Sunday, October 6, 2019

Business Risks in the Pharmaceutical Industry Essay

Business Risks in the Pharmaceutical Industry - Essay Example Manufacturers of generic pharmaceutical products in countries like Asia and Latin America are challenging the company's patents and trademark protection. 2. Exchange rate fluctuations are a major concern for a company with headquarters in the U.K., operations in 45 countries, 64,200 employees of whom 60% are based in Europe (AstraZeneca, 2005, p. 16), 49% of sales from the U.S. and Canada, and 30 manufacturing sites in 20 countries buying and selling raw materials from different sources using a variety of currencies (AstraZeneca, 2005, p. 14), although they are minimizing this to avoid currency fluctuation effects. The company reports in U.S. dollars, so a stronger dollar will have a negative effect on its bottom line due to lower dollar revenues on sales in foreign currencies. Although AstraZeneca mitigates currency risk, it does not "seek to remove all such risks (AstraZeneca, 2005, p. 155)." The company, with a $1.1b fixed interest rate debt, is exposed to interest rate risk due to fluctuations in market interest rates. By converting fixed interest debt to floating rate (AstraZeneca, 2005, p. 91), every one hundred basis point (on e percent) rise in interest rates means the company pays $11m more. 3. Uncertainties of developing new products from the Research and Development (R&D) pipeline affects not only AstraZeneca but the whole pharmaceutical industry, which spends an estimated $1 billion over at least ten years to launch a new drug (KPMG, 2005, p.6), which includes losses incurred in developing drugs that do not even reach the market. Companies need to launch new drugs to replace those with expiring patents, marketing exclusivity or trademarks (Bate, 1997, p. 230-231). 4. AstraZeneca is the 9th largest pharmaceutical company in the world (Fortune, 2005) and competes with bigger companies with more resources for R&D and marketing. It also competes with biotechnology companies developing similar products. Increasing regulations in Europe, the Americas, and Asia (Clifford and Flochel, 2005) that put caps on drug prices directly or indirectly lead to low revenues and margins. 5. The company is at risk of paying higher taxes if existing U.K.-recognized double tax treaties are revoked for any reason. Fortunately, these treaties are holding but the risk of being taxed more than once for the same revenue is real. 6. AstraZeneca had a product liability scare in 2004 with Crestor, an anti-cholesterol drug. As the recent experience of Merck with Vioxx has shown, adverse publicity depresses the stock price and wipes out a portion of potential revenues (Bate, 1997, p. 287-288). 7. AstraZeneca's reliance on other companies for raw materials and services expose it to supply chain risks. If these third parties do not deliver, the company suffers stoppages in production, late deliveries, and lost revenues as the market switches to similar drugs. 8. The pharmaceutical i

Saturday, October 5, 2019

Nursing Learning Experiences Coursework Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Nursing Learning Experiences - Coursework Example The study analyses the nine essential aspects that outline the results expected of graduates of baccalaureate nursing. The essentials enhance a nurse graduate to work in diverse fields because they oblige an individual to integrate skills, knowledge and attitudes developed from the study in his or her daily activities. The nine essentials are the key to nursing activities; they involve learning and portraying knowledge and skills in all aspects of nursing. Through this essential, nurses learn that good cohesion between a nurse and the community is very essential in nursing profession. It enhances success in most of the activities involving patient care. According to â€Å"The Essentials of Baccalaureate Education for Professional Practice† (2008), liberal education constitute broad understanding of wide scope of science, cultures, social practices, and ability to implement the learnt elements in overcoming complex problems and challenges. From this, it is evident that nurses d o learn that having broad understanding of different cultures as well as social practices assist significantly in offering nursing care to patients from different backgrounds. It is also evident that broad understanding of science as well as arts enables a nurse to solve complex problems and challenges associated with nursing care. It is evident that broad understanding of cultures as well as social practices enables a nurse to advance his or her leadership skills through intermingling with people of different societies and cultural practices easily.

