Why I Chose Radiology Essay Example For Students

Why I Chose Radiology Essay RadiologyHumanity, constantly learning, growing,and facing more challenges each secondof the day. Whether the challengesare mental or purely physical. We have found moreefficient, safer, and easier ways of doingthe tasks we may face. From moving cargo, tosending information via the Internet. Probably the greatest accomplishments we havemade, are in the studies of medicine/treatment. And to be specific, the study of radiology. We will write a custom essay on Why I Chose Radiology specifically for you for only $16.38 $13.9/page Order now Radiology, the process of working and viewinginside the human body without breaking the skin. By using radiantenergy, which may take the form of x rays or other types of radiation,we are able to diagnose and treat many diseases and injuries. Bothdiagnostic and therapeutic radiology involve the use of ionizing radiation( Beta, Alpha, Gamma, and x rays), with the exception of the MRI, whichuses a magnetic field rather then radiation. Radiology is classified as being eitherdiagnostic or therapeutic. Diagnostic radiology is an evaluationof the body, by means of static or dynamic images or anatomy, physiology,and alterations caused by injury or disease. A majority of thesepictures are formed by passing a low or high level of x rays through thepart of the body being examined, producing the static image on film. This image is called a radiograph or x ray picture. The image itsself may have many forms. It could be a common radiograph, such asa chest x ray; a tomograph (Greek for section), which is a radiographobtained by timing the x ray exposure to correspond with the movement ofthe x ray tube and film in opposite directions around the plane of thebody; or, finally, a computerized axial tomography (CAT or CT) scan. Which is a computer analysis of a sharply limited, thin x ray beam passedcircumferentially through an area of the body, giving the doctor of Techniciana cross-sectional image. Much like that of slicing a loaf of breadinto sections. Other images may be obtained by using ultrasoundor MRI, or by recording the activity of isotopes internally administeredand deposited in certain parts of our body. This practice is callednuclear radiology or nuclear medicine. This include such techniquesas a PET scan, or positron emission tomography, which uses patterns ofthe positron decaying to study metabolism reactions in the body. PET requiresa cyclotron as an on-site source of short-lived, positron-emitting isotopes. The isotopes are injected into the patient along with a glucose relatedcompound, and the positrons collide with the electrons in the bodyto produce photons. The photons are then tracked by a tomographicscintillation counter, and the information is processed by a computer toprovide both image and data on blood flow and metabolic processes withinbodily tissues. PET scans are particularly useful for diagnosingbrain tumor and the effects of strokes on the brain, along with variousmental illnesses. They are also used in brain research and in mapping ofbrain functions. Another form of imaging is ultrasound. Ultrasound, which uses very high frequency sound, is directed into thebody. And because the tissue interferences reflect sound, doctorsare able to produce, by use of a computer, a photograph or moving imageon a television. Ultrasound has many application uses on the body,but is more commonly used in examinations of the fetus during pregnancy,because use of radiation may affect the outcome of the baby. Someother practices for ultrasound include examination of the arteries, heart,pancreas, urinary system, ovaries, brain, and spinal cord. And becausesound travels well through fluids it is a very useful technique for diagnosingcysts( which are filled with fluid), and fluid filled structures such asthe bladder. And since sound is absorbed by air and bone it is impossibleto use a ultrasound on bones or lungs. .u81e473a3ca7095e8e770f06e8d809cbc , .u81e473a3ca7095e8e770f06e8d809cbc .postImageUrl , .u81e473a3ca7095e8e770f06e8d809cbc .centered-text-area { min-height: 80px; position: relative; } .u81e473a3ca7095e8e770f06e8d809cbc , .u81e473a3ca7095e8e770f06e8d809cbc:hover , .u81e473a3ca7095e8e770f06e8d809cbc:visited , .u81e473a3ca7095e8e770f06e8d809cbc:active { border:0!important; } .u81e473a3ca7095e8e770f06e8d809cbc .clearfix:after { content: ""; display: table; clear: both; } .u81e473a3ca7095e8e770f06e8d809cbc { display: block; transition: background-color 250ms; webkit-transition: background-color 250ms; width: 100%; opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #95A5A6; } .u81e473a3ca7095e8e770f06e8d809cbc:active , .u81e473a3ca7095e8e770f06e8d809cbc:hover { opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #2C3E50; } .u81e473a3ca7095e8e770f06e8d809cbc .centered-text-area { width: 100%; position: relative ; } .u81e473a3ca7095e8e770f06e8d809cbc .ctaText { border-bottom: 0 solid #fff; color: #2980B9; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0; padding: 0; text-decoration: underline; } .u81e473a3ca7095e8e770f06e8d809cbc .postTitle { color: #FFFFFF; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 600; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 100%; } .u81e473a3ca7095e8e770f06e8d809cbc .ctaButton { background-color: #7F8C8D!important; color: #2980B9; border: none; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: none; font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 26px; moz-border-radius: 3px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-shadow: none; width: 80px; min-height: 80px; background: url(https://artscolumbia.org/wp-content/plugins/intelly-related-posts/assets/images/simple-arrow.png)no-repeat; position: absolute; right: 0; top: 0; } .u81e473a3ca7095e8e770f06e8d809cbc:hover .ctaButton { background-color: #34495E!important; } .u81e473a3ca7095e8e770f06e8d809cbc .centered-text { display: table; height: 80px; padding-left : 18px; top: 0; } .u81e473a3ca7095e8e770f06e8d809cbc .u81e473a3ca7095e8e770f06e8d809cbc-content { display: table-cell; margin: 0; padding: 0; padding-right: 108px; position: relative; vertical-align: middle; width: 100%; } .u81e473a3ca7095e8e770f06e8d809cbc:after { content: ""; display: block; clear: both; } READ: Love Is Not All EssayThe sound waves are produced by a randomoscillating crystal, and are inaudible to humans. A instrument calleda transducer is used to transmit the sound waves and receive the echoes. The transducer must be in close contact with the skin, and a jelly likesubstance is used to improve the quality of the transmission. And last of the diagnostic imaging toolsis the MRI. MRI, which stands for Magnetic Resonance Imaging. Was a technique developed in the 1950s by Felix Bloch, and is the mostversatile, powerful, and sensitive tool in use. The process of MRIwas originally called NRI (Nuclear Resonance Imaging), but was found tobe to confusing due to the fact that MRIs dont use radioactivity andionizing radiation. The MRI generates a very powerful electromagneticfield, which allows the radiologist to generate thin-section images ofany part of the body. Also it can take these images from any directionor angle, and is done without and surgical invasion. Another plusside to the MRI is The time it take to perform, where as a CAT scan maytake 30-60 min. A MRI may only take 15 minutes max. TheMRI also creates maps of biochemical compounds within a cross-sectionof the body. These maps give basic biomedical and anatomical informationthat provides new knowledge and may allow early diagnosis of many diseases. The MRI is possible in the human bodybecause our bodies are filled with small biological magnets, the mostabundant and responsive of these are the protons (in the nucleus of thehydrogen atom). The principal of the MRI, utilizes the random distributionof protons, which have basic magnetic properties. Once the patientis placed in the cylindrical magnet, the diagnosis process follows 3 steps. First, MRI creates a steady state of magnetism in the body, that is 30,000time greater then that of the earths own magnetic field. The rateof absorption in the body is measure in megahertz and gigahertz ranges. Then MRI stimulates the body with radio waves to change the steady-stateorientation of the hydrogen protons. It then Stops the radio wavesand listens to the bodies electromagnetic transmissions at the selectedfrequency. The transmitted signal is used to create images much likethose of the CAT scans, but are far more accurate and much easier to interpret. In current practice, the MRI is preferredfor diagnosing most diseases of the brain and central nervous system. And is the best diagnostic technique we know. Its images, information,and other vital information surpass that of its relatives the CAT scans,x rays, PET scans, etc. The MRI has yet another distinguishing featureit can determine between soft tissue in both normal and diseased states. The only drawback to the MRI is that is relatively expensive (~$2,000 dollarssession), but that may not be so bad when you account for all the moneyand time you save by getting treatment and diagnosis sooner. Becausethe MRI uses no radiation what-so-ever the only risk it presents is topeople who have one or more of the following: A pacemaker, neurostimulator,implanted electrodes, pumps, or electrical devices, diabetic insulin pumps,aneurysm clips, shunt, seizures, heart bypass surgery, abdominal injuries,eye prosthesis, hearing aid, dentures, middle ear prosthesis, metal mesh,wire sutures, war injuries or gunshot wounds, other known metal fragmentsin head, eye, or body, known possible pregnancy, IUDs, penile prosthesis,joint or limb replacement, fractured bones treated with metal rods, plates,pins, screws, nails, or clips, any other for of prosthesis, permanent eyeliner, wig, or make-up with metallic fragments. Many organs that may not be visible byroutine radiographic methods may become visible by ingesting, installing,injecting, or inhalation of substances. These substances are calledcontrast media, which are impenetrable by radiation. Exams involvinga contrast include the upper intestine, the colon, a arthrogram ( a injectioninto a joint), myelogram ( an injection into the spinal canal), and anangiogram ( a injection of the contrast into an artery, vein, or lymphvessel). These procedures may be observed while the they are takingplace, by fluoroscopy. Which is a movable, radiation sensitive screen. .uace83b61e079e01987eacc4e071d4519 , .uace83b61e079e01987eacc4e071d4519 .postImageUrl , .uace83b61e079e01987eacc4e071d4519 .centered-text-area { min-height: 80px; position: relative; } .uace83b61e079e01987eacc4e071d4519 , .uace83b61e079e01987eacc4e071d4519:hover , .uace83b61e079e01987eacc4e071d4519:visited , .uace83b61e079e01987eacc4e071d4519:active { border:0!important; } .uace83b61e079e01987eacc4e071d4519 .clearfix:after { content: ""; display: table; clear: both; } .uace83b61e079e01987eacc4e071d4519 { display: block; transition: background-color 250ms; webkit-transition: background-color 250ms; width: 100%; opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #95A5A6; } .uace83b61e079e01987eacc4e071d4519:active , .uace83b61e079e01987eacc4e071d4519:hover { opacity: 1; transition: opacity 250ms; webkit-transition: opacity 250ms; background-color: #2C3E50; } .uace83b61e079e01987eacc4e071d4519 .centered-text-area { width: 100%; position: relative ; } .uace83b61e079e01987eacc4e071d4519 .ctaText { border-bottom: 0 solid #fff; color: #2980B9; font-size: 16px; font-weight: bold; margin: 0; padding: 0; text-decoration: underline; } .uace83b61e079e01987eacc4e071d4519 .postTitle { color: #FFFFFF; font-size: 16px; font-weight: 600; margin: 0; padding: 0; width: 100%; } .uace83b61e079e01987eacc4e071d4519 .ctaButton { background-color: #7F8C8D!important; color: #2980B9; border: none; border-radius: 3px; box-shadow: none; font-size: 14px; font-weight: bold; line-height: 26px; moz-border-radius: 3px; text-align: center; text-decoration: none; text-shadow: none; width: 80px; min-height: 80px; background: url(https://artscolumbia.org/wp-content/plugins/intelly-related-posts/assets/images/simple-arrow.png)no-repeat; position: absolute; right: 0; top: 0; } .uace83b61e079e01987eacc4e071d4519:hover .ctaButton { background-color: #34495E!important; } .uace83b61e079e01987eacc4e071d4519 .centered-text { display: table; height: 80px; padding-left : 18px; top: 0; } .uace83b61e079e01987eacc4e071d4519 .uace83b61e079e01987eacc4e071d4519-content { display: table-cell; margin: 0; padding: 0; padding-right: 108px; position: relative; vertical-align: middle; width: 100%; } .uace83b61e079e01987eacc4e071d4519:after { content: ""; display: block; clear: both; } READ: Martin Luther King Jr Vs Malcolm x EssayNow That I have described static imagesand the processes used to create them let me explain dynamic images andhow they are manufactured. Dynamic images, which record movementof organs or the flow of contrast material through blood vessels or spinalcanal, may be obtained be recording the image by fluoroscopy, or by recordingon to video tape or movie film (cineradiography). Both film and thevideo tape are permanent recording media. The fluoroscopic imageon the other hand isnt. However, these images can be made permanent( film spots), and can be made at any time during the examination. The use of ionizing radiation inthe assessment of a disease is similar to the use of drugs and medicationin treatment of the disease. For the simple reason that radiographicexams should only be performed for specific medical indications and onlyon the direct request of a physician or another skilled professional. And although diagnostic radiation dose levels do have a small risk potential,no current evidence shows that properly conducted diagnostic exams haveno detectable adverse effects on our bodies. Dynamic images are usedquite frequently, but not as often as static images. As I mentioned at the beginning of my report,there are 2 sections of radiology. And since I just discussed diagnosticradiology, it is time to explain a little about therapeutic radiology. Therapeutic Radiology is used in the treatment of malignant diseases withionizing radiation, either alone or with drugs. This practice branchesoff from the discovery of elements that occur naturally in the late 19thcentury. Such treatment is often described in terms of energy ofthe beam being used: superficial(less then 120 Kilovolts, orthovoltage(l20 to 1000 kV), megavoltage (Greater then 1000 kV) Superficialradiation is used in treatment of diseased skin, eye, or other parts ofthe bodies surface. Orthovoltage therapy has almost been completelyreplaced megavoltage(cobalt, linear accelerator, and betatron). Becauseit provides more efficient delivery of the intended dose to tumors deepwithin the body, sparing the skin and surrounding tissues as much as possible. Radiation therapy may be used alone asthe treatment of choice in most cases of cancer of the skin; in certainstages of cancers involving the cervix, uterus, breast, and prostate; andin some types of leukemia and lymphoma, particularly Hodgkins Disease. In such instances, radiation therapy is intended to effect a cure. But when is use with cancer-treatment drugs it may only pose as a reliefof symptoms. Radiation therapy is commonly used before and aftersurgical removal of certain tumors, in order to provide a better chanceof cure. The idea of radiation therapy is that normaltissues have a greater ability to recover from the effects of the radiationmore so then tumor and tumor cells. Thus, a radiation dose sufficientto destroy tumor cells will only temporally injure adjacent normal cell. And if the ability of normal tissue to recover from a given amount of radiationis known to be the same as or less then that of the cancer tissues, thetumor is described as being radio-resistant. Such forms of therapyare not considered an appropriate form of treatment. Well, as you can see radiology is a fieldof study that deserves our uttermost attention. For the future ofhumanity may one day totally rely on these processes.

