Technical Writing Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words - 2

Technical Writing - Essay Example A fire lane is where you should not park. This definition is very poor and inadequate in educating people about safety and driving rules. This is because it can make the intended audience to define all places or spaces where parking is not allowed as a fire lane. This is wrong considering the fact that there are many other places in which parking is not allowed yet they do not qualify to be called fire lane for example pedestrian paths. The definition should indicate where fire lanes are located and their functions. A fire lane refers to a marked lane in a parking space or parking lot that is closer to a structure or building whose function is to allow access of safety equipment to the structure/building or escape route in case of emergency. A crime is a violation of the law. The degree of accuracy of this definition is low and insufficient in explaining what a crime is. This is because not all violations of the law can be regarded as crimes. An example is a breach of contract. This applies to individuals involved and it only qualifies to be called an offence or a wrong. An act can only qualify to be called a crime if it is a wrong against the public. This means it has to be within the parameters of the natural laws of the land. A crime can therefore be defined as a breach of laws or rules for which some authority can prescribe a conviction. Sterilization is the process of sterilizing. This definition is such a poor one and it is very inefficient in explaining what sterilizing means. It is just like saying, â€Å"John is John†, â€Å"a car is a car† instead of explaining who John is, or what a car is. Therefore, the second part of the definition should explain what sterilization actually entails. In this case, it is more scholarly to say that sterilization refers to the removal or killing of all disease-causing organisms from a surface. Activity 11.3 The intended audiences for the explanation of the term consumer are students who are undertaking b usiness studies and the purpose of the definition is to help them understand the position of a consumer in a chain of production and their role in an economy. The term consumer refers to any household or individual that utilizes the goods and/or services produced within an economy. The audience for which the definition of the term depreciation is intended for are senior high school students undertaking business studies and the definition will help them to understand why some assets that have been used are normally sold at a price lower than its initial buying price. By definition, depreciation refers to the decline in the fair value of an asset. The explanation of the term management is intended for students undertaking studies on business administration and this definition will enable them visualize their roles and functions as future managers of various organizations. According to Gomez-Mejia (2008), management refers to the organization and coordination of people and activities o f an organization in accordance to certain policies in order to achieve the organization’s desired goals and objectives. The explanation of the term software is intended for is high school students who are undertaking computer studies and the definition will enable them to understand what enables a computer to perform its various functions and applications. By definition, software refers to a group of computer programs (sequence of instructions) and

Death and Athlete Essay Example for Free

Death and Athlete Essay Title: The title can suggest two different things because dying young can be interpreted differently figuratively and literally. Literally, it would mean that the athlete was dying. Figuratively, it would mean that the athletes career was coming to an end earlier than expected perhaps because he was sick or injured. Paraphrase: The speaker is specifically addressing the athlete dying young but is addressing everyone in general. When you won the town race, everyone congratulated and cheered for you. However, today we bring you home after you finished your long race. Youre smart for leaving the world before glory left you. Though victory and subsequent glory comes early, it withers away faster than a rose. Now since you are dead, you cannot see or hear anything. At least your fame and glory stays with you as you died. Many peoples renown and fame left them before they left. So leave the world before fames echo fades. Then your fame will last forever and you will be well known for your achievement. Connotation: Form This poem is kind of like an eulogy because it praises the athlete who died/is dying young. In stanza 3, the speaker seems to be praising the athlete by stating, Smart lad, to slip betimes away From fields where glory does not stay. Hes basically saying, Yay. Good job on dying young. Diction The diction is relatively easy to read and seems very conventional. This makes it seem as if the poem was not specifically for the athlete or athletes but for everyone. Imagery The imagery makes the poem seem more elegiac. Stanza 3: And early though the laurel grows It withers quicker than the rose. Stanza 7: Will flock to gaze the strengthless dead Point of View The POV seems to be that of a fellow resident of the town the athlete dying young resided in. We chaired you through†¦ we bring you home Details There are a lot of details on life/death and glory/fame. Allusions There is an allusion to the time of the Greeks. It was customary in ancient Greece to crown champion athletes with wreaths with leaves from laurel trees. Stanza 3: And early though the laurel grows. Stanza 7: And round that early-laurelled head Symbolism In stanza 2, the road all runners come symbolizes life and how it eventually leads to death. In stanza 3. the laurel symbolizes glory and fame while the rose symbolizes how beauty/victory/life is ephemeral. Figurative Language In stanza 2, there is a metaphor dealing with the stiller town. Basically, there is a comparison of a cemetery/graveyard to a town. Also, in stanza 4, the shady night is a comparison of night to death. Attitude: Well, at first, I thought the tone was depressing because it was mournful of an athlete who died young. However, the speakers tone seems to be more reverential than mournful because the praises the speaker gives to the athlete makes it seem as if dying young is better. The speaker states that since he died young, his fame/glory is fresh and everlasting and that this is better than runners whom renown outran [them]. Shifts: There is shift from the first stanza to the second stanza and then from the second to the third. From then on the stanzas are mostly positive. The first stanza is quite celebratory. Everyone is celebrating the athlete who won the race. Then in the second stanza, the mood shifts from cheerful to mournful because the athlete now died. After the second stanzas, all the stanzas are more optimistic. It makes early death seems better than long life. Title: My original opinions of the title are quite similar to my current ones. Basically the poem is about a champion athlete who died early. Due to his early death, his fame lingers on because his accomplishments in life will still be remembered. The athlete in the poem literally dies but so does his career as well. However, one thing that doesnt die or decay is the athletes accomplishments. Theme(s): The main theme in this poem is between life/death and glory. Life doesn’t last forever and neither does youth nor fame. Since fame/glory is ephemeral like beauty, if you live for too long after your accomplishments, your fame/glory is bound to wither away before you do. However, if you die with achievements, your renown will be fresh and remembered. Yet the consequence to this is that you have to face bitter death.

Database Management System (DBMS) Software Research

Database Management System (DBMS) Software Research 5-2 FINAL PROJECT MILESTONE THREE: DBMS RESEARCH AND RECOMMENDATION DBMS A.Research and Analysis: A database management system (DBMS) software is employed to manage the organization, storage, access, security and integrity of structured data. It could come as a set of flat files stored on computer tape/disk, or it could consist of database tables that are managed by the system. The different types of DBMS products include: relational, network and hierarchical. Currently, the most widely and commonly used type is the Relational Database Management Systems (RDBMS). (http://dbms.ca/concepts/types.html). In addition to security, one of the biggest advantages of using a DBMS is that it allows end users and application programmers the access and use of the same data while managing data integrity. Data is better protected and maintained since it can be shared using a DBMS, rather than having to create new iterations of the same data to be stored in new files and for every new application. The centrally stored data can be accessed by multiple users in a controlled manner. However, a DBMS that is required to perform additional work to provide these advantages brings with it the overhead. In other words, a DBMS will use more memory and CPU than a simple file storage system, as well as require different types and levels of system resources. (Rouse). Several DBMS applications are currently available: Oracle, IBM, MySQL, Microsoft SQL, Amazon AWS, FileMaker, Teradata, MaraDB, SAP, Adminer, MongoDB, Ingres, Firebird, PostgreSQL, HP Vertica, Alpha, WizeHive, Apache, TeamDesk and Couchbase to name a few. (http://www.capterra.com/database-management-software/#infographic). For over three decades, the primary operational DBMS has been relational. It continues to be dominated by industry giants such as Oracle, Microsoft SQL Server and IBM DB2. Similarities: Each one having been used for production systems all along proves that the technologies involved in these three market-leading products are sound. For Unix and Linux installations, the primary choices are Oracle and IBM DB2. Oracle is the market leader on these platforms. Although other DBMSes in a Linux partition can be run on the mainframe, IBM is ideal for a large organization with a mainframe. For Windows platform, all three are viable options. Naturally, Microsoft is the clear leader on its own OS. All three of the leading DBMS products are highly rated in terms of performance, application development capabilities, support, ease of use and functionality. (Mullins.) Differences: Oracle: Given its installed base and wide platform support, skilled Oracle Database technicians and developers are readily available.   Likewise, an abundance of tools for Oracle database administration, application development and data movement/management are accessible. In short, the ensured skills and tooling are not an issue with Oracle. (Mullins). Function-wise, Oracle keeps pace with many new and advanced features, e.g., JavaScript Object Notation (JSON) support, temporal capabilities and multi-tenancy. The new Oracle Database In-Memory is an option that uses in-memory columnar technology to enable enterprises to accelerate the performance of their business analytics easily and transparently. (Mullins). Overall, customers give Oracle high marks for performance and availability. However, cost-wise, Oracle has a reputation as being expensive to license and support. Additionally, public opinion indicates that in North America and Europe, Oracle ranked lowest in terms of ease of doing business. (Mullins). IBM DB2: This DBMS is Oracles biggest competitor on Unix and Linux OS. DB2 is additionally available on Windows, z/OS mainframe and iSeries midrange servers. Although skilled DB2 developers and DBAs are likely to be more difficult to hire, compared to Oracle, experienced DB2 professionals are not scarce, albeit there is the need to differentiate by platform (e.g., mainframe DB2 for z/OS skills are different and somewhat more difficult to find than for DB2 for LUW; DB2 SQL is almost identical between the z/OS and LUW platforms.) Likewise, there are several developments, data movement and DBA tools available for this DBMS both from IBM and other independent software vendors (ISVs). (Mullins). Functionally speaking, DB2 is regularly revised and updated with market-leading features, (e.g., JSON support, temporal capabilities, shadow tables and advanced compression). With the DB2 SQL compatibility feature, IBM is able to run Oracle applications in DB2 for LUW, requiring no changes to business logic in the client code, triggers or stored procedures. Additionally, the DB2 includes compression capabilities and column store capabilities. (Mullins). Microsoft SQL Server: Its current version is SQL Server 2016. It runs on Linux and MAC and supports numerous Windows versions. Naturally, there are plenty of skilled SQL Server developers and DBAs, just as there are several available tools supporting development, data movement and database administration both from Microsoft and ISVs. SQL Server licenses come with Analysis Services, Integration Services and Reporting Services that provide functionality. These are typically required add-on tools for the other DBMSes (e.g., Oracle and IBM DB2). These added features enable SQL Server customers to minimize their budget for tooling. (Mullins). Technological- and functional-wise, Microsoft keeps current with the market, (features such as stretch database capabilities for integrating on-premises with cloud, strong encryption capabilities, integration of Hadoop with relational data using the Polybase feature and improved in-database analytics capabilities). Microsoft features Azure, its cloud-integration vision for SQL Server. This includes simplified backup to Azure and the ability to set up an Azure virtual machine as an always-on secondary. (Mullins). However, since Microsoft lacks a database appliance (e.g., Oracles Exadata and IBMs PureData System), Microsoft is not a realistic option if one is looking for as a pure plug-and-play database appliance. However, there are third-party appliances available that embed SQL Server. Additionally, Microsoft offers the Microsoft Analytics Platform System, which is an analytics appliance that integrates SQL Server with data from Hadoop (an open-source software framework used to store data and run applications on clusters of commodity hardware). (Mullins). B. Recommendation: Microsoft Access allows users a way to create desktop databases. It is an easy-to-use tool for quickly creating browser-based database applications. Data is automatically stored in a SQL database, so its more secure than ever, and the applications can easily be shared with colleagues. (https://products.office.com/en-us/access). Access, for its simplicity and ease of use, can be appropriate for the organization. The data can be exported into SQL. Although SQL has a steeper learning curb (compared to Access) and based on the advantages listed above, it is recommended that the organization employ Microsoft SQL Server from the start. This will eliminate the need to learn an entirely new/different software application. Additionally, Access is available for purchase or by subscription only, whereas SQL is free to download and use. SQL has plenty of technical support available. This is essential for the owner and his staff, who lack any technical training or background. Skilled developers are in abundance. They can further enhance or develop the database as needed. In addition to SQLs product dependency and reputation, Microsoft has a practice of further developing its products to meet the demands of the market, to satisfy its customers and to stay in competition. All the above benefits ensure that as the organization grows, the database system can grow along side, without the need to switch. C.Hardware, Software Recommendation: Vince Roberts, the owner of Vinces Vinyl, is not technologically savvy. He requires the most fundamental training. Both recommended software applications provide plentiful online support in the forms of manuals, tutorials and videos. He has been using and is accustomed to a Windows 8 computer. He has no plans to switch to another platform any time soon. With either or both recommended software, he is not required to upgrade his system. Additionally, he is beginning to become familiar with and comfortable using his Android tablet and smart phone. Eventually, he would like to be able to access his database using all available devices and from any location. Both or either cloud-based Access and Microsoft SQL Server data can be accessed through the means available to him.

