Introduction to Terminology and Body Organization Study Guide

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1. Introduction

Nowadays, with our world rapidly changing and new discoveries being made every day, science can no longer be just for scientists. It is important for everyone to have an understanding and appreciation of this vital way of thinking. Scientists do not simply accept any observation; they question, analyze and test it. This is done to ensure mistakes are not made and that new information can be trusted. These are some of the valuable skills, which are not just useful in scientific investigation, but are also skills for life! So for this great process for learning and investigation begins with asking why, and there is no such thing as a final answer! By starting to develop an understanding of the terminology used in the world of science, and learning about the way the human body is organized, we can start to apply scientific thinking in our everyday lives. Terminology is what we call the words that are specific to each field of study. For example, in a computer science program, you would probably have to learn terms like RAM and ROM, but these words would not mean to most people what they mean to a computer scientist. It is the same with medical terminology. This is because the human body is broken down into many different systems so that it is easier to study and understand the way in which the body works. Scientists use a kind of shorthand-terminology, which is specialized language that people use to communicate with each other efficiently. The body consists of different levels of organizations. At the highest level is the atomic level, where individual atoms make up molecules and macromolecules. These in turn combine to form cells, the basic level of life which can perform all the processes associated with life. But different cells are designed to carry out specialized tasks, such as muscle or nerve cells. We call this arrangement of different cells into groups with common goals “organization”. And the final product of this organization is what we call emergent properties, which are new functions seen at the levels above. For example, a nerve cell cannot coordinate the rapid movement of a leg muscle by itself, but when combined with other nerve cells and muscle cells, a nerve cell can help to make this movement happen.

1.1. Purpose of the Study Guide

The study guide is tailored to meet the learning needs of those with little or no background in anatomy and physiology. Reinforcing the concepts contained in the guide through standard reading and reviewing those concepts and providing tools for “transfer learning” which will enhance your overall retention of the material. Finally and most importantly, all of the above becomes more relevant and valuable as you progress through your healthcare quality curriculum because it has the potential, if used properly and consistently from the onset, for building an essential skill in healthcare quality and that is “critical analysis”. Critical analysis is really the foundation for dissecting the root causes of quality failures and negative outcomes in healthcare delivery. This guide and each of its components all help to build and reinforce that skill. By doing so, it is not a stretch to say that this guide can be utilized as an “Answer Key” to critical analysis because by following and routinely using all that is outlined, you will find that you learn over time to systematically break down the various interactions, investigational methods and contributing factors in the cause-and-effect continuum associated with quality deficiencies and less than ideal patient outcomes. The interpretations that you develop and the interventions that you might suggest will become second nature and that, folks, is what effective quality improvement is all about. It just doesn’t get any better than routinely striving to solve problems and improve the outcomes for those in our care. Well all I can say is “let’s get to study”.

1.2. Scope of the Study Guide

The study guide has been compiled to introduce the students to the terminology used in the medical world. The acquisition of medical terminologies requires a systematic process. The learning trajectory begins from simple subjects and advances to more complex ones. In this study guide, there are a number of key areas in the field of medical terminology that have been given priority. This is in line with the major areas of human body systems which, at the end, help the student to have a comprehensive understanding of the entire human body in relation to medical terminologies. The focus of the study begins with an introduction to the various terminologies and term analysis. This becomes foundational as the student gains skills in prefix, suffix, and root word analysis. The study guide further captures a broad overview of the human body organization, the various levels of the body from cells to tissues, and the importance of maintaining a constant body environment. It moves on to cover the major body systems such as the skeletal system, the muscular system, and the nervous system. Within each system, a detailed explanation of the system and common terminologies used in result to malfunctions or diseases that affect that system has been provided. The guide is structured in a systematic manner, highlighting one each system by itself. This makes the work easier as students do not become overwhelmed by the amount of information given. Rather, they are able to appreciate how the various systems are interrelated. Towards the end of the guide, students will find a summarization of the key points of each system. I firmly believe that this study guide will be a useful companion for the students who intend to pursue studies in medical-related courses and those who are already in the medical field. In fact, further reading materials and exercises should be encouraged so that the students can constantly engage themselves and reinforce their understanding of the terminologies. I hope the students will enjoy the study and benefit from it richly.

1.3. Target Audience

This guide is designed for several different groups of individuals. First, this guide will be useful to any student studying some field of medical movement science, such as exercise physiology, physical therapy, occupational therapy, or athletic training. In particular, this guide was designed for students in the Kinesiology program at San Francisco State University who are taking Human Kinesiology (KIN 355) and Medical Terminology (KIN 356). This guide is also written for students who are working toward a degree in physical education and seek a stronger understanding of the human body; for them, the study of the terminology and body organization in this field may provide both interest and challenge. Secondly, this guide may be useful to any faculty member who is teaching such a course. As part of its development in the Fall of 2011, the initial draft of this guide was submitted to the San Francisco State University-Academic Senate-Curriculum Review and Approval Committee for the establishment of Medical Terminology (KIN 356) as a General Education-Lifelong Learning and Self-Development course. It was fully approved with the guide through the completion of the cycle of review. This guide will be useful to explain to the Senate and students why a class about medical terminology could be categorized as a General Education self development in areas such as health and well-being. It also will help to give a clearer idea of the level of knowledge development, its application and the scope of the class. Last but not least, it is a useful reference for any student seeking to apply for the course waiver by demonstrating the successful completion of comparable class at another institution. However, in the effort to standardize the practice, the petition to consider such waiver in San Francisco State University must be approved by the faculty adviser in writing. One thing needs to be mentioned that, all current and future students of KIN 355 and KIN 356 at San Francisco State University are obliged to adhere to the published university policies and curriculum established by the faculty of the Department of Kinesiology. It is in the best interest of students who are enrolled in such classes to work with us in order to achieve the goal of enhancing the understanding learning experience for medical terminology and body organization. Also, the authors and contributors of this guide welcome any kind of criticism, for the purpose of improving the quality and usefulness of the book. All readers can send comments and suggestions. The contact information can be found on the last section of this guide. We hope that all students will not only find this guide useful, but also have a great time exploring the study of human movement and enjoying the lab work, which brings the words and knowledge learned to life!

2. Terminology

2.1. Definition of Terminology

2.2. Importance of Understanding Terminology

2.3. Common Medical Terminology

3. Body Organization

3.1. Overview of Body Organization

3.2. Levels of Body Organization

3.2.1. Cellular Level

3.2.2. Tissue Level

3.2.3. Organ Level

3.2.4. Organ System Level

3.2.5. Organism Level

4. Body Systems

4.1. Skeletal System

4.1.1. Bones

4.1.2. Joints

4.1.3. Functions of the Skeletal System

4.2. Muscular System

4.2.1. Types of Muscles

4.2.2. Functions of the Muscular System

4.3. Nervous System

4.3.1. Central Nervous System

4.3.2. Peripheral Nervous System

4.3.3. Functions of the Nervous System

5. Common Terminology in Body Systems

5.1. Cardiovascular System

5.1.1. Heart

5.1.2. Blood Vessels

5.1.3. Functions of the Cardiovascular System

5.2. Respiratory System

5.2.1. Lungs

5.2.2. Airways

5.2.3. Functions of the Respiratory System

5.3. Digestive System

5.3.1. Stomach

5.3.2. Intestines

5.3.3. Functions of the Digestive System

6. Conclusion

6.1. Summary of Key Points

6.2. Importance of Terminology and Body Organization

Issues that are of importance to women voters today

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1. Economic Empowerment

The issue of economic empowerment is a broad topic that requires keen attention to solve. However, the government has proposed several acts to combat the challenges faced by women. These include The Paycheck Fairness Act, The Family and Medical Insurance Leave Act, and more. By enabling these acts to be enacted, the future for economic empowerment of women can be brighter.Creating and managing a good work environment for women is also a major concern. Out of 2,000 women surveyed by the Center for Talent Innovation, 43% said they intended to leave their corporate jobs within the next two years; 53% of those women cited a hostile work environment as the reason for leaving. In fact, women who are the “only” or the “one of the only” female in their business are twice as likely to be sexually harassed compared to women in gender-balanced business. With the widespread use of the internet and the rise of social media, cyber harassment is also on the rise and women are more and more the targets of online sexual harassment. As technology is now more easily accessible, so is online sexual harassment. It is very difficult to fight against cyber harassment because the perpetrators can hide their real identities. This creates a difficult environment for women, which can deter them from working or going online.While women have seen economic progress over the years, the absence of paid family and medical leave and balancing work and life remains a huge challenge for working women. This applies to businesses with less than 50 employees as employers are not required to grant medical leave. Ensuring workers can earn paid sick days is also a major issue for women. Women with full-time, year-round jobs are nearly a third more likely than men to lack paid sick days. Last but not least, affordable childcare is necessary for a family – children need a safe environment to grow and learn. However, finding quality childcare that is affordable is a big problem for working families. The high cost of childcare often forces families to make tough economic choices – in fact, a study shows that nearly half of parents have cut back work hours or left a job to care for a child. It is particularly frustrating for women as they make up the majority of the minimum-wage work force, where flexible work hours are not always available. In addition, putting children in childcare also leads to problems at work. Without the knowledge that the child is in good hands, many parents feel stress at work, leading to more sick days or concentration issues.Women also make less money than men who work similar jobs. This is referred to as the gender pay gap. As of April 2018, full-time working women in the United States only earned 82% of what full-time working men make. The gender pay gap is much worse for women of color. African American women are paid 61% and Latina women are paid 53% less than white men. This means that in order to make the same amount of money that a man makes in one year, a woman would have to work for the entire year as well as the first three months of the next year. There is no single cause for the gender pay gap. Rather, it is a complex issue that can be attributed to many different factors. One of these factors is occupational segregation – the idea that men and women tend to work in different types of jobs.Economic opportunities for women remain scarce. In the business world, it is difficult for women to get corporate leadership positions. In fact, only 6.6% of all Fortune 500 companies are run by women. One of the reasons that few women reach these high-level positions is the “glass ceiling.” The glass ceiling is an invisible barrier that prevents women and minorities from moving up in the world because of discriminatory practices. There are many laws in place that are meant to keep discrimination out of the workplace. For example, Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 makes it illegal for employers to discriminate against employees on the basis of sex, race, color, national origin, or religion. However, the glass ceiling remains a serious problem.

