Wednesday, May 6, 2020

Uniforms Should Not Wear School Uniforms - 1751 Words

During every school year, the issue on if school officials should or should not entail students to wear uniforms in school is a constant debate among the parents and staff members in school districts. Just like any other controversial issues, there are two sides to the argument representing both the good and bad points that exist behind student being required to wear uniforms in school. Although it can take students time to adjust to transitioning into the policy of being required to wear uniforms in school when it is first enforced, the benefits that come from them makes it all worth the hassle. Individuals against the idea of students being required to wear uniforms in school, often fail to see the bigger picture at hand. Uniforms help with removing negative situations in schools, along with helping parents save time and money. For over a decade now school districts in the United States have enforced dress codes on students, that has led up to students being required to wear uniforms in school. It all started in the 1950’s when girls were not allowed to wear pants in school, leaving them to only be allowed to wear skirts or dresses (McVeigh, pg.85). The 1950’s was not the only period in history leading up to the beginning of school uniforms. In 1960’s it was unacceptable for the boy to wear blue jeans, black leather jackets, and other accessories associated with gangs in school (McVeigh, pg.85). It wasn’t until the late 1980’s that dress code policy really began to spread,Show MoreRelatedShould School Uniforms For Wear Uniforms?969 Words   |  4 PagesUnison Should students be required to wear uniforms? In today’s society this is a very controversial subject across America. Many object uniforms because they feel uniforms don t allow students to have the freedom to express themselves the way they want. People feel uniforms undermine children s individuality. However, taking into consideration facts from both sides, what remains most important is the child s academics. To improve academics, schools should require all students to wear a uniformRead MoreSchool Uniforms Should Not Wear Uniforms748 Words   |  3 Pages Should schools make students wear uniforms? In California, many schools are trying to decide what is best for their schools. In Adelanto, there could be reasons for schools to consider uniforms. At Columbia Middle School, this could be a controversial topic. Students should consider the pros and cons to wearing uniforms before forming an opinion. There are some pros to wearing uniforms that other people may not see. One pro is that families save money. There are some special programs to helpRead MoreShould Kids At Middle School Students Wear Uniform?1462 Words   |  6 PagesShould Kids in Middle School Students Wear Uniform? In the best interest for students, I strongly believe that our children in Middle school should wear uniforms. Uniforms are an easy way to distinguish who your children are. Parents spend more money on school clothes for their kids to look nice each year. It is not easy being a parent of a child that worries so much about what people think of them. There would be no possible way for kids to get bullied by what they are wearing because everyoneRead MoreEssay on Students Should be Required to Wear Uniforms to School774 Words   |  4 PagesStudents Should be Required to Wear Uniforms to School   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Do you always ask yourself why do students wear those horrible uniforms? Well, 99% of the students do, some find that unnecessary, some find them obsolete, and others just hate those unexciting colors. Nonetheless, they are wrong when they think that uniforms are not necessary, since they are. Because the teachers need to see students as equal, plus, clothes always distract other people, and as proved on a survey, 78%Read MoreEssay on Three Reasons Why Public Schools Should Wear Uniforms664 Words   |  3 Pageshere, in the USA few public schools have need of students to wear a uniform. I went to school in Mexico City and I got to wear uniform every day. It is very common there for students to be dress in uniforms. Most of the time, I think kids in this country are very spoiled and very selfish too. For them to wear an uniform to go to school it is very offensive. The reason is they think they can no longer express themselves. I agree that asking students to wear a uniform won’t change their attitudeRead MoreThe Importance Of School Uniforms In Schools1693 Words   |  7 Pagesprivate and public schools around America have a uniform policy. The idea of bringing uniforms to schools is an issue that has been discussed and argued about for many years. There are very few students who believe that uniforms shou ld be required, and other students just dislike the colors that come with them. Although uniforms have been known to make students look decent, there are many negative side effects that come with them. Some people think that a student wearing a uniform looks well and respectableRead MoreSchool Uniform Persuasive Essay by Javairia Haq764 Words   |  4 PagesSchool Uniform Persuasive Essay At a school, a child wearing a stained ragged-patched up sweat shirt and old tired pants full of disgusting mud stains, she goes to her locker quietly, suddenly after getting out her books, five older students surround her. The oblivious teachers and distracted staff don’t even bother noticing older pupils ridiculing the young girl’s outfit, teasing and tormenting the juvenile girl about her revolting clothes till she criesRead MoreEssay On School Uniforms1388 Words   |  6 Pagesfor Success Many schools have decided that having school uniforms is the best for their students. Other schools don’t want to limit the student’s freedom of speech. Schools can’t decide which is the best - have uniforms or not. School uniforms should be mandatory for all students considering the cost, right to freedom and academic success. One reason why school uniforms should be mandatory is the cost. It is more economical for people because it will be cheaper to buy uniforms rather than to haveRead MoreShould School Uniforms Be Banned?983 Words   |  4 PagesShould Students Wear Uniforms One of the biggest debates is about the effectiveness or the use of uniforms in public schools. Should students in public schools have to wear school uniforms? For the past few years now; parents, students and schools have had a clash over the issue surrounding the school attire. Researchers are divided over the impact that wearing school uniforms have on the students, if any, and how it does affect their learning. Some view school uniforms as unfair while others viewRead MoreStudents Should Be Required to Wear Uniforms801 Words   |  4 Pages 2013 All Students Should Be Required To Wear Uniforms Dress code has always been a problem in schools because students often times don’t adhere to the rules on what they can and cannot wear to school. While clothing is a minor issue when it comes to education; wearing uniforms does seem to improve an educational environment. Are school uniforms good or bad? There are many reasons why students should be required to wear uniforms. Students should be required to wear uniforms because it creates an

