Fools Ball Essays (505 words) - Ball Games, American Football

Fool's Ball Fool's Ball Many people enjoy watching or playing the game called football. However, there are many people that think football is just a waste of time and money. I, for instance, am one of those people. Whether it is just hometown high school football, College football or even NFL football I think that football is an awful representation of athletic ability. There are many cons including the physical effect that it has on the players, the amount of money that is spent on the players, and the message that it is sending to children. First of all, football is one of the most dangerous sports that is played in the United States whether it is the little leagues or the NFL. Players are tackled and thrown around in all different directions. Many players may get injured so badly that they have to quit playing football. They may injure the heads, spines, and in most cases their knees. To prove just how dangerous football is, there are ambulances that attend the game waiting or watching to see if someone gets hurt. In many instances a player has to be taken away by the ambulance. Why do the players put themselves through all of this physical trauma? Not only do the football players get injured during the games, they also get injured during practices. The situation is just as bad as if there were an actual game being played. Pulled muscles, torn ligaments, broken bones, and sometimes concussions. The possibilities are endless. There are numerous amounts of money that is spent on the players. Not necessarily in the little leagues, but the NFL for instance. The players are sometimes paid millions of dollars to be a football player. A lot of times college football players get scholarships for playing football at certain schools. This ignites a whole new debate about the football players ability to attend college and his grades. Many people believe that a lot of times the player does not even attend college half the time and is still passed. The money that is spent on the NFL players is insane. The millions of dollars that they make each year could definitely be going to a better cause than football. It seems like every time one turns on the television he hears of the wrongdoings of big time football players. The latest instance was that of Peter Warrick, a very important player, who plays for Florida State University. He stole five hundred dollars worth of merchandise at a department store for a much cheaper price. He was arrested. Odds point now to him joining the team again very soon. Is this right? Just because he is a very important football player should he be able to do this? This kind of thing happens very much in football land. It is sending kids the wrong message. It is telling them that it is o.k. to steal because you will get away with it. Kids look up to these football players as idols and they are getting the wrong messages. In conclusion, football is a wasteful sport. It is hard on the player, it costs a lot of money that could be spent on other more important Sports and Games

Change the Way you Persuade essays

Change the Way you Persuade essays In the article titled Change the way you persuade Mary Flood, the executive VP of sales and marketing has the task of convincing MaxPros CEO George Nolan to restructure her operations to become more customer oriented. MaxPro is a leading manufacture of office equipment. Her main goal is to form major account teams for the companys largest accounts (the article suggests clients with $50 million revenue). The biggest problem for Mary is to figure out how to sell her idea to Nolan, and to figure out which of the 5 types of decision making The article discusses five different types of personalities; charismatic, thinkers, skeptics, followers, and controllers. The first type, charismatics are the type of decision makers that work smoothly and operate business in leadership style manner. They are very personable with traits like, dominant, talkative, enthusiastic, captivating, and persistent. The way to approach a charismatic with a sales pitch is to stay low-key and not to join in on their excitement. Also, it is necessary to keep the proposal grounded and not to puff the idea, doing so will gain trust from Next, we come to the thinkers. They are the intelligent ones of the group, with traits of intelligence, being cerebral, and very logical. Bill Gates and Michael Dell are considered thinkers. Is it any wonder that they both own computer companies. The way to sell an idea to these types of people is to retrieve as much information as possible and present it in a comprehensive manner. These people are not easily persuaded and do not usually like taking risks. The best way to convince a thinker is to make them aware of the risks up front and tailor the rest of your presentation to show how the idea will steer away from those risks. After that we have the skeptics. These are by far the most difficult people to deal ...

Why the sale of human organs should be legalized Research Paper

Why the sale of human organs should be legalized - Research Paper Example While societal morals may not allow sales of the organs, the contemporary market promises a price for the organs just like any other commodity in the market. In the US, just like in many parts of the world, sale of organs is permitted. However, this can only be done when one passes away, but not the other way round. Studies show that the number of people on the queue to get life-saving organs (often the kidneys, eyes parts) have been growing steadily over the last two decades, whereas the number of potential organ donors has stayed constant (Woodcock 1-3). While in the US the black-market is experiencing an increase in the sales of body organs; blood donation, which is legal, is also on the increase (Kennedy 34). In fact, donation of blood attracts rewards such as free tickets to an event and free clothes, among other gifts. Opponents of selling organs also underscore the fact that if the free market is allowed, there would be a proliferation of vulnerable groups (such poor people) d ue to market imperfection. This paper supports the argument that the sale of human organs should be legalized. Although many people are waiting for organ transplantation in the US, the supply of organs is limited or even unavailable; hence legalization of selling organs would be importance as it would lead to saving of many lives. For instance, the number of patients in the US, who are waiting for an organ transplant, is bigger than the number of donors by almost four folds (The Voice of Russia 1). As a result, on a daily basis, nearly 18 people pass away as they wait for someone to donate them an organ (The Voice of Russia 1). Therefore, permitting the sale of organs will stimulate supply to meet the ever increasing demand. In the US, those who decide to become organ donors are supposed to have the word ‘organ donor’ marked on their licenses, but the donation is only possible after the eligible donor passes

The Updated Financial Development And Structure Database Research Paper

The Updated Financial Development And Structure Database - Research Paper Example The change of the technical platform resulted in back and forth arguments that put the marketplace into uncertainty (Fletcher, 2011). 11 In the month of October 2009, LSE indicated that they were planning to acquire a different trading platform called Turquoise Trading. The targeted trading facility enjoyed a stronger technical system, which was already renowned in the financial marketplace (Fletcher, 2011). Turquoise trading was operated on a stronger technological platform than the LSE. In the same period, LSE faced a technical challenge in the data management system, which led to a one-hour outage (Collett, 2004). Although one hour is such a short period, for investors in the financial markets it means lifetime. LSE also faced another challenge when a server software malfunction stopped trading activities in the same year. 11 The celebration that globalization and technological advancement have expanded the financial markets has received criticism because they have also presented the diverse crisis to the industry (Esqueda, Assef, and Mollick, 2012). Critics argue that much as they have enhanced efficiency, liquidity, and integrity they have been responsible for some unexplained disruptions in the marketplace. First, advancements in technology and globalization may lead to corruption of information through loss or theft. Secondly, whether intentional or intentional, the failure of technical frameworks and unchecked global interactions in the financial markets can present major setbacks. Given the evidence provided, it is clear that advancement in technology and subsequent globalization may have detrimental effects on the financial markets. 12 A strong financial environment promotes economic growth in any state. The financial market also plays a critical role in the economic environment since it enables major firms to obtain funds for facilitating investments.