Friday, October 4, 2019

Supporting Children Essay Example for Free

Supporting Children Essay â€Å"The Human Rights Act 1998 came in to force in October 2000 and had a big impact on current legislation in UK.† (Tassoni. P, 2007, pg. 115) Although this Act was not created specifically for the protection of children, It does ensure that children have the same rights as adults, for example the right to dignity. It also ensures they are given respect and fairness in the way theyre treated. This led to settings not being able to use any type of physical punishment, like slapping or caning despite gaining the parents consent to do so or not because it is seen as a violation to a childs right as it is degrading. The United Nations Convention of the Rights of the Child 1989 was also signed by the UK as an addition to The Human Right Act 1998 as it gives children under the age of 18 their own set of rights. This particular piece of legislation was separated into five separate strands; reinforcing the importance of fundamental human dignity; highlighting and defending the familys role in childrens lives; making sure children are respected; supporting the principle of not discriminating children; as well ensuring that the legal framework of the UK complies with the Convention. Within this piece of legislation are many articles which focus on difference parts of childrens rights, but there are a specific few that have an impact on practice. For example: Article 2 – which talks about the right to be protected against any discrimination – means that practitioners have to treat all children fairly and settings must give equal opportunities; Article 3 – says that the best interest of the child should always be considered in actions where they are concerned – this means that practitioners have to ensure the child has the care they needs and that all their needs are being met, whether the practitioner agrees with the way its done; Article 12 – states that children have a right to express their views freely, and be listened to – which means that all childrens opinions, likes, dislikes etc. are taken into consideration at all times; Article 13 – Talks about children having freedom of expression and exchange of information regardless of frontiers – this means children should be able to ask questions and be answered with things that concern them; and Article 28 – A child has the right to education with a view to achieving – which is why children in the UK from the age of around 5 must attend some kind of educational setting. Another piece of legislation used in the UK is the Children Act 1989 which was created after the UNCRC was adopted, it was made to bring other pieces of legislation together into one Act, but this meant that it covered a wide range of things from child protection to the inspection of settings to parental responsibilities. As a result of this act settings now have to make sure they view parents as partners as they are the childs main carer and have a right to know and help with their childs development, this is done by regularly updating the parents and sharing all information. It also stated that the welfare of the child is paramount and that children and young peoples views should always be taken into consideration during any decision making about their future care within all settings. After the Children Act 1989 came the Children Act 2004 which was made as an addition and provided for a childrens commissioner as well as allowing the government to ensure that the Every Child Matters scheme had a legal framework to go with it. This scheme is now used through out appropriate childcare settings and ensures that the services at hand for children work together more effectively. The Disability Discrimination Act 1995 was made so that discrimination against children and their families was prevented, this is because the act made it illegal not to provide access for disabled people to their settings whether this meant providing wheelchair access, or having things printed in large fonts for parents/carers or ensuring children are given the opportunity to join in all activities and experiences regardless of their disability. E3 – In order to safeguard children, all settings have many policies and procedures in place to ensure that practitioners know what their roles and responsibilities are at all times. Other wise, the children would be at risk from many different things. Policies like; Health and Safety; Child Protection; Anti Bullying; Behaviour; Fire Procedures; Partnership with Parents; Anti-Discrimination; Food Hygiene/Avoiding Cross-infection; Whistle blowing; Confidentiality and a Signing in/out Policy all help to keep children healthy, safe and secure and avoid putting them in any danger or harm. The signing in/out policy means that any visitor or volunteer who comes into the setting should wear proof of identification that shows that they are a member of staff especially in larger settings. It is also crucial to check the adults coming in, are allowed to be in the setting, (for example parents who are not allowed to pick up their child) and all visitors should sign in and out of the setting which not only provides the setting with proof of identity but also lets the staff know who has entered the building and when, which helps to protect children as it means no one who may put the children at risk are allowed around the children, and that in the case of any child being abused by a visitor or someone entering the building, it is possible to look back and have access to important information like names and dates. A whistle blowing policy is for someone within the organisation or setting that wants to report inappropriate actions of another practitioner by alerting someone in a higher position to them e.g. room supervisor who then deals with the report and helps to prevent any abuse from those employees working directly with the children which in turn helps to prevents the allegations of abuse in future. The Food hygiene or Cross infection policy was implemented to avoid any children (or staff) becoming ill and catching infectious illnesses. Using this policy means that all staff who prepare and cook food which is served to others, have to be trained in food handling procedures, as well cleaning of resources, toys and equipment of there is an outbreak of infectious illness within the setting. This is to avoid any germs spreading causing other children and staff to have poor health. E4 All settings have specific policies to ensure that children and their families feel welcomed and included at all times during their time at the nursery. One of the policies which does this is the Equal Opportunities policy which means as a practitioner you have a duty to ensure that children as well as their carers are valued and not discriminated against