A Story about Love Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

A Story about Love - Essay Example is the strangest as it shows how a loving wife would suffer through an abusive husband since she loves him to the extent that she would do anything for him. The characters note with this example that love occurs without any regard for sensibilities or the idea of right and wrong. This is certainly true since love is often considered a maddening predicament which has no room for rank or social standing and even practicalities become mere inconveniences when it comes to love (Chekhov, 1918). I feel that this is a very idealistic approach to love which may not really exist in the real world where practicalities often become more important than love itself. As per the story told by Chekhov (1918), love demands sacrifices and it demands that the lovers be prepared to give up on everything they want the most. As the story shows, when it comes to love, a person may have to suffer through the most gut wrenching moments without flinching and accept that what is good for the person they love must be good for themselves as well. Of course this may not be always true as it was in the case of Alehin, but the situation demanded that the beloved be given precedence over the lover. This precedence also stems from the viewpoint which the lover takes of the beloved when she is described by him with these words: â€Å"Her eyes, the elegant refined hand she gave me, her indoor dress, the way she did her hair, her voice, her step, always produced the same impression on me something new and extraordinary in my life, and very important (Chekhov, 1918, Pg. 1)†. For Chekhov, this becomes the essence of love since the supreme sacrifice a lover can make is to give up on the love which sustains him/her if giving up that love will make life easier for the beloved. Alehin does that for Anna and even though she is also in love with him, her love is perhaps not as great a love as Alehin has for her. While he is willing to give up what he feels for her just so that she can be happy, she is not

Shanghai Disney Expansion Project Case Study Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 2000 words

Shanghai Disney Expansion Project - Case Study Example That is to say, that even before a strategy is developed; it has to focus on these factors. In essence, it is at this stage that business owners normally analyze the current situation of the business concerning the aforementioned areas. A SWOT analysis is normally created at this point with an aim to give the overview of the company including its competitors, social and legal environment. The second step involves market profiling whereby the owner focuses on a number of issues including the revenues, market-share, and the expected profitability. In order to create this step effectively, a business owner has to be focused primarily on the customer1. Often, business people tend to introduce products in the market with little, if any, regard as to the customer’s need. It is through understanding the need of the customer that the development of a product and its subsequent marketing ought to take place. It is at this level that one sets targets for the products and rolls it out to the intended market, which has already been analyzed. Once market identity is complete and the projections of revenues and profits are set, the business owner has to create a market segment strategy. Here, the business has to decide the mode of making marketing and sales. That is to say, options such as direct or indirect sales ought to be analyzed, mass marketing and so forth. Business owners will have to set up product, pricing, promotional, distribution and marketing strategies. The essence of this step is to ensure that the targeted market has been reached, revenues projected is realized as well as guaranteeing market share. Concerning how this plan could benefit Disney, the company ought to take a few steps in its quest for expansion in the areas of Shanghai. Firstly, Disney has to follow the steps outlined above with the first one being aware of the behaviour of the local people.  

Bacillary And Post Parturient Hemoglobinuria Biology Essay

Bacillary And Post Parturient Hemoglobinuria Biology Essay Post parturient hemoglobinuria is a sporadic disease of multiparous, high producing dairy cows and buffaloes characterized by red blood cells breakdown in the muscles, hemoglobinuria and anemia. The prevalence of the disease in the overall cattle population is very little with a case fatality rate ranging from 10 to 50% (1).Parturient hemoglobinuria was formerly known as milk fever complex, post- parturient hemoglobinuria, puerperal hemoglobinuria and nutritional hemoglobinuria, etc. History Parturient hemoglobinuria was first reported in 1939 in buffaloes in the Indian sub-continent in the Lyallpur district, now Faisalabad (Aslam and Haq, 1967). The first known reference of its occurrence and possible cause in Pakistan was by Hussain (1955). Subsequent reviews on the issue recommended that phosphorus insufficiency may be a possible reason of the disease (Pirzada et al., 1989; Pirzada and Ali, 1990). However, so far its true etiology remains doubtful. Etiology Consequent papers concluded that PPH is neither infectious nor contagious derived from negative serological and bacteriological verification for pathogenic bacteria and failure to identify erythrocyte parasites (1,6,7,8,9,10).Different causes, e.g. protein and mineral insufficiency, Saponin from cruciferous plants, competition for mineral assimilation and, hypophosphataemia because of phosphorus insufficiency. Pirzada et al. (1989) and Cheema et al. (1980) reported that no contributory pathogen could be secluded from the affected animals. Copper insufficiency has been recommended as a possible cause of PPH by personnel in New Zealand. animals from dairy farms with a high occurrence of PPH had low levels of copper in serum and liver (12). A disease in Ontario named as red water was linked with several predisposing factors which included: a) fresh parturition, b) intense milk production, c) dietetic phosphorus insufficiency and d) eating of turnips, rape, kale, green alfalfa and sugar beet pulp (13,14,15). In addition, many cows were hypophosphataemia (1, 16, and 17). Susceptible animals A first round report recommended that parturient hemoglobinuria frequently affected high producing buffalo cows in the area of the Punjab province of Pakistan wherever there is a insufficiency of minerals, chiefly in the districts of Faisalabad, Jhelum, Attock and Rawalpindi. At these points soil tended to be deprived in minerals and buffaloes were affected more than cattle (Husain, 1955). The incidence of this syndrome in bulls, cows prior to parturation, heifers under two years old, or beef cows is remarkable but has been reported (23,22). A disease with many similarities has been described in sheep (13), Egyptian and Indian buffaloes (24,16) and a goat (17). Clinical signs Clinical signs of syndrome can bee seen 20+,-10 days, before or after parturition at what time affected Animals pass red to coffee colored urine and rectal temperature ranges from 38.38C to 39.48C, (Pirzada et al., 1989). On the other hand, with the advancement of disease, rectal temperature declines. Additional clinical signs are jaundice, anemia, recumbency, in appetence, labored breathing, and constipation (Razz et al., 1988). Cheema et al. (1980) reported that there was a considerable increase in the rectal temperature of affected animals. The disease affects buffaloes more than cattle (Pirzada et al., 1989) which is a judgment in close agreement with that of Raz et al. (1988). Pirzada et al. (1989) additional observed that phosphorus administration yielded effective outcome suggestive of hypophosphataemia as a causal issue and that, in the affected areas from August to January, animals in advanced stages of pregnancy should be supplemented with dicalcium phosphate or bone meal w hich should contain 13% and 17% phosphorus correspondingly (Amir and Kripsch- eer, 1989). This agreed with the findings of Akram et al. (1990) and Raz et al. (1988). Earlier, Sadiq et al. (1965) found that even though cases of parturient hemoglobinuria occurred all the way through the year, the occurrence increased in winter. On the other hand, Cheema et al. (1980) reported that frequently stall-fed animals were affected, and that most cases were occurring in July and September. The acute disease (three to five days) can come to an end in death or be followed by extended convalescence (two to eight weeks). Gangrene and sloughing of the extremities are reported sequelae. Recovered animals get back their former body condition and milk production gradually. Diagnosis It can On the basis of clinical signs and history Urinalysis can be helpful in the diagnosis of this syndrome. Microscopic inspection of the urine sediment is imperative to distinguish hematuria from hemoglobinuria. Treatment The recommended treatment for Post parturient hemoglobinuria in North America includes: 1) intravenous infusion of sodium acid phosphate (60 g in 300 mL of water), 2) 100 g of bone meal administered as a drench two times a day, 3) transfusion of fresh blood as needed and 4) intravenous fluids to sustain hydration (1,29,30). Improvement of any phosphorus insufficiency or disproportion in the ration together with removal of incriminated feeds might prevent further cases. Because of incompatible results with phosphate therapy and the copper-deficient status of affected cows, personnel in New Zealand recommend parenteral copper (120 mg available copper per cow) as the favored treatment (31). A study on treatment trials of hemoglobinuria in buffalo cows and cattle indicated that subsequent treatment with sodium acid phosphate (20% sol) administered concurrently by i.v., s.c. and oral routes, approximately 100% of affected animals recovered in 1-3 days (Shah et al., 1988). Blood transfusion also shows a good result in this regard (Rauf, 1989; Raz et al., 1991). A blood coagulant Botrophase prepared from the venom of the snake Bothrops jararaca, seems to have anti fibrinolytic action and was productively used to treat buffaloes facing parturient hemoglobinuria (Goel et al., 1988). Parenteral copper (120 mg available copper per cow) as the favored treatment (31). Treatment with toldimfos sodium and tea leaves and sodium acid phosphate Result of this treatment was based on the recovery of urine discoloration; the efficacy of toldimfos sodium was 85% followed by tea leaves 56%, and sodium acid phosphate 18%. (Zameer et.al 2010). Fallowing treatment with tae leaves and toldimofos sodium urine was clear next day, and with treatment with sodium acid phosphate urine was clear on third dy. (Zameer et.al 2010) Prevention Parenteral administration of copper has been effectual in dairy herds with previous histories of PPH (36,37). For prevention of the disease, supplementation with dicalcium phosphate has been suggested (Pirzada et al., 1989; Pirzada and Ali, 1990). The occurrence of PPH was considerably lower (5.18% versus 25.51%; P

Samuel Becketts Waiting for Godot as an Existentialist Play Essay

Waiting for Godot as an Existentialist Play   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚   The play, Waiting For Godot, is centred around two men, Estragon and Vladimir, who are waiting for a Mr. Godot, of whom they know little. Estragon admits himself that he may never recognize Mr. Godot, "Personally I wouldn't know him if I ever saw him." (p.23). Estragon also remarks, "†¦ we hardly know him." (p.23), which illustrates to an audience that the identity of Mr. Godot is irrelevant, as little information is ever given throughout the play about this indefinable Mr. X. What is an important element of the play is the act of waiting for someone or something that never arrives. Western readers may find it natural to speculate on the identity of Godot because of their inordinate need to find answers to questions. Beckett however suggests that the identity of Godot is in itself a rhetorical question. It is possible to stress the for in the waiting for †¦: to see the purpose of action in two men with a mission, not to be deflected from their compulsive task. " Estragon: †¦ Let's go. Vladimir: We can't. Estragon: Why not? Vladimir: We're waiting for Godot." (p.14). The essence of existentialism concentrates on the concept of the individual's freedom of choice, as opposed to the belief that humans are controlled by a pre-existing omnipotent being, such as God. Estragon and Vladimir have made the choice of waiting, without instruction or guidance, as Vladimir says, "He didn't say for sure he'd come" (p.14), but decides to "wait till we know exactly how we stand" (p.18). Albert Camus, an existentialist writer, believed that boredom or waiting, which is essentially the breakdown of routine or habit, caused people to think seriously about their identity,... ...h other or from their situation in general. The optimistic view of the play shows a range of human emotion and the need to share experiences alongside the suffering of finite existence; governed by the past, acting in the present and uncertain of the future. Works Cited and Consulted Alvarez, A. Samuel Beckett. New York: Viking, 1973. Beckett, Samuel. Waiting for Godot: A Tragicomedy in Two Acts. New York: Grove, 1953. ClassicNote.com by GradeSaver. J. N. Smith. Aug. 1999. Web. 27 March 2015 Gradesaver.com/ClassicNotes/Titles/WaitingForGodot/Analysis.html Graver, Lawrence. Waiting for Godot. 5th ed. New York: U of Cambridge P, 1999. Hugh Kenner, A Readers Guide to Samuel Beckett, London 1973. http://www.britannica.com/eb/print?tocId=9014042 Wikipedia. Waiting for Godot. Web. 27 March 2015 http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Waiting_for_Godot   

