NTSB Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

NTSB - Essay Example The transport industry involves key players in the process of carrying out an investigation because of the knowledge they hold on specific issues. The central research process, however, is the responsibility of the National Transportation Safety Board. The party process is the involvement of other parties in the investigation process. Some of the agencies in the party process include the Federal Railroad Administration, the United States Coast Guard, and the Federal Highway Administration. The process aids the National Transportation Safety Board gather the required background data used in creating a report to the Board Members appointed by the President. The members of the board are the only five people given the mandate to determine the cause of an accident conclusively. An independent relationship between the parties limits the agencies in the party process (Mintzer 2012). The parties involved in causing an accident are not involved in the investigation to enhance the credibility of the process. The party process ensures that the research process is done in an effective way exhausting all the probabilities of the cause of the accident. The party process also assists the National Transportation Safety Board in the investigation of accidents by providing the necessary resources like skilled labor and technologic al tools to conduct the

The Hot Zone by Richard Preston Essay Example for Free

The Hot Zone by Richard Preston Essay A proficient U S journalist and author of the 1994 bestseller The Hot Zone, A Terrifying True Story, Richard Preston’s creative capabilities revolve around alarming disease epidemics and bio- terrorism. The research by Preston for his 1992 New Yorker article, â€Å"Crisis in the Hot Zone† forms the basis of this non-fiction bio-thriller. The Hot Zone delineates a dramatic, chilling and realistic tale of an Ebola virus outbreak, which occurs in a monkey storage warehouse in a suburban Washington D. C. laboratory in 1989. In this laboratory, monkeys being used in scientific experiments quickly sicken and die due to a filovirus. It tells about an explosive chain of lethal transmissions begins far from Washington, D.C. laboratory and allows the lab to become a ‘hot zone’. Preston goes on meticulously about how these viruses work and the symptoms that appear in human beings. He traces the history of these viruses from their discovery and examines their first known index cases in detail. He also delves deeply into tales of previous lethal outbreaks in Africa out of these filoviruses. The Hot Zone employs a four fold structure. The first section of this non- fiction, â€Å"The Shadow of Mount Elgon† acts as the exposition of the story. It zeroes- in on the history of the infective agents and speculation about the origin of AIDS. The reader is introduced to the Marburg Virus, via people who have contracted it. This section narrates the story of Charles Monet who caught Marburg from Kitum Cave in Central Africa. It analyses in detail the progress of the disease, from the initial headache and backache, to the last stage in which Monet’s internal organs bleed out and fail in Nairobi hospital. The second part of the book entitled â€Å"The Monkey House† portrays the discovery of Ebola Reston Virus among imported monkeys in Reston, Virginia. This also includes tidbits on what steps have been taken to decontaminate the infected beings. The third section, â€Å"Smashdown† serves as the climax of the story. Here, the major characters like Major Nancy Jaax, Colonel Jerry Jaax, Dan Dalgard, Gene Johnson, and Colonel C J Peters etc must encounter the virus face- to-face in the monkey house. Some hair- raising events are there during the destruction of animals, like an escape of one monkey and failures in the protective suits worn by personnel. The fourth section, entitled â€Å"Kitum Cave†, signals the denouement of the story. Here Preston reflects on the origin and spread of AIDS. The Hot Zone highlights the impact of lethal viruses on human and animal population. The stars of the hot zone are these two viruses, Marburg and Ebola. These are considered to be ancient and their potential to eradicate huge masses is really high, as more and more humans encroach on the rain forest. There are well- establish cases in which Ebola and Marburg have been transmitted from captive monkeys to humans. Preston points out in The Hot Zone that these viruses have ‘jumped species’ from monkeys to humans at the time human activity is upsetting the habitat and survival of her primates. His first case history of Charles Monet exemplifies this. Charles Monet, a French expatriate working in a sugar plantation in Kenya, becomes mysteriously ill after visiting Kitum Cave. He experiences head aches and back aches for several days before spiking a fever and vomits huge amounts of blood with black specks. Finally the virus, Marburg completely devours him. In 1989, Ebola traveled to Reston, Virginia in a shipment of a hundred crab eating monkeys from the Philippines, imported by Hazleton Research products for medical and pharmaceutical research. The final irony is that one version of Ebola turned out not to be toxic in humans. The author also creates an effectual atmosphere of fear by showing that doctors, who are almost always viewed as being heroic, can so easily contract this virus. The Hot Zone is a Jurassic park with germs, not of dinosaurs. Here Preston constantly reminds of how tiny and how hazardous a virus is. The impact of Ebola or Marburg could destroy the entire planet if it got a grip. Within 24 hours, a virus could make its way out of Africa on a plane and into such places like London, Paris, or New York and then spread out to the rest of the world. The tiny HIV virus has already spread destruction throughout the human population of the globe, and this is a point the author drives home again and again. A very minute amount of contaminated blood is enough to infect a human with the Ebola virus, so those working in the Hot Zone must constantly be careful for the smallest little tear that might allow it into their space suits. Preston makes an effort to draw attention to the AIDS