either by adults or by other children. This policy also helps to prevent discrimination because every one is entitled to join in all activities, regardless of their age/stage or ability. This is because the policy says that every activity or experience provided at the nursery must be easily adaptable for everyone to participate in. By having a settling in policy, this also makes parents/carers feel more welcomed into the setting and more reassured about their child starting at the nursery, because it shows them you understand that each child is different in the way they adapt to new situations, some fit right in, and others take time to get used to the new people and activities. The behaviour policy which can be found in all childcare settings also helps to prevent any children or families being discriminated against, because by having this policy parents/carers understand that the practitioners are being fair if a situation occurs where a child behaves inappropriately, this means that allegations of discrimination are less likely to be made against practitioners and parents understand that behaviour policy applies to ALL children, and any other child would be treated equally. E5 – As children, we depend on adults a lot, but the older we get, the more independent we become. If adults give children the chance to be self-reliant, and independent, they become confident in themselves and their ability to do certain things, which means they feel empowered. To do this, children must be given choice in lots of things they do, and encouragement to do things by themselves where choice is not available, for example getting dressed or going to the toilet. One way to offer children choice as part of their daily routine, is through food, as all children have to eat, but all children are different and enjoy different food. If a practitioner gives the child choice between two types of vegetables or drinks, for example then the child will learn to make simple decisions, and the more they do it the more confidence they will gain as they know what they like and dislike, and this will make them feel grown up and help there self-esteem grow rather than someone telling them what they are eating and them doing so. One other strategy for helping children to feel empowered through choice, would be in play, this is done by setting up various activities and letting them choose between them, this is a more child-led approach, as they are able to find an activity most suited to their interests, instead of being told they are doing a specific activity and not enjoying it. By letting them choose, again they will feel more independent and if they enjoy the activity they will also become more confident because they will feel like they made the right choice for themselves giving them a sense of achievement. D2 – By giving children choice in both food, and in play, you are encouraging them to be independent, even if they dont realise it. However, it is important that children are allowed to change there mind in play as this helps them learn what they enjoy doing, children might not understand what kind of things they like or dislike they just know what they want to do. By giving them choice, and asking why they made that choice, they should learn and understand their preferences helping them to make simple decisions in the future, leading them to make more complicated ones later on. It is important that practitioners ensure they are using choice-giving as a way to empower children, rather than getting them to do what the practitioner wants. For example, it is not helpful to the child, if you say you can either choose to apologise to this girl, or you are not going outside the child is being given a choice, rather than understanding their actions were unkind. You need to be clear on what is right or wrong and explain consequences and give choice through other activities, and as a practitioner, it is unfair on the child if you tell them they made a bad choice, instead you should ask them to evaluate their own choice and the consequences so they can make a better choice for them in future. By doing this, they have confidence in themselves because they will feel good after making a choice which is suitable for them, for example being kind to another child, will mean they are praised and shows they know how to respect others, not only encouraging them to be kind more often, but also easing decision making for them helping them to feel empowered. E6 – During a childs life, they will have to go through many transitions, most children will go through the transition of moving class, or school, some children may move house or city, and other children may go through bereavement. Most of these transitions, practitioners can help prepare for by doing many things. For example, most childcare settings have a settling in policy that they can refer to for new children. This is because If a child is moving from nursery to reception in a completely separate building with new teachers, they will find it very distressing if it is quite sudden. However there are many things settings can do to help the child settle in steadily, like: Meeting the teacher/key worker a few times before they start, where the practitioner will introduce themselves and get to know the child, this is so they know a familiar face, and know that they can trust the teacher/key worker. Having half days is also an important way of introducing a child to a new situation, especially if they are going from half days to full days in a new place. Other wise the child will be overwhelmed, they will feel uncomfortable being in a new place with new people for longer than they are usually left without their parent/carer. Once they have started at a new place, it may be reassuring for them to have their previous teachers or key workers visit, as they are likely to trust them, and notice that if they feel comfortable here, then it is okay for the child to feel comfortable too helping them feel reassured. Some places may offer for the child to come once or twice for short sessions and participate in activities like stories, this gets them used to the place in small doses and that way when they officially move, they will be used to the building and the people, making it less distressing for them. E7 – Unfortunately in some settings discrimination may occur, against some children and families. Which is why it important to ensure that you are fair and treat everyone as a unique individual. Discrimination can occur when people have stereotypical attitudes, this means that they see a group of people with one characteristic in common and think they are all the same, for example, disabled people cannot live by themselves. Some stereotypes can lead to practitioners making assumptions about what children can do. Prejudice is also another cause