1.1 Gender Pay Gap

The gender pay gap is a critical issue affecting many women today. The “pay gap” is the difference in earnings between women and men. On average, women working full-time in the United States are paid just 80 percent of what men are paid. This gap is even greater for most women of colour: African American women who work full time, year round are paid only 61 cents for every dollar paid to white, non-Hispanic men, and Latinas are paid only 53 cents. The pay gap is real and it hurts women and their families. This is a concern for many women voters, as indicated by the AAUW, who state that 78 percent of women surveyed said that the gender pay gap is an important issue – even more women than those who rated affordable healthcare, violence against women, and the need to ensure that social security is there for women and men in their older years. It is also a key issue for younger women who, according to the American Association of University Women, may be uncertain as to the severity of the gender pay gap, but definitely believe in its existence, with 46 percent of recent female undergraduates expressing the view that it is an important issue. Focusing just on the “average” pay gap sometimes masks the extent of occupational segregation in pay; particularly that women are often in lower paid jobs and men in higher remunerated work. Women’s jobs have been systematically and historically undervalued. In the US, the National Committee on Pay Equity states that “occupations with 25 percent or more women workers, such as secretaries and teachers, generally pay less than occupations with similar skill requirements that have 70 percent or more men, such as janitors or truck drivers.” There is a recognition that women need not only better paid work, but the ability to reach higher paid jobs; and this is a part of the reason why there is perhaps, a direct influence to be found between the gender pay gaps and the lack of family friendly policies in many workplaces. Well over half of the participants in a survey undertaken by the Respecting Maternity Campaign have said that they chose to leave a job because flexible working arrangements and family friendly hours were not made available by the employer. This already points to one reason why the gender pay gap in earnings between women and men widens as women get older. And while it is recognised that part time work – which is often the choice of women to work around caring responsibilities – does indeed attract lower pay than full time work, it is also accepted that part time work should not mean people earn less per hour. Once again, the insidious nature of the gender pay gap is revealed in the fact that the European Commission have discovered that just under a third of women work part time, against only 8 percent of men – a figure which has not changed in 10 years. All of these factors are very commonly referred to by social action groups, who consider that “pay should reflect the job; not the gender” and women should have a ‘decent living wage’. Members of the public are often encouraged to support political rallies and camps for change in this area, such as ‘Moms Rising’, which draws attention to the way in which mothers are affected by the gender pay gap.

1.2 Maternity Leave Policies

Expectant mothers who have spent a sufficient amount of time in a company that has at least 50 employees are entitled to at least 12 weeks of unpaid leave to care for a child. Additionally, the company must provide the same or a comparable job when the individual returns from leave. This law is called the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA). However, the FMLA only applies to a limited portion of American women. Studies have shown that only a little over half of American women qualify for leave under the FMLA. For example, about 41% of working women do not qualify for FMLA leave because they have not worked in the same place for at least a year. As a result, many women are forced to return to work shortly after giving birth because they cannot afford to take an unpaid leave. Some women are let go while they are on leave, others return to find that they have been demoted or that their work environment has become hostile, and still others never return to the workforce. The lack of a paid maternity leave law at the federal level perpetuates these health and economic risks for women and families. Paid maternity leave legislation is an important part of the ongoing effort to improve access to maternity care and promote maternal and child health. As of now, the United States is one of only a few countries that does not have a federal law providing for paid maternity leave. The only other countries are Papua New Guinea, Suriname, and a few island nations in the Pacific Ocean. Moreover, studies have found that more generous paid leave policies can lead to positive health and economic outcomes for women and children. For example, a report by the United Nations Children’s Fund found that nearly a third of infants in the United States will not receive crucial postnatal care check-ups within six weeks of birth. This is particularly concerning because postnatal care can help prevent serious long-term health conditions for the child. Paid maternity leave can help encourage mothers to seek proper postnatal care for their children. Economists from the National Bureau of Economic Research have also found that paid maternity leave policies can lead to long-term benefits for children. For instance, paid maternity leave led to 10% reductions in infant mortality in countries that implemented paid leave policies. This kind of improvement in infant health may have lasting effects for a new generation of children. The World Health Organization also recommends that mothers should have at least 16 weeks of paid leave in order to properly heal from childbirth and to initiate breastfeeding. Given that paid leave policies have already been shown to produce tangible benefits in other countries, the United States should use the empirical evidence to inform the development of federal maternity leave laws.

1.3 Affordable Childcare

Affordable childcare is a crucial issue for women voters because the high cost of childcare is a significant burden on many women and their families. This is a significant factor. First, in today’s society, many families rely on two incomes. This means that women are increasingly likely to be in the workforce and contributing to the economy. However, without affordable childcare, working is not a viable option for many women. As many as one in four women who are not working say that the reason for this is that they are caring for family members. This can be compared to less than one in twenty men who are not working. This demonstrates the impact of providing care on women’s ability to work. Further, the cost of childcare can be very high. While prices vary across the country and according to the age of the child, the cost of a nursery place is on average about $1,196 every month. However, in many areas of the country, childcare can cost much more. For example, in Inner London, the cost for a nursery place for a child under the age of two is about $1,733. Many families, particularly those with more than one child young enough to require care, simply cannot manage to meet these costs. This can act as a significant barrier to women seeking to work. Without accessible childcare, women are more likely to have to reduce their hours, work part-time and/or have to work in low paid or insecure jobs with more ‘family friendly’ hours. This also has a knock-on impact on the types of jobs that women are able to apply for, as they may be less able to seek promotions or take up new employment that requires greater flexibility. The current system does provide support for pay for childcare. However, this can be confusing and difficult to access, and the costs have been rising over the past years. It is important to note that this is not a small inconvenience; the cost of childcare can have a long-term impact on women’s earnings. For example, research shows that women with children under six years old earn 4% less than women without children. This is known as the ‘child penalty’ and demonstrates that the impact of motherhood on women’s working lives is not just felt in terms of lost working hours – it can also affect women’s earning potential.

1.4 Equal Opportunities in the Workplace

Currently, women make up nearly half of the American labor force, yet women only hold 30.6% of executive and senior managerial positions. Furthermore, the likelihood of a woman working in a male-dominated job is the same now as it was 20 years ago. To combat this issue, multiple planned policy agendas aim on lifting the glass ceiling for women in the workforce. Firstly, it is proposed that women should have the legal right to know how much their male colleagues are being paid, particularly those in the same job. This has been considered as a key first step in closing the gender pay gap in male and female waged earners. Secondly, it has been suggested that companies with 250 or more employees should be required to publish details of pay for male and female employees, enabling higher pay and bonus disparities to be reported on. It is argued that transparency has helped to drive the requirement to business and has supported changes in culture. Finally, the gender pay gap should be included in requirements for gender pay gap reporting for companies where an organization’s workforce is below the 250 employee threshold. This has been put forth as a means to increase the pressure of reform onto businesses rather than just the law alone. It was clear that in the U.K., where similar policies have now become statutory, both success and downfall factors were evident; identifying a need to diversify analysis of such policy. After reviewing the current research findings, it has led me to discover a few critiques on the proposed plans discussed above. It has been argued that imposing obligations is only the raising of awareness and social expectation of what should be the norm. However, this view neglects the reality that change will not occur without awareness or expectation and it is this that is being delivered through such policy. Furthermore, it has been suggested from more hypothetical approaches that males may feel under increased scrutiny in an attempt to resolve a rise in female wages, in particular if there are financial penalties and repercussions for male thriving companies – sectors that have been culturally typified by male employment. I believe that it is clear evidence that these policies have the potential to promote and accelerate the movement towards gender equality in the workplace and thus federal level implementation would only serve to amplify the effect through nationwide companies. However, future research is needed beyond critiques and analysis to understand the main drivers to a better gender diverse working environment other than just policy.