epidemic in this bio –thriller. The HIV virus was in reality just making its way into the human population about the time that Charles Monet contracted Marburg. It appears that the origins of Marburg and HIV are almost similar. Both seem to have originated in African monkeys, and they undergo genetic change and ‘jump’ into human beings. C.J. Peters spends some time comparing AIDS and Ebola, as well. In the last section of the novel, the author explains the idea that as humans capture and destroy more and more of the rain forests, they may discharge many more unidentified viruses. It is as if the viruses act as the forests immune system, which is truly ironic since HIV and AIDS destroy the human immune system. In the book, Preston emphasizes the potential of such a little beasts, that are only microns in size, to wipe out the human population of the planet. In fact, the strength and appeal of this book come from the fear evoked in the reader. The gruesome, horrific deaths of Charles Monet, Nurse Mayinga, and Peter Cardinal set the reader in tension and dread of what will happen if the virus at Reston jumps into the human population. The majority of The Hot Zone is written from the third-person omniscient point of view. The author is not simply composing characters thoughts and emotions. This book recounts a true story, and Richard Preston interviewed many people to learn directly from those involved. Therefore, the reason the author is able to be omniscient is because he has taken great pains to be accurate in his telling of the tale. If he describes someones internal reaction to an event, he is relating what that person told him. He is also careful to give credibility to everyones viewpoints in the cases where people have conflicting recollections of a sequence of events. There are a few places in which the point of view switches to first person. This is a result of the authors reporting on his interviews with the various people engaged in the crisis at Reston, as well as those involved in earlier Ebola outbreaks. This serves to remind the reader that the story is not a piece of fiction, and it also allows the author to tell portions of the story in the participants own words. There are multiple settings in the book because it spans a long period of time (1980 to 1993) and follows viruses all over the world. Much of the African portion of the story takes place in Kenya and Sudan, and the real centerpiece is Kitum Cave in Western Kenya. The story starts and ends there though under very different circumstances. On the international level, there are also references to the Marburg virus stint in Germany, and a monkey farm in the Philippines. Aside from these brief mentions, the true settings of the story are Africa and the United States. The fact that the potential Ebola outbreak is happening so near the capital of one of the most powerful nations on earth definitely adds to the tension of the story. The language used in The Hot Zone is very explanatory. The novel could easily have been a litany of medical terms and acronyms. It is a factual story involving science, medicine, government, and military. The author is concerned with drawing the reader into the story. He wants to generate such a vivid picture that it is sporadically quite upsetting. Richard Prestons capacity to write literature is also obvious. His use of imagery is very successful. By the time there is an outbreak in the monkey house, the reader has been thoroughly apprised of the terribly agonizing, fierce death that awaits anyone infected by the virus. Throughout the entire story, Preston amalgamates scientific perception with fictional writing. Works Cited Preston, Richard. The Hot Zone. New York: Anchor, 1995. Litsum.com Hot Zone Stuff. 2007. http://acaclassof2010studyguides.blogspot.com  Ã‚  Ã‚     Ã‚  Ã‚  \2007\09\litsumcom-hot-zone-stuff.html

The Strength Of Destination: Jamaica

The Strength Of Destination: Jamaica To effectively manage and market destination Jamaica for visitors appeal, close attention is required as it relates to the advertising and selling of the destination likewise the maintenance of the tourism product to attract visitors. Promote special events that can attract visitors throughout the year and enhance the image of the destination overseas. The Jamaica Tourist Board can promote special events like Reggae Summer Festival and Jazz and Blues Concert. These events attract thousands of international visitors from all over the world annually. However through this market our music is marketed throughout the world and has put reggae music atop the charts internationally. This special event has also attracted artist, producers, promoters and visitors which increase the number of visitors entering the country within that given period. Exploit the advantages of internet technology to market Jamaica. There are different reasons why people exploit the internet technology to advertise and market a destination or a distinctive product. One of the major advantages is that advertising on the internet is cost efficient and is more conducive to users of the World Wide Web. Millions of people are online each day and therefore they can view advertisements whenever they want. In addition, it allows for target marketing which is more effective on the internet than anywhere else. Likewise, internet marketing allows for interaction and feedback from viewers through surveys, reports, tweets etc. and therefore this also help to overcome barriers of distance. Promote a greater awareness locally of the importance of tourism in the Jamaica economy through the local communication programs. The Jamaica Tourist Board can assist local residence of the significance of becoming more aware of tourism in the Jamaica economy by launching a Jamaica tourism awareness program that will not only educate locals about tourism but also inform them about the importance of preserving the environment for sustainable development. The importance of tourism in the Jamaica economy can be brought across to locals through other forms of communication programs such as seminars, workshops and cultural trade shows. Promote Jamaica to Jamaicans The program that is used to promote Jamaica to Jamaicans