Economics, Accounting, Finance and Management :: MBA College Admissions Essays

Having a flair for Economics and accounting I have decided that I want a degree in Accounting and Finance or Management. The many brilliant representatives of the management community around the world have strengthened that resolve. When I worked in my school as a tutor of English as a Second Language for students from a community school in Muscat, I realized the importance of a strong leader who could organize, command respect, and be able to work well with others. These ideas were further enforced by my month long internship at Novartis Pharmaceutical (Accounts and Finance Department and Human Resources Department). I attended the Harvard Model Congress in Paris and won the Award of Distinction. One skill in particular that contributed to this award was my confident public speaking.    The last 4 months have been crucial in my learning of real world business and economics. For my IB Extended Essay, titled "To What Extent Does Subway in Oman Operate as an Oligopoly", I set out to prove the oligpolistic structure of the fast food market in Oman. In this effort, I have come across many real life complexities in pricing behaviour, profit making and other aspects of the Theory of the Firm. While attempting to explain these alternate theories of firms I have developed a keen interest in analyzing and understanding how the world of business works.    After an undergraduate degree in accounting and finance or management I plan to go onto post graduate studies and work on an MBA. A strong performance in a BA will allow me to move onto an MBA and only then shall I be satisfied.      For the last four years I have been part of our schools volleyball team ICE. We have retained our ISAC (Inter Schools Activities Conference, Middle East) title for four years. Playing in the power hitters (spiker) position requires immense physical fitness and to accomplish that I regularly go to the gym for fitness training. I am also part of my school track and field team. Being the fastest sprinter in the school since 11th grade the 100m, 200m and 400m races are my specialty even though I still pursue long distance running. In my spare time I explore and master the computer as I am conversant with a Visual Basic Programming course.

Importance of parental involvement in their children education Essay

Substantial quantity of research has been conducted in the area of parental role in their children academic achievement and adjustment. Parental involvement in their children educational activities at early stages involves both creating an enabling environment at home that foster academic attainment and direct involvement in literal skills (Gillian and Bernadette 2006). This is in a view that pupils have two categories of teachers: parents and teachers at school. Generally, research show that there is an increased parental involvement in their children’s education at early stages of about 92 percent, with women showing more commitment as compared to men (Maxwell and Johnson 2002). However, the outstanding question remains to be how parental involvement is done best to facilitate children achievement. In response to this question, Moore and Wade (2000) states that parents as prime educators of a child have a significant influence on the children’s learning in schools and beyond schooling to social, economical mindset and cognitive development. The parent involvement at school level includes assisting children during lunch times and providing necessary study materials for their children such as chats. While at home parents get involved in their children’s educational activities by teaching their children nursery rhymes or/and songs, reading together, narrating poems or stories together and assist with assignments or homework. This learning activities to a great extend do help the children attain literacy skills, discipline due to association and modeling from parents, socialization benefits and the boost in their cognitive abilities especially memory (Moore and Wade 2000). The body of research available indicates that parental involvement in their children learning activities influences their learning positively. The areas that are greatly affected positively are outstanding: overall academic performance, cognitive competence; fewer indiscipline problems due to low delinquency level and discipline maintenance by parents; problem solving-skills resulting from parental guidance in problem solving skills; and fewer cases of absenteeism due to greater school enjoyment (Gillian and Bernadette 2006). Research conducted by Sammons et al. (2001), found out that the learning activities that the parents engage in with their children at home have a positive impact on the children’s social and cognitive or intellectual development as a result of child-parent attachment (Sammons et al. 2001). Therefore, this finding implies that what parents do to their children in terms of their learning whether formal or informal is better than what they are to their children. Hence, it is inherent that parental income, educational background or parental occupation does not precede their contribution to their children intellectual development. Similarly, research on children’s literal skills in relation to their parent involvement in their education activities overwhelmingly supports positive influence (Porsche, Jordan and Snow 2000). Child-parent involvement in reading activities at home has impact on two dimensions about language aspects. First, the impact on learning activities usually includes attainment of language expressive skills, achievement in reading tasks and language comprehension (Moore and Wade 2000). Second dimension, involves cultivation and facilitation of the child’s attentiveness in reading lessons or sessions, reading interest and a positive attitude for reading (Gillian and Bernadette 2006). These two achievable dimensions through child-parent involvement create an incentive for reading skills and the necessary mechanisms that help support the incentive for reading. Parental involvement in their children academic activities is linked to the child’s benefit in terms of formal literacy learning. The leading child-parent academic activity like reading is an important determinant of child’s emergent literacy and language attainment. Moreover, the children introduced to books by their parents early ages they usually have a good head start and an overall advantage over their counterparts in primary (Porsche, Jordan and Snow 2000; Moore and Wade 2000). More empathically, the research shows the more the children and their parent are involved in literacy skills like speaking, reading, writing of language and numbers, and listening; the more long-lasting effect of retention to the child. Furthermore, parental influence is strongest in the reading subject to young pupils as compared to other subject as children demonstrate they can imitate their parent’s voices and pronunciations while reading (Moore and Wade 2000). Therefore, it should be seen that this strong reading influence is important in the sense that reading skill is basic to all subjects successful understanding and learning. Additionally, the parental influence demonstrated through their interest in their children’s education has a positive influence for teenage age of 16 (Gillian and Bernadette 2006). Findings by Sammons et al. (2001) reveals that parental involvement in their children’s learning environment and support go beyond educational and literacy attainment. This finding demonstrate that children that and good intimacy, attachment and interaction with their parents exhibited greater emotional and social development especially in a nuclear family set up. Most of the areas of emotional and social development are life satisfaction, self-control and self-direction, good mental health, resilience to stress, stable and positive relationships resulting to stable marriages and social adjustment is excellent. Conclusion In conclusion, this paper indicate that parents involvement in their children’s education activities has positive influence on the children’s educational outcomes; the view widely supported by research. The major dimension that child-parent interaction in educational activities are: academic performance, cognitive competence, fewer indiscipline problems, problem solving-skills, and fewer cases of absenteeism. Moreover, the strongest and important influence is the long-lasting reading skill that is crucial excelling in other subject areas. Therefore, parents ought to encourage continuing their involvement in their children’s learning. Bibliography Gillian P, Bernadette D 2006, Contemporary Issues in the Early Year, SAGE, London Maxwell S. & Johnson, L 2002, â€Å"A five-year longitudinal study on Parental involvement in the development of children’s reading skill† Child Development, 74, (12), 442-456. Moore, M & Wade, B 2000, A sure start with books, Early Years, 21, 33-48 Porsche, MV, Jordan, GE, & Snow, CE 2000, â€Å"The effect of a family literacy project on kindergarten students’ early literacy skills: Project EASE†, Reading Research Quarterly, 36, 521-531. Sammons, P et al. 2001, EPPE project on Cognitive, Behavioral and Social development at 3 to 4 years in relation to family background. The effective provision of pre-school education, The Institute of Education, London

About the United States Postal Service (USPS)

About the United States Postal Service (USPS) Early History of the U.S. Postal Service The United States Postal Service first began moving the mail on July 26, 1775, when the Second Continental Congress named Benjamin Franklin as the nations first Postmaster General. In accepting the position, Franklin dedicated his efforts to fulfilling George Washingtons vision. Washington, who championed a free flow of information between citizens and their government as a cornerstone of freedom, often spoke of a nation bound together by a system of postal roads and post offices. Publisher William Goddard (1740-1817) first suggested the idea of an organized U.S. postal service in 1774, as a way to pass the latest news past the prying eyes of colonial British postal inspectors. Goddard formally proposed a postal service to Congress nearly two years before the  adoption of the Declaration of Independence. Congress took no action on Goddards plan until after the battles of Lexington and Concord in the spring of 1775. On July 16, 1775, with revolution brewing, Congress enacted the Constitutional Post as a way to ensure communication between the general populace and the patriots preparing to fight for Americas independence. Goddard was reported to have been deeply disappointed when Congress chose Franklin as Postmaster General. The Postal Act of 1792 further defined the role of the Postal Service. Under the act, newspapers were allowed in the mail  at low rates to promote the spread of information across the states. To ensure the sanctity and privacy of the mails, postal officials were forbidden to open any letters in their charge unless they were determined to be  undeliverable. The Post Office Department issued its first postage stamps on July 1, 1847. Previously, letters were taken to a Post Office, where the postmaster would note the postage in the upper right corner. The postage rate was based on the number of sheets in the letter and the distance it would travel. Postage could be paid in advance by the writer, collected from the addressee on delivery, or paid partially in advance and partially upon delivery. For a complete history of the early Postal Service, visit the USPS Postal History website. The Modern Postal Service: Agency or Business? Until the  adoption of the Postal Reorganization Act of 1970, the U.S. Postal Service functioned as a regular, tax-supported, agency of the federal government. According to the laws under which it now operates, the U.S. Postal Service is a semi-independent federal agency, mandated to be revenue-neutral. That is, it is supposed to break even, not make a profit. In 1982, U.S. postage stamps became postal products, rather than a form of taxation. Since then, the bulk of the cost of operating the postal system has been paid for by customers through the sale of postal products and services rather than taxes. Each class of mail is also expected to cover its share of the costs, a requirement that causes the percentage rate adjustments to vary in different classes of mail, according  to the costs associated with the processing and delivery characteristics of each class. According to the costs of operations, U.S. Postal Service rates are set by the Postal Regulatory Commission according to the recommendations of the Postal Board of Governors. Look, the USPS is an Agency! The USPS is created as a government agency under Title 39, Section 101.1 of the United States Code which states, in part: (a) The United States Postal Service shall be operated as a basic and fundamental service provided to the people by the Government of the United States, authorized by the Constitution, created by Act of Congress, and supported by the people. The Postal Service shall have as its basic function the obligation to provide postal services to bind the Nation together through the personal, educational, literary, and business correspondence of the people. It shall provide prompt, reliable, and efficient services to patrons in all areas and shall render postal services to all communities. The costs of establishing and maintaining the Postal Service shall not be apportioned to impair the overall value of such service to the people. Under paragraph (d) of Title 39, Section 101.1, Postal rates shall be established to apportion the costs of all postal operations to all users of the mail on a fair and equitable basis. No, the USPS is a Business! the Postal Service takes on some several very non-governmental attributes via the powers granted to it under Title 39, Section 401, which include: power to sue (and be sued) under its own name;power to adopt, amend and repeal its own regulations;power to enter into and perform contracts, execute instruments, and determine the character of, and the necessity for, its expenditures;power to buy, sell and lease private property; and,power to build, operate, lease and maintain buildings and facilities. All of which are typical functions and powers of a private business. However, unlike other private businesses, the Postal Service is exempt from paying federal taxes. USPS can borrow money at discounted rates and can condemn and acquire private property under governmental rights of eminent domain. The USPS does get some taxpayer support. Around $96 million is budgeted annually by Congress for the Postal Service Fund. These funds are used to compensate USPS for postage-free mailing for all legally blind persons and for mail-in election ballots sent from US citizens living overseas. A portion of the funds also pays USPS for providing address information to state and local child support enforcement agencies. Under federal law, only the Postal Service can handle or charge postage for handling letters. Despite this virtual monopoly worth some $45 billion a year, the law merely requires the Postal Service to remain revenue neutral, neither making a profit or suffering a loss. How is the Postal Service ‘Business’ Doing Financially? Though intended to be a self-funding entity, the Postal Service has suffered a dismal string of financial losses since the 1970s, when it sometimes at least broke even. After the Great Recession of 2008, the volume of advertising mail- the vast majority of mail- dropped sharply as many businesses switched to less-costly email correspondence. Since then, mail volume has continued to drop, creating a crisis for a business whose costs are all but guaranteed to rise annually. For example, the number of addresses to which the USPS must deliver increases constantly. In FY2018, the USPS suffered what it called a â€Å"controllable† operating deficit of $3.9 billion and reports that it expects costs to continue to rise in FY2019. â€Å"Compensation and benefits expenses are planned to increase by $1.1 billion in FY2019, due to wage increases by $0.6 billion resulting from contractual general increases and cost-of-living adjustments.† In addition, the agency sees its retiree health benefits and transportation expenses to increase by $1 billion in FY2019.

