The Skills And Knowledge I Learned Through The Course

Introduction The following paper will demonstrate the skills and knowledge I learned through the course. This course had taught me many things in leadership such as management vs leadership, emotional intelligence, team stages of development, situational leadership, servant leadership, and Myers-Brigs Personality assessment tool. Also, while taking this course, I also identified my dependable strengths as well as my areas of weakness. At the beginning, I will talk about my personal definition of leadership. Then, I will summarize my self-evaluation/self-assessment by using MBTI, Big 5, and Emotional Intelligence. I will also talk about one of my area of interest which is Emotional Intelligence. Personal Definition of Leadership As my†¦show more content†¦I’m an introvert which means I usually quiet and focuses on my energy. In sensing, I’m a very detailed person and I usually prefer to taking information with sound and sight. Also, I always make the decision based on the impersonal objective logic. Furthermore, my lifestyle is planned and in an orderly way. Some of the skills that I have are related to the Big 5 that include communication skills and stability under stress skills. My communication skills are related to the extraversion in the Big 5 because I believe that I am good in communication. With good communication skills, I found myself easy to express my feelings and thoughts with others around me. I think it’s better to express my feelings to someone that I feel comfortable with. Also, I like to work in a team and people around me because I think teamwork always bring the positive results. For stability under stress skills, I think it’s related to emotional stability in the Big 5. I feel confident when I’m handling with stress. Also, I always calm myself when dealing with stress or pressure situation. The skills I need to improve and develop on are critical thinking skills because they are really important for my professional career. Critical thinking skill has a big impact on decision making and reflects on the justification of one’s own beliefs and values. Furthermore, critical thinking is crucial for self-reflection which justify and reflect on our values and decision in every life.Show MoreRelatedImproving Knowledge Skills and Abilities678 Words   |  3 PagesReflection paper Improving my knowledge, skills and abilities Throughout the course session I improved my knowledge, skills and abilities as fasr as people relation is concerned by developing a deeper understanding of the roles of Human Resource Management (HRM) in organization, in that, there should be approach for effective HRM. I also realized that Time management skills and organized files are the main key to the HRM functions. I also improved my knowledge by understanding that, HRM are theRead MoreEvaluation Of An Individual s Transition Into The Field Of Psychology1471 Words   |  6 PagesSupervision class, I had little prior knowledge of the different theories that supported the theoretical approaches used for supervising an individual’s transition into the field of psychology. In the duration of this course the instructor and my peers provided feedback and hands-on experiences to gain a better understanding what makes a competent supervisor. Through the course we had been supported, observed, monitored, and evaluated to assure implementation of appropriate skill sets for our futureRead MoreQuality Management : A Broad Range Communication Competencies Essay1249 Words   |  5 Pagesclasses taken at Southwestern were completed online. This initially posed a great challenge for me and forced me out of my comfort zone. Each course required discussions, peer responses, and a papers due weekly. The required weekly discussions and papers helped me out tremendously. The feedback I received from my peers elevated my communication skills and helped me identify areas that needed improvement. Quality managers need to communicate effectively to ensure organizational success. QualityRead MoreReflection Paper1201 Words   |  5 PagesExperience When I first decided to expand my education, it had been so long since I had been to school, and I was very hesitant. I talked at length about my decision with my husband and with his encouragement, decided to enroll but still was not quite sure which degree program to enroll in. I knew that this was something that I had always wanted to do since I obtained my Associates Degree in Nursing, but I did not have the courage, nor did I want to give up the time with my family and children. I secondRead MoreLeadership Styles, Preferences, And Traits1339 Words   |  6 PagesMy time attending Southwestern College has provided me an abundance of knowledge on leadership styles, preferences, and traits. The knowledge I have gained has served to make me a better leader in my organization. My definition of leadership has changed as well. My definition of a leader is one who maintains a positive outlook and possesses great skills at inspiring people to action even when the outcome may seem u nachievable. Leaders need to have the ability to adapt to ever changing situationsRead MoreMy Educational And Career Pathways1573 Words   |  7 Pageslooking back on my knowledge throughout the course. Throughout this course, I have learned abut the work world, and different laws and regulations. I have been able to reflect on skills and work habits, learn more about resumes and cover letters. I have also been fortunate to learn about a key aspect of becoming employed; interviews. One of the major things I have learned and discovered are, my educational and career pathways for the future. In this course, I have learned quite a bit aboutRead MoreThe Field Of Social Work911 Words   |  4 Pagesexperienced an increased awareness of the need to advanced in both educational and professional development. I realize that preparation for this career actually includes a great deal of required coursework and hours of field experience. My fieldwork is central to my learning and s erves as an integrative experience in which I use what was previously learned in class and apply it to my practice experience. I am currently in a very rewarding field study at the Osborne Association, Training to Work Program. TrainingRead MoreReflection On Self Assessment Reflection Paper961 Words   |  4 PagesSelf-Assessment Reflection Paper I have used the feedback to deepen my learning and improved the learning product I submitted by listing and understanding what my instructor have given me through our discussion about the homework assignments. I have taken that information constructively to make sure that the paper I will be submitting is concise and sound conveying the information properly in the APA format making the submitting assignment free from grammatical errors to best of my ability. ForRead MoreThe Changes That I Experienced While Being in the University of Phoenix1561 Words   |  6 PagesUniversity of Phoenix Senior year Introduction This paper will highlighted my personal beliefs that I had before I started at the University of Phoenix. Hence, the paper will be an evolutionary analysis of the changes that have taken place in my beliefs thus my personality after I joined the university. By the help of compilation of this paper, I will be able to learn and document the changes that have taken place in my personality. The paper is divided into three main sections, reflection,Read MoreMy Experience At Nulook Bounce N Party1063 Words   |  5 Pagesexperience. During my internship at Nulook Bounce-n-Party, I completed certain responsibilities and tasks. These tasks strengthened my management skills, multimedia art skills, and my patience with many individuals, and increased my knowledge in the business industry. I engaged myself in various communications through telephone, and physical interactions with clients and employees. I also engaged in playtime with many kids in different age groups. I ensured that all was satisfactory and easygoing with

An Analysis of Asian Gangs Essay - 1714 Words

An Analysis of Asian Gangs Lets say youre by yourself on the subway in New York City. You get on and its not that crowded, theres a bunch of open seats. As you look around, you notice that the car is filled with mainly high school aged kids, mostly boys. On one side there is a spot next to a bunch of African Americans, on the other side its a posse of Asians. Okay, so where are you going to sit? Next to the Asians I bet. What if it was Latinos instead of Blacks, chances are you would still say youd go towards the Asians and shy away from the more typical gang looking kids. When most people think of gangs, they dont really think Asian, its a Black or Hispanic thing right? Well, Asian gangs have been becoming more and†¦show more content†¦Asian gangs are a new phenomenon, yet are quickly becoming more and more common within the United States Asian-Americans have often been stereotyped as the model minority whose values are benign: strong work ethic, low profile, honor students, loyalty of famil y (Sigmund, 1995, p.8). Someone who is quiet, studious, and who plays the violin (Lee, 1992, p.129) preserving the sacred worth of human life, religious faith, community spirit and†¦.to be teachers of tolerance hard work, fiscal responsibility, cooperation and love (Takaki, 1989, p. 474-475). Yet Asian crimes by teens, both individually and in gangs, have been cropping up like weeds†¦.What has gone wrong? (Sigmund, 1995, p.8). There seems to be a huge irony here, when one compares popular views of Asian Americans and their admirable work ethic to the increasing incidences of Asian related youth crimes. Upon a second examination, one may begin to question whether the phenomenon of Asian American crimes actually opposes the model minority work ethic, consider crime as an occupation: if the Asian American work ethic focuses on succeeding in the new world, then crime can not be ruled out as a means of attaining financial success. (Sigmund, 1995) The history of Chinese ga ngs goes back to a mystical religious group formed over three hundred years ago in China. The group, the Triad Society was made up of Buddhist and Taoist priests opposed the Manchu emperor Kang His, who reigned from 1662 to 1723Show MoreRelatedOrganized Crime Group Analysis1527 Words   |  7 PagesOrganized Crime Group Analysis Team A CJA 384 Organized Crime Group Analysis In this paper it was asked of us as a team to give an in-depth historical analysis of an organized crime group. With this class being about organized crime one would think to write about mobsters, but we decided to think outside the box. Even though when thinking of organized crime the first thought is The Italian Mafia and groups of that sort, one has to remember that organized crime comes in many different formsRead MoreGran Torino1704 Words   |  7 Pagespopular culture in the film.   Then, we will provide the conflict management styles we would have employed to bring the same result as the current ending without the bloodshed and a general opinion of the film. Our examination will begin with the analysis of two cultural conflicts within the film.   The first conflict we will examine is between the Catholic Priest, Father Janovich and Walt Kowalski.   This conflict takes place initially in the Church when the Father advised Walt that his wife, DorothyRead MoreFilm Review : Romeo Must Die 1269 Words   |  6 Pagesof Romeo and Juliet, due to the rivaling families and the forbidden love, but the root of the hostility is different. Race seems to be the main proponent of this division. The film begins with Po Sing who is the son of Chu Sing, leader of a chinese gang, Po is in a predominantly african american club, after an altercation, Kai who is Chu Sing’s right hand man intervenes and sends Po home. A fight ensues and the next day Po is found dead. We then meet Han Sing played by actor Jet Li, Han is imprisonedRead MoreThe Culture Of Asian American And Being Labeled As An Ethnic1496 Words   |  6 PagesPreface In this essay, I attempted to lay bare the issues of being an Asian-American and being labeled as an ethnic â€Å"other† in modern America. This label of â€Å"other† causes them to become marginalized and lose their sense of identity, belonging neither to Western culture nor Eastern culture. In order help stop this loss of identity in Asian-Americans, we must tear down the social construct of the â€Å"other† and integrate the different cultures into the melting pot of popular culture. Once we have stoppedRead MoreThe Significance of the Sino-Soviet Confrontation1850 Words   |  7 PagesSoviet Socialist Republics), led by Nikita Khrushchev; ceased their strong ties through the Sino Soviet Split and then confrontation. A critical analysis of the Sino-Soviet split and confrontation will administer a greater understanding of the various alliances that formed around the Asia-Pacific region. This includes the alliance of SEATO (South East Asian Treaty Organisation) , as well those that formed during conflicts between the 1960’s and 1980’s. The two decades, in which the Sino-Soviet relationshipRead MoreThe Role of Law Enforcement in Curbing Gang Violence1041 Words   |  4 Pagesareas is to prevent gang activity. Gang activity is certainly not a new phenomenon, but has been part of human history since Ancient Times (Rome, Greece, the Middle Ages, etc.). In most countries, gang violence patterns the sociological development of society and the evolution of criminal activity - as criminal activity becomes more sophisticated, so do gang activities. While most sociological theories tie gang behavior to youth violence, one can trace a number of changes in gang violence to the wayRead MoreMovie Analysis : Gran Torino1649 Words   |  7 PagesHannah Swartout December 3, 2017 COM 325 Analysis Paper Gran Torino Analysis After losing his wife, Walt Kowalski was left with spoiled children and grandchildren, cigarettes, Pabst Blue Ribbon and his 1972 Gran Torino. Walt was retired from the military after serving in the Korean war. In the beginning of the movie Walt appears to be disgruntled, racist and tough-minded. He was not ecstatic that a Hmong family was moving into his deceased neighbors house. Meanwhile, the Hmong family next doorRead MoreFreedom Writers: Rhetorical Analysis Essay714 Words   |  3 PagesRhetorical Analysis: Freedom Writers The movie â€Å"Freedom Writers† is based on a true story. Hilary Swank as Erin Gruwell plays an inspirational teacher at Wilson High School. She is ready to take on the teaching world as she steps inside Wilson High School for her first day. Her class, varied with teenagers of different ethnic backgrounds, wants nothing more than to just get through the day. African Americans, Latinos, Asians, gang members, and much more are from poor neighborhoods, that all shareRead MoreSymbolic Interactionism, Functional Analysis, and Conflict Theory in the Film, Gran Torino1773 Words   |  7 PagesCLINT EASTWOODS GRAND TORINO 8 Symbolic Interactionism, Functional Analysis and Conflict Theory In Gran Torino Symbolic Interactionism With respect to symbolic interactionism, people build meaning to life through social interaction. People operate the way they do because of their own characterization of situations. Symbolic interactionists appreciate social life through social interactions. From symbolic interactionists point of view, the society is a product of social interactions where peopleRead MoreGrand Torino Essay1089 Words   |  5 Pagesï » ¿ Grand Torino Analysis Cultural Diversity Through Interpersonal Communication Margaret Heinsohn Florida International University Abstract The aim of this paper is to study the interpersonal communication taking place in a cultured shocked neighborhood. The findings of these studies are applied to the film Grand Torino. In addition, this study will discuss the communication styles applied by the characters of the movie. I believe they are essential to understanding