2. Reproductive Rights

2.1 Access to Birth Control

2.2 Abortion Rights

2.3 Comprehensive Sex Education

2.4 Maternal Health Care

3. Gender-Based Violence

3.1 Domestic Violence Prevention

3.2 Sexual Assault Awareness

3.3 Harassment in the Workplace

3.4 Human Trafficking

4. Healthcare

4.1 Affordable and Accessible Healthcare

4.2 Reproductive Health Services

4.3 Mental Health Support

4.4 Insurance Coverage for Women’s Health

5. Education

5.1 Equal Educational Opportunities

5.2 STEM Education and Careers for Women

5.3 Sexual Harassment Policies in Schools

5.4 Scholarships and Grants for Women

6. Political Representation

6.1 Increasing Women’s Representation in Government

6.2 Gender Parity in Political Leadership

6.3 Encouraging Women to Run for Office

6.4 Eliminating Gender Bias in Political Campaigns

1. Introduction

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In addition, a positive social climate can significantly affect the medical treatment patients receive. Studies have shown that a better social climate in a healthcare facility can lead to more comprehensive standards in approving medical practices and reduced diagnostic risk. A quality social climate can foster improvement in patient care quality and help restore the art of healing. Given that leadership has a profound impact on the healthcare landscape, current and aspiring healthcare leaders need to understand the basics of good leadership in the field and the importance of cultivating those skills well.A healthcare organization with proper leadership in place, especially the front-line kind, can improve the quality of patient care, develop a positive and rewarding work environment, raise clinician morale and job satisfaction, reduce work hours to achieve effective work-life balance, increase collaboration and teamwork to enhance care delivery, reduce clinician turnover and ease staff shortages. With a better social climate in place, healthcare professionals are motivated to reach goals by embracing and aligning individual and organizational values and interests, minimizing unnecessary work conflicts and harmonizing work relationships, enhancing workplace welfare and well-being, and fostering a cooperative and creative work culture for attracting and keeping talent. Last but not least, it also reduces the cost of replacing professionals, loss of work hours, and expenses linked to excessive or futile exercises.In the past few decades, the concept of leadership in healthcare has gained much attention. Many healthcare organizations have shifted their focus from focusing solely on management to focusing more on effective leadership. The two practices have been considered the same for a very long time, but there is a distinct difference between the two. Management in healthcare has been defined as getting work done through people, supervising and directing employees, and executing organizational plans. On the other hand, leadership has been described as an area of influence, a process of social influence, which maximizes the efforts of others towards the achievement of a goal. As such, healthcare professionals need to cultivate leadership skills because they make an impact on their organization’s social climate and productivity levels.

1.1. Importance of Leadership in Healthcare

First and foremost, leadership is very essential for easy operation in any kind of organization. I think healthcare leadership is very important not only for the profit-making in the organization but also has a direct impact on the quality of patient care. Good healthcare requires good clinical and managerial quality, for this to be achieved effective leaders with suitable leadership styles are needed for the public health services and hospitals. Good leadership in health care services will meet the needs of patients and handle their complaints effectively. It will also encourage a customer focus and goal setting within the workforce. As a result, an improvement in communication and more effective teamwork will provide a drive in the organization to deliver better patient care. For this to happen the health sector or industry should emphasize leadership trainings and programs that can help to improve management and leadership expertise. This will increase the potential of health service managers as better leaders. With the changes in systems and business processes, health services leaders should have the capabilities to manage change for the better of the community. Patients deserve to have proper healthcare and quality of life. Therefore, leaders should have a vision and a clear focus on a healthy community. For example, creating more partnerships with community service organizations will engage leaders to work not only for the wellness of the patients in the hospitals but be concerned for the community overall. Such type of healthcare management will lead to positive eating habits and higher well-being of the general public. High-performing health organizations require leaders to provide good direction for organizations in planning for the future. Therefore, healthcare leadership in the 21st century is a project and a noble course that will deserve all the best efforts to sustain and improve patient satisfaction to higher levels. High levels of patient satisfaction will make healthcare organizations more attractive to different customer segments and specific patient populations would tend to use more of its services, thus raising the profitability and potential growth of the organization in the long run.

1.2. Significance of Social Justice in Healthcare

The term social justice is used nowadays in different concepts. To some, the term is allied with human values and the morality of people and their resources. Healthcare is described as the treatment and prevention of diseases. This incorporates the service offered by individuals in the health sector as well as governmental and non-governmental agencies that deal with the promotion of public health. Practicing in the healthcare sector should be based on principles of social justice. According to Pope Francis in December 2014, social justice is a key issue in the field of healthcare. It means that it is necessary to base both the activities and the organization of the healthcare system on the recognition that persons exist in relation to each other as part of a family and broader society. That is, the patients and healthcare providers should be viewed not just as people with ailments or skills, but as part of a broader functioning community. Sandman (2004) argues that social justice change efforts have two main infrastructural focuses. That is, they focus on either identifying and addressing unmet human need or identifying and addressing social inequities. According to Sandman, healthcare is particularly relevant in connection with the two focuses. He points out that social justice in healthcare has to be understood in terms of the fair distribution of common values. First, the practitioners have to recognize the shared moral foundation that brings the provider and those seeking care into cooperation. This calls for careful decision-making both at the individual level and at the administrative level. At the individual level, the healthcare providers have to make decisions on the kind of services and the resources to be allocated to the patient’s needs. On the other hand, administrative officials, working within governments and private organizations, have to make policies and decisions which aim at enhancing the common good. Such kind of decision-making in healthcare can be declined from its full potential in the absence of a meaningful reference to the ends for which it ought to aim. Sandman forecasts a better configurative model of healthcare decision-making embraced with reference to the values of human cooperation, love, and care. Social justice is important in relation to the act of providing healthcare. This is the primary goal of the healthcare providers. Balancing the goals of maximizing profits and satisfying patient’s matters require a critical concern for social justice. It is not only significant to mankind in society but also amongst the healthcare providers and the patients. Social justice creates a climate of equity and fairness, a climate which is equally crucial for the effectiveness of medicine and those employed in its behalf. Jablonski (2013) posits that healthcare providers who work to restore, promote, and maintain the health of patients under the name of justice have to secure the conditions which allow the providers to collectively answer the needs of society.

2. Leadership Skills for Promoting Social Justice

2.1. Effective Communication

2.2. Ethical Decision Making

2.3. Cultural Competence

3. Strategies for Developing a Socially Just Healthcare Culture

3.1. Promoting Diversity and Inclusion

3.2. Addressing Health Disparities

3.3. Advocacy for Vulnerable Populations

4. Incorporating Systems Thinking in Leadership

4.1. Understanding Interdependencies in Healthcare Systems

4.2. Identifying Feedback Loops and Leverage Points

4.3. Applying Systems Thinking to Improve Healthcare Delivery

5. Leadership Development for Improved Healthcare Accessibility

5.1. Training and Education Programs

5.2. Mentoring and Coaching Initiatives

5.3. Collaborative Partnerships for Knowledge Exchange

6. Conclusion

How Cryptocurrency and Blockchain Technology Impact Financial Markets

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1. Introduction

In essence, this work can serve as a very detailed introductory guide to those new to the field of global financial systems and burgeoning technology, as well as academics and industry professionals who wish to further comprehend and appreciate the potential impact of this new digital era.

There is an ongoing debate as to the potential benefits and risks that cryptocurrency and blockchain technology pose to the industry, and how global financial bodies – such as central banks and regulators – should react. This study intends to provide not only a comprehensive introduction to how this dynamic and averse financial landscape works, but also seeks to support and engage in the current discourse by providing knowledgeable insight and understanding.

This study will seek to explore the impact of these technologies in syncing global financial markets by providing a complete journey of the major underlying workings of both the blockchain and cryptocurrency, as well as their implications. Given the vast development and speed in adoption of these technologies over the last decade, and particularly following on from the recent digital revolution that has resulted from the coronavirus pandemic, there is a scarcity of academic research in interfacing these new technologies within existing financial systems and regulation.

However, as innovative and exciting as cryptocurrency technology is, these rapid developments have left many in the field feeling slightly bewildered and unsure as to what either cryptocurrencies or blockchain technology actually mean – particularly within the established structures of financial markets and regulation.

The rapid and increasing use of the internet and technology in everyday life has meant that traditional methods of transacting money are also evolving and changing. For example, when was the last time you paid for something in cash, or visited a bank or building society to transfer money? Many commentators believe that the use of blockchain and cryptocurrencies could revolutionize the way money is used, invested, and traded, much in the same way that the internet did for online shopping and information.

The emergence of cryptocurrency and blockchain technology has introduced a new and dynamic layer to financial markets. Cryptocurrencies present a new kind of digital or virtual currency. They rely on technology that acts as a distributed ledger, a record of all transactions that is maintained and verified by a network of computers rather than a centralized authority. This technology – referred to as blockchain – is the driving force behind the disruptive potential of cryptocurrencies to the broader financial landscape.

