Bucket List

Bucket List The Bucket List was an amazing movie; it was a movie that showed two older men on a journey to find the meaning of life. Mr. Edward Cole a corporate billionaire and a scholarly mechanic Carter Chambers met in the hospital because they both had Cancer. The time that they spent together in the hospital did not only bring them great friendship but also together they found the joy and meaning of life. While sitting in the hospital together slowly dying from cancer they decided that they were not ready to die and they still had a lot of things they wanted to do for themselves before it was too late. So, they made a bucket list, and decided to escape the hospital and do everything that they always wanted to do. Carter Chambers was married to his dear wife, Virginia, for 45 years he had a happy marriage and a wonderful family but, Mr. Chambers felt as if something was missing. He explained that for the last forty five years of his life were mostly dedicated to his family and wife, now he wants to have time for himself and do the things he always wanted to do, but didn’t get a chance to do. Even though his friend Edward Cole was a billionaire; he also felt as if there was something missing out of his life, he had a lot of money and many divorces, and a daughter that he has not spoken with, that didn’t make him feel like he had the true meaning to life. As a person approaches late adulthood, health problems are not just the issue, but problems regarding one’s meaning of life. Both of these men felt unsatisfied or incomplete, with their overall feeling, they were both suffering from a terminal disease, and they both felt if they were going to die they wanted die knowing they got the best out of life, with no regrets, and lived life to the fullest. Both Edward and Carter where demonstrating Erikson’s Last stage of development. His last stage is integrity vs. espair hoping that one will gain strength of wisdom so that person will not be afraid of death. Erikson believes that much of life was preparing for the middle adult stage and the last stage is to recovering from it. When a person is older and is able to reevaluate their life with happiness, and feels fulfilled with a deep sense of life and meaning is when that person is experiencing integrity. If a person is experiencing that they failed at life, and have no meaning to life this is when the person is displaying despair. They fear death because they have not got all out of life

Network Security Essay

Since the last two decades there has been an overwhelming increase in the number of organizations that rely on data communication networks for their daily business communications, resource sharing, database information retrieval so on and so forth. Previously most computers were centralized and managed in data centres. Computers were kept in locked rooms and links outside a site were unusual. Computer security threats were rare, and were basically concerned with insiders. These threats were well understood and standard techniques were used to deal them. The scenario has changed and now systems are connected to the Internet. The Internet is a network of networks and has no boundaries whatsoever. The Internet provides these organizations with a world of business opportunities. Information on the Internet can be accessed from anywhere in the world, unfortunately it has also allowed for the â€Å"proliferation of malicious information†. It does not take long for an expert programmer to break into a system. The value of the data stored on most organizations’ networks and the value provided by the application systems in use far exceeds the cost of the networks themselves. Network security has become of the most important issues for these business organizations and aims at protecting the organizations’ data and application software. What is Network? A â€Å"network† has been defined as â€Å"any set of interlinking lines resembling a net, a network of roads an interconnected system, a network of alliances. † This definition suits our purpose well: a computer network is simply a system of interconnected computers and peripherals. Essentially there are three basic hardware components of a data communication network. Server: The server or the host computer houses all the data and the software that is to be accessed by the clients. Client: A client can be referred to as an input/output hardware device that lies at the other end of the communication circuit. It enables the user to have an access to the network and the data and software on the server. Circuit: The circuit is the route or the medium through which the message travels. Nowadays the fibre optic cable and wireless transmission are becoming increasingly common. A peer-to-peer network lacks a central server. There is a set of computers, which are linked together by a cable. Each computer is an equal, or â€Å"peer,† of the others, and has the ability to share the files and peripherals of other computers that are connected to the network. This type of network is essentially designed for a very limited number of users (five or less) in a business organisation. Some of the benefits of a peer-to-peer network are low-cost and easy-to-install solution. If anyone of the user turns of its workstation the other users are not able to access this particular user’s information and peripherals. Furthermore, accessing data and applications from another person’s workstation can cause performance problems for that user. Client/Server Networks Client/server networks are a lot more than peer-to-peer networks. The presence of a dedicated server in the network ensures that the users are able to access information and share peripherals without being dependent upon other user(s)systems. There is room for installing a tape backup that enables the users to back up data on both the server and all workstations. Client/server networks are primarily used when there is a constant need to access large files and applications or when peripherals have to share between a numbers of users. Thin-Client Computing Thin-client (server-based) enables centralized application deployment and management on a server. Because of this technology system updates and maintenance can be done on an enterprise-wide level instead of on a physical desktop-to-desktop basis. This not only enhances the productivity and efficiency of both end users and system administrators, but also lowers the total cost incurred. http://www. premiopc. com/networking/types/default. html Need of Security over Business Networks There are certain things in any business, which must be kept, confidential and secure. With the use of computers, everything is now on PC and PCs when connected to each other become vulnerable to many threats. The most common threats discussed below: Business Network Threats and Their Effects There are essentially two kinds of network threats that business organizations have to guard against: Disruptions Disruptions can be referred to as loss or reduction in network service. For instance a network switch might start malfunctioning leading to a breakdown of a part of the network. Although the part that has not been affected will be functioning perfectly, but the organization will have to replace immediately otherwise there would be a loss in employee productivity. For example finance manager failing to retrieve the information regarding the upcoming project. A virus could also lead to disruptions. For instance, an employee opens an email from an unknown sender. A virus could prove to be very fatal and may result in loss of valuable time on part of the employees(s). Natural calamities can also lead to disruptions. Fires, flood and earthquakes are common examples. It is good idea not to have company headquarters in areas that are vulnerable to such calamities. Unauthorised Access Unauthorised access is basically gaining access to organizational data files and resources, which you are not supposed to have an access to. Common term used for such offenders is hackers. Unfortunately in most of the cases the hackers are organizations’ own employees and can do a significant amount of damage to the organization if that valuable piece of information is leaked to organization’s close competitors. If the hacker happens to be a competitor, he can do an unimaginable amount of damage to the organization. He could access all the information regarding the latest products, which are under development, sales figures, company’s strength and weaknesses, financial position, future plans and a lot more. There are several types of unauthorized access. They are discussed briefly discussed.

State of Washington Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

State of Washington - Essay Example The state’s efforts to conserve the natural resources have sustained the ecological balance in this country. In the industrial sector, the country has grown considerably by engaging in mining, manufacturing, mining and many other agricultural activities. The cumulative impact of these activities is that Washington has experienced great economic development in the recent past. Climate is one of the most important aspects of state that determines the economic activities of the public. Washington lies in the sub-tropic zone and experience four seasons that include winter, summer, autumn and spring. These season show distinct weather patterns that impact on the countries climatic changes. The spring is warm period and the country experiences high temperatures, unlike in winter which is humid and cold. As compared to other countries, Washington is humid going up to a maximum of 66% within a year. Summers are rather hot and the temperatures rise up to 26.6 degrees Celsius. The country has adverse weather patterns often characterized with hurricanes and blizzards, although they are unpredictable within the year. (Pressman & Wildavsky, 1999). These weather patterns have become a challenge for the countries as they determine the periods of farming as rarely do crops survive the cold seasons. In Washington, there a wide range of natural resources ranging from forests, minerals, land forms and water. The forests in Washington include capitol state forest, Tiger mountain state forest and the Yacolt Burn forest. These forests remain evergreen due to minimum interference from the public. The Washington’s national forest foundation has put regulation measures against the abuse of forest through human activities. Also, this body has emphasized on the need for forest development through establishment of man-made forests. In addition, the country has many water bodies that have contributed to the development of this

Summary and response Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words - 3

Summary and response - Essay Example No shooting has occurred in recent times and men were laid back in informal gear and are generally having a relaxed time before they jumped into battle on this day. The American soldiers at Restrepo (one of the American bases) then witness an Afghani soldier, alongside the author, crawl to his death on the mountainside; and celebrate. This disturbs the author and he begins to explain the effects this type of experiences has on the American soldier; that according to him, no one seems to be paying enough attention to. He says that some of these men have died at war, and they together with the society they come from never take time to evaluate the real effects of sacrificing themselves for their country. In the author’s view, the country should at least do this for the soldiers. The men lack mentors, necessary physiological needs etc. and have all learnt to embrace this life they lead. It is their source of excitement and they discuss it often with everyone but the public. In th e author’s view, the important thing in war is survival. The fear of going back to rejoin society’s normal way of life appears boring and even sad. I would like to respond to the author’s idea that the soldiers are not bothered by death at the battlefield and the psychological effects are immense. In the past this may have been possible but the American government began employing the use of clinical psychologists to deal with such effects. The clinical psychologist gets to work with the soldiers themselves as well as with their families. This greatly reduces the effects this has on their psyche. I also believe that no one is forced to join the American army and this is a choice they should be prepared to live with. I, however, feel that it is a noble thing for these men and women to sacrifice so much for their country and they shouldn’t be made to feel as if they are suffering. The author describes

