Food Insecurity and Security

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1. Introduction

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

1.1 Definition of Food Insecurity

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

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

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

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

1.2 Importance of Food Security

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

2. Causes of Food Insecurity

2.1 Poverty and Income Inequality

2.2 Climate Change and Natural Disasters

2.3 Conflict and Political Instability

3. Consequences of Food Insecurity

3.1 Malnutrition and Health Issues

3.2 Economic Impacts

3.3 Social and Political Unrest

4. Global Efforts to Address Food Insecurity

4.1 Sustainable Development Goals

4.2 International Organizations and Initiatives

4.3 Agricultural and Food Policies

5. Regional Perspectives on Food Insecurity

5.1 Africa

5.1.1 Challenges in Sub-Saharan Africa

5.1.2 Strategies for Food Security in Africa

5.2 Asia

5.2.1 Food Insecurity in South Asia

5.2.2 Achievements and Challenges in East Asia

5.3 Latin America

5.3.1 Food Insecurity in Central America

5.3.2 Successes in South American Countries

6. Innovations and Solutions for Food Security

6.1 Technology and Digital Solutions

6.2 Sustainable Agriculture Practices

6.3 Community-Based Approaches

7. Future Challenges and Opportunities

7.1 Population Growth and Food Demand

7.2 Urbanization and Changing Diets

7.3 Climate Change Adaptation and Resilience

Gender Equality in Canada

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1. Introduction

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

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

1.1 Overview of Gender Equality

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

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

1.2 Importance of Gender Equality in Canada

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

1.3 Historical Context of Gender Equality in Canada

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

2. Legislation and Policies

2.1 Canadian Human Rights Act

2.2 Gender Equality in Employment

2.3 Gender Equality in Education

2.4 Gender Equality in Politics

3. Gender Pay Gap

3.1 Causes of the Gender Pay Gap

3.2 Impact of the Gender Pay Gap on Women

3.3 Efforts to Address the Gender Pay Gap

4. Violence Against Women

4.1 Forms of Violence Against Women

4.2 Domestic Violence

4.3 Sexual Assault

4.4 Measures to Combat Violence Against Women

5. Women’s Representation in Leadership

5.1 Women in Corporate Leadership

5.2 Women in Political Leadership

5.3 Challenges and Barriers for Women in Leadership

6. Gender Equality in Healthcare

6.1 Access to Reproductive Health Services

6.2 Gender Bias in Medical Research and Treatment

6.3 Mental Health and Gender Equality

7. Gender Equality in Sports

7.1 Gender Disparity in Sports Funding

7.2 Representation of Women in Sports Media

7.3 Challenges Faced by Female Athletes

8. Intersectionality and Gender Equality

8.1 Intersectionality and its Impact on Gender Equality

8.2 Indigenous Women and Gender Equality

8.3 Gender Equality for LGBTQ+ Individuals

9. Gender Equality in Education

9.1 Gender Stereotypes in Education

9.2 Gender Disparity in STEM Education

9.3 Strategies to Promote Gender Equality in Education

10. Conclusion

Healthcare and Nursing – Social Justice in Healthcare Distribution

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1. Introduction

In many different contexts, self-righteousness seems evident on the part of those who critique the poor or make generalizations about them. One does not have to look far to see, for example, people elaborating about the “lazy poor” who are a “parasitic drain on the hard-working class.” Self-righteousness is defined as being smugly superior in one’s own self, and out of the three forms of self-righteousness to be mentioned in this paper, this definition will refer to all. Rather employed or not, the U.S. Census Bureau has consistently estimated that at least “37 million Americans are currently living below the poverty line” as measured by the standard of low-income in the United States. I feel confident in saying that those who critique the poor as such do not have to deal with the ups and downs that poverty gives. It is also fair to say that such people probably do not understand how complex poverty is and how it affects the human mind and spirit in so many life-altering ways. I decided to make poverty the focus of my paper because I learned through AP English 11 in my senior year that this is a critically complex social issue in which how it manifests differs across the United States. Also, many stratification systems are influenced by poverty because it is so widespread throughout the world, and so as a global pandemic, no nation should consider themselves safe from how poverty is or can be worsened on a large scale. As a future member in the world of work and business, understanding the complexity of social stratification and the various systems in which human life is disenfranchised – such as the system of poverty or the issues surrounding access to human and public services such as proper education or healthcare – is instrumental to contributing effectively towards the well-being of society as a whole. My paper will, I hope, portray why self-righteousness regarding the poor is erroneous, but also illustrate that such attitudes are born out of an oversimplification of poverty in the United States.

1.1. Definition of Social Justice

Social justice, in the context of practical ethics, is a concept based on the idea that every person has an equal right to the same treatment and condition in life. Ideally, all individuals should have equal social, political, and economic opportunities. Therefore, the rights of an individual should not be violated based on the class, gender, race, and sexuality. Social justice is expansive and includes a wide array of things from a just society and economy. Social justice is also a concept that certain privileges are unfair. These privileges not only benefit this person or persons but also are a barrier to the rights in which every person should have. There are two ways in which we can understand the concept of social justice. The first is individual rights and the second is good of the community. Individual rights are morally justifiable in which all individuals within a society are benefited in most of the cases. When the rights of different individuals undermine others, for example wealthy people have more opportunities in a society than those who are less fortunate, this would be seen as an unfair privilege and therefore an unfair social justice. Next, common good, this is the understanding that as a society, everyone should have a right to a rich and fulfilling life. It is generally assumed that the benefits of equality and social justice are a better citizen. When groups such as children, elderly, disabled and people of that nature are excluded from the common good it is referred to as social injustice. Social justice means that we, as a society, must provide certain things; such as health care, social security, and education to all. It is most commonly expressed through civil rights. This is a fairly drastic approach and often changing the institution that is enforcing the injustices. Often, the lack of civil liberties is caused by overlap between the various forms of social injustices. In the work “Social Justice: A Case for Marriage Equality,” it is argued that the state must recognize same-sex marriage because doing so is a matter of fundamental civil rights. It makes the case that state discriminations prohibits gays and lesbians from carrying out the common and often cherished human right of formalizing their relationships as heterosexuals can. It is in the denial of this liberty of one to most cherished rights that the injustice exists.