What is Corporate Responsibility Essay - 2045 Words

What is CSR? CSR or Corporate Social Responsibility indicates the actions or conducts that have strategic importance to companies. CSR has been defined as a company’s efforts or obligations in reducing and getting rid of any detrimental effects on the community and maximizing long-term beneficial effects to the company and community in which it operates (Mohr et al, 2001, cited Trendafilova et al, 2013). CSR usually starts with the general emphasis that businesses are not only responsible to generate economic returns for shareholders, but are also responsible to the environment and to other stakeholders. This is usually known as the â€Å"triple bottom line† – the company’s returns for investors, the environment and stakeholders (Markley,†¦show more content†¦This is the direct outcome of pride in the company’s practices and products (Hohnen and Potts, 2007). Also, staffs who perceive their company to be socially responsible will be more co mmitted to the company and out-perform those staffs who perceive a huge deal of irresponsibility. Besides, the company’s performance is likely to improve because employees see a socially responsible organization as a just organization and return this fairness through dedication and loyalty (Gross, 2011). Another advantage of doing CSR to companies is increased sales and market share. Consumers prefer to be associated with a firm that is ethical and has a positive image or in other words, does CSR. Various companies have become innovative and started to contribute a fair portion of their sales to certain cause. This has 2 fold advantages that is, it boost the brand image and helps in product differentiation and thus increases its sales (Soulace.in, 2014). Nevertheless, there are also undeniably, limitations of doing CSR. One of the limitations of doing CSR is that doing CSR does not necessarily pay or in other words the money companies put into doing CSR may not necessarily bring about calculable financial results. One of the reasons why CSR does not necessarily pay is because only some consumers know or care about the environmental or social records of firms. Practically all goods and services continue to be purchased by consumers onShow MoreRelatedWhat is Corporate Social Responsibility?5030 Words   |  21 PagesWHAT IS CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY? Corporate Social Responsibility has been evidently growing with Liberalization, Privatization and Globalization. As said by William Jr. Ford, Chairman, Ford Motor Co. A good company delivers excellent products and services, and a great company does all that and strives to make the world a better place, therefore booking profits for yourself in such a manner that is socially, environmentally and ethically acceptable thereby leading to an overall positiveRead MoreWhat is Corporate Social Responsibility?2032 Words   |  8 PagesWhat is CSR? CSR or Corporate Social Responsibility indicates the actions or conducts that are strategically important to businesses. CSR can also be defined as a firm’s efforts or obligations in reducing and getting rid of any detrimental effects on the community and maximizing beneficial effects to the company and community in which it operates in the long run (Mohr et al, 2001, cited Trendafilova et al, 2013). CSR usually starts with the common emphas is that firms are not only responsible to generateRead MoreWhat Is Corporate Social Responsibility?1778 Words   |  7 Pagesï » ¿Corporate Social Responsibility Corporate Social Responsibility is described in regards to the Japaneses Internet market, Yahoo Japan Corporation (the Company) along with its consolidated subsidiaries and affiliates (the Yahoo Japan Group) to involve a full commitment on their part to the realization of an Internet environment that is characterized by safety, security and harmonious with the expectations and needs of society. P38) I. Safety and Security Characteristics Ensuring safety andRead MoreWhat Does Corporate Responsibility Mean1518 Words   |  7 PagesWhat Does Corporate Social Responsibility Mean? Corporate initiative to assess and take responsibility for the company s effects on the environment and impact on social welfare. The term generally applies to company efforts that go beyond what may be required by regulators or environmental protection groups.  