Ethos, Logos and Pathos that Rev King Used Essay

Ethos, Logos and Pathos that Rev King Used - Essay Example This document analyzes the use of Ethos, Logos and Pathos that Rev King uses in his argument. The document concludes with the essence of using these forms of argumentative writing and their application in a real-life situation. Introduction An argument can be defined as a discussion in which reasons are advanced for and against some proposition or proposal. In other cases, an argument is a fact or assertion offered as evidence that something is true. Arguments are defined by the circumstances in which they fall (Ramage D John, Bean C John Bean & C Johnson 94). There are three ways of presenting an argument. These are Ethos, Pathos and Logos. Ethos refers to the impression given by an author to his or her audience. It is being based on the convincing the reader of the potential of a character. Pathos is a form of argumentative based on how well the author impresses the reader’s emotions. The language of choice is of much weight since it predicts the emotional appeal of the audi ence which in turn can be used to develop an argument. Logos is simply the swaying of people by making use of reasoning, which can either be the inductive or deductive reasoning. Its impact on the audience is referred to an argument’s logical appeal. The logos can also be termed as the details and statistics that aid in sustaining the argument. Ethos It is determined by the credibility of the authors. It is expressed through tone and by how the authors refer to various views. The authors’ character  influences ethos. The writers show this by showing how one can make an argument to triumph for professional and also personal reasons fall (Ramage D John, Bean C John Bean & C Johnson 132). In the book ‘Informed argument,’ the others portray this style of writing Rev King writes a letter to the clergymen in Birmingham. In the letter, he tries to respond to the wrong accusation posed by the clergymen. The clergy referred to the activities of King Luther as unw ise. Rev King was unhappy about the  treatment of black people  in Birmingham. The bombing of degrees in Birmingham city was a sign of racial segregation that annoyed Rev King. He influenced the reaction of people in opposition to racism. The clergymen accuse him of taking this course and refraining from solving the problem diplomatically. He argues that dialogue cannot occur with only one party involve in the decision making. This was in reference to the white people. He farther insists that people in Birmingham live in monologue rather than dialogue. Ethos is present in this argument as the authors try to create an impression on why the black people resisted oppression. Rev King argues that the black people did not opt for chaos but were forced to react after their hope of negotiation with the white failed to produce results. Rev King tries to convince the clergymen that he was not wrong when he indirectly convinced the people to rebel. He argues by creating an impression that the situation was out of hand due to the bombing in Birmingham and the failure of dialogue to make peace. Ethos can simply be referred to as a convincing language.

Paramedic care Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Paramedic care - Essay Example Essay Plan Introduction: Paramedic care, a significant branch of healthcare profession, involves taking care of the patients when they need immediate medical attention. CFR (Certified First Responder) is a paramedic professional whose duty is to provide pre hospital care for medical emergencies. A person in this profession needs to have apt skills to tackle the problems they confront, under emergency situations. The occupation also calls for quick response and understanding the primary needs of the task in hand. In addition, the CFR must be mentally prepared to face circumstances that involve fatal eventualities, where quick evaluation of victims and managing them through good communication skills are crucial. Finally, a CFR needs to take adequate care and exercise caution while transferring the patients to hospitals. Thus, a CFR, to be effective in his role, has to possess many traits like basic skills of understanding of his duty and human psychology, be able to confront emergent s ituations and deal with them through proper evaluation and quick response. Body of the essay: 1. A CRF needs to possess appropriate educational qualifications as prescribed for this position. He should be physically, mentally, and emotionally able to meet job demands.

Security and Portfolio Analysis (MBA course) Essay - 1

Security and Portfolio Analysis (MBA course) - Essay Example ans, that the price of the security has moved at a pace less than the market volatility while a value higher than the price of the security means a higher rate of volatility. However, the greater the volatility, the greater the returns, of course accompanied by an equally greater risk. Next the trustee alleges that the common stock performance was specially poor for the five year period. The common stock of ATC was 13.3% 14.3% while the Standard & Poor’s 500 Stock Index stood at 13.8% 21.1% over the same period. It is clear that the common stock of ATC had stagnated just with a single point value gain while the Standard & Poor’s Index gained 7.3%. Again the trustee scores a point. Once again it might have been due to a poor investment decision in choosing to buy stocks that were risk-free but gave lower returns. His next allegation is focused on Treasury Bills, a very secure investment, though again the return is questionably lower. US Treasury Bills during the period have gained 3.8%. He continues to talk about the assumed actuarial rate of return. Basic actuarial formulas used to calculate benefits and contributions that are needed to fund those benefits, are based on a series of assumptions such as individual life expectancies, employer and employee contributions, possible returns on investment, salary increments and inflation rate. It is very rare that current plan assets would equal the current accrued plan benefits. So the probability is that a constant actuarial rate of return equal to 6.0% over the period would not match the accrued plan benefits. . Passive investing is the opposite of active investing and involves a buy-and-hold strategy. It is often identified with index tracking. Those who favour it, argue that the market is indisputably efficient, and therefore efforts to outperform the market are likely to produce nothing but a rise in costs. It is also assumed that as much as there are people who might succeed in beating the market, others

Coyne and Messina Articles Analysis Term Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Coyne and Messina Articles Analysis - Term Paper Example The studies conducted by Coyne’s and Messina’s groups are similar, since they are fundamentally interested in bettering the status and quality of the healthcare industry and the services it accords. To this effect, both groups choose dependent and independent variables and then research and analyze how these variables can be harnessed in order to improve the status of the American healthcare industry and services. Specifically, on one hand, Coyne and his group consider the relevance of causative variables like the type of hospital ownership and hospital size in furthering the cause of efficiency within the framework of healthcare services provision. On the other hand, Messina and his group research and scrutinize the nexus between patient satisfaction in teaching and nonteaching healthcare organizations, which practice inpatient admission. There is no gainsaying that patient satisfaction and efficiency are principle yardsticks of determining industrial success. Both Coyne and Messina carry out an extensive reviewing of already existing literature materials, in order to explain and analyze the relationship between the (independent and dependent) variables and the research findings. The same literature materials authenticate and generate recommendations that will be later on proposed. Coyne et al. (2009) and Messina et al. (2009) incorporate identical design elements in their research activities. Apart from the fact that both works are quantitative, the same also use sampling, as a way of narrowing the demographic components that are to be analyzed. For example, Coyne and the group discard private-owned hospitals and hospitals outside the state of Washington. For Messina and his group, seven teaching and nonteaching hospitals that were renowned between 1999 and 2003 suffice. However, even as a myriad of similarities between Coyne and Messina’s works abounds, differences between the two research works also exist. At one end, Messina and his proteges are intent on confirming and divulging on the relationship between inpatient admission in teaching and nonteaching hospitals, and patient satisfaction. At the other end, Coyne and his group are interested in shedding light on how the type of hospital ownership and hospital size relate with cost and efficiency. Two fundamental problems guide the work that Messina and his group carry out. These problems are the relationships that exist between patient satisfaction and inpatient admission in teaching and nonteaching hospitals. This is unlike the work that Joseph Coyne and his groups carry out. Particularly, Joseph Coyne and his group’s research undertaking investigates a single research question- the relationship between cost and efficiency and hospital size and the type of hospital ownership. In respect to the foregoing, there is lucidity in saying that while Coyne and his proteges’ research study is a two-way study of variance that of Messina and his prote ges is a multivariate design. The variables in the two analyses are also different. The independent variables for Coyne and his group include the structure of hospital ownership and hospital size, while teaching and nonteaching healthcare institutions serve as independent variables for Messina’s group. For dependent variables, Coyne and his gr

Economics of Labor Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1750 words

Economics of Labor - Essay Example Strikes can also divide the workforce of a given organization into two factions thus reducing their ability to work as a team towards common organizational objectives. In the event that a strike is organized and some of the workers do not co-operate due to the fear of consequences that may follow, an enmity is created between these two groups of workers. The arising element of distrust will hinder future collective bargaining by the employees resulting in poorer working conditions. It is thus important to note that an effective management of a given organization or government department requires the development of good relations between all the stakeholders of an organization. The employees of the organizations need to have a union that advocates for theirs. The union acts as a link to the authority that ensures a formal procedure in addressing the issues. The employees should be loyal to the union and abide by its provisions. Besides, the management principles as defined in economic s require that the managers give room to the needs of the employees of the organization, and this is the key to effective management. The managers should address the issues as they are raised by the worker's unions to avoid the future negative reactions by the employees. On the other hand, the employees need to adopt the organizational cultures that require the formal solution of arising issues. The fact that all these fail to take place and a strike are witnessed means an irresponsible behavior by either the management or the employees.... The educators calling for a salary increase can simply decide to put pens and chalks down while going to the learning institutions as usual or they may intensify it and take to streets. The nurses in public hospital may decide to boycott their duty to attend to patience. Alternatively, an authoritarian manager of an organization can be forcefully evicted out of office by the angry employees. The effects of such strikes are adverse on the economic development of a given region (Addison & Teixeira, 2006, p.4). Common causes of strikes There are different factors that often lead to strikes by employees in a given organization. The strikes by the workers through the unions are geared towards streamlining the monopoly that might be exercised by the management of organizations. Achieving this requires a union made of leaders with the capability of managing teams and can deal with various emerging issues (Griffin & Stacey, 2005, p.29). One common cause of strike is poor working conditions a t the work places coupled with a lot of workload leading to job depression and stress. The employees often complain of long working hours and workload imposed on them probably due to understaffing. This is followed by a pressure from the management to meet strict deadline leading to job stress. Related to the poor working conditions is the cry for salary and wages that are proportional to the tasks that are carried out by the employees. This, however, takes different directions depending on who determines the wages of the employees (Addison & Teixeira, 2006, p.5). The employees often complain that despite the long working hours and the heavy workloads, they are not provided with remunerations

Strategic Choice in HRM Case Study Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2500 words

Strategic Choice in HRM - Case Study Example The company will also conduct employee redeployment, an activity whereby workers are moved from one working environment to another. The reasons for reassignment will be to increase efficiency, to reduce costs or for the purposes of trainings to build on the skills workers. Redeployment and retrenchment of workers cause’s stressful conditions to the employees as there remain uncertainties about their future in terms of security of their current occupation. During the redeployment process, employees are expected to maintain their performance under the changes in the workplace cultures, organisational structures and changes in the role they play in their works and responsibilities. Job insecurity is termed as being cross-sectional, moist researches are conducted either after the redeployment has been conducted or during the time when the affected individuals are trying to cope up with the new job environment. Therefore, it remains to be known how the workers manage to cope up wit h the extensive change of environment and how it correlates to the different stages of redeployment. In addition, it remains unknown how different individuals or the organisation cope up with the impacts of redistribution. Job uncertainties affect an organisations cultures; redeployment entails that in every point in time there shall be a new face in the team (Koontz 2009, p.179). The cultures may be different from their new organisation; consequently, this will impact the healthy organisation culture that had been put in place before the initialisation of the process of downsizing that affects the employee. Redeployment without a pay increment is a form of discouragement to the employee. However, modern managers have instituted a program of redeploying workers where they accompany them with a salary increase. Standfast Insurance has a plan to loan its workforce to another company.