of discrimination, as it stems from stereotyping. If someone is prejudice then it means they are pre-judging someone without knowing anything about them, due to a specific stereotypical view a practitioner may hold. For example, if a child is over weight, they may assume the child doesnt want to take part in physical activities. Which is unfair on the child, as this is not necessarily true. If a child or there family, is discriminated against, they will start to pick up on the actions of the practitioner, and it will have an affect on their self-esteem, and self-worth, as by the age of 3 or 4 a child will have developed their sense of identity and understand racial and gender differences, and the way people treat each other. A child will understand the differences in the way the people they look up to treat others especially if it because they are a different race, age or gender. If they feel discriminated against, they will have a lower self-worth and self-esteem, they may grow up feeling inferior to others because of different characteristics like colour, they may fear failing new activities, leading them t achieve and succeed less at school, or have difficulty in developing emotionally/socially in order to form relationships in the future. D1 Gathering information to support the child would be a good way to prepare children for transitions because practitioners often feel the need to reassure children by talking about the new setting they are going to, whether it is a hospital, new school etc. but often the children are given misinformation, leading them to expect certain things or do things in a particular way, this can make their first experiences within a setting more difficult. Therefore it is important that practitioners find out information for themselves before sharing with the children, this can be done through websites, particularly for schools, brochures, prospectus or leaflets about certain procedures, talking to other people who may have already been through the same transition, e.g. older siblings. Or possible letters and phone calls where you can directly find out about certain enquiries you or the children may have. By doing this you can successfully answer childrens questions and support them and hopefully they will then feel reassured about the change. Working in partnership with parents is crucial for a child to succeed in calmly changing settings. This is because we can only do our best for the children in our care if we involve their parents and families. We need to listen to what parents can tell us about their children and accept that as their childs main carer they hold a lot information, practitioners could use to help support the child. Firstly, children may confide in their parents/carers about things troubling them linked with the transition, and whilst parents may not have the answers, practitioners may be able to help, therefore it is essential that communication between the two is continuous. There are many other ways to help children communicate their expectations and fears, some more subtle than others. For example, Role play, using an object or toy, drawing, changing activities and promoting the development of self-help skills. One way to encourage children to talk about their worries or questions, is bringing an object or toy, for example using a teddy, explaining that he is going through a transition just like the children and asking them what they think the teddy may be worried about. This strategy often brings up their subconscious thoughts. Using drawing activities can also be helpful, as you could ask them to draw scenarios they predict will happen at the new setting. Changing activities and promoting self help skills is particularly important, if the child is moving in education, as they will have to be more independent, have the ability organise themselves, particularly if they are in charge of their own lunch money, or transport, and need to be responsible for their own possessions. Helping them to prepare for practical activities, like getting a bus on their own, will give them confidence as they feel more grown up and independent, although in this case it important that the child is given accurate information so they know what to expect. C1 – A lot of childcare settings have modelled their techniques after Vygotskys principles, allowing children to have a supportive learning environment and empowering them to develop their personal strengths. Experiences that students have at school contribute to learning both inside and outside of the classroom. Vygotsky says that children need to be taught using structured education where a teacher can give clear instructions to help children learn as well as social interaction between children. Vygotskys theory suggests that there are three ways in which children learn; firstly, imitative learning, where the child copies the actions of others; Instructed learning comes second, where a child acts out what the teacher tells them to do and they learn through activities, and; the third is collaborative learning. Collaborative learning happens when a group of children work together in order to achieve a specific goal which helps them as they are working to understand each other. Teachers and carers, want to get the most from students, challenging them to reach their highest potential and once they do they will feel confident in their own abilities and have a higher self-esteem. Vygotskys belief that social interaction leads not only to easier learning for the child, but that it actually changes a childs thoughts and behaviours. Vygotsky believed that exposing children to various cultures meant that they would be more knowledgeable about the world and themselves. Learning through this means that children develop their own self-worth as they will evaluate how much knowledge they can put forward into a group and how helpful they are. The more experiences that a child has, the more about other people and cultures they find out, and the more they learn the more independent they should become as experiences such as these will help them to form their perceptions of the world which all leads to children feeling independent and therefore empowered. B1 An equal opportunities policy means as a practitioner you have a duty to ensure that children are valued and not discriminated against either by adults or by other children. Equality of opportunity means ensuring children in a setting’s care are seen as being individual and special. However, this does not mean treating all children exactly the same as some children may need more adult help and support than others or even special equipment to undertake and participate in activities. Equality of opportunity means ensuring that children are equally valued and given the same opportunities to fulfil their own potential.

