs like MSDOS to distributed multi-user systems like windows and Linux, which support graphical user interface. Every new version of the operating system tries to address the hidden loopholes and to improve the efficiency and security. The file allocation systems and the security implementation are also different between these operating systems. Today's multi user environment has literally stomped out the simple standalone operating system like MSDOS. Windows has also evolved a long way from 16 bit OS to 32-bit operating system. Linux being an open source system is evolving at a faster pace. A comparative study of these three operating systems in context of the important features like user interface, file management, memory management, security implementation would help us discern the similarities and differences between them. MS-DOS was a purely text based operating system before the Dosshell with minimal graphical features was introduced in MS-DOS version 4. Windows is a GUI operating system, which uses a standard display mode for the desktop. Linux by default was a text based (command line) operating system but now users can choose from a variety of graphical user interfaces that are provided now by the X window based graphical display. Two of the common interfaces being the GNOME, KDE. The KDE has a comprehensive office suit, web browser and text editor. The configurability of these interfaces is what differentiates Linux from windows allowing for highly customizable desktop environments. Another key difference between windows and Linux is that the Linux operating system offers graphical user interface abstraction' at the network level as against the hardware level abstraction' offered by windows and other operating systems. [Nathan's Both Linux and windows use the process model. The...

Tinnitus and the potential adverse effects on the hearing of Fitness Instructors The WritePass Journal

Tinnitus and the potential adverse effects on the hearing of Fitness Instructors Abstract Tinnitus and the potential adverse effects on the hearing of Fitness Instructors AbstractChapter One Introduction1.1   Background 1.2 Aim1.3   Objectives   Chapter Two Literature Review2.1   Noise Induced Hearing Loss (NIHL)2.2 Noise in fitness classes2.4   Legislation   Chapter Three Methodology   3.1  Method3.2 EthicsChapter Four Results4.1   Study Results4.2 Noise levelsChapter Five Discussion5.1  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Noise exposure5.3   Study limitations  Chapter Six ConclusionConclusion  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   6.16.2 Results summaryChapter Seven  RecommendationsRecommendation  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   7.1Reference listRelated Abstract Aim: The purpose of the study was to establish noise levels to which fitness instructors are exposed to during the teaching of their classes, in particular when amplified music was used to motivate participants. The study also surveyed instructors to find out possible factors that may explain why such noise levels are being used in their classes. Methods:   An empirical study was performed using personal noise dosimetry to measure the noise levels and exposure of the fitness instructors at work. The exercise classes targeted where those which used pre determined amplified music. Five male and two female instructors from six gyms participated in the study. The study administered an after-class questionnaire to the instructors to ascertain the extent of the instructors’ workloads, awareness of noise, regulations and other factors.   Results: The lowest measured Equivalent Continuous Sound Level (Leq) was 81 dB (A) and the highest leq reading was 95 dB (A). The mean Leq for all the instructors was 88 dB (A). The lowest measured peak noise level was 128 dB (A) and the highest peak level was 144 dB (A). The dosimeter equipment used was able to calculate the personal daily exposure level (Lep’d). Lep’d measurements ranged from 76 dB (A) and 85 dB (A) with a mean personal daily exposure of 80dB (A). The results showed that four (57%) of the instructors music levels were above the first action value in the Noise at Work Regs 2006 and two of those over the second action value. None of the instructors sampled had received training in regard to hearing protection or controlling the nose levels within their classes. However, one instructor was aware of the Control of Noise at Work Regs, despite recording the second highest Lep’d of 84dB (A). Conclusions: The study showed that there was no training and a poor awareness of the risks of exposure to high noise levels, with the majority of instructors exposing themselves to such risks frequently. There is a need for education and training for both the instructors and the gym management. Chapter One Introduction 1.1   Background Noise is a sound that produces undesirable physical or psychological effects (Cone and Hayes, 1985). The European Agency for Safety and Health at Work (EASHW) (2005) define noise as an unwanted sound, whose intensity is measured in decibels (dB), a logarithmic scale, which is A-weighted to take the human ear’s sensitivity into account. The EASHW (2005) estimate that during 2003/4, an estimated 80,000 people in Great Britain thought they were suffering from a hearing problem that was caused or made worse by their previous or current occupation. Similar research by the Medical Research Council survey in 1997-98, gave a prevalence estimate of 509 000 people in Great Britain suffering from hearing difficulties as a result of exposure to noise at work (Palmer et al, 2001). The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) defines that exposure to noise over 85 dB (A) through an 8 hour day is hazardous to hearing. This is further backed up by previous study performed by Jons (1996), which claims that 103,000 workers have deafness, tinnitus or other ear conditions which is associated to their employment and that a further 18,300 have a condition made worse by their work. Employees whose occupation lies within a noisy environment are more likely to suffer hearing loss and associated factors. Although many occupations involve noise, Diaz and Pedrero (2006) identified that people typically perform a range of activities throughout the day in varying locations, and subsequently exposed to a diverse range of sound environments.   