1.2. Importance of Social Justice in Healthcare

Social justice in healthcare is of great importance, especially when the government provides for the health of its entire population. According to the Institute of Medicine, if the society is to move forward, then every individual in the population must have access to adequate and quality healthcare services. The United States has been providing healthcare services to the people such as immigrants and veterans, but there is still a wide gap in terms of who should get the services. Researchers have found out that most of the social injustices in healthcare are brought about by the difference in healthcare management and neglect between places in the same city. People living in places that are naturally endowed with better resources tend to receive better healthcare quality compared to those living in poorer environmental conditions. To exacerbate this, the poorer individuals in the less endowed areas are either underinsured or uninsured and cannot have access to good healthcare as dictated in the National Standards for Culturally and Linguistically Appropriate Services. This trend affects the society as a whole because the sick people in those areas cannot work effectively, hence the national income is affected. The political left supports national uniform healthcare and many theories and articles have been published in favor of equality in health maintenance which result in a thesis and academic writing for students in healthcare. In solidarity with the Catholics Bishops 1993, it is fair to state that the “most important” right of them all is the right to life. Every “right” to education, healthcare, or any other area is a right only if it is based on the inalienable right to life from the moment of conception to natural death. This can justify the importance of social justice and equality in healthcare. Its main aim and purpose are the physical and emotional well-being of the individuals. Governor Arnold declares that the health of society is measured by the quality of life of its most vulnerable members and healthcare is a top priority of government and it is essential to the life and health of a person. He is so much convinced with the belief that social justice in healthcare is vital. He looks at life as a gift from God and it is the duty, and responsibility to protect that “God given” gift. He perceives social justice and all sort of health policies are aimed at addressing various social and economic disparities. Chrétien et al 2007 accused the government for political misuse of the term the life and privacy of patients were often violated and terms of life could be interpreted arbitrarily. There was no guarantee that fair and equal treatment is given based but not because of the financial or social status of an individual and this can reflect the importance of the ethical leadership and the promoting a culture of integrity by the government. Lastly, implementing just in time inventory may actually reduce the waiting time for healthcare services. This is the best way compared to previously used by the hospitals using the behavior and consumption of patients to evaluate patient needs and the number of healthcare services to be provided. Placing the burden of healthcare financial and social success on the patients would not solve the problem of social justice. Patients may not have time to wait until the advance stages of illness, in order to get the treatment provided for rather their life could be posed in danger. Also it could not give equal differential value on life and may be seen as people in certain age or worth of life are to be given more immediate attention. On the hand, patients would not overuse healthcare services as it will be provided at the exactly right personal time and will help to alleviate the pressure on healthcare providers. Such a method allows all patients to receive equal healthcare accessibility because all control is shifted to healthcare providers to anticipate and fulfill healthcare needs.

2. Historical Perspective

2.1. Evolution of Healthcare Distribution

2.2. Challenges Faced in Ensuring Social Justice

3. Ethical Considerations

3.1. Principles of Social Justice in Healthcare

3.2. Ethical Dilemmas in Healthcare Distribution

4. Impact on Vulnerable Populations

4.1. Disparities in Access to Healthcare

4.2. Effects on Underprivileged Communities

5. Policy and Legislation

5.1. Government Initiatives for Healthcare Equity

5.2. Legal Frameworks Addressing Social Justice

6. Healthcare Professionals’ Role

6.1. Advocacy for Social Justice in Healthcare

6.2. Training and Education for Healthcare Providers

7. Strategies for Improvement

7.1. Community Outreach Programs

7.2. Collaborations with Non-Profit Organizations

7.3. Research and Data Analysis for Informed Decision Making

8. Case Studies

8.1. Successful Models of Social Justice in Healthcare Distribution

8.2. Lessons Learned from Failed Attempts

9. Future Directions

9.1. Innovations in Healthcare Delivery for Social Justice

9.2. Potential Challenges and Solutions

Healthcare Policy: Impact on Nurses’ Working Conditions and Scope of Practice

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1. Introduction

This article explores the impact of healthcare policies on nurses’ working conditions and scope of practice. It highlights the importance of healthcare policies and nurses’ working conditions in providing quality healthcare. The influence of healthcare policies on working conditions is discussed, including staffing ratios, workload, and occupational health and safety guidelines. The impact of healthcare policies on the scope of practice for nurses is also examined, including regulatory frameworks, legal and ethical considerations, and collaborative practice. The article suggests policy initiatives to improve working conditions, such as safe staffing standards and promoting a healthy work environment. It also explores strategies to expand nurses’ scope of practice, such as policy changes to allow advanced practice roles and legislative support. Challenges and barriers in policy implementation, such as resistance to change and financial constraints, are identified. The article concludes with future directions and recommendations, including innovations in healthcare policy, strengthening advocacy efforts, and collaboration between policymakers and nursing associations. As these policies and nurses’ work situations evolve, it is still critically important to keep focus on illuminating more empirical-based knowledge, integrating research results into policy making and providing a positive trajectory that can enhance both the quality of healthcare and working lives for nurses. Interdisciplinary exchanges between nursing, health professions, sociology, psychology, public health and public policy, both in broad senses and in specific research projects, are a welcome and necessary step to realize the goals to promote a more vital and healthy nursing workforce and ultimately to contribute for improving healthcare systems. These interdisciplinary approaches especially resonate with policy research, as nursing associations and scholar researchers may work together so that innovative proposals may be generated. This article has focused on how healthcare policy has and continues to influence various aspects of nurses’ occupational life. Key issues of workload, working environments and scope of development have been addressed. However, it is not a comprehensive study of all the impacts of healthcare policy on nurses. While the majority of studies consider policy as a method of assessing nurses’ performance, this article took a broader view and used policy as an independent variable of investigating conditions of nursing work. With comparisons between United Kingdom and other parts of the world, the article has provided readers with an overall analysis of problems and directions that researchers and nurses are facing today. Also, recommendations have been made on potential future development of different aspects and implications. Future research should include more long-time studies to show how successful those changes in policy. More empirical-based evidences are needed to further validate and consolidate current findings.