MGMT ESSAY Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

MGMT - Essay Example However, being a younger executive, having only 3.5 years of experience in an industry, it is not necessary that seniors in other positions may hear my words properly. I have to use my expertise well to derive respect from others and to use my power effectively. Nobody can challenge me if I prove my credentials in front of other senior executives. Attraction is another source of personal power. Others will definitely notice my charisma, behaviour and physical characteristics before accepting me as their leader. Even though my experiences are less, I should convince my fellow employees that my experiences were in a senior position and I am capable of handling any situations. Once I succeeded in proving my abilities, it would be easier for me to command the respect of my fellow employees. Situational leadership is implemented in majority of the organizations at present and I should implement it in my organization also. I should create an impression that my leadership styles are neither autocratic, nor democratic in nature, but a mixture of the two. In other words, I should respond to the problems based on the situations. Employees will always try to imitate their leaders. In other words, if the managers are passive, employees will also try to follow the same path. On the other hand, if the managers are active, employees will also try to become active as much as possible. In other words, I should try to become an active leader. When the leader shows more vigilance in organizational matters, employees cannot become idle. They should realise that the leader is watching their every movement. Under such circumstances, they will be forced to concentrate more on their responsibilities. Legitimacy increases acceptance. In other words, I should take more care while taking any decisions in my organization. My fellow employees should feel that my decisions are legitimate and it will guide the organization towards prosperity. I should specifically remind my managers