Ã‚   Corporate social responsibility may also be referred to as corporate citizenship and can involve incurring short-term costs that do not provide an immediate financial benefit to theRead MoreWhat ´s Corporate Social Responsibilities?579 Words   |  2 Pages1. Corporate Social Responsibilities (CSR) is about how companies make profits in an ethical way. Coca-Cola has adhered to this principle and had removed a chemical ingredient(brominated vegetable oil BVO) from its drink, a chemical associated with memory loss. BVO is banned in several other countries but allowed by FDA is US. Due to an online petition, thousands have pressured Coca-Cola to remove it. Coca-Cola listened and removed BVO. The stakeholders – consumers are cared for as Coca-ColaRead MoreWhat Is Moore s View Of Corporate Social Responsibility1563 Words   |  7 PagesWhat is Moore’s view of corporate social responsibility? After GM began to announce that the company will be closing it’s location in Flint, Michigan and will be moving down to Mexico the whole city of Flint began to deindustrialize. About half of Flint was left unemployed. Due to a lot of people losing jobs, primarily from the GM company, more and more people were being evicted from their houses and going on welfare. Because of the outsourcing it lead to Flint becoming deindustrialized. A lot ofRead MoreCorporate Social Responsibility: What Went Wrong at Glaxosmithkline?2532 Words   |  11 PagesCorporate Social Responsibility: What Went Wrong at GlaxoSmithKline? When London-based GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) paid a $750 million dollar settlement as part of a plea agreement that required it’s Cidra, Puerto Rico subsidiary SB Pharmco to plead guilty for knowingly selling contaminated medicine, it laid to rest any doubts that its business practices were in direct conflict with its commitment to both quality and to creating a strong ethical culture. There are, nevertheless, important issuesRead MoreTo What Extent Is Corporate Social Responsibility Beneficial to a Company’s Performance1245 Words   |  5 PagesTo what extent is Corporate Social Responsibility beneficial to a company’s performance Corporate Social Responsibility is a philosophy that relates to a business being a part of the society, so acts in a way that not only advances its own firm but also serves the society as well. Good ethics is the cornerstone of sustainable development. In the long run, unethical behavior may harm customers and the society as a whole. Furthermore, it damages a company’s image, efficiency and effectivenessRead MoreTo What Extent Does Corporate Social Responsibility Beneficial to a Company’s Performance?1187 Words   |  5 PagesTo what extent does Corporate Social Responsibility beneficial to a company’s performance? Hot debates were arose everywhere in the society about the extent of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). Mallen Baker (2004) states that CSR is about how companies manage the business processes to produce an overall positive impact on society. Supporters of CSR claim that Businesses and Corporations are not only about making money especially for big business. They should show social responsibility, moralRead MoreTo what Extent is Corporate Social Responsibility Beneficial to a Company’s Performance?1078 Words   |  5 PagesIn recent years, there have been a growing number of companies that have an explicit Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) plan. As stated by European Commission (2001), CSR is defined as â€Å"a concept whereby companies integrate social and environmental concerns in their business operations and in their interaction with their stakeholders on a voluntary basis.† It is believed that the motives for CSR are gradually converting from philanthropi c rationale to performance-driven orientation, but the question

Criminal Fraud Trials free essay sample

Describes compares complex cases in U.S., Australia United Kingdom. Trial length, role of jury, jury selection, defendants rights, judicial competence, investment fraud, organized crime, severance, reform. This paper will examine the problems of complex criminal trials in Australia, the United States, and the United Kingdom. The focus will be on serious fraud cases, which usually involve securities laws violations. There will also be some discussion of organized crime cases in the United States, since most of the controversies over complex criminal cases have arisen in the context of these cases. The first part of the paper will discuss these problems in general terms, noting the criticisms of how these trials are conducted and the efforts at reform. The second part of the paper will look at three actual trials, one each in Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States. Critics of the present criminal justice systems point to these three trials in particular as illustrative of the problems posed by complex