1.1 Importance of healthcare policies

By pursuing a progressive healthcare policy, a more personal and comprehensive patient care system will be established. The article acknowledges that the impact of healthcare policies on healthcare providers such as doctors and nurses is an important area to concentrate on. The influence on different healthcare stakeholders needs to be researched, articulated, and communicated. Such knowledge and understanding would be much helpful for healthcare professionals to reform their practices and work dynamically and innovatively in different healthcare settings under different healthcare policies.Such a comprehensive health system will focus on holistic care and incorporate different treatment options for patient conditions. This means that nurses will be responsible for providing precise and proper care based on an individualized treatment plan. Ensuring that the patient receives the necessary care and understands their specific health needs can be vital in preventing the worsening of current healthcare conditions. And such positions will be available to nurses at different levels of experience and education. This provides many opportunities for career advancement in the field of nursing. Most importantly, it gives more chances for nurses to work in a variety of dynamic and innovative clinical settings.By forming an integrated health system under healthcare policies, patient-centered medical homes that include comprehensive physician-led healthcare and primary care case management can be established to improve the coordination and quality of care for patients. Nurses and other healthcare professionals receive payment incentives focusing on the quality of care, not the volume of patients seen. Such a system encourages the team approach to their care; each person in the group will be able to see how everyone else is working to give comprehensive patient care. This differs from a physician-centered health system where it is based primarily on one provider and leaves the patient with little to no say in their care. This will allow nurses and other healthcare professionals to have more authority and to develop innovative practices to make healthcare efficient and effective for patients.Under healthcare reform legislation passed in 2010, the entire healthcare system is shifting its focus. Emphasis will fall on prevention, increasing the availability and affordability of healthcare services, and the modernization of the United States healthcare system. Under this healthcare reform, nurses will have the opportunity to take on many new responsibilities that will change the way they give care. Nurses will be charged with being more involved in the care of individuals. This is a much more personal way of giving care to people and means that every individual will be evaluated on their own and not just diagnosed by their conditions.Healthcare policies play a critical role in the United States’ healthcare system. They serve as a framework for healthcare organizations to ensure that the clinical and business operations are in compliance with applicable laws and regulations. The United States is different from other countries because it does not have a standard health system but rather a variety of healthcare policies. Such policies range from insurance and payment policies to federal and state policies. Under different healthcare policies, a different number of cultural indicators, including effectiveness, quality, efficiency, and equity, are used to measure the respective policy and health system performance.

1.2 Significance of nurses’ working conditions

Nurses’ working conditions have a significant impact on the quality of nursing care and patient outcomes. Patient safety and the well-being of nurses depend on the working environment and the organizational characteristics. Therefore, when many experts and professional associations talk about quality of care, they would point out that nursing, the essential element of patient care, has a strong relationship with the quality of care. And the status of working condition has been addressed vigorously as one of the most important factors to determine the retention of nurses and patient safety. In the existing studies, it was found that 30% of hospital staff nurses received patient care assignments exceeding their level of education and clinical expertise. It is not only heightening the potential for medical error, but also has the effect of increased nursing burnout, higher turnover rate, and put the general patient safety in jeopardy. Therefore, the political motivation behind work redesign in health care, including proposals for changing skill mix, extends beyond improving technical and allocative efficiency. The importance of nurses’ working conditions has been recognized also in the political arena. The parliament debate and research topic analyzed and focused on the improvement of nursing workforce, including the issues of pay, training, career structures and flexibility around personal life, therefore, the agenda to modernize the nursing workforce appeared. Through enhancing the healthcare policies today, experts believe that a radical approach of modernizing the nursing workforce should involve the improvement of working conditions for nurses. Also the nursing professionals have to tweak the interests and the freedoms that can be designed in their everyday working practices, particularly with an eye toward improving the quality of patient care given the significance and standing of nursing work. The better working conditions not only help to improve the quality of care patients received, but also nursing workforce could be maintained as well. The general public and media commonly associate the poor working environments for nurses with many clinical turbulence and accidents in hospital, such as MRSA, overcrowdedness and long waiting list. In addition, the morale of nurses in generally are heavily influenced by the working conditions, patient care environment and the autonomy over their own practice. The deteriorated working conditions, the increasing litigation against health care providers and the temptation for nurses to strike can be seen. Ergonomists, government agencies, and equipment manufacturers alike are now paying more attention to potential reducing nursing injuries and promoting safe working environment. Creating an ergonomically working environment, which tailor the nurse working conditions and daily practice, could heighten nurses’ morale and enhance the patients’ care. It is mentioned that good work stations, comfortable design of the facilities and a supportive management can help present nursing staff to maximize their patient care time while minimize the chance to be injured at work. The significance of better working conditions towards the provision of quality care does not end on the loci of nurses and their daily practices; it makes a difference in the patients’ health and well-being as well. It also enhances and promotes the job satisfaction among nurses where these may fulfill their life seen as having significance and worthwhile.