Vesico Vaginal Fistula In Birnin Health And Social Care Essay

Vesico Vaginal Fistula In Birnin Health And Social Care Essay Approximately, about 7 million women were affected from complication of pregnancy and child birth worldwide. Out of the estimates, 6.5million women are from the developing countries. (WHO Global burden of disease 1998). According to the data from West African Journal of Medicine (WAJM 2004; 23 1) the prevalence of obstetric fistula in West Africa is around 1-3 per 1000 deliveries while, in other African region is 5-10 per 1000 deliveries. Report shows that, maternal morbidity and mortality is among the major problem for women in Nigeria. Maternal mortality ratio of 800 deaths per 100,000 live births which is also rated among the highest in the world. The report further stated that for each death that occurred 20 or more women will be affected by childbirth injuries and most of this is obstetric fistula (UNFPA/Nigeria 2005). Obstetric fistula is one of the maternal morbidities and mortality problem in Nigeria which is an issue of concern to Public Health (WAJM 2010; 29 (5); 293-298. The situation is being more evidence in the Northern part of the country, prevalence estimation ranges from as low as 400,000 to as much as 800,000 cases, 5% of these cases are from the Northern region. There could probably be an incidence of 20,000 new cases a year, with approximately 2,000-4,000 fistula repair surgeries being carried out yearly. Also Nigeria count for 40% of the worldwide fistula prevalence (Country assessment UNFPA/Nigeria 2009). Life expectancy of female population at birth is 52 yrs, with a total of 5.5 fertility rate (Unicef 2010). 1 Statistic report from (UNFPA /Nigeria 2005) stated that, majority of fistula patient visited the Health centers are below 20 years. Nigeria is facing a great challenges of Health care providers, with an estimated of 58-39% trained skilled attendance for Ante-Natal and delivery (Midwives) attached to the Health facilities (NDHS 2008). Efforts by the Government to provide them remain unsuccessful. In Nigeria, early marriages contribute 23% of the maternal death that are cause by severe hemorrhage, obstructed and prolong labor which may result to obstetric fistula and often time still birth. 69% of women in the rural areas face difficulties in accessing medical care that made them to have home deliveries by unskilled birth attendant. (Lindros and Lowkkainen 2004). Kebbi State with an estimated population of 3.8million out of it 836,000 are women of child bearing age is located in the North West part of Nigeria. It has a particularly low socio -economic indicators. Maternal mortality rates for the region are estimated at 1,000/100,000 live births (NDHS 2008) Total fertility rate is 8 which are above the national average. According to Leadership News paper 19 April 2012, stated that, kebbi state rank among the highest rate of maternal death in the country. Most of the direct causes of maternal death are hemorrhage, sepsis, eclamsia and anemia. While long and obstructed labor has been responsible for both maternal morbidity and mortality such as vesico-vaginal fistula. According to a survey, the state faces serious maternal challenges. Age at marriage in the state is 12-13 years and most of them became pregnant by 13-14 years. VVF victims can be found in all part of the state with prevalence rate of 5,000-8,000, Birnin Kebbi Local Government has the highest rate of 2,500 cases. (Khalid Zango 1996). Factors accounts for high morbidity in women in the state include social, cultural, economic accessibility and health facility associated problems. 2 Obstetric fistula is can be treated but, poverty, ignorance and lack of information are the most contributing factor for women to seek for medical attention. These high prevalence shows negligence for the government to address the situation. This study actually is going to look in to the Knowledge about the vesico vaginal fistula and the attitude towards it. The study will also be conducted among women with and without vesico vaginal fistula. The result will provide information as to knowledge level regarding vesico vaginal fistula and as to how the women without fistula look at vesico vaginal fistula as a disease and their attitude towards fistula women. 1.2. Research questions study 1.2.1 What is the prevalence of self reported cases of Vesico Vaginal Fistula among married women? 1.2.2. What are the knowledge, attitude and knowledge of preventive measures of women towards vesico vaginal fistula in Birnin -Kebbi LGA of Kebbi- State, Nigeria? 1.3. Research Hypothesis Knowledge, attitude and preventive measures of women towards vesico vaginal fistula living in Birnin Kebbi Local Government of Kebbi State, Nigeria. 3 1.4. Objectives 1.4.1. General Objective To assess the knowledge and attitude towards vesico vaginal fistula in Birnin Kebbi LGA of Kebbi State, Nigeria. 1.4.2. Specific Objectives To study the prevalence of vesico vaginal fistula in Birnin Kebbi LGA. To assess the level of knowledge of married women on the contributing factors of vesico vaginal fistula. To find out if married women knows about preventive measures of vesico vaginal fistula. To determine the attitude towards women with vesico vaginal fistula. To determine the possible risks factors related to status of vesico vaginal fistula. To analyze the association of knowledge and attitude with the status of vesico vaginal fistula. 4 1.5. Conceptual Framework Socio -demographic Age Occupation Education Socio-cultural factors Age of Marriage Patriarchy Gender violence Workload Parity Status of Vesico vaginal fistula Access to health care: Antenatal visit Untrained birth Attendants Post natal Place of delivery Aaaaaa111111 Knowledge about the Risk factors, sign and symptoms and preventive measures of vesico vaginal fistula Attitude of women towards vesico vaginal fistula and women with recto vaginal fistula 1.6. Operational Definitions:- 5 1.6. Operational Definitions:- Age of Marriage: refers to getting marriage below 18 yrs. Poor birth practices: Home delivery by un- skill attendant. Parity: Multiple birth with low spacing. Patriarchy: Head of the house decision is final. Untrained birth attendants: Untrained or self practice in delivery. Knowledge: Knowledge in this study regarding to sign and symptom of VVF. Attitude: In this study refers to the availability of health services and the barriers to seeking. Preventive Measures: Knowledge about steps to tackle the VVF. Status of vesico vaginal fistula:- The status of vesico vaginal fistula in this study is women have obstetric fistula or vesico vaginal fistula 6 CHAPTER 11 LITERATURE REVIEW The chapter 11 deals with the: History Vesico Vaginal Fistula Global situation of vesico vaginal fistula Situation of Fistula in Nigeria Causes of vesico vaginal fistula Social Consequences of vesico vaginal fistula Treatment of vesico vaginal fistul 2.1. History of vesico vaginal fistula Vesico vagianal fistula or obstetric fistula has been identified to be a major issue or women of child bearing age since decades. In 1935 professor Derry from Cairo stated that, the remains of Queen Henhenit (2050 BC) were the oldest to discover fistula. Around 1845 james marion sims was the first surgeon to successfully repair VVF from a 3 female slaves in Montgonery Albana. Later, in 1852 he established a VVF repair centre where many patients from America and Europe came for surgery (Robert F. Zacharin 2008). A discovery during 1550 BC in the ancient Egypt, Aveicenna was a famous Arabian physician to differentiate VVF and obstetric (Derry DE 1935; 42:490). Another innovation came up in 1836 from Peter Mettnauer from Virginia who was identified to be the first surgeon to close fistula in United State (Aust N.Z.J. surg (2000) 70, 851-854.) Study indicates that, during the 19th Century, women with fistula in United State and Europe were caused by dystocia (Russell). In the early 20th century, more experiments and techniques came up to improve the quality of VVF repair. Again, in 1942 Latzko published a new procedure in repairing post -hysterctomy of VVF which recorded 95-100% success (VVF MedScape). Many historical innovations and advanced technique by surgeons has been recorded while, more researches and experiment are still ongoing for the improvement and better solution towards VVF. 7 2.2. Global Situation of Vesico Vaginal Fistula Vesico Vaginal fistula (VVF) which is also called obstetric fistula is an abnormal opening between the urinary bladder and the vagina or between the vagina and the rectum (RVF).This is caused as a result of prolong labor where the child presses against the normal way thereby developing the hole between the vagina and the urinary bladder (WHO def). Globally, 529,000 women were estimated to have died every year due to pregnancy and childbirth related complication. Almost 90 percent of this death is from Africa and Asia. Generally, 5 percent of this death is expected to have experience from obstructed labor (UNFPA/Nigeria 2005). According to M.J Metro report in 2006 indicated as VVF is not new disease it has been in existence for decades. He further highlighted that, in the third world countries mostly in the west 90% of VVF cases are caused by bladder trauma during hysterectomy surgery. Nowadays, advanced technologies from developed countries such as Europe and part of North America have eliminated the disease (VVF) in there region (M.J.Metro 2006). In the same report of metro 2006, he stated that, VVF is an uncomfortable disease the victims should be more serious towards their personal hygiene. In a WHO report of 2006 indicates that, about 2 million women living with untreated VVF, while 50,000 to 100,000 new cases are reported every year (WHO 2006).The increase on figures could be due to stigma that associated with the situation. Also in another report from WHO study on global burden of disease, stated that, if 2% of the obstructed labor are caused by VVF, then 130,000 women are going to be affected with the condition (WHO 1998 243-66). A study report published from UK indicated that, out of 166 cases treated within 18 year, only 21 cases are caused by obstetric complications. Another report from Nigeria stated that, out of 377 cases of VVF 369 cases are caused by childbirth (Lawson J. 1998, 83; 454-456). 8 2.3. Situation of vesico vaginal fistula in Nigeria The millennium Development Goals (MDGs) targeted at reducing the proportion of women dying in childbirth by three quarter by 2015 become unrealistic in Nigeria. (Adeyemi Ezekiel). The reason behind it is that, the country has made less progress in reducing maternal and mortality than any other sub-Saharan African countries. The maternal mortality rate in Nigeria estimated as 800nto 1,500 per 100,000 live birth (WHO 2006). The Northern part of the country has generally worse indicators with an estimated maternal mortality rate of 1,500/100,000 live birth. The high maternal mortality rate affects the basic health services in the country (NDHS 2003). According to UNFPA report, Nigeria approximately to have an estimate of 400,000 and 800,000 women affected with VVF condition while, 20,000 new cases are recorded every year. Most of these patients are from the northern part that lives in the rural areas where they find it difficulties in accessing proper medical care. (UNFPA/Fistula Nigeria 2005). Also statistics shows that, most of the VVF victims are below 20years. The underlying cause of VVF in Nigeria is due to prolong obstructed labor and mostly the young ages are at risk due to early marriage and early childbirth where there body is still in the stage of developing (WHO2006). In 2002, a multi-sectorial committee was setup by the Federal Ministry of Health to find the solution to the problem. At the same time the committee identifies Engender Health along with UNFPA/Nigeria to conduct a nationwide needs assessment in order to develop a framework and action plan for the elimination of fistula in Nigeria. Although Nigeria has been taking measure to address reproductive health and maternal health problems, the implemented interventions have not reach optimum coverage to obtain the desired impact. (NDHS 2008). 