Blood Test Free Essays

How to Quickly and Easily Understand Your Blood Tests Without A Medical Degree The Simplified Patient Reference Guide By Ronald J. Grisanti D. C. We will write a custom essay sample on Blood Test or any similar topic only for you Order Now Limits of Liability/Disclaimer of Warranty The author, Ronald Grisanti and publisher, Busatti Corporation have made their best effort to produce a high quality, informative and helpful book. The author and Publisher make no representation or warranties with respect to the accuracy, applicability, fitness or completeness of the contents of this program. They accept no liability of any kind for any losses or damages caused or alleged to be caused directly or indirectly, from using the information contained in this book. This book is not intended for use as a source of any legal or medical advice. The Publisher wants to stress that the information contained herein may be subject to varying international, federal, state and/or local laws or regulations. The purchaser or reader of this publication assumes responsibility for the use of these materials and information. All information is intended for your general knowledge only and is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment for specific medical conditions. You should seek prompt medical care for any specific health issues and consult your physician before starting a new fitness regimen. How to Quickly and Easily Understand Your Blood Tests Without A Medical Degree Copyright  © 2004 Busatti Corporation All right reserved worldwide Busatti Corporation and Ronald Grisanti own all right, title, and interest in this publication. No part of this book may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form, in whole or in part, or by any means, mechanical or electronic, including photocopying and recording, or by any information storage and retrieval system, or transmitted by email, without permission in writing from the Publisher. 2 About the Author Dr. Ronald Grisanti is a practicing chiropractic physician since 1981. In addition to earning his doctorate in chiropractic medicine, Dr. Grisanti is a Board Certified Chiropractic Orthopedist and Board Certified Sports Physician. He is presently completing his Master’s Degree in Nutrition from the University of Bridgeport. In addition, Dr. Grisanti has had extensive training in Functional Diagnostic Medicine and frequently consults with patients suffering with difficult to diagnose health problems like fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome, diabetes, hypertension, depression, anxiety, acid reflux and other challenging health conditions. His admirable success record has earned him the title, â€Å"Your Medical Detective. † Dr. Grisanti has discovered that many health problems can be successful treated once the underlying cause has been found. He is known for his tenacity and strong will to find the root cause of a patient’s health problem. In 2001, with his ever-growing love for research, Dr. Grisanti launched his weekly medical report titled, â€Å"The Grisanti Report† and has written over 400 articles on a host of medical conditions. His weekly reports have gained worldwide attention and are now read in over 40 countries around the world. His list of subscribers has grown into the thousands. Just recently, Dr. Grisanti launched his exclusive membership site called YourMedicalDetective. com. Dr. Grisanti invites you to take a tour of his new site. Go to www. YourMedicalDetective. com 3 This site gives you exclusive, in-depth information and tools to help you and your doctor track down the real cause of your health challenges and solve them. Dr. Grisanti would like to thank you for purchasing his digital book titled â€Å"How to Quickly and Easily Understand Your Blood Tests Without A Medical Degree. † I believe you will benefit from a book that finally makes sense out of your blood chemistry results. Take care and enjoy the book. 4 Table of Contents Glucose Sodium Potassium Magnesium Chloride Blood Urea Nitrogen (BUN) Creatinine BUN/Creatinine Ratio Uric Acid Phosphorus Calcium Albumin Calcium Albumin Ratio Globulin A/G Ratio Alkaline Phosphorus SGOT/AST and SGPT/ALT GGT LDH Total Protein Iron Ferritin Triglycerides Cholesterol LDL Cholesterol HDL Cholesterol Cholesterol/HDL Ratio CO2 White Blood Cell Count Neutrophils Monocytes Lymphocytes Eosinophils Basophils Red Blood Cells Hemoglobin Hematocrit Platelets Reticulocyte Count MCV MCH T3 T4 T7 T3 Update TSH Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR) 5 Comprehensive Blood Test Guide Don’t you just hate when you get your blood test back and you have absolutely no idea what all those numbers mean on a standard chemistry profile? Well now you can use this book to help you understand your test a bit better. GLUCOSE Glucose: This is the chief source of energy for all living organisms. A level greater than 105 in someone who has fasted for 12 hours suggests a diabetic tendency. If this level is elevated even in a non-fasting setting one must be concerned that there is a risk for developing diabetes. This is an incredibly powerful test and can predict diabetes ten years or more before one develops the strict definition of diabetes which is levels greater than 120. Common Causes of Glucose Increase: Diabetes, poor carbohydrate utilization, syndrome X Less Common Causes of Glucose Increase: Cerebral lesions, uremia, pregnancy, intracranial pressure, cushing’s disease, hyperthyroidism, chronic nephritis, infections, first 24 hours after a severe burn, pancreatitis, cerebral lesions, uremia, early hyperpituitarism Common Causes of Glucose Decrease: Fasting Hypoglycemia Clinical Note: LDH will frequently be decreased or in the low normal with Fasting Hypoglycemia, however, LDH will almost ALWAYS be decreased with Reactive Hypoglycemia Less Common Causes of Glucose Decrease: liver damage, pancreatic adenoma, addison’s disease (adrenal insufficiency), starvation, late hypopituitarism Carcinoma of islet tissue Clinical Adult Range: 70-115 mg/dL Optimal Adult Range: 85-100 mg/dL Red Flag Range 250 mg/dL Clinical Notes: Order Glycohemoglobin (HGB A1C) with serum glucose values above 160 and to monitor diabetics under therapy Nutrition Tip: Thiamine Deficiency has been linked to increase in glucose levels 6 SODIUM Sodium: This element plays an important role in salt and water balance in your body. A low level in the blood can be caused by too much water intake, heart failure, or kidney failure. A low level can also be caused by loss of sodium in diarrhea, fluid or vomiting. A high level can be caused by too much intake of salt or by not enough intake of water. Clinical Adult Range: 135-145 Optimal Adult Range: 140-144 Red Flag Range 155 mmol/L Common Causes of Sodium Increase: Nephritis (kidney problems), dehydration, hypercorticoadrenalism (increased adrenal function) Clinical Notes: Water Softeners have been linked to cause an increase in sodium Common Causes of Sodium Decrease: Reduced kidney filtration, diarrhea, Addison’s disease, adrenal hypo-function POTASSIUM Potassium: This element is found primarily inside the cells of the body. Low levels in the blood may indicate severe diarrhea, alcoholism, or excessive use of water pills. Low potassium levels can cause muscle weakness and heart problems. Clinical Adult Range: 3. 5-5. 0 Optimal Adult Range: 4. 0-4. 6 Red Flag Range 6. mmol/L Common Causes of Potassium Increase: Adrenal hypo-function, cortisol resistance, acidosis, ongoing tissue destruction Common Causes of Potassium Decrease: Diarrhea, diuretic use, kidney problems, adrenal hyperfunction Less Common Causes of Potassium Decrease: Anemia, overdosage of testosterone, hereditary periodic paralysis, hypertension Nutrition Tip: Excessive licorice consumption has been linked to lower potassium levels 7 MAGNESIUM Magnesium: This important element is found in the arteries, heart, bone, muscles, nerves, teeth. Clinical Adult Range: 1. 7-2. 4 Optimal Adult Range: 2. 2-2. 6 Red Flag Range 1. 6 mg/dL Common Causes of Creatinine Increase: Kidney Problems, Gout Clinical Note: If Creatinine is 1. or higher in a male over the age of 40, Prostate Hypertrophy MUST be ruled out Less Common Causes of Creatinine Increase: Renal Hypertension, uncontrolled diabetes, congestive heart failure, urinary tract infection, dehydration Clinical Note: Suspect early nephritis ( kidney disease) if creatinine is between 2-4 mg/dL. Suspect severe nephritis is creatinine is between 4-35 mg/dL Common Causes of Creatinine Decrease: Amyotonia congenita BUN/CREATININE RATIO BUN/Creatinine Ratio: increased values may indicate catabolic st ates, dehydration, circulatory failure leading to fall in renal blood flow, congestive heart failure, acute and chronic renal (kidney) failure, urinary tract obstruction, prostatic enlargement, high protein diet. Decreased values may indicate overhydration, low protein/high carbohydrate diet, pregnancy Clinical Adult Range: 6-10 Optimal Adult Range: 10-16 Red Flag Range 30 Common Causes of BUN/Creatinine Ratio Increase: Kidney problems Less Common Causes of BUN/Creatinine Ratio Increase: Catabolic states, prostatic hypertrophy, high protein diet, dehydration, shock Common Causes of BUN/Creatinine Ratio Decrease: Low protein/high carbohydrate diet, pregnancy 10 URIC ACID Uric Acid: Uric acid is the end product purine metabolism. High levels are seen in gout, infections, high protein diets, and kidney disease. Low levels generally indicate protein and molybdenum (trace mineral) deficiency, liver damage or an overly acid kidney. Clinical Female Range: 2. 4-6. 0 mg/dL Clinical Male Range: 3. 4-7. 0 mg/dL Optimal Female Range: 3. 0-5. 5 mg/dL Optimal Male Adult Range: 3. 5-5. 9 mg/dL Red Flag Range 9. mg/dL Common Causes of Uric Acid Increase: Gout, kidney problems, arteriosclerosis, arthritis Les s Common Causes of Uric Acid Increase: Metallic poisoning (mercury, lead), intestinal obstruction, leukemia, polycythemia, malignant tumors, drug diuretics Common Causes of Uric Acid Decrease: Chronic B-12 or folate anemia, pregnancy Less Common Causes of Uric Acid Increase: Salicylate and atrophine therapy Nutrition Tip: If the uric acid is low with a normal MCV and MCH, a molybdenum deficiency may be present PHOSPHORUS Phosphorus: Phosphorus is closely associated with calcium in bone development. Therefore most of the phosphate in the body is found in the bones. But the phosphorus level in the blood is very important for muscle and nerve function. Very low levels of phosphorus in the blood can be associated with starvation or malnutrition and this can lead to muscle weakness. High levels in the blood are usually associated with kidney disease. However the blood must be drawn carefully as improper handling may falsely increase the reading. Clinical Adult Range: 2. 5-4. 5 Optimal Adult Range: 3. 2-3. 9 Red Flag Range 5. 0 mg/dL Common Causes of Phosphorus Increase: Parathyroid dysfunction, kidney dysfunction, excessive phosphoric acid in soft drinks. Important Fact: Children will have an increase in Phosphorus due to normal bone growth. In addition, people with fractures will usually reveal an increase. Less Common Causes of Phosphorus Increase: Bone tumors, edema, ovarian hyper-function, diabetes, excess intake of vitamin D Common Causes of Phosphorus Decrease: Parathyroid Hyper-function, osteomalacia, rickets 11 Less Common Causes of Phosphorus Decrease: Diabetes, liver dysfunction, protein malnutrition, neurofibromatosis, myxedema Nutrition Tip: Phosphorus is frequently decreased with diets high in refined sugars Clinical Note: Suspect Vitamin D deficiency with low levels of calcium, phosphorus and increased levels of alkaline phosphorus Clinical Note: Phosphorus is a general indicator of digestive function. Consider hypochlorhydria when phosphorus is below 3. 0 and total serum globulin is greater than 3. 0 or less than 2. 4 CALCIUM Calcium: Calcium is the most abundant mineral in the body. It is involved in bone metabolism, protein absorption, fat transfer, muscular contraction, transmission of nerve impulses, blood clotting, and heart function. It is highly sensitive to elements such as magnesium, iron, and phosphorous as well as hormonal activity, vitamin D levels, CO2 levels and many drugs. Diet, or even the presence of calcium in the diet has a lot to do with â€Å"calcium balance† – how much calcium you take in and how much you lose from your body. Clinical Adult Range: 8. 5-10. 8 Optimal Adult Range: 9. 7-10. 1 Red Flag Range 12. 