is called experience Jamaica. Although we are citizens of the beautiful destination Jamaica not very often do we explore the opportunities of experiencing the different aspects of tourism offered throughout destination Jamaica due to cost constrain. However this program is designed with the aim of giving locals such privileges. All attractions and special hotels within the destination is packaged at a special reduce rate and sold to locals allowing them the opportunity to experience Jamaica affordably. Achieve a greater integration with Jamaica Vacation and Jamaica Reservation Service so that the combined efforts of these agencies will have full impact on the market place. The Jamaica Vacation is the company that is responsible for getting airlift into the country and likewise the Jamaica Reservation Service both companies combined together will ensure that visitors are secured for both airlift and hotel accommodation into the country. SWOT analysis of the techniques that were used in question 1. The SWOT analysis can simply be described as the strength, weakness, opportunities and threats which focus on the micro and macro environment. However, according to the Jamaica Tourist Board, the SWOT analysis is the fundamental strategy which is used to accentuate the positives, reduce the negatives as far as possible, exploit the opportunities, and at the same time, recognize the threats. STRENGTH OF DESTINATION JAMAICA The Flag, Jamaica flag is the most recognized throughout the world because of its unique combination of colours with each depicting a different significant meaning. Black, representing the hardship of the people of the nation. Green, the luscious mountains. And last but not least Gold, the magnificent sunshine. The Climate: unlike other countries that experience snow and weather of different kind, destination Jamaica is blessed to have tropical weather all year round which attract visitor to our island. The Language: Jamaica is the premier English speaking destination throughout the Caribbean with a blend of creole which is so unique that all visitors who are vacationing in Jamaica will want to learn the language. The Geographic Location: Jamaica on the Greater Antilles is situated 150 kilometers south of Cuba and 160 kilometers west of Haiti. Jamaica is the largest of the West Indian island. It has an area of 11,424 square kilometers, and is 243 kilometers long. Jamaica is in close proximity to the United States. Special Events: Jamaica host some of the best events throughout the year such as Jamaica jazz and blues festival in the month of January, Bob Marley Birthday Celebrations in the month of February, Soul Rebellion Spring Break Party held in March, Trelawny Yam Festival in April, 20th Annual Jamaica Product Exchange (JAPEX) in May, Ocho Rios Jazz Festival in June, Portland Jerk Festival in July, Mello-Go-Round, Independence and Emancipation Celebration in August, Wine and Food Festival in September, Jamaica Product Exchange 11 in October, Port Royal Music Festival and Restaurant Week in November and New Years Harbour Festival and Fireworks in December. This goes to show some of the most popularly listed events that attract visitors to destination Jamaica on numerous occasions throughout the year. Accessibility: Destination Jamaica is easily accessible by air at anyone of our three international airports. Donald Sangsters International Airport in Montego Bay. Norman Manley International Airport in Kingston and the Ian Flemings International Airport in Boscobel. It is also accessible by land and by sea at anyone of our three cruise ship pier whether it is Montego Bay, Falmouth or Ocho Rios. Easily Trained Staff: wherever we go we easily adapt to changes and do not require much training to effectively carry out a given task. Culture: The rich and diverse culture and heritage of Jamaica is renowned throughout the world. Jamaica multicultural history is best summarized in the national motto: Out of many, one people. Tourism Product: the 3 S which makes up the tourism product sun, sea and sand. Agricultural opportunities: According to the Jamaica observer published April 30, 2009 Jamaica outstanding performance at the Beijing Olympics brought new focus on Jamaican food yam and tubers in particular which in some quarter was credited for Usain Bolts meteoric and historic achievements. In addition, imploring investors to take advantage of the opportunity to invest in Jamaica. Culture and historical heritage: Jamaica culture and historical heritage aptly describes the music, cuisine, tradition, art and clothing, religion and folk lore. Bauxite and Alumina: considered the most important sector of Jamaican economy accounting for about 10% GDP, Enabling Jamaica to become the leading bauxite producer in the world. Renewable energy sources supply: The country has the advantages of utilizing renewable energy sources which comprise wind energy, solar thermal, wave energy and gas from animal waste just to name a few. Focus on prudent fiscal management: maintain fiscal records and procedures of the agency that provides protection for the resources of the agency as well as records and procedures which generate economy effectiveness and operation efficiency. Tax Administration Development Airlift, including the national airline Caribbean Airline formerly Air Jamaica WEAKNESS OF DESTINATION JAMAICA Image in the market place, unsafe destination Insufficient schedule air service from some markets for example Europe Lack of man-made attractions/development of natural attractions Lack of enough large facilities to adequately host large meetings and conventions over 300 people Crime and culture of indiscipline and lawlessness Poor human rights system Poor representation of electors Low literacy and poor school governance Poverty economic dependence Inefficient court system High cost of energy Poor organization of small businesses Unfriendly tax policies Political systems Inefficient Bureaucracy Poor infrastructure Inaccessible garrison communities OPPORTUNITIES OF DESTINATION JAMAICA Global recovery increased markets Import substitutions opportunities Renewable energy opportunities Poor structure and dependency means greater opportunities to grow