Normal and Abnormal Psychology Essay

Psychology is a science that studies the human mind and behavior, to understand and explain thoughts, emotions, and behavior of individuals. Psychology can be applied in different ways, such as mental health treatment, performance improvement or enhancement, self-help and other areas impacting the health and daily life of individuals. Psychology is generally a broad field of science, and there are multiple subfields or areas within it. Two subfields in particular that are going to be discussed in this paper are normal and abnormal psychology. An individual is categorized within these two subfields according to whether their social behavior and way of thinking is common or totally out of the norm. Normal Psychology studies the common or average human behavior of individuals. This particular area focuses mainly on understanding the way the individual thinks and reasons throughout their everyday life. This area does not involve any disorders or psychological illnesses, but instead it researches the human mind in trying to better understand the individual’s thought process and behavior. An individual who would be categorized under normal psychology would not display any mental illnesses, disorders, psychological problems or un-normal behavior. Abnormal Psychology studies abnormal human behavior as well as psychopathology of the individual. Abnormal refers to something that is not normal or out of the norm. This particular area of psychology focuses more on research and treatment for the abnormal behavior displayed by the individual. This area of psychology covers a wide variety of disorders such as depression, sexual deviation, obsession-compulsion, anxiety, mood, developmental, etc. A good way to tell if there is a case of abnormal psychology is anytime the behavior of an individual is causing problems in their life or is disruptive to them or other people. There are a number of perspectives used to treat abnormal psychology. Three main perspectives are: behavioral, medical, and cognitive. The behavioral perspective focuses on the observable behaviors. The medical perspective focuses on biological causes on the mental illness. The cognitive perspective focuses on how their internal thoughts and reasoning contribute to the psychological disorders.

The Killer Angels Book Review

I believe that the author wrote this book because he wanted people to view the Battle of Gettysburg from not Just the view point that we receive in our textbooks but from different points of views so that we may interpret the battle as a whole instead of bits and pieces. This book, in my opinion, was written for both informative and entertainment for those who enjoy learning about history and the Civil War. This novel began with a person spying on the Union army then goes back to report o General Longest that he had found that an Union army was seen moving nearby where he was located.When the spy told Longest that information, it seemed to shock him a little bit. In Longitude's mind he believed that another general, General Stuart, was supposed to be tracking the Union army's movement. Now that he has received this information, he thought that he should move the Confederate army north to cut off the Union army. While heading north, the Confederate's come across a small town in Pennsy lvania known as Gettysburg. While patrolling the town of Gettysburg on his horse, a Union general had noticed that the Confederate soldiers were close.The general who saw the confederate army, General Afford, was under the impression that the two armies would start to battle inside the town. So he set up to brigades along the hills outside of town. His way of thinking was that the higher ground the Union army was, the better it was to fight the Confederate army. He believed using the geography of the north was a good idea. I agree with his thinking because it is certainly an advantage when it comes to warfare. As General Afford is aging arrangements to make that happen, General Longest was meeting with other generals to discuss strategy and tactic.The book then turns to the date of July 1st. It starts as General Lee is waking up and discovering General Stuart absence from camp. Without the absent man, Lee had no idea where the Union army was located and that troubled him. Not knowin g where the enemy was is never a good thing because you have no idea what your next plan or step would be. While at camp, he met with Longest. Longest was confident that the Confederates can use defensive tactics that has helped them in revises battles to help them win this one.He believes that the Confederacy would have a much better chance of winning because of their defensive skills that have proven to be top notch. General Lee refused Longitude's way of thinking because he wanted to smash the Union army aggressively in one blow. The book then transitions to where the battle was beginning when the confederate soldiers attacked the men who were station amongst the hills due to Brood's command. Reinforcements soon arrived to help out Brood's men since they were getting killed.The reinforcement quad was led by General Reynolds whom was later killed in the battle. As Lee arrives to the battleground, the battle is in full swing. He is ordering his men to attack since some Union troops were coming from the South to help out. As the first day ends, Union forces retreated back into the hills to take cover and get some rest for the upcoming day when they would continue to battle. Longest becomes nervous because he knew that the hills were a good defensive position. He knew that they would have the advantage if they went to attack them within the hills.He was also ware that General Lee would attack them instead of retreating to another location and wait for them to attack. On the second day of the battle, Chamberlain is the one who makes the first move this time by moving toward Gettysburg once again. As they were walking, they discovered an escaped slave. This gets Chamberlain into thinking about the reasoning for this war that has caused so many causalities of fellow Americans and what he believed in about different races. While that was happening, two confederate generals were suggesting to lee that they should attack the opposing army to weaken it.Lee likes the p lan, but Longest still wants to move to another location. Once again Lee had refused. As Lee and Longest lead the troops toward the hills, they discover that the army has come off of the hills and into the lowland where an orchard of some sort lied. They attack which causes a blood bath. Chamberlain and his men had to hold the ground against the Confederate attacks, but eventually they run out of bullets. They had followed by a motto to never retreat and fight while standing their ground. As day two came to an end, Lee decided on a Lana for the next day.As the final day approaches, Longest, for the final time, tries to convince Lee to move the army to another location, but Lee again refuses. Lee was determined to attack his enemy at this certain place. Longest had tried to convince him but he refused while launching an attack known as Picket's charge. After the failure of Picket's charge, the Confederates soon retreated, and the Battle of Gettysburg had finally come to an end. Perso nally, I believe Michael Sahara is the type of person who found this battle to be absolutely fascinating.I also believe that the author had done his research on the matter by using personal letters of these generals and other primary sources to help him write this book. This novel is an excellent example of a bloody battle fought on the US soil between the people of the US. To be honest, I really enjoyed this book. I like who the point of views changed to get the full coverage the battle and to have an insight on what was actually happening. I also happen to love learning about wars and the presidents so that helped a lot knowing some outside information.

Immigration Into a New Country †Anthropology Research Paper

Immigration Into a New Country – Anthropology Research Paper Free Online Research Papers Immigration Into a New Country Anthropology Research Paper Immigration into a new land can be difficult for any person trying to acclimate themselves into our country, or any country. This can be especially difficult for young people who are in need of support from their parents and family. My brother was recently married and his wife, my sister-in-law’s parents recently adopted a baby from Russia. His name is Joseph and just this past January he celebrated his Fourth anniversary in our country. Joseph came as a very young child and is now about 7 and a half years old. He has dealt with a number of new experiences and challenges in his four years in America. He has had to forget his learning of the Russian language and instead learn English. He has become familiar with the American culture, and has adjusted to the cultural differences in family and child rearing. This has proven difficult, as your formative years are some of the most trying times in life, especially if you are thrust into a new situation that you are totally unfamiliar with. Will has had to forget about his parents and his birth home and learn to deal with a new Mother and Father, as well as a brother and sister. He has adopted to life in America well and is probably now at the same developmental stage as other American children his age. He has given my family strength to deal with difficulties that we over exaggerate in our lives, for he has dealt with much more severe problems than the ones that we are faced with everyday. I simply cannot wait for him to grow up, as an American boy. Research Papers on Immigration Into a New Country - Anthropology Research PaperThe Effects of Illegal ImmigrationPersonal Experience with Teen PregnancyNever Been Kicked Out of a Place This NiceBook Review on The Autobiography of Malcolm XEffects of Television Violence on Children19 Century Society: A Deeply Divided EraAssess the importance of Nationalism 1815-1850 EuropeQuebec and CanadaHip-Hop is ArtComparison: Letter from Birmingham and Crito

Up Country Essays - Aqua Teen Hunger Force, Carl Grimes, Up

Up Country Essays - Aqua Teen Hunger Force, Carl Grimes, Up Up Country Up Country In his novel Up Country, Alden R. Carter writes about how hard life is for children in the adolescent era by portraying the actions off Carl Staggers, a teenager surviving his mothers alcoholism and his car radio thief ring gone to disarray. Carl is a tragic hero who rambles through this time period by trying to make things right. He is also accompanied by characters close to him as the novel progresses. Carl is a young man with great hopes and dreams to become an electrical engineer. The problem is that he and his mother are deeply in debt, and Veronica Staggers, Carls mother, is an alcoholic who is brought home by the cops almost every week. Carl has the bright idea to use an opportunity that arose to earn money to go to a good technical college and earn a degree in electrical engineering. In this little opportunity, Carl repairs stolen stereos that he receives from his partner in crime, changes the serial number, and places the stereo into a company box for resale. Although this seems like the perfect crime, something goes terribly wrong with his admirable plan and Carl gets busted for the radios along with all of the other juveniles helping him. Ironically he was busted for the car audio equipment because of his mother who was thrown in a detox center for her alcohol abuse. Therefore, Carl was sent up country to stay with his aunt, uncle, and cousin whom he hasnt seen for a little over eight years. Thats when all of the trouble starts, including a run in with the local redneck bully and his girlfriend. On a good note while staying with his secondary family, he meets a wonderful country girl with whom he ultimately stays with instead of going back to live with his mother, who cleans her self up and moves on with her life. Carl is sentenced to public work and is basically let off easy on the condition that he stay in school and earn that electrical degree. The theme of this story is that even the most least likely person can get what they long for. Carl had always yearned for a stable family. When he was busted and was forced to move in with his aunt and uncle he, at first, dreaded the idea. He was moving in with a family he hadnt seen for eight years! As things moved on, Carl formed a niche in the little town of Blind River. He formed a relationship with his new family and found a girl that he learned to love. In the novella Up Country, examples of irony, a tragic character, and the stereotyped character. Carls cousin Bob who shows the traits of the conventional red-neck, the buck-tooth, improper English, yokel, where Carl himself shows the typical characteristics of the tragic hero. A hero, who through his own choice, was caught up an a series of events that invariably results in disaster. In my opinion this was a great book for any teenager to read. Most teenagers feel that their life is poor, weak, and pathetic, but if only they could take a look at Carls life they could see how hard life can sometimes be. Carl is an exceptional student who works hard for his goals, but he knows he will never reach them because of his home and family. Also most adolescents feel they need to take the wrong path to get what they want. Carl took the wrong path and he ended up with a good and stable family, a girlfriend, and a hope to reach is goal. So I say take the wrong path and maybe you could end up with what Carl had. All things considered, Carl had an extremely hard life with his alcoholic mother. But as you will see, when he got away from her he matured and grew emotionally. He essentially got everything he prayed and wished for. Consider this, if you were in Carls shoes, what would you do? What path would you take? Bibliography none