Weaknesses of modern democracy Essay Example for Free

Weaknesses of modern democracy Essay â€Å"Democracy is the worst form of government, except for all those others that have been tried from time to time.† These are the words used by Sir Winston Churchill while he was expressing his resolve with democracy. Democracy is the dominant form of government in the world with the exception of a few countries. In Sir Winston’s statement, the phrase, â€Å"except all those others that have been tried from time to time† however, shows that despite being a weak form of government, it’s relatively the best form of governance in history1. Weaknesses of modern democracy span from the fundamental to contemporary ones as this paper illustrates. The biggest problem with modern democratically elected governments is the sluggish manner in which they conduct their business2. This is detrimental to any government’s role in deliberating on key policies. Any policy making exercise by any government should be marked by strong decisiveness. Modern democratic governments have adopted compromise in the place of decisiveness2. In circumstances where long term solutions are needed, short term solutions are made leaving problems unsolved and very sensitive to future discussions. On part of the governed, unfulfilled promises lead to disillusionment eventually resulting to numerous and sporadic government changes thus overhauls and patching of critical government programs and key policies1. A good example of sluggishness in government policing is the destitute nature of the United States economy2. Slowness in dealing with the huge public debt and recession, have drastically reduced the strength of the economy. With the congress locked in ideological partisan politics, important decisions on the economy have been unforthcoming. On the other hand, China (without democracy and very decisive) has a strong economy growing with an above average growth rate2. The original definition of democracy is; a government whereby people determine on the way they are governed mostly through elected representatives1. Democracy is guided by the core principle of majority rule2. However, today the minority as well might have their way provided there is enough money to bribe the electorate. Such governments end up spending extravagantly so as to achieve all campaign promises1. Excessive spending leads to accumulation of huge public debts, as seen in the European Union and in the USA. To settle these debts, governments end up borrowing more money and imposing huge taxes. These end up reducing an economy’s competitiveness and reducing critical investment within a country2. Another weakness in democracy is the accession of incompetent leaders to office. Most citizens in countries with modern democracy belong to a gullible bourgeois class1. An intelligent charismatic leader with self interests can easily deceive such masses to get into office. Once in office such leaders end up forgetting their promises in pursuit of personal gains2. In modern democracy, most voters do not vote due to an obligatory purpose as required in democracy but due to persuasion by candidates1. Due to the equality principle applied in democracy, this phenomenon is dangerous since not all people are intelligent enough to understand all proposed promises by candidates2. Another demerit of modern democracy is the huge cost incurred. A lot of resources and time are used and foregone in electing governments and formulating laws democratically1. Elections waste a lot of money that could instead be used for economic constructive purposes. Elected politicians also waste a lot of public money in seminars and unnecessary retreats2. It is important to note that, despite democracy having a lot of demerits; it has a lot of benefits compared to all other forms of governance ever tried so far. Only in democracy can citizens be assured of essential human rights and freedoms. It is also the only form of government that citizens can determine how and by how much to be ruled. Bibliography 1. Gupta, Tusha. â€Å"What are the advantages and disadvantages of democracy?† Preserve articles, May 16, 2012, http://www.preservearticles.com/2012051632245/what-are-the-advantages-and-disadvantages-of-democracy.html. 2. Hearnes, James. â€Å"The weaknesses of Democracy† WordPress, July 18, 2012, http://jameshearne.wordpress.com/2012/07/18/the-weaknesses-of-democracy/ View as multi-pages