Methodology Accounting Theory and Current Issues †Click on Sample

Question: Discuss about the Methodology for Accounting Theory and Current Issues. Answer: Criticism of Positive Accounting Theory Accounting can be considered as a system of thought, which is developed to assist decision-making process and influence human behavior within a particular setting (Higson, 2003). There is a wide range of accounting theories or approaches among which the Positive Accounting Theory (PAT) has recently been emphasized in different accounting literatures. The theoretical approach was first highlighted by Ross Watts and Jerold Zimmerman in the year 1978 and 1979 respectively. Both of these articles have represented criticism based on three different dimensions of accounting theories such as problems in research methods, philosophy of science and a lack of economics-based accounting investigation (Setyorini Ishak, 2012). PAT has been portrayed as the demonstration of economic positivism. Drawing the scenario from the positive accounting research based on the economic perspective, it has been apparent that the positive accounting theory includes rhetoric as compared to methodology. This ind icates that the theory mainly concentrates on accounting practices rather than focusing on prescribing correct method. Based on the definition presented by Watts and Zimmerman, there is a lack of transparency on the actual objective of PAT. The initial objective of PAT is to predict accounting practices along with proper explanation in contrast to the normative accounting theories (Christenson, 1983). Positive accounting research can be defined as a specific mode of empirical research that has been designed to demonstrate financial practices of different companies. This research aims to develop a PAT, which can provide transparent future potential along with proper explanation on the accounting practices of organizations. In this regard, Watts and Zimmerman have outlined three fundamental hypotheses, which include bonus plan hypothesis, debt equity hypothesis and political hypothesis (Setyorini Ishak, 2012). All these hypotheses concentrate on different perspectives based on which the firms can implement accounting choices and can remain informed about the impact of accounting profit on the monopoly profits as well. Accounting theory usually underpins the enhancement of discipline within the firm by outlining human behavior and other aspects that have an impact on the firms growth. While implementing accounting theories or approaches within a firm, one of the major concerns is th at there is no universal theory that has addressed every subject or field. Thus, the firms have to adopt multiple theories as accounting theories with a precise focus on different subject matters (Gaffikin, 2006). A number of descriptions and classifications of the approaches have been adopted to construct accounting theories. While discussing the accounting theories the concentration mostly revolves around financial reporting and financial accounting (Kabir, 2010). One of the common differences between accounting and reporting is that initially firms engage in generating accounting data and with time they start to communicate the data with the outside reporting entities (Higson, 2003). Similarly, the financial accounting theories focus on relating the contents in the financial statement. While establishing accounting theories, the researchers or accounting theorists emphasize a particular shape to evaluate the world of organizations or managements, which reflect the theme of their investigation (Smith, 2014). In this regard, Higson (2003) defined the term theory as a transparent set of conceptual and hypothetical principle, which helps to form a basic frame of suggestions for a particular fie ld of the investigation. The theories therefore help to enhance understanding regarding the process of generating probable activities in the long-run (Higson, 2003). Based on the present discussion, it has therefore been apparent that PAT concentrates on representing a set of guidance to organizations, which will assist them to determine the suitability of the accounting method or reporting theories. However, concerning the organization requirements, it does not suggest appropriate methods or theories for further development or surviving in the competitive market. This factor can force to reduce the effectiveness of PAT as it cannot provide any suggestion to enhance company growth, which is the preliminary goal of every organization. Besides, organizations adopt accounting theories to stimulate their financial position so that they can gain competitive advantages in the market. PAT in this perspective cannot help the organization to provide expected outcome based on its current accounting practices. PAT is a group of academic research conducted to explain the accounting practices during the current scenario (Kabir, 2010). On the other hand, prior to the establishment of PAT the normative theories were mostly utilized by organizations, which generally emphasized long-term values of economic limitations, which cannot be validated through financial data. The normative theories focus on long period of time for which evaluating financial data and implementing objective will not provide expected outcomes as the theories involve prescribing correct approach (Kabir, 2005). PAT does not concentrate on prescribing correct approach rather it is concerned about evaluating external environment based on which actual decision can be implemented (Kabir, 2010). PAT considers certain factors within an organization that have an impact on its operations such as risk faced by auditors, legal liability and probable loss of clients among others. The theory therefore targets to provide proper explanation regarding the accounting practices through examination along with producing hypothesis (Lukka, 2010). Both of the methods are different based on their priorities as PAT continues to emphasize the dimension of testing whereas normative theories are comparatively less focus on testing. The utilization of PAT leads towards better understanding and prediction whereas normative theories limit standardizing of practices and training to adopt those practices (Kabir, 2005). With respect to these factors, it can be affirmed that the use of PAT will definitely provide better outcomes as compared to other theories. However, the method can be criticized based on the characterizations and current situations. The theory although has better understanding with regard to the accounting practices still it does not provide any clear perspective about the appropriate approaches to organizations (Setyorini Ishak, 2012). On the other hand, organizational development has become one of the most vital concerns in this contemporary business scenario due to high competition and frequent changes in clients preferences. In this perspective, accounting theories help the organizations to enhance their performance along with ensuring high financial capabilities (Smith, 2014). Organizational development further involves enhancing organizational behavior by changing work processes and techniques to control the workforce. Therefore, adopting an appropriate accounting theory will help a business entity to enhance its efficiency in the market. PAT does not provide any proper guidance to organizations about the correct process based on which it can be criticized in terms of adopting for organizational development in the current market context (Setyorini Ishak, 2012). Organizations nowadays need to evaluate the accounting practices to increase the efficiency of decision-making process. Therefore, based on the definition of Watts and Zimmerman, PAT has highlighted certain factors that were not considered for establishing previous accounting theories (Kabir, 2010). However, the major responsibility of these academic theories includes providing guidance to enhance organizational operations along with prescribing an appropriate system for development, which PAT does not include in its priority. Thus, it can be ascertained that PAT represents an abrogation in terms of performing responsibilities of academics as it must include a transparent guideline to the organization through financial accounting or reporting theories (Higson, 2003). References Christenson, C., 1983, The methodology of positive accounting, The Accounting Review, vol. 58, no. 1, pp. 1-22. Gaffikin, M., 2006, The critique of accounting theory, Faculty of Commerce-Accounting Finance Working Papers, pp. 1-21. Higson, A., 2003, Corporate Financial Reporting: Theory and Practice, Sage, Thousand Oaks. Kabir, H., 2005, Normative accounting theories, Islamic Azad University of Ahvaz, pp. 1-30. Kabir, H., 2010, Positive accounting theory and science, Journal of Centrum Cathedra, vol. 3, no. 2, pp. 136-149. Lukka, K., 2010, The roles and effects of paradigms in accounting research, Management Accounting Research, vol. 21, no. 2, pp. 110-115. Setyorini, C. T. Ishak, Z., 2012, Corporate social and environmental disclosure: A positive accounting theory view point, International Journal of Business and Social Science, vol. 3, no. 9, pp. 152-164. Smith, M., 2014, Research methods in accounting, Sage, Thousand Oaks.