Thursday, October 3, 2019

Characterising the Atmosphere of Proxima B

Characterising the Atmosphere of Proxima B 1.Intro As of April 2016, 582 extrasolar planets have been discovered (NASA) using Doppler spectroscopy, a method for detecting extrasolar planets by deducing their radial velocity from the Doppler shifts in the spectrum of the planets parent star. Using this method, Anglada-Escude et al (2016) recent observations have revealed a 1.3 Earth mass planet orbiting the red dwarf Proxima Centauri. Although Earth-like planets arent uncommon, the recent discovery of Proxima b is particularly exciting as at a distance of 1.3 parsecs it is our closest potentially habitable star. Where previous studies were stunted by the distance of the host star to the Earth, Proxima b may within reach of Earth and space based telescopes giving us the ability to better judge its characteristics. While Proxima b is in the goldilocks zone, meaning it has potential to have water and perhaps even life, it is subject to intense radiation and solar wind. The habitability of Proxima Centauri b and Prospects for characterising the atmosphere of Proxima Centauri b question whether Proxima has an atmosphere, with the primary focus being whether Proxima b can maintain liquid water on its surface. The former does this by estimating the current high-energy irradiance of the planet and show that the orbit is likely to be in either a synchronous or 3:2 spin-orbit resonance. The latter article considers measuring the variation in thermal emission with orbital phase as a method for characterizing Proxima bs atmosphere. 2. The habitability of Proxima Centauri b 2.1 SummaryIn this paper the authors work through a number of factors that could affect the potential habitability of Proxima b. While noting there is a surplus of Earth like planets (Kepler), the authors need question whether Proxima lies within the Habitable Zone, where a stellar flux is low enough to maintain surface water but high enough to maintain the planetary surface as defined by Kasting et al. Due to a stellar input of ~65% than of the Earth Proxima b lies within these limits. High Energy IrradiationHigh-energy emissions including X-rays through to far-UV (FUV) and particle winds are known to influence atmospheres of rocky planets. A particular issue when estimating the XUV fluxes is that Proxima is a flare star (haish et 1983) meaning its HE emissions can vary significantly. The work in the paper was built from X-ray emission observations via ROSAT and XMM that report log LX = 27:2 erg sà ´Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€š ¬1 g and LX = 27:4 erg sà ´Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€š ¬1 respectively (Haish 1999). To generalise the overall dose on the planetary atmosphere, the authors consider the average XUV luminosity over an extended timescale while accounting for flare variation. Using XMM-Newton observations, the strongest flare has an energy of about 210^31 erg. CN Leo has a similar X-Ray luminosity and thus can be used to model flare distribution for Proxima. Audard el state a power law with the form N(> E) = 3:7 _ 1037Eà ´Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€š ¬Ã¢â€š ¬1:2, where N is the number of flares per day, and E is the total (integrated) flare energy in erg . This shows CN Leo has flares with energies greater than about 2 _ 1031 erg over a timescale of 1 day.This is found to be in agreement with the XMM-data set, consolidating this is a reliable representative of the daily flux. Thus giving (between 0.65 and 3.8nm) a time integrated average flux of 87 ergss_1cm^-2 . To account for more energetic flares a calculated extra 22 ergs s^-1 cm^-2 is added, totalling at 109 erg s^-1cm^-2 . Flux estimates (including flare contribution) were calculated over a range of wavelengths, as listed below: ROSAT observations for the 3.8nm to 10nm range produced an X-Ray dose of 163 erg s^1 cm^2 EUVE spectrum for the extreme UV 10nm to 40nm range produced a flux value of 111 ergs^1cm2 FUSE observations for the far UV 92-118nm range produced a flux value of 20 egs HST/STIS for the 118-170nm range produced a flux value of 130 ergs Therefore between 0.6 and 118nm, the total integrated flux today that is a fair representative of HE radiation on the atmosphere of Proxima b is of 307ergs^1. For comparison purposes, the XUV flux at Earth is calculated to be 5.1 ergs, showing Proxima b to receive 60 times more XUV flux. This data is illustrated in fig. -Probability of capture: The authors remark on the poor parameterizations of previous work on tidal dissipation of rocky planets (Darwin 1880, love 1909, goldreich 1963), their primary issue being models would always predict an equilibrium rotation rate where tidal torque would vanish. The authors use the Andrade model as tailored by Efromsky 2012 and Eq 10 of Marakov 2012. The Andrade time was set to be equal to the Maxwell time of tm=500yr for simplicity. The results for 3:2 resonance capture probability are shown in fig. Curve a) indicates where tidal torque at the lower boundary of the separatrix is negative and greater than the maximum restoring torque. b) indicates tidal torque at the lower boundary of the separatrix is positive and (c) indicates where maximal tidal torque inside the resonance is greater than the maximum triaxial torque. Regions above (c) and/or (b) (white regions) leads to certain capture due to tidal torque, whereas below (c) and (a) (black region) capture is impossible as triaxial torque is too weak. The implication for climate would be that liquid water is possible depending on the rotation. If the planets orbital eccentricity is 0.06 it is likely Proxima will have a tropical belt. -water loss It is undeniable how estimates of volatile loss are poorly constrained, due to the lack of key data e.g. evolution of atmospheric composition, stellar wind properties, photochemistry of the upper atmosphere etc. The authors take a moment to discuss an alternative approach for determining Proxima bs volatile loss: Comparing Earths early development with Proxima bs. By considering how Earth built by a multitude of moon size protoplanets across 10Myr, the authors argue the XUV irradiation and stellar wind experience on proto-Earth is comparable to that of Proxima b. lamer et al modelled volatile losses of early Earth showing significant loss caused by hydrodynamic escape of hydrogen and strong stellar wind exposure. Due to the fact the runaway phase of Proxima is only longer