Public sector rationalization Tax reform and simplification Domestic tourism Cruise passengers as potential stopovers THREATS OF DESTINATION JAMAICA Pollution of Environment Visitors Harassment Global Recovery inflation, higher interest rates Rising oil and commodity prices Focus on more investor friendly emerging economies upcoming elections fiscal appetite for revenue Inadequate Health Care The value of the Tourism Marketing Plan The Tourism Marketing Plan, establish growth based on a sustainable market position in line with market trends which helps to enhance the visitors experience through mobilizing investment by increasing the types and quality of attractions. This gives awareness in the market place. The marketing plan may be part of the business plan. A solid marketing strategy is the foundation of a well written marketing plan. Thus the value of the plan is to provide a strategic vision for the development of the industry and a framework through which that strategic vision can be realized. Three processes involved in developing the Tourism Marketing Plan Introduction: set out the main theme of the Tourism Marketing Plan. It starts with a discussion of what constitute sustainable tourism development and then outline the main strategic objectives of the marketing plan and the measure designed to achieve them. Sustainable Tourism: the aim of the marketing plan to move the industry on a path of sustainability which includes a key finding of the Diagnostic and Strategic options. Strategic Objectives: to ensure consensus of the future direction of the industry and the strategic objectives set for it. The diagnostic and strategic options report set out three strategic options for planning the future growth of the industry. The three options are: Accelerating growth so that tourism can play the lead role in economic development envisaged in the national industrial policy (NIP) with particular regard to serving as a lead sector of the economy earning foreign exchange and creating employment. Enhancing visitors experience, through developing and satisfying diversifying the product, to improve the long term competitive positioning of the industry and to achieve self-sustaining growth based on word- of mouth referrals and high repeat visitors. Achieving sustainability through improving socio-economic integration, by putting communities at the Centre of the tourism planning process and by helping to preserve Jamaicas rich heritage of the national and built environment and its unique history and culture. Five external organizations that could assist the Jamaica Tourist Board with implementation of a Destination Marketing Plan Immunology: Techniques and Functions Immunology: Techniques and Functions a) Acquired resistance The efficient and protective response against dermatophytosis is a cell-mediated response of the DTH, characterized namely by the action of macrophages as effector cells, interferon-ÃŽ ± secretion from type 1 T-helper lymphocytes and by some key cytokines like interferon-ÃŽ ³ (IFN-ÃŽ ³). Immune detection and chemotaxis occur via low-molecular weight chemotactic factors or alternative complement pathway activation. However, the immune response that is raised, and especially the degree of inflammation, varies according to the dermatophyte species, the host species and the pathophysiological status of the host.26 In general, the zoophilic species cause more inflammatory infections which may heal spontaneously and result in relative resistance to reinfection. The anthropophilic species usually cause more chronic, less circumscribed infections which result in less resistance to reinfection.26 b) Hypersensitivity (Trichophytin Reaction) The trichophytin reaction is the term used for cutaneous hypersensitivity to dermatophyte antigens injected intradermally in humans. Both immediate- and delayed-type reactions occur, but the latter is most often associated with infection.26 Trichophyton species can be isolated from patients with deep-seated trichophytosis in a liquid medium consisting of beef extract, peptone, and maltose. After 2 to 3 months at room temperature, the growth is ground and filtered.26 In patients with deep-seated trichophytosis, parenteral injection of trichophytin caused signs and symptoms analogous to those induced in tuberculous patients by injection of tuberculin: general toxic reactions including elevated temperature, perspiration, loss of appetite, headache, and pain in the joints. There was inflammation, formation of pustules, and burning at the injection site.26 Dermatophytid reactions (4–5% of patients) are inflammatory eczematous allergic skin reactions at sites distant from primary fungal infection. Being KOH and culture negative, it is associated with a DTH response to trichophytin test and may involve a local DTH response to systemically absorbedfungal antigen.26 c) Antibodies; Antibody formation does not seem to be protective. The dermatophyteantigen is thought to be processed by epidermal Langerhans cells and presented in local lymph nodes to T lymphocytes which proliferate, migrate to the infected site, and produce inflammation. The epidermal barrier becomes permeable to transferring and migrating cells leading to spontaneous resolution of lesions. Trichophytin skin test is now positive and clearing of second infection will be more rapid. Rivalier showed that a dermatophytic infection in humans results in a relative resistance to subsequent infection called‘le phenomene de la reaction acceleree’or‘le phenomene de Bruno Bloch’, mainly by the inflammatory forms (kerion), caused by zoophilic species, but not always follow the more chronic anthropophilic infections. Fungi which do not invade the hair follicle do not seem to give rise to an equivalent immunity when growing in the horny layer of the smooth skin. In contrast, a study c ould not demonstrate such acquired immunity in experimentalT. rubruminfection of smooth skin.26 d) Non-Specific Resistance Natural defenses against dermatophytes depend on immunological and nonimmunological mechanisms. Many nonspecific factors may account for natural resistance to infection. It is mainly related to the serum factor, a fungistatic substance in serum of normal