Thursday, April 23, 2020

What was the prime motive in American intervention in Vietnam in the 1960s Essay Example

What was the prime motive in American intervention in Vietnam in the 1960s? Paper The U.S. involvement in Vietnam is a cause of embarrassment and regret to all those involved. When John F. Kennedy started the war the fear of communism via the ‘domino effect’ was the rationale given to public. But such fears were far from real and soon the general public got to understand the basic facts and motivations behind American intervention in Vietnam. State apologists like Joseph Alsop took issue draft resistors or conscientious objectors to the war in Vietnam. By a convoluted mal-use of logic, Alsop argued that resisting the draft is equivalent to supporting Soviet tyranny and totalitarianism. But in truth, the resistors were expressing solidarity with the victims of war – the hordes of Vietnamese citizens who lost their lives for no fault of theirs. Such dissident voices as that of boxing great Muhammad Ali made it clear that the war was illegitimate and unjust. Journalistic dispatches from Vietnam soon proved the bitter reality of conflict and forceful occupation. For example, reportage pieces like Michael Herr’s Hell Sucks showed the brutality and futility of war based on first-hand accounts of the events. Even American intellectuals who are quite removed from the war scene were able to articulate the irrationality and immorality of the Vietnam enterprise and called for its immediate cessation. Noam Chomksy and Howard Zinn are prominent dissidents, whose opinions gradually gathered greater acceptance as the war dragged on. We will write a custom essay sample on What was the prime motive in American intervention in Vietnam in the 1960s? specifically for you for only $16.38 $13.9/page Order now We will write a custom essay sample on What was the prime motive in American intervention in Vietnam in the 1960s? specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer We will write a custom essay sample on What was the prime motive in American intervention in Vietnam in the 1960s? specifically for you FOR ONLY $16.38 $13.9/page Hire Writer Hence, in conclusion, by the time Lyndon Johnson was nearing the end of his second term, the Vietnam War had become unviable both militarily (due to heavy costs) and domestically (due to public pressure). It is fair to say that the war did not end a day too soon. The U.S. involvement in Vietnam is a cause of embarrassment and regret to all those involved. When John F. Kennedy started the war the fear of communism via the ‘domino effect’ was the rationale given to public. But such fears were far from real and soon the general public got to understand the basic facts and motivations behind American intervention in Vietnam. State apologists like Joseph Alsop took issue draft resistors or conscientious objectors to the war in Vietnam. By a convoluted mal-use of logic, Alsop argued that resisting the draft is equivalent to supporting Soviet tyranny and totalitarianism. But in truth, the resistors were expressing solidarity with the victims of war – the hordes of Vietnamese citizens who lost their lives for no fault of theirs. Such dissident voices as that of boxing great Muhammad Ali made it clear that the war was illegitimate and unjust. Journalistic dispatches from Vietnam soon proved the bitter reality of conflict .