0 mg/dL Common Causes of Calcium Increase: Hyperparathyroidism Less Common Causes of Calcium Increase: Tumor of the thyroid, hypervitaminosis (excess Vitamin D), multiple myeloma, neurfibromatosis, osteoporosis, ovarian hypo-function, adrenal hypo-function Clinical Note: Serum protein influences calcium levels. Calcium goes up with increased protein and goes down with decreased protein Common Causes of Calcium Decrease: Hypoparathyroidism, pregnancy, hypochlorhydria, kidney dysfunction Less Common Causes of Calcium Decrease: Vitamin D deficiency, diarrhea, celiac disease, protein malnutrition, chemical/heavy metal toxicity, HPA-axis dysfunction Clinical Fact: Poor intestinal fat absorption may be suspected with low levels of calcium, bilirubin and phosphorus Nutrition Note: Pancreatic enzyme deficiency may be suspected with low levels of calcium, triglycerides and increased levels of LDH 12 Clinical Note: Circadin rhythm abnormality should be a primary consideration with calcium levels either above or below normal ALBUMIN Albumin: The most abundant protein in the blood, it is made in the liver and is an antioxidant that protects your tissues from free radicals. It binds waste products, toxins and dangerous drugs that might damage the body. Is also is a major buffer in the body and plays a role in controlling the precise amount of water in our tissues. It serves to transport vitamins, minerals and hormones. Lower levels are seen in poor diets, diarrhea, fever, infections, liver disease, kidney disease, third-degree burns, edemas or hypocalcemia. Clinical Adult Range: 3. 0-5. 5 Optimal Adult Range: 4. 0-4. 4 Red Flag Range 90U/L Common Causes of GGT Increase: Biliary obstruction, alcoholism, cholangitis/cholecystitis (bile duct and gall bladder inflammation) Clinical Note: If GGT is greater than 150 U/L with a serum bilirubin of over 2. 8 mg/dL, strongly suspect biliary obstruction. Seek immediate medical attention Clinical Note: If GGT values are five times igher than the clinical range suspect pancreatitis Less Common Causes of GGT Increase: Brucellosis, hepatitis, mononucleosis, bacterial and viral infection, malignancy, congestive heart failure biliary. Nutrition Note: Low levels of GGT may indicate a B-6 deficiency. Additional Clinical Notes: Food allergy/sensitivity is a very common finding with biliary dysfunction LDH Lactate Dehydrogenase (LDH): LDH is an enzyme found in all tissues in the body. A high level in the blood can result from a number of different diseases such as hepatitis, anemia etc. Also, slightly elevated levels in the blood are common and usually do not indicate disease. The most common sources of LDH are the heart, liver, muscles, and red blood cells. Clinical Adult Range: 60-225U/L Optimal Adult Range: 140-200U/L Red Flag Range ;250U/L Common Causes of LDH Increase: Liver/biliary dysfunction, pulmonary embolism, myocardial infarction, tissue inflammation, tissue destruction, malignancy anywhere in the body, several types of anemias Clinical Note: LDH will frequently increase with low thyroid function Clinical Note: LDH is frequently increased with birth control usage 16 Nutrition Note: Decrease LDH may indicate reactive hypoglycemia. (Check glucose) TOTAL PROTEIN Total Protein: This is a measure of the total amount of protein in your blood. Total protein is the combination of albumin and total globulin and is affected by the albumin and total globulin. A low or high total protein does not indicate a specific disease, but it does indicate that some additional tests may be required to determine if there is a problem. Clinical Adult Range: 6. 0-8. 5g/dL Optimal Adult Range: 7. 1-7. 6g/dL Red Flag Range 8. g/dL Common Causes of Prote in Increase: Dehydration, â€Å"early† carcinoma, multiple myeloma (should be correlated with serum protein electrophoresis) Less Common Causes of Protein Increase: malignancy, diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis Common Causes of Protein Decrease: Protein malnutrition, digestive inflammation (colitis, gastritis) Less Common Causes of Protein Decrease: hypothyroidism, leukemia, adrenal hyper-function, congestive heart failure Nutrition Note: If protein and calcium are found to be on the low side of the optimal range suspect poor protein absorption. Additional Nutrition Notes: Decreased protein, cholesterol and SGPT may indicate fatty liver congestion IRON Iron: The body must have iron to make hemoglobin and to help transfer oxygen to the muscle. If the body is low in iron, all body cells, particularly muscles in adults and brain cells in children, do not function up to par. If this test is low you should consider getting a Ferritin test, especially if you are a female who still has menstrual cycles. Clinical Adult Range: 40-150ug/ml Optimal Adult Range: 50-100ug/ml Red Flag Range 200ug/ml Common Causes of Iron Increase: Hemochromomatosis, liver dysfunction, iron therapy, pernicious and hemolytic anemia Less Common Causes of Iron Increase: cooking with iron utensils 17 Common Causes of Iron Decrease: Pathologic bleeding (especially in geriatric population), iron deficiency anemia Less Common Causes of Protein Decrease: chronic infections, kidney and liver problems Nutrition Note: Increased iron with decreased hemocrit (HCT) suggests intrinsic factor deficiency Clinical Notes: An iron evaluation is not complete without ordering Ferritin (see below) FERRITIN Ferritin: This test is considered the â€Å"gold standard† in documenting iron deficiency anemia. Low levels below 25 indicate a need for iron. High levels may an inflammatory disorder, infections, rheumatoid arthritis, chronic kidney disease Clinical Male Adult Range: 33-236ng/mL Clinical Female Adult Range (before menopause): 11-122ng/mL Clinical Female Adult Range (after menopause): 12-263ng/mL Optimal Male Adult Range: 20-200ng/mL Optimal Female Adult Range (before menopause): 10-110ng/mL Optimal Female Adult Range(after menopause): 20-200ng/mL Red Flag Range 500ng/mL Common Causes of Ferritin Increase: Iron overload, hemochromatosis Less Common Causes of Ferritin Increase: inflammation, liver disease, rheumatoid arthritis Common Causes of Ferritin Decrease: Iron deficiency nemia Less Common Causes of Ferritin Decrease: Free radical pathology Clinical Notes: Serum ferritin greater than 1000 suspect hemochromatosis Clinical Notes: Iron overload and/or hemochromatosis are silent and can result in cirrhosis of the liver, bacterial infections, dementia, arteriosclerosis, diabetes and stroke Nutrition Note: Doctors specializing in chelation have found a correlation with increased iron and arteriosclerosis. TRIGLYCERIDES Triglycerides: These are fats used as fuel by the body, and as an energy source for metabolism. Increased levels are almost always a sign of too much carbohydrate intake and hyperlipidism. Decreased levels are seen in hyperthyroidism, malnutrition and malabsorption. 18 Clinical Adult Range: 50-150mg/dL Optimal Adult Range: 70-110mg/dL Red Flag Range 350mg/dL Common Causes of Triglycerides Increase: Hyperlipidism, diabetes, alcoholism Less Common Causes of Triglycerides Increase: Hypothyroidism, early stages of fatty liver Common Causes of Triglycerides Decrease: chemical/heavy metal overload, liver dysfunction, hyper thyroid function Clinical Notes: Resistive exercise training has been found to be effective in lowering elevated triglycerides CHOLESTEROL Cholesterol: Group of fats vital to cell membranes, nerve fibers and bile salts, and a necessary precursor for the sex hormones. High levels indicate diet high in carbohydrates/sugars. Low levels indicate low fat diet, malabsorption, anemia, liver disorders, carbohydrate sensitivity. Cholesterol values below 140 are considered one of the four OMINOUS signs. Clinical Adult Range: 120-200mg/dL Optimal Adult Range: 150-180mg/dL Red Flag Range 400mg/dL Common Causes of Cholesterol Increase: Early stages of diabetes, fatty liver, arteriosclerosis, hypothyroidism Less Common Causes of Cholesterol Increase: biliary obstruction, multiple sclerosis, pregnancy Common Causes of Cholesterol Decrease: Liver dysfunction, chemical/heavy metal overload, hyperthyroidism, viral hepatitis, free radical pathology Nutrition Note: Increased cholesterol levels have been found to be lowered y the amino acid methionine Clinical Notes: Cholesterol level below 130 is considered an Ominous sign Clinical Notes: If cholesterol is above 220 with a SGPT below 10 suspect liver congestion/fatty liver LDL CHOLESTEROL LDL Cholesterol: LDL is the cholesterol rich remnants of the lipid transport vehicl e VLDL (very-low density lipoproteins) there have been many studies to correlate the association between high levels of LDL and arterial arteriosclerosis. 19 Clinical Adult Range: 50mg/dL Clinical Adult Female Range: ;55mg/dL Optimal Adult Male Range: ;55mg/dL Optimal Adult Male Range: ;60mg/dL Red Flag Range 3. 0) may indicate intestinal parasites LYMPHOCYTES Lymphocytes: elevated in acute and chronic infections. Decreased in viral infection and immune deficiency Clinical Adult Range: 20-40 percent of total WBC Optimal Adult Range: 25-40 percent of total WBC Red Flag Range 55 percent of total WBC 22 Common Causes of Lymphocytes Increase: Chronic viral or bacterial infection, Childhood diseases (measles, mumps, chicken-pox, rubella, etc. ), HIV, Hepatitis Less Common Causes of Lymphocytes Increase: Chemical/heavy metal toxicity Common Causes of Lymphocytes Decrease: Active infections Clinical Notes: Suspect a viral infections when the lymphocytes increase to a point that either equal or exceeds the neutrophil level EOSINOPHILS Eosinophils: Elevated in allergic conditions, skin diseases, parasitic diseases Clinical Adult Range: 0-7 percent of total WBC Optimal Adult Range: 0-3 percent of total WBC Red Flag Range 55 percent of total WBC Common Causes of Eosinophils Increase: Allergic condition (asthma), food sensitivities, parasitic infection Less Common Causes of Eosinophils Increase: Chemical/heavy metal toxicity, Hodgkin’s disease, ovarian and bone tumors BASOPHILS Basophils: Elevated in Infections Clinical Adult Range: 0-2 percent of total WBC Optimal Adult Range: 0-1 percent of total WBC Red Flag Range 2. 0% Common Causes of Reticulocyte Count Increase: Internal bleeding Common Causes of Reticulocyte Count Decrease: Vitamin b-12, B-6 and folic acid anemia MCV Mean Corpuscular Volume (MCV) The MCV indicates the volume occupied by the average red blood cell Clinical Adult Range: 81. 0-99. 0cu. microns Optimal Adult Range: 82. 0-89. 9cu. microns Red Flag Range 95. 0cu. microns Common Causes of MCV Count Increase: Vitamin B-12/Folic Acid Anemia Common Causes of MCV Count Decrease: Iron anemia, internal bleeding Clinical Notes: If the MCV is ;89. 9 and the MCH is ;31. 9, suspect Vitamin B-12 or folic anemia. This should be confirmed with a serum or urinary methylmalonic (vitamin B-12) and a serum or urinary homocysteine (folic acid and vitamin B-6) Clinical Notes: If iron, ferritin are normal and MCV, MCH, Hemoglobin and Hematocrit are all decreased, suspect a toxic metal body burden MCH Mean Corpuscular Hemoglobin (MCH) The MCV indicates the volume occupied by the average red blood cell Clinical Adult Range: 26. 0-33. 0micro-micro grams Optimal Adult Range: 27. 0-31. 9micro-micro grams Red Flag Range 34. 0micro-micro grams Common Causes of MCV Count Increase: Vitamin B-12/Folic Acid Anemia Common Causes of MCV Count Decrease: Iron anemia, internal bleeding 26 Clinical Notes: If the MCV is ;89. 9 and the MCH is ;31. 9, suspect Vitamin B-12 or folic anemia. This should be confirmed with a serum or urinary methylmalonic (vitamin B-12) and a serum or urinary homocysteine (folic acid and vitamin B-6) Clinical Notes: If iron, ferritin are normal and MCV, MCH, Hemoglobin and Hematocrit are all decreased, suspect a toxic metal body burden T3 T3 (Tri-Iodothyronine): T-3 is a thyroid hormone produced mainly from the peripheral conversion of thyroxine (T-4) Clinical Adult Range: 22-33% Optimal Adult Range: 26-30% Common Causes of T3 Increase: Hyperthyroidism Common Causes of T3 Decrease: Hypothyroidism T4 T-4 (Tetra-Iodothyronine): T-4 is the major hormone secreted by the thyroid gland. Clinical Adult Range: 4. 0-12. 0mcg/dL Optimal Adult Range: 7. 0-8. 5mcg/dL Common Causes of T4 Increase: Hyperthyroidism Common Causes of T3 Decrease: Hypothyroidism, anterior pituitary hypofunction T7 T7 (FTI-Free Thyroxine Index) FTI is an estimate, calculated from T-4 and T-3 uptake. Clinical Adult Range: 4. 0-12. 0mcg/dL Optimal Adult Range: 7. 0-8. 5mcg/dL Common Causes of T7 Increase: See T-3 uptake Common Causes of T3 Decrease: See T-3 uptake T-3 UPTAKE T-3 Uptake T-3 uptake measures the unsaturated binding sites on the thyroid bindng proteins 27 Clinical Adult Range: 22-36% Optimal Adult Range: 27-37% Red Flag Range 39 percent of uptake Common Causes of T-3 Uptake Increase: Thyroid hyperfunction Less Common Causes of T-3 Uptake Increase: Kidney dysfunction, salicylates toxicity and protein malnutrition Common Causes of T3 Decrease: Thyroid hypo-function TSH TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone): is used to confirm or rule out suspected hypothyroidism when T3, T4, T7 are essentially normal and clinical signs suggest hypothyroidism Clinical Adult Range: 0. 4-4. 4mlU/L Optimal Adult Range: 2. 0-4. 0mlU/L Red Flag Range 10. 0mlU/L Common Causes of TSH Increase: Thyroid hypofunction Less Common Causes of TSH Increase: liver dysfunction Common Causes of TSH Decrease: Thyroid hyper-function, anterior hypofunction Clinical Notes: The axillary temperature (underarm) will frequently be How to cite Blood Test, Papers