individuals and animals. This factor is believed to limit the growth of the dermatophytes to the keratinized layers, i.e., prevent their invasion of living tissues.26 Host factors that help limiting the infection to keratinized tissue include their preference for cooler skin temperatures than the normal body temperature, serum inhibitory factors(beta-globulins, ferritin and other metal chelators) binding to iron essential for growth of dermatophytes. Unsaturated transferrin inhibits the growth of dermatophytes by binding to the hyphae. A growth modifying, ÃŽ ±2 macroglobulin keratin inhibitor, has also been identified in serum. The natural resistance of scalp to 1. Direct Microscopic Examination Direct microscopy provides an early and reasonably reliable method of diagnosing or excluding fungal infections. Potassium Hydroxide (KOH) preparation Direct mounts are made by mixing a small portion of the material in 2-3 drops of 10% KOH on a microscope slide. A cover slip is placed over KOH specimen and the slide is gently heated. The slide is allowed to cool and ‘ripen’ for few minutes before examination. The KOH ‘cleans’ the specimen by digesting proteinaceous debris, bleaching pigments and loosening sclerotic material without damaging fungus, making hyphal forms easier to see. The slides are examined under bright field microscope with low condenser, first under 10x and then under 40x. The hyphae stand out as highly refractile long undulating branched septate threads. At times these hyphae fragment into rounded or barrel shaped arthrospores. The arthrospores are outside the hair shaft in chains in a mosaic pattern or intrapilar depending on the species involved and whether it is endothrix or ectothrix. 20% KOH are used for nail samples. In case the nails do not soften satisfactorily, the slide may be kept in an incubator at 370C for 1 hour. Hair should be examined as soon as possible after mounting. Some modifications of KOH preparation Addition of 5% glycerin to 25% KOH or NaOH prevents desiccation. 20% KOH dissolved in 40% DMSO helps in rapid penetration and maceration of tissue without resorting to heating.36 Addition of Parker Superchrome Blue-black ink to KOH solution selectively colors the hyphae making them more prominent. Sodium sulphide may also be used as a clearing agent. Eosin 1% may be added to KOH to stain the keratin. It lends a pinkish background while fungal elements remain unstained.37 Modified Parker’s ink and 1% Eosin method: Eosin 1% is added to Parker’s ink in 2:1 proportion. The mixture is painted over the affected site and allowed to dry. Apply cellophane tape, gently press, remove it, stick over glass slide and observe under microscope. Background stains pink and fungal elements stain blue. 2. Calcofluor white stain Calcofluor white is a fluorescent brightener which selectively binds to chitin and cellulose in the fungal cell wall. It fluoresces light blue color when exposed to ultraviolet light (346-365nm). 3. Acridine Orange38 A drop of 0.01% acridine orange may be added to KOH and observed under fluorescent microscope. 4. PAS (Periodic Acid Schiff)38 Nail clipping stained with PAS is more rewarding as compared to KOH wet mount. The polysaccharides of fungi are oxidized by periodic acid to form aldehyde groups that yield magenta coloured compound with Schiff’s fuchsin sulfide. 5. Gomori Methenamine Silver Stain38 This stain works on the principle of liberation of aldehyde groups and their subsequent identification by reduced silver method. The aldehyde reduces methenamine silver nitrate complex resulting in brown black staining fungal cell wall due to deposition of reduced silver wherever aldehydes are located. Culture The most common media used for the isolation of dermatophytes is Sabourauds Dextrose agar with chloramphenicol and cycloheximide to inhibit bacterial and saprobic fungal contamination, incubated at three temperatures i.e., 250 C, 300C and 370C Dermatophyte test medium (DTM) is used for the presumptive identification of dermatophytes. On incubation at 250C, the dermatophyte test media turns red due to change in color of the indicator phenol red by increased pH through their metabolic activity while most fungi do not.38 Potato flakes agar amended with cycloheximide and chloramphenicol is available as Rapid Sporulating Medium to promote rapid conidiation and colony pigmentation.39 SDA with 1% thiamine can be used for sporulation. The media should be inoculated and kept at room temperature for minimum of weeks. Sporulation usually occurs in 7 – 10 days. Some stains like T.verrucosum may take longer and some stains of T.tonsurans grow better when incubated at 370 C. Identification Identification is based on Colony characteristics in pure culture on SDA Microscopic morphology 1. Colony characteristics39 In observing gross colony morphology, note the color of the surface and the reverse of the colony, the texture of the surface (powdery, granular, wooly, cottony, velvety or glabrous) the topography (elevation, folding, margins, etc.,) and the rate of growth. 2. Microscopic morphology The appearance and arrangement of the conidia and other structures may be determined by tease mounts or slide culture preparation mounted on lactophenol cotton blue. Sometimes special media like corn meal agar, potato glucose agar, lactrimel agar, rapid sporulation medium may be required to stimulate sporulation. a. Tease mount (Lactophenol Cotton Blue) For preparing a mount, a portion of fungal fragment is removed with a spud and is teased on a glass slide in a drop of LCB stain using 2 teasing needles. A cover slip is placed and examined under the microscope. b. Slide culture Microscopic structures are beautifully preserved for study in fine details. A microscopic slide is placed on a bent glass rod at the bottom of a petri dish along with 1-2 cover slips and a filter paper. Petri dishes are closed with their lid, wrapped with craft paper and sterilized using hot air oven. Block of 1x2cm of Sabourauds agar poured into petri dishes up to a depth of 4mm is cut using sterile scalpel blade. The block is transferred to the surface of the glass slide. The agar block is inoculated at four sides using the fungal strain to be identified. The