Equal Protection

Equal Protection Equal Protection is described as "the right of all persons to have the same access to the law and courts and to be treated equally by the law and courts, both in procedures and in the substance of the law". It is similar to the right to due process of law, but in particular applies to equal treatment as an aspect of fundamental fairness. The equal protection clause can be found in the Fourteenth Amendment of the Constitution. It simply states that, "No state shall make or enforce any law which shall abridge the privileges or immunities of citizens of the United States...nor deny to any person within its jurisdiction the equal protection of the laws." In other words, this meant that the Constitution would become 'color-blind'. Military members of all branches are entitled to these fundamental rights.The U.S. Navy Regulation states that equal protection under the law regardless of race, religion, culture, national origin, gender or political affiliation, is a recognized fundamental hum an right for all people, including military personnel.United StatesThe Regulation goes on to say that equal opportunity shall be afforded to all on the basis of individual effort, performance, conduct, diligence, potential, capabilities and talents without discrimination as to race, color, religion, creed, sex or national origin. It also states that naval personnel shall demonstrate a strong personal commitment to stand on these principles and carry them out. The U.S. Army has a similar statement. The U.S. Army Regulation states that they will provide equal opportunity and treatment for soldiers, civilian employees, and their families without regard to race, color, religion, gender, or national origin. There are several benefits of equal protection for military members. These benefits include high morale of the military members, confidence in the fairness of decisions, selection of the most capable personnel...

Free Essays on Walt Whitman “A Noiseless Patient Spider“ And Muriel Rukeyser “Myth“

In the two poems, "A Noiseless Patient Spider" and "Myth", the poets use differing grammatical and discoursive forms such as first and third person, narration technique including dialogue and first person storytelling. It is through these methods that the authors are able to express their ideas to us in their own specific ways, manipulating mood, tone, perspective, enviornment, etc. They can give us a broader perspective utilizing third person, or they can bar us from the mind of other characters limiting us to the main character through first person. These methods give stories their own unique feel, as we shall see how. In "A Noiseless Patient Spider", Whitman uses a first person perspective to communicate the story to us. Through first person, we become Whitmans observer, watching the spider with him and through him. Our perception is limited to Whitman himself, observing the spider in it's patient work, analyzing it with his mind. For instance we are not allowed to see things through the spiders eyes, as it weaves away, unbeknowist as to what it is thinking or that which motivates it to do it's patient work, we only see Whitman's idea. Perhaps the spider is simply following impulses that drive it, and it hungers realizing the web to be the method for which to satiate that hunger. In essence we are perceptually restricted in a realistic way. I believe this connects us more intimately to the character in which we view the world from, and serves to simulate reality more accurately than other methods such as third person. Now, when we look at "Myth", we are expanded to a third person point of view. The contrast to Whitman is noticeable, and the story feels different to us. This is because we perceive the story not from Oedipus, nor from the Sphinx, but through the eyes of an invisible observer. The feeling is no longer personal, but transient and God-like. The poem takes the form of a social dialogue between two individuals, a... Free Essays on Walt Whitman â€Å"A Noiseless Patient Spiderâ€Å" And Muriel Rukeyser â€Å"Mythâ€Å" Free Essays on Walt Whitman â€Å"A Noiseless Patient Spiderâ€Å" And Muriel Rukeyser â€Å"Mythâ€Å" In the two poems, "A Noiseless Patient Spider" and "Myth", the poets use differing grammatical and discoursive forms such as first and third person, narration technique including dialogue and first person storytelling. It is through these methods that the authors are able to express their ideas to us in their own specific ways, manipulating mood, tone, perspective, enviornment, etc. They can give us a broader perspective utilizing third person, or they can bar us from the mind of other characters limiting us to the main character through first person. These methods give stories their own unique feel, as we shall see how. In "A Noiseless Patient Spider", Whitman uses a first person perspective to communicate the story to us. Through first person, we become Whitmans observer, watching the spider with him and through him. Our perception is limited to Whitman himself, observing the spider in it's patient work, analyzing it with his mind. For instance we are not allowed to see things through the spiders eyes, as it weaves away, unbeknowist as to what it is thinking or that which motivates it to do it's patient work, we only see Whitman's idea. Perhaps the spider is simply following impulses that drive it, and it hungers realizing the web to be the method for which to satiate that hunger. In essence we are perceptually restricted in a realistic way. I believe this connects us more intimately to the character in which we view the world from, and serves to simulate reality more accurately than other methods such as third person. Now, when we look at "Myth", we are expanded to a third person point of view. The contrast to Whitman is noticeable, and the story feels different to us. This is because we perceive the story not from Oedipus, nor from the Sphinx, but through the eyes of an invisible observer. The feeling is no longer personal, but transient and God-like. The poem takes the form of a social dialogue between two individuals, a...

Discussion Of The Impacts Of Introduction Of Tennis Racket On Coaching Essay

Discussion Of The Impacts Of Introduction Of Tennis Racket On Coaching - Essay Example With most sports, coaches of tennis are reluctant about the standard of applying the information to bring out the real nature of excellence in playing tennis. The scoreboard does not always tell how well someone really played, rather it shows how the player who had the better day. With no application of the modern technology performance scores such as the first-serve percentage, approaches of the net can only be determined accurately through a win or a loss. Coaches often chart matches and practices for their trainees, to clear this out. But with most of those training do not have a coach watching every move they make and checking on their progress. Introduce the Babolat pure play drive. In conclusion, we can say that one of the most challenging and rewarding parts of coaching is being able to coordinate with the players during their growth from childhood up to adulthood. The coach needs to understand their players’ emotions, reactions, and their progress in mental growth. A coach who coordinate well with the players through understanding the changes that come along physically, emotionally, and mentally stands in a better position to effectively communicate with the players with no barriers or challenges and in a case of any problem along the way they will be able to handle it perfectly. Technology is a crucial doctrine in sports since the introduction of modern technology has seen different sports make big and commendable progress. However, our focus was on the tennis game and the impacts of these modern technology introductions.

Personal project Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Personal project - Essay Example The mission of the company Beautiful World, describes how the company aims to server its key stakeholders who may include customers, investors, employees and the general society. The company’s mission therefore focuses on recognizing the various talents that are available all over the world and offering the opportunities to those talents. The company therefore has the simple mission of offering responsible shopping with the intention leading to a highly conscious consumer practice. Furthermore, the company focus on various educational seminars that would compound leading talented artists to improve the economic status of the world through collaborative efforts. Finally, the company also aims towards building benevolent strategic plans that are centered on appropriate values, awareness, and social impact. The vision of the company on the other hand tends to declare the aspirations and purpose of the company. The company’s vision is therefore to connect individuals to a world that is beyond their reach and imagination, through the collaboration of diligent groups of artisans found in some of the world’s most impoverished regions. In addition, the company focuses upon developing modern and conscious design products which allow the artists to gain access to broader markets thus alleviating their economic status, consequently improving the general quality of their lives. Furthermore, the company also aims to connect the various talented artists through developing different models that can allow them to share their stories so that to ensure that every piece of art purchased matters to the buyers. Comparatively, Beautiful World has various set of objectives and strategies that could help them to attain their mission and vision. For instance, the company establishes a platform for responsible shopping through the creation of the market

Discussion 14 702 Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Discussion 14 702 - Assignment Example This leads to inefficiency and ineffectiveness and identifies significance of the program in facilitating development and application of contemporary nursing knowledge. The program has also informed me of the contemporary knowledge (Sieloff & Frey, 2007) and its diversity and applicability (Fawcett & DeSanto-Madeya, 2012). I am therefore prepared to assume an active role in development and use of contemporary nursing knowledge and in advocacy for mass transition to reliance on the knowledge for practice. I envision myself as a leader and an advocate of evidence based practice, and I shall pursue the vision through a number of strategies. I shall conduct and publish empirical based studies on effectiveness of evidence-based study in solving healthcare issues and use the results to advocate for the practice. I shall also rely on evidence-based practice in my clinical practice and seek diligence with the aim of demonstrating advantages of the practice. In addition, I shall motivate individuals, teams, and the entire organization through setting examples and through empowering nurses into evidence based practice. I shall rely on my organization’s top management to develop policies for application of evidence-based practice and to avail resources for the same. Resistance is expected at different levels of the organization due to financial implications and required change but I plan to use situational leadership style, with focus on charismatic and transformational styles, in ensur ing change towards use of evidence based practice (Kelly & Tazbir,