W00T †Word Of The Year

W00T – Word Of The Year W00T Word Of The Year W00T Word Of The Year By Sharon Merriam Webster has published its 2007 word of the year, and the winner is w00t. Who would have thought that a word with numbers in it would make the cut? According to M-W, the word is an expression of joy (similar to yay). Its also used by gamers to signify: We owned the other team. Words containing numbers are common in the vernacular of computer hackers. Other words in the top ten include: facebook (meaning to post to facebook) conundrum (a riddle or difficult problem) quixotic (foolishly impractical, capricious or unpredictable) blamestorm (discussing in a group who is to blame for missing a deadline) sardoodledom (mechanically contrived plot or structure or unrealistic characterization) apathetic (spiritless or indifferent) Pecksniffian (unctuously hypocritical) hypocrite (someone who puts on a false appearance or acts contrary to his or her beliefs) charlatan (a quack or fraud) The word of the year competition has been running since 2003. Previous word lists can be found here. Want to improve your English in five minutes a day? Get a subscription and start receiving our writing tips and exercises daily! Keep learning! Browse the Vocabulary category, check our popular posts, or choose a related post below:English Grammar 101: All You Need to KnowTelling a Good Poem from a Bad One40 Idioms with First

'All-inclusive resorts can never be reconciled with principles of Essay

'All-inclusive resorts can never be reconciled with principles of sustainability - Essay Example Despite all these, little has been done concerning tourism resorts as a tourism destination, more so the all- inclusive resorts. An important issue for discussion in tourism development has been the sustainability development. However, deeper understanding is given by addressing the concepts of demand and supply in relation to market conditions. The key issues associated with sustainable tourism are the achievement of social inclusion, effectual environmental protection, and reliable economic development. These are yet to be seen if achievable with the all-inclusive resorts. Many have had to look for ways of encouraging and enhancing international diffusion, as well as knowledge exchange. This has to do with the volatile nature of tourism as a business; the reason for this dynamism is political instability and fluctuation of currency (Nagle, 1999). This paper also discusses the key issues facing the industry, the main challenge being globalisation. Tourism as a business entity responds to globalisation by creating alliances and collaborations. The public sector is mostly concerned to provide protection to small businesses that face the challenge of globalisation. It has to be acknowledged that the tourism industry has not been embracing the advantages of the knowledge economy, especially by utilising management practices and increasing competition through innovation and development of new products. A well networked tourism industry incorporates adequate knowledge of globalisation and economy. By so doing, the industry benefits from global trends. Network developments can be used to see the weak points in the industry by examining destination and tourism. Anon (2011) identifies that â€Å"embeddedness within networks is identified as a key strategy for survival for contemporary tourism businesses† (p. 261). The concept of tourism sustainability began in late 20th century when the tourism industry turned green (Swarbrooke, 1999). The aim was to have

The Various Aspects of Contract and Tort Law Essay - 11

The Various Aspects of Contract and Tort Law - Essay Example This research will begin with the essential elements for the formation of the contract in the UK and â€Å"invitation to treat†. Some common elements that are included in the formation of contract signify various features incorporated in a contract and its legal clauses. The valid contract that needs to be developed in case of the corporate sector should first focus on the situation for which the contract is being made. Although the basic elements of the contract remain same in most of the cases, the nature and duty of the contract change on the basis of the requirements. Some of the common elements required for formation of a basic contract have been evaluated below. Offer: Offer is the first and one of the two primary elements of a contract. Offer is formed on the basis of a consideration which enables the parties to the contract to develop a proposal. The offer must have clarity regarding the consideration involved and should have a specific timeframe for its acceptance. Th e advertisement of James for selling the printing press for  £50000 is an open offer. The offer for selling office computer Ann was also an offer. Acceptance: Acceptance is the second primary element of a contract and is done in response to the offer. The acceptance is based on the consideration provided by the offeree. The acceptance is also limited by the time frame and should be clearly mentioned. The reply on the part of Jenny in regard to the offer of James shows the acceptance of an offer. However, as Jenny had stated in new terms in her acceptance it can also be treated as a counteroffer. The counteroffer was made when Jenny offered an amount of  £40000 which nullified the previous offer. However, silence on the part of Jenny cannot be considered as acceptance.

Informal Letter About Top Two Things I Learned This Semester About My Essay

Informal Letter About Top Two Things I Learned This Semester About My Writing - Essay Example In terms of the step-by-step process, there were a great many aspects that I learned about and skills I strengthened throughout the course. While I had previously viewed writing essays as a more free-form means of expression, I increasingly came to understand that in following certain steps my writing would improve. In these regards, I now begin my writing be developing a detailed outline of what I am going to write. In brainstorming and developing an outline, I am able to produce more developed ideas that ultimately make my essay stronger and more complex. While I recognized that writing constitutes specific forms, through this course I learned how to better adhere to these forms with the necessary structure and information. In these regards, I learned how to better develop an introductory paragraph that would set the tone of the essay, provide necessary background information, and include a thesis statement that would describe what the body paragraphs would contain. I also learned the importance of topic sentences that would lead to sentences that contained examples and information that supported the main purpose of the essay. Finally, I came to understand the importance of a conclusion paragraph that would summarize the key points that were raised in the body paragraphs. The other thing I learned about my writing during this course was the importance of the research process.

Is Global Warming due to Human Actions Research Paper

Is Global Warming due to Human Actions - Research Paper Example Thesis Statement Global warming has already spread across the world and damaging the earth and its people. Until and unless the people of the earth realize the result of the global warming and take corrective measures it would keep damaging the earth and a day would come when the earth would be full of carbon dioxide and it would be almost impossible to remain alive (ThinkQuest, n.d.). Discussion Change is a process which is always tough to adapt or accept, and when there are changes in the environment and in the nature, it is one of the biggest challenges to face. Changes in nature and environment alter the system of the living style, the weather, the habits, and the temperature. The term ‘global warming’ has become a threat to the world. The problem is more intense even than that of terrorism. Terrorism might affect a certain part of the world, but global warming is having its toll throughout the whole world. Global warming is causing change in the climate, in the natu re and society among others. The balance of the ecology and the environment is very much necessary, but the people of the earth are damaging the environment for their personal interests. The relationship between the nature and human being is based on the ‘Give and Take’ policy. If people are taking resources from the nature they are supposed to give it back to the nature as well. In other words, human beings are causing trouble for themselves by deforestation, by releasing fuel, and by releasing smoke among others. Global warming can be an effect of emission of gasses, but the main causes of global warming is the negligence of the human beings and lack of responsibility towards the society (Hansen, 2006). The Causes of Global Warming One of the major reasons to cause global warming is the ever increasing pollution. All over the world, there are about ‘164.0 motor vehicles per 100 people’ running on the streets (Nation Master, 2011), resulting in a high rate of carbon dioxide in the air. The other reason to cause global warming includes burning the fossil fuel, which also causes emission of large amount of greenhouse gas. Overpopulation of the world is the other cause of global warming. The modern world is focusing very much into the housing and property sector, which is resulting in deforestation. Cutting the trees causes more Carbon Di-Oxide (CO2) in the atmosphere. Not only air pollution but the water and the land pollution are also reasons behind the global warming. Almost every river and cannel is getting polluted due to the continuous emission of the waste from the factories. The villagers use the water for washing cloths and utensils, and they dump all their garbage in the water. These can be certain other reasons to cause global warming (Houghton, 2004). The Effects of Global Warming Global Warming affects the world in many ways, but the major effect of the global warming is the change in the climate. The other effects of globa l warming are, damage in the ozone layer, which is allowing more sun rays and the ultra violate rays to enter the world, which is harmful for the people. It is also resulting in higher water level of the sea, which can cause tsunami anytime. The global warming causes a change in the climate of the environment, which can be noticed by extreme cold or extreme hot weather. The

Critique of Article About Primate Behavior Essay

Critique of Article About Primate Behavior - Essay Example Much of the researches about chimpanzees have been utilized to provide clues to human behavior. This is not a surprise as chimpanzees are the closest living relatives of humans; hence, share a number of traits such as the sense of self and community, the capacity use tools in building their nests and in hunting. Chimpanzees have high intellectual capacity, one that is â€Å"familiar to human beings†¦a type of behavior which counts as specifically human† (Goodall). By looking at the various factors of meat consumption among chimpanzees, the researchers hope to gain an insight into the diet and behavior of the last common ancestors of humans and apes and perhaps, understand the costs and benefits of human consumption of meat. The researches reviewed available literature on chimpanzee diet and hunting behavior in order to determine the costs and benefits of acquiring and consuming various forms of animal matter. They utilized the meat scrap hypothesis which states that â€Å"there is a net benefit to obtaining a mere scrap of meat, even when there is a net energetic cost† (Tennie, O’Malley, and Gilby 2) as a guide for their research. Results of the research showed that the chimpanzees preys on atleast 32 species of smaller mammals, lizards, amphibians and birds which are often found in undergrowths or in a tree hollow. It was also discovered that nutritional yield, acquisition cost, yield per minute, local abundance and availability of prey were the major factors that affect chimpanzee consumption of vertebrate and invertebrate prey. Of all its prey, the termite soldiers, termite alates, dorylus ants and the red colobus monkey are the chimpanzees’ favorite.