Protected Areas Of The Wildlife Protection Act

Protected Areas Of The Wildlife Protection Act Wildlife and environment is an integral part of life. Protection of Wildlife and Environment has been present from the pre-colonial and the colonial times. During the 3rd century, Asoka, king of Magadha, passed a law for the protection of wildlife and environment. During colonial times, the British enacted Indias first codified law Wild Birds Protection Act, 1887 and the Wild Birds and Animals Protection Act, 1912. The parliament passed legislation on 9th September, 1972 and is known as Wildlife Protection Act, 1972. This act was enacted under the Article 252. This is an Act to provide for the protection of wild animals, birds and plants] and for matters connected therewith or ancillary or incidental thereto. Wildlife is defined in the act under section 2(37). The wildlife was under the state list according to the constitution but by the 42nd amendment it was transferred to the concurrent list in 1976. By 1991 the act was applicable to whole of India (except Jammu and Kashmir). This has helped the central government to increase its role in developing the national wildlife policy. This act provides protection of wildlife and preservation of the environment regardless of its location. The protection is based on two approaches species approach and the ecosystem approach. The National Wildlife Board was legislated in the 2002 amendment. Environmental protection is every citizens right according to Article 51A (g).The protection of forests, wildlife animals and birds where shifted from the state list to concurrent list. These were entries 17 A and 17 B respectively. PROTECTED AREAS INTRODUCTION Certain areas are protected for the conservation of wildlife. These areas are known as Protected Areas. Protected areas are designated based on their level of protection and the laws binding the country. These areas are protected based on the environmental and cultural values. According to IUCN, a protected area is, A clearly defined geographical space, recognised, dedicated and managed, through legal or other effective means, to achieve the long-term conservation of nature with associated ecosystem services and cultural values. Marine protected areas also are included in the list of protected areas. Under the WLPA, the state government can declare an area of flush or adequate ecological, faunal, floral, geomorphological, natural or zoological significance a sanctuary or a national park. Public entry is banned in a protected area and the destruction of the habitat along with its wildlife is prohibited and can result in serious consequences. Protected areas are necessary for conservation of biodiversity and also the preservation of the existing environment. These areas help in balancing ecological cycles and other processes in the environment. This results in protection of watersheds, soils and protects humans from natural disasters. Many of these areas are vital for the survival for indigenous or local people whose life depends on the sustainable use of resources of that area. They serve as backbone for the local communities. These areas are a physical gateway to hectic work schedule and help attain calm and peace. Certain protected areas are important for research and education and also apply to sustainable land use. The most important aspect of these areas is the tourism, which contributes to the economy. The importance and the significance of protected areas are realized in the Convention of Biodiversity (CBD) (Article 8). Recently protected areas are facing threats because of climate change and pollution. One of the main reasons that have lead to the degradation of these areas is lack of political support and inadequate financing. The only body that has been actively involved in the protection of these areas is the WCPA. IUCN PROTECTED AREAS MANAGEMENT CATEGORIES WCU, founded in 1948 is one of the 6 commissions of IUCN. There are certain guidelines that offer help in classifying the protected areas management categories. The original intent was to provide an understanding of protected areas both within and outside the country. It has categorized certain regions as protected based on the management objective and has classified protected areas into 8 distinct categories: a. Strict Nature Reserve scientific use b. Wilderness Area wilderness protection National Parks ecosystem protection and recreation Natural Monument conservation of specific natural features Habitat/species Management maintained for conservation through management intervention Protected Landscape/Seascape landscape/seascape protection and recreation Managed Resource Protected Area sustainable use of natural ecosystem According to the IUCN survey, 30,000 protected areas around the world covers 13,250,000 sq.km by 2000. Barely 1% of worlds seas are protected. PROTECTED AREAS IN INDIA The protected areas in India cover 156,700sq.km which implies that approximately 4.95% of the total surface area. It has been estimated that there are nearly 5000 villages in protected areas (Shyam Divan and Armin Rosencranz, 2001).In India protected areas have been present from 1935. India has the following as protected areas based on the IUCN classification: National Parks Wildlife Sanctuaries Biosphere Reserves Conservation Reserve and Community Reserve Village Forests and Panchayat Private Protected Areas Tiger Reserves The countrys wilderness has been under threat due to rapid urbanization and industrialization. The number of protected areas has increased over the years. In 1988 there were 54 national parks and 372 sanctuaries covering about 3.34% of the countrys geographical area. In 2002, India has a total of 578 wildlife protected areas which accounts to about 4.70% of the countrys geographical area (wildlife institute of India). The WII has recommended the government to increase the number of wildlife protected areas to 870 which includes 163 national parks and 707 wildlife sanctuaries and the approximate geographical area used will to about 5.74%(Rodgers, Panwar and Mathur, WII)(fig.1). Certain areas in India have very high percentage of protected areas. This is due to the conditions that are available for declaration of a protected area. (Table 1 and Table 2). NATIONAL PARKS A National park is a reserve of natural lands that is declared by government. It is declared and created for recreation purposes and protection and preservation of nature. National parks are declared under category II type of protected areas by IUCN. There are 7000 national parks worldwide. The largest national park in the world is the Northeast Greenland National Park. National parks are declared under section 35, 38 (2) and 66 (3). For an area to be declared as a national park it has to undergo a series of stages: Intention notification Determination of rights Proclamation notification Inquiry Acquisition of rights Final notification The above procedure need not be followed if the rights of the land have extinguished and if the land is under the state government. Indias first national park was Hailey National Park, later renamed as Jim Corbett National Park. This park was established in 1935. There are 96 national parks as of April 2007 in India. National parks hold a higher authority and a high degree of protection than sanctuaries. The rules and regulations that bind national parks are stricter. A national park can be set up within or around a sanctuary. WILDLIFE SANCTUARIES Wildlife sanctuaries are areas declared for the protection and restoration of wildlife (endangered species). It is created through government regulations. A sanctuary is actually set up by the central government under the section 38. Only when the state government passes power of authority to the central government can a sanctuary be set up. A sanctuary cannot be created within an existing sanctuary. These areas are declared under Section 26A, 38(1) and 66(3). There are certain conditions that are required for setting up a sanctuary (section 18). These come under IUCN category IV. The main objective is to maintain and conserve species in a habitat. There are about 489 wildlife sanctuaries covering 3.56% geographical area in India. By the legislation passed by the 2002 amendment the construction of lodges, safari trips, hotels need approval of National Board. The procedure is same as that of declaring a national park. The control of these sanctuaries is under the Chief Wildlife Warden (section 33). In India, there are about 28 tiger reserves out of the total wildlife sanctuaries. These reserves are mainly for the protection and the conservation of tigers. Therefore these reserves are species specific. Certain sanctuaries are named exclusively as bird sanctuaries, E.g. Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary in Tamil Nadu. There are certain restrictions after a land or area has been notified and declared as WS (Sections 27, 29, 30, 31, and 32). BIOSPHERE RESERVES These reserves were established by UNSECO in 1973-74 under the Man and Biosphere programme (MAB).This programme aims at bringing the balance between use and conservation of resources. It main objective is in research and scientific outlook in the presents world. In India, there are over 14 Biosphere Reserves as of 25th October, 2007(Table 3). Biosphere reserves are natural landscapes that extend over large areas. They can be terrestrial or marine or combination of both. These reserves are perfect paradigm for showcasing the existing harmony between man and nature. The reserves help in conservation of the habitat along with the species and also help in the economic development. These biosphere reserves actually have unique features nad are in very good condition. They come under Category V of IUCN classification. In India, a National Biosphere Reserve Programme was established in 1986.The main criteria for declaring a biosphere reserve is that the area should contain rare and endangered species of flora and fauna. It should be an area that is protected and is a bio geographical unit that is extensive. These ecosystems actually are like alternate research models that provide educational information. A biosphere reserve has a layered structure that contains 3 important zones: Core zone Buffer zone Transition zone The core zone actually consists of the target species that need to be protected and conserved. This zone is legally protected from human interference. The Buffer zone is a middle zone that is adjoined to both the core and transition zone. In this zone certain activities like recreation, education, tourism and the restoration of area. In this area, if human activities are natural then these activities are allowed. These activities are only allowed if they cause minimal damage to the environment. The Transition zone is the outermost zone. In this zone all activities along with conservation and administration are carried out in harmony. This zone has no limits on human activities. In this zone there is huge economic revenue that is derived from tourism and management practices. The biosphere reserves are established under the legal frameworks that have been legislated under WPA, 1972. In the process of declaring an area as biosphere reserve the central as well as the state government have roles and responsibilities to be carried out. The financial support is provided by the central government whereas the management and administration is the duty of the state government. The Indian National Man and Biosphere committee actually is constituted by central government and finds new sites, committees, policies, programmes and other activities for the betterment of the reserve. The ministry proposed certain areas for getting approved into the World Network of Biosphere Reserves, in November 2001, the International Coordinating Council (ICC) of Man and Biosphere programme of UNESCO designated and approved of Sunderbans (West Bengal) and the Gulf of Mannar (Tamil Nadu) into the world network. The Nilgiri was already included in 2000. IMPLEMENTATION OF THE PROVISIONS PROVIDED BY WLPA,1972 The CEL WWF India was launched in 1993. This organization took active legal actions in the country. They have fought legal actions for the protection and conservation of wildlife and environment. They came into forefront mainly because of the Bhitarkanika case, Narayan Sarovar case, and intervention in Delhi ridge. Through research and investigation it came to light that the provisions of the WLPA, 1972 were not being implemented.CEL WWF filed a civil writ petition in May, 1995 in SC for protection and development of protected areas along with the wildlife. The SC accepted the petition and issued notices to every State Government and the Union of India on February, 1997. During the course of the case hearing the SC has passed several contempt notices to the state and union officials to carry out their duties with honour and adhere to the orders of the court. In March, 1997 the Indian board of wildlife (IBWL) was ordered to submit a summary and report on the plight of the protected areas in India and its progress after the SC had passed the orders for strict surveillance. The states were requested to submit a report on its activities and the steps they had taken for the betterment of these protected areas. The SC also noticed that some states had WW while some didnt. Those states who had appointed a WW were only for certain areas. In response to the SC, the MoEF responded that the meeting of the Previous IBWL have not attended a meeting for the last eight years. This showed laxity at the national level and the action of the highest authority. This board was reconstituted in 1996 and appointed the Prime Minister as the Chairman. At the state level the states had not been adhering to the court orders and were not alert enough to file their replies. Even though it was laxity at the state level and the SC extended the deadline of the submission of the report and granted them another two months to file their answers. Finally, the SC accepted that all the States and Unions of India had constituted their wildlife advisory boards and confirmed the body. This was done in January, 1998. One of the main issues regarding implementation was about the existing tiger population in India. The court ordered to bring to notice about the population of these cats. By a report submitted by the MoEF stated that the population of tigers had not declined since 1973. But the overall decline of population was due to the fragmentation of tiger habitats. DE RESERVATION OF PROTECTED AREAS Some sanctuaries face a threat of being de reserved by the state actions. The shield provided by the WLPA, 1972 can be removed by the state wildlife advisory board (state board) in case its not necessary. But the order passed by the SC directed the state governments to pass on a proposal of denotification or de reservation of an area to the NBWL for its opinion and pass it on to the Legislative Assembly. According to the 2002 amendment of WLPA the NBWL has the power to alter PAs over the legislative assembly. Certain cases have already happened like, 1994 the Boriavli National Park was trimmed so that the slum people who resided near the national park would not be evicted. But in case of tiger reserve, it cannot be de notified by a state board. But a tiger reserve can be de reserved if it has the approval of the TCA and the National Board for Wildlife. The Forest Conservation Act, 1970 (FCA) actually restricts the authority of the state to de-reserve forest areas. According to th e SC order dated 13.11.2000 the state requires prior permission for the diversion or de-reservation of