inoculated block is covered with sterile cover slip and incubated at 250 C. A little sterile distilled water is added on the filter paper to avoid drying of agar. When growth appears, a drop of LCB is placed on a slide and cover slip from block is placed over it. Likewise drop of stain is placed on glass slide of the slide culture after removing agar block; fresh cover slip is applied over it and is examined under the microsco pe.38,40 c. Scotch Tape Technique A 4 cm strip of scotch tape No. 800 is looped back on itself with the adhesive side out and held between the thumb and index finger. The adhesive side is pressed firmly to the surface of the fungal colony. It is gently pulled and is placed in a small drop of LCB on a microscopic slide. Physiological tests 1. In vitro hair perforation test This is performed to differentiate between T.mentagrophytes and T.rubrum as well as M.canis and M.equinum. This test is taken positive when dermatophyte species show wedge shaped perforation in hair. It is positive in T.mentagrophytes and M.canis. 2. Urease Test Is done on Christensen’s medium. T.mentagrophytes hydrolyze urea thereby turns medium red while T.rubrum shows negative result. 3. Special nutritional requirements The method employs a casamino acids basal medium i.e., vitamin free [Trichophyton agar, (T1)] and to which various vitamins are added i.e., inositol (T2), thiamine + inositol (T3), thiamine (T4), and nicotinic acid (T5). In addition, the series includes an ammonium nitrate basal medium (T6) to which histidine is added (T7). After inoculation, incubated at room temperature or 370C (if T.verrucosum is suspected) and read after 7 and 14 days. The amount of growth is graded from 0-4+. 4. Growth on Polished Rice Grains This is a useful test for differentiating M.audouinii from M.canis and from other dermatophytes that typically grow and sporulate on rice grains. 5. Temperature tolerance and temperance enhancement Used for distinguishing T.mentagrophytes complex from T.terrestre, T.mentagrophytes from M.persicolor and T.verrucosum from T.schoenleinii. At 370 C, members of T.mentagrophytes complex show good result whereas T.terrestre does not grow and M.persicolor generally grows poorly or not at all; growth of T.verrucosum and T.soudanense is enhanced but that of T.schoenleinii and M.ferruginum is not. 6. Hair bait technique This technique is used for the isolation of geophilic species like M.gypseum from soil. Immunodiagnosis38 Skin tests with dermatophyte antigen trichophytin are used for the diagnosis of dermatophytosis. Trichophytin is a crude extract from dermatophytes producing positive delayed type hypersensitivity in most of the adults. The patients without delayed type reaction are more susceptible to chronic dermatophytosis. Serological tests Various serological tests like immunodiffusion are done to establish the diagnosis of dermatophytosis. Animal pathogenicity It is done on guinea pigs. M.canis, M.gypseum and T.mentagrophytes may be established more readily in laboratory animals as compared to other species. It is done for studying nature of lesions and immunity produced by the organism. Molecular Identification Techniques Methods used are largely based on arbitrarily primed PCR or restriction fragment length polymorphism generated from PCR products. An oligonucleotide probe for T.rubrum has been developed. Nested PCR targeting Chitin Synthase I (CHSI) gene in skin and hair specimen of patients clinically suspected with dermatophytosis is used.41

Overpopulation, Population Control and Public Policy Essay -- Explorat

Overpopulation, Population Control and Public Policy The population explosion in the last one hundred years is a well-documented, and well-examined subject matter. All sorts of agencies have devoted time and resources to studying, problematizing, and strategizing in order to deal with the threat of overpopulation. Diverse groups, including the United Nations, have developed plans to encourage population control and decreased fertility rates. I will not go into the specifics of these plans here, as I will be examining them in detail in my presentation next week. However, I will say that population control in Third World nations have become an essential component of public policy, and have taken on many forms around the world. However, it seems possible that we are all jumping the gun. What if the population explosion is a self-correcting problem? There is some evidence that global fertility rates are naturally declining, even in areas without family planning and population control. Could the improved health and education in many countri es be achieving this goal without specific population control measures? Or else, are changes in the environment simply lowering human’s fertility? In addition, some people argue that it doesn’t matter how whether the population is exploding. There are those proponents of the â€Å"tech-fix,† who believe that human ingenuity is capable of dealing with any human population, and therefore the population explosion is not a problem. Malthusians are faced with many opponents in the modern day, and it does not seem to be likely that experts will reach a consensus on the danger of population growth any time through. However, I am not sure that this should put an end to the notion of family planning and popul... ...gnificantly positive benefits around the world. First, it may be able to slow the spread of AIDS and other STDs by spreading knowledge and condoms to places where the AIDS virus is prevalent. In addition, birth control and family planning is a key element in the improvement and increase in women’s rights. I do believe that a women’s right to reproductive freedom was a monumental victory for the feminist movement here in America. In addition, the benefits of birth control to women’s physical health are also very important. The decrease in number of pregnancies, and the increase in time between births are important in making childbirth safer and healthier for women. Population control may be useless and unnecessary when it comes to actually addressing the â€Å"population explosion,† but it produces positive side-benefits that may be as important as its primary objective.