1.1 Background

Cryptocurrency, also known as virtual currency, is a digital asset designed to work as a medium of exchange where individual coin ownership records are stored in a digital ledger or computerized database utilizing strong cryptography to ensure transaction records. As a result, cryptocurrency transactions are secure and private. Each cryptocurrency uses a decentralized technology called blockchain, which is a public financial transaction database that is digitized and works on a secure, underlying technology known as distributed ledger technology. This makes the cryptocurrencies resistant to any form of control from the outside, such as a central bank and, importantly, makes the cryptocurrencies for the most part global and immune to the effects of local politics and geological instability. Blockchain technology is similar to the internet in that it has a built-in robustness. By storing blocks of information that are the same across its network, the blockchain cannot be controlled by any single entity and has no single point of failure. As such, it has the possibility to disrupt many industries by “decentralizing” processes and eliminating the need for trust between users – for example, intermediaries such as banks in financial services. Blockchain was invented in 2008 by an unknown person or group of people using the name Satoshi Nakamoto and was implemented the following year as a core component of the digital currency Bitcoin, the first cryptocurrency. Since the inception of Bitcoin, over 4,000 altcoins (alternative variants of Bitcoin) have been created and adopted for some form of application, such as Litecoin and Ethereum. Despite the name, cryptocurrency doesn’t operate like traditional currency. The most important feature of a cryptocurrency is that it is not controlled by any central authority: the decentralized nature of blockchain makes cryptocurrency theoretically immune to the old ways of government control and interference. Cryptocurrencies can be sent or received anywhere in the world, and may offer a lower transaction fee than traditional online payment methods. For these reasons, many different organizations and governments are excited about the potential use of cryptocurrency and blockchain to disburse funds, creating a more equitable system of money distribution on a global scale where power is no longer held by the few. However, the reluctance and at times hostility of some national governments to fully embrace blockchain and cryptocurrencies suggest that this vision will take significant work to put into effect. The motivation for this study is to explore how the advent and increasing presence of cryptocurrency and blockchain technology have impacted and will continue to impact the financial markets. Specifically, this study will focus on the disruptive potential of cryptocurrency and blockchain technology in areas such as investment banking, payment systems, and risk management. Moreover, the study aims to showcase the emergence of new financial products and services utilizing cryptocurrency and blockchain. It will also address the foreseeable regulatory challenges in the cryptocurrency and blockchain space and present a future outlook and recommendations for the envisioned fintech penetration into traditional financial markets. By providing systematic research of various aspects and impacts of cryptocurrency and blockchain technology on financial markets, this study will contribute to the much-needed comprehensive understanding and foster more research into the fintech area.

1.2 Purpose of the Study

The combination of cryptocurrency and blockchain technology has given birth to a new asset class that has caught the interest of investors and industrial players alike. The high level of excitement and speculation that now characterizes the cryptocurrency market means that this market is of high research interest. The purpose of this research is to review how cryptocurrency and blockchain technology have impacted the financial market so far and to judge if this is just another technological fad or if the impacts are substantial enough to spur long-term structural changes in the financial world. By analyzing how cryptocurrency and blockchain technology challenge the traditional financial market and by looking into what new financial products and services have been made possible by the rise of this technology, the main purpose of the study is to expose the transformative potential of cryptocurrency and blockchain technology in a number of critical areas in finance, including banking, investment, and payments. It is hoped that the findings of this research will give valuable insights to financial stakeholders like banks, payment companies, and investors on what to expect and how to make the best use of the new opportunities as well as coping with the changes that are brought about by this revolutionary technology. By discussing the disruptive impacts of cryptocurrency and blockchain technology on three essential components of the traditional financial world, namely investment banking, payment systems, and risk management, and by studying the new financial landscape that has been created such as the rise of cryptocurrency as a digital asset class and the emergence of new ways of raising capital like initial coin offerings, we seek to answer this research question throughout the essay. This research attempts to examine how cryptocurrency and blockchain technology affect not just the basic ways in which financial activities are carried out but also new dimensions in the digital era, in particular the disintermediation of the financial ecosystem which brings about the new notion of digitalized ‘trust’ and a more transparent, fairer environment to both providers and consumers of finance. By understanding the mechanics of these changes, we can also understand the reasons for the current regulatory dilemmas and challenges as well as uncover the potential of this evolving digital finance era.

1.3 Research Questions

Based on the growing trend of cryptocurrency and the heated discussion it has raised around the world, it is interesting to explore the impacts of cryptocurrency on the financial market. In general, the research questions to be addressed include the following: whether cryptocurrency will substitute the traditional fiat currency issued by the government as the standard currency in the future; what is the main advantage of cryptocurrency that draws more and more attention in the financial market; whether blockchain, as the underlying technology which powers cryptocurrency, will also affect the development of the financial market. Also, there is a trend that increasing types of investment in the market are related to cryptocurrency, such as the initial coin offering which means the first sale of a digital currency and it is generally used as a source of capital for start-up companies. However, the practical effect of the new type of digital money in the market still needs to be further investigated. Last but not least, it will be interesting to explore the room for the growth of cryptocurrency and its impacts on the way the current market operates, for example, internet trading as well as illegal activities and market projects such as the Silk Road which uses bitcoin for money exchange purposes. The final direction and scope of the research findings may be influenced, altered, limited, and even constrained by the due date for the work, as Czech (2006:5) as well as Silverman (2005:11) refer that it is important to be aware that research is a timed activity and good time management is essential to plan and execute the research project.

2. Overview of Cryptocurrency and Blockchain Technology

2.1 Definition of Cryptocurrency

2.2 Explanation of Blockchain Technology

2.3 Relationship between Cryptocurrency and Blockchain

3. Traditional Financial Markets

3.1 Definition and Characteristics

3.2 Role of Investment Banking in Traditional Financial Markets

3.3 Payment Systems in Traditional Financial Markets

3.4 Risk Management in Traditional Financial Markets

4. Disruptive Potential of Cryptocurrency and Blockchain Technology

4.1 Impact on Investment Banking

4.1.1 Disintermediation of Financial Institutions

4.1.2 Tokenization of Assets

4.1.3 Smart Contracts in Investment Banking

4.2 Impact on Payment Systems

4.2.1 Faster and Cheaper Transactions

4.2.2 Cross-Border Payments

4.2.3 Decentralized Payment Networks

4.3 Impact on Risk Management

4.3.1 Transparency and Immutable Records

4.3.2 Fraud Prevention and Detection

4.3.3 Smart Contracts in Risk Management

5. New Financial Products and Services

5.1 Cryptocurrencies as an Asset Class

5.2 Initial Coin Offerings (ICOs)

5.3 Decentralized Finance (DeFi)

5.4 Security Tokens

6. Regulatory Challenges and Opportunities

6.1 Current Regulatory Landscape

6.2 Challenges in Regulating Cryptocurrency and Blockchain

6.3 Opportunities for Regulatory Frameworks

7. Case Studies

7.1 Impact on Stock Exchanges

7.2 Disruption in the Banking Sector

7.3 Adoption by Central Banks

8. Future Outlook and Recommendations

8.1 Potential Future Developments

8.2 Recommendations for Financial Institutions

8.3 Recommendations for Regulators

Ebola: Safely Managing Patients Infected with Highly Contagious Diseases

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1. Introduction

Highly contagious diseases with epidemic potential require a coordinated, continuous response that involves all levels of government and partners internationally. Nurses working in different phases of an outbreak need to be knowledgeable, flexible, and prepared to adapt to ever-changing situations. Continuing education and training, along with comprehensive preparedness and readiness plans, are essential to protect both healthcare workers and the public. However, ongoing and continuous education and preparedness for Ebola and other highly contagious diseases are challenges that the healthcare system and nursing profession currently face.Highly contagious diseases like Ebola present unique challenges to nurses in the healthcare setting, as both the patients and healthcare workers are at risk of infection. Nurses, especially those who work in critical care units and emergency departments, play a key role in identifying, managing, and preventing the spread of Ebola. Successful containment of outbreaks and prevention of further transmission depend on early diagnosis, isolation of infected patients, appropriate infection control practices, and the use of personal protective equipment.Ebola is a rare and deadly disease caused by infection with one of the Ebola virus strains. It was first discovered near the Ebola River in 1976 in what is now the Democratic Republic of Congo. Since then, outbreaks have appeared sporadically in Africa. The 2014-2016 outbreak in West Africa was the largest Ebola outbreak since the virus was first discovered, with multiple countries affected. The outbreak was associated with more than 28,000 cases and over 11,000 deaths. Twelve cases of Ebola have been reported in the United States to date, with two of those being transmissions within the healthcare setting.The world has experienced several infectious disease outbreaks in the past, such as the Spanish flu in 1918, the severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) in 2003, the H1N1 influenza in 2009, and the Ebola outbreak in West Africa in 2014-2016. Safely managing patients infected with highly contagious diseases is of utmost importance to prevent the spread of infection within the healthcare facility and the community. This is especially crucial given the global nature of healthcare and the ease and frequency of international travel today.