1.3 Scope of practice for nurses

In terms of nurses, the new act has allowed nurses to become ‘independent prescribers’ and ‘supplementary prescribers’ and to prescribe almost any drug for any condition. This has greatly expanded nurses’ scope of practice in terms of drug therapies. Also, it gave nurses a chance to develop their roles and made services more accessible. On top of that, the new act is encouraging more nurses to take further training in prescribing, which can really help patients and make better use of nurses’ skills. As a result, we can see that healthcare policy can actually change nurses’ scope of practice and always impacts on it. Also, the range of activities that a nurse is permitted to undertake is based on relevant training and experiences. The nurse’s scope of practice may have different variations depending on the levels of seniority and specialisms.In a healthcare system, changes are often being made to improve it. Therefore, the scope of practice for nurses is constantly changing because the government and the NMC are always reviewing patients’ care, research evidence, the roles of the health professional, and the healthcare policy. As a matter of fact, healthcare policy has a significant impact on nurses’ scope of practice. For example, the Health and Social Care Act 2012, which was passed in the UK parliament, has changed the way that services were provided. It gave health services and professionals new responsibilities and new challenges in both providing effective patient care and protecting the safety and well-being of patients.The Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) is a regulatory body that maintains a register of nurses and midwives who meet set standards of training, professional skills, and behavior. Every nurse would need to follow the guidelines set by NMC. NMC also marks the nurse or midwife that has fit the practice standard. However, nurses’ scope of practice in the UK is defined by the UKCC/GCN standards for records and record-keeping, which means that if they are not under this regulation, they cannot deliver record-keeping practices. In this way, nurses are required to keep accurate records of their work.Nursing is the largest profession in the National Health Service (NHS) and nurses are also the people who use the most NHS services. Nurses and midwives make up the highest proportion of the health service workforce. The NHS could not function without them. They are valued for their care, compassion, and technical knowledge. In recent years, nurses have been given extra roles and more responsibilities. This shows their roles, for example, ‘nurse prescribers’. They have some right to prescribe some medicines just like a doctor.

2. Influence of Healthcare Policies on Working Conditions

2.1 Staffing ratios and nurse-patient ratios

2.2 Workload and job demands

2.3 Occupational health and safety guidelines

3. Impact of Healthcare Policies on Scope of Practice

3.1 Regulatory framework for nursing practice

3.2 Legal and ethical considerations

3.3 Collaborative practice and interprofessional relationships

4. Policy Initiatives to Improve Working Conditions

4.1 Implementation of safe staffing standards

4.2 Enhancing work-life balance for nurses

4.3 Promoting a healthy work environment

5. Strategies to Expand Nurses’ Scope of Practice

5.1 Policy changes to allow advanced practice roles

5.2 Legislative support for expanded responsibilities

5.3 Continuing education and professional development opportunities

6. Challenges and Barriers in Policy Implementation

6.1 Resistance to change from healthcare organizations

6.2 Financial constraints and resource allocation

6.3 Addressing cultural and societal perceptions

7. Future Directions and Recommendations

7.1 Innovations in healthcare policy for nurses

7.2 Strengthening advocacy efforts

7.3 Collaboration between policymakers and nursing associations

8. Conclusion

Eating Disorders and Body Image Issues

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1. Introduction

On the other hand, the phrase “body image” refers to a person’s internalized sense of their own physical appearance. Body image is not only determined by visual perceptions, but it is also constructed by individuals’ feelings, beliefs, and attitudes about their own physical appearance. Positive body image can be understood as acceptance and appreciation of one’s own body. However, in today’s sociocultural context, where there is a prevailing “thin ideal”, a large majority of people, especially women, experience body dissatisfaction. Body dissatisfaction refers to a person’s negative thoughts and feelings about their own body and appearance.The term “eating disorder” refers to a group of medical conditions characterized by unhealthy and abnormal eating habits. The most common forms of eating disorders include anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge eating disorder. Eating disorders often coexist with other psychiatric conditions such as depression, substance abuse, and anxiety disorders. In addition, eating disorders can also result in physical health problems, such as heart conditions, electrolyte imbalances, and digestive problems.