The EASHW (2005) highlight the issue that, millions of European workforce are subjected to noise at work, and that while noise in the industrial sector are an obvious problem; it can also be an issue with a wide range of other working environments. While Noise Induced Hearing Loss is most prevalent among individuals over the age of 65, the incidence rate is expected to rise as the population ages; the number of young people with hearing loss is increasing (NIOSH, 1998). This argument was concurrent with a study performed by Palmer et al (2002) who found that the prevalence of hearing loss and tinnitus increased with the extent of work-related exposure to noise, despite age increases. The findings from previous studies present the possibility of clinical implications for those regularly attending fitness classes which includes pre set amplified music. This factor is increased as this noisy environment forms part of everyday life for instructors. Clinical implications of a noisy work environment include illnesses such as tinnitus and its associated consequences. The health effects of noise on hearing have long been established. Maassen et al (2001) propose that numerous years of exposure to music with frequencies particularly damaging to hearing at high noise levels can lead to substantial damage and employees in a noisy workplace have an increased risk of hearing loss. A common consequence of excessive noise exposure is tinnitus. Tinnitus refers to a perception of noise arising without corresponding auditory stimulation (Baguley, 2002). This poorly understood condition is experienced by 10% 15% of the population at some time during their lifetime (Andersson et al, 2000). Many people experience symptoms shortly after exposure to loud noise, whereas other it can last until medical intervention. Tinnitus is often described as a ‘‘buzzing in the ears,’’ however it sufferers also describe the nose as whistling, hissing, ringing or roaring of varying intensity, loudness, and pitch. (McKenna, 2008). Sufferers of this dise ase may also find it difficult to distinguish between different sounds within their proximity, which can cause further discomfort. The effect of tinnitus on an individual is not limited to a physical implication, but rather psychological, which include depression amongst other similar debilitating diseases (Andersson et al., 2005). It has also been suggested that links between an increase in workplace accidents which may have involved excessive noise and hearing impairment (Picard et al, 2008). 1.2 Aim The aim of this dissertation is to establish noise levels and the potential adverse effects to which fitness instructors are exposed to during the teaching of their classes, in particular when amplified music is used to motivate participants. The study will also survey instructors to find out possible factors that may explain why such noise levels are being used in their classes. 1.3   Objectives Empirically identify the levels of sound used by fitness instructors during their classes Survey fitness instructors’ instructors’ to find out their knowledge of noise issues, amount of exposure and awareness of noise levels. Identify the workload of instructors and any other factors that may affect results e.g. hobbies. Analyse data Determine if factors outlined in the questionnaire have any consequence on the outcome of the measurements taken from the dosemeter. Identify findings and discuss problems encountered Discuss further research needs    Chapter Two Literature Review 2.1   Noise Induced Hearing Loss (NIHL) The issue of NIHL has long been established, particularly within the manufacturing, mining, construction and foundry industries (William R, 2007). Hearing conservation programmes have been running throughout Europe, which in Sweden resulted in a drop of 3 dB (A) within the industrial machinery industry over a 20 year period (WHO, 1997) The problem of leisure time NIHL may have first been recognised with the introduction of personal stereos. Various studies identified that it was not only the workplace that posed a risk to hearing, but also leisure times activities. Potential sources of high leisure noise levels include machinery (e.g. lawn mowers, power tools), rock concerts and discotheques, personal stereo systems and toys (Davies and Fortnum et al, 1985). Despite the improvement in NIHL within the workplace and within some leisure environments’, it has mainly been limited to the workforces which fall within the industrial sector. NIHL is a recognised problem within the U.K and has been attempted to be addressed by the Control of Noise at Work Regulations 2005, however there are working environments which continue to be exceed recommended noise action values for example the noise which are experienced during an aerobics class (Nassar, 2001). While attending an aerobics class is unlikely to induce hearing loss, previous research suggests that regular exposure to noise over 85 dB (A) may be detrimental to hearing capabilities. 2.2 Noise in fitness classes The use of amplified music in fitness classes is commonplace, primarily to motivate the participants and enhance fitness performance (Howley Franks, 2007). It is also suggested that the use of music during fitness classes improves the performance of participants, and often noisy environment are necessary for the enjoyment of the activity. This is called the â€Å"social noise phenomenon† (Clark Calvert, 1991). Also in this workout environment, young adults who participate in fitness classes are at risk of exposure to high levels of music delivered through loudspeakers (Yaremchuk Kaczor, 1999). With the use of loud music in fitness classes, the risk of impairing instructors hearing increases, especially if they are exposed to the noise for prolonged periods of time. A fundamental detail of fitness instruction is the requirement for instructors to instruct participants as to exercises they’ll be performing and to offer encouragement. â€Å"Instructors often find thems elves shouting commands to participants, which may result in vocal fold abnormalities. To overcome the strain of shouting over music, some instructors will use microphones that are louder than the background music. Unfortunately, this allows music to be played at an even louder volume† (Yaremchuk Kaczor, 1999) Previous research into the noise produced at fitness classes have concentrated on the level of noise within the room, rather than the instructors’ individual exposure. The Yaremchuk Kaczor (1999) study measured sound pressure levels during aerobics classes at five different health clubs, readings were taken using a portable sound level meter. A study of noise in fitness classes undertaken by Fusco and Marcondes (1989) was performed on numerous fitness classes in Sao Paulo, Brazil, recording noise levels ranging from 82dB(A) to 160dB(A). This study focused on the noise that was observable in the room and not the personal exposure of the instructors. Palma et al (2009) performed a cross sectional study of 15 instructors in Brazil to identify the level of exposure that instructors were exposed to during the teaching of fitness classes and its relationship with other factors of