9 2.4 TYPES OF FISTULA Many surgeons have described fistula according to their experience during repair. In 1852 Sims also classified fistula by its location in the vagina. According to (Cater, Palumbo et al. 1952) stated that, it is difficult to describe the reported cases of fistula but, the standard method is to identify it during the actual operation and the result. Mayor clinic doctor has briefly classified six types of vaginal fistula Vesico vaginal fistula- is abnormal opening between the vagina and urinary bladder Ureterovaginal fistula- is abnormal opening that connect the vagina and the ducts which carry the urine from the kidney to the bladder. Urethrovaginal fistula- is an opening between the vagina and the tube that carries the urine out. Rectovaginal fistula- an opening between the vagin and the opening anus. Colovaginal fistula- the opening between the vagina and the large intestine. Enterovaginal fistula- an opening between the small intestine and the vagina. 10 2.5. CAUSES OF VVF Many publications and journals have their different versions on the causes of vesico vaginal fistula. According to medicine for African journal classified the factors that contributed to the cause of vesico vaginal fistula as: (MfA- VVF) Primary factor Childbirth: 8% of the VVF cases are prolong and obstructed labor where the deliveries are conducted by untrained skilled birth attendant or as a result of malpresentation of baby in the uterus which cause a lot of damage to the womans urinary tract. Hysterectomy or other gynecological problem:- This can be caused by accidental surgery that occur within the pelvic and may result to VVF. Gishiri cut or Salt cut:- It is a traditional way of treatment by a traditional healers mostly practice in Nigeria and some part of west Africa. When a woman present Gishiri disease symptoms such as vulva itching, absence of menstruation, infertility or obstructed labor. As a result of these symptoms a local surgical cut in the anterior vagina wall of a woman was done for total cure. During removal of clitoris in a process of female Genital mutilation or female circumcision the vaginal tissues and its surrounding will be scrapped thereby causes VVF. Secondary factor Sexual transmission disease or previous pelvic inflammatory disease. Bladder stone or retain foreign body within the vagina Diabetics 2.5.3. Socio-cultural causes The most underlying socio-cultural causes in Nigeria are: Early marriage; harmful traditional birth practices; poverty and illiteracy. 11 2.5.4. Early marriage Early marriage can be define as being marriage at the age of 15-24 years when the reproductive organs are not fully matured for taking responsibility as done by the adult. This will result t damage of the birth canal that will lead to vaginal fistula (John Zang). According to WHO/UNICEF, the recommended age of marriage is 25 to 26 years. In article 16, of the convention on the elimination of all forms of discrimination against women, specified the right to protect child marriage. I n a publication from unicef research centre on early marriage 2001 stated the guidelines on changing attitudes of families and societies towards child marriage. According to global assessment of child marriage it is estimated that, South Asia and Africa has the highest number of young women/young girls who are given out into marriage at the age of 15-24years. These will affect their nutritional status which will lead to so many pregnancy- related complications and most of the time she has no say in making decision for herself. Also in another report from WHO 2006 indicate that: more than 25% of women with fistula from Ethiopia and Nigeria are pregnant before the age of 15years while over 80% of them also become pregnant at 18years of age. 2.6. SOCIAL CONSEQUENCES OF VVF Almost all the report from the medical professional indicates the psychological consequences of women with VVF that bears. This is attributed due to lacj of support from the families and societies as a whole. Majority of these women faces great challenges in the society because of the odour from the incontinence of urine. 12 According to WHO report indicate that, women with VVF are facing difficulties to manage the urinary incontinence that causes odour from urine. The report also highlighted that, due to injury to the vaginal wall many complications may arise even after obstetric repair of the VVF. These complications are narrowing of the vagina, secondary amenorrhea inability to carry the child. However, (Murphy 1981 and Harrison 1983) stated that, the most traumatic aspect of VVF resulting to urinary incontinence and lost of child who sometime may lead to marital separation/divorce and also social excommunication. In another report from (WHO 2006), VVF patients are to be sympathized due to the lower social status of women in Nigeria. The most disheartening is that, they are abandoning by their husband and they have limited role within the family. 2.7. Treatment Women with fistula face a lot of challenges which most of the time find difficult to disclose their situation. The only solution for their survivor is surgery and personal hygiene. A statement from WHO Maternal Health and Safe Motherhood program indicate that, the endemic VVF area should focus prevention aspect through effective social changes that will improve the status of women. 13 CHAPTER 111 RESEARCH METHODOLOGY 3.1. Research Design Cross- sectional survey study among the married women of reproductive age in Birnin Kebbi LGA in Kebbi State, Nigeria. Focus group approach to assess the knowledge and attitude towards vesico vaginal fistula among people who live in Birnin Kebbi LGA, in Kebbi State, Nigeria. 3.2 Study Area Birnin- Kebbi LGA which lies in the centre of Kebbi State of Nigeria. A total of 45 wards :- Nasarawa 1, Nasarawa 11, Dangaldima, Marafa, Gwadangwaji, Zauro, Ambursa, Gulumbe, Ujario, Kardi, Gawasu, ,Makera, Kola, Tarasa, Fadama, 3.3. Study Population The study will be among the married women of reproductive age 15-49yrs of age. 3.4. Sample Technique Selection of Sample sites: Systematic Randomly sampling will be done for the collection of data in 45 settlements from 15 wards 3.4.1 Exclusion criteria are The sample who are not Birnin Kebbi cases The samples have never followed up doctor or refilled medical attention during 3 months prior to study The sample who are unable to communicate verbally and orally to interviewer appropriately 14 3.5. Sample size Yamane sample size Formula n=z2p (1-p) (e) 2 n= (1.96)2 X 0.22 (1-0.22) = 264 (0.05)2 Where , n = sample size p = proportion of women of reproductive age in B/Kebbi LGA that are expected to have knowledge about vesico viginal fistula. e = Marginal error or accepted error z = Standard value of 95% confidence interval of 1.96 Sample size is 264 + 10% to add up in case of any missing value/data, the total sample size will be 264 + 26.4 (10%)= 290 3.6. Measuring Tools Survey questionnaires are to be admitted on knowledge and attitude of married women towards vesico vaginal fistula. Face to Face interview will be carried out during the focus group discussion 3.7. Validity and Reliability test Validity test 3 Expert validity are to be selected from B/K LGA. Questionnaire will be checked and reviewed by these 3 experts. 15 Reliability test Questionnaire will be pr-tested by the respondents who are comparable to the targeted respondents. The reliability of questionnaire will be statistically tested with the Crobachs Alpha, which its acceptable coefficient is more than 0.74 3.8. Data Collection Constructed questionnaires to be used on the followings: Questionnaires General and household information, Knowledge towards the sign and symptom of Vesico Vaginal Fistula. Attitude towards the Preventive Measures on the vesico vaginal fistula Access to the health facility- information and service. Focus group discussion women with and without VVF 3.9. Data Analysis (Statistics) Questionnaire will be coded before entering into the computer. SPSS version 17 will be used Descriptive statistic is to be used to analyze data which will describe the frequency, percentage, mean and standard deviation 3.10. Ethical Consideration Under the guidance of College of Public Health Sciences, and local authorities Interviewees will be informed and explained Informed signed consent 16 Have freedom to withdrawal Confidentiality Convenience Can access to final report or results Not use for other purpose 3.11. Limitation The study will not represent the general population of Birnin Kebbi LGA. Different socio-demographic group may have different practice The study will not represent for other types. 17 REFERENCES LIST Margaret Murphy (1981). Social Consequences of Vesico-Vaginal Fistula in Northern Nigeria. Journal of Biosocial Science, 13 , pp 139-150 doi:10.1017/S0021932000013304 Vesicovaginal fistula. Retrieved from the web 15/08/2006. http://www.emedicine.com/med/topic3321.htm Wall, L. L (1988) Dead Mothers and injured wives: The Social Context of maternal morbidity and mortality among the Hausa of Northern Nigeria. Studies in family planning 29: 341-359 WHO (2006) Obstetric Fistula: Guiding principles for clinical management and programme development. WHP Press: Geneva Zacharin, R F. 1998. Obstetric Fistula. New York: Springer-Verlag Wien. COMPASS 2006 FMOH partnership works to achieve Millennium Development Goal of improving maternal health care Abuja, Nigeria September http://www.compassnigeria.org/site/PageServer?pagename=News_200609_FMoH_Partnership Haddad S, Fourier P: Quality, Cost and Utilization of Health Services in Developing Countries: A Longitudinal Study in Zaire. Soc Science Medicine 1995, 40: 743-753. Metro (2006) Modification of OConnors technique for the treatment of VVF repair described. Abu- Zahr C. Prolonged and obstructed labour, In: Murray C. Lopez A. Ed Health dimensions of sex and reproduction: the global burden of sextually transmitted diseases, HIV, maternal conditions, perinatal disorders and congenital anomalities, Cambridge: Havard University Press for WHO. 1998; 243-66 Ijaiya MA, Aboyeji PA. Obstetric urogenital fistula: the Ilorin experience, Nigeria. West Afr J Med 2004; 23(1):7-9. http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=John_Zhang Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/1016812 Lawson J. Vesico -Vaginal fistula y a tropical disease. Trans R Soc. Trop. Med Hyg 1998; 83: 454-456 18 11. MfA VVF   Vesicovaginal Fistula www.medicinemd.com/Med/VesicoVaginal_Fistula_en.html 12. About  Vaginal Fistulas   Mayo Clinic www.mayoclinic.org/vaginal-fistulas/about.htm 19 Time Schedule S/N Activities 2012 2013 Jun- Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun July 1 Preparation and paper review x x 2 Detail and tool development x x 3 Ethical consideration x x 4 Research tool try out test validity and reliability x 5 Revise the tool x 6 Recruitment of interviewer team x Field work and data collection x X Data analysis x X Report writing and Presentation x x Budget S/N ITEMS BUDGET Baht 1 Printing questionnaire -Photocopies -Stationery 8,000 Data collection -Photocopies Quest -Souvenir for respondent -Accommodation -Transportation cost -Data processing 21,000 Air fare Miscellaneous 50,000 20,000 Total Thesis document process 99,00