Education for All Essay

Higher Education has left behind the image of an American college population featuring predominantly young men and women from affluent, well connected families. Being a college student myself at age 50, I notice the diversity in student demographics. College represents a new beginning for those who have been affected by the recent economical changes all over the country but mostly in California. The visibility of nontraditional students earning a degree while raising families is commonplace. The availability of financial aid, scholarships, and federal loan programs has opened collegiate doors for students of all income levels and cultural backgrounds. I had many reservations in regards to entering the education arena so many years after graduating high school. I had concerns that I would not be able to pass an entrance exam. In the article â€Å"College Entrance Examination Board† in the Encyclopedia of Education, Second Edition, The College Examination Board is the body that creates the nationally recognized college entrance exam referred to as the Scholastic Assessment Test or SAT which is taken by one million students annually and is required for admission by many four year colleges and universities (372). According to the â€Å"Assessment Requirements† article on the website, California Colleges, most California Community Colleges require a placement assessment test to accurately place students in appropriate classes based on each individual’s level of ability. After taking the placement test for Mt San Jacinto Community College, I was amazed at the simplicity of the test itself. However, my reading and comprehension is still college level and unsurprising to me since I have been out of school since 1979, the test showed that I would require some remedial math and grammar. Since becoming a student in a California college I have become aware of several things. According to the Postsecondary Education Commissions article â€Å"Admission and residency requirements† on the website California Postsecondary Education Commission, by law all California Community Colleges are required to admit any California resident who graduated from high school. In addition, community colleges may admit individuals who have not graduated but are over 18 years old and can benefit from the instruction offered. The Commission article further states California Community Colleges serve 1. million students every year and a California resident may attend any community college campus in the state. According to article â€Å"California High School Exit Examination,† on the website California Department of Education, in California all high school students must pass a test to earn a high school diploma, the test itself is called the CAHSEE. I further investigated this exam, and found another article referring to the CAHSEE called â€Å"Help with the California High School Exit Exam† on the website San Diego County Office of Education. In which the San Diego County Office of Education outlined the components of the CAHSEE exam. I was absolutely amazed. The test covers the curriculum of the courses I was placed in after taking the placement test at Mt San Jacinto Community College. I understand the placement of someone who has been out of school for over 30 years, but what I absolutely do not understand are the amount of students in the same classes as I am who are fresh out of high school. Something is definitely wrong. I have discovered that California Community Colleges are the melting pot for students that didn’t make it in high school and now are taking up space in the largest education system in the state. In fact, with the budget cuts in the State of California affecting class availability in the community colleges, obtaining the necessary classes for every student’s educational goal is challenging. I received an email from Enrollment Services at Mt. San Jacinto Community College, titled â€Å"Policy Changes Effective Summer 2012,† its content disturbed me. Basically, it is limiting the number of times each student can take a class to receive a passing grade. That means that the student can take up to three semesters and receive financial aid, take up desk space, trying to pass a class that before this change, the class could be taken more than three times to achieve a passing grade. This policy was adopted by the Board of Governors of the California Community Colleges to â€Å"ensure that as many students as possible are provided the opportunity to access a postsecondary education†. There is a gap between exiting high school and entering community college. There are Adult Education Centers in every community and these schools should be utilized for those students who don’t have college level reading comprehension skills. There should be a referral source and a retesting arrangement for students that cannot read. This has been the most frustrating element of returning to college. The students that for whatever reason did not finish high school and do not have adequate reading comprehension skills should not take up space in the higher education arena. A bridge needs to be created to assist these individuals to integrate them into college. The assessment placement test places students below 10th grade reading and comprehension abilities in remedial courses. Community colleges are providing classes that are not college level, which takes away classroom availability for students moving towards a degree, or certificate program. Class availability is a twofold problem, the number of student trying to enroll in college that don’t have the college level skills and the students enrolling in college trying to obtain their undergraduate courses to transfer to a four year college or university. The remedial classes I took my first semester back to college did not count towards my college units needed for a degree. However, it was difficult to register for these classes due to the infrequent availability and the number of students trying to register for these same courses. There is a huge benefit to the student taking these classes. Not only does it improve reading comprehension and math skills, but it teaches note taking and encourages better study habits. Ultimately these two things are greatly important to being successful in college. Using the community Adult Education Centers for Basic English, math or English as a Second language is part of the solution. The next would be to change the community college entrance â€Å"Accuplacer Test† to a more