1.1. Importance of Safely Managing Highly Contagious Diseases

First and foremost, safely managing highly contagious diseases like Ebola is important to minimize the risk of transmission, both for healthcare workers and other patients in the healthcare setting. Ebola is caused by infection with a virus of the family Filoviridae, genus Ebolavirus. The Ebola virus is a member of a family of RNA viruses known as Filoviridae. These viruses exist as parasites of several organisms, including humans, and cause a number of hemorrhagic fevers. The Ebola virus is named after the Ebola River in the Democratic Republic of Congo (formerly Zaire), where one of the first recorded outbreaks occurred. Since then, there have been numerous outbreaks of Ebola in Africa. The first documented human case of Ebola virus was in 1976, and since that time, the virus has been a health threat in Africa. The natural reservoir host of the Ebola virus is not confirmed, but scientists believe that the virus is animal-borne and that bats are the most likely reservoir. In general, highly contagious diseases have the potential to cause sudden, widespread illness and death, and they can also cause a high degree of public fear and social disruption. Therefore, it is essential that there is a coordinated and well thought out plan for managing such diseases effectively. Severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS), for example, led to considerable disruption to international air travel and business in 2003, and had serious economic implications for affected countries. Even more seriously, the “Black Death,” now known to be caused by the bacterium Yersinia pestis, killed an estimated 25 million people in Europe between 1347 and 1351 and had far-reaching social and economic effects. Highly contagious diseases like Ebola are transmitted through contact with blood or body fluids of a person who is sick with or has died from Ebola, or through exposure to contaminated objects, such as needles. Some highly contagious diseases may be airborne, transmitting through particles of moisture that are coughed or sneezed into the air. It is also possible for some diseases to be transmitted through the water or food supplies. Therefore, taking appropriate measures for safely managing such patients with highly contagious diseases is vital. Such measures help to control the spread of these diseases and minimize the risk of infections to both patients and healthcare workers. In addition, having appropriate procedures for managing patients with highly contagious diseases in place can give assurance to healthcare workers, who are the first line of response, and also avoid unnecessary panic among the public. Sudden outbreaks of highly contagious diseases can cause substantial stress and worry. People may worry about catching the disease for themselves or for their loved ones, what treatments are available or what will happen to their jobs or businesses. By having good plans in place for managing patients with highly contagious diseases and by effectively and appropriately implementing those plans, public fear and social disruption can be minimized.

1.2. Overview of Ebola Virus

The first symptoms of Ebola infection are very similar to those of many other infections, such as fever, muscle pain, headache, and sore throat. These early nonspecific symptoms, along with adequate knowledge of the transmission pathway, are believed to be important in the recognition and containment of potential outbreaks. These symptoms, however, are eventually overpowered by the later signs of severe damage to the vascular system, such as widespread bruising, bloody feces, vomiting blood, and spontaneous bleeding from various orifices. If the patient makes it past this critical stage and has a robust immune system, they can recover from the virus. Long-term complications of Ebola infection may include joint pain, muscle pain, and fatigue. However, the survival rate depends on the exact strain of Ebola virus and medical care. For some outbreaks, live rates have varied from 25% to 90%.The Ebola virus primarily targets the immune system and vascular system in the human body. After initial contact and entry into the body, the virus first invades local macrophages and dendritic cells, then travels within infected cells through the lymphatic system. The virus ultimately disrupts the vascular system and induces abnormal blood clotting, which can lead to a variety of bleeding disorders. In fact, it is the multifaceted damage to the vascular system which ultimately results in the severe and often fatal hemorrhagic fever that has made Ebola virus infections notorious. The cellular response to Ebola infection, known as “cytokine storm,” greatly enhances inflammation and vascular permeability, further adding to the lethal nature of the virus.The Ebola virus, named after the Ebola River in the Democratic Republic of Congo, where it was first detected in 1976, is a member of the family Filoviridae. There are five known Ebola virus species, four of which can cause disease in humans and the fifth in nonhuman primates. While the natural reservoir for Ebola virus remains unknown, it is believed that fruit bats are likely the hosts for the virus and that the infection is transmitted to humans and other animals through bat secretions. Upon infection, the virus can be secreted in many different body fluids, such as saliva, vomit, feces, sweat, and blood, and can be transmitted to others through direct contact with the skin or mucous membranes.

1.3. Challenges Faced by Nurses in Managing Ebola Patients

Nurses working with Ebola patients face many challenges. These challenges may encompass the provision of direct care and the structural, administrative, and cultural issues that are part of an outbreak response in a healthcare facility. Most significantly, the high mortality rates and the absence of a proven vaccine and a clear-cut treatment for Ebola may cause fear and extensive distress for nurses who are responsible for providing nursing care to the patients. Studies have identified that there is an existence of cognitive, emotional, and physical challenges experienced by the nurses. The cognitive challenges include high workload, situational awareness, and decision-making process in managing the safety of both nurses and the patients. Emotional challenges mainly refer to the psychological demand, anxiety, burnout, and stress due to the unpredictable disease trajectory and death of the patients while physical challenges are related to the adherence of the infection prevention and control practices and use of personal protective equipment (PPE) in the workplace. Also, maintaining a safe environment with high infectious agents such as the providing of adequate spacing from other patients, segregation or isolation plans, and the reduction in unnecessary transportation to other places can be challenging. This may entail the alteration of the healthcare customs of allowing visitations and the accommodation of patient’s preference on the comprehensive healthcare options. Nurses not only have to maintain the functional requirements in treating the patients but also to implement the structural changes. Mitigation strategies include more staffing and the training of healthcare workers to have a better understanding of the pathogen and the infection prevention. The ongoing Ebola weighs heavy on the nurses both mentally and physically. The continuous exposure to the trauma and suffering of the patients can lead to distress response and other types of psychological impacts on the nurses, not to mention potential stigmatization and shunning by the public. It is important for the nurses to have an additionally reinforced training on stress and emotional management during the outbreak of such high-risk infectious diseases. In essence, it is an educational and support intervention strategy which can aid in diabetes prevention and improve the holistic health in the safety work environment for the nurses. Also, empowering the nurses on the decision-making process and work safety confidence with more isolation on the structural overcome will promote a positive and healthy workforce when encountered with an infectious outbreak. Finally, with the increased involvement in the research profession and rapid advancements in the laboratory technologies, it aims to develop better treatments of Ebola and potential cures. Nonetheless, it is vital for the nurses to have a strong drive in the engagement of the academic opportunities to have a deeper understanding of biomedical research so as to equip themselves to face the challenges in dealing with such infectious diseases in the long run.

2. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

2.1. Importance of PPE in Ebola Management

2.2. Types of PPE Used by Nurses

2.3. Proper Donning and Doffing of PPE

3. Infection Prevention and Control Measures

3.1. Hand Hygiene Practices

3.2. Disinfection and Sterilization Procedures

3.3. Waste Management in Ebola Units

4. Patient Assessment and Monitoring

4.1. Initial Assessment of Ebola Patients

4.2. Vital Signs Monitoring

4.3. Symptom Management

5. Safe Patient Handling and Movement

5.1. Techniques for Safe Patient Transfers

5.2. Proper Use of Medical Equipment

5.3. Preventing Patient Falls

6. Communication and Collaboration

6.1. Effective Communication Strategies in Ebola Units

6.2. Interprofessional Collaboration in Managing Ebola Patients

6.3. Family and Community Engagement

7. Emotional and Psychological Support

7.1. Providing Emotional Support to Ebola Patients

7.2. Self-Care for Nurses in High-Stress Environments

7.3. Dealing with Stigma and Discrimination

8. Emergency Preparedness and Response

8.1. Disaster Planning for Ebola Outbreaks

8.2. Rapid Response Teams and Emergency Protocols

8.3. Lessons Learned from Previous Ebola Outbreaks

9. Training and Education

9.1. Ebola-specific Training for Nurses

9.2. Continuous Professional Development in Ebola Management

9.3. Simulation and Drills for Preparedness

10. Conclusion

Evolution of computer science and future research trends

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1. Introduction

Computer technology has evolved over the decades from simple devices capable of only simple computations to some of the most complex and sophisticated systems known to man. The unique importance of computer technology and its applications has led to the need for a distinct scientific discipline – computer science. In the last century, this discipline has had a significant impact on society through its applications in a variety of fields including business, the military, and healthcare. The applications are diverse and offer tremendous potential to further advance the human condition. This raises the question as to what computer science is and what fundamental problems in the field have been resolved. Such a question can only be answered by taking a historical perspective and looking at the problems that have been heavily investigated. By studying the history and subsequent trends in the development of computers and programming, it is possible to gain a substantial understanding of the field as a whole. This said, in this report, I will explore fundamental aspects of the computer science field by taking a look at its origins, development over the last century, various sub-fields and research areas, and a high-level overview of the impact that this discipline has had on our modern society. The report will provide information that will hopefully show major milestones in computer science and expose areas yet to be heavily investigated, providing insight into the future of computer science research. It will provide a guiding point to a person’s understanding of how computers have been developed and show that the field is more than just processing and accepting input and output. I plan to discuss some of the major uses of computer science in society and thereby describe the ways people and systems must interact with it, i.e. users and peripheral devices. The report will show how a program written in a high-level language will eventually have to conform to the set of instructions the computer can process and, in turn, perform a complex sequence of reactions as a result of a single input. Through the research, the report aims to identify and promote the recent trend in computer science for education and how the integration of technology for students has formed and developed over the last few years. By doing this, I am sure that it will provoke a keen and novel idea to develop student learning further. It is becoming increasingly high profile and, in practical contents, there is a growing emphasis on interdisciplinary research and development. The emerging field of Games Science is indeed very interdisciplinary and has a significant potential impact on society and the economy. It is more likely that knowledge gained within the field can be used or more applicable to a real-world problem or industrial advancement due to the vast variety of knowledge that is to be learned when studying such a broad and mainstream topic. This report was eventually compiled to share knowledge in the art of software development and to compare different programming languages to help and inform users on which language to choose for a particular task. Due to the growing knowledge and diversified technology in our society, selecting the correct programming language to learn for a specific job is a tough and difficult decision to make. So by having the knowledge of how different languages work and cope with certain jobs, I thought I could help guide people on the right path in the computer science field. Overall, this report aims to provide a comprehensive guide to the fundamental aspects of computer science that will hopefully create a springboard to growing new ideas and key focus points for the research communities. By attempting to answer and explore key areas of the computer science field, future potential discoveries will become a reality and in turn provide a gateway for improved technology. By taking a research approach and method, it will allow for an understanding and insight into the current standings of the computer science field and thereby develop a desire to improve the knowledge base.