health. Palma et al (2009) also used a questionnaire with to establish correlations between health factors and noise levels. To achieve sound pressure measurements, the study used a Sound Level Meter that was located near to the instructor to achieve a realistic personal dose measurement. The study found sound pressure levels ranged from 74.4 dB (A) and 101 dB (A) with a mean Leq of 89.81. Wilson and Herbstein (2003) examined how participants in these aerobics classes perceived the music levels. Approximately, 75% of participants reported that the music was at a comfortable level when it was presented at both 85 and 89 dBA; and even when the level presented was 97 dBA, 67% of participants still felt that it was a comfortable level. Furthermore, 76% of participants enjoyed the class more when the music was presented at a level of 89 dBA. And finally, 74% of participants reported that they were more motivated to work harder when the music was presented at 89 and 97 dBA. An unfortunate consequence of enjoying a class more and being more motivated when the music is presented at such high levels is the potential deleterious long-term effects on hearing sensitivity. A study performed by Yarenchuk and Kaczor (1999) measured noise levels at 5 different leisure centres and 125 aerobics classes. The study used a sound level meter to record sound pressure levels at 5 minute intervals, the study recorded a range of 78 dB(A) to 106 dB(A) and a mean Sound Pressure Level (SPL) of 94 dB(A) and 27 classes having an SPL of 90 dB(A). Echoing the results found by Yarenchuk and Kaczor 2001, a study by Mirbod et al (1994) within 3 health clubs, found similar peak, and mean values within fitness classes. A study into noise at aerobics classes in Manchester was performed by Nassar (2001), the study recorded noise levels in fitness class studios. The study by Nassar (2001) recorded a mean noise level of 89.6dB (A) and also performed a pure tone threshold hearing test based on the audible range of the class noise frequency (subjects). The subjects then attended aerobics classes. A noise level of 90 dB(A) was pre-set and the classes lasted 60 minutes, two minutes after the class had ceased, post class pure tone audiometry was performed. The study results showed that there was evidence of temporary threshold shift which has the potential to lead to permanent hearing loss (Moller, 2010). However, despite these findings, the use of pure tone audiometry to assess the potentially harmful effects of noise on peoples hearing has failed to show any marked effect in numerous studies (Carter, 1984). 2.4   Legislation The Health and Safety at Work Act 197 general duties state that; It shall be the duty of every employer to conduct his undertaking in such a way as to ensure, so far as is reasonably practicable, that persons not in his employment who may be affected thereby are not thereby exposed to risks to their health or safety. With particular relation to noise, there is further guidance on controlling noise levels within the workplace.   The Control of Noise at Work Regulations 2005 are based on a European Union Directive, the Council and Parliament Directive 2003/10/EC of 6th February 2003, which stipulated the minimum health and safety requirements regarding exposure of workers to the risks arising from physical agents (noise) (HSE, 2006). Regulation 5 of the regulations requires employers to perform a risk assessment for employees should their work activities expose them to noise at or above the lower action values mentioned in Regulation 4 (HSE, 2006). The intention of risk assessments is to identify hazards, decide who may be harmed, evaluate risks and decide on precautions, record finding and implement them and finally review and update them. In performing a risk assessment of noise exposure, it allows the employer to prevent and implement sufficient control of noise levels. Further to this; Regulation 9 of the Control of Noise at Work Regs 2006 require that, where a risk assessment has identified a noise source which poses risk to an employee’s health, that hearing protection must be provided (HSE, 2006) Regulation 10 of Control of Noise at Work Regs requires employers to supply employees with training and instruction should they be exposed to noise levels that breach the lower action values (HSE, 2006).` An uncomplicated way towards the reduction of hazardous noise levels and compliance with the noise regulations in fitness classes would be to reduce the level of noise to a safe limit which reduces the risk of NIHL. This would result in safer working conditions, less strain on the vocals of instructors and reduction in noise related illnesses e.g. Tinnitus. Within the Control of Noise at Work Regulations (2005), regulation 4 states the exposure limit values and action values as so: Regulation 4.- (1)  the lower exposure action values are (a) a daily or weekly personal noise exposure of 80 dB (A-weighted); and (b) a peak sound pressure of 135 dB (C-weighted). (2)  The upper exposure action values are- (a) a daily or weekly personal noise exposure of 85 dB (A-weighted); and (b) a peak sound pressure of 137 dB (C-weighted). (3)  The exposure limit values are- (a) a daily or weekly personal noise exposure of 87 dB (A-weighted); and (b) a peak sound pressure of 140 dB (C-weighted).    Chapter Three Methodology    3.1  Method As already mentioned, there have been many studies into the noise levels within the fitness class arena, however, very few have been performed within the U.K and considered the personal exposure of instructors using a dosimeter. This study will use a cross sectional method by recording personal exposure of instructors, using a dosemeter and questionnaire to identify the knowledge and awareness of instructors of noise issues, that may occur during their fitness classes. The empirical study was performed over 7 different fitness instructors, teaching various classes within 6 different arenas within Hambleton District and Leeds. Initially 8 leisure centres were identified to participate in the study; however one of them refused to take part. Once permission had been granted by the management of leisure centres, Instructors were approached and explained what the study entailed and its aims outlined. Seven fitness instructors were approached, all of whom agreed to participate. The profile of instructors was varied and included inexperienced and experienced, male and female instructors. The fitness classes chosen to participate in the study were based on the involvement of music to which the class was taught. The post class questionnaire was given to instructors to complete should they feel comfortable doing so. It was also explained to them that should they reverse their decision for the information on the questionnaire to be used, they could contact me and data would be destroyed.   