forest land in national parks. STATE LEVEL RESPONSES ON PROTECTED AREAS TAMIL NADU In Tamil Nadu the state board was constituted on 14.09.1995 and again reconstituted on 24.02.1997. The state appointed 10 WW to look after the implementation of the WLPA. Tamil Nadu was one the few states that actually interpreted the Supreme Court orders correctly. The state of Tamil Nadu also informed the Supreme Court that there are 6 WW and a Deputy Director for the Project Tiger. A district officer has also been appointed to look after the implementation of the WLPA properly in various national parks and wildlife sanctuaries. The Honorary Wildlife Warden (HWW) is appointed for the National parks and the Sanctuaries. They are appointed for tenure of 3 years. If the person appointed wants to resign before the period is completed then a notice of 3 months has to be given prior to resignation or cancellation of appointment. Many of the protected areas have been notified under the section 16 of the Tamil Nadu Forest act, 1882 and with reference to reserved forest the areas that were proclaimed and notified under the Tamil Nadu forest act, 1882 will enjoy a status equivalent to those that have been notified under the section 26A or 21, WLPA, 1972. Certain sanctuaries and national park come under the non reserved forest areas. These areas are proclaimed under the section 21 of WLPA. An order dated 20.03.1998 stated the immunization of all wildlife in NPs/WSs in every state. The state director of animal husbandry was given the authority to carry out the instructions at the district level. The District Forest Officers were instructed the vaccination of all wildlife in the 5 km radius of Protected Areas. Another order dated 20.03.1998 stated the registration of arms and issuance of licences. The State Director General of Police was instructed to comply with the order. The wildlife protection (Tamil Nadu) Rules, 1975 was framed. The Rule 33 is about the registration of arms in the vicinity of NPs/WSs. The DGPs and CWLWs are requested to take action in case of non compliance. Tamil Nadu has in total 5 NP and 8 WS, 12 BS, 4 Elephant reserves, 3 Tiger Reserves and 3 Biosphere Reserves (Table 3) which are under the UNESCOs MAB programme. Almost one sixth of Tamil Nadu is covered with forest. The state ranks in the 11th position in reference to total forest cover among the Indian states and Union Territories and ranks 13th position in reference to total recorded forest cover. Tamil Nadu ranks 14th position with reference to protected areas. The diversity of flora and fauna are a boon to the state and need to be conserved and managed with great care since the extent of diversity is beyond our imagination. Forests and wilderness of the state actually defines the state. According to the 2008 census, tiger population increased in the state of Tamil Nadu. This was achieved due to strict and mandatory measures passed by the state board. For the development, conservation and administration activities the state has sanctioned and invested a huge sum of money which has proved to be successful to an extent. THE SARISKA CASE: TARUN BHARATH SANGH, ALWAR Vs UNION OF INDIA Tarun Bharath Sangh is a non governmental organization (NGO) whose concern was about the rural development of Rajasthan. The main issue of concern was the availability of water resource. Illegal mining activities were being carried out in Alwar district of Rajasthant taht resulted in shortage of water. The organization launched the Sariska Case. The area that was under scrutiny is now what is known as the Sariska Tiger Sanctuary. This Tiger Sanctuary is a species specific Protected Area and comes under the Tiger Reserves category and it is an exclusive hunting area for the Rulers of the Quondam, Alwar state. This NGO approached court petitioning that the illegal mining activity that was going on in the Alwar district of Rajasthan needs to cease in the interest of environment and nature to sustain. They pointed out that the mining is being carried out in a protected area that has been declared by the government. The area is declared as a tiger reserve under Rajasthan Wild Animal and Birds Protection Act, 1951. This area is also declared as a WS and NP under WLPA, 1972. Under these acts such activities in WS or NP or a tiger reserve is prohibited and can result in dire consequences. The permission of the government for such activities actually contradicted these legislations. The petitioners side of argument was that mining permission lease was not granted to the company. For such an activity to be carried out they have to acquire prior permission from the Government of India section 2 FCA,1980 and rule 4(6) of Rajasthan Minor Mineral Concession Rules. They stated that no permission was obtained and the government illegally issued 400 mining permission leases. This has caused degradation of ecology and devastation of the environment. In this case, the court was called upon to ensure that the laws for the protection of the environment were enacted on. The state on its behalf countered that the grant of these mining activities where due to some confusion regarding the difference between NP and reserved forests and were confused regarding the exact location of mining areas. But the state was humble enough to agree that the mines were in the protected areas and realised that appropriate action should be taken so that the provisions of the statutes are enforced. The irony is that the state of Rajasthan while proclaiming that they protect the environment actually is part of a huge scam and allows the degradation of the environment. The central government stated that the FCA provisions extend to reserved, protected forests and all the areas that have been recorded as forests in the government records. They also submitted that no mining should be allowed to take place without the prior permission from the central government. The central government passed a notification on 7 May, 1997 under section 3 of EPA. This notification prohibited the mining in the Sariska NP, Sariska WS and other areas that were protected. According to the Rule 4(6) of the Rajasthan Minor Mineral Concession Rules, 1982, no mining lease can be granted within a forest without going through the rules and provisions provided by the FCA, 1980. The chair man of committee Shri.Justice M.L.Jain recommended 215 mines mentioned in appendix A that are placed wholly in protected areas are closed. The purpose of FCA and EPA are totally different. In the sense that the closure of the mines that were situated in the protected forests may not benefit for t he environmental purpose but will surely benefit the forest purpose. The central government stated that no permission was acquired for the mines that were in the protected forests. The court after the final hearing ordered and issued notice to the listed mines to stop their activities immediately. But the mines outside the tiger reserve were allowed to continue their activity for 4 months within which they could approach the central government with an application to continue their operation. If permitted they are allowed to continue their mining activities with no hindrance. If no permission is obtained then they will have to cease their mining operations immediately. Some miners who felt that they were wronged filed a review application and the SC rejected the application on 7 May, 1994. This case is a perfect example of Industry Vs Protected Areas. CONCLUSION Nature cannot be compared in terms of beauty. There is nothing that surpasses her. The presence of nature along with her children playing around carefree and not worried about the future was what God pictured when he first created Earth. But unfortunately, the rosy picture painted by God was not reality. Man has been the root cause of the upheaval. Protected areas have a very important place in the process of restoration of the environment. These areas conserve and restore the environment along with its flora and fauna. These areas are critical for the conservation of endemic biodiversity. India has a very diverse population of fauna and flora. But now even the smallest of species are facing a threat of extinction. The protection of natural areas is the fundamental conservation strategy. These areas are key habitats since they can be conserved by species approach or ecosystem approach. These provide refuge for wildlife to restore them and protect them from the outside cruelty. They also protect mankind indirectly by protecting the trivial life on earth and help in balancing the natures cycle. These areas are life for the local tribes. The WLPA, 1972 legislation was passed for the protection of wildlife. But ironically until recently the provisions of the act have not been implemented to full strength. Until the SC intervened the State Board and the National Board were very poor respondents. This statute needs to be revised and amended in various aspects. There should be a section legislated in the WLPA dedicated to the implementation of the provisions and instructions. It should be made mandatory. The authorities in charge need to be penalised in case rules and regulations were flouted. Even though there are rules regarding the entry of people, registration of arms into these areas if someone throws in some cash anything under the sun can be achieved, including flouting the wildlife laws. The main reason is that the base of the whole structure is so weak that nothing can be done. Unless we realise and build the system again from the foundation the future is bleak and is very much predictable. This can be seen the case of Tarun bharath Sangh,Alwar Vs Union of India,1992. Here the government themselves are villains by allowing illegal mining operations in a protected forest. Flouting of wildlife laws has resulted in grave consequences. One such case comes to light about the extinction of tigers from the Sariska Tiger Reserve. In December 2004, all tigers had disappeared from the Sariska Tiger Reserve. In 1973, Project Tiger was established for the conservation of tiger. The shock waves that were created and sent across the country resulted in the establishment of the Tiger Task Force; it was specially formed for the Tiger conservation. Through investigation it was revealed that poaching was the main issue for the dwindling population of tigers. The last six that remained were poached during the last months of 2004. After this devastating story, the wardens are instructed to shoot poachers on sight when they are sighted. Tiger (Panthera tigris) is our national animal. The danger we are putting it through is a heart wrenching story. Now it doesnt even have a place to call home since its struggling with mankind tooth and nail for survival. Joining our national animal are other wildlife species like the lion, Asian elephant, snow leopard etc. Even though these are protected and conserved in areas or reserves they still face the threat of poaching. There are also other reasons that affect the conservation strategies. One of the main reasons is the failure of the forest dwellers or local people in helping to conserve the wildlife. They assist the poachers in killing those animals giving the reason that they are threatened by its presence. Therefore there is no cordial relationship between the management and the local people. But we cannot blame the local people for their action because their whole livelihood is through deriving resources from the forest reserve. The recording and rights of people living near forests and reserves started way back when the acts were legislated but even now many are pending. Many people are still in hope to get their rights so that they can live peacefully with nature. This is a perfect para digm for Man Vs Wild. These conflicts have been present for ages but have increased over the years because humans expand their cities or towns with reference to development. This has resulted in us exploiting their habitat. Other reasons that can lead to threatening the wildlife in their protected abode is illegal activities such as mining, construction, noise etc. Protected areas along with its varied flora and fauna actually conserve the value of the country. Even though these areas are protected half the population of the country are not aware that an Act has been implemented for protection. People dont realise the consequences and the penal codes of the constitution regarding environment. This is basically due to ignorance and illiteracy. Therefore awareness needs to be achieved.MoEF One act of random kindness will change the life of many. Environment and mankind are interlinked. That is because every living thing has a place and a role to play on this planet through a food chain or a food web. So even if one level is disrupted the whole web goes haywire and can result in a catastrophe that man didnt perceive. So if he wants to live he needs to start thinking twice before taking a crucial step. But it doesnt mean that development stops. Development can take place but not at the cost of the environment. Nature should not take the brunt of mans action. Only recently have people started to stand up to the atrocities being done to animals. But even then the response is poor compared to the huge population of India. Man being a greedy animal, has never been satisfied with his life and in the name of development has destroyed the environment. When he does realise the mistakes that he has committed it would be too late to turn back and start again. He is already standing on the edge of the cliff, one wrong move and he sinks without a trace. Being the most intelligent creature ironically man has been doing the most foolish thing of his lifetime. What is life without any morale and values? Are we so inhumane to even listen to the pain that these animals cry out when they are being killed? Are we deaf to the pleas that reverberate out of them and asking us for their help? But instead of helping them we are using them for our benefit. This is what life has become to develop our race we step onto the lives of another. GLOSSARY Art.252 Power of Parliament to legislate for two or more States by consent and adoption of such legislation by any other State. Art.51A(g) It shall be the duty of every citizen of india to protect and improve the natural environment including forests,lakes,rivers and wildlife and to have compassion for living creatures. Entries 17A and 17B Forests and Protection of Wildlife in Concurrent list Art.8 In Situ conservation of protected areas Art.21 Protection of life and personal liberty.-No person shall be deprived of his life or personal liberty except according to procedure established by law. Section 2(37) wild life includes any animal, bees, butterflies, crustacea, fish and moths; and aquatic or land vegetation which form part of any habitat; Section16 notification declaring forest reserved Section 18 Declaration of sanctuary Section 26 A Declaration of area as sanctuary Section 27 Restriction on entry in sanctuary Section 29 Destruction,etc., in a sanctuary prohibited without permit Section 30 Causing fire prohibited No person shall set fire to a sanctuary, or kindle any fire, or leave any fire buring, in such manner as to endanger such sanctuary. Section 31 Prohibition of entry into sanctuary with weapon No person shall enter a sanctuary with any weapon except with the previous permission in writing of the Chief Wild Life Warden or the authorised officer. Section 32 Ban on use of injurious substances a No person shall use, in a sanctuary, chemicals, explosives or any other substances which may cause injury to or endanger, any wild life in such sanctuary