Paradise Lost By Milton Essay Example For Students

Paradise Lost By Milton Essay Paradise Lost Milton writes Paradise Lost in the tradition of a classic epicpoem. All epic poems contain some common features. Milton follows this outlinewith great precision and style. His poem uses the guidelines of an epic poem andelaborates upon them to make his poem one of the most popular epics written. Inhis poem, Milton uses the key points of an epic poem when he traditionallyinvokes a muse to speak through him, includes great deeds of valor, longspeeches, and a list of the protagonists Milton follows the tradition of epicpoetry when he asks a muse to speak through him. It is clear that for Milton itis the poets submission to the voice of his muse, to divine inspiration, whichultimately distinguishes the soaring creation of Paradise Lost from an insultingspeculation of what happens in the Garden of Eden. Milton does not, however,present the hymn of a heavenly muse as his only defense against presuming toomuch. Through the book, he remains sensitive to the relationship between himselfas poet and his center of attention. While he insists on the honest intentionsof what he undertakes, he never neglects to expose the satanic aspect of hispoetic posture. In this way Milton differs a slightly from a traditional epic. Instead of speaking through Milton, the muse is more of a second person thatinspires Milton. Never the less, Paradise Lost still follows the outline of acustomary epic poem. Another part of a traditional epic poem is that the heromust perform great deeds of valor to defeat the villain. Milton wants hisreaders to be forced to face the problem of Satan seeming invincible. Satan is,after all, an angel. He is a mighty angel that is removed from Heaven. In orderfor us to see the power of God, it is necessary that Satan also be powerful. Itis important that Satan, a parody of God, is viewed as an eloquent, bold being;one that possesses superhuman strength, extraordinary martial prowess, andfortitude so that he can be a foil to show how great God is. In order for God tovanquish and control this awesome being, his characteristics must exceed thecharacteristics of Satan. Therefore, it emphasizes the great valor God possessesto successfully defeat Satan in their battle. One of the last charact eristicsthat this poem demonstrates that are typical of an epic poem is the long list ofthe protagonists that the plot involves accompanied by long speeches by the maincharacters. Milton dedicates a large portion of the first book of the series toa catalogue of the fallen angels. The numbers of angels that are listed are usedto give the reader the notion of being overwhelmed by the mass number ofvillains. He also provides extended formal speeches by the main characters. Itis on the basis of the eloquence and power of those speeches that much of thepersonality of the characters is shown. This listing of villains and long,profound speeches verifies that this poem fits every description of an epicpoem. When Milton writes Paradise Lost he uses a general outline that willcategorize his poem as an epic poem. He elaborates on the generalcharacteristics of an epic poem including the relationship between the muse andhim. They are shown as two separate people with the muse as the higher being . Obviously, in spite of some adjustments and alterations, Milton undeniably usesclassical epic traits. Milton builds his epic out of views of the past and usesevery feature of epic poetry that can possibly be used.