Participants of the fitness classes took no part in the study, and at times explained what the equipment the instructor was doing. This explanation was at the instructors’ discretion. Due to instructors having to wear equipment and take time to participate in the study, it was decided that the instructor would only be asked to participate in the study once. Although this limited the length of the study, it was felt that this would be least problematic for instructors’ and management of gyms who may have felt uneasy at numerous reading being performed. They types of classes were noise measurement were performed were, aerobics, boxercise, spinning and body attack. (See appendices for individual descriptions) As with the nature of aerobics, movement is ongoing throughout the duration of the class, and using a sound level meter would not accurately record personal noise levels accurately. A dosemeter (Casella’s CEL-360 noise dosimeter) was used to measure the noise levels from the amplified music rather than a sound level meter as it provided a more accurate reading of the instructor’s personal exposure to the noise. The Dosemeter was be attached to the instructors clothing, as near to the ear as possible to get the most realistic measurement. Unlike a sound level meter, the use of a dosemeter will also taken into account how near the instructor is to the amplified music, consequently giving a more realistic measurement. Prior to the commencement of the study and before each class, the dosemeter was calibrated and configured as to provide readings of Equivalent Continuous Sound Level (Leq), daily personal exposure (Lep’d), The dosemeter was also set to a (A) weighting to reflect the frequency response of the human ear. The Dosemeter was calibrated and configured prior to each class begging and set to record minutes before the class began. This did not affect recording as the music in all classes was present prior to the class beginning its warm up. The dosemeter was locked for the duration of the class to limit accidental interference by the instructor. The dosemeter was then positioned on the hip of the instructor with a wire connected to the microphone which clipped on the neck of the instructors t-shirt, approximately 12cm from the ear. On completion of the class, the dosemeter was taken from the instructor and recordings stopped. On completion of the class, instructors were asked to complete a questionnaire accompanied by an ethical information sheet as required by Leeds Metropolitan Universities Ethics Policy. It was decided to keep the questionnaire to one side of A4 due to time constraints of instructors and the likelihood of it being completed accurately. All instructors completed the questionnaire. Recorded noise levels were taken from the dosemeter and given a reference number to allow correlations from questionnaire and recording to be analysed. The post class questionnaire sought to identify the profile of instructors and their experience teaching classes. This included Age, Gender and experience of teaching fitness classes to music. These factors were included as a study by Daniel (2007) defined that risk factors for NIHL include age, gender and race, with age having the most significant factor of developing NIHL due to hearing capability declining with age. The experience of instructors teaching classes was asked to try identify whether through experience, noise levels decreases or due to continuous exposure noise levels increases due to poorer hearing. The questionnaire also aimed to identify the knowledge of instructors regarding hearing damage, training of noise levels and the use of hearing protection and awareness of Control of Noise at Work Regulations 2006. These factors were chosen as they have not been included in previous studies and was felt that it would provide a indication of reasons why loud music if used.   A final question of instructors opinion of the loudness aimed to identify their knowledge of what level of continuous noise exposure may induce hearing loss may sound like. 3.2 Ethics All participant of the study were provided with written information sheets explaining the nature of the study in conjunction with a verbal explanation and questionnaire. Due to the free lance nature of instructors, written permission to perform the study was also sought prior to the study commencing (See appendix). All participants had the opportunity to withdraw the data collected. Participant data was kept confidential and secure, although it should be noted that names of participants were not kept attached to questionnaires. Chapter Four Results 4.1   Study Results For raw data that will be discussed in this section, see appendix 2. Seven instructors agreed to participate in the study, all of whom completed the questionnaire and did not request to withdraw the data collected. One leisure centre refused my request to undertake the research. This level of full participation was expected due to the use of convenience sampling. The socio demographics of the participants was as follows: 5 male (71.5%) and 2 female (28.5%). Two instructors were between the ages of 18-25 (28.5%), 3 Instructors were between the ages of 26-35 (43%) and 2 Instructors over the age of 36 (28.5%). All instructors taught between 1 and 4 different types of class each week which involved amplified music. These were a combination of aerobics, spinning, boxercise and body combat. Of the classes mentioned; two instructors taught only boxercise (28.5%). Two instructors taught aerobics and spinning classes only (28.5%) and the remaining 3 instructors taught all 4 different classes during one week (42.9%). The results showed that body combat was the least taught class amongst instructors. The number of hours a week teaching classes was split into two groups. Four instructors spent less than 10 hours a week instructing classes (57.14%) with remaining instructors teaching classes more than 10 hours per week (42.86%). The experience of teaching classes varied greatly which generally had an impact on the number of classes they taught each week. Three Instructors’ had instructed classes for less than 2 Years (42.9%). Two instructors had instructed classes between 2 and 10 years (28.5%) and the remaining two instructors had taught classes for over 10 years (28.5%). The study found that the longer the instructor had been teaching classes, the more hours were spent each week instructing classes to music. The perception of noise within classes varied from instructor thinking the music was quiet to loud. One instructor thought the music in their class was quiet (14.7%). Four instructors thought the noise level was ‘about right’ (57.14%) and the remaining two