Dissertation Topic in Financial Management Essay

Dissertation Topic in Financial Management - Essay Example Markets have become globalised, yet tax structures have remained national. Open borders cause exaggerated tax competition, which in turn leads to a race to the companies. Transparency of financial markets means correct management of all information related to capital flows that also include full tax revenue. Although developing countries have often been reprimanded for their insufficient and malfunctioning financial and tax systems, they are not the only guilty parties for the failure of system. There is a vital activity from both on a national and international scale is the necessary task to control the general loss of revenue. International tax competition and harmful tax practices are providing more and more opportunities for some parties to escape their tax obligations. In this scenario the burden of taxation will be shifted to some other segments like ordinary citizens. The issue of additional clarity and freedom in exchanges of information between countries with regards to tax matters has become necessary to help many tax administrations to deal effectively in the context of the globalization of world economies. Hence the current study proposes to identify the tax scenario in the global finance markets Also the study intends to observe the global initiative and the regulations to clear out the and the disparities between the ability of developed and developing countries to obtain and provide the required information for the effective control of harmful tax competition and tax evasion issues. By doing such study the current research intends to make some recommendations to strengthen the current tax system of global financial market. Research Problem Area: Tax issue in the global finance markets. Research Objectives: To observe the scenario of global financial markets To identify the tax issues in the international trade To analyze the regulations from national and international bodies To make recommendations to strengthen the tax system Research approach: The research study of 'Tax issue in the global finance markets' is proposed to follow Qualitative study methodology.. Data collection method: The Data collection is proposed mainly through Secondary data (research & opinion) and Observation of status of international trade and tax system and the regulations and policy framework. Key areas Associated with the Research: The study intends to observe the literature review on the following aspects 1. Overview of International financial markets The foreign exchange market "Offshore" markets Offshore financial centres International banking and "global trading" 2. The globalization of financial markets: theory and practice Financial markets' integration The different flows of capital Regulatory environment The government's role in financial markets 3. Taxing issue: Requirements of Tax system for international finance market Taxing capital in a multinational environment: tax competition, tax coordination and tax harmonization Tax competition: a virtue or a problem 4. Tax Evasion Global challenges of Tax evasion Relationship between tax rates and tax evasion Electronic payments and taxing Offshore tax evasion Tax heavens Tax shelters Models to incorporate tax evasion Money laundering and

Writing Business Letters 1 Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words - 2

Writing Business Letters 1 - Essay Example In this case, two wrongs would not make a right. It is better for the medical team involved to pursue ways and means of saving the life of the stronger twin than allow the death of both the conjoined twins. The religious position held by the parents of the twins would surmount to double tragedy since it would result to the death of both the twins. It is also in order for the medical fraternity to preserve the right of children by trying to save the life of at least one of the twins. This will be in line with their professional ethics. The religious stance in most of such cases advocates for life rather than death. Therefore, the judges’ decision however moral and legal is also religiously sound. This is because their decision they made echoed the religious principle of saving life. In cases of life and death, preserving life would be more moral and pragmatic. Therefore, the court’s decision in this matter to disregard the parent’s religious opinions is

Topic Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words - 5

Topic - Essay Example The countries that may be taking this place may include China and India. Therefore, in spite of the advancement of the U.S, which ought to support the most important aspects such as education, the country’s education system is lagging behind due to reasons that can be resolved through development of better policies. One of the reasons behind this deterioration is that the Americans students are not being taught the relevant subjects. Here, the system is teaching today’s students yesterday’s subjects. The world has developed and the system keeps on teaching the same issues making the American students unfit for the workplace. This is the reason why the employers in the U.S have been finding it difficult to get the skills that they require in the workplace. This may be the key reason why students from other countries have been getting employment easily in the U.S and the unemployment rates in the country continue to rise. Therefore, for this reason, employers are finding it easier to outsource from foreign countries than from the U.S (Kaminski). Additionally, the American education is the easiest worldwide. This implies that it does not challenge the students but involves reading of a script and sitting for an exam. However, it does not teach the students the skills that they will require in the workplace as well as the resilience required in the modern business world, which is highly competitive. The American students are taught to follow what has been the behaviour of previous generations instead of showing them how to question what has been taking place throughout history. This has been reducing their capabilities to be innovative and creative when they join the employment world. In addition, the lack of challenging education has been denying them the chance to get problem resolution and decision making skills, which are crucial to the employers and form the requirements for working in modern business environments

Dissertation Topic in Financial Management Essay

Dissertation Topic in Financial Management - Essay Example Markets have become globalised, yet tax structures have remained national. Open borders cause exaggerated tax competition, which in turn leads to a race to the companies. Transparency of financial markets means correct management of all information related to capital flows that also include full tax revenue. Although developing countries have often been reprimanded for their insufficient and malfunctioning financial and tax systems, they are not the only guilty parties for the failure of system. There is a vital activity from both on a national and international scale is the necessary task to control the general loss of revenue. International tax competition and harmful tax practices are providing more and more opportunities for some parties to escape their tax obligations. In this scenario the burden of taxation will be shifted to some other segments like ordinary citizens. The issue of additional clarity and freedom in exchanges of information between countries with regards to tax matters has become necessary to help many tax administrations to deal effectively in the context of the globalization of world economies. Hence the current study proposes to identify the tax scenario in the global finance markets Also the study intends to observe the global initiative and the regulations to clear out the and the disparities between the ability of developed and developing countries to obtain and provide the required information for the effective control of harmful tax competition and tax evasion issues. By doing such study the current research intends to make some recommendations to strengthen the current tax system of global financial market. Research Problem Area: Tax issue in the global finance markets. Research Objectives: To observe the scenario of global financial markets To identify the tax issues in the international trade To analyze the regulations from national and international bodies To make recommendations to strengthen the tax system Research approach: The research study of 'Tax issue in the global finance markets' is proposed to follow Qualitative study methodology.. Data collection method: The Data collection is proposed mainly through Secondary data (research & opinion) and Observation of status of international trade and tax system and the regulations and policy framework. Key areas Associated with the Research: The study intends to observe the literature review on the following aspects 1. Overview of International financial markets The foreign exchange market "Offshore" markets Offshore financial centres International banking and "global trading" 2. The globalization of financial markets: theory and practice Financial markets' integration The different flows of capital Regulatory environment The government's role in financial markets 3. Taxing issue: Requirements of Tax system for international finance market Taxing capital in a multinational environment: tax competition, tax coordination and tax harmonization Tax competition: a virtue or a problem 4. Tax Evasion Global challenges of Tax evasion Relationship between tax rates and tax evasion Electronic payments and taxing Offshore tax evasion Tax heavens Tax shelters Models to incorporate tax evasion Money laundering and

Topic Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words - 5

Topic - Essay Example The countries that may be taking this place may include China and India. Therefore, in spite of the advancement of the U.S, which ought to support the most important aspects such as education, the country’s education system is lagging behind due to reasons that can be resolved through development of better policies. One of the reasons behind this deterioration is that the Americans students are not being taught the relevant subjects. Here, the system is teaching today’s students yesterday’s subjects. The world has developed and the system keeps on teaching the same issues making the American students unfit for the workplace. This is the reason why the employers in the U.S have been finding it difficult to get the skills that they require in the workplace. This may be the key reason why students from other countries have been getting employment easily in the U.S and the unemployment rates in the country continue to rise. Therefore, for this reason, employers are finding it easier to outsource from foreign countries than from the U.S (Kaminski). Additionally, the American education is the easiest worldwide. This implies that it does not challenge the students but involves reading of a script and sitting for an exam. However, it does not teach the students the skills that they will require in the workplace as well as the resilience required in the modern business world, which is highly competitive. The American students are taught to follow what has been the behaviour of previous generations instead of showing them how to question what has been taking place throughout history. This has been reducing their capabilities to be innovative and creative when they join the employment world. In addition, the lack of challenging education has been denying them the chance to get problem resolution and decision making skills, which are crucial to the employers and form the requirements for working in modern business environments

Autobiographical Film vs Autobiographical Prose Essay Example for Free

Autobiographical Film vs Autobiographical Prose Essay Autobiographical film, like prose, is filled with the memories of the major events in ones life. In prose, authors give detailed descriptions of their past, while in film directors are able to employ visuals and the use of song and voice-over to illustrate someone elses life or his or her own. Autobiographies are supposed to portray ones life truthfully and accurately; however, most contain stretched truths and over-dramatized events or emotions. In the film medium there is more opportunity for fiction than in prose. Jonathan Caouettes Tarnation and Agnes Vardas The Beaches of Agnes are two differing documentaries that explore this idea. Throughout these two documentaries the directors make use of visuals and sound effects to elicit an emotional reaction from the viewers. The use of these effects allows the audience to better understand how the director remembers a certain event and how it affects them. One of the frequently used elements in documentaries is re-enactment. While this can be helpful in portraying an event, if you dont have real footage it allows for over dramatization and interpretation from the actor playing the role. The actor can listen to how the director wants it to be however they could never fully portray the event truthfully because they were not present for the actual event. This allows for major discrepancies in the retelling of ones past. In a review of Tarnation Michael Bronski discusses how the extent of horrific psychic and medical destruction here is overwhelming (if not based on fact, Tarnation would play like a second rate John Waters film). The reality of the film reminds audiences of the fragility of life and how quickly things can change. Bronski goes on to discuss how the facts of Tarnation really give the film power, emphasizing the idea that truth can evoke just as powerful a reaction as a manipulated re-enactment. Using re-enactments in autobiographical film can force the audience to wonder about the level of truth in a scene. Has the scene been manipulated because it was more entertaining than the actual event or did the actor allow his or her own interpretation of the event to seep through and create an entirely new scene? Caouette filmed the majority of his life; therefore, the use of re-enactment was unnecessary. This almost constant day to day filming really helped to capture the essence of Jonathans life and how he viewed everything that was happening. Though Caouette filmed almost every day, the film wasnt presented in raw form. Tarnation was edited down and pieced together. Throughout the film there were moments where editing was more obvious than others. Specifically the scene where Jonathan is on the phone with someone from the hospital. He is checking on his mothers condition after a Lithium overdose. In between the scenes of that phone conversation there is a clip of him vomiting. The audience later learns that this is because he is severely ill as a result of the stress. When this scene is shown, the sounds of him vomiting are hear but visually it looks as though he is simply coughing into the toilet. This leads the viewer to believe that perhaps this was placed there for dramatic effect. Another example would be the way the entire first scene is presented. It is clear the phone conversation has been cut and spliced. One scene is of Jonathan completely crumbling emotionally from the news of his mothers health, it lasts only for a second and then in the following scene hes completely collected and calm. It is evident that it is being presented to evoke a specific reaction from the audience rather then presenting it truthfully as it actually happened. Fiction can also find its way into autobiographic film in that people behave differently when in front of a camera. They might see it necessary to put on a show rather than be themselves because of their discomfort with being documented. In many scenes when Jonathan is filming Renee she becomes very excited and begins to behave in a way that makes her look as if she is acting for the camera instead of just being herself. Another example of altered behavior because of the presence of the camera would be when Jonathan confronts his grandfather Adolph about his decision for Renee to undergo shock therapy. Adolph becomes very defensive and begins to close himself off because of the camera. He says to Jonathan Take that away, take that away, I dont want to be photographed by him. People begin to worry more about the way they come across once they realize that they are being closely watched and documented. In Agnes Vardas The Beaches of Agnes, Varda uses quite a few re-enactments to illustrate scenes from her childhood. Haden Guest discusses Beaches in Emotion Picture. She focuses mostly on her style as she recreated the memorable moments of her past. Guest writes, The re-creation of childhood memories in evocatively restaged family photographs to the more abstract recreation of Varda and her crew assembling a fragile, open-air gallery of mirrors on a gusty beach. Audiences either find these recreations of past events helpful in gaining a better understanding of Vardas life or somewhat dishonest and overly staged. Again, re-enactments sort of lose the truth and allow the director to manipulate the audience into feeling one way about whatever it is they are presenting. Varda also chose to include footage of her and the crew working on the film, however its left up to the audience to decide whether this is a moment of authenticity or yet another staged manipulation for entertainment sake. Throughout Agnes Vardas film she has many imaginative scenes. There are scenes of her staring blankly into the camera and walking backwards through places she once lived. Though this is in the film to illustrate that she is going backwards in time to tell her story it takes way from the portrayal of her story. Its included in the film for an artistic purpose rather than for one of truth and accuracy. In one scene her friend Chris Marker appears in the image of a cat and his voice is distorted to sound like a robot of sorts in a staged conversation with Varda. This scene, among many others, seems very whimsical and far from what actually took place in her past. Aside from fictitious imaginative scenes, The Beaches of Agnes strays from the autobiographical film genre, in that when Varda explores her past she ends up becoming more interested in something that she discovers on this journey that has nothing to do with her story. When she returns to her childhood home she becomes fascinated with the elderly doctor who now owns it rather than focusing on the life she lived there. In his review on Beaches, Haden Guest writes †¦the film frequently wanders away from its purported subject in order to learn more about the various people encountered along the way. Its as if she is making two movies, one about her past and the other about the people she met on the journey to making the film, but attempting to put them all into one. It seems the goal of The Beaches of Agnes is not to serve as a confessional narrative but an exploration into her past with a focus on the people she encountered rather than on herself. In film it is very easy for fiction to slip in and take control for entertainment value, whereas in prose there is a lesser opportunity. Both Jonathan Caouette and Agnes Vardas styles of filming allow for fiction, whether it be through editing, reenactment or other elements of film. Each of these directors classify their films in the autobiographical genre which means their films should present their lives truthfully and accurately. However, in both films it is clear that each director has manipulated footage or used reenactments to present their lives in a different way. Neither film is one hundred percent truthful. These films should not contain over dramatizations or stretched truths. When tackling the genre of autobiographical film it is important to portray oneself and ones story in an honest light.