Investigator training should focus on the structure of an Essay

Investigator training should focus on the structure of an investigation rather than the skill of the Investigator Examine this statement - Essay Example As a result, investigator training has become a critical component in preparing the investigators for their paramount role and duty in society. However, given the scenario in modern environment, it can be noted that, the role played by investigators will continue to evolve and this particular aspect will greatly affect the level, nature, content, and context of training such investigators should have. Therefore, even as training of investigators remains critical and important, the question being asked is whether the training methodology should put more focus on the structure of an investigation or on the skills of the investigator. Subsequent discussions will try to examine and analyse the statement in a deeper understanding and conceptualization. Investigators have been found to be important professionals in the dispensation of numerous activities in new world (Chandler, 2009). This is so, given that, the modern world is characterized by myriad of issues and challenges. The social world and overall human interaction is no longer at peace, since there are increased reports of terrorism activities, accidents of diverse natures, thefts of different types and magnitudes, frauds of any kind, and all sought of evil activities in society. The occurrence of these activities impacts heavily and negatively on different social institutions, actors, structures, and systems. As a result, there has been the need to identify the various ways to deal with such problems. Part of solution to these problems has been found to lie with investigators. Investigators, in their capacity as professionals, are perceived to have knowledge, skills, and sometimes experience to help other professionals identify, describe, evaluate, and analyze different a ctivities that qualify to be investigated. Michaelides-Mateou and Mateou (2010) study and analyze investigators specializing in aviation

Critique of Article About Primate Behavior Essay

Critique of Article About Primate Behavior - Essay Example Much of the researches about chimpanzees have been utilized to provide clues to human behavior. This is not a surprise as chimpanzees are the closest living relatives of humans; hence, share a number of traits such as the sense of self and community, the capacity use tools in building their nests and in hunting. Chimpanzees have high intellectual capacity, one that is â€Å"familiar to human beings†¦a type of behavior which counts as specifically human† (Goodall). By looking at the various factors of meat consumption among chimpanzees, the researchers hope to gain an insight into the diet and behavior of the last common ancestors of humans and apes and perhaps, understand the costs and benefits of human consumption of meat. The researches reviewed available literature on chimpanzee diet and hunting behavior in order to determine the costs and benefits of acquiring and consuming various forms of animal matter. They utilized the meat scrap hypothesis which states that â€Å"there is a net benefit to obtaining a mere scrap of meat, even when there is a net energetic cost† (Tennie, O’Malley, and Gilby 2) as a guide for their research. Results of the research showed that the chimpanzees preys on atleast 32 species of smaller mammals, lizards, amphibians and birds which are often found in undergrowths or in a tree hollow. It was also discovered that nutritional yield, acquisition cost, yield per minute, local abundance and availability of prey were the major factors that affect chimpanzee consumption of vertebrate and invertebrate prey. Of all its prey, the termite soldiers, termite alates, dorylus ants and the red colobus monkey are the chimpanzees’ favorite.

Business plan - CoViTek Essay Example for Free

Business plan CoViTek Essay CoViTek is an Atlanta based company that offers a unique value added service to the $11 billion dollars video rental industry. CoViTek will revolutionize the industry by renting movies through its video vending machines. These machines are already experiencing tremendous success in Europe, where they were invented. Customers will now be able to rent videos twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week in a timely and efficient manner at the lowest price. Our machines can be implemented anywhere, even in locations that are not accessible to our brick and mortar competitors, and we will therefore focus our efforts on all the strategic locations. Reve-lution Int. will offer a unique business-to-consumer service for the rental of videos and DVDs. The technology, containing a fully automated system, will facilitate continuous rental and return of movies bridging the gap between video stores, who only are open 15 hours a day, and services such as the nonexistent Kozmo. com, who offer video delivery for a premium price. The company has a cost-per-action (CPA) pricing structure. CoViTeks target customers will include universities with a student body of at least 10,000 in addition to the rest of the city of Atlanta for the first six months of operation. CoViTek will provide their clientele with a complete set of integrated tools within the machine to make accurate and enjoyable purchasing decisions. CoViTek will give video rental customers the freedom of rental 24 hours a day, seven days a week, all year long. CoViTek will build the worlds truly first convenient and efficient rental system Target Customers Movie rentals have proven to be an integral part of the everyday lives of the American population. With more than $11 billion dollars in rental sales in 1999, we acknowledge the aggregate demand for the video rental industry. Constantly seeking immediate gratification, video rental stores want the most efficient and cost-effective methods of satisfying their customers. CoViTek will make rentals simple by providing consumers the most efficient tools for with which to initialize a rental process. With the killer application technology used in these machines, the customer will be able to conduct multiple searches in order to rent the movie of their desire. CoViTek will further assist them through the provisions of an active preference search, which is currently being used by Amazon. com. This application will determine what the customer rented last and list the preferred movies of that category the customer will like based on past rental behavior. CoViTeks potential customers will represent the bulk of video rental households who value rental outlet convenience and flexible payment plans. CoViTek will strive for the most efficient, cost-flexible payments and active searches for preservation of quality time. Market Growth Perspective According to analyst Paul Keagan Associates, at home movie consumption expenditures will increase approximately 40% by 2005 to $27 billion, almost triple the amount spent in 1990. The vast majority of these expenditures, about 83%, will be for video/DVD rentals and retail. However, movie consumption will also encompass pay-per-view and video on demand (VOD) available through cable and satellite services. Video Production Companies Ninety percent of our videotapes will come from one of the six major production companies: 1. Buena Vista 2. Warner Bros. 3. Universal 4. Fox 5. Paramount, or 6. Columbia-Tri-Star The power of these suppliers is very high, as they hold the exclusive rights to the movies they produce. One of our late competitors, Kozmo. com, has built a unique strategic partnership with these production companies. They have developed a profit sharing system with the major production companies requiring no initial investment in the videos, but agreeing to give 40% of the revenue generated by the rentals to the producer of the movie. We believe that this profit sharing system is financially unattractive, although it will allow us to reduce our initial investment costs; it minimizes our profits which in turn will delay our expansion strategy. We will use an initial video vendor, Video Bicicling, based out of Texas to supply us with our videos and DVDs. They will provide us with the most up-do-date movies for competitive prices. Competitor Differentiation CoViTek differentiates itself from its competitors in several key areas. While companies such as Blockbuster and Hollywood Entertainment offer the same features, only CoViTek will incorporate all of the features described below in a way that gives consumers the ultimate ease of use, active preference search, and extremely convenient locations of operations. Time Availability CoViTeks competitive advantage is based on its time availability for rentals. The machines will be open and available for usage 24 hours a day, seven days a week, all year round. CoViTek will keep customer service readily available even throughout holidays. Strategic Locations CoViTek will implement the vending machines in key strategic locations after performing a detailed demo-geographical analysis of the city of Atlanta. Locations will initially be university campuses and later the urban areas of the city. Each machine will be located in areas where there is heavy human traffic. Payment Flexibility Our pricing will be flexible depending on the amount of time the video is out. Since CoViTek is a system that is open 24 hours a day there are no late fees associated in our model. Our standard rental time for DVDs is midnight of the following day for a price between $2. 50-$3. 00. Each additional day will be between $1. 50-$2. 00. Video Cassettes will be $3. 99 and if returned within 24 hours $1will be credited back. Each additional day will be $1. 99. (Based on new releases) Active Search CoViTek will use an innovative application technology which actively searches for videos categorized by title, actor, new releases, type of movie (action, thriller, comedy), and most frequently rented movies. Relative Competitive Factor Blockbuster Video Hollywood Video Kozmo. com CoViTek Relative Product Quality and Differentiation i i i i Flexible Payment Plan i E-commerce Based i i Brand Recognition % 100% 63% 40% N/A Locations around campuses i i i i Locations on Campuses i i Large video selection.i i Number of employees less than 5/ location i One of the most compelling aspects of the CoViTek model is its portability into untapped realms of video rental opportunities. This will provide the company with a critical advantage-the flexibility to transform itself in response to competitive challenges or to shifts in the video rental market environment. CoViTeks flexibility will give downside protection to its owners by insuring that new, innovative means of generating cash flow can be realized. Future elements of CoViTek may include: National Expansion. Video rental opportunities in selected national markets such as: Washington D. C. , Los Angeles, Miami and Huston. Washington D. C: our second location has similar features to our first city of operation. It has a few large universities, widely used public transportation, and high pedestrian traffic. The schools we target will be American University, George Washington University, and Georgetown University. Our downtown locations will depend on areas where there is an intersection of the public transportation lines and high pedestrian traffic. Data Distribution. Future plans may include the sale of CoViTeks proprietary online consumer data to the major video production companies. Specialized Machine Content Another growth opportunity for CoViTek in the future is the implementation of machines with customized video selection. The content of these machines will be select videos and DVDs targeted toward an audience based on specific themes. These machines will be placed in strategic locations based around their themes. Some possible themed machines may include: classic movie machines, foreign movie machines with Spanish subtitles or dubbing, and award-winning movie machines. The placement of these machines will require careful market analysis and planning, and therefore we plan to wait before implementation to gather enough data about the market and the purchasing patterns of our customers. Investment Needs Michel Khoury founder of CoViTek, has accumulated cash in excess of $10,000 for the development and the start-up cost of the company. CoViTek is now prepared to obtain financing through establishing a line of credit and implementing an equipment loan for its initial machine. It will later apply for loans as needed in order to buy more machines as it expands its operation. Using the machines and earnings as collateral CoViTek should have sufficient funds to obtain a line of credit that will secure its implementation of strategy. The initial stage of funding will be used to complete Web-site development, obtain one machines, invest in computer hardware and software, lease location space needed for the machines and market CoViTek during the first 12 months of operations. After 12 to 18 months of operation, CoViTek will require an infusion of an additional $15,000 to expand its brand image and increase its service offerings at an accelerated pace. Successful development and operation of CoViTek will allow it to be self-sufficient within approximately 9 to 12 months of initial operation. CoViTek will be a for-profit company incorporated in the state of Georgia. CoViTek Start up costs Machines $20,246. 64 Inventory: video tapes $9,210 Cash/ month $2,808 Advertising $8,000 Legal Accounting $7,000 Insurance $3,000 TOTAL $50,264. 64 Management team Michel Khoury Chief Executive Officer Founder While founding CoViTek, Michel Khoury is Assistant Managing Director at Bear, Stearns Co. Inc. He is working hand in hand with the Managing Director of the company in order to implement a system of bringing foreign investment to the company. He has had significance experience with young ventures as he has participated in the creation of several companies nationally and internationally. Michel Khoury is also consultant to the CEO of Santege Capital Asset Management Group in New York City. Michel Khoury graduated in May of 2001 from Emory University with a Bachelor of Business administration with concentrations in Finance, Consulting, Venture Management and Marketing.