Typography and Formal Recommendation Report free essay sample

Given information on a technology or business-related issue presented in a case study, evaluate and integrate outside research to create a well-organized and documented formal analytical report or proposal using at least six sources, including books, articles, interviews with subject matter experts, and websites or databases, and prepare a set of presentation slides to accompany the proposal. -8- to 10-page Formal Recommendation Report Topic: Directions: You may choose any of the topics below for your Course Project— 1 The company that you work for does not have a website and is not taking advantage of the many Internet marketing opportunities that are available today (the use of social media sites for companies, pay-per-click advertising on search engines, article marketing, etc. ). You decide to do some research about the importance of using the Internet to maximize your company’s exposure and marketing plan, and then write a proposal to the CEO outlining the benefits and the specific strategies you recommend based on your research. We will write a custom essay sample on Typography and Formal Recommendation Report or any similar topic specifically for you Do Not WasteYour Time HIRE WRITER Only 13.90 / page 2 Write a proposal to your CEO proposing that your company implements a â€Å"going green† program. This proposal should include the benefits for the environment in general and the company itself in terms of corporate image and citizenship. Provide a list of strategies and the costs that might be incurred or saved for each green concept you recommend implementing. Note that there are many green ideas now, from recycling bins to allowing employees to work from home. It’s up to you to decide which works for the organization (imagined or real). 3 Your company is considering hiring a full-time technical writer. There is opposition from some management folks who feel that a technical writer is not needed†¦everyone can write, right? It’s your job to research and write a proposal outlining the benefits of hiring a professional to write documents for your company, rather than leaving it up to â€Å"just anyone. † Beyond writing documentation, reports, and proposals, make sure to cover the tasks that many technical writers are capable of as well: website management, training programs, marketing and advertising, and so on. 4 Your company has recently expanded and the old accounting software in place is no longer capable of handling the tasks at hand. It’s your job to research the various accounting software programs currently on the market (at least two) and make a recommendation. Variation: Whatever type of software your company might need†¦just make it business-related. For example, software for graphic design, website development, content management, etc. 5 Employee turnover rates are high for many organizations, and you have noticed that the company you work for is no different. Research what other organizations are doing to hire and retain good employees in order to combat the high employee turnover rate. Use this research to make recommendations to the management of your organization. Audience: The audience for this report is an industry decision maker, such as your supervisor or CEO, or a public policymaker, such as a politician or bureaucrat, who could act upon your recommendations or proposal. You will identify this decision maker in the Course Project topic proposal . Research: Six academic and/or professional research sources are required. Your research must consist of a variety of electronic sources (websites, databases, media) and traditional sources (books, journals, magazines). All sources must be cited using the American Psychological Association (APA) documentation system. Final Report/Proposal Details As noted above, the final product will consist of an 8- to 10-page report or proposal on a technical or business topic from the approved list. The final document includes the following. Title page (one page) Cover letter (one page, one or two paragraphs, single spaced) Table of contents including list of illustrations (one page) Executive summary (one page, two or three paragraphs, single spaced) Body of report or proposal using the following required sections. Introduction Discussion sections Conclusions and Recommendations Six research sources provided on APA formatted References page (one page). All references included on the Reference page must be cited in-text. Technical Illustration or visual such as a chart, graph, or image that you have created or have located via academic research. This should be incorporate within the main body of the report and be mentioned in-text. Formatting Elements Single spacing (or 1. 15), double spacing between sections and/or paragraphs 12-point font size for main body of writing Arial, Calibri, Cambria, or Times New Roman font type Use of headings and subheadings when appropriate Paragraph length of approximately five to seven sentences Standard 1† margins Ragged right justification Multimedia PowerPoint Presentation Details You will present your report in a multimedia technical briefing †¦eight to 10 slides, including introduction slide with the report title and your name; two to three slides per each main point of report; a memorable conclusion slide; use of full sentence, meaningful headings, and short words or phrases within the body of the slides; a minimum of two meaningful visuals; use of a business-appropriate design template; and 5–7 minutes of narration.

IRWD essays

IRWD essays IRWD RECLAMATION PLANT, IRVINE, CALIFORNIA At the Irvine Ranch Water Districts Michelson Water Reclamation plant tertiary, treatment is provided to reclaim wastewater. The method converges and expedites the process used by nature to clean water and to biodegrade waste material. Through the use of Primary Clarification, Flow Equalization, Activated Sludge Process, Secondary clarification, Filtration, and Disinfection the IRWD reaches its ultimate goal of distributing reclaimed water. The facility is important to health because the IRWD filters water that is used in our parks which can be dangerous if not properly cleansed. The trip to me was enticing because I was unaware of the many aspects of water treatment and was unsure what exactly water reclamation was. After the field trip I can say I am definitely more knowledgeable and concerned about water reclamation. Clarification is the process by which the water flows to the primary clarifiers which are settling basins where sludge settles to the bottom of the primary clarification tanks. The core treatment occurs in this step in which naturally occurring microbes are used to decompose the organic material in the watershed. After the microbes have completed the job of consuming waste material and removal of nitrogen the water flows to this secondary clarification where a small amount of aluminum sulfate is introduced as the water leaves. Water first enters the plant at the headworks where it receives heavy mechanical screening. Bar rake screens trap large debris and screen wastewater. The water then leaves the headworks and flows into primary clarifiers which are settling basins where the water is left for hours in which most of the soils, called sludge settle at the bottom of the basin. The sludge is then sent out through underground piping to the County Sanita ...

The Important Career Development on organization Research Paper

The Important Career Development on organization - Research Paper Example Individuals should take career development process seriously in order to progress professionally. Moreover, organizations should also consider it important to practice this process to bring out the best from their employees. (Iretire, 2011) illustrate that career development as a ladder towards success which helps every individual achieve his or her objective by following various steps. This process provides guidance to an individual since the start of his/her career beginning right from choosing the right educational institution, subject to organization. The Career Planning covers areas like choosing of an occupation, getting a job, growing in your job, achieving the desiired growth and eventually retiring. (Gutteridge 1986) argue that Career development is one of an integral component of human resource (HR) management in a workplace. Other components consist of company’s design, control, HR planning and evaluation. ... Moreover, employees today are very much concerned about their career than before. As the economy is growing, workers demands are also increasing both in terms of progress and personal growth. Organizations and companies that are not able to meet these needs and demands of their workers face increased employee turnover. Therefore, this research paper will discuss the importance of career development in an organization as it not only helps retain employees but also benefits employees by allowing them to fulfill their career related wants and needs. Various companies today are facing one common problem, i.e. employee retention. They are aware of the fact that replacing employees is a lot more expensive than retaining existing ones. Hiring new employees includes high cost of recruiting and training. High employee turnover not only effects the organization in terms of high cost but also have a negative effect on its effectiveness and efficiency. The most effected organizations are service oriented ones including firefighters and law-enforcement agencies that require highly trained, skilled and competent workforce. Many studies have been conducted to best address this problem and results have shown that career development programs can resolve this issue to a certain extent. Earlier, it was assumed that employee need a straight path to move up the ladder, (Werther & Davis, 1992) cite Career development is not just about moving ahead but is about achieving what is best for his/her career and suits his/her expertise. This will also enable employee to contribute positively in achieving company’s goal and objective. Implementing career development

The importance of the proper way in which to write a research paper Essay

The importance of the proper way in which to write a research paper - Essay Example Experiments and surveys are conducted, with the use of interviews and questionnaires, to seek answers to the research questions and come to conclusion. For example, in the research with research question: how coffee intake affects sleep, the researcher will follow the qualitative approach, going to participants of the study, and conducting interviews, questionnaires, and surveys, to know how caffeine intake is related to sleep. He will not use the quantitative approach, which is best used for hard scientific evaluations, like those in physics, and is based on empirical data that can be used for statistical analysis. Hence, when the aim is to gather general information about a subject matter, like why something happens or what people think about it, qualitative research is used; but, when the researcher has to go for numerical evidence, he uses quantitative approach. The research question also gets modified with each kind of study. The comparison of above mentioned approaches illustrates that it is very important for the researcher to think about the research approach before starting the research, as every approach undergoes entirely different steps. Research questions get modified, even if conclusions remain the

Car robber Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 14250 words

Car robber - Essay Example The car robbers have also turned to highly sophisticated equipments in perpetrating the crime. Financed by members of the society who either buy robbed cars or provide the necessary equipments for the crime, these professional car robbers even develop provisions to smuggle the cars to other countries, especially to East European and African nations, through various shipping companies. Because of the rise in the number of car robberies, car factories are now focused on equipping cars with security machines such as security alarm systems and identification mechanisms. The latter verifies the owner and/or user of the car as the engine starts. Despite these innovations, car thieves continually show adeptness in highly mechanized and electronic knowledge thus beating these security gadgets. In addition, some car robberies occur due to faulty car security systems and the carelessness and negligence of the car owner. All over the world, car robbery has increased in the recent decade because of the demand for cars as a means of transportation. The rising demand is due to the important role that cars perform in the world. Globally, they are considered the first means of transport. Ironically, this demand for cars is another reason for the increase in car theft. Second-hand Japanese- or American-made cars known for their performance are re-built and put out in the market in developing countries. Due to the inexpensiveness and the popularity of such second-hand cars, this kind of car theft has not only provided another source of income for car thieves but also another motive for stealing cars. The Abu Dhabi Emirate is one-sixth of the former Trucial States of the Persian Gulf that was merged in 1971 to form what is now known as the United Arab Emirates or UAE. Abu Dhabi is the capital of the UAE. It has all the federal institutions and ministries in the Abu Dhabi Emirate like the UAE Central Bank, Abu Dhabi Security Exchange and UAE federal ministries