instructors thinking the music being played was loud (28.5%). Of all the instructors surveyed, none had received training on the noise regs, with one instructor having an awareness of regulations. Despite one instructor reporting previous medical problems with their hearing, they had not received training or were aware of the Control of Noise at Work Regulation 2006. However, this person did perceive the music they were using as quiet, 4.2 Noise levels The lowest measured Equivalent Continuous Sound Level (Leq) was 81 dB (A) and the highest leq reading was 95 dB (A). The mean Leq for all the instructors was 88 dB (A). The lowest measured peak noise level was 128 dB (A) and the highest peak level was 144 dB (A). The dosimeter equipment used was able to calculate the personal Daily Exposure Level (Lep’d). It was assumed that the rest of the day was quiet. This enabled the calculation of Lep’d measurements ranging from 76 dB (A) and 85 dB (A) with a mean personal daily exposure of 80dB (A). The results showed that four (57%) of the instructors music levels were above the first action value in the Noise at Work Regs 2006 and two of those over the second action value. Despite the remaining results recording values below the first action value, it must be noted that they still achieved a Lep’d no lower than 77 dB (A). In relation to gender it was not possible to distinguish a trend in the results due to the small sample size that only included two female instructors. The instructors that spent less than 10 hours a week instructing fitness classes to aerobics recorded a mean Lep’d of 77dB (A). Instructors teaching classes over hours a week recorded a mean Lep’d of 81.6 dB (A). A particular concern was of one instructor who was instructing classes to music for more than 35 hours per week, 6 days a week who recorded a Lep’d of 84 dB(A), this instructor also thought that the level of music being used in their class was not loud. Similarly, three other instructors whose Lep’d was above the first action value within the Control of Noise at Work Regs 2006, also did not think that level of music being used was loud. The intention to use peak action values to analyse results was not possible due to accidental interference from the instructor to the microphone. This is evidenced by the particularly values of over 141 dB (A). This level of peak action value is not corresponding with noise levels within the fitness class environment. None of the instructors had received training with regard to hearing protection or controlling the noise levels within their classes. However, one instructor was aware of the Control of Noise at Work Regs, but despite this recorded the second highest Lep’d of 84dB (A). The study found that the second highest daily exposure of the instructors was of an instructor over the age of 36, with a Lep’d of 84 dB (A). The mean Lep’d for over 36 years olds was 81 dB (A). This theme continued as the study found that 3 of the 4 highest Lep’d recordings was amongst the 26 – 35 year olds, with a mean Lep’d of 80 dB (A). The 18 – 25 year old instructors recorded the lowest Lep’d of 73.5 dB (A). The results show that the older the instructors, the higher the mean Lep’d. Table 1. Data obtained from questionnaires and recorded measurements from dosimeter. Name Gender Age Years instructing Hours spent instructing Trained in noise regulations Medical problem Noise regs awareness Perception of noise level LEQ Lepd 01 M 26-35 1 year 3 hours No No No About right 90 80 FC/02 M 18 25 3 Years 1 Day 4.5 hours No No No Loud 81 71 FC/03 M 36+ 10 years 3 Days 6 hours No Yes No Quiet 88 78 FC/04 M 26-35 16 years 6 Days 35+ hours No No Yes About right 95 85 FC/05 F 26-35 6 months 2 Days 4.5 hours No No No About right 89 80 FC/06 F 18-25 4 years 3 days 12 hours No No No Loud 85 76 FC/07 M 36+ 2 Years 4 days 10 Hours No No No About right 95 85 MEAN 89 79.5    Graph 1 Graph 2 Graph 3 Chapter Five Discussion 5.1  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Noise exposure The measurements that were measured included noise levels, peak noise levels, and daily exposure levels (Lep’d). This study found that the mean measured noise levels within different fitness classes to be 80 dB (A) based on a working day. This result was not unexpected as other studies have found similar noise levels within fitness classes. Although other studies have included more instructors, and their exposure to noise levels, they have concentrated on the levels of noise within the class alone and not the instructors themselves. This study used personal dosimetry to provide an accurate, life like measurement of noise levels within the classes. It also questionnaire considered the exposure of instructors based on their weekly teaching schedule. It also considered variable factors including age, lifestyle choices and awareness of regulations to determine if an association can be correlated (See appendix). The mean daily noise exposure value found by this study is in breach o f the first action value set out by the Control of Noise Regulations 2005, Regulation 4. The findings clearly highlight an issue of excessive noise levels being used by instructors, however, due to the small convenience population used, it is difficult to generalise findings. The mean daily exposure value found by the study may be an underestimation as it assumes that the rest of the day is quiet. The questionnaire highlighted that many of the instructors taught multiple classes each day, assuming similar noise levels were used in those classes. This is likely to affect the daily noise exposure of instructors resulting in an increased Lep’d. The mean Lep’d found in this study is particularly worrying for instructors who are instructing fitness classes over 10 hours per week. The study found that 3 instructors taught over 10 hours a week. This number of hours teaching at high levels of noise is likely to increase their daily noise exposure value and without intervention, increase the likelihood of Noise Induced Hearing Loss (NIHL). The study confirmed that high levels of noise are being used in fitness classes to motivate participants to the detriment of their hearing. The problem is particularly concerning for instructors who are teaching multiple calluses per week. Due to the likely underestimation, it is likely that in actual fact the daily exposure would be higher and furthermore detrimental and in further breach of regulations. An observation of the study was that instructors that used lots of loud verbal encouragement to participants resulted in higher daily noise exposure values. A study by (May J, 2000) found that Individuals describing loud noise on the job, which required the necessity of shouting to communicate with co-workers, or ringing/ buzzing following work