The Amish Educational Exemption

The Amish Educational Exemption How might a liberal philosopher argue for the view that it was right to grant an exemption in this case? How might a liberal philosopher argue against this view? Which side has the stronger argument? The question concerns the request by Amish Parents for a Cultural Exemption to the state of Wisconsins Universal Law requiring all children to attend school up to the age of sixteen. It asks for opposite liberal philosophical arguments, should a Universal, Difference Blind Law prevail across all cultural groups, are the Amish an exception. It raises questions of equality and definition. It asks that if a Cultural Exemption is allowed do they have franchise, is it fair, affect third parties, promotes equality, is there autonomy within the cultural group, and is it uniform in its application within the group and important to its cultural way of life and religion. Clearly important principals for the Amish and Amish Parents are at stake but crucially mechanisms are in place to accommodate differing cultural minorities within dominant Western cultures allowing examination of the arguments and the granting where appropriate of Exemptions to Universal Difference Blind rules. Philosophical Liberal traditions underpin legislators use of exemptions using rules, principals and definitions to adapt Universal Difference Blind laws. These work towards the protection of minorities, preserving Cultural Differences and righting discrimination. A case-by-case discovery carried out using where appropriate, argument by analogy established by previous findings and argument in the Liberal tradition help ensure legitimacy in each case and to provides that principles such as equality and fairness prevail (Pike. 2008, p95, p96) The first argument offered in accordance with the essay question is in favour of the decision by the US Supreme Court to grant an Exemption to the Amish Parents. The application of a Difference Blind Law on this cultural group was unfair in its consequence on their religion, culture and way of life. The Amish are a society with settled culture and traditions their members have adequate cultural and religious resources to thrive and live autonomous lives within their own cultural identity and group. It is possible to leave or join the Amish group culture giving choice as to continuing physical involvement however as described in Reading 3.1 (Margalit and Raz. 1990, in Pike, P118). `given the pervasive nature of the culture of groups†¦their influence on individuals who grow up in their midst is profound and far reaching. Soas members of this cultural group they would find profound difficulty in adjusting to other cultures making a life outside the Amish problematic. One could argue that a consequence of that is that there is no choice, that an autonomous life outside their cultural group would be unsuccessful. Their religion deeply entwined as it is in their way of life and which especially in respect to the teaching of their children places great emphasis on ethical living, hard work and becoming a valuable member of the Amish community (Exploring-amish-country.com, 2017). In support of their contention that their children should not attend school beyond the age of 14 (against the State requirement of attending until the age of 16), they argue that the State run schools would teach their children values that would be `incompatible with the Amish way of life and endanger their childrens salvation (Cornell.2015 in Assignment Booklet. P36). The Amish parents were concerned that in both real and subliminal terms this law would expose their children to temptations around, at and in schools and taught subjects by the schools that would lead to behaviour that was incompatible with their Religious and cultural roots. The second argument offered in favour of an exemption is one by way of analogy. Taking the exemption offered to the Musqueam band of British Columbia as the analogy supporting the case for a Cultural Exemption to the Difference Blind Rule. There are case differences of course but the key point made here is that the exemption given was not only on aboriginal fishing rights but also on the grounds of cultural identity and a desire by the legislators to preserve a long established way of life. `For the Musqueam, the salmon fishery has always constituted an integral part of their distinctive culture (Pike. 2008, p103). The parallel drawn is between the schooling arrangements the Amish had long organised themselves and taught in their traditional One Room schools up to the age of 14. A tradition of long standing that cherished and developed their children in the Amish culture, Religion and way of life. It was under threat by the States change of policy to bring schools together and impose education to the age of 16. Meaning bussing out of area and exposing their children to temptations that the Amish considered would put their mortal souls at risk. Amish educations objective is to prepare their children to take a useful and full part in Amish religious and cultural life. To work hard, live ethically and be a valuable member of the Amish community is the objective of their schooling. The intent is not to promote individuality and critical thinking. Amish education `does not seek to create artists, scientists, musicians or actors but it will teach separateness from the world (Exploring-amish-country.com, 2017). The changes proposed by the Canadian Department of Fisheries also imposed serious changes to the cultural mores of the Musqueam band that in time would have irrevocably changed their culture and tradition. The arguments supported as they are by the criteria given by Prof Parekh in his interview for the Audio CD (Pike, Parekh. 2008, Track 5, Discussing Cultural Exemptions).   In recognising which differences crucially acknowledged, `Fundamental moral principals†¦ historical culture of community†¦.the amount of destabilisation that recognition of it is going to involve in terms of organisation and structure of the institution. To impose thesechanges on the Amish parents would impose a profound change to their way of life in similar fashion to the changes to the fishing rights now exempted by the Canadian authorities. Exposed to cultural differences that were intolerant of their religion and way of life; the law was a major imposition on and unfair to the Amish community therefore. In attempting to create a Universal, Difference Blind law that required all children, attend school after 8th grade put the Amish at risk, of, in time loosing their cultural identity. As an alternative argument, the case of overriding principal offers a valid reason for not granting an Exemption from the Universal Law. The State of Wisconsin has a duty to legislate equally and apply the law uniformly to all its citizens. The Principal of equal schooling for all cannot be detrimental to any of its citizens as the key is to teach the same curriculum to all children in the state. The argument of unequal impact cannot succeed as all children are subject to the same rules and enjoy the benefits that higher education will bring (Pike, Parekh. 2008, Track 4, Discussing Cultural Exemptions). In taking the principal of equal schooling for all within a Difference Blind Law, the State is treating all of its citizens uniformly, equally and in a non-discriminatory manner. Another argument against could be made on behalf of the Amish children as it could be argued that they would be discriminated against unfairly if they were denied an opportunity to attend higher education. Who is to say that the Amish children do not want to engage with the world to a greater degree than their parents do unless fully consulted? For society to live in harmony it is reasonable to learn more about other traditions, understanding would promote tolerance. Access to alternative cultures and a broader curriculum through higher education, exposing the Amish children to the opportunity of learning about other cultures and ways of life will help them understand the world as a whole. There would be a detrimental effect on the child if granted Exemption, especially if it compromised their right to determine their own autonomy in the future. Importantly it would reduce choice for the children of the Amish reducing their chance of autonomy in other societies should they choose to transfer from one to the other In conclusion these were serious considerations for the Amish community and their release from this universal, Difference Blind Law, which challenged their culture, religion and long-term existence was a fair decision by the US Supreme Court albeit tinged by a question over the rights of their children to take a part of this debate. They have argued successfully that this law had a `particular religious and cultural significance for them (Pike. 2008, p102) enforcement infringes their right to practice their religion and lead a peaceful autonomous life within the confines of their chosen cultural resources. A key objective of and foundation of the franchise of any Democratic Government such as that of the United States of America where this case originates must be to legislate equally (taking account that equally is not uniformity) (Pike, Parekh. 2008, Track 3, Discussing Cultural Exemptions) and fairly across the whole of the population. Anything else provides a platform for conflict and a lightning rod for discord. Humans are complicated, not renowned for their uniformity; many diverse cultures successfully make up humankind. Blanket universal difference blind laws do work for some of the issues facing a legislator and can form the starting point, `Thou shalt not kill for instance but there are many instances where common sense, pragmatism and kindness should prevail, echo real life and allow Cultural Exemptions to Universal Law. The argument being that in order to live together we need to be respectful and revere other cultures, learn from them and protect them if possible. Word count;1566 Bibliography Pike, J. (2008) `Cultural Encounters and Cultural Exemptions in AA100 Book 3: Cultural Encounters. Milton Keynes, Open University, chapter 3 Audio CD: Discussing Cultural Exemption Tutorials given by David Forrest and Susie Wood and tutorial handout materials Amishamericacom. (2017). Amishamericacom. Retrieved 23 March, 2017, from http://amishamerica.com/why-do-amish-only-go-to-school-until-8th-grade schwieder; morain. (2009). A peculiar people: Iowas old order Amish: an expanded edition. : Iowa City: University of Iowa Press. Exploring-amish-country.com. (2017). A LOOK AT AMISH EDUCATION. [online] Available at: http://www.exploring-amish-country.com/amish-education.html [Accessed 24 Mar. 2017].

families Essay -- essays research papers

The importance of families has been espoused by all since the inception of modern times. Considered by most to be the backbone of America, it is how we socially and culturally indoctrinate our offspring so they are able to become a functional member of society. A lack of a full family is often cited as the reason that children end up as criminals or delinquents. The notion of family being the birthplace of problems is not even something most people could find feasible, which is what makes Barbara Ehrenreicht’s essay â€Å"Are Families Dangerous?† seem a bit out in left field to most readers. But upon closer inspection and reflection into ones own family life, and the lives of those around them, Ehrenreicht’s essay begins to make a lot more sense. It is because of my understanding of values within our culture and my own personal experience with my family that I believe Ehrenreicht’s essay on family is completely true in the ideas that it expresses. Most of us choose only to recall fond memories of our youth when we speak about how great family life is, though the reality of things is that few of us have a perfect youth with our family and it is often peppered with emotional and physical harm. Ehrenreicht hits the nail on the head when she talks about the plight of the wife, many of their problems come not from outside of the house, but within. Turn to any daytime TV show to see the crying and emotional pain that family members cause, whether it be from physical or emotional abuse....

Immigrants Do NOT Increase Crime Rates Essay -- Undocumented Immagrant

The thought of arriving immigrants in any host country has been accompanied by reactions of exclusion, and continues to expand throughout the years. During any social illness, immigrants tend to be the first to be held responsible by their recipient societies. Most crimes are associated with immigrants due to the fact that they may not posses the same socio-economics status as natives. Another contributing factor is the media that conducts numerous stories that highlight the image of immigrant crimes to recall the alleged difference between native and foreign born. Undoubtedly, the correlation between immigration and crime has become one of the most controversial discussions in current society. As we enter a new era, immigrants will have more impact on society than ever before (Feldmeyer, 2009). There can be numerous reasons to believe immigrants are more prone to commit crimes, for example, they have to learn to adapt into the cultural traits and social patterns of the harboring country, as natives do not (Desmond & Kubrin, 2009). However, despite such claims, empirical studies have revealed that immigrants are understated in criminal statistics. Throughout the years many texts and scholarly articles have been published further analyzing and proving that immigrants are less prone to committing crimes than their native peers. Furthermore, researchers examine the reason as to why immigrants are weighed as a whole even though ethnic groups among immigrants have different rates of crime. For example, Hispanic immigrants are far more prone to commit crimes than a Japanese immigrant. This makes it unfair to consider that because a Japanese is an immigrant, they are also more prone to commit crimes. Much like in the past, the publ... ...untries. International Journal of Comparative Sociology, 52,115-131 http://cos.sagepub.com.libaccess.lib.mcmaster.ca/content/52/1-2/114 Desmond, S. A., & Kubrin, C. E. (2009). THE POWER OF PLACE: Immigrant communities and adolescent violence, The Sociological Quarterly, 50, 581-607 http://www.gwu.edu/~soc/docs/Kubrin/Immig_Communities.pdf Feldmeyer, B. (2009). Immigration and violence: The offsetting effects of immigrant concentration on Latino violence. Social Science Research, 38, 717-731 http://journals2.scholarsportal.info.libaccess.lib.mcmaster.ca/tmp/9506051508484483171.pdf Nielsen, A. L., & Martinez, R. (2011). Nationality, immigrant groups, and arrest: Examining the diversity of arrestees for urban violent crime. Journal of Contemporary Criminal Justice, 27, 343-360 http://ccj.sagepub.com.libaccess.lib.mcmaster.ca/content/27/3/342

Pros and cons of working as a doctor Essay

I’d like to tell you about the pros and cons of working as a doctor. There are a lot of interesting trades and all of them are important and useful. After finishing secondary school young people may enter an institute or a university to prepare for different professions. Some of them require high qualification and education, such as doctors, teachers, developers, scientists etc. But there is no doubt that working as a doctor is a demanding job with both advantages and disadvantages. There are several arguments in favour of working as a doctor. To begin with, it’s a rewarding job because doctors help sick or injured people to recover. It is very important and in most countries this work is well-paid. For instance, doctor’s earning ranged from about $156,000 a year for pediatricians to about $315,000 for radiologists and orthopedic surgeons. Furthermore, doctors are rarely out of work because there is always a demand for people to treat the sick or injured. However, there are also a number of disadvantages to being a doctor. Firstly, it’s a tiring job because they work shifts and often work at night. For example, doctors must always be prepared to deal with any number of sick at any time. It is also stressful job because they are in charge of the life of people. In addition, it can be depressing because they often see people suffering. To conclude, I must say that it is not an easy profession and quite a hard job. Unfortunately, in our country this work is badly-paid. But it is impossible to imagine the life of the society without doctors.