buy custom Americanization essay

buy custom Americanization essay The phrase "Americanization" has a different meaning to various people. Some argue it is an invasion of American values, cultures and violence that in most cases is depicted and overestimated in Hollywood movies. Others argue it is the cultural, political economic and social domination of the United States which is the world superpower. According to Friedman Thomas, (1998) Americanization is a word used outside the United States to describe the impact and influence of the U.S on the culture, politics, business practices and technology of other countries. This expression has been used since the early 1900. Within the United States this phrase often refers to the procedure of acculturation by settlers to American customs. Columnists at times give the phrase Americanization" a negative implication since they see it as a negative broad American influence in several countries, and may fear the fear the trouncing of local traditions and customs (Ron 2001). America population has been increasing and it needed more land. American settlers started migrating past Appalachian Mountains and at this point they were getting close to river Mississippi (Zachary Pascal, 2000). People started immigrating to America and brought diverse cultures with them. These distinct cultures made a mix bowl of diverse cultures that eventually became American. This was evident in features such as language and communication. English language was what was initially brought by the initial colonists, but other people coming from Scotland, Ireland and other European countries. These distinct languages incorporated English along with other words from these new cultures. In general the term Americanization in most of the time no more than a supposition concerning the foundation ofcultural morals and values (language, clothing and food) that mostly comes from United States which may be wrong. It is applied arbitrarily within other countries media to tag collection of factors which are seen to be a threat to the national personality. This derogatory use of Americanization sees countries outside the United States to be adopting cultural values and social practices that are derived from the United States. Ron (2001) states that television has, without any uncertainty, gained more people awareness from Americanization critics on media globalization more than any other more than any sphere e.g. language and fashion. According to Zachary Pascal (2000) the early 1970s experienced the climax in the Americanization of popular culture which was calculated by the percentage of American stuff transmitted to the world. Most forecaster analysiss now are in agreement that most of the worlds television scheduled is taken upon with imports, with United States controlling most of the commercial channels and Britain programs having the huge mass of overseas material broadcast by ACB (Zachary Pascal 2000). In what is almost certainly the most methodical comparison of worldwide flows, for instance Tapio Varis in its analysis reported that Australia has declined from 57% of imported programmes from united states to 40% in 1993, however the fraction of imported programs at the key time was to some extent higher than 45. United States programs do certainly lead the world in supplying and even dominating in many of the world countries television programs; they are often the most common programs where watchers have a list of options of produced material from which to choose. Over the past decades, capitalism in America has quickly taken over the entire universe. Even in the main communists countries of Russia and china American culture has greatly invaded. In china today the youth prefer watching American Dream Park which has a lot of American culture attraction rather than watching Chinese films, Russia has also been having a share of the American culture in many of its day to day activities (Schlender Brent 2004). Canada is also having great problems with Americanization as many of United Nations companies are now in control of the Canadian industry; this has caused many of the people to wonder for how long United States will dominate Canada markets. This goes without the question of why Americanization is evident in todays society. Despite this recent course in American culture all over the world, a few nations such as Germany and France are making essentials strategies to slow down Americanization (Snyder Tim, 1999). By increasing tariffs and taxes on foreign investors and companies, these companies are making it difficult for American companies profit hugely abroad. Also in Israel, a cultural revolt is now taking place. For example Israeli government, in an effort to decrease Americanization, it has made it mandatory for the every radio station to have a schedule in which it can play Hebrew songs. These are only the exemptions to the regulation of American globalization, although Americanization is currently in a complete swing and sees no end in nearby future, mainly because many Americans identify it as a huge achievement. An appealing fact is that the America has its own cultural, it should also be renowned that the US has similarly absorbed different traditions and cultures and traditions. The idea of Americanization should not be overlooked but rather incorporated as an ingredient of the cultural assimilation of the globe leading towards globalization (Snyder Tim, 1999). 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Quotes From Quaker and Abolitionist Lucretia Mott

Quotes From Quaker and Abolitionist Lucretia Mott Lucretia Mott, a Quaker, was known as an antislavery advocate and womens rights activist. Many of her quotes express the feminism, antiracism, and religious sentiments that she became famous for. Lucretia Mott Quotes on Womens Rights The world has never yet seen a truly great and virtuous nation because, in the degradation of women, the very fountains of life are poisoned at their source. Let her [woman] receive encouragement for the proper cultivation of all her powers, so that she may enter profitably into the active business of life. I grew up so thoroughly imbued with womens rights that it was the most important question of my life from a very early day. It is not Christianity, but priestcraft that has subjected woman as we find her. On Morality I have no idea of submitting tamely to injustice inflicted either on me or on the slave. I will oppose it with all the moral powers with which I am endowed. I am no advocate of passivity. If our principles are right, why should we be cowards? Liberty is not less a blessing, because oppression has so long darkened the mind that it can not appreciate it. My conviction led me to adhere to the sufficiency of the light within us, resting on truth for authority, not on authority for truth. We too often bind ourselves by authorities rather than by the truth. On Christianity It is time that Christians were judged more by their likeness to Christ than their notions of Christ. Were this sentiment generally admitted we should not see such tenacious adherence to what men deem the opinions and doctrines of Christ while at the same time in every day practice is exhibited anything but a likeness to Christ. The cause of peace has had my share of efforts, taking the ultra non-resistance ground - that a Christian cannot consistently uphold, and actively support, a government based on the sword, or whose ultimate resort is to the destroying weapons. Quotes About Lucretia Mott Ralph Waldo Emerson She brings domesticity and common sense, and that propriety which every man loves, directly into this hurly-burly, and makes every bully ashamed. Her courage is no merit, one almost says, where triumph is so sure. Elizabeth Cady Stanton Having known Lucretia Mott, not only in the flush of life, when all her faculties were at their zenith but in the repose of advanced age, her withdrawal from our midst seems as natural and as beautiful as the changing foliage of some grand oak from the spring-time to the autumn.