than the Earths by a small factor 12 um. Finally, to determine how tightly the albedo and heat redistribution can be constrained, an MCMC fit was trailed on the simulated LRS spectrum from Fig 2 using the emcee package (Foreman-Mackey et al) The fit was run with redistribution, F, and albedo, A, as free parameters, from the fit one can measure F=0.07 and albedo A=0.13 to be well constrained. The authors conclude that a MIRI phase curve is sufficient means to determine the existence of an atmosphere on Proxima b. A then turn their attention to the feasibility of detecting an ozone absorption feature from Proxima b at 10um. Key motivation being this is a prominent feature of Earths IR emission spectrum and acts a potential evidence of present life. Bond albedo was set to A=0.3 to match Earths and an isothermal temperature arrangement is assumed. Using a modelling calculated by Rugheimer, that assumes an Earth-like atmospheric composition irradiated by a GJ 1214b-like star, it is noted that the ozone feature does not vary with planet orbital phase but is detectable from a very high signal-to-noise spectrum. The predicted feature amplitude was less than 1ppm. To illustrate how much observation time would be required to detect said feature, fig shows a simulated spectrum co-added from 60 days. The absorption feature at 9.8um corresponds to an ozone band and the dip at 8 is due to methane. 3.2 Implication/ImportanceA major concern would be that detecting modulations with JWST would be extremely challenging due to Proxima Centauri s stellar variability and flares. To estimate how feasible it would be to detect Proxima bs thermal emission, the JWST Exposure Time Calculator (ETC) was used to estimate signal-to-noise ratios for MIRI observations of Proxima Cen. Using a model spectrum, the ETC produced the expected count rate, which also correlated with the S/N predictions from Cowan et al. Although it feeds back good results, the paper highlights the need to test the precision of the MIRI detector. A general issue with this paper is calculations are simply based on possible observations with the James Webb Space Telescope, as opposed to actual recorded data. Realistically, conclusions drawn about phase variation for Proxima arent definitive, though the paper shows potential of the MIRI could do and show. Other recent paper including à ¢Ã¢â€š ¬Ã‚ ¦.., have a general agreement that the JWST could be used to infer exoplanets rotation periods and dissipation rates. In theory, measurement using the MIRI (which covers the wavelength range of 5 to 28 microns) at different wavelengths could be used to find atmospheric signatures, constrain the radius, the albedo and the inclination of Proxima b, as well as its rotation. This paper consolidates this idea. 3.3 Assessment In the introduction many issues that could affect Proxima bs atmosphere are mentioned, for example Proxima bs evolutionary history, but these topics werent covered in the body of the article. The introduction also states three methods available to characterize the planets atmosphere. The last (measure variation in thermal emission with orbital phase) is the focus of this paper, however the first two (directly image the planet, measure variations in reflected starlight with orbital phase) were perhaps unreasonably undiscussed. The quality of the results is difficult to assess, on the one hand an abundance of assumptions were used, to the extent that all of Section Five of this paper lists assumptions about the planetary system used in the their analysis. In many cases decisions were poorly explained. For example an albedo of 0.1 is used in the climate model while commenting Proxima bs atmosphere would likely have a higher albedo (perhaps 0. Like Earths), however dont they elaborate on why they settled with 0.1. On the other hand many of the assumptions were heavily based on previous work by a variety of researchers. The need for atmosphere case with moderate distribution F=0.35 was driven by a plethora of research ((e.g., Joshi et al. 1997; Merlis Schneider 2010; Heng et al. 2011a, 2011b; Pierrehumbert 2011; Selsis et al. 2011; Leconte et al. 2013; Yang et al. 2013, 2014; Koll Abbot 2015, 2016; Turbet et al. 2016).) which have shown how the presence of an atmosphere can reduce the amplitude of IR phase v ariation by a factor two or more. This made decisions feel more reliable and justified. Yet, without having read referenced work, certain aspects were hard to follow. Some of their most significant work on simulated spectrum is noted to be built upon the work of selsis et al, however there is no indication of what work Sel actually conducted. The paper in general couldve done with a more substantial amount of explanation for this made for a frustrating read. 4. Comparison In terms of writing style, It is apparent anglada had done a more extensive amount of research, Work is important as it highlight the value of using a combination of space and ground telescopes and In terms of research, both papers take a focus on the effects of different eccentricities on a tidally locked planet and its atmosphere. K considered this when creating a climate model and simulated a measurement of the thermal phase variation whereas anglada deduced it is likely Proxima is in a 3:2 rotation and considered the implication of the HE radiation Proxima b would receive. Generally, the authors draw the same conclusion, that Proxima b could have an atmosphere, perhaps capable of supporting life. In the case of no heat redistribution or having synchronous rotation, Proxima b having an atmosphere is improbable. In the case or heat redistribution or asynchronous rotation, one could infer that an atmosphere or ocean is present. Theres a consensus that defining planet habitability is not straightforward, there are vast limitations on calculations that can be done and any modelling is not strongly representative of Proxima bs characteristics. Both papers also make use of modelling Earths past and current state as a forecast for Proxima bs development. Using the Earths past to give us more information to further determine Proxima bs atmosphere and potential habitability was fairly clever and intuitive concept. Future work, perhaps after the launch of the JWST, could consider this concept in more detail for a more well-rounded understanding of Proxima bs characteristics.In conclusion, both papers were particularly insightful, encourage future missions similar to Kepler, and will hopefully drive new research.