Chick Growth Enhancer Essay

ABSTRACT The study is entitled â€Å"Aloe Vera as Chick Growth Enhancer†. Specifically, it sought to find out the efficacy of Aloe Vera as a growth enhancer in broiler chicks. The study aims to produce a low-priced but high quality growth enhancer by using Aloe Vera as a main component. Twenty-one day old straight run broiler chicks were used in the study and were distributed to a cage with a dimension of (33 x 57). The cage was further subdivided into two cages for the different treatments with two birds per cage. Fresh leaves of Aloe Vera were then extracted, 5ml per liter of water. Feeding troughs and waters were also provided for each cage. The set up was composed of experimental and control group. The experimental group was being provided with water containing the Aloe Vera gel. In the other hand, the control group was being provided with only pure water. Data were collected to gather relevant information. The results obtained regarding performance of the broilers showed that Aloe Vera gel groups brought about higher body weight gain, growth, quality of feathers and immune system compared to the control group. From the investigation, the researchers would like to recommend this study to the people of the poultry business who would pursue the Aloe Vera as Chick Growth Enhancer to improve the performance of broiler chicks. Also, further research should be made especially on the right amounts of Aloe Vera in water to achieve a better mixture and produce a better product. ACKNOWLEDGEMENT This study would have been impossible without the support and encouragement of many individuals who have given their time, efforts and advice to this study: Mr. Ronel Deloso, their adviser, for having encouraged the researchers to pursue this project, having assisted them in the process of their experiment and for having shared his knowledge in writing this study; Their parents, Mr. and Mrs. Rony Vasquez, Mr. and Mrs. Stewart Ong, and Mr. Malvin Tan and Mrs. Mildred Nakila for the financial and moral support and for believing in them in all their endeavors; also to their friends, classmates and teachers for motivating them to continue this study; Their brothers, Gabrielle, Keith and Joshua for endlessly inspiring them and for offering their help, regardless if it’s big or small; Mr. Raffy K. Fortun, for assisting them in taking care of the chicks and for providing the cages needed for the experiment, for sharing them his expertise and for his suggestions and recommendations to improve the study; Mr. Glenn R. Galendez, for his undying support and faith in them that they were capable of accomplishing this study; and To Almighty God for the wisdom and perseverance that He has bestowed upon them and for endlessly showering them with blessings of strength and confidence to finish this study. CHAPTER I Broiler production is regarded to be one of the biggest and most progressive animal enterprises in the Philippines today. It represents 85 percent of poultry meat that Filipinos consume. As human population increases, the demand for poultry and poultry by products continue to rise. It is therefore advisable to source alternative ways to enhance and hasten animal’s growth. Aloe Vera is found helpful to this cause because it contains vitamins and minerals essential to improve the growth of broiler chicks. In this study, Aloe Vera is used as a growth enhancer substitute. Background of the Study Chicks are young chickens. They require special brooding and temperatures, as well as unique feed and care until they reach a more self-sufficient age. Furthermore, there is a high demand of chickens in the world not only in the Philippines but in the entire world. â€Å"Poultry production is considered one of the most common and very promising agricultural enterprises especially for low income farm families.† It offers several advantages to the raisers. Vitamins A, B and vitamin E, among other vitamins and minerals, are needed by chicks to grow. Aloe Vera is a house plant which comes from the family of lily. It is native to the eastern and southern part of Africa but it has spread throughout many of the warmer regions of the world like the Philippines. Physically, it is a short-stemmed plant that could grow from 80 to 100 cm tall, spreading by offsets and root sprouts. The leaves are lanceolate, thick and fleshy with thorny edges and with color ranging from deep green to grey - green. â€Å"Aloe vera is rich in vitamins and minerals. Specific vitamins include: Vitamin A (Beta-Carotene), Vitamin B1 (Thiamine), Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin), Vitamin B3 (Niacin), Vitamin B5, Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine), Vitamin B12, Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Choline, and Folic Acid. The vitamins A, C, and E are responsible for the aloe’s antioxidant activity while vitamin B and choline are involved in amino acid metabolism and vitamin B12 is required for the production and development of blood cells. Among the important minerals found in Aloe Vera are: calcium, chromium, copper, iron, magnesium, manganese, potassium, phosphorous,  sodium, and zinc. These minerals are essential for good health and are known to work in synergistic combinations with each other, with vitamins and other trace elements.† Objective of the Study This investigatory project primarily aims to test the efficacy of Aloe Vera (Aloe barbadensis miller) as a substitute growth enhancer in chicks. More specifically, the study espouses the following objectives: 1. To determine if there is a difference in: a. weight b. growth c. feathers d. immune system Scope and Limitation The study will be conducted at a small poultry farm where the chicks will be observed for 21 days. Fresh leaves of Aloe Vera will serve as the source of extract that will be used in this study. The sample will be freshly collected before extracting. The study focuses on how Aloe Vera (Aloe barbadensis miller) leaves extract give potential as a substitute growth enhancer in chicks. Significance of the Study The study would answer the effectiveness of Aloe Vera (Aloe barbadensis miller) as Chick Growth Enhancer. The result of this study will provide information not only to the researchers but also to the people of the poultry business. CHAPTER II Review of Related Literature Lorenzo said that Aloe Vera leaf extract contains nutrients which enhance the growth of animals and even boost their immunity (davaoagribiz.da.gov.ph). Chung (2003) stated that vitamins must be present in sufficient quantities in the diet to ensure efficient utilization of carbohydrates, protein, fats, minerals, and water for health and maintenance and production function such as growth development and reproduction. Poultry Raising Guide (1975) cited that in the presence of stressful condition like the movement of the birds,  the presence of infection, sudden change of weather and feeding practices, vaccination, deworming and debeaking birds need to be supplemented with vitamins. Aloe gel contains substances known as glycoproteins and polysaccharides. Glycoproteins speed the healing process by stopping pain and inflammation, while polysaccharides stimulate skin growth and repair. These substances may also stimulate the immune system. This is according to University of Maryland (2013) Bejar and Colapo (2005) said that Aside from vitamins and minerals, aloe vera is rich with enzymes (help the breakdown of food sugars and fats), hormones (aid in healing and anti-inflammatory activities), sugars (i.e. glucose and fructose that provide anti-inflammatory activity), anthraquinones or phenolic compounds (aid absorption from gastro-intestinal tract and have antimicrobial and pain killing effects), lignin (increases the blood circulation), saponins (provide cleansing and antiseptic activity), sterols (antiseptic and analgesic), amino acids (basic building blocks of proteins in the production of muscle tissue), and salicylic acid (works as a pain killer).† Olupona et al. (2010) reported that Aloe Vera gel added to water (15, 20, 25 and 30 cm3/dm3) resulted in significant final body weight gain as well as in weekly body weight gain compared to control group. Several studies have shown antimicrobial properties of herb extracts (Cowan, 1999; Hammer et al., 1999) which can improve intestinal microflora population and enhance health in birds’ digestive systems through reduction in number of disease-making bacteria (Mitsch et al., 2004). Intestinal health is of great importance in poultry for improved performance and reduced feed conversion ratio (Montagne et al., 2003). Previous studies discovered different properties of Aloe Vera gel, including wound healing, anti-parasitic, anti-viral, anti-fungal and anti-bacterial properties (Boudreau and Beland, 2006; Reynolds and Dweck, 1999). CHAPTER III Methodology A total of twenty-one (21) day old straight run broiler chicks were used in the study and were distributed to a cage with a dimension of (57 x 33). The cage was further subdivided into two (2) cages for the different treatments with two (2) birds per cage. 3 days prior to the arrival of the chicks the  cages were prepared thoroughly and provided with electric bulb as heaters up to 3 weeks 21 days of age and until their feathers were fully developed. Fresh leaves of Aloe Vera were then extracted, 5ml per liter of water. Feeding troughs containing chick pellets and waterers were provided for each cage. The set up was composed of experimental and control group. The experimental group was being provided with water containing the Aloe Vera gel. On the other hand, the control group was being provided with only pure water. The observations in weight, growth, feathers and immune system was made weekly by the researchers. A digital weighing scale was used to measure the weight while a tape measure was used to determine the growth. The chicks were observed as starters (4-10 days), growers (10-15 days), and finishers (15-21) days. However, the final observations were made at the total experiment period. CHAPTER IV Results and Discussion Table 1 presents the results on the experiments on body weight gain. As seen in the table, the larger body weight gain was observed in the Aloe Vera group in the starter, grower and finisher, as well as the total experiment period. In the starter period, significant increase in body weight gain was observed in the both the Aloe Vera and control groups. However, in the grower and finisher periods, the larger body weight gain was observed in the Aloe Vera group compared to the control group. Finally, the results on body weight gain in the total period (day 21) showed a significant difference among the Aloe Vera and control group. In addition, the Aloe Vera gel groups experienced enhanced body weight gain compared to the control group. The results of the experiments on growth are shown in Table 2. Here, the Aloe Vera group showed higher level of growth in broilers. During the starter period both groups had the same measure of height in centimeters. Significant differences were observed in the grower and finisher periods that Aloe Vera indeed has an effect in the growth of broilers. Table 3 shows the results of treatments on feathers in broilers. As shown in the table, there was a significant difference observed between the two  groups. In the starter and grower periods, both groups had the same quality and color of feathers. It was observed however; in the finisher periods the control group had pale-looking feathers while the Aloe Vera group had a golden yellow color. The differences on immune system are presented in Table 4. During the starter period, there was no significant difference between the two groups. However, the stronger immune system was observed in the Aloe Vera group in the grower and finisher periods compared to the control group, which showed minor cases of skin lesions in the body. Table 1 (Weight) Starter Grower Finisher Total Experiment Period Aloe group 100 g 148.3 g 175 g 200 g Control group 100 g 145 g 170.5 g 160 g Table 2 (Growth) Starter Grower Finisher Total Experiment Period Aloe group 8 cm 12 cm 15 cm 18 cm Control group 8 cm 10.5 cm 13 cm 16 cm Table 3 (feathers) Starter Grower Finisher Total Experiment Period Aloe group Yellowish, Dry and fluffy Feathers are clean and yellowish, covers the entire body Yellowish, fluffy feathers Golden-yellow, healthy feathers Control group Yellowish, Dry and fluffy Signs of bald patches Visible bald patches Pale yellow, with bald patches Table 4 (Immune System) Starter Grower Finisher Total Experiment Period Aloe group Healthy No diseases Little skin lesions Healthy Control group Healthy Skin lesions begin to appear Skin lesions have spread Lack of nourishment CHAPTER V Summary, Conclusion and Recommendation Summary The study is entitled â€Å"Aloe Vera as Chick Growth Enhancer†. It focused on making a low priced but high quality growth enhancer in broiler chicks. It was conducted for the main purpose of evaluating and comparing the quality of Aloe Vera as a growth enhancer in terms of body weight gain, growth, feathers, and immune system. A total of twenty-one (21) day old straight run broiler chicks were used in the study and were distributed to a cage with a dimension of (57 x 33). The cage was further subdivided into two (2) cages for the different treatments with two (2) birds per cage. 3 days prior to the arrival of the chicks the cages were prepared thoroughly and provided with electric bulb as heaters up to 3 weeks 21 days of age and until their feathers were fully developed. Fresh leaves of Aloe Vera were then extracted, 5ml per liter of water. Feeding troughs containing chick pellets and waterers were provided for each cage. The set up was composed of experimental and control group. The experimental group was being provided with water containing the Aloe Vera gel. On the other hand, the control group was being provided with only pure water. The observations in weight, growth, feathers and immune system was made weekly by the researchers. . A digital weighing scale was used to measure the weight while a tape measure was used to determine the growth. The chicks were observed as starters (4-10 days), growers (10-15 days), and finishers (15-21) days. The results obtained regarding performance of the broilers showed that Aloe Vera gel groups brought about higher body weight  gain, growth, quality of feathers and immune system compared to the control group. The differences were then illustrated in a table. From the investigation, the researchers would like to recommend this study to the people of the poultry business who would pursue the Aloe Vera as Chick Growth Enhancer to improve the performance of broiler chicks. Also, further research should be made especially on the right amounts of Aloe Vera in water to achieve a better mixture and produce a better product. Conclusion Finally, it can be concluded that the group treated by Aloe Vera gel showed better performance compared to the control group. Furthermore, among the two groups, the Aloe Vera group experienced higher level of body weight gain, growth, quality of feathers, and immune system. Recommendation From the investigation, the researchers would like to recommend this study to the people of the poultry business who would pursue the Aloe Vera as Chick Growth Enhancer to improve the performance of broiler chicks. Also, further research should be made especially on the right amounts of Aloe Vera in water to achieve a better mixture and produce a better product. BIBLIOGRAPHY Bejar, Feliciano R.; Colapo, Remedies P. (2005) Growth Performance and Sensory Evaluation of Broilers Supplemented with Aloe Vera ( Aloe barbadensis miller) Extract in Drinking Water. Boudreau, M.D., Beland, F. A., 2006. An evaluation of the biological and toxicological properties of Aloe barbadensis (miller), Aloe vera. J. Environ. Sci. Heal. C 24:103-154. Cowan, M.M., 1999. Plant products as antimicrobial agents. Clin. Microbiol. Rev. 12: 564-582. Darabighane, Babak (2011) Effects of different levels of Aloe vera gel as an alternative to antibiotic on performance and ileum morphology in broilers. Italian Journal of Animal Science. Licensee PAGEPress, Italy Vol 10, No 3 [eISSN 1828-051X] Dela Cruz, Rita T. (2006) Extracts from Aloe: Not Only a natural Healer also a Poultry Growth Enhancer. BAR Digest. Vol. 8 No. 2. Hammer, K.A., Carson, C.F., Riley, T.V., 1999. Antimicrobial activity of essential oils and other plants extracts. J. Appl. Microbiol. 86:985-990. Ehrlich, Steven D. (201 3) Aloe Medical Reference Guide. University of Maryland Medical System. MD 21201 Lorenzo, Elias (unknown) Aloe Vera Found Beneficial to Poultry. Davao Agri Biz. Mitsch, P. (2004). The effect of two different blends of essential oil components on the proliferation of Clostridium perfringens in the intestines of broiler chickens. Poultry Sci. 83:669-675. Montagne, L. (2003) A review of interactions between dietary ï ¬ bre and the intestinalmucosa, and their consequences on digestive health in young non-ruminant animals. Anim. Feed Sci. Tech. 108:95-117. Olupona, J.A. Effect of Aloe Vera Juice Application Through Drinking Water on Performance pp 42-43 in Proc. Reynolds, T., Dweck, A.C., (1999). Aloe vera leaf gel: a review update. J. Ethnopharmacol. 68:3-37.