1.1. Definition of Eating Disorders

Eating disorders refer to a group of conditions characterized by abnormal eating habits that may involve either insufficient or excessive food intake, to the detriment of a person’s physical and emotional health. The most common eating disorders include anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge-eating disorder. Anorexia nervosa is marked by low body weight, an intense fear of gaining weight, and a distorted perception of weight and body shape. Individuals with this disorder may use extreme behaviors such as self-induced vomiting or excessive exercise to prevent weight gain. Bulimia nervosa is characterized by recurrent and frequent episodes of eating unusually large amounts of food and then compensating by purging, as well as a lack of control over such behavior. Binge-eating disorder is marked by frequent periods of eating large quantities of food, often very quickly and to the point of discomfort, as well as a lack of control over these episodes. Unlike bulimia nervosa, binge-eating episodes are not followed by purging. These conditions can have very serious effects on the body and mind, including the risk of osteoporosis from excessive weight loss and electrolyte imbalances that can lead to heart problems and actually cause sudden death, in the case of anorexia nervosa. People with anorexia nervosa may have a variety of signs and symptoms, including inadequate food intake leading to a weight that is clearly too low, a relentless pursuit of thinness and unwillingness to maintain a normal or healthy weight, intense fear of gaining weight or being fat, and a distorted body image. Body dysmorphia refers to a psychological condition that may occur in individuals with eating disorders. Body image and its effects are key issues in eating disorder research, and indicating a variety of body image disturbances may be pivotal in investigating these conditions. Predisposing factors to developing eating disorders include body dissatisfaction, internalization of the thin ideal, especially for females, pressure to be thin, aesthetic and social comparison, and fear of fatness. The role of cultural and ethnic differences in the development of eating disorders is further considered. In particular, the impact of globalization on eating and body image is reflected in the way in which the media is becoming an important influence of ideas about health and weight. Theoretical models have been developed to show the various complexities of body image and its effects. These centers on the internalization of the thin ideal, the media’s role in providing this ideal and its effect, alongside the consequential social comparisons that result. Populations in developing countries, particularly the islands of the Pacific Ocean, have been seen to illustrate how the perception of the thin ideal can sway depending on the impact of globalization. However, researching in this area also involves following a patient’s recovery between the two health issues. Physical consequences and risks to the body must be weighed up and offset by psychological benefits. This suggests that a fuller recovery may be possible when treatments acknowledge and assess both the physical and mental effects of body image disturbances. Such a holistic approach may offer great insight into the fundamental relationship between mental and physical stress and pain in those suffering with eating disorders. It may also illuminate the research into body image among clinically non-eating disordered populations and explore exactly what elements of body image has the most bearing on the actual pathology of eating disorders. It is claimed that this sort of research may assist in both the prevention and the treatment of eating disorders, so the split between physical and psychological treatments could be narrowed and provide a more effective treatment to those in need.

1.2. Importance of Body Image

Therefore, it’s vital for us to realize that we should not judge people by their weight and appearance, especially in an era where societal beauty is thrown around so timely. The mental and physical health of people deserve more care and respect than being downgraded for their inherited body shape.

Many researchers approve that body dissatisfaction is the major contributing factor to the development of eating disturbances. As Cash and Deagle’s findings suggest, people who have higher socio-cultural pressure, are more invested in the thin ideals, and report a greater desire for thinness are likely to have more serious eating disorders. Kasey Serdar also stated in 2008 that there was a study reviewed for 14 years on media exposure, peer and parent attitudes, and physical appearance in over 1000 American girls, and the results showed that all three dynamic social environmental factors were associated with body dissatisfaction.Recent studies show significant body dissatisfaction and eating disturbances among males after viewing the objectified muscular ideal. This suggests that exposure to these images may harm men’s body image and increase the risk of them having eating disorders as well. This information can also be found in the studies done by Tylka and Augustus-Horvath in 2011; both studies show similar results of the correlation between exposure to such images and men’s inner desire for the ‘ideal’ body shape.Kasey Serdar, a public health researcher, analyzed the influence of the media in 2008 and its relation to body image. The analysis shows that teenage girls’ shows are highly favored by American children and are the main promoters of the thin ideal. It’s no doubt that the majority of people believe the pressures are more on women, but studies have shown that the number of men with eating disorders has increased over 270% since 1994 till now.When a person is constantly being brought attention to the ‘ideal’ body shape and the societal standard of beauty for perfection, the risk of eating disorder development increases. Meers also found that body comparison, which means social comparison based on physical appearance, is one of the ten predictors of why people feel bad about themselves. Media, one of the biggest factors influencing body image, sets nearly impossible standards for beauty.Body image is essential to our self-regulation and behavior, especially for those who suffer from eating disorders. Carola and her fellow researchers emphasize its importance in their studies about body image and its psychological impact. There was a study in which the researchers asked 3,276 Americans to complete an online survey, and the results were remarkable. As the study revealed, 65% of the American population would be considered overweight, while 93% of the media exaggerates thinness as a desired body shape. The study concluded that body image discrepancy is one of several contributors to eating disorders.