exposures may well be experiencing excessively high levels of noise. Dobie, (1993) states that, the need to shout in order to converse suggests the possibility of a possible hazardous exposure, although hazard is negligible in the 80 -85 dB (A) range. This theory is backed up by (Porter 1993) who states, â€Å"A rule of thumb, however, is that if a person normally has to shout to communicate to workmates, he is at risk of developing noise induced hearing loss†. A point to be considered is the possibility of instructors not playing music as loud as they might normally do because of the awareness of the study and consciousness that loud music may affect their hearing (Hawthorne effect). A further limitation may have been the use of the Dosimeter itself. The design of the dosimeter meant that the microphone often came into contact with the instructor which resulted in high peak values. This was found to be the likely reasoning behind the extremely high peak values which may have also affected the daily exposure value.   The high levels of noise found by the study are not surprising due to the lack of training and awareness of Noise at Work Regulations (Noise Regs). The study found that no instructors had received training and only one instructor was aware of the Noise Regs. The lack of training may be linked to the lack of understanding and under estimation of noise levels they were using in their classes. Nearly all instructors found that the music they were using was at an ‘about right’ level and not be harmful to hearing, despite a mean daily exposure of 80 dB (A). The use of language to estimate noise levels was used due to instructors not understanding decibels and its associated meaning. It was decided this would be a simpler means of estimating noise levels. 5.3   Study limitations The use of dosimetry gave the most life like measuring of noise exposure; however, the microphone was still over 10cm from the ear canal, the point in which noise is processed. The affect of the acoustics of the rooms and its reverberation will also not be taken into account by the dosimeter. The design of the dosimeter prevented recording being taken from any closer than 10cm. This may have resulted in affecting the results. The design of the dosimeter also meant the microphone had to be clipped on the neck area of an instructor’s upper most garments. This led to the microphone rubbing against the neck and jaw of the instructor, resulting in an increased and unreliable peak action value. The dimensions of arenas where measurement were taken varied from small studios to a large gymnasium. For this reason the reverberation attributes of room were not taken into consideration. The range of different rooms used may have an effect on noise levels reaching the dosimeter. However, the use of dosimetry provided the most realistic measurement possible. A more accurate measurement would have been possible if the background noise levels had been recorded and taken into consideration when analysing results, however, this was not always possible due to the quick turn-around of classes which left no time for background noise levels to be recorded. The cross sectional study was straightforward due to its convenience, which allowed correlations to be made from measurements and the questionnaire. Due to time constraints and funding, convenience sampling limited the study to the North Yorkshire and Leeds City area. This meant only a small population could be sampled, meaning it is difficult to regard as representative of the profession. The questionnaire relied upon the instructor answering questions honestly. With this in mind, it is feasible that instructors experienced self awareness, recall bias and time constraints which lead to an inaccurate completion of questionnaire.   Chapter Six Conclusion Conclusion  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   6.1 This study was based on a small, cross sectional empirical method to address the exposure of fitness instructors to their noisy work environment. The study considered the frequency of classes and their duration, contrasting to prior studies mentioned earlier in this dissertation. The study focused on the daily exposure of instructors, unlike the other studies, however, it only focused on the results gathered from one class. This limited results as further speculation would have meant assuming noise levels in other were classes were the same as the measured class, which would bring in the issue of bias. Similarly, it is possible that the weekly exposure could have been calculated based on noise levels recorded, but this again would have required an assumption that all other classes were the taught at the same noise level, which is unlikely due to the varying locations instructors are likely to teach. This assumption would have led to an unrealistic under or over estimation of noise levels. To accurately estimate weekly exposure levels would have meant attending more classes which was not possible in the timeframe of this study. It was also felt that this would have placed too much of a burden on instructors and lead to a lower number of fully participating participants The questionnaire proved reliable due to its short length, however, it was restricted to by its small sample population and the use of convenience sampling which meant it was not possible to generalisation of results. This study has provided an insight into the noise levels that instructors are using within the workplace and considered factors that may influence the levels that are used. Although this study is not representative of the industry sector as a whole, couple with other similar studies that have returned similar results, it provides further evidence that this is an industry that is not being address adequately by the Control of Noise at Work Regulations 2006. It has not only addressed the workplace environment noise but has considered the whole exposure of the instructors and this information would be useful when attempting to develop and implement a hearing conservation programme. Although this study was not able to determine the relative risks and odds ratio for the different risk factors and their statistical significance, it did provide a valuable insight in the role of a fitness instructor and much information for dissemination which would assist in understanding the nature of the risks that instructors face. Again, this would not be representative of that sector; however, with other studies reporting similar high noise levels, it is further evidence that this is an area, which needs to be addressed. The study has also identified that there is a lack of training and perception of noise levels. This study focused solely on the noise levels of amplified music and did not consider noise from equipment, people attending the class or acoustics of the room. The potential for instructors to have experienced bias or self awareness whilst completing the questionnaire has been noted. The margin of error in recording noise measurements has also been considered however has not been clarified to use in conjunction with results. 