Night World : The Chosen Chapter 7

By the time Rashel intercepted the girl, the truck was already braking to turn around. Someone was shouting, â€Å"She's out! We lost one!† â€Å"This way!† Rashel said, reaching toward the girl with one hand and gesturing with the other. Up close, she could see that the girl was small, with disheveled blond hair falling over her forehead. Her chest was heaving. Instead of looking grateful, she seemed terrified by Rashel's arrival. She stared at Rashel a moment, then she tried to dart away. Rashel snagged her in midlunge. ‘Tm your friend! Come on! We've got to go between streets, where the truck can't follow us.† The truck was finishing its turn. Headlights swept toward them. Rashel looped an arm around the girl's waist and took off at a dead run. The blond girl was carried along. She whimpered but she ran, too. Rashel was heading for the area between two of the warehouses. She knew that if there really were vampires in that truck, her only chance was to get herself and the blond girl to her car. The vampires could run much faster than any human. She'd picked these two warehouses because the chain-link fence behind them wasn't too high and had no barbed wire at the top. As they reached it, Rashel gave the girl a little shove. â€Å"Climb!† â€Å"I can't!† The girl was trembling and gasping. Rashel looked her over and realized that it was probably the literal truth. The girl didn't look as if she'd ever climbed anything in her life. She was wearing what seemed to be party clothes and high heels. Rashel saw the truck's headlights in the street and heard the engine slowing. â€Å"You have to!† she said. â€Å"Unless you want to go back with them.† She interlocked her fingers, making a step with her hands. â€Å"Here! Put your foot here and then just try to grab on when I bounce you up.† The girl looked too scared not to try. She put her foot in Rashel's hand-just as the headlights switched off. It was what Rashel had expected. The darkness was an advantage to the vampires; they could see much better in it than humans. They were going to follow on foot. Rashel took a breath, then heaved upward explosively as she exhaled. The blond girl went sailing toward the top of the fence with a shriek. A bare instant later, Rashel launched herself at the top of the fence, grabbed it, and swung her legs over. She dropped to the ground almost noiselessly and held her arms up to the blond girl. ‘Let go! I'll catch you.† The girl, who was clambering awkwardly over the top, looked over her shoulder. â€Å"I can't-â€Å" â€Å"Do it!† The girl dropped. Rashel broke her fall, set her on her feet, and grabbed her arm above the elbow. â€Å"Come on!† As they ran, Rashel scanned the buildings around them. She needed a corner, someplace where she could get the girl behind her and safe. She could defend a corner-if there weren't more than two or three vampires. â€Å"How many of them are there?† she asked the girl. â€Å"Huh?† The girl was gasping. â€Å"How-many-are-there?† â€Å"I don't know, and I can't run anymore!† The girl staggered to a halt and bent double, hands on her knees, trying to get her breath back. â€Å"My legs†¦ are just like jelly.† It was no use, Rashel realized in dismay. She couldn't expect this bit of blond fluff to out-sprint a vampire. But if they stopped here in the open, they were dead. She cast a desperate look around. Then she saw it. A Bostonian tradition-an abandoned car. In this city, if you got tired of your car you just junked it on the nearest embankment. Rashel blessed the unknown benefactor who'd left this one. Now, if only they could get in†¦. â€Å"This way!† She didn't wait for the girl to protest, but grabbed her and dragged her. â€Å"Come on, you can do it! Make it to that car and you don't have to run anymore.† The words seemed to inspire the girl into a last effort. They reached the car and Rashel saw that one of the back windows was broken out cleanly. â€Å"In!† The girl was small-boned and went through the window easily. Rashel dove after her. Then she shoved her down into the leg space in front of the seat and hissed, â€Å"Don't make a sound.† She lay tensely, listening. She barely had time to breathe twice before she heard footsteps. Soft footsteps, stealthy as a prowling tiger's. Vampire footsteps. Rashel held her breath and waited. Closer, closer†¦ Rashel could feel the other girl shaking. She watched the dark ceiling of the car and tried to plan a defense if they were caught. The footsteps were right outside now. She heard the grate of glass not ten feet from the car door. Just please don't let them have a werewolf with them, she thought. Vampires might see and hear better than humans, but a werewolf could sniff its prey out. It couldn't possibly miss the smell of humans in the car. Outside, the footsteps paused, and Rashel's heart sank. Eyes open, she silently put her hand on her sword. And then she heard the footsteps moving quickly-away. She listened as they faded, keeping utterly still. Then she kept still some more, while she counted to two hundred. Then, very carefully, she sat up and looked around. No sight or sound of vampires. â€Å"Can I please get up now?† came a small whimpering voice from the floor. â€Å"If you keep quiet,† Rashel whispered. â€Å"They still may be somewhere nearby. We're going to have to get to my car without them catching us.† â€Å"Anything, as long as I don't have to run,† the girl said plaintively, emerging from the floor more disheveled than ever. â€Å"Have you ever tried to run in four-inch heels?† â€Å"I never wear heels,† Rashel murmured, scanning up and down the street. â€Å"Okay, I'll get out first, then you come through.† She slid out the window feet-first. The girl stuck her head through. â€Å"Don't you ever use doors?† â€Å"Sh. Come on,† Rashel whispered. She led the way through the dark streets, moving from shadow to shadow. At least the girl could walk softly, she thought. And she had a sense of humor even in danger. That was rare. Rashel drew a breath of relief when they reached the narrow twisting alley where her Saturn was parked. They weren't safe yet, though. She wanted to get the blond girl out of Mission Hill. â€Å"Where do you live?† she said, as she started the engine. When there was no answer, she turned. The girl was staring at her with open uneasiness. â€Å"Uh, how come you're dressed like that? And who are you, anyway? I mean, I'm glad you saved me-but I don't understand anything.† Rashel hesitated. She needed information from this girl, and that was going to take time-and trust. With sudden decision she unwound her scarf, one-handed, until her face was exposed. â€Å"Like I said, I'm a friend. But first just tell me: do you know what kind of people had you in that truck?† The girl turned away. She was already shivering with cold; now she shivered harder. â€Å"They weren't people. They were†¦ ugh.† â€Å"Then you do know. Well, I'm one of the people that hunts down that kind of people.† The girl looked from Rashel's face to the sheathed sword that rested between them. Her jaw dropped. â€Å"Oh, my God! You're Buffy the Vampire Slayer!† â€Å"Huh? Oh.† Rashel had missed the movie. â€Å"Right. Actually, you can call me Rashel. And you're†¦ ?† â€Å"Daphne Childs. And I live in Somerville, but I don't want to go home.† â€Å"Well, that's fine, because I want to talk to you. Let's find a Dunkin' Donuts.† Rashel found one outside of Boston, a safe one she knew had no Night World connections. She pulled a coat on over her black ninja outfit and lent Daphne a spare sweater from the trunk of her car. Then they went inside and ordered jelly sticks and hot chocolate. â€Å"Now,† Rashel said. â€Å"Tell me what happened. How did you end up in that truck?† Daphne cupped her hands around her hot chocolate. â€Å"It was all so horrible†¦Ã¢â‚¬  â€Å"I know.† Rashel tried to make her voice soothing. She hadn't had much practice at it. â€Å"Try to tell me anyway. Start at the beginning.† â€Å"Okay, well, it started at the Crypt.† â€Å"Uh, as in ‘Tales from the†¦'? Or as in the Old Burial Ground?† â€Å"As in the club on Prentiss Street. It's this underground club, and I mean really underground. I mean, nobody seems to know about it except the people who go there, and they're all our age. Sixteen or seventeen. I never see any adults, not even DJs.† â€Å"Go on.† Rashel was listening intently. The Night People had clubs, usually carefully hidden from humans. Could Daphne have wandered into one? â€Å"Well. It's extremely and seriously cool-or at least that's what I thought. They have some amazing music. I mean, it's beyond doom, it's beyond goth, it's sort of like void rock. Just listening to it makes you go all weird and bodiless. And the whole place is decorated like this post-apocalypse wasteland. Or maybe like the underworld†¦.† Daphne stared off into the distance. Her eyes, a very deep cornflower blue under heavy lashes, looked wistful and almost hypnotized. Rashel poked her and chocolate slopped onto the table. â€Å"Reminisce about it later. What kind of people were in the club? Vampires?† â€Å"Oh, no.† Daphne looked shocked. â€Å"Just regular kids. I know some from my school. And there's lots of runaways, I guess. Street kids, you know.