Starbucks Competition and Strategy Analysis

Starbucks Competition and Strategy Analysis Executive Summary As coffee drinkers of all ages and sizes increase around the world, Starbucks amongst fierce rivals continues to experience unsurpassed growth sales. Their upscale coffee outlets that deliver pleasing to the eye dà ©cor and brand uniqueness at locations scattered nationally and internationally, their distinct aromas and scents, Starbucks has been able to differentiate themselves from all competitors. The aforementioned characteristics that is Starbucks, has enabled the coffee retailer to increase profitability, expand globally, and attract new customers. With an estimated 17,000 outlets in approximately 55 countries, Starbucks boasts as the largest coffee outlet chain in the world. In North America alone, Starbucks employs nearly 11,000 full-time and 60,000 part-time employees. Additionally, the chain employs over 7,000 outside its United States borders. Through providing top quality coffee beans and distinctive varieties (aforementioned), Starbucks has led the way in revolutionizing the market industry. The chain not specializes in serving coffee, but also teas, juices, pastries of all kinds and now even coffee-flavored ice cream brands that deliver pleasing to the taste and thirst of many loyal, and soon-to-be new customers. Since 1994, Starbucks has enjoyed measurable success through clever mergers and or acquisitions. A few successful ventures include Seattles Best coffee chain now offers a small line of its premium brands on commercial Delta airlines flights and thanks to the ever-increasing Wi-Fi market, Starbucks continues to connect with customers. In 2010, after extensive market surveying, Starbucks introduced three new ice cream coffee-free flavor brands. Starbucks continues to face stiff competition and only through strategic planning hinged upon finding new and creative ways to be innovative will the firm continue to diversify its financial portfolio while enabling its ability to cover liabilities. Introduction Headquartered in Seattle, Washington, Starbucks is an international Corporation (www.Starbucks.com) whose stocks are traded on the NYSE under the SBUX ticker symbol. Starbucks is the largest coffee outlet in the world, with close to seventeen thousand shops in approximately fifty countries or provinces, eleven thousand in America alone, over one thousand in Canada, eight hundred in Japan and seven hundred Coffee Shops in the United Kingdom. Starbucks in 2003 was listed as a Fortune 500 firm, ranked 465. By the end of 2010, they were ranked 241. Background Howard Schultz gained control of Starbucks in 1987. Starbucks was founded by three colleagues in 1971 in Seattle who were inspired by a mutual acquaintance Alfred Peet, an established businessman. By 1980 the company had grown to four locally owned stores that turned a reasonable profit every year. It was in 1981 when Howard Schultz, then Vice President of U.S operations for Swedish Kitchen and Coffeemaker equipment decided to visit Starbucks out of curiosity as to how and why the Starbucks was so successful with selling his companys products. Managerially, Schultz was impressed with the company. After much persistence, Schultz landed his first job with Starbucks as head of marketing and research. Overflowing with ideas for the company, Howard Schultzs biggest inspiration and vision for Starbucks future came in 1983 while on a business trip to Italy and the idea of Espresso Bars came fell upon him. After failing to convince Baldwin for the expansion of business, he initially left Starbucks in 1985 and started the Il Giornale coffee bar chain in 1985 and the coffeehouse was very successful. In 1987 after buying out the former owners Jerry Baldwin and Gordon Bowker, Schultz began to quickly begin to realize his full dream for Starbucks and quickly expanded business operations in Vancouver, British Columbia, and Chicago, Illinois, of the same year. By 1992, Starbucks then a recognized publicly traded company on the stock market had expanded nationally to 165 shops. In 2009, Starbucks succeeded by opening about nine hundred additional shops outside the Continental United States. Mission Statement (Actual per www.starbucks.com, accessed on 20 February 20, 2011) Establish Starbucks as the premier distributor of the best coffee on the planet without compromising principles on quality of growth. Our Coffee It has always been, and will always be, about quality. Were passionate about ethically sourcing the finest coffee beans, roasting them with great care, and improving the lives of people who grow them. We care deeply about all of this; our work is never done.(2, 7) Our Partners Were called partners, because its not just a job, its our passion. Together, we embrace diversity to create a place where each of us can be ourselves. We always treat each other with respect and dignity. And we hold each other to that standard, ensuring the latest technology is implemented for producing superior products to our loyal customers. (4, 8, 9) Our Customers When we are fully engaged, we connect with, laugh with, and uplift the lives of our customers-even if just for a few moments. Sure, it starts with the promise of a perfectly made beverage, but our work goes far beyond that. Its really about human connection. (1) Our Stores When our customers feel this sense of belonging, our stores become a haven, a break from the worries outside, a place where you can meet with friends. Its about enjoyment at the speed of life-sometimes slow and savored, sometimes faster. Always full of humanity. (6) Our Neighborhood Every store is part of a community, and we take our responsibility to be good neighbors seriously. We want to be invited in wherever we do business. We can be a force for positive action-bringing together our partners, customers, and the community to contribute every day. Now we see that our responsibility-and our potential for good-is even larger. The world is looking to Starbucks to set the new standard, yet again. We will lead. (3) Our Shareholders We know that as we deliver in each of these areas, we enjoy the kind of success that rewards our shareholders. We are fully accountable to get each of these elements right so that Starbucks-and everyone it touches-can endure and thrive. (5) Customer Products or services Markets Technology Concern for survival, profitability, growth Philosophy Self-concept Concern for public image Concern for employees Mission Statement Analyzed   I consider this to be a fairly good, and accurate statement although per my rating (based on research), the mission statement lacks two (2) important components: Technology and Concern for employees. The company must evaluate whether it is technologically advanced and even though the companys vision is of concern to its employees, it still should be added to its mission statement. Vision Statement (Actual per www.starbucks.com, accessed on 20 February 20, 2011) To establish Starbucks as the most recognized and respected brand in the world and become a national company with values and guiding principles that employee could be proud of. The vision statement clearly describes the dream or the future of the company that is to be the worlds most well known coffeehouse and also to be the most appreciated and positively graded brand by all levels of people around the world. Finally, the company focuses emphasis in the value of employees and their loyalty, and strives to create a happy work environment. The opportunity for entry of new competitors shows a balance between different firms competing in a market and subsequently, they can be looked upon as a threat to already established firms. One of Starbucks staunchest competitors is McDonalds McCafe which is really catching on globally. Competition is real due to entry level start up costs which can be extremely low and or offered at a bargain price to gain a competitive edge. This probably can explain why Starbucks has recently decided to partner with Burger King which I personally consider a very positive move. Starbucks Competitive Profile Matrix (CPM) is illustrated below and compares the coffee firms internal and external factors, based upon strengths (superior or 4.0), against weaknesses (1.0), against its current, and projected market competition. Used effectively, it will give management clear idea about the firms strengths and weaknesses and aid in plotting a way forward that is healthy and most importantly, profitable. Anything in between can be rated from fair, to average to above average to superior. From the illustration below, Starbucks fares a little above average when compared to Dunkin Donuts, yet well below McDonalds. Competitive Profile Matrix (CPM) In the External Factor Evaluation or EFE, only external factors, that is, opportunities, and threats, are evaluated. From the illustration below, the following info can be drawn: Gourmet coffee consumption tied in to drinkers educational levels. The higher the level of education the more gourmet coffee on average was consumed, by as much as seventy-one percent. Trends showed sixteen percent of U.S. adult population consumed specialty coffee on a daily basis; sixty-three percent only occasionally. The growth in popularity of specialty coffees has increased, as only thirteen percent and fifty-nine percent of people reported daily and occasional consumption, respectively, in 2002. Also, trends over the past ten-years showed consumers requesting more organic coffees which influenced retailers on the growing environment of coffee beans. Consumers are becoming more health conscious and are looking for sweats and snacks that are low in carbohydrates / sugar and calories. International market has a stronger economy and accordingly, consumers would be able to pay premium price for specialty or gourmet coffee. With regards to threats, the 2007-2009 economic recession adversely affected the specialty coffee industry. Recently, trends show consumer concern with nutritional value. Volatility in the stocks and coffee price could impact the purchasing power for the buyers. Smaller competitors are expanding their markets as well as their product line offerings. In conclusion, competitors such as McDonalds and Dunkin Donuts are becoming stronger in offering specialty coffee along with other complimentary products. This may explain why SBUX has recently announced a partnership with Burger King who has long lagged behind McDonalds, especially in the breakfast arena to start offering Seattles Best coffee products (a subsidiary of Starbucks), in efforts to further close the gap between itself from its the conglomerate that is McDonalds Corporation. External Factor Evaluation (EFE) Matrix Gourmet coffee consumption rose with the drinkers educational level. Those who finished college bought forty-nine percent more gourmet coffee on average, and those with some postgraduate education bought seventy-one percent more Sixteen percent of the U.S. adult population consumed specialty coffee on a daily basis, whereas sixty-three percent indulged occasionally The growth in popularity of specialty coffees has increased, as only thirteen percent and fifty-nine percent of people reported daily and occasional consumption, respectively, in 2002 Another trend that has surfaced in the past decade has been consumer requests for organic coffees, and more emphasis was placed by retailers on the growing environment of the beans Consumers are becoming more health conscious and are looking for sweats and snacks that are low in carbs / sugar and calorie International market has a stronger economy and accordingly, consumers would be able to pay premium price for specialty or gourmet coffee Threats The 2007-2009 economic recession adversely affected the specialty coffee industry Recent trends shows consumers are concerned about the nutritional value of coffee products and are demanding nutritional info be posted on the products even in retail outlets. Volatility in the stocks and coffee price could impact the purchasing power for the buyers Smaller competitors are expanding their markets as well as their product line offerings Competitors such as McDonalds and Dunkin Donuts are becoming stronger in offering specialty coffee along with other complementary products Internal Factor Evaluation (IFE) Matrix Internal Factor Evaluation (IFE) Matrix is a summary step in conducting an internal strategic-management audit used to evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of a business, and provide a foundation for identifying and evaluating relationships founded upon those areas. Looking at key Internal Factors, Starbucks most advantageous opportunities lie in expansion in ever-growing Markets like Brazil, Russia, India and China or the BRICs as they are commonly referred. Of note, Starbucks doesnt appear to show any interest in marketing its products through advertisings as much as focusing on the quality of its coffee and that power alone to retain, and attract new customers. Key Internal Factors Strengths Starbucks expects to add approximately 20 net new stores to its global store base in fiscal 2009 by closing approximately 425 company-operated stores in the United States and adding of approximately 60 company-operated stores internationally The company plans to open approximately 65 net new licensed stores in the United States and approximately 320 net new licensed stores internationally Capital expenditures for fiscal 2009 are expected to remain unchanged, at approximately $600 million. Licensing revenues increased primarily due to higher product sales and royalty revenues as a result of opening 438 new licensed retail stores in the last 12 month Strong marketing and promotional campaign such as product placement in major TV series Starbucks also provides electrical outlets and, in some stores, wireless access, for customers who might need to use their MP3 players or laptop computers Starbucks products can be found in convenience stores, grocery stores, department stores, movie theaters, businesses, schools, and even airports Starbucks is rated by Fortune as one of the best top 10 places to work Starbucks also encourages the use of its Web site where customers are able to register their Starbucks cards, receive nutritional information about Starbucks products, shop online, search for careers, and much more Weaknesses 47 percent drop in earnings in one year (2008) For the 26 weeks ending March 2009, Starbucks revenues decreased 7 percent to $4.95 billion and net income decreased 72 percent to $89.3 million Moodys Investors Service recently downgraded Starbucks credit ratings The U.S. company operated retail business continued deteriorating trends For the second quarter of fiscal 2009, U.S. total net revenues were $1.8 billion, a decline of $131.5 million, or 6.8 percent, due to decreased revenues from company operated retail stores Many of Starbucks International operations are in early stages of development that require a more extensive support organization relative to the current levels of revenue and operating income in the United States International total net revenues were $433.7 million for the 13 weeks ended March 29, 2009, down $59.7 million, or 12.1 percent, compared with the same period last year, primarily due to the impact of a stronger U.S. dollar relative to the British pound and Canadian dollar Global Consumer Products Group (CPG) total net revenues decreased by 2 percent to $94.8 million for the second quarter of fiscal 2009, due primarily to lower margin on sales of packaged coffee as a result of discounting, as well as lower volume to the trade The Strength-Weaknesses-Opportunities and Threats (SWOT) analysis is an effective to that when used properly, gathers, analyzes, and evaluates information which helps firms identify strategic advantages/disadvantages. SWOT Strategies Opportunities Gourmet coffee consumption rose with the drinkers educational level. Those who finished college bought 49 percent more gourmet coffee on average, and those with some postgraduate education bought 71 percent more Sixteen percent of the U.S. adult population consumed specialty coffee on a daily basis, whereas 63 percent indulged occasionally The growth in popularity of specialty coffees has increased, as only 13 percent and 59 percent of people reported daily and occasional consumption, respectively, in 2002 Another trend that has surfaced in the past decade has been consumer requests for organic coffees, and more emphasis was placed by retailers on the growing environment of the beans Consumers are becoming more health conscious and are looking for sweats and snacks that are low in carbohydrates / sugar and calorie International market has a stronger economy and accordingly, consumers would be able to pay premium price for specialty or gourmet coffee Implement product development by introducing organic coffee and disclosing the nutritional content to the consumers (S1, S2, S3, S5, S6, S7, O1, O2, O3) Continue opening more retail stores overseas where coffee is in demand and market has not been saturated by competitors (S1, S2, S3, S4, S9, O6) Develop new products with better nutritional value (S6, S8, O1, O2, O4, O5) Develop a marketing strategy such as Starbucks Combo by offering combination of gourmet coffee and cookie / cake or 2 for 1 on Tuesdays and Wednesdays when the patrons can purchase coffee on Tuesday and get free refill on Wednesday (W1, W2, W3, O1, O2, O3) Establish joint venture with hotels, airlines, and retailers for having mini-Starbucks locations or for serving premium Starbucks coffee in the hotel rooms or during the flights (W1, W2, W3, W4, W5, O1, O2, O3, O6) Threats The 2007-2009 global recession negatively affected the specialty coffee industry Recent trends have shown that some of the consuming public is concerned about the nutritional value of such products as those offered by the specialty coffee sector and have even challenged the correctness of the labeling and calorie information posted on the products available at retail outlets. Volatility in the stocks and coffee price could impact the purchasing power for the buyers Smaller competitors are expanding their markets as well as their product line offerings Competitors such as McDonalds and Dunkin Donuts are becoming stronger in offering specialty coffee along with other complementary products Implement market penetration strategy by promoting additional licensing retail deals. This minimizes the risks and capital expenditures for Starbucks (S2, S3, S4, S5, T1, T4, T5) Lower prices of popular drinks by $0.50 and promote the price decrease through aggressive advertising (S6, S7, S8, T1, T4) Penetrate market by appealing to a wider variety of consumers (W6, T4, T5) Cutback on some of operating expenses such trying to improve purchasing power and getting better prices from the suppliers and vendors (W4, T4, T5) Create Promotional Strategies Such As Starbucks Combo Or Reduce The Price By $0.50 Per Drink On Popular Drinks Develop New Products With Better Nutritional Value Expand Internationally By Opening Additional 100+ License Retailers Through Joint Ventures Portfolio Analysis: Starbucks BCG Matrix (The Worlds Most Innovative Companies Their creativity goes beyond products to rewiring themselves. Business Week and the Boston Consulting Group rank the best. Accessed and referenced on 20 February 20, 2011 at http://www.businessweek.com/magazine/content/06_17/b3981401.htm) The Boston Consulting Group (BCG) matrix is enhancing a multidivisional firms efforts to formulate strategies. The BCG allows a multi-focused firm to manage its portfolio by examining relative market share position and the industry growth rate each division relative to all other divisions in the organization. The Starbucks BCG matrix below shows four (4) divisions which include Question Marks, Stars, Cash Cows, and Dogs. Quadrant I shows low relatives market position, high growth industry. Cash needs versus cash generation are high and low. Quadrant II or Star Division identifies best long-run opportunities for growth and profitability. Quadrant III or Cash Cows with high relative market share position but compete in a low growth industry and finally, Quadrant IV or Dogs identifies relatively low market share position and compete in a snail or no market growth industry. Starbucks Income Statements shows steady increases between 2003 and 2005. The revenues on the year 2003 were $4,075,000, while $2,191,000 in year 2004, $6,369,000 in year 2005. Also, the firms growth sales rate for 2004 and 2005 was 56.3%. In conclusion, Starbucks were identified in Star division which means its long-run opportunities for the growth and profitability is overall good. Recommendations Starbucks coffees price are much more expensive than other market competitor products because Starbucks purchases the highest quality coffee beans which means and price-war advantage for its competitors in these challenged economic times. Develop series of new coffee, tea and fruit drinks with better nutritional values for health conscious customers. Initially, enter selected market with predatory pricing strategy and then move to larger market. Starbucks is showing signs of change and that the change has started to work. For the first time in eight quarters, the company posted positive earnings. In fact, all US company operated stores reported positive growth in their sales. For the last few years, the company over-expanded by opening too many stores and some too close to each others. Now, they have done an impressive job restructuring itself and returning back to being profitable by closing some stores and slimming down its workforce over the past few years. They further eliminated excessive waste in their operations and have been trying to be leaner in their day to day business processes. Leading the way in technological media, Starbucks innovative nature has enabled capitalization on the social networks like Twitter and Facebook. Additionally, Starbucks even has an iPhone application (accessed at Why Starbucks Has Room to Improve. http://www.minyanville.com/businessmarkets/articles/starbucks-growth-upgrade-profit-price-hikes/1/22/2010/id/26485 20 Feb. 2011.).