American Corporations and Internet Pornography Essay -- Exploratory Es

American Corporations and Internet Porn      Ã‚   In this essay, we shall consider the so-called "reputable" mainstream American companies that are reaping huge profits from Internet porn, as well as related considerations.    Marriott, Westin, and Hilton are known for their pornographic video deliveries to paying rooms, a practice which Omni Hotels discontinued when confronted by the American Family Association. On the other hand, Internet porn companies like Yahoo! In its x-rated Geocities sites, was not intimidated by AFA's threats. Instead, it took US Attorney General Ashcroft's strong action to intimidate Yahoo! into only a partial-withdrawal from Internet porn. However, Yahoo! Still retains marginally pornographic material on websites.    AT&T is the biggest American company that has accommodated itself to the pornography boom. Its cable division, AT&T Broadband, distributes to subscribers the explicit porn channel, The Hot Network; and this has unfortunate repercussions in the world of Internet pornography. In the spring of 2001, an interfaith coalition of relig...

Kingfisher Case Study

EISSN 2277-4955 THE KING WITHOUT FISHES†¦!!! [CASE ON CRISIS OF KINGFISHER AIRLINES] Prof. Bhavik M. Panchasara Marwadi Education Foundation’s Group of Institutions, RajKot, [email  protected] com ABSTRACT Indian Aviation Industry is one of the fastest growing markets in the world. But nowadays it is in the news due to different reason. And that is the failure of one of the leading aviation player – Kingfisher Airlines. The airline has been facing financial issues for many years. Till December 2011; Kingfisher Airlines had the second largest share in India's domestic air travel market.However due to the severe financial crisis faced by the airline, it has the fifth largest market share currently. Even the company have no funds to pay the salaries to the employees and is facing several other issues like fuel dues; aircraft lease rental dues, service tax dues and bank arrears. This case outlines the financial turmoil of the Kingfisher in detail. Keywords: Aviation industry, Kingfisher Airlines, financial turmoil, financial issues, crisis and debt restructuring INTRODUCTION: Kingfisher Airlines is an airline group based in India.Its head office is The Qube in Andheri (East), Mumbai; and Registered Office in UB City, Bangalore. Kingfisher Airlines was established in 2003. It is owned by the Bengaluru based United Breweries Group. Kingfisher Airlines, through its parent company United Breweries Group, has a 50% stake in low-cost carrier Kingfisher Red. The airline started commercial operations in 9 May 2005 with a fleet of four new Airbus A320-200s operating a flight from Mumbai to Delhi. It started its international operations on 3 September 2008 by connecting Bengaluru with London.The airline has been facing financial issues for many years. Till December 2011; Kingfisher Airlines had the second largest share in India's domestic air travel market. However due to the severe financial crisis faced by the airline, it has the fifth largest market s hare currently, only above Go Air. Kingfisher Airlines is one of the only seven airlines awarded 5star rating by Skytrax along with Cathay Pacific, Qatar Airways, Asiana Airlines, Malaysia Airlines, Singapore Airlines, and Hainan Airlines. Kingfisher operates 250 daily flights with regional and long-haul international services.In May 2009, Kingfisher Airlines carried more than 1 million passengers, giving it the highest market share among airlines in India. Kingfisher also owns the Skytrax award for India's best airline of the year 2011. BAUDDHIK VOLUME 3, NO. -1, JAN-APRIL-2012 84 EISSN 2277-4955 STARTING OF THE CRISES: Ever since the airline commenced operations in 2005, the company is reporting the losses. But the situation became more horrible after acquiring the Air Deccan in 2007. After acquiring the Air Deccan, the company suffered a loss of over Rs. 1,000 crore for three executive years. By early 2012, the airline accumulated the losses of over Rs. ,000 crore with half of it s fleet grounded and several members of its staff going on strike. Following table 1 highlights losses of the company since inception: Table 1: Net Reported Losses and debts since inception (Rs. In Crores) Year Loss Secured Loans Unsecured Loans Mar-11 -1027. 4 5,184. 53 1,872. 55 Mar-10 -1646. 22 4,842. 43 3,080. 17 Mar-09 -1608. 83 2,622. 52 3,043. 04 Mar-08 -188. 14 592. 38 342. 00 Jun-07 -419. 58 716. 71 200. 00 Jun-06 -340. 55 448. 16 3. 50 Mar-05 -16. 79 159. 42 125. 06 DEBT RESTRUCTURING: In the situation of loss and tough financial condition, the company went for more loans.Table 1 shows the portion of secured and unsecured loans taken by the company. Due to heavy burden of debt and interest, in November 2010, the company adopted the way of debt restructuring and under that total 18 leading lenders, those have landed total Rs. 8,000 crores, agreed to cut interest rates and convert part of loans to equity. As per the contract, lenders have converted Rs. 650 crores debt into p reference shares which will be converted into equity when the company lists the on the Luxembourg Stock Exchange by selling global depositary receipts (GDR).Shares will be converted into ordinary equity at the price at which the GDRs are sold to investors. Besides the 1,400 crore debt which will be 800 crore converted into preference shares, another CRISIS TILL CONTINUE: Debt restructuring also couldn’t change the game. By restructuring, company had reduced the interest charges by Rs. 500 crores every year, but due to the high leverage condition and increase in cost, the company started to face the liquidity problem. The company had no funds in hand and it created the following payment problems.DELAYED SALARY: Kingfisher Airline has staff strength of 6,000 and spends 58 crore on salaries a month. According 173. 66 to the first quarter financial results, it has increased from crore under the employees cost head, which has 163. 