6.2 Results summary Soderquist (2002) states that NIHL can cause a temporary threshold shift and lead to the decrease in sensitivity, and increase in threshold, which occurs when you are exposed to a long duration of sound that has a level greater than 80 dB. The results from this study found noise levels in fitness classes to range between 81 dB (A) and 95 dB (A), with a mean of 89 dB (A) and personal daily exposure based on one class of between 71 dB (A) and 85 dB (A) with a mean of 80 dB (A). However this result is likely to have been underestimated as mentioned earlier in this chapter. The results showed that four (57%) of the instructors music levels were above the first action value in the Noise at Work Regs 2006 and two of those over the second action value of 82 dB(A). Despite the remaining results recording values below the first action value, it must be noted that they still achieved a Lep’d no lower than 77 dB (A). These instructors are running a risk of suffering from Noise Induced Hearing Loss, which is compounded by the frequency of classes they teach and lack of training and awareness of regulations. Leisure centres were fitness classes take place are allowing breaches of legislation (Control at Noise Regulation 2006) to occur, which is proving detrimental to employees. None of the instructors involved in this study had received training of noise levels. A consequence of this is shown in the majority of instructors believing the noise levels used in their classes was ‘about right’ or ‘quiet’ despite being above the lower action values of the noise regs. Potentially further detrimental is that 71.5% of instructors have hobbies that involve loud music, which is likely to be louder than fitness classes due to thinking that their fitness class didn’t involve loud music. Chapter Seven   Recommendations Recommendation  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   7.1 This study has demonstrated the issue of noise in fitness classes and the need for further research to enable further generalisation of the population. A more extensive population would provide evidence of causality. Performing measurements over a week basis for instructors would also provide more accurate and reliable daily exposure value. Future research may also want to make further correlations using tests to measure symptoms of hearing loss. A further point to take into consideration is to consider acoustics of arenas, the reverberation characteristics of the room and other factors that may increase background noise levels. The study limitation of instructors’ awareness of the study and possible lowering of volume is a difficult problem to address due to ethical reasons. The use of a sound level meter to perform measurements is less intrusive to the instructor, however, will provide less realistic results. A concern highlighted by this study was the lack of training on noise related issues received by instructors. The use of loud music is integral to the instructing of fitness classes; however, it is not being addressed by management in leisure centres.   This study has highlighted the need for training and developing of health surveillance in this sector.   Torre and Howell (1999) found that aerobics instructors often used high levels of music to motivate the class; these levels of music, in combination with the instructor’s encouraging voice at a higher level, may contribute, over time, to recreational noise-induced hearing loss.   Furthermore Clark and Calvert (1991) suggested that the use of music during fitness classes improves the performance of participants, and often noisy environment are necessary for the enjoyment of the activity. This is called the â€Å"social noise phenomenon†. For change in attitudes towards hearing protection and strategies to reduce volumes, first, the above attitude must be overcome. An alternative measure to tackle problems identified in this study is to place more emphasis on the management of leisure centres. Methods may include a contract between management and instructors to not exceed preset volume levels or placing noise level limiting equipment on audio equipment. However, this may be difficult to monitor due the varying background noise levels found in different classes and its number of participants. Management of leisure centres need to consider the risk of Noise Induced Hearing Loss of instructors within its workplace. Identification of typical noise levels will allow for policies and agreements to be put in place to protect its employees from a life changing medical condition. It should also be realised that the use of increasing sound levels to motivate participants during fitness classes may put regular gym-goers, as well as instructors, at an increased risk of NIHL. Reference list Andersson, G., Baguley, D. M., McKenna, L., McFerran, D. (2005). Tinnitus: A multidisciplinary approach. London:Whurr Publishers. Andersson, G., Eriksson, J., Lundh, L. G., Lytkkens, L. (2000). Tinnitus and cognitive interference: A Stroop paradigm study. 104 Biological Research for Nursing 13(1) Journal of Speech, Hearing and Language Research, 43, 1168-1173. Carter, N.L., Murray, N.M., Khan, A., Waugh, R.L. (1984). A longitudinal study of recreational noise and young peoples hearing. Australian Journal of Audiology, 6, 45-53. Cone, J and Hayes S (1985). Environmental Problems/Behavioral Solutions. London: Cambridge University Press. p89. Daniel E. (2007).  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Noise and hearing loss: a review.   Journal of   School Health  Ã‚   77 (5): 225-31 Davies AC, Fortnum HM, Coles RRA et al. Damage to hearing from leisure noise: a review of the literature. Nottingham: Medical Research Council Institute for Hearing Research, University of Nottingham, 1985 Diaz C., Pedrero A. (2006). Sound exposure during daily activities. Applied Acoustics   67: 271-283 Dobie, R A (1993). Medical-legal evaluation of hearing loss. 2nd ed. New York: Van Nostrand Reinhold. p163. European Agency for Safety and Health at Work. (2005).  