† Rashel blinked. â€Å"Runaways†¦Ã¢â‚¬  â€Å"Yeah. They're mostly very cool, except the ones who do drugs. Those are spooky.† An illegal club full of runaway kids, some of whom would probably do anything for drugs. Rashel could feel her skin tingling. I think I've stumbled onto something big. â€Å"Anyway,† Daphne was going on, â€Å"I'd been going there for about three weeks, you know, whenever I could get away from home-â€Å" â€Å"You didn't tell your parents about it,† Rashel guessed flatly. â€Å"Are you joking? It's not a place you tell parents about. Anyway, my family doesn't care where I go. I've got four sisters and two brothers and my mom and my step-dad are getting divorced†¦ they don't even notice when I'm gone.† â€Å"Go on,† Rashel said grimly. â€Å"Well, there was this guy.† Daphne's cornflower eyes looked wistful again. â€Å"This guy who was really gorgeous, and really mysterious, and really just-just different from anybody I ever met. And I thought he was maybe interested in me, because I saw him looking at me once or twice, so I sort of joined the girls who were always hanging around him. We used to talk about weird things.† â€Å"Like?† â€Å"Oh, like surrendering yourself to the darkness and stuff. It was like the music, you know-we were all really into death. Like what would be the most horrible way to die, what would be the most awful torture you could live through, what you look like when you're in your grave. Stuff like that.† â€Å"For God's sake, why?† Rashel couldn't disguise her revulsion. â€Å"I don't know.† All at once, Daphne looked small and sad. â€Å"I guess because most of us felt life was pretty rotten. So you kind of face things, you know, to try to get used to them. You probably don't understand,† she added, grimacing. Rashel did understand. With a sudden shock, she understood completely. These kids were scared and depressed and worried about the future. They had to do something to deaden the pain†¦ even if that meant embracing pain. They escaped one darkness by going into another. And am I any different? I mean, this obsession I've got with vampires†¦ it's not exactly what you'd call normal and healthy. I spend my whole life dealing with death. â€Å"I'm sorry,† she said, and her voice came out more gentle than when she'd been trying to soothe Daphne before. Awkwardly, she patted the other girl's arm once. â€Å"I shouldn't have yelled. And I do understand, actually. Please go on.† â€Å"Well.† Daphne still looked defensive. â€Å"Some of the girls would write poetry about dying†¦ and some of them would prick themselves with pins and lick the blood off. They said they were vampires, you know. Just pretending.† She glanced warily at Rashel. Rashel simply nodded. â€Å"And so I talked the same way, and did the same stuff. And this guy Quinn just seemed to love it-hey, look out!† Daphne jerked back to avoid a wave of hot chocolate. Rashel's sudden movement had knocked her cup over. Oh, God, what is wrong with me? Rashel thought. She said, â€Å"Sorry,† through her teeth, grabbing for a wad of napkins. She should have been expecting it. She had been expecting it; she knew that Quinn must be involved in this. But somehow the mention of his name had knocked the props from under her. She hadn't been able to control her reaction. â€Å"So,† she said, still through her teeth, â€Å"the gorgeous mysterious guy was named Quinn.† â€Å"Yeah.† Daphne wiped chocolate off her arm. â€Å"And I was starting to think he really liked me. He told me to come to the club last Sunday and to meet him alone in the parking lot.† â€Å"And you did.† Oh, I am going to kill him so dead, Rashel thought. â€Å"Sure. I dressed up†¦Ã¢â‚¬  Daphne looked down at her bedraggled outfit. â€Å"Well, this did look terrific once. So I met him and we went to his car. And then he told me that he'd chosen me. I was so happy I almost fainted. I thought he meant for his girlfriend. And then†¦Ã¢â‚¬  Daphne trailed off again. For the first time since she'd begun the story, she looked frightened. â€Å"Then he asked me if I really wanted to surrender to the darkness. He made it sound so romantic.† â€Å"I bet,† Rashel said. She rested her head on her hand. She could see it all now, and it was the perfect scam. Quinn checked the girls out, discovered which would be missed and which wouldn't. He kidnapped them from the parking lot so that no one saw them, no one even connected them with the Crypt. Who would notice or care that certain girls stopped showing up? Girls would always be coming and going. And there had been nothing in the newspaper because the daylight world didn't realize that girls were being taken. There probably wasn't even a struggle during the abduction, because these girls were willing to go-in the beginning. â€Å"It must have been a shock,† Rashel said dryly, â€Å"to find out that there really was a darkness to surrender to.† â€Å"Uh, yeah. Yeah, it was. But I didn't actually find that out then. I just said, sure, I wanted to. I mean, I'd have said the same thing if he asked me did I really want to watch Lawrence Welk reruns with him. He was that gorgeous. And he was looking at me in this totally soulful way, and I thought he was going to kiss me. And then†¦ I fell asleep.† Daphne frowned at her paper cup. â€Å"No, you didn't.† â€Å"I did. I know it sounds crazy, but I fell asleep and when I woke up I was in this place, this little office in this warehouse. And I was on this iron cot with this pathetic lumpy mattress, and I was chained down. I had chains on my ankles, just like people in jail. And Quinn was gone, and there were two other girls chained to other cots.† Without warning, Daphne began to cry. Rashel handed her a napkin, feeling uncomfortable. â€Å"Were the girls from the Crypt, too?† Daphne sniffed. â€Å"I don't know. They might have been. But they wouldn't talk to me. They were, like, in a trance. They just lay there and stared at the ceiling.† â€Å"But you weren't in a trance,† Rashel said thoughtfully. â€Å"Somehow you woke up from the mind control. You must be resistant like me.† â€Å"I don't know anything about mind control. But I was so scared I pretended to be like the other girls when this guy came to bring us food and take us to the bathroom. I just stared straight ahead like them. I thought maybe that way I would get a chance to escape.† â€Å"Smart girl,† Rashel said. â€Å"And the guy-was it Quinn?† â€Å"No. I never saw Quinn again. It was this blond guy named Ivan from the club; I called him Ivan the Terrible. And there was a girl who brought us food sometimes-I don't know her name, but I used to see her at the club, too. They were like Quinn; they each had their own little group, you know.† At least two others besides Quinn, Rashel thought. Probably more. â€Å"They didn't hurt us or anything, and the office was heated, and the food was okay-but I was so scared,† Daphne said. â€Å"I didn't understand what was going on at all. I didn't know where Quinn was, or how I'd gotten there, or what they were going to do with us.† She swallowed. Rashel didn't understand that last either. What were the vampires doing with the girls in the warehouse? Obviously not killing them out of hand. â€Å"And then last night†¦Ã¢â‚¬  Daphne's voice wobbled and she stopped to breathe. â€Å"Last night Ivan brought this new girl in. He carried her in and put her on a cot. And†¦ and†¦ then he bit her. He bit her on the neck. But it wasn't a game.† The cornflower-blue eyes stared into the distance, wide with remembered horror. â€Å"He really bit her. And blood came out and he drank it. And when he lifted his head up I saw his teeth.† She started to hyperventilate. â€Å"It's okay. You're safe now,† Rashel said. â€Å"I didn't know! I didn't know those things were real! I thought it was all just†¦Ã¢â‚¬  Daphne shook her head. â€Å"I didn't know,† she said softly. â€Å"Okay. I know it's a big shock. But you've been dealing with it really well. You managed to get away from the truck, didn't you? Tell me about the truck.† â€Å"Well-that was tonight. I could tell day from night by looking at this little window high up. Ivan and the girl came and took the chains off us and made us all get in the truck. And then I was really scared-I didn't know where they were taking us, but I heard something about a boat. And I knew wherever it was, I didn't want to go.† â€Å"I think you're right about that.† Daphne took another breath. â€Å"So I watched the way Ivan shut the door of the truck. He was in back with us. And when he was looking the other way, I sort of jumped at the door and got it open. And then I just fell out. And then I ran-I didn't know which way to go, but I knew I had to get away from them. And then I saw you. And†¦ I guess you saved my life.† She considered. â€Å"Uh, I don't know if I remembered to say thank you.† Rashel made a gesture of dismissal. â€Å"No problem. You saved yourself, really.† She frowned, staring at a drop of chocolate on the plastic table without seeing it. â€Å"Well. I am grateful. Whatever they were going to do to me, I think it must have been pretty awful.† A pause, then she said, â€Å"Uh, Rashel? Do you know what they were going to do to me?† â€Å"Hm? Oh.† Rashel nodded slowly, looking up from the table. â€Å"Yes, I think so.†