5ELW Employment Law Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 3000 words

5ELW Employment Law - Assignment Example sation should have taken to comply with UK law and procedure as well as recommend the most appropriate course of action that can be taken after the dismissal. According to UK Employment Law, the circumstances surrounding a dismissal will determine whether is fair or unfair and the procedure employers must follow when dismissing employees depends on the date of the dismissal (BIS, 2013). To comply with the UK law, the employer should follow the procedures stipulated by the Advisory, Conciliation and Arbitration Service (Acas) Code of Practice on disciplinary and grievance procedures. In Paul’s case, although the employer may have had justified grounds to dismiss him, the procedures were not followed from various perspectives. Most significantly, he was not given notice or allowed a disciplinary hearing. The requirements for fair dismissal include the capability (or lack of) the employee to work, their conduct, redundancy and circumstances that prevent them from conducting their job legally, such as the loss of a driving license by a driver. To comply with the UK law and specifically the Acas Code, the employer and the employee must have acted consistently whereby necessary investigations needed to be carried out to establish the case’s facts. Legally, he could have been dismissed without notice if he was in his first month of employment, if his contract indicated so or if he had conducted himself in a manner that undermined the confidence and trust of the employer. However, Paul had worked at the department store for four years on a full-time basis yet he was instantaneously dismissed, which means the employer did not comply with UK law. It is necessary that the dismissal decision and procedure are fair even in cases where the employer has a justifiable reason for the dismissal. To comply, the first step should have been sending a letter that pointed out the problem and an indication of the consideration for dismissal or disciplinary action (Citizens Advice,

Investigate difference of the Scape organisation and the Colchester Assignment

Investigate difference of the Scape organisation and the Colchester Institute - Assignment Example But it is not rigid just like the typical company. Because it caters to student’s it is less formal. Organizationally, it also partners with architectural firm to build good design such as Stephen Marshall Architects. Scape is a nice place. They promote the culture of camaraderie. It is also student oriented. Meaning, it is designed for students as well as priced for students. They promote caring and good accommodation. It is also creative. It has common places like receiving area, in some areas balcohny so it promote friendship among the tenants. In a way it is an extension of a school of university. Scape’s vision and mission statement is expressed on its core belief â€Å"that developing long-term relationships engenders a spirit of sharing and partnership, delivering exceptional results. Managing the entire life cycle of each asset to ensure the best levels of service for students, Scape plays a vital role in the key elements of Design, Build, Operate and Finance† (Scapeliving.com). Colchester Institute on the other hand calls their vision and mission â€Å"Strategic ambitions† and is centered more on vocational learning that would be later used in employment. For example â€Å"To become a  community nucleus  responding to local need and establishing  productive partnershipswith employers, key community leaders, and local providers of other educational and non-educational services to help drive  economic development† and â€Å"to create an organisational culture which recognises and develops the  skills, expertise  and  commitmentof  College staff, as reflected in today’s most effective workplaces†

State Funding for California State University

State Funding for California State University Sherry Pickering The state legislators in California play a key role in the funding for the California State University (university). They may also impose new reporting requirements, change the laws and set new rules that directly affect the university at any time. As a university administrator the system-wide conferences that I attend typically feature a speaker from the California State Universitys advocacy team whom will outline the political landscape and discuss content and status of current legislation. A key point that has routinely been made in these presentations in the last several years is that term limits are detrimental to the university. Specifically we are told that term limits mean that the state legislators are constantly campaigning so they cannot be bothered with key issues that are important to the university or, if theyve just entered office, they are too new to be of much help. This leads to the question, are term limited state legislators more or less likely to be responsive to the requests of bureaucratic interests? Term limits were enacted for the California state legislature with the passage of proposition 140 in 1990. â€Å"The law limited state Assembly members to three two-year terms and state senators to two four-year terms.† (California_Term_Limits,_Proposition_140_(1990), 2015) It also imposed â€Å"a lifelong ban against seeking the same office once a member† was termed out and prevented â€Å"new legislators from earning pension benefits.† (California_Term_Limits,_Proposition_140_(1990), 2015) California was among the first in a series of states to adopt term limits. This trend begun in the 1980s and continued throughout the 1990s to the early 2000s that ended with to up to 21 states adopting some term limits. Six states have since repealed these changes in the wake of a 1995 ruling that congressional term limits were unconstitutional, in that states could not place limits on a federal office. The push for term limits in the 1990s seemed to be a grassroots effort. Throughout the 1980s in California incumbents seemed to be impossible to unseat. This was in part due to advantages of name recognition enjoyed by all incumbents. However that effect was reinforced by several redistricting efforts that made it increasingly difficult for the predominantly Democratic members to be challenged by Republicans. These results for the legislative bodies were in stark contrast to the results in the three gubernatorial contests that occurred during this period where a Republican was chosen. The proposition was backed by Republicans whom were interested in the passage of these laws in two way. Ideologically Republicans are in