Ã‚  Ã‚   Hearing loss in the EU-15 General prevalence. European Agency for Safety and Health at Work Howley Franks (2007) Fitness professionals handbook  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Human Kinetics; 5 edition p264 HSE (2005). Likely noise reduction. The Control of Noise at Work Regulations 2005: Guidance on Regulations. Likely noise reduction (278), p78 Jons CM. Occupational hearing loss and vibration induced disorders. Br Med J 1996; 313: 223-226 May, J. (200). Clinical features. Occupational Hearing Loss. 1 (3), p114. Mirbod, S. M., Lanphere, C., Fujita, S., Komura, Y., Inaba, R., Iwata, H. (1994). Noise in aerobic facilities. Industrial Health, 32, 49–55. Mà ¸ller, A.R.; Langguth, B.; DeRidder, D.; Kleinjung, T. (2010). Textbook of Tinnitus. New York: Springer. p302. Palmer, et al. (2001). Occupational exposure to noise and hearing difficulties in Great Britain. HSE Research Report. 1 (Table 5 ), p12. Peters R.J. (2003). The Role of Hearing Protectors in Leisure Noise. Noise and Health 5 (18): 47-55 Porter, MJ. (1993). Sensorineural Hearing Loss. Otorhinolaryngology, Head Neck Surgery. 15 (11), p2864. Soderquist, D (2002). Sensory processes. London: SAGE. p272. WHO. (1997). PREVENTION OF NOISE-INDUCED HEARING LOSS. Available: who.int/pbd/deafness/en/noise.pdf. Last accessed 11th March 2011. William, R (2007). Environmental and Occupational Medicine. 4th ed. Philadelphia: Lippincott Williams Wilkins. p1927. Yarenchuk KL, Kaczor JC. (1999).  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   Noise levels in the health club setting. Ear Nose and Throat Journal 78: 54,57

Character education Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

Character education - Essay Example Character education has been part of educational curriculums since long. Schools have played an essential role in passing on the cultural and ethical values of a society through the generations. It was seen as a moral responsibility of the teachers to involve and impart character education. But trends changes in the second half of the last century and character education completely disappeared from schools. Main reason for this is that teacher’s involvement in character development would infringe the right of the parents. Also the church/state debate added fuel to the argument. Martin Luther King said that â€Å"Intelligence plus character – that is the true goal of education† (Norris et al., 2004). Hence, it becomes the moral responsibility of the teacher to be involved in the character development of the students. And it also makes logical sense as children spend majority of their time in schools interacting with teachers, and hence teachers will have a long lasting impact on the children. Another reason why teachers must take an active part in the development of children character is that there is a decline in the family structure. Due to pressures of the 21st century work environment, majority of the parents are not able to interact with their children as they would desire to. Parents have not been able to share ethical values with the children. This is one of the reasons that youth character has seen a downward trend in the recent years (Ryan, 1993). Therefore it becomes the moral responsibility of the teacher to involve in character development. Research has shown that the learning environment makes an impact and has a positive effect on the social values and in turn the character of a child. That is, students who work in a cooperative learning group develop a character with mutual concern for one another (Johnson et al., 1981). Therefore, teacher is a critical part of the learning environment and hence needs to be actively and consciously

The Virgin Suicides by Jeffrey Eugenides Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

The Virgin Suicides by Jeffrey Eugenides - Essay Example The parents were afraid of the girls’ independence, and showed signs that they wished for Victorian moralities for their daughters, for the parents were also afraid that the girls would capitalize on their budding sexuality. As these fears drove the parents to the drastic measures of virtually imprisoning the girls, and the girls’ suicide was probably a result of this decision, it can be said that the parents fears of letting the girls be independent and to experiment with boys were the key decisions that led to the girls’s suicides. Discussion One of the themes of the novel is the lack of independence of the girls, and the parents’ desperate attempt to subvert any sense of independence that the girls might have had. This is a theme that is found in the book and in life, for much has been written about how women should be weak, and docile, not strong and independent, and this apparently is what motivated the Lisbon parents. According to Simone De Beauvoir (1949) the appearance of femininity is one of docility, futility and weakness, and that â€Å"to please they must abdicate† (De Beauvoir, 1949, p. 353). This is shown by an examination of great novels, such as Little Women, The Last of the Mohicans and The Mill on the Floss. In each of these novels, the tomboyish, independent woman is pushed aside, romantically, by the protagonist boy. According to De Beauvoir, this is proof that passive, servile women are preferred to their independent sisters (De Beauvoir, 1949, p. 352). Alex de Tocqueville felt that women entered confining marriage, and that these women gave up their sense of independence â€Å"It may be said that she has learned by the use of her independence to surrender it without a struggle† (Faludi, 1991, p. 48). Another theme in the book is the tamping down of nascent sexuality. De Beauvoir contends that adolescent girls cope with the changes that are bestowed upon them by becoming the coquette, as they were i n childhood. They accomplish this by doing their makeup and hair, massaging her breasts to make them grow, and studying her smile in the mirror. This awakens an eroticism in the young girl and the young adolescent boy. However, for the adolescent boy, this awakening eroticism is a badge of honor – of â€Å"transcendence and power† (De Beauvoir, 1949, p. 349). For the adolescent girl, this awakening causes the girl to â€Å"retain a cast of shame† (De Beauvoir, 1949, p. 349). In other words, it is perfectly normal for a girl to want to become feminine and use her feminine wiles as she reaches puberty, and this was something that was denied by Mr. and Mrs. Lisbon, especially Mrs. Lisbon. At the same time, acting upon the newfound eroticism is a cause for censure. This is in line with the Lisbon’s parents’ beliefs about their daughters, for any hint of sexuality was extinguished before it could even come into fruition. The Lisbon parents made sure of this by not allowing the girls to go out with boys. There is every indication that the parents in The Virgin Suicides had these antiquated beliefs, that the girls should not have independence and should not realize their sexuality, despite the fact that the novel takes place during the early to mid 1970s. This was an era that was marked by change in the female situation – women were helping to forge anti-discrimination policies and policies regarding equal