40 crore during the same quarter last year. Kingfi sher Airlines delayed salaries of its employees in August 2011, and for four months in succession from October 2011 to January 2012. Kingfisher also defaulted on paying the Tax Deducted at Source from the employee income to the tax department. debt has been converted into redeemable shares for 12 years.Due to debt restructuring, the company able to down the average interest rate to 11% and to save Rs. 500 crores every year in interest cost. BAUDDHIK VOLUME 3, NO. -1, JAN-APRIL-2012 85 EISSN 2277-4955 FUEL DUES: In the past several years, Kingfisher airlines had trouble paying their fuel bills. Due non-payment, several Kingfisher's vendors had filed winding up petition with the High Court. As on Nov 2011, winding up petition of seven creditors was pending before the Bangalore High Court. In the past Lufthansa Technik & Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL) had also filed winding up petition against Kingfisher Airlines.Here are some cases: ? ? HPCL: In Jul 2011, Hindustan Petrol eum Corporation Limited (HPCL) stopped the fuel (ATF) supplies for about two hours to Kingfisher airlines owing to the non-payment of dues. Situation was later resolved. ? BPCL: Bharat Petroleum Corporation in 2009 had filed a case against Kingfisher airlines for non-payment of dues. High court in an order said that the entire amount 245 crore had to be paid by Nov 2010 and the airline paid it in instalments. AIRCRAFT LEASE RENTAL DUES: Since 2008, it has been reported that Kingfisher Airlines has been unable to pay the aircraft lease rentals on time.Due to that, the Kingfisher Airlines has grounded 15 out of 66 aircraft in its fleet as it was unable to meet the maintenance and overhaul expenses. Here are the some major issues with: ? GECAS: In Nov 2008, GE Commercial Aviation Services threatened to repossess 04 leased planes in lieu of default. Kingfisher Airlines initially BAUDDHIK On 9 December 2011, S. K. Goel, chairman, Central Board of Excise and Customs (CBEC) announced that CBEC is considering legal action against Kingfisher for not paying service tax. As on 10th Jan 2012, Kingfisher Airlines has service tax arrears of 70 crore.The Ministry of Finance has given a concession to Kingfisher and instructed them to pay the dues by 31st Mar 2012. In Jan 2012, SERVICE TAX: Kingfisher received a notice from the Airports Authority of India on February 2012 regarding accumulated dues of 255. 06 crore. The airline was operating on a cash and carry basis for the last six months, with daily payments amounting to 0. 8 crore. AAI REPORTS: DVB: In Jul 2010, DVB Aviation Finance Asia Ltd (a lessor from Singapore), sued Kingfisher Airlines for lease rental default.Case was filed in a UK court on Jul 16, 2010 after Kingfisher did not pay for three month lease rental for A320 aircraft it leased from DVB. denied that it missed the payments. GECAS had filed a complaint with DGCA saying Kingfisher had defaulted on rentals for four A320 aircraft, and sought repossession of th e planes. In Jan 2009, The Karnataka High Court rejected petition by Kingfisher Airlines to restrain GECAS from taking any step to deregister and repossess the 04 aircraft in dispute. As a result, Kingfisher had to return the A320 aircraft to GECAS. VOLUME 3, NO. -1, JAN-APRIL-2012 87EISSN 2277-4955 Kingfisher paid 20 crore towards its dues for operational by February 20. With this, Kingfisher's market share clearly dropped to 11. 3%. The cancellation of the flights was accompanied by a BANK ARREARS: Kingfisher Airlines had not paid some bankers (Lenders) as per the Debt Recast Package (DRP) with lending banks. Till the end of Dec 2011, the arrears were estimated to be 260 crore to 280 crore. Lenders hence had told Kingfisher Airlines to clear its dues before they can release any more money sought by the Airline. Ravi Nedungadi, chief financial officer of UB Group however said that the arrears were 180 crore.State Bank of India (SBI) on 5th Jan 2012 declared Kingfisher Airlines a NP A. SBI is largest creditor and the leader of the consortium of banks in the DRP (Debt Recast Package) and has an exposure of NPA by following banks: State Bank of India Bank of Baroda Punjab National Bank IDBI Central bank of India Bank of India Corporation Bank THE CRISIS CONTINUE: During late February, 2012, Kingfisher Airlines started to sink into a fresh crisis. Several flights were cancelled and aircraft were grounded. The airline shut down most international short-haul operations and also temporarily closed bookings.Out of the 64 aircraft, only 22 were known to be 1,457. 78 crore. Thus, by Feb 2012, Kingfisher has been declared 13. 5% drop in the stocks of the company on 20 February 2012. The CEO of the airlines, Sanjay Agarwal was summoned by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation to explain the disruptions of the operations. The State Bank of India, which is the lead lender to Kingfisher airlines said that they would not consider giving any more loans to Kingfisher unless and until it comes up with a new equity by itself. Political activists also claimed that bailing or helping a private airline would lead to problems within the Government.By February 27, Kingfisher operated only above 150 out of its 400 flights and only 28 aircraft were functional. Reuters reported that if Kingfisher were to shutdown, it would be the biggest failure in the History of Indian Aviation. It was announced that the direct flights to the smaller airports of Jaipur, Thiruvananthapuram, Nagpur and also to Hyderabad's Rajiv Gandhi International Airport were all shut down and only one/two-stop flights from its main hubs of Delhi and Mumbai would operate. In response to a situation as bad as bankruptcy, Vijay Mallya announced that he had organized funds to pay all the employees' overdue salaries.With bank accounts frozen and huge debts due, it is unknown so as from where he arranged the money. But he apologized to his workers and said that he would pay them immediately. By thi s time, kingfisher had accumulated losses of 444 crore during the third quarter of the fiscal year 2011-12. December 2011 and part of the arrears. BAUDDHIK VOLUME 3, NO. -1, JAN-APRIL-2012 88 EISSN 2277-4955 FROZEN BANK ACCOUNTS: On March 3, 2012, The Central Board of Excise & Customs of India froze many more Kingfisher accounts as it was unable to pay all the dues as per schedule. Kingfisher was meant to pay 1 crore per working day.Aviation minister Ajit Singh warned the airline about the temporary suspension of the license until the crisis was sorted out. He announced that the rest of the airline's fleet would be grounded and all flights cancelled until the crisis came to an end. This would be only one step from permanently closing the airline. IATA SUSPENSION: On March 7, 2012 IATA suspended ticket sales of Kingfisher airlines citing non-payment of dues as the primary reason, and they said that sales services will only be restored once Kingfisher settles ICH (IATA Clearing House) account.IATA also immediately directed all travel agents to stop booking tickets for Kingfisher. This would affect Kingfisher's business by around 30%. Kingfisher claimed that frozen bank accounts was the main cause of being unable to pay the IATA, and the airline started making alternate arrangements for the sale of tickets. Soon it became difficult for the airline to follow the much smaller schedule that it earlier released as even more pilots began to go on strike. UNCERTAINTY AHEAD: After analysing the entire scenario, there are strong possibilities of more difficult situation in the last month of fiscal year 2011-12.The company is in dilemma of finding help, but from where? 2. TEACHING NOTES 1. The purpose of the case is to make the students aware about the situation of financial crisis in any organisation. The issues involved in the case are about the financial turmoil and its effects on the business and market share of the company. 