sophisticated â€Å"Entrance Exam† geared towards college level ability. Not only would this make more class rooms available at the community college level but increased class availability for the type of classes meeting the specific needs of the student. In the article by David Olson â€Å"Education is key theme of Riverside White House summit† from The Press-Enterprise, the percentage breakdown of persons with a bachelor’s degree is 13 percent Hispanic, 31 percent white and 50 percent are Asians (A1+). Olsen further states that nearly half the Inland area’s residents and 60 percent of its school children are Hispanic and lag far behind their classmates in educational achievement (A1+). This is greatly attributed to the language barrier. English as a second language does not carry college degree units. I believe that students who need this type of instruction could receive it just as well in an Adult Education setting. According to the article by Joanna Lin, â€Å"Expanding access to education,† in The Press-Enterprise, the Riverside Unified School District, introduced a state wide ballot initiative that would give students unrestricted access to publicly funded courses (A1+). This initiative would not limit the access to the courses by Zip code. The courses are known as the A-G requirements, required by California State University and University of California for admission. Having access to these undergraduate courses through the Riverside Virtual School is another solution for the overcrowding at community colleges. Lin further states that access to these courses could be through the student’s high school or through any publicly funded school. The type of classes could be online, classroom based or a blended model of both (A1+). According to the article â€Å"Budget Cuts Affect California Community Colleges† on the website Purpose of Education, a state budget cut is affecting more than 21,000 college students in California. Students that would have enrolled in a California State College are now seeking undergraduate courses at the community college level. Due to the overcrowding in the community colleges this student population is having a difficult time accessing their classes. According to Lin’s article in The Press-Enterprise, the Riverside Virtual School would assist in making undergraduate courses available. Lin further states this initiative calls on the State of California to modify its school financing to funding based on courses completed rather than on average attendance allowing multiple institutions to split funding for the same student (A+). It is my belief that in trying to help students whose educational ability is less than the criteria necessary to achieve success in community college, the Department of Education is denying the caliber of students who have the ability to achieve a degree and give back to society in the fashion that supports higher education. Utilizing Adult Schools is a solution for this problem. Every person has a right to education; California law regarding the right to everyone over 18 years of age can enroll in a community college and receive an education is a proactive and positive contribution to the betterment of society as a whole. My argument lies within the parameters of the assessment process. I believe that all students entering community college should have college level reading comprehension and basic math skills. If a student is not able to read at college level then the student should be referred to the Adult Education Center in his or her community to receive remedial instruction and then referred back to the college for re-assessment testing. This process would allow a greater availability of classes to students that already possess these skills and reduce the overcrowding as well as the financial strain on California Community Colleges as a whole. Those students that are serious about furthering their education will do whatever it takes to accomplish their goal. The demographic of the country is changing, along with it the need of the Department of Education to rise to the challenge. Education is mandatory for success for anyone. It is my belief that with the types of alternate education for undergraduate courses outlined in Lin’s article â€Å"Expanding access to education† and utilizing the community Adult Education Centers for remedial education, any student would be able to successfully obtain a degree. Not only obtain a degree but be able to do it in a more expedited fashion, which would benefit society as a whole.

Nvq Level 2

How to make an individual aware of the effects of poor hygiene on others Personal hygiene is a topic often brought up during the pre-teen and teen years when a youngster's body is developing. However, there are times when adults need to be reminded about personal care as well. When subtle hints about showering or using deodorant have no effect, a conversation is the next step. This conversation can be uncomfortable for us and the resident but it doesn't need to be.With some preparation and a few helpful props, we can talk to someone about personal hygiene and help him implement improvements. Step 1 Begin the conversation with a compliment, such as making note that the individual's hair looked very clean the previous day. Continue the conversation by stating the poor hygiene that we have noticed. Will use words like, â€Å"I have noticed† instead of â€Å"You don't. † Simply identify the problem area for the individual, whether that is showering, oral hygiene or somethin g else.Step 2 Continue the conversation by discussing the personal care steps the individual seems to be skipping. If this appears to be a shower, will ask the individual when she/he showers regularly or if she/he had time to shower that day. Step 3 Evaluate the individual's response as to why the hygiene step has been skipped. If it wasn't skipped, then the next step would be to discuss how to do it correctly. Will provide a demonstration if possible or offer the correct hygiene products to fulfil the task.Step 4 State our concern over the individual's hygiene. Phrase the concern carefully and use caring words. Step 5 Will offer the individual the personal care item she/he may be lacking, such as deodorant or mouth wash. Step 6 Will end the conversation by affirming the person. This can be done by stating how much we care for him/her, assuring that this hygiene issue doesn't change our relationship or helping him/her devise a personal care plan. Step 7 Will ask if the individual ha s any questions.