Obesity: History, BMI Classification, Determinants and Effects

Obesity: History, BMI Classification, Determinants and Effects OBESITY Obesity is fast becoming a serious epidemic in the United States due partly to eating habits and physical inactivity amongst Americans. According to the Centre for Disease Control, Seventy-three percent of adults and 43 percent of all children in the United States are overweight or obese. Among African-Americans 20 years and over, more than two-thirds are overweight or obese (Gaines, 2010). Generally, the rate of overweight and obesity are higher for African-American and Hispanic women than Caucasian women, higher in the south and Midwest and increases with age (Ogden et al., 2014; Gregg et al., 2009; Sherry et al., 2010). According to the World Health Organization, body mass index (BMI) of an obese person has a value greater than or equal to thirty. Type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure are two diseases that ultimately affect African Americans and this is predominantly caused by an increase in weight as those extra pounds predisposes a person to these diseases (Gaines, 2010). Obes ity is one of the primary risk factor for heart diseases, diabetes and a number of cancers and these are major causes of death in American today. The health implication of obesity and the complications associated with it is increasingly becoming more detrimental than cigarette smoking and has therefore become one of the major preventable causes of death worldwide. This investigation paper focuses on the brief history of obesity; this will take obesity from its discovery over 2000 years to this present day. An understanding of the BMI classification, aetiological determinants, pathophysiology and health effects is important if obesity prevalence will be curtailed. Furthermore, the socio economic impact of obesity management on the United States economy will be looked into. Finally, its treatment options, prevention and trends of the disease will be discussed. HISTORY OF OBESITY The Ancient Greeks were the first to acknowledge obesity as a health disorder and this was further recognized by the Ancient Egyptians in a similar way. According to Hippocrates, corpulence is not only a disease itself, but the harbinger of other diseases (Haslam & James, 2005). Hippocrates which was the Ancient Greek Father of Western medicine acknowledged obesity in his work and details of various diseases including diabetes was first given by him. Another Indian surgeon Sushruta, also discovered the association between obesity, diabetes and heart diseases and he was the first person to find out the significant signs, symptoms, causes and health implications. In the Ancient days, man always strived for food due to scarcity or famine and this resulted in obesity being regarded as a sign of wealth and good fortune in the middle age. However, all this changed when the scientific society of the 20th century revealed the medical implications of obesity (Caballero B., 2007) With the inception of the industrial revolution, body size and strength of soldiers and workers became pertinent as this was attributed to the military and economic power of Nations (Caballero, 2007). The increase in the average body mass index from underweight to the normal on the BMI charts played an important role in the development of industrialized societies (Caballero, 2007).   Therefore in the 19th century, there was an increase in weight and height generally. However, during the 20th century, the genetic potentials for height was reached and this resulted to weight increasing more than height in this century and thus resulted in the average increase in BMI (Caballero, 2007). In human evolution, for the first time, the number of adults with excess weight exceeded the number of those who were underweight which further led to obesity (Caballero, 2007). The perceptions of the public as regards healthy body weight varied from those regarded as normal in the western society, but this perception was changed in the beginning of the 20th century. There was a reduction in the weight seen as normal since 1920s and this was evident by the 2% increase in average height of the Miss America pageant winners and a 12% decrease in weight between year 1922 and 1999 (Rubinstein & Caballero, 2000). Also, the perception of most people as regards healthy weight has changed, for example in Britain the weight at which people regarded themselves to be overweight was considerably higher in 2007 than in 1999 (Johnson & Wardle, 2008). Obesity is still regarded as an indication of wealth and well-being in many parts of Africa and this has become more widespread since the HIV epidemic began (Haslam & James, 2005). BODY MASS INDEX (BMI) CLASSIFICATION According to the World Health Organization, Body Mass Index (BMI) is a simple index of weight-for-height that is commonly used to classify underweight, normal weight, overweight and obesity in adults. It is defined as the weight in kilograms divided by the square of the height in metres (kg/m2) (W.H.O. 2004). For example, an adult who weighs 60kg and whose height is 1.65m will have a BMI of 22.0. BMI = 60 kg / (1.65 m2) = 60 / 2.72 = 22.04 LEAN BODY MASS Lean Body Mass is a component of body composition, it is calculated by subtracting body fat weight from total body weight. Total body weight is lean plus fat. In equations: LBM = BW − BF Lean Body Mass equals Body Weight minus Body Fat LBM + BF = BW Lean Body Mass plus Body Fat equals Body Weight Lean Body Weight (men) = (1.10 x Weight(kg)) 128 ( Weight2/(100 x Height(m))2) Lean Body Weight (women) = (1.07 x Weight(kg)) 148 ( Weight2/(100 x Height(m))2) Ideal Body Weight (men) = 50 + 2.3 ( Height(in) 60 ) Ideal Body Weight (women) = 45.5 + 2.3 ( Height(in) 60 ) Body Mass Index = Weight(kg) / Height(m)2 The table below further explains the classification of BMI in relation to the weight and height of an individual. Table 1: The International Classification of adult underweight, overweight and obesity according to BMI Source: Adapted from WHO, 1995, WHO, 2000 and WHO 2004. BMI values are age dependent and are the same for both males and females (WHO, 2000). The health risks associated with increasing BMI are many and the interpretation of BMI values in relation to risk may vary for different populations in different geographical locations (WHO, 2004). AETIOLOGY DETERMINANTS OF OBESITY Obesity is a heterogeneous group of conditions with numerous causes, it is not merely a single disorder and it is predominantly expressed phenotypically (Susan A.J, 1997). Obesity is hereditary, but the genetic component does not follow simple Mendelian principles and the effect of the genotype on the aetiology of obesity may be decreased or increased by factors that are non-genetic (Susan A.J, 1997). Several factors determine the body weight, and these are interactions of genetic, environmental and psychosocial factors which are in relation to the amount of energy consumed and the amount of energy expended and the resulting acting through the physiological mediators Table 1: The International Classification of adult underweight, overweight and obesity according to BMI of energy intake and energy expenditure and the resulting equilibrium between both (Susan A.J, 1997). ENDOCRINE AND HYPOTHALAMIC DISORDERS Certain endocrinological disorders may lead to obesity, but this applies to a very small percentage of the total number of cases (Susan A.J, 1997). The endocrinological determinants of obesity have been reviewed recently (Bouchard C., Perusse L., Leblanc C., Tremblay A, & Theriault, 1988). The single disorder that causes obesity in this group is hypothyroidism in which increased weight occurs largely as a result of reduced energy expenditure (Susan A.J, 1997). Other endocrinological factors contributing to obesity include Cushing’s syndrome and disorders of corticosteroid metabolism, where weight gain is typically accompanied by a distinctive prototype of fat deposition in the trunk, sex hormone disorders including hypogonadism in men and ovariectomy in women, insulinoma and growth hormone deficiency (Susan A.J, 1997). The key causes of weight gain in these cases are the amount of energy intake. Certain hypothalamic tumors or damage to the hypothalamic part of the brain as a result of excessive exposure to radiation, infectious agents or head trauma can also lead to obesity with defect in appetite control and hyperphagia (Susan A.J, 1997). A hypothalamic disorder is also believed to be the foundation of a number of congenital abnormalities which could also result in obesity, e.g. Prader-Willi syndrome, which is an abnormality that could be a primary cause of obesity (Susan A.J, 1997). GENETIC INFLUENCE At a population level, the genetic influence of obesity is expressed in terms of heritability (Susan A.J, 1997). This refers to the percentage of the total difference in a character which is attributable to genetic factors (Susan A.J, 1997). The heritability of obesity may be considered either in terms of the total fatness of an individual or the distribution of body fat in an individual (Susan A.J, 1997). Several discoveries have been made over the years regarding the influence of genetics on chronic diseases like cardiovascular disease and obesity (R. C. Whitaker, J.A. Wright, M.S. Pepe, K.D. Seidel, &W.H. Dietz., 1997). Recent reports indicate that at least 32 genes contribute to common forms of obesity. Many of these genes are thought to be related to the development of obesity through the deregulation metabolic hormones in the body (Susan A J, 1997).   The obesity related variant in the fat mass and obesity-associated protein also known as alpha-ketoglutarate-dependent dioxygenase FTO, has aroused interest in pediatrics due to its relationship with increased weight and ponderal index at 2 weeks of age (A. Lopez-Bermejo, C.J. Petry, M. Diaz, et al., 2008). FTO is located on the long arm of the chromosome 16 and is expressed in the brain, specifically the hypothalamic nuclei (Khung E. Rhee et al. 2012). Those who are homogenous for the at-risk allele have been found to be 3kg heavier than those who do not have the allele (T.M. Frayling, N. J. Timpson, M. N. Weedon et al. 2007). This weight gain is likely due to the gene’s involvement in the regulation of energy intake (Khung E. Rhee et al. 2012). According to recent studies, individuals carrying the at-risk allele prefer dense energy foods (J.E Cecil, R. Tavendale, P. Watt, M. M. Hetherington, & C.N.A Palmer, 2008), have reduced feeling of satiety (J. Wardle, S. Carnell, C.M.A. Haworth, I.S. Farooqi, S. O’Rahilly, & R. Plomin, 2008), display loss of control over eating (M. Tanofsky-Kraff, J.C. Han, K. Anandalingam et al. 2009), consume more fat and calories (even after adjusting for BMI) (N. J. Timpson, P.M. Emmett, T.M. Frayling, et al. 2008) and display a greater tendency towards consuming palatable foods after eating a meal (J. Wardle, C.Llewellyn, S. Sanderson, & R. Plomin, 2009). Therefore, FTO isn’t associated with energy expenditure, but it increases the susceptibility of individuals to higher calorie consumption and decreased satisfaction. A meta- analysis of 45 studies found that adults who were physically active attenuate the odds of obesity associated with FTO by almost 30% (T.O. Kilpelainen, L. Qi, S. Brage, et al. 2011). Thus carrying a gene for obesity does not necessarily predestine one to be obese (D. Meyre, K. Proulx, H. Kawagoe-Takaki et al. 2010), but rather increases the risk in the face of an obesogenic environment (Khung E. Rhee et al. 2012). Numerous studies in different ethnic groups suggest that the familial correlation in the total body fatness, expressed as body mass index, (BMI; kg/m2) from parent to offspring is about 0.2 and for sibling-sibling relationships about 0.25 (Bouchard C, Perusse L, Leblanc C, Tremblay A, Theriault G. 1988). As would be expected, studies of twins show a much higher concentration, particularly in monozygotic pairs (Susan A.J, 1997). However, these findings do not segregate the independent effects of genetic transmission and a shared environment (Susan A.J, 1997). Further studies of twins reared apart attribute 50-70% of the difference in BMI in later life to genetic factors (Stunkard A, Harris J, Pedersen N, McClearn G. 1990). Adoption studies, where an individual is compared both to their biological parent and their adopted parents, have also demonstrated the importance of genetic influences (Susan A.J, 1997). There is a strong relationship between the BMI of the adoptee and their biological parents across the entire range of fatness, but no relationship between the adoptee and their adoptive parents (Stunkard A, Sorensen T, Hanis C. et al. 1986). Studies of fat