Group Think Essay -- Argumentative Persuasive Group Thinking Essays

Group Think This type of dysfunctional operation of an organization has many ways and opportunities for failure. The basic fundamentals of this process are the beginnings of failure as groups seek conformity and unity they sacrifice everything in order to maintain peace within the group. Many times this will take the individuals creative thoughts and ability to voice the creative edge thinking away. In many organizations this is a process that is continually used. It is perceived that management wants the organizations operation or process to run without any type of question or waves. Below are listed eight of the main symptoms of group think as detailed by Janis, I. L & Manns book â€Å"Decision making† Symptoms of Groupthink are divided into three types in which they can manifest themselves: Type I: Overestimations of the group's power and morality Type II: Closed-mindedness Type III: Pressure toward uniformity When broken down the three types of groupthink can be broken farther down to eight ways groupthink causes failure. 1.  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Illusion of invulnerability: Members ignore obvious danger, take extreme risks, and are overly optimistic. 2.  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Collective Rationalization: Members discredit and explain away warnings contrary to group thinking. 3.  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Illusions of Morality: Members believe that their decisions are morally correct ignoring the ethical consequences of their decisions. 4.  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Excessive Stereotyping: The group constructs negative stereotypes of rivals outside the group. 5.  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Pressure for Conformity: Members’ pressure any in a group who expresses arguments against the groups’ stereotypes, illusions, or commitment, viewing such opposition and disloyalty. 6.  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Self-censorship: Members withhold their dissenting views and counter arguments. 7.  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Illusion of Unanimity: Members perceive falsely that everyone agrees with the group decision silence is seen as consent. 8.  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Mindguards: Some members appoint themselves to the role of protecting the group from adverse information that might threaten group compliance. Personal styles are limited by the group with GROUP THINK. Most of the time the individual will not take the chance to buck the system or willing to take the chance of being discredited by the core group if they do not agree with the process and or direction that is being lead. Decision styles are affe... ...ve that the label of Groupthink can be used too loosely. I myself have experienced situations where a Group is too quick to label themselves as sufferers of Groupthink. Although I truly think that Groupthink is a severe problem that exists today, the Challenger being one of the most disastrous of those examples. I believe that we all need to be careful not to be too swift about the use of the Groupthink label. It can be just as negative to a group to label them as wronged in their process when no such error exists as to call them victims of Groupthink. Again the dilemma is that groups need to always be alert to the existence of Groupthink, they also need to not label themselves or other victims of Groupthink unfairly. Although there are many times that Groupthink leads to failure, there are few instances when it works for the food. This is a fine line to walk, but it is most definitely a line that needs to be walked time and time again. Works Cited: Jarvis, Chris. GROUPTHINK Janis, Irving L. Victims Of Groupthink. Houghton Mifflin Company Boston, 1972 Janis, Irving L. Groupthink. Houghton Mifflin Company Boston, 1982 Griffin, Em. Groupthink. McGraw-Hill Inc., 1997