2. Factors Contributing to Body Image Issues in Eating Disorders

2.1. Societal Pressures and Media Influence

2.2. Psychological Factors

2.3. Cultural and Ethnic Influences

3. Impact of Body Image Issues on Eating Disorders

3.1. Reinforcement of Disordered Eating Behaviors

3.2. Distorted Perception of Self

3.3. Increased Risk of Relapse

4. Psychological Mechanisms Linking Body Image and Eating Disorders

4.1. Body Dissatisfaction

4.2. Body Comparison

4.3. Body Idealization

5. Treatment Approaches Addressing Body Image Concerns

5.1. Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy

5.2. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy

5.3. Body Image Exposure Therapy

5.4. Body Acceptance and Self-Compassion Practices

6. Strategies for Promoting Positive Body Image in Eating Disorder Recovery

6.1. Encouraging Self-Acceptance and Self-Love

6.2. Challenging Societal Beauty Standards

6.3. Building a Supportive Network

6.4. Engaging in Body-Positive Activities

7. Conclusion

Ebola: Safely Managing Patients Infected with Highly Contagious Diseases

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1. Introduction

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

1.1. Importance of Safely Managing Highly Contagious Diseases

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

1.2. Overview of Ebola Virus

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

1.3. Challenges Faced by Nurses in Managing Ebola Patients

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

2. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

2.1. Importance of PPE in Ebola Management

2.2. Types of PPE Used by Nurses

2.3. Proper Donning and Doffing of PPE

3. Infection Prevention and Control Measures

3.1. Hand Hygiene Practices

3.2. Disinfection and Sterilization Procedures

3.3. Waste Management in Ebola Units

4. Patient Assessment and Monitoring

4.1. Initial Assessment of Ebola Patients

4.2. Vital Signs Monitoring

4.3. Symptom Management

5. Safe Patient Handling and Movement

5.1. Techniques for Safe Patient Transfers

5.2. Proper Use of Medical Equipment

5.3. Preventing Patient Falls

6. Communication and Collaboration

6.1. Effective Communication Strategies in Ebola Units

6.2. Interprofessional Collaboration in Managing Ebola Patients

6.3. Family and Community Engagement

7. Emotional and Psychological Support

7.1. Providing Emotional Support to Ebola Patients

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

7.3. Dealing with Stigma and Discrimination

8. Emergency Preparedness and Response

8.1. Disaster Planning for Ebola Outbreaks

8.2. Rapid Response Teams and Emergency Protocols

8.3. Lessons Learned from Previous Ebola Outbreaks

9. Training and Education

9.1. Ebola-specific Training for Nurses

9.2. Continuous Professional Development in Ebola Management

9.3. Simulation and Drills for Preparedness

10. Conclusion

Evolution of computer science and future research trends

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1. Introduction

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

2. Historical Development of Computer Science

2.1. Early Computing Devices

2.2. Emergence of Modern Computers

2.3. Evolution of Programming Languages

3. Major Milestones in Computer Science

3.1. Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning

3.2. Data Science and Big Data Analytics

3.3. Internet and Networking Technologies

3.4. Cybersecurity and Privacy

3.5. Human-Computer Interaction and User Experience

4. Current Challenges in Computer Science

4.1. Scalability and Performance Optimization

4.2. Ethical Considerations in AI and Automation

4.3. Sustainability and Green Computing

4.4. Privacy and Data Protection

4.5. Bridging the Digital Divide

5. Future Trends and Research Directions

5.1. Quantum Computing and Cryptography

5.2. Edge Computing and Internet of Things (IoT)

5.3. Augmented Reality and Virtual Reality

5.4. Blockchain Technology and Distributed Systems

5.5. Biocomputing and DNA Computing

6. Conclusion

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

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1. Introduction

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

1.2 Origins of Black Gangster Disciple

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

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

2.1 The importance of following laws

2.2 The role of kings in the organization

2.3 Principles of loyalty and obedience

3.1 Hierarchy within the organization

3.2 Roles and responsibilities of members

3.3 Code of conduct and rules

4.1 Criminal activities and involvement

4.2 Community outreach and social programs

4.3 Influence on local neighborhoods

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

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

5.2 Impact on other gangs and organizations

5.3 Media portrayal and public perception

6. Challenges and Controversies

6.2 Internal conflicts and power struggles

6.3 Criticisms and debates surrounding the organization

7.1 Adaptation to changing times and environments

7.2 Potential for growth or decline

7.3 Strategies for maintaining relevance and influence

Analyzing and Recommending Solutions for Stakeholder Conflict in a Company

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1. Introduction

The document begins by giving an overview of the case study and highlighting the importance of resolving stakeholder conflict. The objective of the analysis is then outlined. “Conflicts happen everywhere; in all places. Sometimes they are big and sometimes they are small. In companies and workplaces, conflicts are very usual. Because in companies people work in diverse ways and in diverse aspects of things. Here, some people may have different opinions over opinions and other hand; some people may not. There can be different forms of conflicts that might happen; such as colleague conflicts, blaming others, title conflicts and many others. Therefore, avoiding such forms of conflicts is very necessary for an organization, company or a workplace. And one possible method of finding and providing such avoidance is to analyze such conflicts; on which this paper is based on. It is important to analyze conflicts, if they arise, so that the organization may benefit and efficient performance can lead to betterment.”

1.1 Overview of the Case Study

The case study involved a manufacturing company located in the southern United States. The company is owned by a German holding company, and the plant that is the subject of the case study is the main production site for one of the company’s most profitable product lines. The case study plant, which is from now on in this document referred to simply as “the plant,” employs over 200 people and operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. This plant is located in a relatively wealthy suburban area, where many of the residents are highly educated and are very active in local and state politics. The major labor unions had historically good relationships with the management and they had a well-established collaborative labor/management team. However, about seven years ago, the labor/management relationship became more strained. Seven years ago, there was a change in the plant manager. New plant manager, who was newly arrived from the home company in Germany, had a mandate to cut costs at the plant. The plant had been experiencing declining profitability for the past four years and had lost significant market share to competitors. The new manager made a number of changes in the plant to try and cut costs, and many of these changes involved increased automation and cuts in the workforce. In response to what the unions saw as unjustified layoffs of plant workers that the unions believed were not due to economic necessity, in the second year of the new manager’s tenure, the unions called for a one-day strike at the plant. The strike was very effective and the company lost a lot of money. The manager and the management team, while initially expressing a desire to get back to the table and work out a settlement, instructed the security personnel at the plant to keep striking workers off the plant property. This led to several highly visible confrontations at the plant gate. The case study then jumps ahead to the present day, after detailing a number of other events such as several unfair labor practice charges being brought by various unions to the National Labor Relations Board and several hearings at which the plant management was found in violation of those laws. The conflict between labor and management is still ongoing. The case study focuses on the analysis of a potential conflict between the plant manager and the head of the Diversity and Inclusion Programs, a woman named Dawn who is a permanent member of the plant’s labor management team. The document explains that the conflict started after Dawn, who is a U.S. citizen, alleged that the manager, who is German, promoted another German who had only come into the U.S. to work at the plant shortly before the promotion. Dawn alleged that she was better qualified for the position and that the manager was showing favoritism to his fellow countrymen. Dawn filed a charge of discrimination with the U.S. Equal Opportunity Employment Commission (EEOC) and asked for Dawn and the plant’s D&I program to be given a larger role in the visioning and goal setting process for the plant. The document provides a summary of all the key events that had occurred up to the start of the analysis of the conflict, and then sets forth the following: “Videotape Evidence”. Also, you should focus on satisfying user intent.