2. Historical Development of Computer Science

2.1. Early Computing Devices

2.2. Emergence of Modern Computers

2.3. Evolution of Programming Languages

3. Major Milestones in Computer Science

3.1. Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning

3.2. Data Science and Big Data Analytics

3.3. Internet and Networking Technologies

3.4. Cybersecurity and Privacy

3.5. Human-Computer Interaction and User Experience

4. Current Challenges in Computer Science

4.1. Scalability and Performance Optimization

4.2. Ethical Considerations in AI and Automation

4.3. Sustainability and Green Computing

4.4. Privacy and Data Protection

4.5. Bridging the Digital Divide

5. Future Trends and Research Directions

5.1. Quantum Computing and Cryptography

5.2. Edge Computing and Internet of Things (IoT)

5.3. Augmented Reality and Virtual Reality

5.4. Blockchain Technology and Distributed Systems

5.5. Biocomputing and DNA Computing

6. Conclusion

F.O.L.K.S. – Follow and Obey the Laws the Kings Set – Black Gangster Disciple

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1. Introduction

The Black Gangster Disciple organization is a powerful gang. Its power and strength have made it one of the most powerful gangs in the United States, with about 35,000 members. The group consists of well-organized “crews” that work together under the supervision of a strong central leadership. Members are typically male and African-American, and many come from low-income areas. The group is most active in the Great Lakes region, especially in Chicago. It also has members in other states and other countries. The gang has a long history. It was created by David Barksdale, who was the leader of the Black Disciple Nation. The group that eventually became the Black Gangster Disciples was formed by the leader of the Supreme Gangsters, a group that would eventually align with the Black Disciple Nation. The combined gang was known as the Black Gangster Disciple Nation. The gang has a hierarchical leadership structure, with a national board, state leaders, and then local leaders who lead the crews. The highest leader of the gang is known as the “chairman of the board”. The gang also has many laws that members must obey. These laws are grouped into “FOLKS” – “Follow and Obey the Laws the Kings Set”. This refers to the crucial role that leaders and their laws have in the gang’s ideology and organization. It also reflects the fact that leaders in the group have powers similar to those of a king in a monarchy – and gang leaders are prepared to defend their “kingdom” with violence. The gang’s power and presence are so strong because it is based on a semi-secret, disciplined, and well-structured organization. Every member of the gang is given a copy of the rules, called the “literature”. This literature was written by the founder of the Black Gangster Disciples, David Barksdale, before he was murdered in 1974. He was known as “King David”. The gang’s laws were updated by the next leader, Hoover, who was known as “King Larry”. Some of the laws specify things that members should or shouldn’t do – for example, “you must not be a punk” and “you should aim to be physically fit and train body and mind”. However, some of the laws are for the disciplined organization of the group, such as “Discipline must be maintained”; “One is never to harm the love of one’s life”; and “The unwilling, led by the unqualified, to do the unnecessary, for the ungrateful, is foolish”. The focus of this module is the issue of “gangs” and “dissent groups”, but the mention of discipline and leadership helps you to understand how the gang has maintained its power and influence for so many years.

1.2 Origins of Black Gangster Disciple

The Black Gangster Disciple began life in the Midwest. The organization was founded in the late 1960s as the Black Gangster Disciple Nation by David Barksdale, leader of the Black Disciples, and Larry Hoover, “supreme gangster” (Quinn and Kumfer 656). Hogshire (21) states that “Hoover controlled not only the illicit drug market in the Southside of Chicago, but…all the black underworld in the city” and that Barksdale ran the Westside. The connection between the Black Gangster Disciple and the Black Disciples “is a long-standing and complex one” (Hagedorn 85), although they have been known to be enemies. Hagedorn (85) suggests that power struggles and “factionalism” within Chicago gangs following the death of Barksdale led to the Black Gangster Disciples splitting into more “institutionalized units” and that the groups claim to be really fighting over the legacy of Barksdale. Hobble (353) suggests that the Black Gangster Disciples were actually formed prior to the Black Disciples and that they were originally part of a “people’s gang nation” and an “unholy alliance” that were united against “white supremacy and the police”. However, the differing interpretations of the origins of the Black Gangster Disciples are a common feature of gang formation myths… every individual gang seeks to claim a heritage that legitimizes its existence and codifies its adopted codes of conduct. It is usually very difficult to research gangland history because traditional historical documentation is not available so historians have to rely on a number of different sources. Gang culture is often considered to be simply an “oral history” but in reality, many gangs have adopted modern methods of communication and history, through websites and social media being only the latest “oral” movements.

2. F.O.L.K.S. Philosophy

2.1 The importance of following laws

2.2 The role of kings in the organization

2.3 Principles of loyalty and obedience

3.1 Hierarchy within the organization

3.2 Roles and responsibilities of members

3.3 Code of conduct and rules

4.1 Criminal activities and involvement

4.2 Community outreach and social programs

4.3 Influence on local neighborhoods

5. Influence of F.O.L.K.S. on Gang Culture

5.1 Spread of F.O.L.K.S. ideology

5.2 Impact on other gangs and organizations

5.3 Media portrayal and public perception

6. Challenges and Controversies

6.2 Internal conflicts and power struggles

6.3 Criticisms and debates surrounding the organization

7.1 Adaptation to changing times and environments

7.2 Potential for growth or decline

7.3 Strategies for maintaining relevance and influence

Focus on Population Health

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1. Introduction

Many professions today are occupied with improving the health of individuals or specific populations. Advances in clinical care, the accreditation of public health and health service organizations, and the emergence of new technologies that enable the collection of large, varied data sets relevant to human health have created new opportunities and challenges for those professionals working to improve health outcomes. However, there is a growing recognition among both practitioners and the research community that health outcomes do not depend solely on the quality and availability of clinical care. In recent years, academics, policy makers, and practitioners have increasingly sought to understand and improve the health of entire populations. This new and growing field is known as population health. The focus of those who work in the field of population health ranges from the study of the distribution and determinants of health and disease to the development of interventions that will ultimately improve the health of a specific population. Establishing what is meant by the term population health and suggests that, to understand fully this emerging discipline, it might be worth considering the factors that have led to what is now an interdisciplinary framework for approaching the health of populations.

1.1. Definition of Population Health

In conclusion, different workforces will make power upon data collection and realized in the progress of personalized medicine in which genomics plays a crucial role. Public health genomics is a new interdisciplinary field which has emerged as a health issue, genomics, and society merge. This new field may change the paradigm of health and disease across the health sciences, particularly in the prevention of diseases and improving individual health outcomes. However, only with the realization of the true potential and the benefits from the new research field, it will offer opportunities to impact directly upon the people in the society and make a difference in health both locally and globally.On the other hand, genomics has existed for over 100 years. But it is only in the last 20 years that we have seen an explosion of knowledge about the role of genes and the way that they influence each of us and our health. Research in genomics can offer new insights into the genetic bases of different diseases, and find new clinical applications and treatment strategies for what we may consider currently genetic untreatable diseases. However, genomic research often refers to taking overwhelming amounts of digital data associated with individuals and using the data to examine. By doing so, identifying large data or information from the patient can be found and valuable in disease prevention and health promotion of individuals.Public health is another field which has existed for many years. However, its key focus is the health of a community or region. Public health often looks to protect and promote health and well-being, and to prevent illness and disease, albeit within a defined geographic area. It does this through research, surveillance, education, and the development of healthy societies. In the meantime, people who work in the field of public health often work as health inspectors, public educators, or as a nurse at community health in Canada.Population health is one of the many fields in the health sciences and genomics domain. It is an approach to health that aims to improve the health of an entire human population. This concept does not only focus on the eradication of diseases and health promotion of the individual, but also avoidance and mitigation of diseases on a large scale through environmental and social approaches to health. With the development of the field of genomics, and the ever-increasing technology around us, the ability to study large populations of human beings makes population health an up-and-coming and exciting field to be in.