distribution have considered both the ratio of subcutaneous to total fat mass and the distribution of subcutaneous fat in the trunk relative to the limbs (Susan A.J, 1997). Data from the Quebec Family Study, suggest that the size of the internal fat stores are more strongly influenced by genetic factors than subcutaneous depots (Bouchard C., Perusse L., Leblanc C., Tremblay A, Theriault, 1988). Familial clustering suggests that genetic factors may account for 37% of the variance in the trunk to extremity skin fold thickness ratio (Rice T, Bouchard C, Perusse L, Rao D. 1995). These combined evidence from these genetic analysis suggests that obesity is a polygenic disorder and that a considerable proportion of the variance is non-additive (Susan A.J, 1997). This would explain the higher correlations between siblings than those between parent and offspring, and the 2-fold greater correlation between monozygotic than dizygotic twins (Susan A.J, 1997). These genetic influences seem to operate through susceptible genes; the occurrence of the gene increases the risk of developing a characteristic but not essential for its expression nor is it, in itself, sufficient to explain the development of the disease (Susan A.J, 1997). Unlike animal models, where a number of single genes can lead to obesity, no human obesity gene has yet been characterized, but the heterogeneous nature of human obesity does not preclude the identification of small number of individuals with a single defect which leads to obesity (Susan A.J, 1997). In man, a number of genetically determined conditions result in excess body weight or fatness (e.g Prader-Willi syndrome or Bardet-Biedl syndrome), but these account for only a very small proportion of the obese population (Susan A.J, 1997). PHYSIOLOGICAL MEDIATORS Energy expenditure Studies in animals have postulated that at the time of overfeeding, a remarkable increase in metabolic rate may deplete the excess energy thus reducing the rate of weight gain below theoretical values (Rothwell N., Stock M., 1983). Genetically obese animals tend to gain more weight than their lean controls even when they are pair-fed, thus implying a greater metabolic rate (Thurby P., Trayhurn P., 1979). One possible explanation for this effect is the decrease in diet-induced thermogenesis which is lessened in animal models of obesity due to a decrease in the sympathetic activation of brown adipose tissue (Rothwell N., Stock M., 1983). These unequivocal effects on energy expenditure in obese animals contrast with the paucity of evidence in humans (Susan A Jebb, 1997). Susan A.J (1997) stated that in obese humans, there have been constant reports of abnormally low energy intake which indirectly imply that there must be a defect in energy expenditure. There are three basic elements to energy expenditure which have each been the focus of extensive research. Basal Metabolic Rate In 1997, Susan A Jebb defined basal or resting metabolic rate as the energy expended by an individual at rest, following an overnight fast and at a comfortable environmental temperature in the thermo neutral range. Several studies of basal metabolic rate have concluded that obese subjects have a higher BMR compared to their lean counterparts. Researchers like Swinburn B. & Ravussin E, reported that approximately 80% of the inter- individual variance in BMR can be accounted for by age, fat-free mass, fat mass and gender. Nevertheless, this still gives room for some likelihood that inter-individual difference in BMR which may influence individuals with a relatively low BMR to become obese (Susan A. Jebb, 1997). Diet induced thermogenesis A number of studies have suggested that the post-prandial increase in energy expenditure is attenuated in obese subjects, perhaps due to decreased Sympathetic Nervous System activity (Astrup A. 1996). Similar effects have also been demonstrated in the post-obese. However this is not a consistent finding, even among studies from the same laboratory. A recent review by Ravussin E. & Swinburn B. (1993) identified 28 studies in favour of a defect in thermogenesis in humans and 17 against. However, since thermogenesis accounts for only a fraction of total energy expenditure (approximately 10%), the potential for a significant effect on total energy expenditure is insufficient (Susan A. Jebb 1997). Physical activity The most significant component of energy expenditure is physical activity which may represent 20-50% of total energy expenditure. Studies of fidgeting movements in Pima Indians within a whole-body calorimeter have shown significant inter-individual variations in the daily energy cost of these actions from 400-3000 kJ/day, with low levels predictive of subsequent weight gain at least in males but not females (Zurlo F., Ferraro R., Fontvielle A. et. al. 1988). However, in free-living conditions, the freedom to undertake conscious physical activity or exercise increases the inter-individual variability even further (Susan A Jebb). Research in this area has been hampered by imprecision in the methods to measure physical activities which have included various actometers, heart rate monitoring, activity diaries and direct observation (Susan A. Jebb, 1997). The energy requirements of an individual encompass the summation of basal expenditure, thermogenesis and physical activity. A whole-body calorimeter can be used to measure the total energy expenditure of an individual. The analysis of total energy expenditure in 319 obese subjects clearly demonstrates a significant increase in energy expenditure with increasing body weight such that individuals with a BMI in excess of 35 kg/m2 have energy expenditure approximately 30% higher than those with BMI less than 25 kg/m2 (Susan A Jebb, 1997). The outstanding difficulty with these studies , as stated by Susan A. Jebb in 1997 is that the increase in energy expenditure seen in obese subjects as a result of their increased body size may mask pre-existing metabolic defects in the pre-obese state which exposes the individual to excessive weight gain. However, in experimental overfeeding researches, there is no remarkable difference in the degree of weight gain between lean and obese subjects when matched for their excess energy intake (Diaz E. Prentice A. M et. al. 1992).   Studies of total energy expenditure in post-obese subjects have not arrived at a definite conclusion; some studies show no difference in energy expenditure in the post-obese relative to never-obese controls (Goldberg G.R., et. al. 1991), whilst others show a modest suppression of energy expenditure (Geissler C. Miller D., Shah M. 1987). In general, there is little evidence to support the hypothesis that human obesity may be due to a specific defect in energy expenditure in predisposed individuals (Susan A Jebb, 1997). Susan A Jebb further stated that advocates of a metabolic basis to obesity, argue that only very small differences in energy expenditure are neccessary to produce significant weight gain over many years, and this difference may be lower than the limits of precision of even the most advanced methodology. Energy Intake The failure to identify a defect in the metabolic control of energy expenditure and the contrary observation of high levels of energy expenditure, and the contrary observation of high levels of energy expenditure in obese subjects has led to a focus on food intake to explain the aetiology of obesity (Susan A Jebb, 1997). The increase in energy expenditure associated with the development of obesity should automatically help to prevent continued weight gain; hence the failure of this auto-regulatory system suggests that there must be a considerable error in the regulation of food intake (Susan A Jebb, 1997). Furthermore, habitually lean individuals are able to regulate intake to match energy requirements over a wide range of energy requirements yet those who become obese seem unable to achieve this balance (Susan A Jebb, 1997).   Breakthrough in discerning the role of energy intake in the aetiology of obesity has been critically disconcerted by under-reporting which is now largely recognized as a feature of obesity (Susan A Jebb, 1997). Comparisons of energy intake and energy expenditure indicate consistent shortfalls in self-reported intake, averaging approximately 30% of energy requirements in obese subjects (Prentice A.M., Black A.E., Coward W.A., 1986; Lichtman S., Pisarska K., Berman E., et al., 1993). This phenomenon also extends to post-obese subjects and to others who may be very weight conscious (Susan A Jebb, 1997). Under-reporting may be cause by several factors and it is natural for individuals to change their eating pattern when they are to record their food intake.   This is usually associated with a reduction in intake as subjects consciously or sub-consciously adopt a self-imposed ‘diet’. (Susan A Jebb, 1997). Therefore they might give accurate results about their intake for that duration, but it may not be a true representation of their habitual pattern. Forgetfulness, underestimation of meal size and lack of basic knowledge of food consumption can also lead to under-reporting. Although, it is possible to have falsification and fabrication of dietary records, there are also instances of self-deception or deliberate manipulation of dietary records. Recent research into the appetite control system by Blundell J.; Bouchard C., Bray G. (1996), has identified a network of synchronous interactions which govern eating behavior. These effects are mediated through the central nervous system particularly the hypothalamus, where a number of neuropeptides appear to regulate feeding behavior via effects on hunger and satiety (Susan A Jebb, 1997). Laboratory studies of feeding behavior by Spiegel T., et al., in 1989, proposed that, following a convert energy preload, obese subject may be less able to accurately compensate for the energy content of the preload at a subsequent meal than lean subjects. However, these studies are usually of short duration in laboratory settings and may not accurately reflect eating behavior in a naturalistic setting, where knowledge of foods consumed and conditioned learning may invoke other regulatory processes (Susan A Jebb, 1997). There is also significant evidence that the individual macronutrients (protein, fat, carbohydrate and alcohol) have different influences on eating behavior, majorly due to their effects on satiety (Stubbs R., 1995). Experimental studies of manipulated foods and retrospective analyses of dietary records suggest that protein is the most satiating (DeCastro J., 1987; Hill A., Blundell J., 1990). Carbohydrate is also an efficient inhibitor of later food consumption, at least in the short terms, meal-to-meal context (Rolls B., et al. 1994). Fat seems to have a satiating capacity (Lawton C., Burley V., 1993). Fat hyperphagia occurs during a single meal due to subjects overeating high fat foods and is also known as passive over consumption. In 1994, Poppitt S., stated that fat has two times the energy per gram of carbohydrate or protein which may be due to the level of energy density and not necessarily a characteristic of dietary fat. Appetite is said to be stimulated by alcohol and according to DeCastro J & Orozco (1990), in free living circumstances, alcohol consumption with meals is associated with higher energy intakes, but this may also reflect that alcohol is more likely to be consumed on special occasions which in themselves are associated with increased food intake. Basically, taste preference can have an effect on the amount of food consumed and the kind of food.   