Wednesday, October 2, 2019

God and Sin in Joseph Conrads Heart of Darkness :: Heart Darkness essays

God and Sin in Heart of Darkness A long debated issue that has plagued human beings since the fall of man is what leads people to commit evil actions and whether evil is inherent in all people. In the literary work of Joseph Conrad's Heart of Darkness, Marlow grapples with those two similar issues. They way in which Charlie Marlow, the protagonist and skipper, goes about determining the answers are by observing his and other people's goals and motivations throughout his voyage of discovery and self-enlightenment in the Congo of Africa. In the novel Heart of Darkness Joseph Conrad seems to be suggesting that the environment pushes people to their extremes, so they commit evil actions. I agree with this idea because in the Bible it says; "1 Corinthians 15:33, ...bad company corrupts good character." Anybody can look around and see that the world is evil. You may see people like politicians doing good for the community on the news, but you know that they are truly looking out for their own self-benefit, more money and publicity. Or even in the novel where it tells about Kurtz having the most successful ivory station in Africa, the way in which he achieved this is by raiding other tribes of their possessions. The Bible states that in "1 John 2:16, For the world offers only the lust for physical pleasure, the lust for everything we see, and pride in our possessions. These are not from the Father. They are from this evil world." There are several cases of people having mental breakdowns because of stress from the world's imperfectness. This mental collapse sometimes results in them attempting to, or actually murdering others, or even committing suicide. In "Jeremiah 17:9, The Heart is more deceitful that all else and is desperately sick; Who can understand it?" This verse gives proof that our hearts are sick from the evil in them, which corrupts good judgment and self-restraint. For another example the character Kurtz, the owner of the inner station, which is the most successful station, turned his back on his European roots. Kurtz became a god to the natives, and killed people who displeased him. Evidently, one has to admit, whether or not they believe in God, that the world is evil, corrupt, and man is prone to react abnormally to a difference of environment.

War :: essays research papers fc

The ground that was once the place of many crucifixions is once again being covered in blood. In Jerusalem, the year is 637AD, and the world is about to witness the beginning of its own corruption. Jerusalem is the most holy of all cities in the world; it is where the Christians believe Jesus was crucified then buried and the place where Muslims believe Muhammad, the founder of Islam, ascended to heaven in company of the angel Gabriel (Wilkins 97). This place of sanctity, important to all men who believe in a higher power, is the only place on Earth that will never hold peace. The city is being surrounded by a massive army of Arab descendants, an army of the Islam religion ready gain the city unofficially under Christian control. After a year of holding out, Sophronius, the Christian bishop of Jerusalem, is forced to surrender his city. The leader of the invading force, Caliph Umar, who held the title â€Å"Commander of the Faithful† is not there to take the city to destroy C hristianity but to save the city from total disregard of its holiness with Islam. This battle of just one year is the very beginning of what will soon be a 30-year war named the Crusades; however, in truth the Crusades will never truly end. â€Å"Glory be to Islam who took the city of Jerusalem,† or so they thought. The first Crusade began in 1076 as the Muslim Turks invaded the city and took over. The Turks shunned Christian pilgrims who visited the holy land, making a holy war between Christians and Muslims. From all over Europe great nobles, clergy, and peasants began preparing for the trip to fight for Jerusalem. Over the next 30 years, Christians and Muslims made a ping pong game out of Jerusalem. The whole Eastern Hemisphere was now involved in the long, overdrawn Crusades. It had long passed the point of being a political crusade to being the People’s Crusades (Child 16-44). War is the one thing that people try to prevent; however, every generation since the wri tten time of man, people have found themselves fighting for something they believe in.   Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  Ã‚  War is a state of usually open and declared armed hostile conflict between two or more political units; it is usually fought by a militia but can and has been fought by civilians (â€Å"War†). Sometimes a war can turn into total war; this involves everybody and everything; a war in which countries or nations use all of their resources to destroy another organized country’s or nation’s ability to engage in war.