favor of a more limited government. Term limits are generally seen as a way to weaken a legislative body which is alternately used as an argument for or against term limits laws. More importantly in the early 1990s Republicans were in favor of term limits as a way to create more competitive races for seats. Given the make-up of the legislative membership it seemed that the Republicans stood to gain the most with the passage of term limits. Main stakeholders involved with this issue are state legislators. In California there are two legislative bodies, the state assembly and the state senate. Unlike other states such as Texas where legislative appointments are part-time, California legislators have a full time or professional appointment. In the assembly there are 80 members while in the state senate there are 40 members. While several political parties exist, these legislative bodies only have representatives from the Democrat and Republican parties. Presently Democrats hold a majority of the seats in both the assembly and senate. The staffs of these legislative bodies represent another group that would be deeply interested in this issue. This staff is made up of partisan staff, usually represented by those that work for individual legislators, and non-partisan staff such as those that work for the administrative arm of these bodies. For example, non-partisan staffers in the Legislative Analyst’s Office provide analysis for each bill presented in each house. While the non-partisan staff may seem to have more secure positions regardless of the passage of term limits they would be impacted by an increase or decrease in the amount of bills generated by the legislators. Lobbyists and special interests have a stake in the outcomes wrought by term limits. These lobbyists may represent bureaucratic interests like those of other state agencies such as university, prisons and health and human services or external parties such as business and issues groups. These groups would be keenly interested in how term limits have strengthened or weakened their influence on these legislative bodies. Citizens of the state play a key role in shaping law in California. In 1849 referendums or initiatives, which are changes to the state constitution or laws, were referred to the electorate for a popular vote. This law was expanded in 1911 to allow externally sponsored initiatives to be brought to vote. The initiatives process means that the voters are asked to decide if either tiny or sweeping changes to laws should be adopted. While this should result in a more direct style of government as a voter it gives the impression that the legislative bodies aren’t working to come to consensus on decisions that they should be more informed than the average voter to make. Legislators, legislative staff and lobbyists largely opposed the proposed term limits law because of the seemingly detrimental effect that it would have from each of their perspectives. Prior to term limits some legislators served in the same seat for decades. In the face of term limits these legislators had to reimagine how they could perform in office under these new rules. Legislative staff tied to a particular legislator or party faced an uncertain future where they may need to find a new job every few years. Finally, lobbyists could no longer rely on their long relationships with a particular legislator nor could they influence affiliated committees with these relationships. Beyond the rhetoric published as the term limits law was up a vote, there is ample evidence that legislators dislike these laws. For example, in the majority of the states without these laws each state’s legislative house law would have to be passed on a vote to be adopted. Yet these laws have never gained enough support. In the U.S. Congress term limits could only be imposed on senators and representatives by passing a vote in those legislative bodies, but term limits proposals have been brought to vote several times and failed to gain enough support to pass. Therefore the electorate seemed to have the most to gain from adoption of term limits. The expected positive outcomes most frequently citied during the campaign to pass the law were that term limits would lead to a more diverse, citizen legislature that represents the electorate’s interests, and balanced power the between the executive and legislative bodies. While all of these aims may not have materialized, overall likely voters in California seem to be pleased with the results in the last several years. One area where it could be argued that term limits has succeeded is related to the diversity or make up of the legislators. Supporters of the law claimed that it would create new opportunities for women and minorities to become representatives. Generally the number of women in the legislature rose statewide and adjusting for other factors â€Å"term limits opened up nine Assembly seats for women† between 1990 to 2001 (Cain Kousser, 2004). Nationwide the effect of term limits on participation rates for women seems to be virtually flat. (Institutional Change in American Politics: The Case of Term Limits, 2007) California had a long history of electing minority representatives. In the period after term limits laws went into effect minorities were elected to the state legislature in greater numbers. This was in part to seats that became available due to term limits. However, term limits removed long serving minority members such as Willie Brown. So the overall effect of term limits on the make-up of the state legislature in California did show an uptick in the election of minority legislators, specifically Latinos. (Cain Kousser, 2004) One area where term limits seems to have had no effect is on the careerism of legislators. Proponents of the term limits laws were certain that the career politicians would be phased out due to term limits and seats would become available to ‘citizen’ candidates. Instead since term limits have been put into place legislators seem to map out a series of jobs that begin in local government, rise to state legislature and go onto elected state office or back to local government. (Cain Kousser, 2004) Research found that in 1980 â€Å"the share of Senators who had been Assembly members had risen to 65 percent. By 2001, that figure rose to 90 percent.