The individual preference for certain meals would make them more likely to consume more of that meal. Therefore, sensory preferences plays a role on energy balance since is it associated with energy intake. According to Witherley S, Pangborn R & Stern J (1980), several reports of sensory preferences for particular food groups in association with obesity, but inter-subject variability is so great as to obscure any underlying obese-lean differences. The relationship between sensory preference for fat versus sugar and BMI was pinpointed by Drewnowski in 1992. Obese women had preference for foods with high fat to sugar ratio while women with low BMI had preference for high sugar to fat ratio, therefore increase in weight is closely related to increase for fatty foods. Eating frequency has effect on weight gain, because people who eat several small meals at intervals have less weight than those that eat fewer meals in larger quantity and therefore large quantity of food consumed at a time may be a risk factor for obesity, however, studies as regards this, showed no remarkable relationship (Bellisle F, McDevitt R, Prentice A.M. 1997). Research in this area is contradicted by under-reporting of food consumption in obese subjects and by post-hoc variations in eating patterns as a result of obesity and efforts to control weight (Susan A Jebb, 1997). Eating frequency in obese subjects is however an unreliable blueprint to the eating patterns involved in the aetiology of obesity (Susan A Jebb, 1997). ENVIRONMENTAL INFLUENCE Obesogenic environment which was first coined in the 1990s, in a bid to explain the present obesity epidermic. According to King D (2007), obesogenic environment is the sum of the influences that the surroundings, opportunities or conditions of life have on promoting obesity in individuals and populations. This encompasses the cultural, social and infrastructural conditions that affect the ability of a person to embrace a healthy lifestyle. Individuals in a population respond to unhealthy environment and the more urbanized the environment, the more individuals are pressurized to adopt unhealthy habits. The pressure from the surrounding makes it difficult for individuals to change their lifestyle and practice healthy habits when the environment itself is unhealthy. Environmental factors may have a critical effect in the development of obesity by unmasking genetic or metabolic susceptibilities (Susan A.J, 1997). Environmental influences on diet involve a wide range of factors including accessibility to food and high calorie drinks. Eating habits are commonly influenced by the availability and accessibility of unhealthy food, which is an important consideration in the effect on obesity. Studies in the United States recommend that the availability of high quality, affordable ‘healthy’ food is limited for people who reside in low-income communities and such scarcity is associated with unhealthy diet and obesity (White 2007) .However despite several epidemiological studies that shows environmental influences play an important role in the aetiology of obesity, it is a fact that some people within the same ‘unhealthy environment’ still managed to maintain a healthy weight (Susan A.J, 1997). PSYCHO-SOCIAL INFLUENCES Food is sometimes used as a coping mechanism by individuals with weight issues, especially when they are unhappy, nervous, stressed, bored and depressed. In many obese individuals there seems to be a perpetual cycle of mood disturbance, overeating, and weight gain (Jennifer C. Collins & Jon E. Bentz 2009). When they feel frustrated, they rely on food for comfort, even though this coping mechanism may pacify their mood, the resultant weight gain that results may cause a dysphoric mood due to their inability to control their stress (Jennifer C. Collins & Jon E. Bentz, 2009). Eventually a guilty feeling may restart the cycle and might steer a habitual pattern of eating food to get comfort. This habitual pattern is specifically significant if there is a genetic risk factor for obesity or an ‘obesogenic’ environment where foods high in calorie & density are readily accessible and sedentary lifestyle is present. Regrettably, these situations are popular in America. In addition to depression and anxiety, other risk factors include problematic eating behaviors such as â€Å"mindless eating,† frequent snacking on high calories foods, overeating, and night eating (Glinski J., Wetzler S., Goodman E.2001). American Psychiatric Association has currently included Binge eating disorder (BED) in an appendix of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV-TR) and is characterized by: recurrent episodes of eating during a discrete period of time (at least 2 days a week over a 6 month period); eating large quantity of food than majority of the people would eat at the same time; a feeling of loss of control during the episodes; and guilt or distress following the episodes (Jennifer C. Collins & Jon E. Bentz, 2009). According to Wadden T.A., Sarwer D. B., Fabricatore A. N., Jones L., Stack R., & Williams N.S (2007), BED is estimated to occur in approximately 2% of the general population and between 10% and 25% of the bariatric population. An important differentiation pointed out by the American Psychiatric Association, between BED and bulimia/anorexia is that BED is not associated with any regular compensatory behaviors, such as purging, fasting, or excessive exercise. It can therefore be implied that the majority of individuals with BED are overweight. Night eating, which was first identified in 1955 as another disorder that can lead to remarkable weight gain, though night eating syndrome (NES) is not currently recognized by the American Psychiatric Association as a distinct diagnosis in the DSM-IV-TR. Night eating syndrome is characterized by excessive late night consumption (> 35% of daily calories after the evening meal), unhealthy eating patterns, â€Å"morning anorexia,† insomnia, and distress (Stunkard A. J., Grace W. J. & Wolff H. G. 1955). NES occurs in approximately 1% of the general population and an estimated 5-20% of the bariatric population (Wadden T.A., Sarwer D. B., Fabricatore A. N., Jones L., Stack R., & Williams N.S. 2007). More recently, NES has been seen as a disorder of circadian rhythm that includes a delay of appetite in the mornings and the continuation of appetite and over consumption of food during the night (Jennifer C. Collins & Jon E. Bentz, 2009). PATHOPHYSIOLOGY OF OBESITY There are several possible pathophysiological mechanisms involved in the advancement and prolongation of obesity. This field of research had been almost unapproached until the leptin gene was discovered in 1994 by J. M. Friedman’s laboratory (Zhang, Y., Proenca, R., Maffei, M., Barone, M., Leopold, L., Friedman, J.M., 1994). These researchers proposed that leptin was a satiety element. However, soon after J. F. Caro’s laboratory could not ascertain any mutations in the leptin gene in humans with obesity. In 1995, Considine, RV; Considine, EL; Williams, CJ; Nyce, MR; Magosin, SA; Bauer, TL; Rosato, EL; Colberg, J., & Caro, J.F. proposed a contrary view that Leptin expression was increased, postulating the possibility of Leptin-resistance in human obesity. Since the discovery of leptin, insulin, ghrelin, orexin, cholecystokinin, adipokines, peptide tyrosine tyrosine, as well as many other mediators have been researched. The adipokines are intermediators produced by adipose tissue; their action is thought to revise many obesity-related diseases. Leptin and ghrelin are considered to be interrelated in their effect on appetite, with ghrelin produced by the stomach regulating short-term appetitive control (i.e. hunger pangs when the stomach is empty and satiety when the stomach is stretched). Leptin is created by adipose tissue to signal fat storage reservoirs in the body, and mediates long-term appetitive controls (i.e. to eat more when fat storages are low and less when fat storages are high). Although administration of leptin may be effective in a small subset of obese humans who have deficiency in leptin, most obese humans are considered to be leptin resistant and have been found to have high levels of leptin (Hamann A., & Matthaei S. 1996). This resistance is thought to explain in part why administration of leptin has not been shown to be effective in suppressing appetite in most obese people (Flier J.S. 2004). Leptin and ghrelin act on the hypothalamus and are produced peripherally. They control appetite through their actions on the central nervous system. They act on the hypothalamus, a region of the brain central to the coordination of food consumption and energy expenditure. There are several circuits within the hypothalamus that contribute to its performance in integrating appetite, the melanocortin pathway being the most well understood (Flier J.S. 2004). The circuit starts with an region of the hypothalamus, the arcuate nucleus, that has outputs to the lateral hypothalamus (LH) and ventromedial hypothalamus (VMH), the brains feeding and satiety centers, respectively (Boulpaep, Emile L., Boron, & Walter F. 2003). According to Flier J.S. (2004), the arcuate nucleus contains two distinct groups of neurons; the first group co expresses neuropeptide Y (NPY) and agouti-related peptide (AgRP) and has stimulatory inputs to the LH and inhibitory inputs to the VMH and the second group coexpresses pro-opiomelanocortin (POMC) and cocaine- and amphetamine-regulated transcript (CART) and has stimulatory inputs to the VMH and inhibitory inputs to the LH (Flier J.S. 2004). Consequently, NPY/AgRP neurons stimulate feeding and inhibit satiety, while POMC/CART neurons stimulate satiety and inhibit feeding (Flier J.S. 2004). Both groups of arcuate nucleus neurons are regulated in part by leptin. Leptin inhibits the NPY/AgRP group while stimulating the POMC/CART group (Flier J.S. 2004).   Researches done by Flier J.S., 2004, thus concluded that a deficiency in leptin signaling, either via leptin deficiency or leptin resistance, leads to overfeeding and may account for some genetic and acquired forms of obesity. EFFECT ON HEALTH Obesity is a severe medical condition and a chronic health issue worldwide. The association between body weight and mortality is a subject of concern, especially in regards to the optimal weight for longevity (JoAnn E. Manson, M.D., Walter C. Willett, M.D., et al, 1995). The significance of understanding the true relationship between weight and mortality is underlined by the increasing prevalence of obesity in the United States (Kuczmarski RJ, et al, 1994) especially women (Harlen WR, et al, 1988). Obesity is a major risk factor for cardiovascular diseases (e.g., heart disease, stroke and high blood pressure), diabetes (e.g. type 2 diabetes), musculoskeletal disorders (e.g., osteoarthritis), some cancers (e.g., endometrial, breast, and colon cancer), high total cholesterol or high levels of triglycerides, liver and gallbladder diseases, sleep apnea and respiratory problems, reproductive health complications such as infertility and mental health conditions (WHO, 2012). Obesity and Cancer Obese people are more vulnerable to cancer and their prognosis is extremely worse when diagnosed. Men that are obese are 33% more likely to die from cancer and obese women also have a 50% higher likelihood of dying from breast cancer (Weight Management Centre, 2010). Additional to obesity, cancer has recently been linked to diet and physical activity status (Bray 2004, Barnard 2004, Wiseman 2008). The cancers most significantly associated with obesity in women are cervical, uterine, kidney, breast and endometrial cancer and in men are colon, pancreatic and liver cancer (Calle, Rodriguez, Walker-Thurmond & Thun 2003). One study, using National Cancer Institute Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results data, estimated that in 2007 in the United States, about 34,000 new cases of cancer in men (4 percent) and 50,500 in women (7 percent) were due to obesity. The percentage of cases attributed to obesity varied widely for different cancer types but was as high as 40 percent for some cancers, particularly endometrial cancer and esophageal adenocarcinoma (National Cancer Institute, 2012). Obesity and cardiovascular disorders Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is one of the major cause of death in U.S. Obese people are more liable to die from CVD largely due to accelerated atherosclerosis, hyperlipidaemia, loss of glyceamic control and hypertension. Until recently the relationship between obesity and coronary heart disease was viewed as indirect, i.e., through covariates related to both obesity and coronary heart disease risk (Lew E.A., Garfinkel L., 1979) including hypertension; dyslipidemia, particularly reductions in HDL cholesterol; and impaired glucose tolerance or non–insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus. Insulin resistance and accompanying hyperinsulinemia are typically associated with these comorbidities (Reaven G.M., 1988). Although most of the comorbidities linking obesity to coronary artery disease increase as BMI increases, they also relate to the total distribution of body fat. Long-term longitudinal studies, however, indicate that obesity as such not only relates to but independently predicts coronary atherosclerosis (Manson J.E., et al., 1995; Garrison R. J., et al. 1985; Rabkin S.W., 1977). Messerli F. H. (1982) stated that left ventricular hypertrophy is mostly seen in patients with obesity and is related to systemic hypertension and may be related to the severity of obesity. Hypertension is approximately three times more commonly found in obese individuals than normal-weight persons (Van Itallie T.B., 1985). This relationship may be directly related such that when weight increases, there is an increase in blood pressure (Kannel W.B., Brand N., et al., 1967) and when weight decreases, blood pressure