Recent Applications of Keratin

Recent Applications of Keratin Abstract This review discusses the recent applications of keratin and keratin-based materials. Keratin-Based Materials The keratin-based materials are produced from keratin fibers, such as human hair, skin, hooves, feathers, beaks, feet and horns (18). For biomedical and pharmaceutical purposes, human hair is a preferred major source of keratin for several reasons. First, it is available readily from barber and beauty salons. Also, human hair is less prone to cause undesired allergic or immune reactions in a human. Finally, a derived keratin material is able to be made from the hair of a person for whom the keratin-based material will be used (13). Animal feathers are also major resources for keratin extraction. Every year, there are 5 million tons of chicken feathers produced from chicken meat as a waste stream (8). Thus, feathers are abundant source of keratin that can be easily obtained. There are numerous methods to extract the keratin-based material from the keratin sources. One method includes partial oxidization of some disulfide linkages of the keratin with an oxidizing agent, such as peracetic acid, while remaining disulfide linkages are left intact. The partially oxidized hair is powdered and the remaining intact disulfide linkages are cleaved with a reducing agent. An insoluble part of keratin fraction is, then, removed by centrifugation (3, 15). The soluble part, including alpha keratin, is purified and oxidized to reform disulfide linkages between protein backbones (3, 19). The oxidized soluble part is easily dissolved and can form keratin solutions with controlled concentrations (19). The produced keratin solid can be used in a fibrous form when shredded, in a powder form when finely ground, in a hydrogel or viscoelastic hydrogel when hydrated by adding water, or may be used in certain embodiments (13). These materials are used for biomedical, pharmaceutical, biosorbent, and industrial applications. Wound Dressing The optimum wound dressing protects the injured tissue, maintains moisture while being water permeable, is easy to apply, and delivers effective healing agents to the wounded tissue (15). The keratin-based material acts as a non-antigenic wound healing material (3). The keratin-based film is appropriate to be used as a wound dressing. The porous sponge matrices of keratin can play an important role in absorbing wound exudates and in maintaining a healthy and moist environment for healing an injury (16). Also, a hydratable keratin solid powder that is also used in a form of a keratin hydrogel when added water is used as a wound dressing (13). These highly absorbent keratin solid fiber and powder provide an extra benefit along with the water absorbency. This benefit includes healing or soothing peptides associated with the keratin (18). Blanchard et al. (3) tested the keratin power, which would be used to produce a keratin hydrogel when hydrated, as wound healing agent with several donor sites. The sterilized keratin powder is applied on a half of a donor wound site and the other half is treated with a standard treatment. The result shows the halves treated with the keratin powder mature faster and epithelialize more rapidly. Also, the patients with the wounds have significantly less pain with the keratin power treatment (3). Than et al. (4) conducted a study focusing on the effects of the keratin dressing on chronic wounds of different cases. For one of the studied cases, a minimally exudative wound, which had been existed for 11.5 months, was treated with a matrix dressing produced from freeze-dried keratin protein. This dressing allows the rapid growth of new tissue by reabsorbing into the developed tissue. The wound was healed after 30 weeks (Figure 2). Also, the patient had experienced the repeated leg ulcers; yet, the patient stayed ulcer-free after the treatment (4). Figure 1 (1A) Ulcer under keratin-derived matrix dressing treatment at Day 0; (1B) Healed ulcer under keratin-derived matrix dressing treatment at Day 99 (4) Pharmaceutical Siller-Jackson et al. (13) and Van Dyke et al. (18) proposed an invention of the keratin material incorporated with nonwoven film, which can be used in several different applications. One of the applications is that the solid keratin with nonwoven film can form a beneficial drug delivery system when it is incorporated with active pharmaceutical agents. These pharmaceutical agents, including the compounds that may allow ion exchange with sulfonic acid groups of keratin, can be formulated as hydrochlorides, polar agents, protein agents, polypeptide agents, and peptide agents (18). Polypeptide agents include both native and recombinant polypeptides (13). Table 1 provides the list of the classes and types of pharmaceutical agents (13, 18). Table 1 Classes and Types of Pharmaceutical Agents (13, 18) The invention of Van Dyke et al. (18) suggests that the application of the drug delivery system with solid keratin provides several significant advantages. In this system, the properties of the dosage form of a drug can be determined by the chemical and material properties of the keratin, whereas with most delivery systems, the level of a drug is maintained at a consistent concentration with sustained or controlled release. Also, the nonwoven film drug delivery system is performed in non-aqueous media, which is a distinct advantage because non-water soluble drugs are usually troublesome to formulate into convenient dosage forms. Furthermore, keratin can play a dual role of wound dressing and drug delivery system simultaneously, allowing a less intrusive therapy than separate treatments (18). Hemostat Aboushwareb et al. (7) demonstrated the hemostatic characteristics of the human hair keratin hydrogel with the ability to absorb fluid and bind cells successfully. The experiments evaluate the efficacy of human hair keratin hydrogel in a lethal model of liver injury in a rabbit model, compared to other commercial hemostats. The study proved the efficacy of the keratin biomaterials in arresting hemorrhage and increasing the survivability in a model of liver injury, similarly to the compared commercial products.   Also, it was proved that the keratin hydrogel does not produce adverse cell and tissue responses (7). Implant Filler The keratin hydrogel can also be used as an augmentation of soft tissue, including augmentation of vocal chords in order to restore elasticity, and augmentation of breasts, lips, chin, gluteal area, and wrinkled or acne scarred skin in order to improve the appearance of a subject (25). The biocompatible viscoelastic keratin hydrogel is used as an implant filler (25). Such keratin hydrogel provides a natural-appearing and safe implant for reconstructing or filling the human breast, and other tissues. The implant may be used in several ways. One way is that the solid hydrogel implant precursor is hydrated before placing the filler into an implant envelope. Another way is that tissue expanders are contained in an envelope with the keratin hydrogel. This method allows the implant to absorb the body fluids through the envelope and increasing in a volume at a controlled rate, providing a more convenient and comfortable implant compared to traditional implants (18). The keratin hydrogel implants are less toxic than the silicone implants, in case of the risk of a leakage. Also, the keratin fillers give more natural appearance and feeling than saline implants do. Additionally, the keratin implants do not require a second invasive procedure to harvest tissue as fat cells do (18). Biosorbent The interest in the use of biomass for the dissolved metal removal from aqueous solutions has been increasing because of the relatively high cost of the traditional water treatment materials, the complex operational set-up, and the safety precautions (9). The keratin-based material can be used as the purification method of natural and waste water resources contaminated with metal (8). The keratin protein fiber is used to purify heavy metal-contaminated water. The wool keratin has been reported to uptake mercury, copper, silver, cadmium, lead, chromium, and aluminum. Also, mohair keratin has been reported to remove copper (9). Khosa and Ullah (10) have recently presented the application of the keratin biopolymer for the removal of arsenic. Also, Saucedo-Rivalcoba et al. (11) have proposed the use of polyurethane-keratin hybrid membranes in order to absorb and remove hexavalent chromium from water. Rubber Hergenrother et al. (12) has proposed the utilization of keratin as a filler in rubber compositions. This use of keratin in conjunction with coupling agents increases dynamic storage modulus (G) while not affecting the physical properties of the compounds. The keratin filler used is derived from avian feather or feather meal, which has higher bulk density than ground feather. The compounds of the filler are economical and easy to process. Also, these are environmentally friendly because even a small amount of avian feather used will allow the reduced amount of non-renewable fillers, such as carbon black, to be used (12). The keratin filler used for rubber is beta-keratin-based and water-insoluble. Keratin from feathers is relatively economic, is non-toxic, has a high melting point, is light-weight, and is a biodegradable renewable material. Therefore, the reinforcing keratin filler will help produce sustainable products that uses rubber, such as tires. Diapers / Feminine Hygiene Products The absorbent materials are capable of absorbing body fluids such as urine and menses. Thus, the absorbent materials are included in the products that are used next to the skin. Such materials can be derived from wood pulp, cellulosic fibers, or synthetically produced superabsorbent (13, 18). An inner core of diapers and feminine hygiene products is designed to absorb water and urine. It is commonly formed with a superabsorbent polymer that is dispersed in a larger amount of less absorbent material.   Yet, even the absorbent materials are separated from the skin with at least one layer of materials, the skin contact with such materials have been causing irritation and not beneficial (13, 18). The keratin-based absorbent or hydratable solid, in forms of powder or hydrogel, is a natural material that can absorb body fluids, and is beneficial with respect to diaper rash. The hydratable keratin solid can be coated either on a layer next to the skin of a subject or on a layer separated from the skin by a water permeable layer (13, 18). For both diapers and feminine hygiene products, the hydratable keratin solid can be used in an inner absorbent core. The keratin materials may be associated with a nonwoven layer of product, or coated on a layer of a product, or permeated into a layer of a product (13, 18). Keratin Hydrolysate Similar to the keratin-based material sources, keratin hydrolysates are prepared from human hair, wool, animal hair, feathers and horns (21). The recent method of the keratin hydrolysate production utilizes chicken feathers with Bacillus subtilis (21, 22). Vermelho et al. (21) and Villa et al. (22) have suggested that the useful bacterium for the production is Bacillus subtilis.   Villa et al. (22) proposed an effective method that produces a clear hydrolysate (22). Feathers are transformed into keratin peptides and amino acid by peptidases and keratinases, produced by Bacillus subtilis (Figure 2) (22).   From this process, the keratin hydrolysates are produced enzymatically (21). Figure 2 (A) Control: Bacillus subtilis in feather containing medium at Day 0; (B) Growth in feather medium at Day 5 (22) Such method is also environmental friendly because it recycles and helps reducing the feather waste, which is the byproduct of the poultry industry (27). The keratin hydrolysate is majorly used for cosmetics applications. Cosmetics The keratin hydrolysates can be used in various cosmetic applications, such as hair and skin applications (21). Villa et al. (22) effectively proved that the enzymatic production of keratin peptides from feathers is significantly affective in hair care products. The keratin peptides improve the hair fiber hydration and seal cuticles in the hair fibers with the hydrolysates, which increase the shine and softness of the hair (22). Barba et al. (24) conducted a long-term study to find the beneficial effect of the topical application of the wool keratin peptides. The study was performed on undisturbed kin to determine the efficacy of the two keratin peptide samples, one with an aqueous keratin formulation and another with liposome formulation mixed with the aqueous keratin solution. Both of the keratin peptide samples showed very close result with the increase of the hydration of the skin. Also, the treated skin with both samples was resulted with increased skin elasticity (24). The keratin-based hydrogel is capable of facilitating the regeneration of peripheral nerves. Sierpinski et al. (5) showed that the keratin hydrogel enhances the in vitro activity of Schwann cells, led from the increase of cellular proliferation and migration, and the upregulated gene expression. References 1. Rouse, J.G.; Van Dyke, M.E., A Review of Keratin-Based Biomaterials for Biomedical Applications, Materials 2010, 3 (2), 999-1014. 2. Silva, R.; Fabry, B.; Boccaccini, A.R., Fibrous Protein-Based Hydrogels for Cell Encapsulation, Biomaterials 2014, 35 (25), 6727-6738. 3. Blanchard, C.R.; Timmons, S. .; Smith, R.A., Keratin-Based Hydrogel for Biomedical Applications and Method of Production, U.S. Patent 6,379,690, April 30, 2002. 4. Than, M.P.; Smith, R.A.; Hammond, C.; Kelly, R.; Marsh, C.; Maderal, A.D.; Kirsner, R.S., Keratin-Based Wound Care Products for Treatment of Resistant Vascular Wounds, J. Clin. Aesthet. Dermatol. 2012, 5(12), 31-35. 5. Sierpinski, P.; Garrett, J.; Ma, J.; Apel, P.; Klorig, D.; Smith, T.; Koman, L.A.; Atala, A.; Van Dyke, M., The Use of Keratin Biomaterials Derived from Human Hair for the Promotion of Rapid Regeneration of Peripheral Nerves, Biomaterials 2008, 29 (1), 118-128. 6. Apel, P.J.; Garrett, J.P.; Sierpinski, P.; Ma, J.; Atala, A.; Smith, T.L.; Koman, L.A.; Van Dyke, M.E., Peripheral Nerve Regeneration Using a Keratin-Based Scaffold: Long-Term Functional and Historical Outcomes in a Mouse Model, J. Hand. Surg.2008, 33A, 1541-1547. 7. Aboushwareb, T.; Eberli, D.; Ward, C.; Broda, C.; Holcomb, J.; Atala, A.; Van Dyke, M., A Keratin Biomaterial Gel Hemostat Derived from Human Hair: Evaluation in a Rabbit Model of Lethal Liver Injury, J. Biomed. Mater. Res. Part B Appl. Biomater. 2008, 90B (1), 45-54. 8. Khosa, M.A.; Ullah, A., A Sustainable Role of Keratin Biopolymer in Green Chemistry: A Review, J. Food Processing Beverages 2013, 1 (1), 8-15. 9. Kar, P.; Misra, M., Use of Keratin Fiber for Separation of Heavy Metals from Water, J. Chem. Technol. Biotechnol. 2004, 79 (11), 1313-1319. 10. Khosa, M.A.; Ullah, A., In-situ Modification, Regeneration, and Application of Keratin Biopolymer for Arsenic Removal, J. Hazard. Mater. 2014, 278, 360-371. 11. Saucedo-Rivalcoba, V.; Martinez-Hernà ¡ndez, A.L.; Martinez-Barrera, G.; Belascco-Santos, C.; Rivera-Armenta, J.L.; Castaà ±o, V.M., Removal of Hexavalent Chromium from Water by Polyurethane-Keratin Hybrid Membranes, Water, Air, Soil Pollut. 2011, 218 (1-4), 557-571. 12. Hergenrother, W.L.; Shltz, L.L.; Lin, C.J., Keratin in Rubber Applications, U.S. Application 14/492,835, January 8, 2015. 13. Siller-Jackson, A.J.; Van Dyke, M.E.; Timmons, S.F.; Blanchard, C.R.; Smith, R.A., Keratin-Based Powders and Hydrogel for Pharmaceutical Applications, U.S. Patent 6,544,548 B1, April 8, 2003. 14. Kelly, R.J.; Ali, M.A.; Roddick-Lanzilotta, A.D.; Worth, G.; Hassan, M.M.; McLaughlin, J.R.; McKinnon, A.J., Composite Materials Containing Keratin, U.S. Patent 7,767,756 B2, August 3, 2010. 15. Timmons, S.F.; Blanchard, C.R.; Smith, R.A., Keratin-Based Tissue Engineering Scaffold, U.S. Patent 6,432,435 B1, August 13, 2002. 16. Kelly, R.J.; Roddick-Lanzilotta, A.D.; Ali, M.A., Wound Care Products Containing Keratin, U.S. Patent 7,732,574 B2, June 8, 2010. 17. Kelly, R.J.; Worth, G.H.; Roddick-Lanzilotta, A.D.; Rankin, D.A.; Ellis, P.; Mesman, J.R.; Summers, C.G.; Singleton, D.J., Production of Soluble Keratin Derivatives, U.S. Patent 7,148,327 B2, December 12, 2006. 18. Van Dyke, M.E.; Timmons, S.F.; Blanchard, C.R.; Siller-Jackson, A.J.; Smith, R.A., Absorbent Keratin Wound Dressing, U.S. Patent 6,270,793 B1, August 7, 2001. 19. Wu, C.; Li, J.; Wicks, D.; Morgan, S.; Smith, R.A., Hydratable Keratin Compositions, U.S. Application 11/920,456, August 11, 2011. 20. Van Dyke, M.E.; Blanchard, C.R.; Timmons, S.F.; Siller-Jackson, A.J.; Smith, R.A., Implantable prosthetic or Tissue Expanding Device, U.S. Patent 6,849,092 B2, February 1, 2005. 21. Vermelho, A.B.; Villa, A.L.V.; Mazotto de Almeida, A.M.; de Souza Dias, E.P.; dos Santos, E.P., Keratin Hydrolysates, Process for Their Production and Cosmetic Composition Containing the Same, U.S. Application 12/666,409, August 5, 2010. 22. Villa, A.L.V.; Aragà £o, M.R.S.; Santos, E.P.D.; Mazotto, A.M.; Zingali, R.B.; de Souza, E.P.; Vermelho, A.B., Feather Keratin Hydrolysates Obtained from Microbial Keratinases: Effect on Hair Fiber, BMC Biotechnol. 2013, 13 (1), 15 23. Weathersby, C.; McMichael, A., Brazilian Keratin Hair Treatment: A Review, J. Cosmet. Dermatol. 2013, 12 (2), 144-148. 24. Barba, C.; Mà ©ndez, S.; Roddick-Lanzilotta, A.; Kelly, R.; Parra, J.L.; Coderch, L., Cosmetic Effectiveness of Topically Applied Hydrolysed Keratin Peptides and Lipids Derived from Wool, Skin Res. Tech. 2008, 14, 243-248. 25. Van Dyke, M.E.; Blanchard, C.R.; Timmons, S.F.; Siller-Jackson, A.J.; Smith, R.A., Water Absorbent Keratin and Gel Formed Therefrom, U.S. Patent 6,316,598 B1, November 13, 2001. 26. Misra, M.; Kar, P.; Priyadarshan, G., Keratin Protein Nano-fiber for Removal of Heavy Metals and Contaminants, Mat. Res. Soc. Symp. Proc. 2002, 702, 27. Cedrola, S.M.; de Melo, A.C.; Mazotto, A.M.; Lins, U.; Zingali, R.B.; Rosado, A.S.; Peixoto, R.S.; Vemelho, A.B., Keratinases and sulfide from Bacillus subtilis SLC to Recycle Feather Waste, World J. Microbiol. Biotechnol. 2012, 28, 1259-1269.