† (Cain Kousser, 2004) Legislative staff concerns about term limits came to pass in a couple of ways. With the downturn and subsequent shortfalls in the state budget non-partisan legislative staffs, namely the staff of the Legislative Analyst’s Office, were cut dramatically. The staff of the Assembly also suffered cuts related to budget shortfalls. So the staff has experienced a greater amount of work, not because of a change in the amount of legislation, but rather from a reduced number of staff to perform the work. Partisan staff also experienced a shift in their jobs in the wake of the adoption of term limits laws in California. As expected with the loss of some job security, the tenure of this staff has decreased. Along with fewer years of service the expectations of the staff in these positions has changed. For example, prior to term limits staff were expected to analyze legislation. After term limits staff must also provide recommendations with their analysis. (Robinson, 2011) An alarming outcome of term limits for the university is that it seems to have strengthened executive branch in certain ways. One key way this has materialized that directly impacts the university is that the legislature is less likely to be effective in altering the governor’s budget. Researchers observed this effect by comparing budgets for certain categories in the budget in years before term limits and after the laws went into effect where economically the state was experiencing similar circumstances. (Cain Kousser, 2004) In a less studied way this effect has been noticeable in the last few years has been on time budgets which is helpful to the university in creating more stability for the transition from one fiscal year to the next. However, this means that there have been fewer objections to the governor’s budget proposal by the legislators. For the university system the governor’s budget has fallen short of the budget requests that were submitted. Additionally, while there have been some increases for the university between the governor’s budget and the May revise that takes tax collections into account, these have only made some progress in replacing the state support that the university lost in the financial downturn. This virtual lockdown in the budget process and insistence by the Governor that tuition fees remain level over the last few years has made it difficult for the university to grow system-wide enrollment. The Governor has also expressed his view that the university should cut cost of course delivery by adopting an online model more rapidly. While this is a fine opinion to have, it does seem that his budget allocations for the university reflect an unwillingness to recognize that making such a drastic change in a large system does not happen overnight. The overall lack of legislative voices disagreeing with the Governor on these points has been very noticeable. One expected outcome of instituting term limits was that the influence of lobbyists would be diminished. This was supposed to occur because the lobbyist would have less time to develop long relationships with any one legislator so lobbyists would have less success in influencing the political process. While if this were true it could mean that the university’s lobbyist’s claims are true, there is some evidence that this outcome has not been realized. When surveyed lobbyists responded with term limits in place the influence of the Governor increased quite dramatically. Additionally, the influence for their firms specifically stayed about the same or increased slightly with the implementation of term limits. (Moncrief Thompson, 2001) In the years after the term limits were enacted under proposition 140 there were four attempts to remove or change the law. The first three attempts, a lawsuit and two ballot propositions, failed. Proposition 28 was passed in a June 2012 election. With this amendment legislators may now serve in either house in any combination of terms up to 12 years. This doubles the time that a member of the Assembly could serve under proposition 140 rules. While the effects of this recent change remain to be seen, it is possible that it will return some balance to the political process and reign in the executive branch. While I can see that the university’s lobbyists are likely working harder than they did in the past, I see no evidence that they have less influence under term limits. Given that the budget is a key issue for the university what may also be the case is that they are putting their efforts into influencing the members of the legislature that worked well under pre-term limits conditions when their efforts would be better spent demonstrating that the university system has value to the executive branch. In light of this analysis, I believe the university’s lobbying group should: Assess their current program to determine how much of their time is allocated to committee support, specific contacts with legislators and the executive branch. Then evaluate the effectiveness of the meetings with specific legislators. If this leads to more effective committee support then they should likely leave their time allocation as it is currently. However, if their meetings yield little results they should assess how that time could be better utilized to up their contact with the executive branch. It is well known that this governor is no fan of higher education; however any improvements that could be made as a result of the renewed efforts on the part of the lobbyists would be helpful. It seems likely that they are well aware of the research underpinning this analysis, but I have been surprised in the past how frequently people do not read about their own professions. So going through this assessment could do them well. Bibliography Basham, P. (2003). Defining Democracy Down: Explaining the Capaign to Repeal Term Limits. Washington D.C.: Cato Institute. Cain, B., Kousser, T. (2004). Adapting to term limits: recent experiences and new directions. San Francisco: Public Policy Institute of California. California_Term_Limits,_Proposition_140_(1990). (2015, 03 07). Retrieved from ballotpedia.org: http://ballotpedia.org/California_Term_Limits,_Proposition_140_(1990) Donovan, T., Snipp, J. (1994). Support for Legislative Term Limitations in California: Group Representation, Partisanship, and Campaign Information. The Journal of Politics, 492-501. Institutional Change in American Politics: The Case of Term Limits. (2007). Ann Arbor: University of Michigan Press. Moncrief, G., Thompson, J. (2001). On the outside Looking in: Lobbyists Perspectives on the Effects of State Legislative Term Limits. State Politics Policy Quarterly, 394-411. Robinson, K. (2011). Shifting Power in Sacramento: The Effects of Term Limits on Legislative Staff. California Journal of Politics and Policy 3(1). Walters, D. (2012, 03 30). Changing Term Limits isnt the Answer. Monterey Herald, pp. http://www.montereyherald.com/general-news/20120330/dan-walters-changing-term-limits-isnt-the-answer.