3. 4. 2. 1. Is the Problem of Kingfisher Ai rlines Industry Specific or Company Specific? What is the Impact of High Level of Debt on the operating performance of company? Should Government bailout Kingfisher Airlines? According to you, what are the possible ways for the company to overcome this situation?QUESTION FOR DISCUSSION: Government has refused for bailing and all the lenders and bankers have no more trust. The employees are also not able to tolerate the salary crisis and the slipping market share leads the more difficulties. Promoter Vijay Malya has to decide the way ahead. Whether is it possible to save the company? There are very few alternatives. As per the previous news, Etihad Airways was interested in investing in Kingfisher by providing equity in exchange for a stake in the airline. Also involved in the talks was the International Airlines Group, owner of British flag carrier British Airways and Spanish flag carrier Iberia.But the question is the permission by Government. So at present there is very tough situ ation for Vijay Malya and for the company. Will new fiscal year bring any solution for the company? Let’s wait and watch. BAUDDHIK VOLUME 3, NO. -1, JAN-APRIL-2012 89 EISSN 2277-4955 3. The case would be first given for individual reading for 15 min and then for 15 min the case can be discussed in groups of 4-5 students. 4. The case can be taught along with the concepts like ways to overcome the crisis and surviving strategies required to save the organisation keeping in mind the possible different options available. 5.The students can come prepared with topics of prevailing crisis in Indian aviation industry and REFERENCES: 6. other factors related to the aviation industry in detail. Cross reference can be made taking into account the strategies used by the local, market of the falling organisation. national and international players to capture the slipping http://www. flykingfisher. com/mediacenter/press-releases/kingfisher-airlinesannouncement. aspx http://in. finance. yah oo. com/news/kingfisherairlines-q3-loss-widens-033419822. html http://timesofindia. indiatimes. com/india/Kingfi sher†¦ /12258986. cms http://articles. economictimes. ndiatimes. com/2 011-12-08/news/30490358_1_pilots-industrialaction-kingfisher airlines http://profit. ndtv. com/News/Article/aai-warnskingfisher-airlines-to-settle-dues-297284 http://articles. economictimes. indiatimes. com/2 010-09-26/news/27585421_1_cash-and-carrymode-bpcl-s chairman-kingfisher-airlines http://timesofindia. indiatimes. com/business/indiabusiness/Kingfisher-may-have-to-weather-pilotstorm-next/articleshow/12214372. cms Annexure 1: Market share of Kingfisher Airlines as on January 2012 in the domestic Aviation Airline/Company Jet Airways (Including Jet Lite) Indigo Air India Spice Jet Kingfisher Go Air Share 28. 8% 20. 8% 17. 1% 16. 3% 11. 3% 5. 8% Source: http://in. finance. yahoo. com/news/kingfisher-airlines-q3-loss-widens-033419822. html BAUDDHIK VOLUME 3, NO. -1, JAN-APRIL-2012 90 EISSN 2277-4 955 Annexure 2: Price Movement and Performance Charts of Kingfisher Airlines Annexure 3: Index Comparison and Ownership Pattern of Kingfisher Airlines Source:http://www. bseindia. com/bseplus/StockReach/AdvanceStockReach. aspx? scripcode=532747 Annexure 4: Comparative Balance Sheet of Kingfisher Airlines [Rs. In crores] Sources Of Funds Total Share Capital Equity Share Capital Share Appl.Money Pref. Share Capital Reserves Net worth Mar '11 1,050. 88 497. 78 2. 95 553. 10 -4,005. 02 -2,951. 19 Mar '10 362. 91 265. 91 7. 48 97. 00 -4,268. 84 -3,898. 45 Mar '09 362. 91 265. 91 8. 11 97. 00 -2,496. 36 -2,125. 34 Mar '08 135. 80 135. 80 10. 09 0. 00 52. 99 198. 88 Jun '07 135. 47 135. 47 0. 00 0. 00 249. 23 384. 70 Jun '06 98. 18 98. 18 0. 00 0. 00 125. 95 224. 13 Mar’05 16. 20 16. 20 0. 00 0. 00 -2. 54 13. 66 BAUDDHIK VOLUME 3, NO. -1, JAN-APRIL-2012 85 EISSN 2277-4955 Secured Loans Unsecured Loans Total Debt Total Liabilities Application Of Funds Gross Block Less: Accum.Dep. Net Block Capital WIP Investments Inventories Sundry Debtors Cash & Bank Bal. Total CA Loans & Adv. FDs CA, Loans & Adv. Current Liabilities Provisions Total CL & Prov. Net Current Assets Misc. Expenses Total Assets 2,254. 26 682. 37 1,571. 89 673. 35 0. 05 187. 65 440. 53 88. 18 716. 36 5,380. 19 164. 18 6,260. 73 4,463. 86 62. 11 4,525. 97 1,734. 76 125. 84 4,105. 89 2,048. 14 493. 62 1,554. 52 980. 61 0. 05 164. 88 322. 49 50. 91 538. 28 4,604. 31 155. 56 5,298. 15 3,908. 03 46. 77 3,954. 80 1,343. 35 145. 64 4,024. 17 1,891. 80 316. 29 1,575. 51 1,630. 95 0. 05 147. 5 229. 84 49. 41 426. 50 3,640. 42 122. 45 4,189. 37 3,814. 63 45. 55 3,860. 18 329. 19 4. 51 3,540. 21 322. 33 43. 55 278. 78 346. 25 0. 00 48. 64 27. 16 5. 84 81. 64 832. 49 274. 29 1,188. 42 687. 31 9. 52 696. 83 491. 59 16. 64 1,133. 26 340. 77 33. 74 307. 03 357. 62 0. 41 61. 62 35. 24 422. 05 518. 91 149. 77 395. 00 1,063. 68 449. 15 6. 94 456. 09 607. 59 28. 75 1,301. 40 247. 33 16. 40 230. 93 286. 53 0. 41 57. 2 6 13. 06 181. 17 251. 49 232. 03 75. 31 558. 83 434. 05 5. 93 439. 98 118. 85 39. 08 675. 80 55. 25 4. 52 50. 73 153. 09 0. 45 36. 40 8. 27 47. 08 91. 75 47. 8 35. 85 174. 88 108. 77 1. 07 109. 84 65. 04 28. 83 298. 14 5,184. 53 1,872. 55 7,057. 08 4,105. 89 4,842. 43 3,080. 17 7,922. 60 4,024. 15 2,622. 52 3,043. 04 5,665. 56 3,540. 22 592. 38 342. 00 934. 38 1,133. 26 716. 71 200. 00 916. 71 1,301. 41 448. 16 3. 50 451. 66 657. 79 159. 42 125. 06 284. 48 298. 14 Source:http://www. moneycontrol. com/financials/kingfisherairlines/balancesheet/KA02#KA02 Annexure 5: Comparative P A/c of Kingfisher Airlines [Rs. In crores] Income Net Sales Other Income Total Income Expenditure Raw Materials Power & Fuel Cost Employee Cost Other Manu.Exp. Sell. & Admn Exp. 56. 69 2,274. 03 680. 54 1,192. 80 997. 34 40. 89 1,802. 99 689. 38 1,108. 82 996. 85 51. 19 2,602. 62 825. 42 1,112. 85 1,062. 74 43. 79 889. 30 244. 96 408. 21 180. 39 45. 94 979. 50 247. 72 617. 56 146. 78 36. 73 625. 45 163. 04 42 5. 48 114. 38 5. 77 92. 98 31. 76 104. 78 29. 13 Mar '11 6,233. 38 81. 58 6,314. 96 Mar '10 5,067. 92 -333. 30 4,734. 62 Mar '09 5,269. 17 598. 90 5,868. 07 Mar '08 1,456. 28 113. 62 1,569. 90 Jun '07 1,800. 21 342. 10 2,142. 31 Jun’06 1285. 42 59. 64 1345. 06 Mar’05 305. 55 14. 73 320. 28 BAUDDHIK VOLUME 3, NO. 1, JAN-APRIL-2012 86 EISSN 2277-4955 Misc. Exp. Total Expenses PBDIT Interest PBDT Depreciation Other Written Off Profit Before Tax Extra-ordinary items Tax Reported Net Profit Shares in issue (lakhs) EPS (Rs) Equity Dividend (%) Book Value (Rs) Per share data (annualised) 4,977. 79 -20. 64 0. 00 -70. 46 2,659. 09 -61. 95 0. 00 -150. 54 2,659. 09 -60. 50 0. 00 -83. 88 1,357. 99 -13. 85 0. 00 13. 90 1,354. 70 -30. 97 0. 00 28. 40 981. 82 -34. 69 0. 00 22. 83 31. 06 -54. 05 0. 00 43. 96 87. 94 5,289. 34 1,025. 62 2,340. 32 -1,314. 70 203. 02 38. 01 -1,555. 73 72. 99 -455. 35