Tuesday, October 1, 2019

Health Paper-Hypertension Essay

Hypertension also known as high blood pressure is a common condition in which the force of the blood against your artery walls is high enough that it may eventually cause health problems, such as heart disease. Blood pressure is determined by the amount of blood your heart pumps and the amount of resistance to blood flow in your arteries. The more blood your heart pumps and the narrower your arteries, the higher your blood pressure. High blood pressure is the leading cause of stroke and a major cause of heart attack. In the U.S alone, more than 30% of American adults have high blood pressure. Hypertension is often called the â€Å"the silent killer† because it rarely caauses symptoms, even as it inflicts serious damage to the body. You can have high blood pressure for years without any symptoms. If your blood pressure is uncontrolled it can increase your risk of serious health problems, including heart attack and stroke. High blood pressure develops over many years, and it affects nearly everyone eventually. Although high blood pressure is most common in adults, children may be at risk also. For some children, high blood pressure is caused by problems with the kidneys or heart. But for a growing number of kids, poor lifestyle habits, such as an unhealthy diet and lack of exercise contribute to high blood pressure. Most people with high blood pressure have no signs or symptoms, even if blood pressure readings reach dangerously high levels. Although a few people with early stage high blood pressure may have dull headaches, dizzy spells or a few more nosebleeds than normal, these signs and symptoms typically don’t occur until high blood pressure has reached a severe, even life threatening stage. Thankfully, high blood pressure can be easily detected. Once you know you have it you can work with your doctor in controlling it. There are two types of high blood pressure. First, Primary (essential) hypertension. For most adults, there’s no identifiable cause of high blood pressure. This type of high blood pressure, tends to develop gradually over many years. Second, Seconday hypertension. Some people have high blood pressure caused by an underlying condition. This type of high blood pressure, tends to appear suddenly and cause higher blood pressure than does primary hypertension. Various conditions and medications can lead to secondary hypertension. High blood pressure has many risk factors including: age(the risk of high blood pressure increases as you age), race, family history, being overweight or obese(the more you weigh,the more blood you need to supply oxygen and nutrients you your tissues), not being physically active, using tobacco, using to much salt in your diet(too much salt can cause your body to retain fluid which increases blood pressure), too little potassiium in your diet, too little vitamin D in your diet, drinking alcohol, stress and certain chronic conditions. The excessive pressure on your artery walls caused by high blood pressure can damage your blood vessels, as well as organs in your body. The higher your blood pressure and the longer it goes uncontrolled, the greater the damage. High blood pressure can cause hardening and thickening of the arteries, which can lead to a heart attack, stroke or other complications. Blood pressure is measured with an inflatable arm cuff and pressure measuring gauge. A blood pressure reading, has two numbers. The first, or upper, number measures the pressure in your arteries when your heart beats which is called systolic pressure. The second, or lower, number measures the pressure in your arteries between beats which is called diastolic pressure. There are four general blood pressure measurements. Fist, normal blood pressue. Your blood pressure is normal if it’s below 120/80. However, some doctors recomment 115/75 as a better goal. Once blood pressure rises above 115/75 the risk of cardiovascular disease begins to increase. Second, prehypertension. Prehypertension is a blood pressure measurement of 120/80 to 139/89. Prehypertension tends to get worse over time. Third, Stage 1 hypertension. Stage 1 hypertension is a blood pressure reading ranging from 140/90 to 159/99. Fourth, Stage 2 hypertension. More severe hypertension, stage 2 hypertension is a blood pressure reading of 160/100 or higher. Changing your lifestyle can go a long way torward controlling high blood pressure. But sometimes lifestyle changes aren’t enough. In addition to diet and exercise, your doctor may recommend medication to lower your blood pressure. Which category of medication your doctor prescribes depends on your stage of high blood pressure and weather you also have other medical problems. It’s never too early to make healthy lifestyle changes, such as quitting smoking, eating healthy foods and becoming more physically active. These are primary lines of defense against high blood pressure and its complications. References: Choosing Health by: Lynch, Elmore, Morgan www.webmd.com www.managingmybloodpressure.com Steadmans medical dictionary 28th Edition