Inaugural Address to the People of the US :: essays research papers

Inaugeral Address to the People of the US   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Hello ladies and gentleman, citizens of the United States of America. Today I will be reading to you my inaugural address, and will hopefully cover any and all issues or questions you may have about why you should, and trust me, you should, vote for me to be your president. The ten issues I will be addressing in my speech are: education, medical care, employment, welfare, crime, drug trafficking, language, environment, media, and abortion. Let me start with education.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Education is not something to be taken lightly. To many kids today are not getting sufficient education, starting as soon as kindergarten. My plan for education is to set guidelines and standards that will be relevant in every school. By a certain grade, each student should have been taught everything sufficient for that level of education. This way all students will have been taught the same amount of information at the same time. I would take away AP classes and instead put children who learn at an accelerated rate in their choice of a grade above their current level, or at a school specifically designed for children of their intelligence. This way in public schools, children not in AP classes will not in any way feel inferior. I will press for smaller classes, and more teachers, that way, children can get more individual attention that so many of them need. I will also make it so that colleges must pay more attention to the motivation of the student rather then the grade point average. To often high school students get rejected from colleges because their grade point average doesn’t meet the standards of a certain school.

Passionate About Teaching Essay example -- Personal Narrative Educatio

Ending Statement Feminist and Critical Pedagogies I came back to graduate school last semester at the ripe-old age of 31, unsure of what I wanted to get out of it. I had spent a year in graduate studies in English at the University of Maine about six years earlier, but left because I wasn't ready to commit to an academic life. In the six years since I left Maine, my life had been anything but academic. For the first year or so, I "temped" at conventions and tradeshows, went on auditions and performed in regional theater. Then a friend of mine introduced me to her acting teacher, and I got involved in a two-year intensive acting program which forced me to look at myself and my life deeply (and luckily got me into therapy)! During that time I began a temp job at a small executive search firm where a few acting friends also worked. The job turned permanent and lasted over three years while I finished my acting program and began auditioning. Looking back now, I guess the problem was, once I finished class, I wasn't the same person who h ad originally gone out on auditions. I found myself reading books on writing (never acting) on my lunch breaks from the stifling office secretarial job. But people who asked about my life heard about my auditions and singing classes and wish to be on Broadway. I never looked at the fact that that wish was a very old, childhood wish which had slowly stopped giving me what it had for so long: something to dream about, aspire to. Something, I now admit, to make me interesting. The decision to leave it behind was painful (no one outside of "the business" could understand why I would want to leave behind such a glorious, exciting dream. Interestingly, all of my friends who were at various levels of s... ...at at least I now know that I need to teach--in some format, somewhere, and I need to apply what I've learned and continue to learn and question my own learning. But I can't decide if going on for a PhD is really what I want anymore. I always thought that was the mark of success. But I wonder if it will really allow me to work with the students I am most interested in helping. I am particularly interested in working with those who didn't get enough out of school but who decided to come back and give it another try, to see if they'd find something different this time around. I want to provide something different. I know I want to keep teaching and talking about teaching. I know I want to keep the hope that teaching writing is valuable and opens up possibilities for students who maybe thought they had none. Is that too naive? Maybe. But it seems like it's worth a try.