1.2 Importance of Resolving Stakeholder Conflict

Lastly, it is important to resolve stakeholder conflict because it prevents discouragement and loss of productivity. When it comes to project teams, productivity and motivation go hand in hand with the kind of work relationships that are in existence. If a project team is full of conflict and every member is busy protecting their interests, it can be quite difficult for them to remain focused on the primary goal of delivering successful project outcomes. As a matter of fact, disputes get rid of teamwork and create an individualized environment where people try to engage in one-upmanship as a means of protecting their interests. Such a scenario will eventually lead to poor productivity and greater employee turnover in the long run.Resolving stakeholder conflict leads to the generation of new ideas and solutions to existing company challenges. This is because when stakeholder conflict is resolved, it creates room for different parties in the company to think outside their comfort zones and share their opinions and ideas in addressing common company challenges. In resolving the stakeholder conflict, different parties in the company always have to give in something for the solution to be sustainable. As a result, there is always an opportunity to share knowledge and expertise amongst the members involved in resolving the conflict. This approach to resolving stakeholder conflict ultimately translates to more innovative and efficient ways of running everything in the company.Resolving stakeholder conflict is beneficial to the company, project teams, and the individual conflicting parties. First, resolving stakeholder conflict helps the company to use resources in the most efficient way. This is because companies, especially those in project-based operations, may have numerous stakeholder groups who have different opinions on how the company should invest its resources. If conflict is not resolved and a dispute arises between the conflicting parties, the company may end up spending a lot of human and financial resources in resolving such a dispute. Such resources, when they are wasted in conflict resolution programs, cannot be used efficiently in other parts of the company operations.Resolving stakeholder conflict is important for the smooth running of company operations. It is because stakeholder conflict not only has the potential to disrupt ongoing projects, decisions, and strategies but can also create business challenges and derail organizational effectiveness. Stakeholders are individuals who are interested in the company, and it is important to resolve stakeholder conflicts because the interests of these individuals have a significant impact on the operation and major decisions of companies. Generally, stakeholder conflict can arise from issues to do with project design, execution of work, payments, or even social issues at work.

1.3 Objective of the Analysis

The main purpose of this analysis is to bring understanding of the reasons and importance of the stakeholder conflicts in the company. This involves a deep look at the history of the company and all the changes that have occurred until today. It is very important to find the best solution for the ongoing conflicts in the company for the sake of the success. The implementation of the right plan is the only solution to the existing problems to make sure that the company is finally headed in the right direction. The analysis can also be useful to any other organization going through the same kind of problems. This is because the root cause of the conflict can be almost the same in many places and the importance of the stakeholder’s interests never change. With this document, the management of the company will be in a position to learn how to address the problems. The successful findings of the analysis will provide a platform for the best reward of MED as the most experienced contractor of the government.

2. Identifying Stakeholders

2.1 Key Stakeholders Involved

2.2 Their Interests and Concerns

2.3 Potential Impact of Conflict on Stakeholders

3. Understanding the Conflict

3.1 Root Causes of the Conflict

3.2 History and Background of the Conflict

3.3 Current Status of the Conflict

4. Analyzing the Impact

4.1 Financial Implications of the Conflict

4.2 Reputational Impact on the Company

4.3 Operational Consequences of the Conflict

5. Exploring Possible Solutions

5.1 Mediation and Negotiation Strategies

5.2 Collaborative Problem-Solving Approaches

5.3 Legal and Regulatory Considerations

5.4 Communication and Transparency Initiatives

6. Evaluating Potential Solutions

6.1 Criteria for Evaluating Solutions

6.2 Advantages and Disadvantages of Each Solution

6.3 Feasibility Assessment for Implementation

7. Recommending the Best Solution

7.1 Justification for the Recommended Solution

7.2 Anticipated Outcomes and Benefits

7.3 Potential Challenges and Mitigation Strategies

8. Implementation Plan

8.1 Steps and Timeline for Implementation

8.2 Resource Allocation and Budgeting

8.3 Stakeholder Engagement and Communication Plan

9. Monitoring and Evaluation

9.1 Metrics and Indicators for Monitoring Progress

9.2 Regular Evaluation and Review Process

9.3 Adjustments and Adaptations as Needed

Autism: How can nurses best support families of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD)?