Tuesday, March 17, 2020

Research Paper on Breast Cancer

Research Paper on Breast Cancer According to the National Alliance of Breast Cancer Organizations (NABCO, 2002), breast cancer is the second most common form of cancer in women in the United States, falling only behind skin cancers. This is why it is such an important disease to understand. Throughout this paper there will be information about various issues which deal with breast cancer, in an attempt to give better insight to the disease. First there will be a brief discussion on the normal and altered physiology of the breast followed by the etiology and possible causative factors. Next there will be signs and symptoms which result from these alterations. Finally, the research paper will be ended with some complications and the prognosis of this disease. Although breast cancer occurs in both men and women the prevalence is low in men. Out of every 100 women who are diagnosed with breast cancer only one man is which is why this paper will concentrate on the disease process in women. (ACS) (American Cancer Society [ACS], 2002) Please refer to the illustration above for help in understanding the structure of a normal breast. The female breast is primarily made up of lobules, ducts, and stroma. Lobules are milk producing glands, ducts are the milk passages that connect the lobules to the nipple and stroma is fatty and connective tissue that surrounds the ducts, lobules, blood vessels and lymphatic vessels. Lymphatic vessels carry lymph, a clear fluid containing waste products and immune cells. There are also lymph nodes along the lymphatic vessels; these nodes are bean-shaped collections of immune cells. Most lymphatic vessels of the breast connect to axillary lymph nodes which can be found in the armpit. Other nodes, such as internal mammary nodes and supra/infraclavicular nodes can also be found inside the chest or above and below the collarbone. (ACS, 2002) According to NABCO cancer is a group of more than 100 different diseases and occurs when cells become abnormal and are without control or order. The cells then continue to divide if when new ones are not needed. During the change from a normal cell to a cancerous cell, however, the cells requires many different gene alterations. Eventually these altered genes form a tumor which may be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous). A benign tumor can damage local tissue but fortunately will not spread to other parts of the body. Malignant tumors on the other hand spread to other areas of the body damaging and destroying healthy tissue. (NABCO, 2002) A gene that is commonly found in breast cancer patients which have a high incidence of familial causes is the BRCA gene. Unfortunately inherited breast cancer only accounts for 10 % of the approximately 200,000 cases which are diagnosed each year. Molecular biologist, Masaaki Hamaguchi, of Cold Springs Harbor Laboratory has developed a theory that may give insight to the other 90% of breast cancer cases. While comparing healthy and cancerous cells of 200 women diagnosed with the disease his team noticed that a gene called DBC2 had been completely deleted in the cancerous cells of seven women. The team then looked at 56 more cancerous and 19 more healthy tissue samples for messenger RNA (mRNA). The mRNA showed up in all of the healthy cells while the mRNA was missing in 58% of the breast cancer tissue. This recent discovery may aid in the detection of the underlying causes of breast cancer. (Beckman, 2002) As stated earlier the gene which causes inherited breast cancer is better understood. BRCA is a tumor suppressor gene. This gene is normally programmed to slow down cell division or cause cells to die at the right time. In the case of breast cancer DNA mutations cause the BRCA gene to â€Å"turn off† allowing cancer cells to multiply. (ACS, 2002) There are believed to be many risk factors of this disease, unfortunately, the reasons for the many of the risks are often unclear. The most validated reason for breast cancer is estradiol exposure. For this reason, being a woman is the greatest risk factor of all. Women have many more breast cells which are constantly being exposed to growth hormones. White women are also higher risk than their black counterparts, though the reason for this is not known (Apantaku, 2000) (ACS, 2002) Due to estradiol, an early onset of menses or the late development of menopause puts a woman at greater risk because there are an increased number of menstrual cycles leading to extra estradiol production. For this same reason, women whose cycles are shorter than 25 days; women who have used conventional animal estrogens or synthetic hormone for more than five years; and those women who used birth control before their first pregnancy, before 20, or for more than five years before 35 double and possibly triple the risk for developing breast cancer. (Samet) Hereditary, dietary and lifestyle factors are also contributors to beast cancer risk. Women whose mothers had breast cancer are at twice the risk for developing this disease, generally the younger the mother is at the time of diagnosis the greater the risk. If a sister has breast cancer or a brother has prostate the risk can increase even more. Diets high in fat are also linked to this illness; because more fat cells produce more estrogen, high fats promote early onset of menstrual cycle, and there are hydrogenated fats from trans-fatty acids found in margarine which are considered cacogenic. Increased alcohol consumption also promotes increased estrogen levels. Lack of regular, physical exercise can also be a risk factor, because exercise directly decreases estradiol absorption and improves immune