Woody Allen – Annie Hall

Changes Woody Allen’s Annie Hall is a film that depicts the life of a character named Alvy Singer, a comedian who always seems nervous, is full of self-loathing, doesn‘t have a positive perspective on life, had an unhappy childhood and has been divorced twice. He knows he has problems but can’t figure out how to solve them in a dignified way so uses sex as a substitute. By the end of the film however, he shows a significant change in his outlook on life, due mostly to his recent relationship with a woman named Annie Hall.They end their relationship but Alvy learns from it, makes changes in his life, and uses it as a stepping stone into his future. The first moment where he shows change is when he compliments Annie after her first performance at a night club. She thinks she did horribly so he gives her reasons why she wasn’t as bad as she thought which cheers her up. This signifies Alvy turning a bad situation into a good one and shows confidence for the fir st time. Another moment where he shows change is his meeting with Annie in Los Angeles after they have broken up for good.He does things that he is usually reluctant to do: leaving New York City, driving a car, and eating at a health food restaurant. Although it doesn’t end like he hoped, he accepts that they aren’t going to be together any longer and doesn‘t complain, which is his usual response. In addition, he shows growth when he writes a play about his relationship with Annie, which shows their last meeting in L. A. but with an alternate ending with them together; proving that the relationship affected him enough to analyze and critique it.He views the relationship as a learning experience and uses the play to articulate his experience in a productive way, something he hasn’t done yet. Lastly, the ending of the film shows the most significant change from Alvy. He meets with Annie and seems genuinely happy to spend time with her and says he’s gl ad that he got to know her, contrary to his prior notion to have sex to solve his problems. Alvy’s first noticeable change occurs after Annie’s audition at the club.It’s her first time and she thinks that her performance was awful because the audience wasn’t paying attention and there were distractions such as microphone feedback, dropping glass, and a ringing phone. After her performance, they’re walking down the street and he cheers her up by telling her that the crowd was â€Å"a tad restless† and that she has a â€Å"wonderful voice† (42). He usually saw things in a negative light before this moment and this was the first time in the film where he turned a bad situation into a better one.This helped Annie continue her singing and she improved later because of Alvy and opened new doors for her, thanks to Alvy’s persuasion and change of view. He saw the possible relationship between them as something worthwhile and it ultimat ely led up to his transformation at the end of the movie. He makes her feel better–confident enough to brag, â€Å"Yeah, you know something? I never even took a lesson, either† (42). She accepts his support and Alvy realizes he would need to support her through rough times to keep the relationship rolling.And it meant that he would have to adjust his views and habits to keep her happy. They both changed a little in this scene with both of them being more positive toward bleak situations and Alvy bringing benefits out of this situation. After this, he convinces her to kiss him saying that it will â€Å"digest their food better† (43). Maybe he said this joke just to have sex with Annie (which he does in a few scenes) and wouldn’t be much of a change. But he wanted to be in a long term relationship because he told Annie that he wouldn’t let her quit singing.He foresaw that he could help her become a better person and maybe figure himself out along the way, reiterating that he was aware of his problems and wanted to change his ways. After they break up and Annie moves to Los Angeles, Alvy takes the initiative for the first time and flies to L. A. from New York City to try and convince her to marry him. He rents a car to see her and when he tells her this on the phone, she seems surprised causing Alvy to say â€Å"What-why is that such a miracle? † (97).He isn’t fond of California and despises driving so it’s obvious that he wants to be with Annie because he’s doing things he that he usually doesn’t and tries new things to get what he wants. Even Annie notices the change because she knows that Alvy doesn’t like driving. He fights to get back with Annie, a noteworthy change for a man who has been divorced twice and uses sex to relieve his problems. When Alvy arrives at a health food restaurant, he tells the waitress â€Å"I’m gonna . . . I’m gonna have the alfalfa sprouts and , uh, a plate of mashed yeast† (97). It’s a very dd combination, but his choice proves that he was willing to try new things to be with Annie. He figures that he has to make adjustments in his own life in order to better suit Annie’s way of life. But they immediately start bickering with Annie vehemently saying â€Å"Alvy, you’re incapable of enjoying life, you know that? I mean your life is New York City. You’re just this person. You’re like this island unto yourself† (98). Alvy then stutters on but doesn’t say anything coherent, her words hitting him like two tons of bricks, knowing that what she said was true.He knows that his problems are unlike other people’s. He knows that he has to change his negative perspective on life if he ever wants to be with Annie or get into any other meaningful relationship. He knows that no one knows him like Annie. So he accepts her criticism for the first time and takes her words into c onsideration. He realizes he would have to stop living â€Å"self-consciously in his own world of illusion† (Conard 109). The play Alvy is directing about his rendezvous with Annie in Los Angeles indicates that he used their relationship to his advantage and now understands himself better.He writes what really happens until he makes his character say â€Å"Okay, if that’s all that we’ve been through together means to you, I guess it’s better if we just said goodbye, once and for all! † (102). Although it may seem immature of him to change the ending to end on his own terms, it proves that he knew that he could’ve acted better instead of arguing with Annie the entire time. That moment was monumental in his transformation and is still working it out in his head. He also changed the last scene to end in his favor with Annie saying â€Å"Wait! I’m-I’m gonna . . go with you† and â€Å"I love you†(102). This shows growt h in Alvy because he is expressing his heartbreak in a healthy manner instead of feeling sorry for himself. Also, changing the ending suggests that he knows he can control his life now that he has a better perspective on it. In reality though, she told Alvy that she didn’t love him so he makes her say it to envision how he would have liked it to end, on his own terms and with his own decisions. After this scene he looks at the audience and says â€Å" Tsch, whatta you want? It was my first play.You know, you know how you’re always tryin’ t’ get things to come out perfect in art because, uh, it’s real difficult in life† (102). He knows that he’s changed but still has some work to do in order to get the ending he wants. His life isn’t perfect and uses the play to figure himself out and is still using that relationship to become a better person. He’s now able to reflect on his mistakes and turn them around to work for him. The final part of Alvy’s transformation is shown when he runs into Annie in New York and they go out for lunch.After lunch, they â€Å"shake hands and kiss each other friendly like† (105). Their prior encounter ended in disarray and she wouldn’t have kissed him if she didn’t have a good time this time around. It can be interpreted that Alvy has changed for the better and Annie has noticed this change, causing the friendly kiss. He then exclaims â€Å"I realized what a terrific person she was and-and how much fun it was just knowing her† (105). She was the first woman that he came across that he actually appreciated rather than use for sex.He’s glad that he got to know her because she helped him change his perspective on relationships from lust and sex to just having a partner who can make him better himself. It’s clear that he views relationships differently when he tells his last joke, this guy goes to a psychiatrist and says ‘ Doc, uh, my brother’s crazy. He thinks he’s a chicken. ’ And, uh, the doctor says, ‘Well, why don’t you turn him in? ’ And the guy says, ‘I would, but I need the eggs. ’ Well, I guess that’s pretty much how I feel about relationships. You know, they’re totally irrational and crazy and absurd and . . but, uh, I guess we keep goin’ through it because, uh, most of us need the eggs. (105) He realizes that we all go through the tribulations of relationships because of what lies at the end of the road. It may be positive or negative and in Alvy’s case, it turned out that it made him a better person. He now knows how to handle a relationship and knows that it’s not all about him. After dealing with his problems, he learns that the aftermath can benefit him. Annie Hall may be a romantic comedy, but we can use it to help ourselves.According to Michael Castrignano’s biography on Allen, he was divor ced twice before the release of this movie, similar to Alvy. Alvy used to be a negative person who didn’t want to solve his problems but after a bad situation, turned his life around. He learned how to turn a negative into a positive, that he has to take the initiative, how to express himself instead of feeling sorry, and that relationships can’t be all about sex. Perhaps Allen used Alvy to help himself and we in turn can use Alvy as an example on how to deal with our problems.We may not necessarily have the same types of problems but we can make turn a negative into a positive. He reflected on the whole situation and used it to change his views on life. We all go through bad times but if we change our perspectives on certain things, we can usually benefit from it. Works Cited Castrignano, Michael. â€Å"Biography for Woody Allen. † IMDb. 2010. 25 March 2010 Conard, Mark T. , ed. , and Aeon J. Skoble, ed. Woody Allen and Philosophy: You Mean My Whole Fallacy is Wrong? Peru: Open Court, 2004. Four Films of Woody Allen. New York: Random House, 1982.

How the Compromise of 1850 Helped Delay the Civil War

How the Compromise of 1850 Helped Delay the Civil War The Compromise of 1850 was a series of five bills intended to stave off sectional strife that passed during  Millard Fillmores  presidency.  With the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo at the end of the Mexican-American War, all the Mexican-owned territory between California and Texas was given to the United States. This included parts of New Mexico and Arizona. In addition, portions of Wyoming, Utah, Nevada, and Colorado were ceded to the US. The question that arose was what to do with slavery in these territories. Should it be allowed or forbidden? The issue was extremely important to both free and slave states because of the balance of power in terms of voting blocs in the US Senate and House of Representatives.   Henry Clay as Peacemaker Henry Clay was a Whig Senator from Kentucky. He was nicknamed The Great Compromiser due to his efforts at helping bring these bills to fruition along with previous bills such as the Missouri Compromise of 1820 and the Compromise Tariff of 1833. He personally owned slaves which he would later free in his will. However, his motivation in passing these compromises, especially the 1850 compromise, was to avoid the Civil War. Sectional strife was becoming more and more confrontational. With the addition of new territories and the question of whether they would be free or slave territories, the need for a compromise was the only thing that at that time would have averted outright violence. Realizing this, Clay enlisted the help of Democratic Illinois Senator, Stephen Douglas who would eight years later be involved in a series of debates with Republican opponent Abraham Lincoln.   Clay, backed by Douglas, proposed five resolutions on January 29, 1850, which he hoped would bridge the gap between Southern and Northern interests. In April of that year, a Committee of Thirteen was created to consider the resolutions. On May 8th, the committee led by Henry Clay proposed the five resolutions combined into an omnibus bill. The bill did not receive unanimous support. Opponents on both sides were not happy with the compromises including southerner John C. Calhoun and northerner William H. Seward. However, Daniel Webster put his considerable weight and verbal talents behind the bill. Nonetheless, the combined bill failed to win support in the Senate. Thus, the supporters decided to separate the omnibus bill back into five individual bills. These were eventually passed and signed into law by President Fillmore.   The Five Bills of the Compromise of 1850   The goal of the Compromise bills was to deal with the spread of slavery to territories in order to keep northern and southern interests in balance. The five bills included in the Compromises put the following into law: California was entered as a free state.New Mexico and Utah were each allowed to use popular sovereignty to decide the issue of slavery. In other words, the people would pick whether the states would be free or slave.The Republic of Texas gave up lands that it claimed in present-day New Mexico and received $10 million to pay its debt to Mexico.The slave trade was abolished in the District of Columbia.The Fugitive Slave Act made any federal official who did not arrest a runaway slave liable to pay a fine. This was the most controversial part of the Compromise of 1850 and caused many abolitionists to increase their efforts against slavery. The Compromise of 1850 was key in delaying the start of the Civil War until 1861. It temporarily lessened the rhetoric between northern and southern interests, thereby delaying secession for 11 years. Clay died of tuberculosis in 1852. One wonders what might have happened if he had still been alive in 1861.