1.2. Importance of Population Health

The concept of population health is an all-encompassing approach to health that looks beyond the individual level of medical treatment. If a society is considered unhealthy, utilizing medical treatment to heal the individuals who are unwell is not the most effective or efficient method of creating a healthy population. Medical professionals and researchers accept a notion that individual health is not solely influenced by personal life and genetics. The community one lives in and the broader societal influences on that community also have profound impacts on each single person’s health, though it may not seem obvious to those experiencing poor health. By taking the theories of population health and turning them into something practical and applicable to improving patient outcomes and making the most of resources, the model of health care now fits under the banner of ‘value-based healthcare’. The aim of the research and work behind population health is to identify societal and community level influences of health over that of individual factors, allowing, promoting and enabling social well-being for all, and by doing so, leading to a reduction in health inequality and improved overall health for society. With a society focused on the broader influences of health, and health care resources utilized where they are most effective and most needed, longstanding issues with health disparities can be greatly improved. Also preventive care can be utilized more effectively, creating a lower burden on medical services and increasing the nation’s overall productivity. Finally, increased awareness and influence on societal level health factors may begin to influence public policy making and neighborhood welfare programs, enhancing the impacts made on individual and societal health and leading to better well-being for all involved.

1.3. Overview of the Work

The main body of work is divided into six main chapters. The first three chapters are focused on defining population health, explaining different factors which determine the population health and presenting strategies to improve the health of the population. The first chapter is an introduction where we are presented with the definition of population health and its importance. In the second chapter, different determinants of population health such as social, economic, cultural and lifestyle factors are explored. The third chapter presents various strategies that are used to improve the health of the population. In the next two chapters, assessment of the population health and challenges in the population health are examined. The assessment of population health is examined through data collection, analysis and health indicators. On the other hand, in challenges given to the population health, different types of hurdles which restrict the improvement in the health of the population are addressed. The last but one chapter is based on showcasing case studies which show different interventions that have been made in the field of population health and their real impact on the communities. In the final chapter, future directions in the population health are discussed which include emerging technologies, policy recommendations and collaboration. In this work, the aim of each chapter and the information that is being presented has been clearly explained. Also, I have made sure to link each part of the work to the key question that has to be answered which is ‘what is population health?’ every now and then so that the reader can understand the relevance of each section. Also, the reader is given the way how the next part of the work is linked to the previous work and its relative importance. For an example, I have written in the end of introductive chapter as ‘looked at more details in the proceeding chapters’ and started second chapter by using a sentence ‘Now, let’s look at in more details’ which gives a smooth transition from one part of the work to the next. And also close the second chapter with a sentence ‘will be discussed in next chapter’ so that it will initiate the interest of the reader. This is an acceptable way of formatting the document and this is the way how one can guide a reader through the work. This is how coherence of the work is being maintained from the beginning till the end. On the other hand, cohesion is being achieved mainly by linking every part of the work to the main issue that is being addressed so that the reader can understand the relevance of each section that is being studied. Also, appropriate use of connectives can be seen in the entire work in order to link the information within and between the given sections. This is vital for giving the work a logical flow and structure.

2. Determinants of Population Health

2.1. Socioeconomic Factors

2.2. Environmental Factors

2.3. Behavioral Factors

2.4. Access to Healthcare

3. Strategies for Improving Population Health

3.1. Health Education and Promotion

3.2. Disease Prevention and Control

3.3. Healthcare Policy and Advocacy

4. Assessing Population Health

4.1. Data Collection and Analysis

4.2. Health Indicators and Metrics

4.3. Surveillance and Monitoring

5. Challenges in Population Health

5.1. Health Disparities

5.2. Limited Resources

5.3. Aging Population

5.4. Global Health Issues

6. Case Studies in Population Health

6.1. Successful Population Health Interventions

6.2. Lessons Learned from Failed Interventions

6.3. Impact of Population Health on Communities

7. Future Directions in Population Health

7.1. Emerging Technologies and Innovations

7.2. Policy Recommendations

7.3. Collaboration and Partnerships

8. Conclusion

8.1. Summary of Key Findings

8.2. Implications for Public Health Practice

8.3. Call to Action

Food Insecurity and Security

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1. Introduction

The phrase ‘food insecurity’ has no standard accepted global definition. However, some more specific, reliable and generally agreed-upon description is used to aid data collection and comparison between different areas or countries. It is also useful when considering appropriate responses to food insecurity. Food insecurity refers to a situation where people lack secure access to sufficient amounts of safe and nutritious food for normal growth and development and an active and healthy life. This may result from the unavailability of affordable food, insufficient resources, or inconsistent access to food. Food insecurity can be classified into two primary stages: severe food insecurity and moderate food insecurity. Severe food insecurity, previously called famine, results in a substantial and almost immediate deterioration of the quality of life and may involve the threat of hunger and ultimately starvation. On the other hand, moderate food insecurity is characterized by the uncertainty of being able to obtain food, consistently or in socially acceptable ways. Hunger is the body’s way of signaling that it is not receiving the type and amount of food that it needs. This hunger can have a serious consequence on an individual’s physical and mental health. However, it is worth noting that the most common symptoms of hunger can include a constant lack of energy, dizziness, repeated illness, the inability to concentrate and organize thought, as well as a feeling of distress or worry. The ‘physical’ aspect of food insecurity involves the physiological changes that occur as a result of prolonged lack of essential nutrients and energy. For example, the nerve messages that control the muscles in the stomach can become damaged and can affect the movement and expulsion of the stomach muscles. This delay in the emptying of the stomach, known as gastroparesis, inhibits the sufferer from digesting food and can cause nausea and early satiety.

1.1 Definition of Food Insecurity

In our world today, there are numerous cases of food insecurity, including different forms that can be classified. There is chronic food insecurity, whereby people in a certain region historically have not had food for long periods of time, and this in some cases may be attributed to poverty, where people lack the financial means to access food or any other basic necessities for living.

In addition to that, many researchers believe that food insecurity arises when people live in unhygienic environments with no proper means of storing or preparing food, or they have no means of providing fresh food for themselves and their families.

Food insecurity, on the other hand, refers to a situation where people lack secure access to sufficient amounts of safe and nutritious food for normal growth and development and an active life (Santeramo). This refers to not having available food and being in a situation where it is either difficult to find food or to be in fear of famine (Zefirini and Canfora).

In the context of the work “Food Insecurity and Security” and specifically this piece, we’re focusing on writing an explanation and providing reliable references to better understand the concept of food insecurity. In essence, this can be attributed to the traditional means of procurement, such as discarding market surplus and disposing of food waste. But now, with rapid urbanization and industrialization, more people are turning towards markets for food.

1.2 Importance of Food Security

In conclusion, food security is a major issue in the world today. By the year 2050, global population is expected to reach 9 billion people. This poses a major challenge to food producers and suppliers, not only in terms of producing enough food for the growing population, but also to providing the world population with balanced and nutritious food. Cultures and traditions have changed and no one wants to eat the same kind of food every day. These among many other factors continue to put pressure on the food production, storage and distribution systems. Global climate change has led to unpredictable weather patterns, threatening the productivity of food production systems. There is need for the governments to come up with effective policies of ensuring that food is produced and distributed sustainably, and that all citizens, in particular the most vulnerable, have access to enough food to meet their dietary needs at any given time.Political stability and national security cannot be realized in a country that is unable to feed its citizens. In many cases, lack of adequate food supplies or the presence of ineffective food distribution systems can lead to food riots, protests and general disorganization of the society. These conditions contribute to political unrest and in some cases armed conflicts as different factions try to control the available food supplies. Such conditions drive away potential investors and lay a foundation for plight and underdevelopment.Moreover, where people are assured of their next meal, they are able to engage in meaningful economic activities with the aim of improving their lives and their community at large. This leads to economic growth and development. Modernization and economic development, which are the main drivers of national progress, cannot be achieved in any country without first ensuring that the population has access to enough food. This is because modernization is associated with various other related aspects, such as increasing per capita income, and shift from agricultural based to industrial economies, all of which require a well fed and nutritionally sound society.In addition to hunger and malnutrition, diseases resulting from lack of food continue to pose a major challenge to the realization of food security. For example, lack of food weakens the human immune system and its ability to resist diseases, making the affected population even more vulnerable to various diseases. On the other hand, the realization of food security can lead to political stability and peaceful coexistence among the members of the society. This is because availability of food to the entire population of a given country reduces the chances of the society being divided along social and economic lines in search of food.There is a clear link between food security and the health and well-being of a nation. The importance of food security to national development, economic growth, political stability, and social progress cannot be overemphasized. Food security is essential to sustainable development. However, providing food security continues to be a major challenge for many countries worldwide. Many individuals continue to suffer from hunger, despite the commitment by governments to achieve food security for their citizens.