also decreases (Reisin E., Frohlich E.D., et al., 1983). Obesity and mental health Individuals diagnosed with obesity tend to be less favorable on all levels of the psychological assessment and may exhibit several symptoms ranging from mere sadness to chronic depression. Evident are more episodes of mood swings, anxiety, personality and eating disorders, basically related to or associated with obesity experienced by individuals with obesity (Pickering, Grant, Chou, Compton 2007). Obesity may be an inception of psychiatric manifestations and vice versa and is related to psychosocial deterioration and bias based on weight. This comprises of loss of self-worth, and reduced self-esteem associated with stigmatization. Stigmatization can further lead to desolation and withdrawal and thus many obese individuals seek solace in binge eating, thereby gaining more weight. Based on reports from Roberts, Deleger, Strawbridge & Kaplan 2003; Herva, Laitinen, Miettunen, Veijola, Karvonen & Lasky 2006; Kasen, Cohen, Chen &Must 2008, concern, shame and guilt associated with low self-worth, which is finally related to excessive food consumption completes the obesity-mental disorder circle. There is bias and discrimination associated with obesity. They generally report reduced quality of life and functional wellbeing, collectively called Health-related quality of life (HRQOL) (Puhl & Brownell 2001; Wadden & Phelan 2002). This relationships is majorly expressed by women (Fontaine 2001) and for people with severe obesity (Hudson, Hiripi, Pope & Kessler 2007; Scott, Bruffaerts, Siomn, Alonso, Angermeyer, de Girolamo et al. 2008). Obesity and diabetes Diabetes is usually a terminal illness. i.e. it is a lifelong chronic disease characterized by high levels of sugar in the blood. One of the major risk factors for diabetes is obesity. Obesity is directly associated with Diabetes 2. The association between obesity and type 2 diabetes are firmly established and without the intervention of a healthy diet and proper exercise, obesity can lead to type 2 diabetes over a very short period of time.   In fact, obesity is believed to account for 80-85% of the risk of developing type 2 diabetes, while recent research suggests that obese people are up to 80 times more likely to develop type 2 diabetes than those with a BMI of less than 22 (National Health Service, 2014). It is a known fact that obesity carries a greater risk of developing type 2 diabetes, especially if you have excess weight around your abdomen. Studies postulates that abdominal fat causes fat cells to releases ‘pro-inflammatory’ chemicals, which can reduce the body’s sensitivity to the insulin, this can also disrupt the function of insulin responsive cells and their ability to react to insulin. This is known as insulin resistance   which is a primary activator for type 2 diabetes. Excess abdominal fat is a major high-risk form of obesity. SOCIO-ECOMOMIC/ FINANCIAL COST OF OBESITY In 1999-2000, nearly 65 percent of U.S. adults were either obese or overweight. Obesity accounts for $117 billion a year in direct and indirect economic costs. Obesity is associated with 300,000 deaths per year, and is fast becoming the leading cause of preventable deaths† (Mancino, Lin, and Ballenger, 2004). Certainly, obesity has become a large problem in America. Recent increase in meal portions and reduction in availability of natural food production may propose why people find it challenging to maintain a healthy diet. Although, certain People have been successful at maintaining a healthy nutritional status and avoiding this unhealthy situation. Gary Becker’s human capital theory is a groundwork that helps to clarify the effect of weight status on the economy in terms of the labor market outcomes for the individual. Human capital is the educational qualification, job experience/training, and the health condition that workers devote their time in to boost their capacity and skills to be â€Å"rented out† to employers (Ehrenberg and Smith, 2005). Healthy weight status in relation to labour is a type of human capital investment. According to Robert Pindyck and Daniel Rubinfeld (2004), â€Å"When an investment decision is made, the investor commits to a current outlay of expenses in return for a   stream of expected future benefits.† These stated costs for a healthy weight may include buying of food with high nutritional values and creating time for physical activities. As an investment, the individual sacrifices money, time and other resources to attain a healthy weight to become more productive in the future and, hence, earn higher income. Obese workers miss more days of work and inflict more cost on employers especially in medical and disability claims and also workers compensation claims. As a result, firms end up with extra costs associated with obesity, this is one of the economic effects of obesity. Obesity places significant burden on the society through health care expenditures and disability payments combined through group health insurance and public programs. The estimated annual medical cost of obesity in the U.S. was $147 billion in 2008 U.S. dollars; the medical costs for people who are obese were $1,429 higher than those of normal weight (CDC, 2011). Obesity there has direct and indirect effect on the Nation’s resources, as more money is spent on the obese due to the high risk of comorbidity with other life threatening diseases like type 2 diabetes, osteoarthritis and cardiovascular diseases. TREATMENT There are several weight-loss schemes available but many are ineffectual and short-term, especially for those who are morbidly obese. The strategies for weight loss with non-surgical programs usually involve a combination of diet modification, behavior modification therapy and appropriate exercise. Dietary Modification Dietary modifications for obesity are designed to create a negative energy intake-energy expenditure balance (i.e., calories consumed < calories expended) by reducing daily energy intake below the required level. The required energy varies by weight, sex and level of physical exercise such individuals with higher weights, more activity have greater energy needs, including men (Melanson K. & Dwyer J. 2002). Uniformly, higher energy deficits results in higher weight losses. Low calorie diet is recommended for obese individuals and they are advised to check calorie content of meals before consumption. Very low calorie diet is recommended for morbidly obese individuals with little or no success in low diet consumption. Behaviour Therapy The oldest report of the use of behavioral therapy in the management of obesity occurred in 1967. Since then, it has been widely used in the management of obesity (Gupta R. & Misra A. 2007). Behavior therapy involves setting out goals and principles to patients to aid their adherence to the diet modification and activity goals for weight loss. Conventional tactics include self-monitoring of food intake and exercise, reduced portion of meals and number of times of food intake, intellective restructuring, problem solving, and prevention of regression. The primary aim of behavior modification therapy is to change eating pattern and exercise practices to promote weight loss (CDC, 2011). Components of behavioral therapy Self-monitoring: This is one of the main elements of behavior therapy in obesity. Self-monitoring includes maintaining food dairies and activity logs (Guare J.C., et. Al., 1989).Stimulus Control: This is the second key element in behavior therapy. In this element, focus is placed on altering the environment that initiates eating and modifying it to help prevent overeating. Stimulus control includes proper purchase of food items, excluding energy-dense processed food and introducing more fruits and vegetables (Wing R.R., 2004) Slower eating: Reducing the speed of eating so as to allow signals for fullness come into play.Goal setting: Setting realistic goals for one’s self or setting goals for patients as appropriate (Bandura A. & Simon K.M., 1977). Behavioral contracting: Reinforcing of successful outcomes or rewarding good behaviors plays a key role (Volpp K. G., et. al., 2008).Education: Nutritional education is a necessary component of a successful behavior therapy for obesi ty. A structured meal plan in conjunction with consultation with a dietician will be helpful (Pedersen S. D., et. al., 2007).Social support: Behavioral modification is more sustainable in the long term when there is social support. Enhancing social support is essential for behavioral therapy (Avenell A. et. al., 2004). Physical activity Physical activity is the third component of non-surgical weight loss interventions and lifestyle modification. The advantages of physical activities include promoting negative energy balance by maximizing calorie expenditure, preserving fat-free part during weight loss, and improving cardiovascular fitness. Physical activity, however, is ineffective in weight loss in the absence of diet modification. The greatest benefit of physical activity is in facilitating the maintenance of weight loss (Pronk N.P & Wing R.R. 1992). Case studies have shown that people who exercise regularly are more successful in maintaining weight losses than are those who do not exercise. Kayman S., Bruvold W., Stern J.S. 1990; Klem M.L., Wing R.R., McGuire M.T., Seagle H.M., Hill J.O.1997). Additional evidence comes from randomized trials. Participants who receive diet plus exercise maintain greater weight losses 1 year after treatment than do those who receive diet alone, although the differences are not always statistically significant (Wing, R.R. 1999). PREVENTION Obesity is a long-lasting medical condition, which is linked with several debilitating and life-threatening conditions. The increasing rate of obesity globally is a public health concern (Srinivas N., et. al., 2004). Hence an effective way to control obesity requires strategies that would tackle the major issues relating to prevention (Srinivas N., et. al., 2004). The treatment and prevention of obesity are interrelated. The prevention of obesity involves several levels i) Primary ii) Secondary iii) Tertiary (Timothy P.G., 1997). Primary prevention: The goal of primary prevention is to reduce the number of new cases. Diet modification/ healthy diet habits is a primary way of preventing obesity. Sedentary life style which is one of the causes of obesity can be prevented by appropriate exercises and activities that help burn out excess calories in the body and also prevent accumulation of fat. Simple habits ranging from 30 minutes walk in a day to weekly work out at the gymnasium can go a long way in maintaining a healthy weight. Health education is also very important in this aspect because some individuals in the community are unaware of the health implications of their habits. Appropriate health education programs should be organized to increase awareness. Accessibility to healthy food is also an important factor in the prevention of obesity. Formulations of policies that would facilitate healthy eating habit should be adopted by the Government; this would go a long way in reducing the economic effects of ob esity and the burden on the Nation’s resources. Policy and environmental approaches that make healthy choices available, affordable and easy can be used to extend the propagation of strategies designed to raise awareness and support people who would like to make healthy lifestyle changes (CDC, 2011).Secondary prevention: Secondary prevention is to lower the rate of established cases in the community (Srinivas N., et. al., 2004). Secondary prevention includes strategies to diagnose and treat an existing medical condition in its early stage to avoid complications. (Jeffery G.K., 2014). Tertiary prevention: Tertiary prevention is to stabilize or reduce the amount of disability related to obesity ((Srinivas N., et. al., 2004). For those who are already obese and showing signs and symptoms of complications, there are clinical preventive maintenance and treatment regimes (Srinivas N., et. al., 2004). These treatment includes medications and increase in fruit and vegetable consumpti on. Some extreme cases may include surgery and this is used usually when BMI exceeds 30kg/m2 or 40 kg/m2 and when other treatment options have failed. Examples of surgical procedures to treat obesity and its complications includes gastric partitioning and gastric by-pass (Srinivas N., et. al., 2004). REFERENCES Allison, B. D., Fontaine, R. K., Manson, E. J., & VanItallie, B. T. (1999). Annual deaths attributable to obesity in the United States. Journal of American Medical Association , 282 (16), 1530-8. Barness, A. L., Opitz, M. J., & Gilbert, E. (2007). 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