response. (Samet) Now that some of the risk factors are known, can breast cancer be prevented? While it is not possible to completely prevent the disease it is possible to reduce the risk with a hormone called Tamoxifen. Tamoxifen is an antiestrogen drug which is most often taken in pill form for approximately five years. This hormone is not only used as a preventive treatment for development of cancer in those people who have not had it , but it is also used to prevent a second episode of the disease and to prevent further tumor development during the actual disease process. After taking the hormone for five years 49% fewer women were found to  have breast cancer than women with the same risk factors who did not take the hormone. Unfortunately, this therapy does not come without side effects. The use of this drug increases the risk for developing uterine carcinoma, a rare and potentially serious condition. Other side effects include weight gain, mood swings, hot flashes, blood clots and cataracts. Because of these serious side effects it is important for a patient to weigh their options, but more often then not the benefits prevail. (ACS, 2002) Symptoms found with breast cancer are masses, pain, erythema, nipple drainage, and enlarged lymph nodes. The most common complaint which causes women to seek medical attention is a breast mass. Approximately 90% off all masses found are due to benign lesions. Masses that are smooth and rubbery are usually a result of fibroadenoma and occur in the 20s or 30s while cysts are what are commonly found in women in their 30’s and 40’s. The etiology for fibroadenoma is unknown, but the pathogenesis is a clonal stromal component. There is proliferation of both the ducts and the stroma, numerous fibroblasts of the stroma can be seen along with a pale eosinophilic cytoplasm. The typical duct epithelium often lines the glandular spaces which may lead to compression because of this fibrous proliferation. (National Breast Cancer Foundation [NBCF]), (Sanders) There are two types of breast pain, cyclic and non-cyclic. Cyclic pain is related to a woman’s cycle. Non-cyclic pain however, is often only experienced in certain area of the breast. This pain may sometimes be caused by injury or trauma to the breast such as after a breast biopsy. It is associated with both pre and post menopausal women and is most common in 40 to 50 year old. Although these pains often subside after a couple of years and are not usually associated with breast cancer the possibility still exists and therefore should be discussed with a physician. (Imaginis, 2001) Another symptom is erythema, an abnormal redness of the skin. There is dilation of the superficial capillaries of the skin which then leads to inflammation and redness. The tumor or cyst may cause this hypersensitive, inflammatory reaction, although it is not known for sure. Yet another symptom related to breast cancer can be nipple discharge. The majority of nipple discharges are associated with non-malignant changes and are often caused by hormonal changes. Discharge is a concern when it is bloody, sticky and clear, brown or black, is spontaneous, or unilateral. About 90% of bloody discharges are the cause of papilloma or infection; a papilloma is a non-cancerous tumor that has a branch or stalk which reaches into the breast duct. This tumor is also malignant almost 10% of the time occurring unilaterally, so further diagnostic testing should be preformed. (Imaginis, 2000) Finally, discussion of the last symptom of breast cancer is enlarged lymph nodes. The enlargement is due to the production of additional white blood cells which helps ward off infection. The infections that cause this inflammation are often benign, but can be caused by the presence of cancer cells. Unfortunately, the only way to find out whether the cause of the swelling is cancerous or non-cancerous is to perform a biopsy. However, some signs are more associated with being benign, such as, a node that is less than one centimeter in size, and is soft, rubbery and tender. (Imaginis, 2001) Lymph nodes are also the key factors in staging breast cancer and determining the prognosis of a patient. Stage one show a tumor which is less than 2 cm in size with no lymph node involvement or metastasis. In stage four the tumor size is not applicable, nor is lymph node involvement, but there is metastasis of other tissues. In stage one there is a 98% five year survival rate while in stage four there is only a 16% five year survival rate. For this reason it is important to perform self breast exams and receive yearly mammograms after the age of 40. The sooner the cancer is detected the quicker treatment can be started, and early treatment dramatically increases chances of survival. (NBCF, 2002) Complications of this disease of course include death, but also fatigue which is usually associated with the treatment of the disease. Death caused by rapidly metastasizing cancerous agent is nearly unavoidable in later stages of the disease which again is why early detection is so critical. Fatigue related to treatment, which is due to the loss of so many cells and important energy producing agents can be helped. A recent study showed that exercise during treatment dramatically improved the energy levels of the patients, both physically and mentally. (NBCF, 2002) As one may see from the above information of etiology, signs and symptoms, and potential complications of this disease, breast cancer is a serious disease that should not be taken lightly. In order to prevent complications, it is important for women to perform self exams, get regular mammograms, and maintain a healthy lifestyle, so that if the disease does occur there is optimal prognosis.