Marketing activities Essay

Jeans are just an ordinary piece of clothing to many people. To others, however, they are a powerful means of self-expression. This fact is confirmed by the sheer number of companies that produce jeans, including Levis, Gap, Old Navy, Calvin Klein, Armani, Guess, Miss Sixty, Tommy Hilfiger and many others. Jeans are one of many ways in which a person can send a message to other people concerning various aspects of one’s character, an easy and understandable way at that. Given the large scale of marketing activities of clothing manufacturers nowadays, if jeans did not send a message, the producing companies would invent a message for them. It is just so fascinating to impart a twist of meaning to a couple of pants so that the pubic can identify them with a particular style or trend. This is the age of individualisation and customization, and clothing manufacturers do not want to stay behind. They want to make their product specific and readily recognizable – and they do everything they can to appeal to their target audience with a specific message. For instance, Levis are now seen as a traditional American outfit, something that brings one back to the times of life on the frontier or something that our grandparents wore. Gap, on the contrary, is a more youthful, girlish look, and so is Miss Sixty. This process can be described as branding, a concept familiar to every marketer who knows that if a piece of clothing does not send a message, it is the job of the marketer to invent this message and make sure the potential buyers are able to recognise it. The marketers’ task is to plant in the mind of the consumer the idea that carrying a certain brand is linked to a philosophy, that a company does not stand merely for a set of machines with workers as appendages, that it can develop and sustain an ideology embodied in a simple pair of jeans. What kind of messages can jeans send out? First, a person can opt for a traditional or a modern design, underscoring the level of commitment to modernity and change. It is most often natural for older people to choose traditional fashion, classical fits that will last for many years without violating the norms of fashion. The young, on the contrary, will most often wear the fashions of this very season in order to underscore that they are at the forefront of fashion. When, for instance, an older person may opt for a more modern cut going to a youth venue for some reason. This can send out a message to the younger crowd that this person wants to be in many ways like them and share their experiences in different possible ways. Then there is the question to be solved as to how much sex appeal the jeans should hold. We all remember very well this trend towards super-tight men’s jeans that mostly young guys wore partly because it was fashionable and partly because they wanted to demonstrate their attractions to the opposite sex. Girls can also wear tight jeans or choose those that are very low-cut to emphasize their appeal. As with revealing clothing in general, a person wearing such clothing demonstrates that he or she is very confident of one’s ability to attract other people and happy or at least not shameful of one’s figure. This is not always the case, and those who think their bodies are distasteful are not likely to choose jeans that will reveal a large part of it. Another message linked to wearing sexy jeans is the manifestation of the desire to be liked by the opposite sex. Surely we all or almost all have this desire, but not everybody would dare to reveal it in public, either in words or in clothing. Many people are wary of being too open about this inner drive and try to suppress it as something indecent. The individual who chooses to demonstrate this natural instinct is sending a message to representatives of the opposite sex: â€Å"Look at me, I want you to appreciate me. Am I not good-looking? † Tight jeans will almost surely make guys inspect a girl’s figure more closely than that of her more modest friends even if those look like top models. She will then attract more suitors – but at the same time risks incurring girls’ anger as they recognize that she is out on a hunt and will grab a fair share of what could have been their prey. Thus, wearing provocative jeans can also be a sign of daring, ability to defy social norms and to disregard the opinion of other people. Since in most cultures flirting is reserved for informal surroundings, a person who puts on a sexy-looking pair indicates that he or she believes to be in a setting where flirting is acceptable and one can expect to find a partner. Few people would seriously consider putting on provocative jeans on a corporate outing since this would send the wrong message to the colleagues. Besides, jeans can look either sophisticated or sloppy, and this distinction, too, is meaningful. A person may choose to look sloppy in order to underscore the informality of the situation and to make others feel at ease. This effect can occur when, for instance, an official or top-level executive invents a little outing with subordinates and wants to appear in the image of a simple, down-to-earth man attentive to their needs and feelings. Choice of an upscale-looking, elegant pair of jeans may not be quite the right choice since this will remind the inferiors once again about the difference in the social status between them and their boss. A casual, sloppy pair will be more acceptable.