Gun Ownership by Country -- Americans Lead

Gun Ownership by Country Americans Lead The United States has the highest level of gun ownership per person of any country. This fact is startling but true. According to data compiled by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) and analyzed by  The Guardian, Americans own 42 percent of all civilian guns in the world. This figure is especially startling when you consider that the U.S. makes up just 4.4 percent of the worlds population. Just How Many Guns Do Americans Own? The estimated tally in 2012, according to the UN, was 270 million civilian-owned guns in the U.S., or 88 guns per every 100 hundred people.  Unsurprisingly, given these figures, the U.S.  has the highest number of guns per capita (per person) and the highest rate of gun-related homicides of all developed countries: 29.7 per 1 million people. By comparison, no other developed countries come even close to those rates. Among the thirteen developed countries studied, the average rate of gun-related homicide is 4 per 1 million people. The developed nation with the rate closest to the U.S., Switzerland, has just 7.7 gun-related homicides per 1 million people. (There are other countries with higher rates of gun-related homicide per capita, but not among developed nations.) Gun rights advocates often suggest that the U.S. has high annual numbers of gun-related crime because of the size of our population, but these statistics which examine rates rather than totals prove otherwise. About a Third of American Households Own All Those Guns In terms of ownership, however, the rate of 88 guns per 100 people is rather misleading. In reality, the majority of civilian-owned guns in the U.S. are owned by a minority of gun owners. Just over a third of U.S. households own guns, but according to the 2004 National Firearms Survey, 20 percent of those households own a full 65 percent of the total civilian gun stock. American Gun Ownership Is a Social Problem In a society as saturated in guns as the U.S., its important to recognize that gun violence is a  social, rather than an individual or psychological problem. A 2010 study by professors Paul Appelbaum and Jeffrey Swanson published in  Psychiatric Services  found that just 3–5 percent of violence can be attributed to mental illness, and in most of these cases guns were not used. While those with certain types of serious mental illness are more likely than the general public to commit an act of violence, these individuals only make up a small percentage of people with mental illness: most people with a mental illness don’t engage in violent behavior. Moreover, individuals with mental illness are also at a higher risk of being victims of violence. According to data from the National Institute of Mental Health, alcohol is a much more significant contributing factor to the likelihood of whether someone will commit a violent act. Sociologists believe that gun violence is a social problem because it is socially created by support for laws and policies that enable gun ownership on a mass scale. It is justified and perpetuated by social phenomena too, like the widespread ideology that guns represent freedom  and the troubling discursive trope that guns make society safer, though overwhelming evidence points to the contrary. This social problem is also fueled by sensationalist news coverage and dangerous politicking focused on violent crime, leading the American public to believe that gun  crime is more common today than it was two decades ago, despite the fact that it has been on the decline for decades. According to a 2013 Pew Research Center survey, just 12 percent of U.S. adults know the truth. The connection between the presence of guns in a household and gun-related deaths is undeniable. Countless studies have shown that living in a home where guns are present increases ones risk of dying by homicide, suicide, or by gun-related accident. Studies also show that it is women who are at greater risk than men in this situation, and that guns in the home also increase the risk that a woman suffering domestic abuse will ultimately be killed by her abuser (see the extensive list of publications by Dr. Jacquelyn C. Campbell of Johns Hopkins University). So, the question then is, why do we as a society insist on denying the very clear connection between the presence of guns and gun-related violence? This is a pressing area of sociological inquiry if ever there was one.

Crisis on America essays

Crisis on America essays September 11, 2001 marked a day which will live in emphamy. Four domestic air carriers were hijacked by terrorists. Two were crashed into the World Trade Center Towers, one to the Pentagon, and one in Pennsylvania. Now the United States is known for being a state of freedom and unity, but were we too vulnerable and to open to this attack believed to be by Osama Bin Laden. The reasons for the attack on America are lack of security, the element of suprise, and a strong belief in freedom. First, the reason for the attack on America was a lack of security. Statistics have began to show that their is more security on international flights than on domestic air carriers. Obviously the terrorists studied this piece of information and was able to plan from it. Statistics and tests from the goverment have also proven that security sometimes judge people on how they look and decide whether they should check them or not. And buy this method, some of the goverment officials were able to slip by with knives and box cutters too. So should we blame the security for this traumatizing crime? I dont believe thats for us to decide. But we can state as a main factor that the reason for the attack on America was a lack of security. Secondly, the reason for the attack on America was the element of surprise. Lets just be truthful, The United States believed that this could never happen. We spend so much time helping other countries and continents that we left ourselves open to anything. And It just so happens that someone finally took advantage of that openess. Through years of planning and being taught in our country, terrorists were able to manipulate metal detectors and board airplanes with boxcutters and knives and hijack them. But not only did they hijack them, they took out the transponders and were able to fly the machines into what ...

Brainstorm By Howard Nemerov Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Brainstorm By Howard Nemerov - Essay Example Although the span of time in which the events of this poem happened is short, it is very detailed, and the details are very clear. It shows how much can happen in a very short time. If I were to liken this poem to a thing, then it would be to a photograph that captures the details of a beautiful moment. This poem describes a moment of reflection for the speaker, where he faces a storm while in the house, and where his mind takes him to an imagined circumstance of becoming the house, of feeling the crows on his head while he is the house, of being torn down by nature, and of being reborn again into something new. Reading the poem, I noticed a rhyme scheme on alternate lines. In some cases, the author used internal rhyme to satisfy the rhyme scheme. The poem has two stanzas, with the first stanza consisting of the bulk of the poem and the second stanza consisting of only one line, which somehow serves as a punch line. Simile can be observed in line 6, where the silence of the wind is likened to a blind man walking through the house. Personification can be observed in lines 7 to 8, where the timber and sap of the house are said to ‘revolt’ from the hold of the washer, bank, and spike. By line 16, I noticed the author used ‘blind’ thrice already, but in different contexts. The first instance refers to the ‘window blinds’, the next is the blind man, and lastly, when the window vanes blur or ‘began to blind’ with rain. At first, it disturbed me, but then maybe the author meant it this way because it probably symbolized something. The house and c rows are personified as they talked to each other. The speaker is then worried that ‘the secret’ might be out as the crows and the house talk. The secret is that â€Å"houses are only trees stretched on the rack.† If nature knew this secret, then it would claim what is rightfully hers; rain will put rust in the nails, shingles will be warped with

Like Water for Chocolate Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Like Water for Chocolate - Essay Example She chooses to block out the poor treatment and hide her feelings away, tucked in the corner of her mind. But when one particular visitor group graces her with his presence, she is surprised and decides not to judge the rest of them. "They left peacefully, just as they had come, and Mama Elena was quite disconcerted by the way they had treated her: it didn’t fit the picture of the heartless ruffians she’d been expecting. From that day on she would not express any opinion about the revolutionaries. What she never learned was that this captain was the same Juan Alejandrez had carried off her daughter Gertrudis some months before." Chapter twelve is a very unique chapter because it gives us a glimpse of the Mama Elena’s character as she seems to slightly change throughout the story. This chapter focuses on the month of December. It’s been almost a year since they had found Tita’s recipes and Mama Elena is still upset that her daughter Tita (who had die d) wants to marry Pedro and leave her all alone. Her tyrannical personality seems to keep people away but for some reason, Juan Alejandrez’s sincere concern for her three daughters softened her heart. No trespassing! The visit from the entire battalion was more of a surprise as Mama Elena began to defend her turf. She raised her gun high and pointed it to the troops. Due to her maternal authority, even grown men were afraid of her. Though they had a perfect shot, they could not seem to do away with her because of her daunting personality. But as the captain chose not to shoot her, she realized that her assumptions of these people were incorrect. Though they came to take, they had such great respect for Mama Elena and her people. This confused her, making her rethink the definition of â€Å"heartless ruffians.† She feared them taking what was precious to her. She feared being left alone. According to tradition, who would care for her after all were gone? The chapterâ₠¬â„¢s theme is quite simple. The title of the chapter is â€Å"Chiles in Walnut Sauce.† This refers to hot personalities in a calming setting. The quote resembles this title and theme only because you have the so called â€Å"thieves† with a good nature. It appears that the title itself is ironic because no one expects to be confronted by polite thieves. It just does not fit the definition. This dish was being made for the wedding, so the shelling of the nuts had to be done quickly and correctly. As the chapter continues, and the ranch is burned down, the celebration of the weddings is ironically placed. Fireworks are not the causes of the fire but instead, candles†¦.to think the fire is fireworks celebrating a union creates a symbol of the last straw and is a sign the oppression being stopped. Once the ranch burnt to the ground, no longer were the Gaza sisters under Mama Elena’s tyrannical rule. Chili in a Walnut sauce is like a deaf person enjoying music. You must do what is expected of you! Duty, tradition and responsibility are the overriding themes in the entire book â€Å"Like Water for Chocolate.† Each are very important as the book moves from what one feels they must do to what one has to do for themselves. As tradition lies at the center of the story, it is important to note that throughout generations, tradition does not change, instead, people do. As