Sunday, March 1, 2020

Biography of Chilean President Michelle Bachelet

Biography of Chilean President Michelle Bachelet Known for:  First woman elected as president of Chile; first woman minister of defense in Chile and Latin America Dates:  Born September 29, 1951. Elected president of Chile, January 15, 2006; inauguration March 11, 2006, served until 11 March 2010 (term limited). Elected again in 2013, inauguration March 11, 2014. Occupation:  President of Chile; pediatrician You might also be interested in:  Margaret Thatcher,  Benazir Bhutto,  Isabel Allende About Michelle Bachelet On January 15, 2006, Michelle Bachelet became Chiles first woman president-elect. Bachelet came in first in the December 2005 election but did not manage to win a majority in that race, so she faced a runoff in January against her nearest opponent, a billionaire businessman, Sebastian Pinera. Earlier, she was a minister of defense in Chile, the first woman in Chile or all of Latin America to serve as a minister of defense. Bachelet, a Socialist, is generally considered a center-leftist. While three other women have won presidential elections in the Americas (Janet Jagan of Guyana, Mireya Moscoso of Panama, and Violeta Chamorro of Nicaragua), Bachelet was the first to win a seat without first becoming known through a husbands prominence. (Isabel Peron was her husbands vice-president in Argentina and became president after his death.) Her term in office ended in 2010 because of term limits; she was reelected in 2013 and began serving another term as president in 2014. Background Michelle Bachelet was born in Santiago, Chile, on September 29, 1951. Her fathers background is French; her paternal great-grandfather emigrated to Chile in 1860. Her mother had Greek and Spanish ancestry. Her father, Alberto Bachelet, was an air force brigadier general who died after being tortured for his opposition to Augusto Pinochets regime and support of Salvador Allende. Her mother, an archaeologist, was imprisoned in a torture center with Michelle in 1975 and went into exile with her. In her early years, before her fathers death, the family moved frequently and even lived in the United States briefly when her father worked for the Chilean Embassy. Education and Exile Michelle Bachelet studied medicine from 1970 to 1973 at the University of Chile in Santiago, but her education was interrupted by the military coup of 1973 when Salvador Allendes regime was overthrown. Her father died in custody in March of 1974 after being tortured. The familys funds were cut off.  Michelle Bachelet had worked secretly for the Socialist Youth and was imprisoned by the Pinochet regime in 1975 and held in the torture center at Villa Grimaldi, along with her mother.   From 1975-1979 Michelle Bachelet was in exile with her mother in Australia, where her brother had already moved, and East Germany, where she continued her education as a pediatrician.   Bachelet married  Jorge Dvalos while still in Germany, and they had a son, Sebastin. He, too, was a Chilean who had fled the Pinochet regime. In 1979, the family returned to Chile. Michelle Bachelet completed her medical degree at the University of Chile, graduating in 1982.  She had a daughter, Francisca, in 1984, then separated from her husband about 1986.  Chilean law made divorce difficult, so Bachelet was unable to marry the physician with whom she had her second daughter in 1990. Bachelet  later studied military strategy at Chiles National Academy of Strategy and Policy and at the Inter-American Defense College in the United States.   Government Service Michelle Bachelet became Chiles Minister of Health in 2000, serving under socialist President Ricarco Lagos. She then served as Minister of Defense under Lagos, the first woman in Chile or Latin America to hold such a post. Bachelet and Lagos are part of a four-party coalition, Concertacion de Partidos por la Democracia, in power since Chile restored democracy in 1990. Concertacion has focused on both economic growth and spreading the benefits of that growth throughout segments of society. After her first term as president, 2006 - 2010, Bachelet took a position as the Executive Director of UN Women (2010 - 2013).