The Character of Enorbarbus in William Shakespeares Antony and Cleopat

The Character of Enorbarbus in William Shakespeare's Antony and Cleopatra Enobarbus’s character can be seen as the most striking invention of Shakespeare. As the lieutenant of Antony, he contributes to the drama in a number of ways. He is sympathetic to Antony from the start, loyal and fellow feeling. Instead of agreeing with Antony at the beginning where he says he wishes he had never met Cleopatra, Enobarbus replies that, had that been the case, Antony would have missed â€Å"a wonderful piece of work†. (I.2.154-5). He does not share the perspective of his fellow Roman soldiers Philo and Demetrius in the opening scene, in fact he seems to enjoy life in Egypt contributing with appreciative comments on Cleopatra. â€Å"Age cannot wither her, nor custom stale her infinite variety. (149 II.2.245) When Antony says of Cleopatra, â€Å"She is cunning past man’s thought†, Enobarbus disagrees, â€Å"Alack, sir, no: her passions are made of/ nothing but the finest part of pure love† (I.2.146-8). In their conversations at the beginning and in his role throughout, Enobarbus seems to represent an ordinary reflection of something in Antony himself, as in a mirror. His humour in response to the announcement of Fulvia’s death, anticipate the jovial side of Antony that will manifest itself in the galley scene. Before the triumvirs meet, the diplomatic Lepidus tries to persuade Enobarbus to keep Antony calm. Enobarbus however refuses saying that he much prefers that Antony should speak his mind. He reminds Antony and Caesar that there will be time enough to quarrel after they have disposed of Pompey. To Antony’s criticize, â€Å"Thou art a soldier onl... ...ssenger. In a soliloquy â€Å"Now he’ll outstare the lightning† (III.13.194-200) he sees through Antony’s bombastic rhetoric and comes to his decision to leave Antony. As Antony addresses his servants as if for the last time, Enobarbus protests that he is â€Å"onion-eyed (IV.2.35). Antony’s reaction to his desertion, â€Å"O, my fortunes have Corrupted honest men!† (IV.2.35) and his decision to send his treasure to him confirm all that is said of Antony’s â€Å"bounty†. The guilt felt by Enobarbus and his subsequent depression and loss of will are clearly shown. â€Å"No honourable trust. I have done ill, of which I do accuse myself† (239.IV.35) But his death in mental torment and the consciousness of disgrace are proof of the fact that Antony’s â€Å"fortunes have/ Corrupted honest men† give a wider dimension to the tragedy of the protagonists.

Anth. 3 Types of Rewards

There are three types of rewards that may or may not be equally distributed within a society. These rewards include wealth, power and prestige. Furthermore, there are three basic types of societies identified by Morton Fried in which the equal or non-equal distribution of these rewards may occur. These societies include that of an egalitarian society, a ranked society, and a stratified society. Egalitarian societies do not rely on wealth or power. Instead, people in this type of society do gain prestige through age, valuable skills, and an attractive personality. Everything is shared equally within this society and there is no reason for wealth because they tend to be a mobile type of society such as the hunter gatherers, and they are not able to bring many possessions with them. Therefore, there is no accumulation of wealth among the people of this society. The ! Kung are an example of a egalitarian society. They have little possessions, which usually denotes wealth in Western culture. They are an extremely mobile people who travel to find food. Therefore, they have no need for possessions because they are not able to bring them with them. They also work on a system of reciprocal sharing. Therefore, this prevents people from gathering wealth or power over others. As a result of being foraging people they have the option of leaving if one person within the band tries to take power over others. In ranked societies, there are a limited number of social positions which grant authority over others in the society. These positions are mostly always gained through heredity. Power and prestige are given to those in high social rank, which usually falls upon the eldest in the lineage. Wealth is usually distributed among the society equally through redistribution. The Tikopia society is an example of a ranked society. The 1200 people of the island were divided into 4 patriclans and each patriclan had its own chief. There are also clan chiefs who have the most authority over others. However, they did not have great power over others within the society because they believed that each had rights to the land and ocean resources within the clan. They were honored but their wealth and power was not great, seeing as they used the system of redistribution. In stratified societies, the rewards of wealth, power, or prestige are not equally distributed within the society. There are two distinguishing characteristics in stratified societies. The first characteristic being inequalities between strata in access to rewards such as wealth power and prestige because they may be obtained through heredity. Secondly, there may be unequal access to resources. There are two types of stratified systems in the world today. The first of these is the caste system. The course text defines a caste system as a â€Å"stratification system in which membership is a stratum is in theory hereditary, strata are endogamous, and contact or relationships among members of different strata are governed by explicit laws, norms, or prohibition. A widely used example of a caste system is in place today in India. Those who are born into the highest caste can look forward to a very promising future filled with wealth and prestige. Those born into the lowest caste have a life of hard labor and no chance of advancement. There are strict laws to enforce marriage between people of differ ent caste, and even social relationships among people of different castes. The second type of social system is known as a class system. A class system is defined in the text as, â€Å"a system in which membership in a stratum can theoretically be altered and intermarriage between strata is allowed. An example of a class system would be that of our own western culture. The easiest way to determine class for our culture is through wealth. The more wealth you have the higher your class, but it differs from that of the caste system because you are able to have social relations with people outside of your own class and you are able to move up in class. Even if born into a â€Å"lower† class you are able to gain access to schools, have access to resources, and are able to marry outside of you

Why A Good Sense Of Communication Is Important

While the student spends a lot Of their time in school, the student spends just as much mime, if not more, at home. It is important for the teacher and the parents or guardians to be on the same page and work as a team when it comes to behavior and academics. Another area where educators need good communication skills is in the school, as well as in the community. By communicating with all of the other teachers who will be involved in your students education (librarian, PEE teacher, computer teacher, etc. One can ensure that they know every aspect of that child's day, and can paint a clearer picture of how to educate that child in a more efficient way. Communities can also play a large role in a student's fife. By properly communicating with the community and keeping everyone informed of what is expected in the school, concerning both education and behavior, one can help make the learning experience more rounded. Including important members of the community in different lesson plans, and even career days can inspire and motivate a class.The last area that communication is vital is probably the most important. The communication between the student and the teacher is incredibly important. If the teacher and the educator don't communicate properly, the educator with have no way of knowing how to meet the student's needs. The teacher will also have no way of knowing if there is a problem within the class, or if a student Isn't learning properly or effectively.Without communication between the teacher and the student, learning and education is nearly pointless. In conclusions, communication is key in education. It is important for not only the families of the students to stay informed, but the student himself, the school, and the community as well.

Meditation Worksheet

Directions: Locate two resources on the Internet that explain meditation techniques. Copy and paste the Web address into the top of the matrix. After reviewing the Web site, provide a brief summary for each source. Below your summary, list two interesting facts you learned from each site. Try the techniques you located in your Internet search. Provide a brief description of what happened in your experience. Summary of resource:Meditation is a form of stress management that will allow our mind to experience an oasis of peace and love within our heart and mind. Meditation gave me back control over my life so that no matter what was happening externally whether it was positive or negative I could still develop control over my thoughts and thus control the emotions and feeling in my mind. NO one can control eradicate adversity in life but you can master the way you respond in regards to your thinking processes. Take control now master your mind through one of the meditation techniques and you will forever be able to be the peaceful beacon in the eye of the storm of any adversity. The basis for attaining an experience in raja yoga meditation in to understand the self and the mind. The human mind is the most creative, powerful and wonderful â€Å"instrument† we possess. Using this energy called mind we have been able to search the deepest oceans, send humans to the moon and scan the molecular fabric of the building blocks of nature. But have we found our true self? We have become the most educated and civilized society in our history, but are we civil towards each other? The soul has three main faculties; the mind or consciousness, the intellect and the subconscious. by the Brahma Kumaris Raja Yoga meditation organization. Two interesting Facts: So what I have read and learned of meditation is it is a way to lift up all bad energy from one’s body and it is a way to lower ones stress level to a normal level. It is a way to make one’s mind a peaceful place and in hopes of treating others like they are human too. Not only that, but most meditations help heal the body as well. Meditation allows one’s mind to open up to a peaceful place and it allows the stress to flow right out and it does have the power to heal the mind and soul. This in turns makes you feel loving and peaceful to other around you. That is what I got out of reading the facts I found. So my understanding of this particular meditation is more focused on ones three main faculties the mind or consciousness, the intellect and the subconscious. This meditation helps the mind and the other one is more for your body and mind. What intrigues me the most about this Raja meditation is that it is ran by women. Did you know that Raja meditation is what we have discussed in our class? It talks about the brain in how it is the power of our bodies. It also talks about the conscious mind and they talk about how feelings and emotions form in accordance with the montage of thoughts flowing in the mind. Therefore our state of mind at any given moment is determined by the thoughts in our consciousness, and also with the feelings that we associate with those thoughts. What happened after you tried each technique?Well, I felt like a weight had been lifted off of my mind and body. I am able to think more clearly and see everything around me as an equal. I tried this after my daughter spit grape juice all over my floor and I found myself not being so angry about it, but now I look at it as that she is a one year old who does not know any better and I am not as mad as I was at the beginning. I like the Raja meditation because it deals with our minds. When I tried this technique I found myself in a nicer state of mind. I was able to think clearly and I was able to appreciate life a little more than I did before. I was able to focus better on my homework while drowning out the extra noise around me. With both techniques I was more pleasant to be around and I was less moody. 1.Do you think meditation leads to heightened sensation and perception? Explain why or why not. Oh yes I do think it does lead to heightened sensations because when you allow your mind to open up to a different place you can actually feel it. Say you do the first meditation that I have tried. It takes your mind to any place you want to go. So when you get there you can feel the warm breeze on your face and smell the ocean air. You are able to hear the waves crashing on the rocks and sand and hear the gulls flying around in the sky. You can actually see the blue skies and the few white puffy clouds. It is amazing where one’s mind can take you. 2.Have you considered integrating meditation into your own lifestyle? If so, list one strategy for fitting meditation into your schedule. If not, explain why. Yes I have once brought meditation in my life when I was in high school. I think I need to bring it back to my life now because it has been so stressful and depressing. I plan to put in when I get up and when I go to bed. If for some reason I need it during the day I will find a quiet place to meditate for 15 minutes then I will go back to what I was doing with an open mind. There really is no reason why I cannot put a little me time in the day. I think everyone should be able to at least do some meditation in their day. Who knows maybe it might make the world a better place if they meditate.