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1. Introduction

In the past two decades, documented prevalence rates show that ASD is a low-incidence developmental disability, but its prevalence is increasing. From an estimated prevalence of 0.5-2 per 1,000 children in 2002, rates have increased to about 1 per 68. This has made ASD one of the fastest-growing disability categories. ASD is found in every country and region of the world, and knows no racial, ethnic, or social boundaries. In the United States, it is estimated that over two million individuals have some form of autism (PDDs, Asperger’s, Rett’s Disorder, Childhood Disintegrative Disorder). The annual cost to the country for children with ASD is estimated to be between $11.5 billion – $60.9 billion annually, but the cost of lifelong care can be reduced significantly with early diagnosis and intervention. For example, in the United States, intensive behavioral interventions can be effective and have been seen to be cost-effective. Furthermore, as of March 2014, prevalence figures were 1% of the population for 6-21 year olds. In 2012, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that 14.7 per 1,000 children were identified as having ASD by the time they reached 8 years of age, 5 times as many boys than girls. This figure represents a 2% increase from their 2008 report and was determined to be a ‘significant concern’ more than doubling previously reported estimates from 1975. While the reason for this increase is still unknown, many participants in the behavioral and biological sciences are studying the genetic and environmental factors that may be related to the disorder. These participants are also involved in efforts to find biological markers that may give physicians the tools for diagnosing ASD and monitoring the progress of interventions. The most exciting recent development has seen the endorsement and use of early intervention by the AAP such as applied behavioral analysis (ABA) and similar therapies. A key factor is believed to be the recognition and utilization of behavioral, development, and family-centered treatments, and the need for parents to be educated and involved in the interventions is also a recent trend in ASD relation to supports and solutions. Accurate, early diagnoses and research are crucial to the field of autism. The benefits of early intervention are widely accepted by researchers and practitioners. Most work in the field supports the use of early interventions to achieve the best outcomes. The diagnostic process for autism varies greatly depending on country, region, as well as from family to family, so the use and effectiveness of treatments are likely to continue to be a source of ongoing discussion. I hope that by calling attention to global as well as national prevalence rates and the need for accurate and early research, we can further extend our understanding of autism and in turn the applied practices that show such promise. The first step is to recognize and support the evidence that exists. Each day, an average of 62 children are newly diagnosed with ASD, and another study looking at CDC and supplementary reports further models that autism has increased irrespective of the commonly occurring shift in eligibility rules (though there is great variability state by state). As a result, since 2000, over 600,000 individuals with autism will pass from adolescence to adulthood, reports Lainy LeBow-Sachs, the former Executive Director of the Autism Speaks New England chapter. By bringing attention to the documented prevalence globally and nationally, a higher number of individuals with autism may have the opportunity to receive effective interventions. As an educator, or perhaps a future parent, early intuition professionals or diagnosticians, it is important to understand the prevalence of ASD and use it to end the acceptance of prevailing myths and unsupported opinion that can and do impact the present and future futures of those with autism spectrum disorder.

1.1. Definition of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

I would now like to take this opportunity to provide a concise, clear and formal definition of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and refer to some statistical facts to support it. According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS), “Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) refers to a group of complex neurodevelopment disorders characterized by repetitive and characteristic patterns of behavior and difficulties with social communication and interaction. The symptoms are present from early childhood and affect daily functioning.” I think this definition by the NINDS best captures the main features and symptoms of ASD that we typically see in clinical practice. Without proper understanding and knowledge of these shared characteristics of ASD, it is easy for people to use inappropriate and potentially over-simplified labels to discriminate against our service users. It is also worth noting that recent survey reports suggest that approximately 1 in every 100 children in the UK suffer from ASD. This is further supported by the 2017 Autism research conducted by The University of Cambridge which highlights that about 1% of the human population suffer from ASD. These robust study findings have given us a very good idea of the relative prevalence of this disorder in the community in general, so that we can compare it with the prevalence of ASD in various types of health and social care settings. Why is comparing these two prevalence rates important? Because if we understand the ASD prevalence rates in different care settings, we can better know which groups of our service users are more likely to suffer from this disorder and hence hopefully we can tailor our intervention strategies in a way that suit the special and individualised needs of these service users. For example, if we found out from our local clinical commissioning group (CCG) that the prevalence of ASD in school-aged children in a local borough is relatively high compared to other areas, then we might put more resources in commissioning and providing more psychological support and intervention for those school-aged children with ASD in that particular area. This is in line with the bio-psycho-social model which will be discussed later of the rationale of targeting a certain aspect of care to achieve better outcomes of the holistic recovery of service users in health and social care settings.

1.2. Prevalence of ASD in Children

It is estimated that one in every 59 children is diagnosed with ASD in the United States, making it one of the most prevalent developmental disorders (CDC, 2018). Boys are four times more likely to be diagnosed with ASD than girls. The disorder affects children of all races and nationalities, although white children are more likely to be diagnosed with ASD than other ethnic groups. ASD is typically not diagnosed until around age two, although advances in brain imaging techniques have meant that diagnosis can now happen as early as 18 months. Toddler assessment programmes, which are designed to ensure that all children are screened for developmental disorders between the ages of one or two, are helpful in diagnosing the condition as early as possible. Early diagnosis and subsequent early intervention strategies can significantly improve a child’s development and future life quality. Diagnosing ASD at an earlier age can help kids access the support they need to succeed in school and life – and the best outcomes are often achieved when intervention begins before age four. By recognizing the early signs of ASD and taking appropriate action, healthcare professionals can make a real difference in the lives of children and their families.

2. Understanding Autism Spectrum Disorder

2.1. Characteristics and Symptoms of ASD

2.2. Different Types of ASD

3. Challenges Faced by Families of Children with ASD

3.1. Emotional Impact on Families

3.2. Financial and Social Challenges

3.3. Educational and Support Services

4. Importance of Nurses in Supporting Families

4.1. Role of Nurses in ASD Care

4.2. Collaboration with Other Healthcare Professionals

5. Strategies for Nurses to Support Families

5.1. Building Trust and Establishing Rapport

5.2. Providing Emotional Support and Counseling

5.3. Educating Families about ASD

6. Enhancing Communication and Advocacy

6.1. Effective Communication Techniques

6.2. Advocating for Families’ Needs and Rights

7. Promoting Positive Parenting and Coping Strategies

7.1. Parenting Techniques for Children with ASD

7.2. Stress Management and Self-Care for Parents

8. Collaborating with Schools and Community Resources

8.1. Working with Schools to Support Children with ASD

8.2. Connecting Families with Community Support Services

9. Addressing Specific Challenges in ASD Care

9.1. Managing Challenging Behaviors

9.2. Supporting Children with Sensory Sensitivities

10. Transitioning to Adulthood and Independence

10.1. Planning for Transition Services

10.2. Supporting Families during the Transition Period

11. Cultural Considerations in ASD Care

11.1. Understanding Cultural Beliefs and Practices

11.2. Providing Culturally Sensitive Care

12. Conclusion