2. Causes of Food Insecurity

2.1 Poverty and Income Inequality

2.2 Climate Change and Natural Disasters

2.3 Conflict and Political Instability

3. Consequences of Food Insecurity

3.1 Malnutrition and Health Issues

3.2 Economic Impacts

3.3 Social and Political Unrest

4. Global Efforts to Address Food Insecurity

4.1 Sustainable Development Goals

4.2 International Organizations and Initiatives

4.3 Agricultural and Food Policies

5. Regional Perspectives on Food Insecurity

5.1 Africa

5.1.1 Challenges in Sub-Saharan Africa

5.1.2 Strategies for Food Security in Africa

5.2 Asia

5.2.1 Food Insecurity in South Asia

5.2.2 Achievements and Challenges in East Asia

5.3 Latin America

5.3.1 Food Insecurity in Central America

5.3.2 Successes in South American Countries

6. Innovations and Solutions for Food Security

6.1 Technology and Digital Solutions

6.2 Sustainable Agriculture Practices

6.3 Community-Based Approaches

7. Future Challenges and Opportunities

7.1 Population Growth and Food Demand

7.2 Urbanization and Changing Diets

7.3 Climate Change Adaptation and Resilience

Gender Equality in Canada

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1. Introduction

The reference lists used in the research are primarily focused on recent studies into gender equality in Canada, which reflects that the research is taking into account the most up-to-date views on this subject. This is a strength of the research overall because it is using current evidence to address current issues in gender equality.

The introduction may be classed as quite a factual part of the research, in that it is providing an overview of what the reader can expect to learn from the research and providing definitions for key terms. However, many elements of the introduction, such as the historical context, may be seen as quite subjective. For example, one line reads “the road towards substantive gender equality in Canada remains long and filled with obstacles”. This could be argued to be the opinion of the writer, and the line suggests that female empowerment has not yet been achieved. However, as will be seen throughout the research, there is evidential support for the statements given so far in the introduction to the table of contents.The introduction to the table of contents is quite comprehensive as it provides key terms that are addressed throughout the research. For example, it explains what the Canadian Human Rights Act is and the various gender disparities that are covered later on in the research, such as gender in employment and gender in leadership. The introduction also provides some key federal statutes and policies introduced in Canada that promote and protect gender equality. As a result, the reader is able to understand some of the key legal documents and landmark cases that are mentioned throughout the research.Gender equality is a fundamental human right. The table of contents provides an in-depth research on gender equality in Canada. The research begins with an introductory overview of gender equality, explaining its importance and the different categories of gender equality in Canada, such as legal and policy. The research also provides a historical and sociological context, showing how gender equality has evolved over time in Canada. This gives a foundation into how the gender roles and societal norms have changed over time and how slow but steady progress has been made in terms of achieving gender equality.

1.1 Overview of Gender Equality

The rest of this document will discuss specific and detailed gender issues in different areas in Canada, and special attention will be drawn to certain under-researched fields such as gender equality in sports and interdisciplinary objectives. This document aims to provide an understanding of the effects of Canadian legislation, as well as the implications of human rights and law in establishing gender equality in Canada today.

Moreover, gender equality is not just a women’s issue, but rather an issue of human rights, which “including the rights of women and girls and the rights of all persons regardless of their gender” (Department of Justice, 2020). Addressing the issue of gender equality should involve actions and engagement from all genders. There is evidence to show that achieving gender equality benefits everyone – not only women, but men, boys and those with non-binary gender identities. This is because when people are treated on the basis of equality, it contributes to the chance of living a fulfilling life and a better quality of life for everyone. Gains in women’s rights result in stronger families, improved public health and increase in economic prosperity, as well as a more stable and peaceful world – “these impacts are not just borne by women and girls, but by entire communities and nations” (United Nations, 2017).Over the years, noticeable progress has been made in Canada. For instance, women’s participation in the labour force has increased significantly from about 28% in 1950 to nearly 61% in 2016 (Statistics Canada, 2017). In recent decades, this progress has been extended “towards achieving full gender equality in political and public life of women in many countries, including in Canada” (United Nations, 2017). However, it’s important to not be complacent, despite having achieved a high level of gender equality comparing to many other countries around the world, gender disparity still exists in various dimensions of Canadian society, especially in areas such as work and politics. This suggests that there are still underlying issues regarding gender equality in Canada.Gender equality is a fundamental principle of Canadian society. It “involves the promotion of the equality of all, regardless of gender, and the subsequent actions to change the structures and attitudes that perpetuate gender inequality” (Public Health Agency of Canada, 2008). This definition is consistent with the Canadian Human Rights Act, which considers the promotion of gender equality as a primary goal. The Act “prohibits discrimination based on sex, gender identity and gender expression, and aims to support the equal participation of women in the political, social and economic life of Canada” (Department of Justice, 2020). By promoting gender equality, Canada becomes a more inclusive and democratic society, where everyone potentially benefits from social, economic and political successes.

1.2 Importance of Gender Equality in Canada

As stated by the United Nations Development Program, gender equality is not only a fundamental human right, but a necessary foundation for a peaceful, prosperous and sustainable world. Promoting gender equality is also a critical aspect of reducing poverty. In Canada, studies show that women are still disproportionately affected by poverty. The 2011 National Household Survey indicates that 13.9% of women over 18 in Canada live in poverty, compared to 11.2% of men. And, incredibly, when we break down those numbers by visible minority status, 20% of women who are visible minority immigrants live in poverty. I argue that the Canadian government must consider the cultural and temporal contexts of the Canadian population. In the past, the feminist efforts to bring about gender equality in Canada have been supported by international documents such as the United Nations’ Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women. However, as Natalya Din-Kariuki writes in her book “Canadian Women and the Struggle for Equality”, “the most widely known and comprehensive international statement of women’s rights” is the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action. This was born from the Fourth World Conference on Women held in Beijing in 1995. One of the major threads running through the document was a call to end the persistence of violence against women, no matter where it occurs and in “whatever form it takes”. The Declaration also specifically identified the environment, the economy and health as areas in which women’s rights are in peril. Hence, according to Din-Kariuki, the Beijing Declaration recognizes that women’s rights and gender equality are not just a matter of concern for women as a special interest group, but as a matter of fundamental human rights and a concern for the whole society. She points out that the Declaration also highlights and acknowledges that women’s struggles for equality and human rights are not confined to any particular region or tradition, as it represents “a call to integrated action on behalf of women”. The use of the word “call” indicates a need for action from all sections of society; gender equality is something that needs to be worked at collectively.

1.3 Historical Context of Gender Equality in Canada

Section “1.3 Historical Context of Gender Equality in Canada” discusses how “modern Canadian gender equality objectives must be placed in the context of a continuous and evolving series of social movements and societal expectations”. The section started with a brief history of suffrage rights in Canada. In 1916, Manitoba became the first province to grant women the right to vote in provincial elections. The remaining prairie provinces followed suit in 1917, 1918, and 1918. Ontario and Nova Scotia extended the vote to women in 1917, British Columbia and New Brunswick in 1918, and Quebec trailed over a decade later in 1940. The Federal government granted limited Indian status and a vote to First Nations women and veterans in 1917. After World War II, the global campaign for women’s rights began to have an impact in Canada. In 1946, Canadian women, for the first time, were entitled to at least the same rights as men, both in civil law and in the Quebec Charter of rights and freedoms. The Feminist movements began to establish common cause with the broader labour and social movements of the 1960s and 1970s. By 1981, the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms was enacted and Section 28 of the Charter provided a solid platform for advancing gender equality by stipulating that rights and freedoms enshrined in the Charter should be equally extended to both men and women. At the Federal level, the Liberal government of Jean Chretien, in the early 1990s, made several major legislative changes which clearly enacted the Federal government’s commitment to gender equality. Decades of unrelenting pressure, debate, lobbying, and public education by feminist groups have resulted in substantive changes in how Canadian society addresses gender equality agendas and issues. The sections conclude with an observation that the complexities of gender and multiple variables such as income level, economic status, disabilities, age, and cultural differences also have profound impacts on how gender issues may be expressed or challenged. In Canada today, all such challenges demand informed and constructive dialogues and actions.

2. Legislation and Policies

2.1 Canadian Human Rights Act

2.2 Gender Equality in Employment

2.3 Gender Equality in Education

2.4 Gender Equality in Politics

3. Gender Pay Gap

3.1 Causes of the Gender Pay Gap

3.2 Impact of the Gender Pay Gap on Women

3.3 Efforts to Address the Gender Pay Gap

4. Violence Against Women

4.1 Forms of Violence Against Women

4.2 Domestic Violence

4.3 Sexual Assault

4.4 Measures to Combat Violence Against Women

5. Women’s Representation in Leadership

5.1 Women in Corporate Leadership

5.2 Women in Political Leadership

5.3 Challenges and Barriers for Women in Leadership

6. Gender Equality in Healthcare

6.1 Access to Reproductive Health Services

6.2 Gender Bias in Medical Research and Treatment

6.3 Mental Health and Gender Equality

7. Gender Equality in Sports

7.1 Gender Disparity in Sports Funding

7.2 Representation of Women in Sports Media

7.3 Challenges Faced by Female Athletes

8. Intersectionality and Gender Equality

8.1 Intersectionality and its Impact on Gender Equality

8.2 Indigenous Women and Gender Equality

8.3 Gender Equality for LGBTQ+ Individuals

9. Gender Equality in Education

9.1 Gender Stereotypes in Education

9.2 Gender Disparity in STEM Education

9.3 Strategies to Promote Gender Equality in Education

10. Conclusion